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Key Highlights
- Hybrid audio system combines a Knowles-developed balanced armature driver with a dual-fold dynamic driver.
- Intelligent Noise Cancellation 2.0 offers up to 60dB of noise reduction, according to vivo.
- Supports LDAC audio transmission at up to 990kbps and features an independent Hi-Fi DAC.
- Battery life is rated at up to 11 hours per charge and 50 hours with the charging case, with ANC disabled.
- Features wireless charging, multipoint connectivity for three devices and IP54-rated earbuds.
Vivo has launched the Buds Ultra true wireless stereo (TWS) earbuds in Europe, bringing its hybrid-driver audio system, high-resolution Bluetooth audio support and active noise cancellation to the regional market.
The Buds Ultra appear to be the European counterpart of the vivo TWS 5 Pro, which debuted in China in June 2026. The European model combines a balanced armature driver with a dual-fold dynamic driver, alongside noise cancellation rated at up to 60dB and a claimed total battery life of 50 hours with the charging case.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Vivo |
| Model | Buds Ultra |
| Launch market | Europe |
| Driver setup | Hybrid balanced armature + dual-fold dynamic driver |
| Frequency response | 16Hz–60kHz |
| Audio codec | LDAC, up to 990kbps |
| DAC | Independent Hi-Fi DAC, 113dB dynamic range |
| Noise cancellation | Intelligent Noise Cancellation 2.0, up to 60dB |
| Microphones | Four for ANC; three microphones plus bone conduction sensor for calls |
| Battery life | Up to 11 hours per charge; 50 hours with case, ANC off |
| Fast charging | Five minutes for up to two hours of music |
| Case charging | Wireless charging supported |
| Durability | IP54 for earbuds; case not rated |
| Connectivity | Multipoint connection for up to three devices |
| Audio features | Spatial audio, 10-band EQ, personalised hearing profiles |
| Controls | Pressure-sensitive controls and swipe gestures |
| Colours | Glacier White, Cosmic Black |
| Price | €199; promotional price €169 in Spain and Portugal |
Design and Build
The vivo Buds Ultra are in-ear wireless earbuds available in Glacier White and Cosmic Black. Their pressure-sensitive controls support taps and swipes for playback, calls, volume and noise-control adjustments.
The earbuds carry an IP54 rating for dust resistance and protection against water splashes. This makes them suitable for everyday commuting and workouts, subject to normal usage conditions. The charging case is not covered by the same rating, so it should be kept away from water.
Audio Quality and Dual-Driver System
The Buds Ultra use a hybrid driver arrangement that pairs a compact balanced armature driver co-developed with Knowles with a dual-fold dynamic driver developed by vivo. The balanced armature unit is positioned in the centre of the dynamic driver’s diaphragm, while a dedicated acoustic tube separates high- and low-frequency signals.
This design is intended to combine vocal and treble detail with fuller bass reproduction. An independent Hi-Fi DAC with a claimed 113dB dynamic range handles audio conversion, while LDAC support enables compatible devices to transmit audio at up to 990kbps.
The stated 16Hz–60kHz frequency response describes the supported acoustic range, not a guarantee that listeners will hear every frequency or perceive better sound quality. Actual results will depend on fit, source material, playback settings and individual hearing. Independent listening tests would be needed to establish how the earbuds compare with competing models.
Active Noise Cancellation
vivo’s Intelligent Noise Cancellation 2.0 uses four microphones, comprising two digital and two analogue microphones, to analyse surrounding noise. The company claims up to 60dB of noise reduction, with an average figure of 28dB across a bandwidth of 5,500Hz.
The maximum figure is a laboratory claim rather than a promise that all everyday sounds will be reduced by 60dB. The actual effect can vary with ear shape, ear-tip fit and the surrounding noise.
An Adaptive mode is designed to balance noise cancellation and transparency automatically. Dedicated modes for aeroplanes, subways and buses also target common commuting environments. For calls, a bone conduction sensor works with three microphones, with vivo claiming up to 99% wind-noise reduction under its test conditions.
