NEW Redmi Buds 8 Lite For $20

Xiaomi’s Xiaomi Redmi lineup has a weird history with budget TWS earbuds. I compared ALL 5 versions of the Redmi Buds 6 in a review and the budget models had serious issues. Now Xiaomi has released the new wireless in-ear Redmi Buds 8 Lite — and on paper, everything looks different. ANC up to 42 dB, Bluetooth 5.4, IP54, and a 12.4 mm titanium diaphragm — for around $20. The question is: are these finally budget noise-cancelling earbuds that aren’t embarrassing to recommend?

ANC up to 42 dB — hybrid noise cancellation using two microphones
12.4 mm titanium driver — increased size, titanium diaphragm
Bluetooth 5.4 — dual connection to two devices
Up to 36 hours with the charging case — 8 hours on a single charge
Fast charging — 10 minutes = 2 hours of music
IP54 — dust and splash resistant
3 colors — black, white, blue
5 EQ presets + custom tuning via Xiaomi Earbuds

Noise Cancellation. Hybrid ANC up to 42 dB — the same as the Redmi Buds 8 Pro, which costs twice as much. Two microphones work with AI algorithms to suppress noise in urban environments. Plus, it has wind noise reduction up to 6 m/s — useful outdoors.

Sound. A 12.4 mm titanium driver — larger than the standard 10 mm and theoretically capable of delivering more confident bass. You get 5 EQ presets and custom tuning in the Xiaomi Earbuds app. Codecs are AAC and SBC, with no LDAC. For $20 — that’s about what I expected.

Battery Life. Up to 8 hours with ANC on a single charge (the manufacturer claims this, but realistically expect around 5-6). With the charging case, you get up to 36 hours. Fast charging: 10 minutes in the case gives you 2 hours of music. Charging is via USB-C.

So, what’s the verdict. The Redmi Buds 8 Lite are Xiaomi’s latest attempt to make mass-market ultra-budget TWS earbuds. You get ANC like the higher-end Pro model, Bluetooth 5.4, IP54, decent battery life, and a titanium driver — all for twenty bucks. They’re currently only available in China. Now we just need to hear how they sound in person — and see if they deserve a spot in our ranking.

After the experience with the 6th generation, am I very skeptical about new products? Write in the comments — what do you think about the new Redmi Buds 8 Lite. I’d be happy to chat about it.

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