Unchanged appearance of TWS rank and file
The second revision of AirDots received almost no external differences: the same lightweight body a la Mi Band made of solid plastic, LEDs for display, plastic case.
In fact, there are many differences. The main thing that catches your eye is that the case of the new AirDots 2 is angular, with sharp edges.
It is worth keeping in mind that the original headphones do not have a full logo engraving - the inscription is barely noticeable with the correct backlight. Otherwise, we have a fake.
The inscription on the reverse side can be dim or bright - it depends on the market for which the “ears” are intended, the month of issue and much more.
The only thing that definitely gives away a fake is if the letters protrude, as if they were welded on.
The solution with the display is no less surprising: the case itself did not receive any elements, so the headphones use bright dots.
When charging they glow red, and when connected for the first time they blink in the same color. System reminders notify the owner with a white light.
For charging, AirDots 2 received USB-C instead of microUSB of earlier modifications of the headphones. The corresponding cable is included.
This solution is perhaps the most important: now the smartphone and accessories can finally be charged with one wire.
Counterfeits: is there a chance of getting caught?
Completely worn out. Or it could be worse if you buy a fake
As a result, blue boxes are currently produced under the Xiaomi logo for the European market, and red boxes with the Redmi logo are produced for the Chinese market. Both can be obtained on AliExpress.
The differences between the Chinese version and the European version are only in the text on the box and the accompanying documentation: the European version even has Russian.
The combination of Redmi and blue box is currently not found in the original variants
Today, only the Mi variant is available for the European market, and Redmi for the Chinese market. Otherwise, it should lead to thoughts of a fake, which will be even worse.
The second generation and modification S received a serial number on the air duct, by which you can check the originality using the link indicated on the box.
They are available in the same colors as the first generation.
Good ergonomics without any drawbacks
Despite the rather cheap appearance, plastic and not the most pleasant tactile sensations, Redmi AirDots 2 fit surprisingly well in the ears.
Why not? These are one of the lightest headphones on the market.
It is enough to choose the right ear pads (which have little effect on sound quality, to the credit of the developers), and they will turn out to be one of the most successful in terms of fit.
AirDots 2 are almost not felt, even if you wear them for many hours in a row: the shape is comfortable, you don’t feel the bulk, and the ear pads fit everyone.
Constantly wearing the only earphone from the set as a headset does not cause discomfort.
Even if you change places during the day, leaving one or the other “ear” on charge.
However, as before, AirDots cannot be used in training - if you don’t choose the ear pads and the load is variable, they will simply fly out of your ears.
It’s a pity that the controls remained in the form of mechanical buttons - of course, this is more reliable and cheaper, and often saves you from accidental presses.
But it’s inconvenient, and the button doesn’t allow for serious protection from the outside. The maximum that is stated is against dust and splashes .
And you shouldn’t even count on this: all versions of AirDots are afraid of sweat, rain and are not protected from high humidity.
Xiaomi Mi Bluetooth Headset
A budget, completely wireless headset with a pleasant appearance.
The ranking of the best headphones from Xiaomi opens with the first wireless headset of the Chinese brand Xiaomi Mi Bluetooth Headset ($12). The headset looks pleasing to the eye, is equipped with a set of replaceable ear pads and is low in cost. Bluetooth version 4.1 is responsible for transmitting sound in the headset; Hands free and Headset profiles are supported, as well as A2DP for listening to music. The headset has an active noise reduction system (we already wrote about this system in the rating of the best headphones with an ANC system).
Main characteristics
- Device type: mono Bluetooth headset
- Type: Earbuds
- Weight: 6.5 g
- Bluetooth version: 4.1
- Support for work profiles: A2DP, Headset
- Range: 10 m
- Standby time: 180h
- Talk time: 5 hours
- Charging time: 2h
Equipment
- Mono earphone
- microUSB cable
- Three sizes of silicone ear pads
- Documentation
Video review
- Price quality. The headset has the best combination of price and functionality on the wireless headset market.
- Cool look.
- Active noise cancellation.
- Autonomy.
- Functional. Inability to control volume from headset.
- Voice commands and functions in Chinese.
- Convenience. No attachment to the ear.
