Wired headphones have had their time and as tech advances, fewer users are opting for annoying corded headphones for work or play. In recent years, wireless earbuds have taken the market by storm, allowing people to listen to music, podcasts and audiobooks on the go without being physically wired to a phone, laptop, or other portable device. Discover the top wireless earbuds worth considering.
1. Sony WF-1000XM5
The Sony WF-1000XM5 is one of the top choices for those seeking high-quality sound and exceptional noise cancellation. These earbuds use advanced technology to reduce ambient noise, allowing listeners to enjoy crisp, detailed audio across a wide range of frequencies.
The WF-1000XM5 offers up to eight hours of battery life, with an additional 16 hours through the charging case, making them perfect for extended use. They feature comfortable, ergonomic ear tips for a secure fit and customizable sound settings via the Sony Headphones Connect app, which lets users tailor their audio experience to personal preferences.
2. Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)
Ideal for iPhone users, the AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) stands out with its seamless integration into the Apple ecosystem, making device switching effortless. These earbuds deliver excellent active noise cancellation (ANC), adaptive transparency, and spatial audio for an immersive listening experience.
Equipped with a MagSafe-compatible charging case, they offer up to 30 hours of listening time, while the earbuds alone provide about six hours per charge. The new Personalized Spatial Audio feature customizes sound based on ear shape, creating a more personal, three-dimensional sound. Touch controls on the stem add convenience for volume and playback adjustments.
3. Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro
For Samsung Galaxy users, the Galaxy Buds2 Pro offers smooth connectivity, superb sound quality, and effective noise cancellation. These earbuds are lightweight and have an ergonomic design that ensures a secure fit, even during physical activities. Their 24-bit Hi-Fi audio support enhances sound clarity, while ANC efficiently blocks background noise.
The Galaxy Buds2 Pro also includes an ambient sound mode for better awareness of surroundings, which is great for commuting or exercising outdoors. With five hours of battery life (or 18 hours with the case) and fast wireless charging, they offer the convenience Samsung users appreciate.
4. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds prioritize comfort and superior ANC, making them ideal for frequent travelers and office use. Bose’s world-class noise-cancellation technology eliminates distracting sounds, allowing users to focus on their audio or calls. The earbuds offer customizable sound profiles, allowing users to fine-tune their listening experience based on preference or genre.
The charging case provides an additional 12 hours of battery life on top of the six hours offered by the earbuds. They are designed for all-day comfort, with soft silicone tips that stay secure without causing discomfort, making them suitable for extended wear.
5. Google Pixel Buds Pro
Google Pixel Buds Pro is an excellent choice for Android users, especially those using Pixel devices. They feature active noise cancellation, which effectively minimizes background sounds. Additionally, the buds offer transparency mode, allowing external sounds to come through when needed.
The Pixel Buds Pro has an impressive 11-hour battery life (7 hours with ANC), and with the charging case, they last up to 31 hours. Customizable settings in the Pixel Buds app allow users to adjust EQ settings, bass, and touch controls. Their IPX4 water resistance rating also makes them suitable for light workouts or outdoor use.
6. Technics EAH-AZ80
The Technics EAH-AZ80 combines stylish design with top-notch audio quality, aimed at audiophiles seeking premium sound. With an advanced ANC system, these earbuds allow users to fully immerse in music without distraction. The earbuds support LDAC for high-resolution audio streaming, delivering clear, detailed sound.
The battery lasts around seven hours, with an extra 24 hours from the charging case. Technics EAH-AZ80 earbuds offer multi-point Bluetooth connectivity, so users can connect two devices simultaneously. Comfortable and secure, they’re perfect for anyone who appreciates refined audio quality and needs versatile connectivity for use across different devices.
7. Jabra Elite 7 Pro
The Jabra Elite 7 Pro earbuds are ideal for active individuals who prioritize call quality and durability. Equipped with Jabra’s MultiSensor Voice technology, these earbuds enhance voice clarity, even in windy or noisy environments, making them ideal for calls on the go. Their ANC and HearThrough modes allow users to either block out or tune into their surroundings.
With up to eight hours of playback and a total of 30 hours with the case, the Elite 7 Pro has impressive battery life. They are also IP57-rated for dust and water resistance, making them gym and travel-friendly.
8. Beats Fit Pro
The Beats Fit Pro offers a secure, comfortable fit, especially suited for athletes and active users. With flexible wing tips, these earbuds stay firmly in place during intense workouts. They provide immersive sound through spatial audio and effective noise cancellation to enhance listening.
The earbuds have an Adaptive EQ that adjusts audio based on fit, making sure that sound quality remains consistent. These earbuds integrate seamlessly with Apple devices, leveraging features like one-tap pairing and hands-free Siri. The Fit Pro offers up to six hours of listening time, and with the charging case, a total of 24 hours.
9. Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3
The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 earbuds are a premium choice for audio enthusiasts who value sound quality above all. These earbuds offer rich, dynamic sound with deep bass and well-balanced mids and highs, making them ideal for music lovers. Equipped with Adaptive Noise Cancellation, they adjust automatically to external sounds, allowing listeners to focus on their audio in various settings.
With seven hours of battery life and an additional 21 hours from the case, they’re reliable for extended listening. Their customizable touch controls and support for high-resolution codecs ensure an enjoyable, high-fidelity listening experience.
10. Anker Soundcore Liberty Air 2 Pro
The Anker Soundcore Liberty Air 2 Pro provides an affordable option for those seeking quality sound and ANC on a budget. These earbuds deliver impressive sound quality, with customizable EQ settings through the Soundcore app. The ANC technology is effective, and the transparency mode allows ambient sound when needed.
They provide seven hours of listening time on a single charge, and the case extends this to 26 hours. For a budget model, they offer reliable performance, great sound, and a comfortable fit, making them a strong contender in the wireless earbud market.
How to Choose the Best Wireless Earbuds
There is an overwhelming number of wireless earbuds to choose from. Here are some features that you should consider:
Battery Life
When buying earbuds, you should consider how long the battery lasts on a single charge. Most earbuds have a battery life of at least 4 to 7 hours, which can be extended if it has a charging case. Check if the earbuds come with a charging case or whether one has to be purchased separately.
Sound and Audio Quality
Explore options with customization settings that allow users to create sound profiles depending on their hearing profile and music genre preferences. There is more to sound than just how loud it is, so look for an earbud with balanced audio and clear voice calls.
Comfortable Fit
Most users prefer comfortable earbuds with a small fit that will not fall out. Some earbuds come with multiple silicon tips of different sizes, allowing the wearer to pick a tip with a good fit. You should also check if the earbuds are water or sweat-resistant, especially if you’re planning on wearing them while working out.
Noise Cancelling
If you are looking for more advanced earbuds with noise cancellation and adaptive EQ, you should expect to pay more. These features help block external distractions so that you can focus on the podcast, music, or call.
Learn More About The Best Wireless Earbuds
If you like listening to music during workout sessions or while on the go, then you understand how useful wireless earbuds are. Before buying a specific brand of earbuds, compare several brands based on the features – including price point – that are important to you. If you’ve got your heart set on a pair that’s slightly above your budget, keep an eye out for sales in your local store or online.
