I won’t sugarcoat it: the Miniso X28 Wireless Earbuds sound tempting with their AI translation and open-ear design, but they’re not the must-buy you might hope for. After testing them, I found too many flaws to give a glowing endorsement. If you’re hunting for budget earbuds with unique features, you might be intrigued, but brace for some letdowns. Let me walk you through my experience, break down the pros and cons, compare them to other brands, and share tips to keep them running—if you decide to take the plunge.
Unpacking the Design and Build Quality
The Miniso X28 earbuds aim for a futuristic vibe with their open-ear hooks and glossy plastic finish. Weighing just 6 grams each, they’re featherlight, which I appreciated during long wear. The over-ear hooks are flexible, designed to fit most ear shapes, and the green charging case is compact enough to slip into a pocket. But the build quality raises red flags. The plastic feels flimsy, and after a minor drop from my desk, one earbud developed a faint crackle. Online reviews mention similar issues, with some users reporting broken hooks after a month. For $40, I expected sturdier construction, especially for active use like jogging or commuting.
My Experience with the Miniso X28 Wireless Earbuds
When I first unboxed the Miniso X28 Wireless Earbuds, I was excited. The sleek green case and lightweight design felt promising, and the open-ear concept—resting over your ears instead of jamming inside—sounded perfect for my jogs and long work calls. Pairing them with my iPhone via Bluetooth 5.4 was a breeze; they connected in seconds with no hiccups. The sound was clear for podcasts and calls, with vocals standing out nicely. I even tested the AI translation feature with the Saymi Intelligence app, hoping to chat with a Spanish-speaking friend effortlessly.
But the shine wore off fast. The translation feature, touted for 150 languages, was a bust. I tried English to Spanish in a quiet café, and it managed basic phrases like “Hola” but stumbled on full sentences. The app lagged, and without Wi-Fi, it was useless. Worse, the earbuds kept slipping during runs, forcing me to adjust them constantly. The touch controls were another headache—brushing my hair would pause my music! Battery life was a bright spot, lasting hours, but the finicky fit and unreliable translation left me frustrated. By week two, I was ready to try something else.
Sound Quality: Does It Deliver?
For budget earbuds, the X28’s audio is decent but not mind-blowing. Music sounds clear, with vocals and mids standing out, making podcasts and audiobooks enjoyable. Bass, however, is weak—don’t expect thumping beats for hip-hopodone or EDM. I played a variety of genres, from jazz to pop, and found the sound flat compared to pricier competitors like Jabra. The open-ear design lets in ambient noise, which is great for safety but terrible in noisy places like buses or cafés. For casual listening at home, they’re fine, but audiophiles or commuters will want more punch and isolation.
The AI Translation Feature: Hype vs. Reality
The X28’s big selling point is its AI-powered translation for 150 languages, enabled through the Saymi Intelligence app. I was thrilled to test this, imagining seamless chats with international colleagues. In practice, it’s a letdown. The app requires a constant internet connection, and even then, it’s slow—translating “Can you recommend a good restaurant?” into Spanish took 5 seconds and got the grammar wrong. Complex sentences? Forget it. The app crashed once during testing, and privacy concerns arose when it requested full phone access. If translation is your main goal, dedicated apps like Google Translate are far more reliable.
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Connectivity and Compatibility Across Devices
Bluetooth 5.4 makes the X28 earbuds a connectivity champ. I tested them with an iPhone 13, a Samsung Galaxy S22, and a Windows laptop, and they paired instantly with no dropouts over a 10-meter range. The 50ms latency kept Netflix and YouTube videos in sync, and switching between devices was smooth, though you need to disconnect one device first. The Saymi app, however, is less versatile—it’s buggy on iOS and occasionally failed to recognize the earbuds on Android. If you skip the app and use them as standard earbuds, compatibility is solid across platforms.
Who Are These Earbuds For?
The Miniso X28 earbuds target a niche: budget-conscious users who want open-ear comfort and occasional translation. They’re decent for casual listeners who prioritize battery life and clear calls, like students or remote workers. The open-ear design suits outdoor enthusiasts who need to hear their surroundings, like joggers or cyclists. But if you’re an audiophile, frequent traveler relying on translation, or someone needing rugged earbuds for intense workouts, these won’t cut it. The translation feature might appeal to language learners, but its unreliability limits its use for serious multilingual needs.
