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Best wireless earbuds
True wireless earbuds have revolutionized personal audio since their inception. In 2024, the market offers an unprecedented range of high-quality options, from industry leaders like Apple, Sony, and Bose to innovative newcomers. With advanced features such as active noise canceling (ANC), seamless device integration, and AI-enhanced sound customization, today’s wireless earbuds are more than just audio devices—they’re smart wearables that complement our daily lives. Whether you’re an audiophile, fitness enthusiast, or busy professional, our guide to the best wireless earbuds will help you find the perfect pair for your needs and budget.
What's new?
- This list of the best wireless earbuds was updated on July 8, 2024, to add new top picks and notable mentions.
- If this list is too rich for your blood, check out our picks for the best wireless earbuds for under $100 or for under $50.
- Struggle to find the right fit? See our list of the best earbuds for small ears.
The best pair of wireless earbuds for most people are the Sony WF-1000XM5
The Sony WF-1000XM5 is a high-end set of earbuds that plays nicely on both Android phones and iPhones. These earbuds feature two new processors: the Integrated Processor V2 and the HD Noise Canceling Processor QN2e, allowing improved noise canceling performance, even at low frequencies. They also support SBC, AAC, and LDAC codecs and have a versatile app.
Sony provides four sets of memory foam ear tips, which effectively mold your ear canal and block out background noise better than their predecessors, the WF-1000XM4. Aside from making for a more comfortable fit, having the right size ear tips is necessary for a pair of ANC earbuds, as good isolation begets optimal noise cancelation.
The WF-1000XM5 is worth its premium price tag and is one of the best wireless earbuds you can buy.
The sound quality is quite good, too, though you’ll notice a slight over-emphasis in the mid-bass frequencies. Again, you can quickly fix this within the mobile app by lowering the bass and midrange response. You get plenty of listening time with over eight hours of continuous playback on a single charge and up to 24 hours with the charging case.
Anyone who wants a handsome pair of wireless earbuds with stellar active noise canceling, a reliable IPX4 rating, and advanced features like multipoint connectivity and spatial audio with head tracking should save up and shell out for these earbuds.
- Battery life: 9 hours and 32 minutes.
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 (SBC, AAC, LDAC, or LE Audio.) with Multipoint.
- Protected against: Water resistant (IPX4)
- Weight: 6g per earbud.
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Testing on our B&K 5128 artificial head reveals that the Sony WF-1000XM5’s frequency response barely deviates from our headphone preference curve, mainly at the low end (the left side of the chart). There is a noticeable emphasis between 30-300Hz.
The chart below shows how the sound of the Sony WF-1000XM5 was assessed by the Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Score (MDAQS) algorithm from HEAD Acoustics.
Sony puts a lot of engineering effort into its microphone quality, though the Sony WF-1000XM5 mics don’t hold a candle to those of the over-ear WH-1000XM5.
Take a listen to our standardized mic samples and vote in our mic poll below.
Sony WH-1000XM5 mic demo (Ideal conditions):
Sony WH-1000XM5 mic demo (Office conditions):
Sony WH-1000XM5 mic demo (Street conditions):
Sony WH-1000XM5 mic demo (Windy conditions):
If you want to see what other people are saying about these headphones, by all means, vote in the poll below. The results will display after you vote, and we can update our score after a certain number of votes are accumulated.
How does the microphone sound to you?
The decision to upgrade from the Sony WF-1000XM4 to the newer WF-1000XM5 really depends on your personal needs and preferences. In our detailed breakdown between the Sony WF-1000XM4 and WF-1000XM5, we found that the XM5 earbuds edge out the XM4 for ANC performance. However, if you’re looking for a significant upgrade in sound quality, you might not find it worth the additional cost, as the improvements in these areas aren’t substantial.
The WF-1000XM5 does offer improved comfort, with a design that fits more securely in the ear. If you’ve had issues with the WF-1000XM4 staying in your ears, this might be a compelling reason to consider the newer model.
That said, the WF-1000XM4 holds its own against modern flagships. The ANC and isolation are effective, and you get most of the same software features as the WF-1000XM5, making them the better bang for your buck.
