The Huawei FreeBuds 6i are the latest addition to HUAWEI’s in-ear headphone range. With many technical improvements and innovations, we take a detailed look at the performance, design and usability of these earbuds. In this in-depth review, you’ll find out how the FreeBuds 6i perform in key areas and whether they’re really worth their price tag of around €99.
Huawei FreeBuds 6i Review Datasheet
The Huawei FreeBuds 6i impress with a variety of technical features that are remarkable in this price range. Powered by Bluetooth 5.3, the earbuds offer a stable and fast connection that largely avoids delays and disconnections. Multi-level active noise cancellation (ANC) is another highlight, effectively filtering out unwanted ambient noise to provide an immersive listening experience.
The battery life of the FreeBuds 6i is also remarkable: with the charging case, up to 35 hours of total battery life are possible. Unfortunately, there are a few disadvantages to consider. For example, the FreeBuds 6i do not support wireless charging, which could be a limitation for some users. In addition, the customization options without the Huawei AI Life app are limited, which restricts the range of functions. However, it is also possible to download the Huawei AI Life app on the Android smartphone in a roundabout way. In addition to the manufacturer’s official website and a corresponding link to the AppGallery and other portals, the app is also available. A download via the Google Play Store is not possible.
Scope of delivery
- very complete
- Power plug not included
The delivery of the Huawei FreeBuds 6i is generous and well thought out. It includes several silicone tips of different sizes, which ensure that the earphones fit perfectly in the ear. A USB-C charging cable is also included in the package, which makes charging the earphones easy and convenient. Unfortunately, no power adapter is included, which may be a disadvantage for some users, as they will have to use an existing charger or buy a separate power adapter. However, I am sure that a charging socket should be available in every household.
Huawei FreeBuds 6i delivery contents
Huawei FreeBuds 6i Design and Manufacturing Test
- Compact, ergonomic and comfortable
- Certification IP54
- attracts fingerprints
The design of the Huawei FreeBuds 6i impresses with its compactness and ergonomics. The earphones are designed to fit comfortably in the ear and do not become uncomfortable even with prolonged use. The IP54 certification is particularly noteworthy, as it protects the earphones from splashing water, making them ideal for use in various weather conditions and during sports.
Despite the functional advantages, the plastic housing of the FreeBuds 6i seems a little less qualitative. Fingerprints and traces of use can quickly become visible, especially on the white versions, which can detract from the overall visual impression. The charging case in particular magically attracts fingerprints. What is visible in my black version, depending on the incidence of light, could also be more visible in the white or purple version.
The charging case fits nicely in the hand and the spring on the flap also gives very good feedback when I open or close the case. I personally like that a lot.
Charging case with Freebuds 6i
Charging case and in-ear plug
Installation and user-friendliness
- Easy to install
- Full range of use only with AI Life app
- Multi-level ANC
Setting up the Huawei FreeBuds 6i is extremely simple. After switching on, the earphones are automatically recognized in pairing mode and can be effortlessly paired with different devices. The touch control is intuitive and allows for easy operation without the need for additional physical buttons. You will not find an overview of the functions in the accompanying material provided. However, a glance at the manufacturer’s product page will help you familiarize yourself with the basic functions of the Huawei FreeBuds 6i. However, the Huawei AI Life app is required to use all advanced functions. This app allows you to configure the earphones and use all their features, which represents additional added value for users.
The AI Life app is easy to use. After setting it up on one of my test phones, the Huawei FreeBuds 6i were recognized and an available software update was installed. The app therefore also allows you to precisely monitor the battery status of the FreeBuds 6i themselves as well as the charging status of the case. In addition, there are various setting options for the sound of the Huawei FreeBuds 6i and the ANC mode can also be controlled via the app. You can switch between Dynamic (environment-dependent noise reduction), Low, Balanced and Ultra (a blessing for public transport) modes. Unlike my test of the MiiBuds Play, the Huawei FreeBuds 6i give you full control, which I really appreciate.
What I personally appreciate is that the FreeBuds can be paired with multiple devices at the same time. Ideal if, for example, I can use the Huawei FreeBuds 6i in my home office for the video call on my work PC and then for the active break via my smartphone.
Operation and control
- all necessary functions covered
- touch sensors sometimes imprecise with wet fingers or in the rain
The touch controls of the Huawei FreeBuds 6i are responsive and offer user-friendly controls for volume, track change and answering calls. The manufacturer has thought of all the necessary functions and I especially like the gradual increase or decrease of the volume. A small drawback is that the touch gestures can sometimes react incorrectly in wet conditions, which can make use more difficult.
I really liked the self-test via the AI Life app, which checks the fit of the Huawei FreeBuds 6i.
Battery life and charging time
- very good battery life
- Wireless charging is missing
The battery life of the Huawei FreeBuds 6i is impressive for in-ear headphones in this price range. With a playback time of up to 8 hours and the additional energy from the charging case, you get a total battery life of up to 35 hours. In my test, I got about 5.5 to 7 hours of battery life depending on the app, volume and active ANC. I was able to charge the Huawei FreeBuds 6i in the charging case at least 3.5 times before having to recharge the case. So I can confirm the battery life stated by the manufacturer.
I wish there was a way to charge the charging case wirelessly. That only leaves the option of charging via USB-C.
Interface USB-C
Huawei FreeBuds 6i Sound Quality Review
- many sound models
- various possibilities
The sound quality of the Huawei FreeBuds 6i is particularly remarkable. The earphones deliver clear and balanced sound with powerful bass that does not mask the treble. Active noise cancellation contributes significantly to a better listening experience by blocking out annoying ambient noise. A small drawback is that there is clearly noticeable noise at higher volumes, no sound output but active ANC.
As already mentioned, the sound of the Huawei FreeBuds 6i can be customized via the AI Life app. In addition to the sound patterns predefined by the manufacturer, further individual settings can be programmed and saved. I find this very user-friendly and it allows me to adapt the FreeBuds to my music and listening area.
Conclusion
Overall, the Huawei FreeBuds 6i are convincing on many levels. Their compact and ergonomic design makes them very comfortable to wear, while the long battery life and effective noise cancellation make everyday life much easier. Although there are minor weaknesses such as the lack of a wireless charging function and the fact that the app can only be accessed via detours (if no Huawei phone is available), these only slightly spoil the positive overall impression.
With an excellent price-performance ratio, the FreeBuds 6i are a wise choice for anyone looking for reliable, good sound quality and comfortable in-ear headphones. Whether for sports, everyday life or travelling, the Huawei FreeBuds 6i offer a successful listening experience in every way and are undoubtedly a clear purchase recommendation.
