Buds Air 5 RMA2301 Review: 38-Hour Playback & 50dB ANC – Worth the Hype?
Introduction
The Buds Air 5 RMA2301, boasting 50dB of active noise cancellation and a claimed 38 hours of playback, promised a premium wireless earbud experience. I’ve spent the last few weeks putting them through their paces, from bustling commutes to quiet evenings at home, to determine if they live up to the hype. This in-depth review will cover everything from sound quality and noise cancellation to battery life and overall comfort.
Features
The Buds Air 5 come packed with features aimed at enhancing the listening experience. Key highlights include the advertised 50dB active noise cancellation, a 12.4mm mega driver promising dynamic bass, and a six-microphone system for crystal-clear calls, even in noisy environments. The IPX4 water resistance rating adds peace of mind during workouts or unexpected rain showers. Bluetooth connectivity proved seamless and reliable during my testing period.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Charging Type | Type-C |
| Battery Size | 460 mAh |
| Colour Name | Blue |
| Connection Type | True Wireless |
| Average Battery Life | Less than 8 hrs |
| What’s In The Box | 2 x Earbuds (left x1 and right x1), 1x Type-C charging cable, 3 x Silicone earbud tips (S/M/L) (M tips installed by default), 1 x Info card |
| Audio Headphone Type | In-Ear |
| Charging Case Type | Wireless |
| Earplug Type | Earbuds |
| Features | Active Noise Cancellation, Water Resistant, Bluetooth |
| Model Number | RMA2301 |
| Model Name | AIR 5 |
Performance
The sound quality is impressive, with a well-balanced profile that doesn’t overemphasize bass at the expense of clarity. The 50dB ANC performed admirably, effectively silencing the low-frequency hum of public transport and the chatter of a busy office. While not completely eliminating all noise, it significantly reduced distractions, making it ideal for focused work or relaxation. Call quality was also consistently good, with the six-microphone system effectively filtering out background noise. However, the claimed 38 hours of total playback time proved optimistic. I consistently achieved less than 8 hours of continuous playback on a single charge, even with ANC turned off. The charging case adds additional playtime, but not the full 38 hours as advertised.
Comfort was another area where the Buds Air 5 excelled. The earbuds fit snugly and securely in my ears, remaining comfortable even during extended listening sessions. I appreciated the inclusion of multiple ear tip sizes ensuring a proper fit for most users.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Excellent sound quality, Effective noise cancellation, Comfortable fit, Good call quality, Stylish design.
- Cons: Battery life falls short of advertised claims, ANC isn’t perfect at higher frequencies.
Final Verdict
The Buds Air 5 RMA2301 offer a compelling combination of features and performance. The sound quality, noise cancellation, and comfort are all top-notch. While the battery life doesn’t quite reach the advertised duration, it’s still acceptable for most users. Overall, the Buds Air 5 provide a very positive listening experience and are recommended for those seeking a well-rounded pair of true wireless earbuds with decent noise cancellation. The slight shortfall in battery life is outweighed by the excellent audio quality and comfort.
