Key Takeaways
1. Huawei launched the global version of the FreeBuds Pro 5, competing with Galaxy Buds 4 Pro, but with some features exclusive to Huawei devices.
2. The earbuds feature a closed ear design, IP57 dust and water resistance, and come in multiple colors, including a unique vegan leather option.
3. The global version lacks the Kirin A3 chip and NearLink technology found in the Chinese model, resulting in lower audio streaming capabilities.
4. Battery life is up to 6 hours with ANC activated and 9 hours without; total playback with the case can reach up to 38 hours.
5. The FreeBuds Pro 5 are priced at £149.99 in the UK and €169.99 in Europe, with a limited-time discount available until April 4.
Huawei has unveiled the global version of its high-end earbuds, the FreeBuds Pro 5, after their first launch in China last November. These new earbuds enter the market as competitors to the recently released Galaxy Buds 4 Pro. However, just like Samsung’s offerings, some features are exclusive to Huawei devices. Additionally, the global variant lacks certain features or has altered versions compared to the Chinese model.
Design and Features
The FreeBuds Pro 5 sport a closed ear design with flat oval stems, which Huawei claims enhances interference resistance for each earbud and improves range by up to 38%. They come with an IP57 rating for dust and water resistance (the charging case has an IP54 rating). Buyers can choose from Sand, White, Grey, and a unique Blue option that includes a vegan leather case, unlike the soft finish of the other three colors.
Weighing in at 5.5 grams each, these earbuds are equipped with dual DSP (Digital Signal Processing) and dual DACs (Digital-Analog Converter), working together with dedicated bass and treble drivers for a rich listening experience. The FreeBuds Pro 5 also have dual drivers capable of producing bass as low as 10Hz and an ultra-thin micro planar diaphragm driver for treble up to 48kHz. Additionally, they feature Huawei Sound technology with four listening modes—balanced, voice, classical, and bass—that can be customized via the Huawei Audio Connect app.
Limitations of the Global Version
Regrettably, the global version of the FreeBuds Pro 5 is missing the Kirin A3 chip found in the Chinese model. It also lacks the proprietary NearLink technology, which surpasses Bluetooth in transmission speed, coverage, and signal strength. Due to the absence of these technologies, the global version can only stream audio at 2.3 Mbps, while the Chinese version supports 4.6Mbps for Hi-Res wireless audio.
Moreover, this version does not include AI features such as AI summary, real-time audio transcription, or the capability to function as a voice recorder.
Battery Life and Pricing
As expected from a premium earbud offering, the FreeBuds Pro 5 support spatial audio with head tracking. They also include dual-engine AI noise cancellation, which Huawei claims is 220% more effective than the noise cancellation found in the FreeBuds Pro 4 (which can be found on Amazon.de for €149). Other features include an awareness/transparency mode, conversation mode, and adaptive volume adjustments.
In terms of battery performance, the Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5 can last up to 6 hours (5 hours with L2HC/LDAC) of playback with ANC activated, and up to 9 hours (8 hours for L2HC/LDAC) without ANC. When using the charging case, total battery life is estimated at 25 hours (22 hours for L2HC/LDAC) and 38 hours (33 hours for L2HC/LDAC) respectively.
The Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5 come with Bluetooth 6.0, support Bluetooth Multipoint, and include four pairs of silicone ear tips. They are now available for pre-order in the UK priced at £149.99 and in the rest of Europe for €169.99, with a discount of £30/€30 off the MSRP until April 4.
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