Huawei FreeBuds 5 review – Comfy in-ears with good sound

Setting up the Huawei FreeBuds 5 is easiest on a smartphone from the manufacturer, provided it has at least EMUI 10 or Harmony OS 2.0 installed. In this case, the smartphone or tablet offers to pair the headphones directly via a pop-up, similar to Google Fast Pair. Windows also directly recognizes the pairing-ready TWS. For other Android or Apple devices, pairing must be done manually, which is also quick. If you want to configure the FreeBuds 5 and install updates, you should download the AI Life app. It is available in Apple’s App Store, Huawei’s AppGallery, and Google Android users can download it via the QR code on the packaging or via Huawei’s homepage.

In the app, the wear detection can be turned on or off, updates can be installed, or the touch controls can be adjusted to the user’s needs. Settings for the equalizer and ANC can also be found there. Those who pair multiple devices with the FreeBuds 5 will appreciate the connection center, which can be used to quickly switch to another, already paired device or to manage them. Thanks to dual Bluetooth, two devices, for example, a computer and a smartphone, can remain permanently connected to the headphones. If you ever lose an earphone, you can use the search function. A loud ringing is played on the selected earbud to track it down acoustically.

Huawei’s FreeBuds 5 can be controlled via the smartphone, and also by touch via the integrated sensor surfaces on the earbuds. This works flawlessly in the test and does not require much practice. The headphones can also be used separately.