The best earbuds for iPhone owners are the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen), now with USB-C
The AirPods Pro (2nd generation) has been revamped to include USB-C connectivity, aligning with Apple’s iPhone 15 models. This update comes with added perks like improved dust resistance, now boasting an IP54 rating, up from the original IPX4. Aside from that, the H2 chip still enables smooth switching between Apple devices, and the ear tips continue to provide a snug fit better fit than the standard AirPods, with great active noise canceling and playback controls built into the stem. Adaptive Transparency Mode uses microphones to amplify the sounds around you so you can hear your surroundings better.
iPhone owners are the only ones with any business buying the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen).
As for noise canceling, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) ANC performance is great. It will hush your surroundings significantly and render low-frequency rumbles anywhere from one-half to one-eighth of their original perceived loudness. Sound quality is very good, and while we wish there was an integrated custom EQ in the Apple Settings app, we don’t feel there’s much need for it. At least, most general listeners won’t feel compelled to change the sound because it really is that good by default. But if you listen to Apple Music, you can choose from numerous EQ presets.
The second-gen model has sliding touch controls (along with taps). We also like that the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd gen) case has a speaker on the bottom that will emit a sound to help you locate it. If you know your AirPods Pro is not in your current room or home but can’t remember where you placed it, open the Find My app to see a map with the case or buds’ last location.
If the AirPods Pro is a bit too rich for your blood, there are a handful of solid iPhone earbuds or AirPods Pro alternatives out there for iPhone and Android users alike. You can even snag the first-gen AirPods Pro for on the product's website.
- Battery life: 5 hours and 43 minutes with ANC on (up to 30 hours total with the charging case)
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 with support for SBC and AAC codecs
- Protected against: IPX4 water resistance rating for both earbuds and case
- Weight: 5.3g per earbud
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The chart below shows how the sound of the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) was assessed by the Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Score (MDAQS) algorithm from HEAD Acoustics.
The AirPods Pro’s mic system is very good for wireless earbuds, but its quality declines when there’s background noise.
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) microphone demo (Ideal conditions):
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) microphone demo (Office conditions):
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) microphone demo (Street conditions):
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) microphone demo (Windy conditions):
The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 have the best active noise canceling
The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 sets a new standard for active noise cancelation in true wireless earbuds. With an impressive 85.1% noise reduction, they surpass the typical ceiling of 83% seen in most high-end models. This exceptional ANC performance makes them ideal for blocking out ambient noise in various environments.
The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 is an unbelievably good set of true wireless earbuds that overcome some of the biggest hurdles the category has.
These earbuds excel in comfort and fit, ensuring optimal performance for both the drivers and ANC. The unique design allows for an easy, secure fit in most ear shapes, which is crucial for maintaining consistent sound quality and noise cancelation. This comfort also enables extended listening sessions without fatigue. Versatility is another strength of the Elite 10 Gen 2, as it has the rare ability to connect to wired sources via the charging case. This feature makes it exceptionally adaptable for various listening scenarios, from mobile devices to in-flight entertainment systems.
While the sound quality has some quirks, particularly a peak in the high frequencies, overall audio performance is solid and can be adjusted using the companion app’s EQ settings. The earbuds also boast useful features like spatial audio with head tracking, multipoint connectivity, and a sleep mode with built-in white noise options.
- Battery life: 5 hours and 27 minutes of playback with ANC on
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 with support for SBC, AAC, and LC3 codecs; can also connect to wired sources via 3.5mm or USB-C using the charging case as a transmitter
- Protected against: IP57 water and dust resistance
- Weight: 5.6g per earbud
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The response of the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 is a little bit odd, but not odd in the way that would be off-putting to most. The first deviation from our preference curve, the dip from 100 to 200Hz, will make some vocals a little softer than they should — making bass comparatively louder. However, it’s that peak at 7.2kHz that gets a bit grating over time. Because it’s so high, most people will perceive this as increased “detail” or room effects.
The chart below shows how the sound of the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 was assessed by the Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Score (MDAQS) algorithm from HEAD acoustics.
Jabra made its name on professional headsets, and no surprise: the Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 is absolutely loaded for this task with a 6-mic array. Below are samples we’ve collected in our lab.
Best wireless earbuds under $200: JBL Live Beam 3
The JBL Live Beam 3 offers a wealth of features in a compact design. Its smart case with a touch screen is a game-changer, providing quick access to functions like ANC control, EQ presets, and even notification previews.
