Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro Launched: The world of truly wireless earbuds (TWS) just took a giant leap forward! Xiaomi has shattered the limitations of Bluetooth audio with the launch of Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro—the first-ever earbuds to support Wi-Fi audio streaming. Announced at MWC 2025, these premium earbuds bring a revolutionary upgrade in sound quality, connectivity, and AI-powered features.
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Breaking Barriers: Wi-Fi Audio for Lossless Sound
For years, Bluetooth has been the go-to technology for wireless audio, but it has always struggled with bandwidth limitations, audio compression, and latency issues. Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro changes the game with Qualcomm’s S7 Pro chip and XPAN (Expanded Personal Area Network) technology, allowing users to stream audio over Wi-Fi at an impressive 4.2 Mbps bandwidth. The result? 96KHz/24-bit lossless audio—a level of clarity and depth previously reserved for wired headphones.
How Does Wi-Fi Audio Work?
The earbuds connect to a supported Snapdragon-powered device, which securely shares Wi-Fi credentials. Once connected, audio transmission happens seamlessly over Wi-Fi instead of Bluetooth, ensuring zero audio degradation within the Wi-Fi range.
This is a game-changer for audiophiles and professionals who demand high-fidelity sound without being tethered to wires. Since Bluetooth is inherently limited to lower bitrates and suffers from compression losses, Wi-Fi audio opens up new possibilities for studio-grade streaming. This means music lovers can enjoy rich, immersive soundscapes with unprecedented clarity, whether they’re listening to high-definition FLAC files, streaming ultra-HD music from their favorite platforms, or even enjoying lossless audio in gaming and movies.
Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro: Key Features & Specifications
1. Dual Connectivity (Bluetooth + Wi-Fi)
- Bluetooth variant ($199) & Wi-Fi variant ($219)
- Supports aptX Lossless codec for superior audio quality
- Auto-switching between Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for uninterrupted listening
Unlike traditional TWS earbuds that rely solely on Bluetooth, the Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro feature an advanced connectivity system that automatically switches between Wi-Fi and Bluetooth depending on the scenario. If you’re within a Wi-Fi range, the buds will prioritize Wi-Fi for lossless streaming. If you step outside, they will seamlessly switch back to Bluetooth, ensuring uninterrupted music and calls. This level of connectivity flexibility makes these buds a powerhouse for anyone constantly on the move.
2. Studio-Grade Sound Performance
- Triple-driver setup: 11mm dynamic driver, tweeter, and planar driver
- Tuned by Harman for a rich and immersive sound profile
- Hi-Res Audio Certified for a premium listening experience
The triple-driver configuration is a major selling point of the Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro. With an 11mm dynamic driver handling bass, a tweeter refining treble, and a planar driver enhancing mids, these earbuds deliver an audio experience that rivals high-end wired headphones. Whether you’re a bass lover, a fan of crisp highs, or someone who enjoys balanced mids, these buds provide a perfectly tuned sound signature.
Xiaomi has collaborated with Harman, a legendary name in the audio industry, to refine the sound profile of the Buds 5 Pro. The result is crystal-clear vocals, deep and punchy bass, and an immersive soundstage that brings music to life.
3. Industry-Leading Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Blocks up to 55dB of noise across 5kHz frequency range
- Delivers an ultra-low latency of 15ms even with ANC enabled
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) has become a must-have feature in premium earbuds, and Xiaomi has ensured that the Buds 5 Pro deliver one of the best ANC experiences in the market. The ability to block up to 55dB of external noise means you can immerse yourself in music, podcasts, or calls even in noisy environments like flights, crowded streets, or office spaces.
The ultra-low latency of just 15ms ensures that whether you’re watching a movie, gaming, or taking a call, there is no perceptible delay in audio transmission. This is particularly beneficial for mobile gamers who rely on precise audio cues in fast-paced games.
4. Smart AI-Powered Features
- Live Call Transcription & Translation in multiple languages
- AI-based call recording for crystal-clear voice clarity
- Gesture controls for seamless operation
Xiaomi is bringing AI into the audio space with smart features that elevate the user experience. The Call Transcription & Translation feature is particularly useful for professionals and travelers who frequently interact with people speaking different languages. The AI-powered call recording ensures that you never miss important details from conversations, whether in meetings or personal calls.
Gesture controls add another layer of convenience, allowing users to play, pause, adjust volume, or answer calls with simple swipes and taps.
5. Impressive Battery Life & Premium Build
- 10 hours of playback on a single charge (40 hours with the case)
- Available in Titanium Gold and Snow Mountain White
Battery life is another strong suit of the Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro. With 10 hours of continuous playback and a total of 40 hours with the charging case, these earbuds outlast many competitors in the market. The case itself supports fast charging, giving users hours of playtime with just a few minutes of charge.
The Titanium Gold and Snow Mountain White color variants give the earbuds a premium aesthetic, making them as stylish as they are functional.
Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro vs. Competition
With all these cutting-edge features, how do Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro stack up against competitors like Apple AirPods Pro 2, Sony WF-1000XM5, and Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro?
| Feature | Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro | AirPods Pro 2 | Sony WF-1000XM5 | Galaxy Buds2 Pro |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | Bluetooth & Wi-Fi | Bluetooth only | Bluetooth only | Bluetooth only |
| Audio Quality | 96KHz/24-bit lossless | AAC, SBC | LDAC support | 24-bit audio |
| Noise Cancellation | 55dB ANC | 48dB ANC | 50dB ANC | 45dB ANC |
| Battery Life | 10 hours (buds), 40 hours (case) | 6 hours (buds), 30 hours (case) | 8 hours (buds), 36 hours (case) | 5 hours (buds), 25 hours (case) |
| Price | $199 (BT) / $219 (Wi-Fi) | $249 | $299 | $229 |
From this comparison, it’s clear that the Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro deliver top-tier performance at a much lower price point, making them a strong contender in the premium TWS market.
Final Thoughts: A New Era of Wireless Audio?
With Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro, Wi-Fi audio is no longer a concept but a reality. By breaking Bluetooth’s bandwidth barrier, Xiaomi has set a new benchmark for audiophile-grade wireless earbuds. Whether you’re a music enthusiast or a casual listener, these earbuds promise unparalleled sound clarity, intelligent features, and cutting-edge ANC technology.
At $199 for the Bluetooth variant and $219 for the Wi-Fi model, Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro delivers top-tier sound at a competitive price. Will Wi-Fi audio become the future of TWS? With Xiaomi leading the charge, we’re one step closer to finding out!
