If you’re considering a new pair of true wireless earbuds in 2025, the comparison between the Redmi Buds 6 and the Buds 5C is worth a look. Below is a detailed breakdown of what’s changed, what stays the same, and whether the upgrade makes sense for you. We’ll use trusted specs and sources, plus include links to buy (via SK Gadgets for India) so you can check price and availability.
Buy Options
- Buds 6: SKGadgets – Redmi Buds 6 Dual Driver TWS …
- Buds 5C: SKGadgets – Redmi Buds 5C Bluetooth TWS …
Key Specifications at a Glance
Here’s a side-by-side table summarising key specs:
| Feature | Buds 5C | Buds 6 |
|---|---|---|
| Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) | Up to ~ 40 dB (hybrid) | Up to ~ 49 dB hybrid ANC |
| Driver / Sound | 12.4 mm dynamic titanium drivers (in 5C) | Dual-driver configuration (12.4mm + 5.5mm piezo) in 6 |
| Battery / Playback Time | Up to ~36 h with case (ANC off) | Up to ~42 h (with case) claimed |
| Bluetooth Version & Connectivity | BT 5.3 in 5C | BT 5.4 in 6 |
| Special Features | Quad mic, custom EQ, 10 mins quick charge = 2 h playback in 5C | Spatial audio, dual-device connection (audio sharing) in 6 |
| Water / Dust Resistance | IP54 rating (earbuds) in 5C | Not always clearly specified; less emphasised |
| Price (India) | Entry / budget segment | Higher tier (still budget-friendly) |
What’s New / What’s Better in Buds 6
Here are the main improvements when moving from the 5C to the 6:
- Better driver setup: The 6 uses a dual-driver setup (12.4mm + 5.5mm piezo) for a richer sound signature (bass + detail) versus the single 12.4mm titanium driver in the 5C.
- Stronger ANC: The Buds 6 claim up to 49 dB of hybrid ANC (blocking ~99.6% of background noise as per marketing) That’s a decent jump from the ~40 dB ANC in the 5C.
- Audio sharing / dual-device connection: Buds 6 support connecting to two devices or sharing audio, which is helpful if you switch between phone and laptop, or share music with someone else.
- Bluetooth version upgrade / latency potential: With BT 5.4 and newer hardware, the Buds 6 may provide more stable connections and better latency compared to BT 5.3 in the 5C.
- Slightly better battery claim: 42h vs 36h is a modest improvement—but in real-world use you’ll likely see less.
- Sound tuning & extra features: The Buds 6 have “5 custom sound profiles” and spatial audio which the 5C lacks (or has in less refined form)
What Stays the Same / What Might Not Be a Big Upgrade
- The general form-factor remains TWS in-ear with similar ergonomics.
- If your primary use case is casual listening (commute, podcasts) rather than audiophile or noisy environments, the 5C already covers a lot of ground.
- Even though specs are improved, real-world performance might depend on fit, ear-seal, application of ANC and content. For example, a review of the Buds 6 mentioned the ANC helps cut background noise but “the sound is tuned more for everyday listening rather than anything high-end”.
- Features like IP rating: the 5C touts IP54 for earbuds. The Buds 6 may not emphasise water/dust resistance as much, so if you’re using in active or sweaty conditions that could matter.
- Price premium: Upgrading means paying more — you’ll need to assess if the extra features justify the cost.
Which One Should You Choose?
Here’s a recommendation based on your usage:
| Use case | Go with Buds 5C | Go with Buds 6 |
|---|---|---|
| On a tighter budget and want good value noise-cancelling TWS | 5C is a strong pick. | — |
| Use in moderately noisy environments (gym, commute) but not hardcore ANC | 5C works. | 6 is better but optional. |
| Use in very noisy settings (eg. open office, flights), want better ANC + sharing between devices | — | 6 is worth the upgrade. |
| Want the most feature-rich experience (dual device, spatial audio, newer codec) | — | 6 wins. |
| Prefer max waterproofing / rugged use | 5C has IP54; check 6’s IP if important. | Check 6 specs for water/dust. |
Verdict: Should You Upgrade?
If you already own the Buds 5C and your experience is satisfying (noise cancellation is acceptable, sound quality is good for your needs, you don’t need dual-device sharing), then upgrading to the Buds 6 is optional, not mandatory.
However, if any of the following apply, then yes, the Buds 6 is a meaningful upgrade:
- You use your buds in high-noise environments (public transport, coworking spaces) and want stronger ANC.
- You often connect to multiple devices and want the convenience of audio sharing/dual-device.
- You care about sound richness (bass + detail) and want the driver upgrade / spatial audio.
- You are buying fresh and willing to pay the extra cost for this better experience.
