Realme Buds Air 8 Review

The Quick Verdict

The Realme Buds Air 7 Pro arrive as realme’s most ambitious true wireless earbuds yet, packing a 55dB active noise cancellation (ANC) system, LDAC audio codec support, dual-driver architecture, and seamless dual-device pairing—all at an aggressive ₹3,799 price point. This positions them as a direct challenger to the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro, which has dominated the sub-₹4,000 ANC segment in India. After a week of side-by-side testing, the verdict is clear: the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro outperform the OnePlus offering in ANC depth and battery life (claiming 58 hours with ANC off, delivering a real-world 44 hours), while the Nord Buds 3 Pro hold an edge in call clarity and adaptive ANC polish. For budget-conscious buyers prioritising noise cancellation and battery life, the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro are now the default recommendation in this price bracket. They are that complete.

Who Should Buy?

Deciding whether the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro are the right fit depends on your priorities. Below is a quick guide to help you determine if these earbuds align with your needs.

What's In The Box

The Realme Buds Air 7 Pro come in a minimalist yet functional packaging. Here’s what you’ll find inside:

• The Buds Air 7 Pro earbuds and charging case
• USB-C charging cable (no wall adapter included)
• Extra silicone ear tips (sizes S, M, L) for a customised fit
• Quick start guide and warranty card

Realme keeps the unboxing experience straightforward, focusing on the essentials without unnecessary frills. The case itself is slightly bulkier than some competitors, but this is a trade-off for the larger battery capacity.

The ANC Statement

Active noise cancellation is the headline feature of the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro, and realme isn’t shy about its ambitions. The 55dB ANC claim is the highest in this price segment, and in real-world testing, it lives up to the hype. Whether you’re commuting on a noisy metro, working in a bustling office, or trying to focus on a flight, the ANC performance is genuinely impressive. The earbuds effectively neutralise low-frequency rumble (like engine noise) and mid-frequency chatter, creating a noticeably quieter environment.

The realme Link app plays a crucial role in fine-tuning the ANC experience. It offers three ANC modes—Light, Balanced, and Deep—along with a Transparency mode for ambient awareness. The app is responsive and well-designed, with regular firmware updates ensuring the earbuds stay optimised over time. Dual-device pairing is another standout feature, allowing seamless switching between your phone and laptop without manual reconnection. This is a boon for professionals who juggle multiple devices.

However, the ANC isn’t without minor quirks. The adaptive logic, which automatically adjusts ANC levels based on your environment, isn’t as polished as the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro. There are occasional hiccups where the ANC strength fluctuates unnecessarily, but these are rare and don’t detract significantly from the overall experience.

Sound Quality: Dual Drivers and LDAC

The Realme Buds Air 7 Pro are among the few earbuds in this price range to feature a dual-driver setup, combining a 10mm dynamic driver with a balanced armature driver. This configuration aims to deliver a wider soundstage and better instrument separation, and in practice, it works well. The audio profile is tuned for a balanced signature, with a slight emphasis on bass that won’t overwhelm the mids and highs. Vocals are clear, and the treble is crisp without being harsh, making these earbuds versatile for most genres, from pop and hip-hop to classical and podcasts.

For audiophiles, the inclusion of LDAC support is a major selling point. LDAC is Sony’s high-resolution audio codec, capable of transmitting 24-bit/96kHz audio over Bluetooth—far superior to the standard SBC or AAC codecs found in most budget earbuds. However, LDAC requires a compatible source device (like a Sony Xperia phone or a high-end Android device with LDAC enabled), so iPhone users won’t benefit from this feature. Even without LDAC, the earbuds sound great with standard AAC and SBC codecs, but the option for higher fidelity is a nice touch.

One minor gripe is the lack of customisable EQ settings in the realme Link app. While the default tuning is pleasant, users who prefer a bass-heavy or treble-focused sound signature will need to rely on third-party apps or their source device’s EQ settings.

Battery Life: Class-Leading Endurance

Battery life is another area where the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro shine. Realme claims up to 58 hours of total playback with ANC off, and while real-world usage falls short of that, the 44 hours I achieved in testing is still among the best in this segment. With ANC enabled, the battery life drops to around 30 hours, which is still impressive for earbuds with such aggressive noise cancellation. The case provides an additional 3-4 full charges, ensuring you won’t be left stranded during long trips or workdays.

Fast charging is also supported, with a 10-minute top-up delivering roughly 2 hours of playback. This is a lifesaver when you’re in a hurry and need a quick boost. The USB-C charging port is a welcome inclusion, aligning with modern standards and ensuring compatibility with most charging cables.

Call Quality: A Minor Weakness

While the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro excel in ANC and sound quality, call performance is their Achilles’ heel. The earbuds feature a 3-mic setup (two on each bud), but in noisy environments, the call clarity lags behind the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro. Voices can sound slightly muffled, and background noise isn’t always suppressed effectively. This isn’t a dealbreaker for most users, but if you frequently take calls in loud settings, the Nord Buds 3 Pro might be the better choice.

