The Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro are the latest true wireless stereo (TWS) earbuds from Xiaomi, offering a suite of advanced features designed for an enhanced audio experience. These earbuds stand out by offering not only typical Bluetooth connectivity but also Wi-Fi connectivity on a specific version, pushing the boundaries of wireless audio transmission.
A key highlight of the Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro is their advanced connectivity options. While they support standard Bluetooth with the Snapdragon S7+ audio platform, reaching speeds up to 2.1Mbps and capable of handling 48kHz/24-bit lossless audio, a special Phantom Black version can utilize Wi-Fi when paired with the Xiaomi 15 Ultra. This Wi-Fi connection boosts the bitrate to 4.2Mbps, allowing for 96kHz/24-bit lossless audio.
The Wi-Fi connectivity on the Phantom Black variant enables Qualcomm’s XPAN (eXpanded Personal Area Network) technology. This technology can extend the range of the headphones throughout your home while maintaining low power consumption. Furthermore, XPAN supports high-bandwidth audio, low-latency, and immersive audio with head tracking. It’s important to note that this Wi-Fi functionality is exclusive to the Phantom Black color option, while the Titanium Gold and White versions only support Bluetooth.
For exceptional sound reproduction, the Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro are equipped with dual DACs (Digital-to-Analog Converters) and dual amps that power two drivers. They offer a wide frequency response ranging from 15Hz to 50kHz. The audio has been tuned with the expertise of Harman’s Golden Ears team to deliver more detail in the mid and high frequencies.
To provide an immersive and distraction-free listening experience, these earbuds boast an impressive 55dB of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) thanks to three microphones on each bud. They are also capable of canceling out high wind speeds (up to 15m/s). According to Xiaomi, the noise reduction power is double that of the Xiaomi Buds 4 Pro.
The Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro offer compelling battery life. On a single charge, they can provide up to 8 hours of continuous listening over Bluetooth. Interestingly, this increases to up to 10 hours when using the Wi-Fi connection. When combined with the charging case, the total listening time reaches 40 hours. The case supports both wired and wireless charging for added convenience.
Designed for everyday use, the Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro have an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance. They also support audio sharing, allowing two pairs of buds to connect to a single phone. The stems of the buds are both touch and pressure sensitive, enabling users to control volume by sliding their finger and perform customizable actions by squeezing them with two fingers.
The Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro are available in Titanium Gold, White, and Phantom Black (Wi-Fi). They are currently available from Xiaomi’s store in China, with the Bluetooth-only versions priced at CNY 1,300 ($180) and the Wi-Fi-enabled Phantom Black version costing CNY 1,500 ($205). These earbuds represent a significant step forward in TWS technology, particularly with the introduction of Wi-Fi connectivity for enhanced audio quality and range.
| Feature | Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro (Bluetooth) | Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro (Wi-Fi – Phantom Black) |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | Bluetooth | Bluetooth and Wi-Fi |
| Bluetooth Audio Rate | Up to 2.1Mbps (48kHz/24-bit lossless) | Up to 2.1Mbps (48kHz/24-bit lossless) |
| Wi-Fi Audio Rate | Not Applicable | Up to 4.2Mbps (96kHz/24-bit lossless) |
| XPAN Technology | No | Yes |
| Extended Range | Bluetooth Range | Extended (whole home) via XPAN |
| Color Options | Titanium Gold, White | Phantom Black |
| Price (China) | CNY 1,300 ($180) | CNY 1,500 ($205) |
| Bluetooth Battery Life | Up to 8 hours | Up to 8 hours |
| Wi-Fi Battery Life | Not Applicable | Up to 10 hours |
| Head Tracking | Supported | Supported via XPAN |
- The primary difference lies in the connectivity options, with the Phantom Black version offering both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
- The Wi-Fi connection enables a higher audio bitrate for potentially better audio quality (96kHz/24-bit lossless compared to 48kHz/24-bit lossless over Bluetooth).
- The Wi-Fi version benefits from Qualcomm’s XPAN technology, extending the wireless range.
- The color options are distinct between the two versions.
- The Wi-Fi enabled version is priced higher than the Bluetooth-only versions.
- The battery life differs depending on the connection type used on the Phantom Black version.
- Head tracking is supported on both but is specifically highlighted as a feature enabled by XPAN on the Wi-Fi version.