In the rapidly growing market of wireless earbuds, POCO, a sub-brand of Xiaomi, has launched its latest offering - the POCO Pods. These True Wireless Stereo (TWS) earbuds come with a distinctive design that closely resembles certain Apple accessories. However, POCO has managed to differentiate the Pods through various features and a remarkably affordable price of under US$20, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers in India.
Design and Colors
POCO Pods come in a design that bears a striking resemblance to some well-known Apple products. However, they do come in unique color options, with the brand's signature yellow-on-black color scheme being the prominent choice. Even the ear-tips follow the yellow theme, giving the Pods a distinct and eye-catching look.
Audio Performance
For an audio experience, POCO Pods are equipped with 12mm drivers that ensure a powerful sound output. These drivers are responsible for transmitting audio over Bluetooth 5.3, providing a seamless wireless connection to compatible devices. However, specific details about codec support are yet to be disclosed by the brand.
Latency and Connectivity
The POCO Pods support Google Fast Pair, enabling quick and hassle-free pairing with Android devices. They boast an impressive low latency of as little as 60 milliseconds, ensuring minimal delays between audio playback and device interaction. This makes them suitable for tasks that require real-time audio synchronization, such as gaming and video streaming.
Noise Cancellation Technology
While the POCO Pods come with Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) technology, it's important to note that this is not the same as Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). ENC primarily focuses on enhancing voice call clarity by reducing ambient noise during calls. This feature can be valuable for users who frequently engage in voice calls and need clear communication even in noisy environments.
Battery Life and Charging
POCO claims that the Pods can deliver up to 30 hours of battery life, which is quite impressive considering their budget-friendly price. However, it's essential to understand that this estimation includes the additional charges provided by the charging case. The case itself contributes to the Pods' battery life and offers a convenient way to recharge them on the go.
The Pods feature USB Type-C charging, which is a modern and widely adopted standard for charging electronic devices. This means users can easily find compatible charging cables and adapters, reducing any inconvenience that might arise due to proprietary charging connectors.
IPX4 Rating for Water and Sweat Resistance
With an IPX4 rating, the POCO Pods are well-equipped to handle water splashes and sweat during workouts or other activities. While they may not be suitable for submergence in water, the Pods are protected against light splashes and should survive moderate moisture exposure without any issues.
Comparison with Redmi Buds 4-series Active Variant
Interestingly, the POCO Pods share many similarities with the Redmi Buds 4-series' Active variant. Both offerings target the budget segment and aim to provide value for money to consumers. The Redmi Buds 4-series' Active variant comes with more finish options, but the POCO Pods have the advantage of being priced even lower.
As of now, the Redmi Buds 4-series' Active variant is available on Amazon.in for INR 1,399 (~US$17), while the POCO Pods are listed on Flipkart for an attractive price of INR 1,199 (~US$15). This makes the POCO Pods an even more affordable option for users who want a feature-rich audio experience without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
In conclusion, POCO Pods offer an appealing package of features, making them a budget-friendly choice for consumers in India. With Bluetooth 5.3-powered wireless audio, 12mm drivers, ENC technology for improved voice calls, and an IPX4 rating for water resistance, these earbuds provide excellent value for their price range.
While they may share similarities with the Redmi Buds 4-series' Active variant, the POCO Pods stand out with their lower price, making them a compelling option for users seeking affordable wireless earbuds without compromising on essential features.
With the growing demand for wireless audio accessories, the POCO Pods aim to carve a niche for themselves in the market by catering to the needs of budget-conscious consumers who seek a reliable and enjoyable listening experience. As technology continues to advance, it's impressive to see such affordable options offering competitive features in the world of wireless audio.
