Huawei FreeBuds Pro 4 review dual-driver earbuds with intelligent ANC and crystal-clear calls

Description

Initial Impressions of the FreeBuds Pro 4

Testing out the Huawei FreeBuds Pro 4 was an intriguing experience for me. I’ve used a fair share of earbuds over the years, and I can confidently say these pack a punch in more ways than one. From the sleek laser-engraved design to the impressive dual-driver audio system, it’s clear Huawei has put thought into both aesthetics and performance. If you’re someone like me who values intelligent ANC and compatibility across devices, these might already sound great. But let’s dive deeper into the details.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the FreeBuds Pro 4 is nothing short of elegant. The laser-engraved silver string finish gives it a unique look that stands out from the typical matte or glossy earbuds. I wasn’t just impressed by its appearance, though. The ceramic DECO elements make each earbud feel premium and smooth to the touch. While they look fragile due to the glossy finish, they felt sturdy and well-constructed in my hands.

The carrying case is compact, measuring just 0.79 inches in height, making it ridiculously easy to slip into a pocket or purse. It also weighs only 5 grams, so it’s incredibly lightweight. However, I did notice the plastic material of the case might attract scratches over time. That said, the black color masks minor scuffs fairly well.

Performance and Sound Quality

Let’s talk audio because that’s where these earbuds shine. The dual-driver system delivers a Hi-Res Wireless Audio experience that’s hard to beat. I tested these with a variety of music genres, from bass-heavy EDM to acoustic folk, and the clarity was consistent across the board. The 11mm dynamic drivers pump out sound that feels rich and immersive, with bass that’s punchy without being overwhelming.

One feature I particularly loved was the HWA Lossless audio certification, which ensures that even wireless sound maintains high fidelity. Whether I was streaming music or watching videos, the audio felt crisp and lag-free. The frequency range of 20 Hz – 40 kHz is also impressive, offering both deep lows and sparkling highs.

Key Benefits

• Dynamic ANC (Active Noise Cancellation): The earbuds intelligently adjust the noise cancellation levels based on your surroundings. On a noisy subway ride, I could barely hear the chatter around me.
• Crystal-clear calls: The AI call-noise-cancellation tech is no joke. Even during a windy walk with gusts up to 10 m/s, people on the other end heard me perfectly.
• Head motion controls: This might sound gimmicky, but it works surprisingly well. By simply nodding, I could answer calls without touching my phone or the earbuds.

Favorable Aspects

• Comfortable fit: The in-ear design didn’t cause any discomfort, even after hours of wear.
• Wide compatibility: Whether you’re on iOS or Android, these earbuds connect seamlessly.
• Battery life: The 22-hour battery life with the case is sufficient for a full day’s use.

Limitations

Despite its many strengths, there were a few quirks that stood out.

• Touch controls: While responsive most of the time, there were moments where accidental brushes triggered actions.
• Plastic build of the case: The lightweight plastic, though practical, doesn’t scream “premium.”
• Learning curve with head motion controls: It took me a while to get used to the nodding and shaking gestures, and they occasionally felt unresponsive.

Areas for Improvement

• A more robust material for the carrying case would enhance durability.
• The touch sensitivity could use some fine-tuning to prevent accidental commands.

Alternative Offerings

In a market flooded with high-quality earbuds, the Huawei FreeBuds Pro 4 faces tough competition. For instance, the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds are known for their industry-leading ANC, but they lack the unique head motion controls of Huawei’s offering. On the other hand, Apple’s AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) deliver seamless integration with iOS devices, though they don’t match the lossless audio certification provided here.

Compared to these competitors, the FreeBuds Pro 4 holds its own by offering a balanced mix of innovation and performance. However, if a premium build or brand reputation matters more to you, Sony or Apple might edge ahead.

Value Proposition

Considering the features packed into these earbuds, the value for money is solid. I’ve tried pricier alternatives that don’t offer AI call-noise-cancellation or the convenience of motion controls. It’s rare to see earbuds strike a balance between performance and affordability, but these manage to do just that.

Would I recommend them? If you prioritize sound quality, noise cancellation, and unique features, they’re a fantastic choice. Just be prepared to handle a few minor quirks along the way!

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