Bluetooth 5.0: individual connection and stable connection
Another fundamental difference of the new revision is the use of a modern Bluetooth 5.0 communication module, separate for each earphone.
Thanks to this, everyone connects directly to the sound source, and anyone can be used as a mono headset. Either right or left.
An additional advantage is a noticeable reduction in latency and an increase in range: where conventional AirDots lost connection after just a couple of meters, the updated headphones consistently hold up to 10 meters .
Does not affect the connection and the presence of active Wi-Fi connections.
Well, the best part: if previously, prolonged viewing of films quickly revealed that audio and video were out of sync, then the second “dots” cope with this task one hundred percent.
Not yet for games, but it works stably and does not raise any questions.
The best Xiaomi wireless headphones
Xiaomi wireless headphone models are popular among both gamers and music lovers. They allow you to broadcast a signal via Bluetooth technology. Such models have a number of advantages. Here are just the main ones:
- Freedom of movement.
- Protection from negative environmental factors.
- Attractive appearance.
- Additional options.
- The smartphone can be located at a considerable distance.
It is important to know that Xiaomi Bluetooth headphones can be supplemented with a wire connecting two speakers, or made without it (TWS technology).
In terms of format, the products are presented as “in-channel” and classic “liners”. And here all that remains is to decide which wearing option will be convenient for a particular user.
8 Xiaomi Mi Sport Bluetooth Headset
The Mi Sport Bluetooth Headset model opens the rating.
This is an excellent solution for those who prefer to enjoy their favorite tracks during sports training. The wireless in-ear headphones come in black and white colors. The unique design of the ear hooks ensures a tight fit of the product during movement. A special coating will protect you from the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation. Five ear pads of different sizes and a microUSB cable are included in the package. The weight of the structure is only 17.8 g.
The dynamic type device is capable of operating smoothly over a wide temperature range. The IPX4 moisture protection system will prevent damage due to exposure to sweat or rain. A high-quality microphone does not distort speech. Wireless pairing technology - Bluetooth 4.1. Frequency range - from 20 to 20,000 Hz. Communication radius is 10 meters.
It will take an hour to fully charge, and the battery life will be about 7 hours - which suited the domestic consumer quite well. Many also noted a strong hold.
Pros:
- They don't slip off your ears.
- High quality microphone.
- Moisture protection.
- They are not afraid of temperature changes.
- Five ear pads included.
Minuses:
- Quiet sound.
- Long wires.
Xiaomi Mi Sport Bluetooth Headset
7 Xiaomi Haylou GT1 Plus
The seventh in the ranking of the best Xiaomi wireless headphones is Haylou GT1 Plus.
The in-channel design allows for pairing with modern gadgets via Bluetooth 5.0 technology. The “True Wireless” option is used here, which means that wires are completely excluded. Color - rich black. The kit includes a stylish storage case, 2 pairs of ear pads and a microUSB cable. Product weight: 7.8 g.
An impressive list of options will delight true music lovers. The system is complemented by a Qualcomm chipset that provides an excellent signal. Degree of protection against moisture - IPX5. AAC and aptX technologies allow you to hear every sound of your favorite tune. Frequency range 20 - 20,000 Hz. Sensitivity - 110 dB. A high-quality microphone is built into the body. At the same time, the reception radius is 10 m. In addition, there is a function to call a voice assistant.
An important aspect is the battery life of 5 hours (18 hours from the battery in the case).
Comfortable fit, good sound and quick pairing - these are the properties that most users highlighted.
Pros:
- Sensitivity 110 dB.
- Complete absence of wires.
- Quick pairing.
- High quality microphone.
- Moisture protection - IPX5.
Minuses:
- Inconvenient ear pads included in the kit.
- Poor performance at high frequencies.
Xiaomi Mi Sport Bluetooth Headset
6 Xiaomi Mi True Wireless Earbuds Basic 2
Sixth place is occupied by the Mi True Wireless Earbuds Basic 2 headphones. The wireless system provides the ability to operate autonomously for up to 12 hours from the battery in the case.