Battery and Charging
The Buds Ultra are rated for up to 11 hours of music playback from the earbuds and up to 50 hours with the charging case, with ANC disabled. A five-minute charge is claimed to provide up to two hours of playback.
The case also supports wireless charging, allowing users to recharge it on a compatible charging pad without connecting a cable. Battery performance will vary with ANC usage, volume, codec, audio settings and listening habits, so playback time with noise cancellation enabled should be lower than the headline figure.
Software, Connectivity and Special Features
The earbuds support simultaneous connections to up to three devices, making it easier to switch between compatible phones, tablets and computers. Their features also include spatial audio modes called Theater, Concert Hall, Studio and Concert, a 10-band equaliser, personalised hearing profiles, remote camera control and an earbud-finding function.
Some controls and features require a compatible vivo phone. On other Android devices, vivo’s vEarphones app is required for supported settings and audio customisation. LDAC also depends on compatible source hardware and software; its availability should not be assumed on every phone.
Price and Availability
The vivo Buds Ultra comes in Glacier White and Cosmic Black, and they’re priced at €199. That said, they’re currently discounted to €169 in vivo’s official online stores in Spain and Portugal.
- Related vivo TWS 5 Pro launched at CNY 999 in china.
vivo has not confirmed whether the Buds Ultra will launch in India or other markets outside the currently announced European availability.
Competition and Alternatives
The Buds Ultra’s main selling points are their hybrid-driver architecture, LDAC support, claimed 60dB noise cancellation, three-device connectivity and wireless charging. At €169–€199, buyers should also compare them with the Sony WF-1000XM5 and other premium noise-cancelling earbuds available in their country.
Sony’s model is worth considering for buyers who prioritise an established noise-cancellation and audio product line. However, the better purchase will depend on current local prices, comfort, device compatibility and independent sound and ANC tests. The Buds Ultra’s headline specifications alone do not establish that they outperform their rivals.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Hybrid driver setup with a Knowles-developed balanced armature.
- LDAC support and a dedicated Hi-Fi DAC.
- Up to 50 hours of claimed total battery life with ANC off.
- Wireless charging and multipoint connectivity for three devices.
- Adaptive and transport-specific noise-cancellation modes.
Cons
- The maximum ANC and wind-noise figures are manufacturer claims, not independent test results.
- The headline battery rating is measured with ANC disabled.
- Some features depend on compatible vivo phones or the vEarphones app.
- The charging case has no stated IP54 protection.
- India availability and pricing remain unconfirmed.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the vivo Buds Ultra?
The vivo Buds Ultra are worth considering for buyers seeking feature-rich wireless earbuds with a hybrid driver system, LDAC support, wireless charging and flexible device connectivity. Their claimed 50-hour total battery life is also useful for frequent travellers, although the figure assumes ANC is switched off.
The promotional €169 price makes them more appealing than the standard €199 listing, but their real value depends on comfort, noise cancellation and sound quality in independent testing. Buyers should also check whether the features they want work fully with their existing phone.
Best for: Listeners who want LDAC, configurable audio, multipoint connectivity and long claimed battery life.
Consider alternatives if: You need proven independent ANC performance, a charging case with water resistance or guaranteed compatibility with every advanced feature on a non-vivo phone.
Bottom line: The vivo Buds Ultra offer a strong specification sheet, but independent testing and local pricing will determine whether they are among the best options in their price range.
FAQs
What is the price of the vivo Buds Ultra in Europe?
The official price is €199. vivo’s Spanish and Portuguese online stores.
Do the vivo Buds Ultra support active noise cancellation?
Yes. Intelligent Noise Cancellation 2.0 is rated by vivo for up to 60dB of noise reduction, although real-world performance varies.
How long does the vivo Buds Ultra battery last?
vivo claims up to 11 hours from the earbuds and 50 hours with the charging case, with ANC disabled.
Are the vivo Buds Ultra coming to India?
An India launch date and price have not been announced.
Are the vivo Buds Ultra the same as the vivo TWS 5 Pro?
They appear to be the European counterpart of the Vivo TWS 5 Pro launched in China in June 2026. Buyers should check the regional product specifications for any market-specific differences.
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