Huawei has just lifted the veil on its new True Wireless headphones: the FreeBuds 4i. Featuring active noise reduction technology and a new design compared to 3i, they are offered at a price of 100 euros, which makes them interesting on paper.
All smartphone manufacturers want their True Wireless headphones to accompany their products. Apple, OnePlus, Samsung… and of course Huawei. It is the latter that interests us today since it introduces its new baby: the FreeBuds 4i. These headphones logically succeed the FreeBuds 3i and want to bring the best of Huawei technology to the segment. They have a new design, with an ovoid case that, according to the firm, adapts better to the shape of the palm. We take their word for it, the important thing being that they don’t take up too much space in a pocket or bag.
This case is very classic in its approach to the product, with a small LED on the outside to inform about autonomy and connection as well as a hood that allows access to the headphones. The product is available in white, black and red. The headphones in question adopt a classic intra-ear shape with rubber tip and small appendage to secure it in the ear pavilion. Unsurprisingly, Huawei also offers a tactile dimension to its product, since it is possible to control its FreeBuds by tapping on it, to change music or listening mode, for example. One thing we see everywhere else but always appreciable on this kind of device.
FreeBuds 4i offer active noise reduction
But the greatest asset of FreeBuds 4i is the presence of an active noise reduction algorithm. This is not new, since the thing was already present on the previous model of Huawei. For the uninitiated, this means that once the headphones are strung on and the option activated, the noises around you disappear. If the algorithm is effective, you won’t even hear someone talking a few meters away from you even without music played in the background.
Related: Freebuds 3i test: Huawei takes on Apple’s AirPods Pro
The headphones also offer a perception mode, which allows you to do the opposite. Thanks to the microphone outside the object, you will hear all the noises around you, even with the music at full strength. Again, this is interesting if it is controlled and allows for greater safety when travelling around. Of course, we will have to test all this to determine if these two algorithms work effectively.
Huawei promises 22 hours of battery life
Autonomy is the nerve of war over this kind of product and with its Freebuds 4i, Huawei promises a battery of up to 22 hours with active noise reduction (by combining earphone and case). The case is compatible with fast charging and can theoretically offer four hours of music for only ten minutes of charging.
For the sound itself, the manufacturer indicates that its FreeBuds 4i are equipped with 10 mm drivers that promise powerful bass. The press release touts the merits of the product on pop music. Again, this is a fact that we will have to verify in our tests, as this kind of statement is questionable. Finally, it should be noted that if you are equipped with a Huawei smartphone with EMUI 10 or more, you will be able to benefit from small additional options such as quick pairing, very convenient.
In short, the FreeBuds 4i are alluring on paper and could come to titillate the cadors of the segment that are the Apple Airpods or the Galaxy Buds Pro of Samsung. The main argument of this new challenger is its price set at 99 euros, which is a hundred euros less than direct competition. The headphones will be available from 22 March on Huawei’s website and 20 euros will be refunded on purchase until April 25.
