The HMD Amped Buds mark the brand’s entry into the crowded wireless earbuds market, and surprisingly, they’re arriving with more than just nostalgic branding.
HMD, best known for reviving the Nokia name with modern Android phones, is now venturing into audio with a product that promises solid performance, clean design, and accessible pricing.
Built for daily use, these buds feature Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, clear audio, and an impressive battery life all within a compact case that fits easily in your pocket.
Key Features of HMD Amped Buds
HMD didn’t just release another pair of basic earbuds.
Instead, they developed a product that feels thoughtful in both function and form.
Feature Breakdown
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Bluetooth Version | 5.3 |
| Audio Profile | Dynamic drivers with enhanced bass and balanced mids |
| Noise Isolation | Passive, with snug in-ear fit |
| Battery Life | Up to 7 hours per charge, 30 hours with case |
| Touch Controls | Play, pause, skip tracks, and activate voice assistant |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 rating for sweat and splash protection |
| Charging | USB-C fast charging (10 mins = 90 mins of playback) |
These features place the Amped Buds right in line with modern standards, even challenging more expensive brands on the basics that matter: sound, endurance, and comfort.
Sound Performance and Daily Use
While the Amped Buds don’t include active noise cancellation, their ergonomic design ensures decent passive isolation.
When used in noisy environments, users still enjoy rich bass and clear highs, ideal for both music and voice calls.
With Bluetooth 5.3, audio transmission remains stable and low-latency, making them suitable for casual gaming or streaming videos without lag.
That consistency makes the buds especially appealing to users of mid-range smartphones like the HMD X20, which pair instantly and support the same low-energy Bluetooth protocols for extended battery life.
How They Compare to Other Budget Wireless Earbuds
The Amped Buds are entering a market already packed with value-focused offerings, yet they still manage to stand out.
Thanks to strategic design and Nokia-style simplicity, they don’t overwhelm users with unnecessary features. Instead, they focus on perfecting the essentials.
Comparison Table
| Feature | HMD Amped Buds | Xiaomi Redmi Buds 4 | Soundcore A20i |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (Estimated) | KES 4,500 – 5,500 | KES 6,000 | KES 5,000 |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.2 | 5.3 |
| ANC | No | Yes (basic ANC) | No |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | IPX4 | IPX5 |
| Battery Life | 30 hours (total) | 28 hours (total) | 28 hours (total) |
While some competitors offer ANC, they often cut corners in areas like battery life or Bluetooth stability. HMD focused on long-lasting performance and reliable sound, a smart move considering most budget ANC implementations are underwhelming.
Where the HMD Amped Buds Fit in the Bigger Picture
The launch of these earbuds reflects HMD’s broader ambition of building a complete hardware ecosystem.
Rather than just making smartphones, the brand is moving toward offering users a suite of accessories that function cohesively and affordably.
This strategy mirrors what legacy brands like Samsung and Apple have done.
HMD’s move is particularly important because it makes quality tech accessible to users in markets that are often overlooked by premium brands.
Moreover, the Amped Buds follow a growing global trend toward true wireless stereo (TWS) products, which have become the new standard for portable audio consumption (Wikipedia).
With their blend of simplicity, durability, and affordability, these buds also appeal to users transitioning from wired headphones or entry-level wearables.
The HMD Amped Buds are not trying to compete with high-end AirPods or Sony’s premium WF-series.
Instead, they offer a polished, well-rounded experience for users who want excellent value without sacrificing too much.
They’re perfect for commuting, casual listening, or pairing with budget and mid-tier HMD smartphones.
In short, if you’re already considering an HMD phone like the HMD X2, these earbuds are a natural companion.
They do what they promise and in today’s saturated market, that might be all you really need.
