Realme Buds Air Pro & Watch S Review: Unboxing and First Impressions
Realme's Premium Duo: First Look
Opening Realme's latest tech feels like discovering hidden gems in the crowded wearable market. After testing both devices, I found surprising value at their ₱4,990 price point. The Buds Air Pro promise 35dB active noise cancellation – a significant upgrade from Realme's previous 25dB models – while the Watch S brings blood oxygen monitoring to budget smartwatches. These aren't just accessories; they're strategic entries into the competitive mid-range segment. From the glossy finishes to the gaming-ready latency, Realme clearly targets style-conscious users who refuse to compromise on features.
Key Unboxing Observations
The Buds Air Pro case immediately stands out with its mirror-like glossy finish, though this attracts fingerprints easily. You'll find a USB-C port and pairing button neatly integrated. Inside, the earbuds feature a stemless design with touch controls. Meanwhile, the Watch S ships with comfortable silicone straps and a circular AMOLED display that feels premium for under ₱4,000. Both products include Realme's signature yellow-accented documentation.
Technical Breakdown and Performance
Buds Air Pro: Sound and Features
Realme packs impressive tech into these earbuds:
- 35dB Hybrid ANC: Effectively muffles office chatter and street noise during testing
- 94ms Gaming Mode: Activated by long-pressing both buds, eliminating audio lag in mobile games
- Transparency Mode: Lets environmental sounds through without removing earbuds
- 10mm Bass Drivers: Deliver punchy low-end without muddying vocals
The IPX4 rating means they withstand gym sessions and light rain. During calls, the dual-mic system captures voice clearly, though windy environments still cause issues.
Watch S: Health and Smart Features
Beyond basic step counting, this watch offers:
- Blood Oxygen Monitoring: Uses Goodix sensors for SpO2 tracking during sleep
- Real-time Heart Rate: Continuous monitoring with high/low alerts
- 15-Day Battery: Lasts nearly two weeks with moderate use
- 16 Sport Modes: Tracks everything from running to yoga sessions
Notifications display clearly, but you can't reply directly from the watch. The always-on display option drains battery faster in practice.
Value Analysis and Recommendations
Where These Devices Excel
The Buds Air Pro outperform competitors at this price with their best-in-class ANC and gaming mode. For commuters and mobile gamers, they're exceptional value. The transparency mode works better than expected, making quick conversations seamless. Meanwhile, the Watch S brings advanced health metrics previously reserved for premium wearables. Sleep tracking accuracy impressed me during testing.
Key Considerations Before Buying
Consider your priorities: The Buds' glossy case shows scratches easily, while the Watch's limited reply functions may frustrate heavy communicators. Battery tests show:
| Feature | Claimed Performance | Real-World Observation |
|---|---|---|
| Buds Playback | 25 hours | ≈20 hours with ANC enabled |
| Watch Battery | 15 days | ≈12 days with heart rate monitoring |
| Charging | USB-C fast charging | Buds: 10min=3hrs playback |
Final Verdict and Action Plan
For ₱4,990, this duo delivers features typically costing 30% more. The Buds Air Pro are ideal for urban commuters needing noise cancellation, while the Watch S suits fitness enthusiasts wanting health insights without constant charging.
Your Next Steps:
- Test ANC levels in noisy environments before your return window closes
- Update firmware immediately through Realme Link app for performance fixes
- Enable gaming mode manually before competitive mobile gaming sessions
- Calibrate SpO2 readings on the Watch S during initial setup for accuracy
- Buy protective case for the Buds Air Pro to prevent scratches
Which feature matters most to you – the Buds' noise cancellation or the Watch's health tracking? Share your priority in the comments for personalized advice.