In quieter environments, the call quality is decent, with voices coming through clearly. However, the occasional wind noise and inconsistent noise suppression hold it back from greatness.

Design and Build: Functional but Forgettable

The Realme Buds Air 7 Pro adopt a design language that’s functional but unremarkable. The earbuds themselves are lightweight and comfortable, with a secure fit that works well for workouts and long listening sessions. The stems are slightly elongated, which some users might find less ergonomic, but they don’t protrude excessively.

The charging case is where the design falls short. It’s bulkier than competitors like the CMF Buds 2 or Nothing Ear, making it less pocket-friendly. The matte finish is prone to smudges and fingerprints, and the overall aesthetic is generic, lacking the flair of brands like Nothing or even OnePlus. That said, the build quality is solid, with no creaks or loose hinges, and the earbuds snap into place securely.

Comfort is subjective, but the included silicone tips (sizes S, M, L) should accommodate most ear shapes. The earbuds also have an IPX5 water-resistance rating, making them suitable for workouts and light rain, though they’re not fully waterproof like some higher-end models.

How to Choose: Realme Buds Air 7 Pro vs. the Competition

The sub-₹4,000 ANC earbuds segment is crowded, with strong contenders from OnePlus, CMF, and Nothing. Here’s how the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro stack up against the alternatives:

Realme Buds Air 7 Pro vs. OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro

The Nord Buds 3 Pro are the closest rival, priced at around ₹3,099. They offer superior call quality and a more polished adaptive ANC system, but the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro counter with stronger ANC performance, LDAC support, and better battery life. If you prioritise calls and adaptive ANC, the OnePlus earbuds are the better pick. If ANC depth and battery life are your top concerns, the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro win.

Realme Buds Air 7 Pro vs. CMF Buds 2

The CMF Buds 2 are a compelling alternative at ₹2,499, offering LDAC support and a more premium design. However, they lack the dual-driver setup and 55dB ANC of the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro. The CMF Buds 2 are a great choice if you want to save ₹1,300 and can compromise on ANC strength and battery life.

Realme Buds Air 7 Pro vs. OnePlus Buds 4

The OnePlus Buds 4 are priced similarly at ₹3,799 but focus more on balanced performance rather than maximalist features. They offer better call quality and a more refined user experience, but the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro pull ahead with LDAC, dual drivers, and stronger ANC. The choice here depends on whether you value features (Realme) or polish (OnePlus).

Realme Buds Air 7 Pro vs. Nothing Ear

The Nothing Ear are priced at ₹4,999, making them a premium option in this comparison. They offer a unique design, solid ANC, and good sound quality, but the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro deliver better battery life and ANC performance at a lower price. Unless you’re a fan of Nothing’s design language, the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro are the better value.

What to Look For When Buying ANC Earbuds Under ₹5,000

If you’re shopping for ANC earbuds in this price range, here are the key factors to consider:

• ANC Performance: Look for earbuds with at least 30-40dB ANC for meaningful noise reduction. The Realme Buds Air 7 Pro set the benchmark here with 55dB.
• Battery Life: Aim for at least 25-30 hours with ANC on. The Realme Buds Air 7 Pro exceed this comfortably.
• Sound Quality: Dual-driver setups (like in the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro) or LDAC support can elevate the audio experience.
• Call Quality: If you take frequent calls, prioritise earbuds with multiple mics and good noise suppression (e.g., OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro).
• Ecosystem Compatibility: If you own a realme phone or other realme devices, the Buds Air 7 Pro integrate seamlessly with the realme Link app.
• Design and Comfort: Ensure the earbuds fit well and are comfortable for long sessions. The Realme Buds Air 7 Pro are lightweight but have a bulkier case.
• Additional Features: Multipoint pairing, fast charging, and IP ratings (e.g., IPX5) add value to the overall package.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Best-in-class ANC: The 55dB ANC is the strongest in this price segment, outperforming competitors like the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro.
• LDAC and dual-driver audio: Rare features at ₹3,799, delivering superior sound quality for audiophiles.
• Class-leading battery life: 44 hours of real-world usage with ANC off is among the best in the segment.
• Multipoint pairing: Seamlessly switch between two devices without manual reconnection.
• Responsive realme Link app: Regular firmware updates and intuitive controls enhance the user experience.
• Comfortable fit: Lightweight design with multiple ear tip sizes for a secure fit.

Cons

• Call quality lags behind competitors: The 3-mic setup struggles in noisy environments compared to the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro.
• Generic case design: The charging case is bulky and lacks visual appeal.
• Adaptive ANC logic isn’t as polished: Occasional fluctuations in ANC strength can be distracting.
• No custom EQ in the app: Users who prefer a bass-heavy or treble-focused sound signature will need third-party solutions.
• LDAC limited to Android: iPhone users won’t benefit from the high-resolution audio codec.

