Review: HUAWEI FreeBuds Lipstick, bluetooth earbuds in a charging case that looks like a… lipstick

I’ve been using the HUAWEI FreeBuds 4 earbuds since it launched last year, and it’s given me one of the consistently best sounds in a pair of earphones. It has an open-fit design with Active Noise Cancellation, and is very comfortable to wear — especially for long periods of time. The new FreeBuds Lipstick has this same shape, design and technology, which makes it an instant winner for me in terms of audio quality; but what really stands out with this pair, is the charging case that resembles the packaging of a lipstick.

Above: The HUAWEI FreeBuds Lipstick case feels solid and is compact.

In the hand, the case feels solid, well-made and expensive; there’s some weight to it which isn’t a bad thing, and it has a cap that snaps on with magnets. The earbuds come in a classic red, completing the entire look and concept of a “lipstick”, and they sit within the case securely, and also snap in via magnets.

Above: The earbuds snap into the case easily via magnets.

I really do like the “tube-like” shape of the case, which makes it convenient to just pop into my bag or pocket and take everywhere I go. It’s also a really stunning gadget when you see it in person; I know this because not only do I really like it (it’s different from all other earphones I have), every friend who has seen me take this out now wants one.

Above: The HUAWEI FreeBuds Lipstick (image courtesy Huawei).

And surprisingly for something that looks this good, it pumps out the same loud and clear sound that the FreeBuds 4 delivers. It’s only downside is that the charging case doesn’t support wireless Qi charging, and instead you have to plug in a USB-C cable to charge it up. But for a case this stunning, everyone will overlook that.

Above: The HUAWEI FreeBuds Lipstick box.

What’s really extra is that the earbuds come in a scented box — but the scent is really only on the box packaging and fades over time. A nice touch to the most covetable pair of earbuds to launch this quarter. 

The HUAWEI FreeBuds Lipstick is available on HUAWEI’s official stores on Lazada and SHOPEE, and priced at $268.