The product comes in an elegant black case. The weight of the “earbuds” is 8.2 g. The functionality is easily controlled using one key. For user convenience, you can use a voice assistant. It is noteworthy that the included case is capable of providing a couple of full charges. A nice addition is 3 pairs of interchangeable ear pads of different sizes.
The hallmark of the device is crystal clear sound, which is due to the use of a DSP noise reduction system and the thoughtful design of the headphones themselves. The range of reproduced frequencies ranges from 20 to 20,000 Hz, while the sensitivity is 115 dB. The range is 10 m. Stable and fast signal transmission is guaranteed by Bluetooth 5.0 technology.
Buyers note the high-quality sound without distortion, good bass and presentable appearance of the Mi True Wireless Earbuds Basic 2 model. But not everyone liked the built-in microphone.
Pros:
- High quality sound.
- Tangible bass.
- Up to 12 hours of battery life.
- Stable pairing.
- No extraneous noise.
Minuses:
- There is no battery charge indicator.
- May cause discomfort if worn for a long time.
Xiaomi Mi True Wireless Earbuds Basic 2
5 Xiaomi Haylou GT1 XR
The top five best wireless headphones are the Xiaomi Haylou GT1 XR.
The model, which appeared on the market in 2021, has already earned a high consumer trust rating. Not surprising, because it provides support for AAC and aptX codecs. Technology helps you hear even the smallest details. Release form: classic in-ear dynamic headphones of black color, placed in a black case. Each element weighs 3.9 g. There is a microphone and functionality control via a voice assistant, as well as a touch button. Ear pads in sizes S, M and L are included in the basic set.
Frequencies here are perceived in the range from 20 to 20,000 Hz. Degree of protection against water - IPX5. The sensitivity of 110 dB is quite sufficient to enjoy rhythmic melodies with bass. The built-in microphone is complemented by a noise reduction system. The Bluetooth 5.0 interface features fast and stable pairing.
The headphones can operate autonomously for up to 5 hours, and when in a case, this time can increase to 36 hours. Undoubtedly, the Haylou GT1 XR model is suitable for those who want to enjoy their favorite tracks during sports training, and also receive calls remotely. This is what the majority of respondents think.
Pros:
- Capacious battery.
- Touch control.
- High-quality protection against moisture.
- Clear sound.
- Work together and each earphone separately.
Minuses:
- Not everyone is comfortable with ear pads.
- Not loud.
Xiaomi Haylou GT1 XR
4 Xiaomi Mi Collar Bluetooth Headset
Fourth place belongs to the Xiaomi Mi Collar Bluetooth Headset model, which entered the market in 2021.
The original design is the first thing that catches your eye. The shape of the arch perfectly follows the contour of the neck, providing a secure fit during active sports. The product is equipped with a volume control key. The weight of the structure is 40 g.
The standard kit includes 3 pairs of ear pads of different sizes and a USB charging cable. By the way, the battery life is up to 10 hours. At the same time, a full charge takes 2 hours. The signal is picked up at a distance of up to 10 meters.
The interface for pairing is Bluetooth 4.0. AptX and AAC codecs are supported. The device is capable of reproducing frequencies from 20 to 20,000 Hz. These characteristics “appealed to the taste” of true music lovers. A high-quality microphone is a pleasant addition to the list of advantages. The special shape of the “necklace” does not restrict movement, according to the athletes.
Pros:
- Stylish execution.
- Decent sound quality.
- Have a microphone.
- Replaceable nozzles.
- Quickly finds a smartphone.
Minuses:
- Low location of the control panel.
- Difficult to switch tracks.
Xiaomi Mi Collar Bluetooth Headset
3 Xiaomi Redmi AirDots 2
The line above is Xiaomi Redmi AirDots 2. The clear and pleasant sound, even at low frequencies, in the model is due to a high-quality 7.2 mm speaker and a Realtek audio processor.
Extraneous noise is eliminated by advanced technology called Environment Noise Reduction. The in-ear headphones are supplied in an elegant black case that matches the color of the product. The integrated microphone allows you to communicate via voice communication. If necessary, you can resort to the help of the XiaoAI assistant. Independent operation of the “inserts” is provided. In addition to the branded case, the user receives several ear pads.