Pros and Cons of the Miniso X28 Wireless Earbuds
Pros of the Miniso X28 Wireless Earbuds
The Miniso X28 earbuds have some redeeming qualities, but they’re not enough to outweigh the flaws. Here’s what I liked:
- Impressive Battery Life: These earbuds keep going for hours—around 16 hours on a single charge, and the case extends it to about 25 hours. I used them for days without needing a recharge, which is great for long commutes or work sessions.
- Comfortable Open-Ear Design: Unlike in-ear buds that pinch, the X28’s over-ear hooks reduce pressure. I wore them for hours without discomfort, even with glasses, making them ideal for casual listening or calls.
- Clear Call Quality: The microphone picks up your voice well, with minimal background noise. I took calls outdoors, and my colleagues heard me clearly, which is a win for work-from-home setups.
- Bluetooth 5.4 Connectivity: Pairing is fast and stable across iOS and Android. I switched between my phone and laptop without dropouts, and the 50ms latency kept audio synced during videos.
- Affordable Price Point: At around $40, they’re budget-friendly for casual users who want basic earbuds with a translation gimmick, even if it underperforms.
Cons of the Miniso X28 Wireless Earbuds
The downsides are hard to ignore, and they stack up quickly. Here’s what held me back:
- Unreliable AI Translation: The Saymi app is clunky and needs constant internet. It struggled with complex sentences and crashed once, making the 150-language claim feel like hype.
- Loose Fit for Active Use: The earbuds slip during runs or workouts, even with normal-sized ears. I was constantly readjusting them, which killed the vibe during jogs.
- Finicky Touch Controls: The tap-to-pause feature is oversensitive. A slight brush pauses your music, and getting the controls to register correctly felt like a gamble.
- Weak Noise Isolation: The open-ear design lets in too much ambient noise. In busy places like a coffee shop, I could barely focus on my music or calls.
- Questionable Durability: The plastic build feels cheap, and after a minor drop, one earbud started crackling. Online reviews echo concerns about them breaking within months.
Maintenance Tips for Miniso X28 Wireless Earbuds
If you end up with the Miniso X28 earbuds, proper care can help them last longer—though don’t expect miracles. Here’s how to keep them in shape:
- Regular Cleaning: Dirt and sweat can clog the speakers or mess with the fit. After each use, wipe the earbuds with a soft, dry cloth. For deeper cleaning, use a cotton swab lightly dampened with rubbing alcohol to clean the hooks and speaker grilles. Avoid water, as their IPX5 rating only handles light splashes, not submersion. Clean the charging case’s pins with a dry brush to ensure proper charging.
- Safe Storage: Always store the earbuds in their case when not in use to protect them from drops or dust. Keep the case in a cool, dry place—avoid leaving it in a hot car or damp gym bag, as heat and moisture can damage the battery. Use the included USB-C cable for charging, and don’t overcharge beyond two hours to preserve battery health.
- App and Firmware Updates: The Saymi app is glitchy, but check for updates regularly, as they might fix translation or connectivity issues. Update the earbuds’ firmware through the app to improve performance. If pairing fails, reset the earbuds by pressing both for five seconds until the lights flash, then reconnect to your device.
- Avoid Rough Handling: The plastic build isn’t rugged, so handle them gently. Don’t toss the case into a crowded bag, and avoid using them in heavy rain, as IPX5 won’t protect against downpours. If they start slipping, adjust the hooks carefully to avoid cracking the frame.
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Battery Performance and Charging Insights
The X28’s battery life is a standout, clocking in at 16 hours per charge and up to 25 hours with the case. I charged them once a week during moderate use—think 2-3 hours daily for calls and music. The USB-C charging case juices up in about 90 minutes, and a 10-minute quick charge gives you roughly 2 hours of playback, which saved me during a rushed morning. However, the case’s hinge feels flimsy, and I worried it might snap with frequent opening. Also, there’s no battery level indicator on the case, so you’re guessing when it’s low unless you check the app.
Comparison of Miniso X28 Wireless Earbuds with Other Brands
Apple AirPods Pro 2
Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 are a premium choice, far outpacing the Miniso X28. Their active noise cancellation (ANC) is top-notch, blocking out noise in crowded spaces, unlike the X28’s open-ear leaks. Sound quality is rich, with deep bass and crisp highs, perfect for music lovers. The fit is secure for workouts, and iOS integration is seamless, with features like spatial audio. Battery life is solid, though the X28’s case lasts longer. At $249, they’re pricey, but their durability and performance justify the cost for Apple users seeking a polished experience.
