Xiaomi has released a wide range of earbuds in its Redmi Buds 6 series, offering different designs, features, and price points. While the Redmi Buds 6 Pro is the premium option priced around $80, in this review we focus on the more affordable models under $50:
- Redmi Buds 6 Play
- Redmi Buds 6 Active
- Redmi Buds 6 Lite
- Redmi Buds 6S
If you’re confused about which pair suits you best, this detailed Redmi Buds 6 comparison will help you choose.
1. Price Comparison
Prices vary by region, but here’s the approximate cost at launch:
- Redmi Buds 6 Play – $13 (cheapest in the series)
- Redmi Buds 6 Lite – $26
- Redmi Buds 6S – $32 (China version only)
- Redmi Buds 6 Active – $31
- Redmi Buds 6 – $47 (most expensive under $50)
This makes the Redmi Buds 6 Play the most budget-friendly choice, while the Redmi Buds 6 offers the most advanced features.
2. Design & Comfort
- Redmi Buds 6 Play: Unique design without silicone ear tips. Very lightweight and compact.
- Redmi Buds 6 Active & 6S: Semi in-ear design without silicone tips. Suitable for users who prefer less isolation.
- Redmi Buds 6 & 6 Lite: Traditional in-ear design with silicone tips (multiple sizes included).
All earbuds feel comfortable, but if you dislike silicone ear tips, your choice should be 6 Active or 6S.
3. Build Quality & Water Resistance
- Redmi Buds 6 Play & Active – IPX4 rating (splash resistant, no dust protection).
- Redmi Buds 6 Lite & 6S – IP54 rating (better dust and water resistance).
If you plan to use your earbuds for workouts or outdoor activities, 6 Lite and 6S are more durable.
4. Charging Case & Accessories
- All models come with a matte plastic charging case.
- Only Redmi Buds 6 Lite & 6S include a USB Type-C cable.
- Cases for 6 Lite, 6S, and Active are compact, while the Redmi Buds 6 has the most premium-looking case with a deeper lid design.
5. Features in Xiaomi Earbuds App
All earbuds connect to the Xiaomi Earbuds App (Android & iOS), but features differ:
Redmi Buds 6 Play
- Battery level indicator for case & buds
- Touch control customization (play/pause, next/previous track, volume)
- Audio effects: Treble, Bass Boost, Vocal
- Low Latency Mode (best for gaming)
- Find My Earbuds option
Redmi Buds 6 Active
- Same features as Buds 6 Play
- ❌ No low latency mode (higher gaming lag)
Redmi Buds 6 Lite
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) up to 40dB
- Transparency mode for awareness
- Custom EQ option in app
- In-ear detection & dual connection
Redmi Buds 6S
- Semi in-ear design with ANC support
- No transparency mode
- Features Adaptive Sound – adjusts audio based on ear fit & environment
- In-ear detection & dual device connection
Redmi Buds 6
- ANC up to 49dB (strongest in the series)
- Transparency mode + Immersive Sound (360° spatial audio effect)
- In-ear detection & ear tip fit test
- Dual connection & firmware updates
👉 Key takeaway: The cheapest Redmi Buds 6 Play is the only model with gaming-focused Low Latency Mode, while the Redmi Buds 6 & 6 Lite deliver the most advanced noise cancellation and smart features.
6. Microphone & Call Quality
- Redmi Buds 6 Play – Single mic, average call quality.
- Redmi Buds 6 Active, Lite, 6S, and 6 – ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation) for clearer calls.
- Best mic performance: Redmi Buds 6 & 6S.
7. Sound Quality & Drivers
- Redmi Buds 6 Play – 10mm driver. Decent sound for the price.
- Redmi Buds 6 Active – 14.2mm dynamic driver. Balanced, powerful sound.
- Redmi Buds 6S – 14.2mm driver + adaptive sound for ear fit.
- Redmi Buds 6 Lite – 12.4mm driver + ANC. Solid performance with customizable EQ.
- Redmi Buds 6 – Dual drivers: 12.1mm titanium diaphragm + 5.5mm ceramic unit. Immersive 360° sound.
Best sound quality: Redmi Buds 6, thanks to dual drivers and immersive audio.
8. Noise Cancellation & Transparency
- Redmi Buds 6 Play & Active – No ANC.
- Redmi Buds 6 Lite – ANC up to 40dB + transparency mode.
- Redmi Buds 6S – ANC (level not specified), no transparency.
- Redmi Buds 6 – ANC up to 49dB + transparency + immersive audio.
If noise cancellation is important, choose Lite or Buds 6.
9. Battery Life
Battery life is similar across the series, with slight variations depending on ANC usage. All models provide 20–30 hours with the case and 5–7 hours per charge.
Final Verdict – Which Redmi Buds 6 Should You Buy?
- Best Budget Option: Redmi Buds 6 Play – great for casual use and gaming (low latency).
- Best Semi In-Ear: Redmi Buds 6S or 6 Active – comfortable fit without silicone tips.
- Best Value: Redmi Buds 6 Lite – ANC, transparency, and custom EQ under $30.
- Best Overall: Redmi Buds 6 – dual drivers, strong ANC, immersive sound.
The Redmi Buds 6 series proves Xiaomi offers something for everyone—from super affordable models to feature-packed premium options, all under $50.