When voicing the technical characteristics, it is worth focusing on the main aspects. Interface - Bluetooth 5.0, degree of moisture protection - IPX4, frequency range from 20 to 20000 Hz, sensitivity - 104 dB. The battery life is 4 hours, but when in a case it can increase 3 times.
Perhaps professional sound calibration and the latest interface are the main advantages of the budget model. This is the opinion of those who had the opportunity to test the device.
Pros:
- High-quality sound calibration.
- Interface - Bluetooth 5.0.
- Moisture protection IPX4.
- Independent operation of each headphone.
- “Environment Noise Reduction” noise reduction technology.
Minuses:
- Discharges quickly.
- No proprietary charger.
Xiaomi Redmi AirDots 2
2 Xiaomi AirDots Pro 2S
Second place goes to the AirDots Pro 2S model - a headset with excellent sound quality that can be charged in several ways - USB Type-C and remote.
TWS technology means there are no wires at all. The white headphones are placed in a beautiful case, which can serve as a charger and transport case. The classic shape of the earbuds fits comfortably in the ear. There is a built-in microphone. We are pleased with the presence of intelligent control through touch zones and LED indication. At the same time, the total weight of the product is only 9 g.
Impeccable sound is guaranteed by the Hi-Res LDHC audio codec. The Bluetooth 5.0 interface is quite fast. At the same time, the signal is transmitted without distortion. This is the merit of LHDC technology. The frequency range is standard - from 20 to 20,000 Hz. Water protection degree - IPX4. Two codecs are supported here - AAC and SBC. The ENC system is responsible for noise reduction.
The headphones can operate autonomously for up to 5 hours, but it is possible to recharge three times from the case.
Fans of futuristic designs will appreciate the AirDots Pro 2S model. Among the advantages, respondents name a high-quality interface for data transfer, “weightlessness” of the design and sound, better than that of analogues.
Pros:
- Two charging methods.
- Lightweight and comfortable to wear.
- Long battery life.
- Great sound.
- Touch control.
Minuses:
- Plastic is easy to scratch.
- Weak noise reduction.
Xiaomi AirDots Pro 2S
1 Xiaomi Mi True Wireless Earbuds Basic 2S
The leader in the rating is the Xiaomi Mi True Wireless Earbuds Basic 2S headphones.
Perhaps they combine all the advantages of similar products - lightness, capacious battery, excellent sound and a wide range of options. The miniature black case holds two vacuum headphones. At the same time, each of the accessories weighs only 4.1 g. TWS technology is used here, eliminating wires. Simple control with one button. Three pairs of soft ear pads of different sizes will allow you to choose the best option for ears of different shapes.
After removal from the case, it automatically pairs with a smartphone via Bluetooth 5.0. External noise is eliminated by the DSP option, and proper sound settings will allow you to thoroughly enjoy your favorite compositions. There is also a game mode and a voice assistant. Reproducible frequency from 20 to 20,000 Hz. At the same time, the sensitivity of the speaker is 90 dB.
The battery charge level can be checked in real time. Provided they are in the case, the headphones can work for up to 12 hours.
Pros:
- Great sound.
- Good build quality.
- Bluetooth 5.0.
- Lightweight and comfortable.
- Additional options.
Minuses:
- Weak microphone.
Xiaomi Mi True Wireless Earbuds Basic 2S
They work longer. But not everyone will notice
Thanks to the new module, autonomy has significantly increased. Each earbud lasts from 3 to 5 hours, depending on the volume.
And finally, they are discharged evenly, because the 20-30% faster discharge of the leading earphone has bothered many owners of Xiaomi headphones.
The case is enough for 3 full charges, which allows us to talk about the honesty of the manufacturer - in the technical specifications Xiaomi indicates the same 20 hours.
Working together “burns” the charge evenly.
By the way, completely discharged “ears” charge without incident, immediately picking up the case even with dirty charging contacts.
No specialized charging is needed: any power supply with a USB-C cable is suitable, since they consume around 1A at 5V, and low-current device mode is not required.
Xiaomi Mi Sport Bluetooth Headset
Good Xiaomi Bluetooth headphones for sports.