With excellent sound quality, comfortable design, and advanced noise cancelation, these earbuds cater to tech enthusiasts and audio lovers alike. The Live Beam 3 also boasts high-quality codec support and a robust app for customization, making it a top choice for those who want cutting-edge features without compromising on audio performance.
- Battery life: 8 hours 14 minutes
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 (SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3)
- Water resistance: IP55
- Weight: 4.9g per earbud
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The JBL Live Beam 3’s sound is characterized by strong bass, emphasized highs, and some odd things going on in the upper bass. Though this is very much a consumer-friendly sound, it’s not exactly what you want for critical listening — which is not a problem for anyone looking at these earbuds.
The chart below shows how the sound of the JBL Live Beam 3 was assessed by the Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Score (MDAQS) algorithm from HEAD acoustics.
As the JBL Live Beam 3 is a set of earbuds meant to go with you everywhere, it’s no surprise that they have a mic array that will allow you to handle phone calls. Take a listen below:
JBL Live Beam 3 microphone demo (Ideal conditions):
Comfort is another strong point, thanks to the short, ovoid nozzles, though some users might need to experiment with different ear tip sizes for the best fit. JBL also offers three shapes and sizes of earbuds in their Live 3 Series, dubbed the Beam, Buds, and Flex. They have similar features and battery life but may fit you better, depending on your preference.
Best wireless earbuds under $150: Nothing Ear
The Nothing Ear are one of the best value true wireless earbuds. Despite their affordable $149 price tag, these earbuds pack in an impressive array of features that rival much pricier models.
For audio quality, the Nothing Ear shines with great sound clarity and an immersive soundstage thanks to their 11mm ceramic drivers. An advanced parametric EQ allows you to precisely tune the sound to your preferences. They also support high-quality LDAC and LHDC codecs for lossless wireless audio.
These earbuds are packed full of features that will please casual listeners and audiophiles alike.
The earbuds are super comfortable and lightweight at just 4.6g each. They have good active noise cancelation and an outstanding transparency mode. Battery life is solid at around 8 hours per charge, with quick USB-C and wireless charging available. Other helpful features include customizable touch controls, wear-detection sensors, and low-latency gaming modes. The companion app is easy to use and packed with customization options.
While the ANC could be stronger, the Nothing Ear’s overall performance and feature set make it an incredible value in the wireless earbud market. You get premium features and sound quality at a much lower price than flagship competitors.
- Battery life: 8 hours and 4 minutes of playback (up to 40 hours total with the charging case)
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 with support for LHDC 5.0, LDAC, AAC, and SBC codecs
- Protected against: IP54 rating for earbuds, IP55 for the charging case
- Weight: 4.6g per earbud
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As you can see in the chart above, the Nothing Ear has a default frequency response that amplifies low frequencies above our headphone preference curve. There is also a drop in output around 470Hz and a boost around 5.5kHz compared to our preference. You can easily equalize these variances using the advanced equalizer.
The chart below shows how the sound of the Nothing Ear was assessed by the Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Score (MDAQS) algorithm from HEAD acoustics.
he Nothing Ear has three mics and an AI noise reduction algorithm to suppress background noise. While voices sound slightly muffled, the background noise reduction algorithm is one of the best we’ve heard. No matter where you are, the person on the other end of the line should still be able to understand what you are saying, which is reassuring.
Nothing Ear microphone demo (Ideal conditions):
How does the microphone sound to you?
Best wireless earbuds under $100: Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC
For less than $100, you’d be hard-pressed to find earbuds that do most of the tasks the Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC promises. With an IPX4 rating, long battery life, and good ANC with additional wind reduction and adaptive noise canceling features, these earbuds have more features than most name-brands at this price.
Students and budget-conscious folks looking to get noise canceling at an affordable price will enjoy these.
The accompanying app gives you a whopping 22 EQ presets alongside a labeled eight-band equalizer so you can fine-tune your listening experience. Anker kitted out the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC with Bluetooth 5.3 and LDAC, AAC, and SBC codecs. Android users will likely get the most out of the LDAC codec. Meanwhile, iPhones will default to the AAC codec. Oh, and they also support Bluetooth multipoint, so you can simultaneously connect to more than one device.
For most people, the Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC are simply good, value-priced earbuds. They tick off most boxes, from the nearly 10 hours of battery life with ANC on to the responsive touch controls.
