The Realme Buds Air 6 presents itself as an attractive option for those seeking budget-friendly ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) earphones. With the introduction of a new Royal Violet colorway, these truly wireless stereo (TWS) earphones offer a decent mix of features, including a lightweight design and a significant battery life. But do they deliver on their promises? Let’s delve into the details.
Design and Features: Lightweight and Portable, but Comfort Falls Short
Weighing just 46 grams, the Realme Buds Air 6 case is lightweight and easy to carry around, making it a practical choice for on-the-go users. The earphones themselves come with an IP55 rating for water and dust resistance, and are available in Flame Silver, Forest Green, and Royal Violet color options.
The traditional in-ear design with silicone ear tips ensures a snug fit, though comfort might be an issue during extended use. Despite the secure fit, prolonged wear can lead to discomfort, which detracts from the overall user experience. The charging case, though easy to carry, lacks an IP rating, which means it’s not as durable as the earphones.
App and Specifications: User-Friendly Interface with Customizable Features
The Realme Buds Air 6 pairs seamlessly with the Realme Link app, which provides a straightforward interface for managing various features. Users can switch between ANC modes, customize EQ settings, and control touch gestures with ease. The app also includes the MindFlow mode, offering a selection of mood sounds for relaxation and focus.
The Realme Buds Air 6 are equipped with six microphones and 12.4mm drivers. They support Bluetooth 5.3 and a number of audio codecs, including LDHC, SBC, and AAC. These earphones also feature 55ms low latency gaming mode, making them a viable option for gamers. However, the absence of dual device connectivity is a limitation, particularly for users who frequently switch between devices.
Performance and Battery Life: Adequate ANC with Solid Battery Backup
In terms of performance, the Realme Buds Air 6 offers a respectable ANC experience, though it does have its limitations. The earphones provide different levels of ANC, with a Smart mode that automatically adjusts based on environmental noise. While the ANC is effective in reducing most domestic noises, the highest level of noise cancellation can negatively impact sound quality, particularly in the mids and highs.
On the positive side, the battery life of the Realme Buds Air 6 is impressive, nearly matching the advertised 40 hours of playback time when ANC is turned off. With ANC enabled, the battery life decreases, but it remains sufficient for most users’ daily needs.
Sound Quality: Bass-Heavy with Some Compromises
The Realme Buds Air 6 delivers a bass-forward sound signature, which is enjoyable for genres like rock, pop, and EDM. However, the emphasis on bass can sometimes overshadow the mids and highs, leading to a slightly muddled sound experience. While the earphones perform well with energetic tracks, slower and more nuanced songs can reveal the limitations of the audio quality, especially when ANC is set to maximum.
For casual listeners, the sound quality is satisfactory, but audiophiles might find it lacking in detail and clarity.
Verdict: A Solid Choice with Some Trade-Offs
At Rs. 3,299, the Realme Buds Air 6 offers decent ANC capabilities, a user-friendly app experience, and commendable battery life, making it a good choice for those on a budget. However, the comfort issues during prolonged use and the compromises in sound quality might be deal-breakers for some.
If you prioritize comfort and a more balanced sound, the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro might be a better alternative at a similar price point. Alternatively, if your budget allows, the CMF Buds Pro 2 offers enhanced features, including dual drivers, superior ANC, and longer battery life, making them worth considering.