The top five best Xiaomi headphones are wireless sports headphones with support for multiple profiles - Xiaomi Mi Sport Bluetooth Headset ($25). Vacuum headphones are lightweight, comfortable to fit on the ear and have a large set of replaceable ear pads. The output sound quality is good, and the battery life is 5-6 hours. All this, combined with the word Sport in the name, suggests that these headphones are perfect for sports.
They sound good. Now also for music
The first generation of fully wireless Xiaomi headphones did not differ in playback quality: overwhelmed lows, dull mids, dull lows.
AirDots 2 received new 8 mm drivers with neodymium magnets. Budget but high quality.
You shouldn’t expect anything serious from them, but now the quality of reproduction of average, and therefore human voices, is quite decent.
The interlocutors stopped complaining. Microphones cope with street noise, cutting out unnecessary noise.
There is no active noise reduction, but phone calls are now flawless when using one or two headphones.
Podcasts, videos, TV series - in these use cases, AirDots 2 work no worse than more expensive models. If you don’t compare with “ears” of 7-10 thousand, of course.
The situation with music is a little worse. The sound is optimized for youth, electronic music and hip-hop.
The bass is not rich, but quite clear and deep. Average ones are enough. It’s pointless to talk about their melodicism, but they are no worse than a successful average headset for a smartphone.
When using AAC instead of SBC, the headphones are completely at the level of mid-price models - there is a “top”, there is a good balance of frequencies.
Nothing surprising. But I don’t want to spit anymore.
Xiaomi Mi Collar Bluetooth Headset
Stylish in-ear wireless headphones with microphone.
Fourth place in the ranking of the best headphones from Xiaomi deservedly goes to the Mi Collar Bluetooth Headset ($59) - stylish in-ear wireless headphones with a microphone and support for high-quality audio transmission with the aptX codec.
The basis of their design is a flexible and relatively lightweight neckband. The model is perfect for sports and running, but is not suitable for running, as the headband begins to move on the neck, and the headphones themselves fly out. The sound, so to speak, is very open, all frequency ranges are perfectly audible, but low ones, perhaps to a lesser extent.
Let's remember: what's good about Xiaomi AirDots?
Real photos, even at the start of use, were not encouraging
Through extensive testing, we found that the AirDots TWS earbuds could be a good choice as an everyday accessory.
Of course, if the buyer is willing to endure rough assembly, cheap plastic and not the most pleasant sound.
Mechanical keys click clearly and with good feedback. The controls themselves are logical, but there are no settings to be found. There is no app! True, there is a plus in this minimalism: everything that is there works with any Bluetooth sources.
Micro scratches and abrasions are the main companion of AirDots
The seating position is comfortable enough for adults and children. Even the appearance of MiBand is not so scary - it’s difficult to see your own ears.
Alas, despite the fact that AirDots are praised from every corner, they sound exactly like a thousand rubles: enhanced low frequencies crush the middle, the middle drowns out the high ones.
The bass itself is dry and stingy - although this balance is suitable for voice messages. But not for music.
Headphone lifespan is short
You shouldn’t count on a rich dynamic range or any scene either.
Microphones work well, transmitting voices even on the street. It’s not ideal, but a couple of years ago you couldn’t count on that.
However, among “TWS up to three thousand” the choice is small: only AirDots can be bought at every stall, and this is a clear plus.
The main problems of AirDots
AirDots cannot be washed
To paraphrase a well-known phrase, price determines properties. You shouldn’t expect serious achievements from a mass device “over a thousand” - it works and that’s fine.
However, even Xiaomi themselves are good at wired headphones. There is also a wireless version of hybrids, which sounds very good.
At the same time, AirDots manage to distort the caller’s voice beyond recognition - it sounds like it’s coming from a barrel, dull and callous.
They also manage to dry even flat popular tracks with unexpected ease. This is perhaps the most critical feature of AirDots in all variants.
There is also a disgusting connection to be noted: updated versions with independent connections appeared for a reason. When purchasing new ones, it is absolutely worth purchasing these.
The first AirDots work through the right earphone (that is, you cannot listen to the left one separately), and easily fall off the source even at short distances (especially when the battery capacity decreases).
A serious problem, because you can distinguish right from left only with the help of barely noticeable marks. Which after six months you can’t even notice.