Jabra Elite 4
Jabra Elite 4 earbuds offer a balanced mix of quality and value at $99. Their ANC is decent, outshining the X28’s lack of noise isolation, and the sound is customizable via an app, with punchy bass. The IP55 rating handles sweat better than the X28’s IPX5, making them great for workouts. They stay secure during runs, unlike the slippery X28. Battery life is 5.5 hours, with the case adding 22 hours. Bluetooth multipoint is a bonus for switching devices. They lack translation features but excel for everyday reliability and comfort.
Soundcore Liberty 4 NC
Anker’s Soundcore Liberty 4 NC, priced at $99, delivers stellar ANC and sound for the price. The bass is robust, and the app lets you tweak EQ settings, unlike the X28’s fixed audio. They’re comfy for long wear and stay put during exercise, with an IPX4 rating for sweat resistance. Battery life matches the X28 at 10 hours per charge, with 50 hours via the case. Bluetooth 5.3 ensures stable connections. No translation feature, but their noise cancellation and audio quality make them a stronger pick for most users.
Sony WF-1000XM5
Sony’s WF-1000XM5 earbuds, at $299, are a high-end marvel. Their ANC is industry-leading, silencing even loud environments, and the sound is audiophile-grade, with deep bass and clear treble. The fit is secure for active use, and the IPX4 rating handles sweat. Battery life is 8 hours, with the case adding 24 hours. Bluetooth 5.3 and multipoint connectivity are flawless. Unlike the X28, they don’t offer translation, but their premium build and audio performance make them a dream for music lovers willing to splurge.
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
Bose’s QuietComfort Earbuds II, priced at $199, excel in noise cancellation, outclassing the X28’s open-ear design. The sound is warm and balanced, ideal for all genres, and the fit is snug for workouts. Battery life is 6 hours, with the case adding 18 hours, slightly less than the X28. The IPX4 rating ensures sweat resistance. Bose’s app offers EQ customization, unlike the X28’s limited Saymi app. No translation feature, but their comfort and ANC make them a solid choice for immersive listening.
Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro
Samsung’s Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, at $249, shine for Android users. Their ANC is strong, and the sound is vibrant, with customizable EQ via the Samsung app. The fit is secure for exercise, and the IP57 rating beats the X28’s splash resistance. Battery life is 6 hours, with 30 hours from the case. Bluetooth 5.3 ensures smooth connections, and features like 360 Audio add flair. No translation, but their seamless Samsung integration and robust build make them a premium alternative to the X28.
Beats Fit Pro
Beats Fit Pro, priced at $199, are built for active lifestyles. Their wingtip design ensures a rock-solid fit during runs, unlike the X28’s slippage. ANC is effective, and the sound is bass-heavy, great for workouts. Battery life is 6 hours, with 24 hours via the case. The IPX4 rating handles sweat, and Apple’s H1 chip offers seamless iOS pairing. No translation feature, but their durability and vibrant audio make them a better pick for fitness buffs than the X28’s flimsy build.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Miniso X28 earbuds have an IPX5 rating, meaning they’re resistant to light splashes and sweat but not fully waterproof. You can use them during workouts or light rain, but don’t submerge them or expose them to heavy downpours, as this could damage the internals.
Battery-wise, the X28 earbuds last about 16 hours per charge, with the case providing up to 25 hours total. Durability is a concern, though—many users report them breaking within 4-6 months, especially with rough handling or drops, due to the cheap plastic build.
Yes, the X28 earbuds work with iPhones via Bluetooth 5.4, offering stable connections for music, calls, and videos. The Saymi app, needed for translation, is available on iOS, but its performance is spotty, and some features may lag compared to Android.
There’s no Miniso X08 model in my knowledge base, so I assume you meant the X28. If you’re referring to a different model, please clarify. For the X28, expect 16 hours per charge and 25 hours with the case, though durability issues may limit their lifespan to months.
Final Thoughts
After weeks of testing, I can’t recommend the Miniso X28 Wireless Earbuds wholeheartedly. The battery life and open-ear comfort are great, and the price is tempting, but the unreliable translation, slippery fit, and flimsy build are dealbreakers. Compared to brands like Jabra, Soundcore, or even Apple, the X28 falls short in performance and durability. If you need basic earbuds for casual use and don’t mind fiddling with them, they might work. But for most, your money’s better spent on a more reliable pair. Save yourself the hassle and explore other options.