How to change the ANC mode on Xiaomi headphones - Complete guide

Active noise cancellation is one of those features that really improves listening comfort. Xiaomi uses it in many of its models, so users can adjust how strongly sounds are suppressed depending on their surroundings. Still, not everyone knows that the earbuds offer several ANC modes and that you can switch between them in just a few seconds. This guide walks you through the process step by step, explaining how to use the feature and how to choose the right mode for each situation.

What ANC is in Xiaomi earbuds

ANC analyzes the noise coming from outside and creates an opposite signal that neutralizes it. Thanks to this, it gets quieter in your ears and the music sounds clearer. Xiaomi uses several levels of reduction, so you can adjust how it works exactly to the place you are in.

You will most often find these variants:

• High ANC level – best for public transport or places with strong, constant noise.

• Medium ANC level – ideal for work, a café or a walk.

• Low ANC level – lighter noise suppression and longer battery life.

• Adaptive mode – the earbuds decide themselves how much noise to cancel.

• Transparency mode – lets outside sounds through so you can talk and hear what’s happening around you.

Once you know how the modes differ, it becomes easier to understand when to use them and how to switch between them comfortably.

How to change ANC mode using gestures on the earbuds

On most Xiaomi models this works almost the same way. You use the touch panel on one of the earbuds.

1. Put the earbuds in your ears and make sure they are connected to your phone.

2. Touch and hold the touch panel on the left or right earbud for about 1–2 seconds.

3. You will hear a short tone or voice prompt confirming that the mode has changed.

4. Repeat this gesture to cycle through the available modes, most often: ANC → Transparency → Normal.

In the app you can choose which modes are available under this gesture. If you do not want to use the normal mode, you can disable it and leave only ANC and transparency.

ANC in the Xiaomi Earbuds / Mi Buds M8 app

For many people this way is more convenient, because it gives full control over the function.

1. Install the app

Download Xiaomi Earbuds or Mi Buds M8 from your app store. Pair the earbuds with your phone and open their panel in the app.

2. Go to ANC settings

There you will find a list of available modes. Depending on the model, this may be High, Medium, Low, Adaptive or Transparency.

3. Choose a mode with a single tap

After selecting an option, the earbuds will respond immediately with a short sound.

4. Configure how it works to suit you

In the app you can adjust gesture actions, change ANC intensity or the order of available modes. If you want full automation, set adaptive mode as the default. If you travel a lot, the high level will be the most practical.

When to use each mode – practical examples

When you use ANC modes, it’s worth matching them to your surroundings. When working in an office or at home the medium level works best, because it provides quiet but does not completely cut you off from the sounds around you. On busy streets the high ANC level is more effective, helping you to focus on music or calls. While running or walking it is better to choose transparency mode, which lets you stay aware of your surroundings and improves safety.

During a flight or train journey the high ANC level is the most effective, as it handles steady background noise very well. In very quiet places the low ANC level is enough, because it gently reduces noise while saving battery power. Over time you will naturally start choosing the settings that best fit each situation.

What to do if ANC works poorly

If you feel that the earbuds are cancelling less noise than before, it is usually caused by simple issues that are easy to fix:

• Wrong ear tips – if the earbuds do not seal properly, ANC will not work as it should.

• No updates – check in the app if there is a new firmware version.

• Dirty microphones – dust and moisture can reduce the effectiveness of noise cancellation.

• Modes disabled in the app – sometimes you just need to re-enable your preferred mode.

Xiaomi earbuds with ANC available at Mi Home

In the Mi Home range you will find many Xiaomi models equipped with active noise cancellation, including Xiaomi Buds 5 , as well as popular models from the Redmi Buds series, such as Redmi Buds 4 or Redmi Buds 6 Lite . Each of them offers different ANC levels, so you can tailor the noise reduction to your environment – from intensive suppression during travel to gentler reduction perfect for everyday use.

Your music always sounds better

Changing ANC mode on Xiaomi earbuds is really simple. You can do it with a gesture on the earbud or with a single tap in the app. Each mode has a different purpose, so it is worth knowing how they work and using them in the right situations. This way the earbuds become more comfortable, and everyday music listening, watching movies or working in noisy environments becomes much more enjoyable.