Huawei FreeBuds SE 4 ANC Launch With Noise Cancellation, 50h Battery, And IP54 Durability

Huawei has quietly launched the FreeBuds SE 4 ANC, introducing active noise cancellation (ANC) to its SE series for the first time. While the release lacked major fanfare, the earbuds themselves bring a notable upgrade for budget-conscious consumers seeking premium features.

The FreeBuds SE 4 ANC include three noise-canceling modes—Ultra, General, and Cozy—capable of reducing ambient noise by up to 24dB. To enhance call quality, Huawei equipped the earbuds with three microphones that use directional pickup to filter out background sounds.

In terms of audio, the earbuds rely on a 10mm driver with a standard 20Hz–20kHz frequency response. Designed using data from over 10,000 ear canals, they are shaped for comfort and come with three sizes of silicone ear tips. The stem-style design closely resembles Apple’s AirPods, highlighting a familiar look for users.

Each earbud weighs 4.3 grams and carries a 41mAh battery, delivering up to 7 hours of playback with ANC enabled or 10 hours without ANC. Combined with the charging case, total playback can reach 50 hours, which is one of the strongest battery performances in this segment. Durability is also a focus: Huawei claims the earbuds passed 26 different tests, including a 1.8-meter drop test and trials under significant temperature variations.

Connectivity is powered by Bluetooth 5.4, offering stable pairing and improved efficiency. On Huawei smartphones, users benefit from proximity pairing, making setup seamless. Additional features include touch controls for managing music, calls, and voice assistants. With an IP54 rating, the FreeBuds SE 4 ANC are protected against dust and splashes, making them suitable for daily use and light outdoor activity.

The earbuds will be available in black or white finishes, continuing the brand’s minimalist design language. While Huawei has not yet confirmed pricing, the previous-generation FreeBuds SE 3 launched in China at 199 yuan (around $27 USD), suggesting the new ANC-equipped model could remain in the affordable range while offering significantly enhanced features.

With the introduction of ANC, extended battery life, and durability certifications, the FreeBuds SE 4 ANC mark a clear step forward for Huawei’s budget earbud lineup. The addition of Bluetooth 5.4, IP54 protection, and customizable ear tips further strengthen their appeal, positioning them as an accessible yet capable option in the global wireless earbud market.

Filed in Audio. Read more about Audio, Earphones and Huawei.