Buying Tips

If you’ve decided the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro are the right choice for you, here are some tips to get the most out of your purchase:

• Check for discounts: Realme frequently offers promotions on its website and e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Flipkart. Keep an eye out for deals that could lower the price below ₹3,799.
• Use the realme Link app: Download the app to access firmware updates, ANC controls, and other features. It’s a key part of the experience.
• Experiment with ear tips: The included silicone tips (S, M, L) can significantly impact comfort and ANC performance. Try all three sizes to find the best fit.
• Enable LDAC if possible: If you have a compatible Android device, enable LDAC in the developer options for the best audio quality.
• Test the ANC in different environments: The earbuds perform best in consistent noise environments (e.g., flights, offices). If you’re in a dynamic setting (e.g., a busy street), the adaptive ANC might need manual adjustment.
• Consider a case cover: The matte finish on the charging case attracts fingerprints. A silicone cover can keep it looking clean.

Alternatives

If the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro don’t quite meet your needs, here are some alternatives to consider:

OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro

Priced at ~₹3,099, the Nord Buds 3 Pro are the best alternative if call quality and adaptive ANC are your top priorities. They lack LDAC and dual drivers but offer a more polished user experience and better noise suppression during calls.

CMF Buds 2

At ~₹2,499, the CMF Buds 2 are a great budget option with LDAC support and a premium design. They compromise on ANC strength and battery life but are ideal for users who want to save money without sacrificing too much performance.

OnePlus Buds 4

Priced at ~₹3,799, the OnePlus Buds 4 offer a balanced package with good ANC, sound quality, and call performance. They lack the dual-driver setup and LDAC of the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro but provide a more refined experience overall.

Nothing Ear

At ~₹4,999, the Nothing Ear are a premium option with a unique design and solid ANC. They’re worth considering if you’re a fan of Nothing’s aesthetic and can stretch your budget.

FAQ

Q: Are the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro compatible with iPhones?

A: Yes, the earbuds work with iPhones, but features like LDAC and multipoint pairing are limited or unavailable. The realme Link app is also Android-only, so iPhone users won’t have access to firmware updates or ANC controls.

Q: How does the ANC compare to the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro?

A: The Realme Buds Air 7 Pro offer stronger ANC (55dB vs. ~40dB for the Nord Buds 3 Pro) and better noise reduction in most environments. However, the Nord Buds 3 Pro have a more polished adaptive ANC system that adjusts more smoothly to changing noise levels.

Q: Can I use the earbuds for workouts?

A: Yes, the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro have an IPX5 water-resistance rating, making them suitable for workouts and light rain. However, they’re not fully waterproof, so avoid submerging them in water.

Q: Do the earbuds support wireless charging?

A: No, the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro do not support wireless charging. You’ll need to use the included USB-C cable to charge the case.

Q: How do I enable LDAC on the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro?

A: LDAC is supported on compatible Android devices. To enable it, go to your phone’s developer options (tap the build number in Settings > About Phone 7 times to unlock developer options), then select LDAC as the Bluetooth audio codec. Note that LDAC is not available on iPhones.

Q: Are the earbuds comfortable for long listening sessions?

A: Yes, the earbuds are lightweight and come with multiple ear tip sizes to ensure a secure and comfortable fit. Most users should find them comfortable for extended use.

Q: How does the sound quality compare to the OnePlus Buds 4?

A: The Realme Buds Air 7 Pro have a slight edge in sound quality thanks to their dual-driver setup and LDAC support. The OnePlus Buds 4 offer a more balanced sound signature but lack the high-resolution audio capabilities of the Realme earbuds.

Bottom Line

The Realme Buds Air 7 Pro are the current value kings of the sub-₹4,000 ANC TWS segment. They deliver the strongest ANC performance, the best battery life, and a feature set that punches well above their price point. The inclusion of LDAC and dual drivers is a rare treat at ₹3,799, and the multipoint pairing is a practical addition for users who juggle multiple devices.

However, they’re not without flaws. Call quality lags behind the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro, the adaptive ANC logic isn’t as polished, and the case design is forgettable. If your priorities are ordered ANC-first and battery-second, the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro are the clear choice. If call quality and adaptive ANC are more important, the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro are the better pick.

Ultimately, the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro win the tighter scoring battle, earning an 8.4/10. They’re the maximalist’s mid-price pick—packed with features and performance that redefine what’s possible in this segment. For budget-conscious buyers who refuse to compromise on ANC or battery life, these earbuds are a no-brainer.

Verdict

For users who prioritise ANC depth and battery life above all else, the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro are the best option in the sub-₹4,000 segment. They outperform the competition in these key areas and offer additional perks like LDAC support and dual-driver audio. However, if call quality or adaptive ANC polish is your top concern, the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro remain a strong alternative.

Today, the Realme Buds Air 7 Pro win the tighter scoring battle, proving that realme’s maximalist approach can deliver exceptional value. 8.4/10 – The maximalist's mid-price pick.