TL;DR / At a Glance: The Redmi Headphones Neo is Xiaomi’s first over-ear Redmi headset, featuring 42dB Active Noise Cancellation and an industry-leading 72-hour battery life. It utilises USB-C charging and carries a name that many suggest is inspired by Apple’s “Neo” product tiering, targeting aspirational tech buyers. The Redmi Headphones Neo is now available in Malaysia, retailing at a price of RM239 (SRP: RM399). Adam Lobo’s take: Plenty of headphones for the money.
Updated: 30 May 2026
Xiaomi has never been a brand to shy away from its influences. Since its inception, the tech giant has worn its admiration for Cupertino on its sleeve, often mirroring design aesthetics and software interfaces to capture the aspirational segment of the market. With the launch of the Redmi Headphones Neo, Xiaomi’s first over-ear headphones under the Redmi sub-brand, we are seeing this trend move into the nomenclature territory once again.
While Apple’s “Neo” branding has become synonymous with a specific tier of its MacBook lineup, Xiaomi’s adoption of the name for its budget audio gear is a tactical move. It signals to the consumer that they are getting something modern, new, and perhaps a tier above the standard budget fare, even if the price tag suggests otherwise.
Technical Prowess vs. Price Point
Putting the naming conventions aside, the hardware specifications of the Redmi Headphones Neo are genuinely impressive for the segment. The standout feature is the 72-hour battery life. In a world where even premium over-ear cans struggle to cross the 50-hour mark with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) engaged, Xiaomi is making a play for the “marathon user.”
The headphones feature 42dB Active Noise Cancellation, a respectable figure that should theoretically handle the low-frequency hum of a commute or a busy office. It may not dethrone the Sony WH-1000XM5 in terms of isolation, but at its projected price point, it doesn’t have to. It just needs to pass the Adam Lobo’s “Real Talk” utility test for the everyday student or professional.
Connectivity and Design
The inclusion of USB-C support for charging and data is now standard, but Xiaomi has also focused on the physical build. The over-ear design is a departure from their usual TWS (True Wireless Stereo) dominance, indicating a shift toward lifestyle audio. By offering high-fidelity features like ANC and massive battery life under the Neo banner, Xiaomi is effectively bridging the gap between “cheap tech” and “tech that feels premium.”
For the Malaysian and SE Asian market, where Redmi holds significant trust equity, these headphones will likely become a staple. Whether the Neo name is a blatant copycat move or a smart marketing alignment, the value proposition remains hard to ignore.
Pricing and availability
The Redmi Headphones Neo is now available in Malaysia via official online stores on Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop for a special launch price of RM239 (SRP: RM399)
VIA Gizmochina
