In a move set to shake up the budget audio market, Oppo has officially launched the Enco Air 4i, its most affordable wireless earphones to date. Priced at just $49, the sleek earbuds promise premium features without the premium price tag, targeting students, commuters, and casual listeners looking for reliable sound on a budget.
A New Contender in the Budget Segment
Oppo, known for balancing innovation with affordability, has carved a niche in the crowded wireless earbuds space. The Enco Air 4i follows the success of last year’s Enco Air 3i, which earned praise for its crisp audio and ergonomic design. The new model retains its predecessor’s lightweight build but adds upgraded noise cancellation, IPX5 water resistance, and a longer 28-hour total battery life with the charging case.
“The Enco Air 4i is designed for users who refuse to compromise on quality, even at an accessible price point,” said Oppo’s audio product manager, Li Wei, during the virtual launch event. “We’re bringing features typically reserved for higher-end models into the hands of everyday consumers.”
Competition Heats Up in the Audio Wars
The budget audio segment is fiercely competitive, with brands like Xiaomi, Realme, and Huawei vying for dominance. Just last month, Huawei redefined its audio experience with the launch of its FreeBuds 6 series, emphasizing AI-driven sound customization. Meanwhile, Apple’s rumored Powerbeats Pro 2 has fitness enthusiasts buzzing about potential upgrades to its sport-focused design.
Amid this rivalry, Oppo’s strategy focuses on simplicity and accessibility. The Enco Air 4i supports Bluetooth 5.3 for stable connectivity, touch controls for playback, and a “BassWave” feature that enhances low frequencies—a common pain point in budget earbuds. Early reviewers have praised its balanced sound profile, though audiophiles may still lean toward pricier alternatives.
Design and User Experience
The earbuds sport a semi-in-ear design, reducing fatigue during long listening sessions, and the case is notably compact—a perk for pocket-friendly portability. Oppo claims the 10mm dynamic drivers deliver “studio-level clarity,” and the dual-microphone setup improves call quality in noisy environments.
At $49, the Enco Air 4i undercuts rivals like the Redmi Buds 5 and Realme Buds Air 6 by roughly 20%, making it an attractive entry-level option. However, it lacks wireless charging and multi-device pairing, features reserved for Oppo’s premium Enco X3 lineup.
Availability and Final Thoughts
The Enco Air 4i will debut in Asia and Europe starting March 15, with a global rollout expected by late April. For now, Oppo seems poised to dominate the sub-$50 category, offering a compelling mix of style, durability, and performance.
As the battle for budget-conscious ears intensifies, consumers win with more choices than ever. Whether you’re upgrading from wired headphones or seeking a backup pair, the Enco Air 4i is worth a closer look.
Pre-order the Oppo Enco Air 4i today on Amazon to secure early-bird discounts.
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