- Battery life: 9 hours and 53 minutes with ANC on (up to 50 hours total with the charging case)
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 with support for LDAC, AAC, and SBC codecs
- Protected against: IPX4 water resistance rating
- Weight: 5.7g per earbud
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The chart below shows how the sound of the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC was assessed by the Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Score (MDAQS) algorithm from HEAD Acoustics.
Anker uses six microphones and an AI algorithm for the Liberty 4 NC. The results are okay, although the buds do best with lower-pitched voices. Voices are intelligible, although, in ideal circumstances, the resolution doesn’t exactly impress; it’s totally fine.
Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC microphone demo (Ideal conditions):
The Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 are ready for the future
The Momentum True Wireless 4 are a solid contender in the world of ANC earbuds.
Notably, these earbuds support Auracast and LE Audio, two technologies poised to enhance wireless audio experiences soon. Additionally, the inclusion of the aptX Lossless audio codec ensures high-fidelity sound. The earbuds also offer an IP54 rating for resistance against dust and water, wireless charging capabilities, and a commendable ANC performance that effectively reduces environmental noise.
In short, these earbuds have some of the best sound quality and active noise canceling capabilities on the market. They are best suited for people with the money for a top-end product and the infrastructure (a brand-new Android phone, specifically) to fully enjoy higher-bitrate tunes.
- Battery life: 7 hours and 45 minutes
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.4 (SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive, aptX Lossless, or LC3 and LE Audio)
- Protected against: Water and dust resistant (IP54)
- Weight: 6.2g per earbud
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The chart below shows how the sound of the Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 was assessed by the Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Score (MDAQS) algorithm from HEAD Acoustics.
The Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 has a sufficient microphone for phone calls, but the mic performance is below what we’re used to for higher-tiered TWS earbuds. We found the speech quality highly variable, and environmental noise is not suppressed well or consistently.
Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 microphone demo (Ideal conditions):
How does the microphone sound to you?
Best for working out or running: Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 stands out as the premier choice for fitness enthusiasts seeking durable, feature-packed earbuds. These earbuds excel in both form and function, offering exceptional durability with an IP68 rating for the earbuds and IP54 for the case. The ShakeGrip coating ensures they stay put during intense workouts, while the comfortable design allows for extended wear.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 are excellent workout earbuds
Sound quality is impressive, with a bass-forward profile ideal for motivating workouts. The Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) effectively blocks out gym noise, reducing most environmental sounds by 80%. For outdoor runners, the adjustable HearThrough mode keeps you aware of your surroundings. The accompanying Jabra Sound+ app offers extensive customization options, including EQ adjustments and control customization.
A standout feature is the smart case’s ability to connect to wired sources, making these earbuds versatile beyond just workouts. With Bluetooth 5.3, multipoint connectivity, and Dolby Spatial Sound support, the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 offers a premium audio experience for both exercise and everyday use.
- Battery life: 9 hours 3 minutes
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 (SBC, AAC)
- Water resistance: IP68 (earbuds), IP54 (case)
- Weight: 5g per earbud
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As you can see, the earbuds under-emphasize low-mid frequencies from 200-500Hz compared to our target, which makes some vocals and pianos sound quieter than you might expect. There is also an under-emphasis in the high frequencies above 8kHz, and a relative over-emphasis in the sub-bass below 100Hz.
The chart below shows how the sound of the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 was assessed by the Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Score (MDAQS) algorithm from HEAD acoustics.
Best bass: Bose QuietComfort Ultra
If you find the typical cylindrical nozzle of earbuds uncomfortable, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, as the name suggests, offer a more comfortable alternative design. They may be chunky, but they feature an egg-shaped nozzle that sits more firmly in your ears. The sliding touch controls are more intuitive and avoid tapping gestures that can tend to push earbuds deeper into sensitive ear canals.
If you own a newer Android device, you may benefit from the revamped chipset of these earbuds. Namely, they offer Snapdragon Sound with aptX Lossless support, which purportedly provides Hi-Res audio using aptX Adaptive. This feature also allows low-latency listening and Google Fast Pair for source devices with a compatible processor. However, regardless of your device, you are going to need to install the Bose Music app in order to enjoy features like Immersive Audio, in-app EQ, firmware updates, and customizing the shortcut gesture.
If you’re using a new Android phone, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are unquestionably among the top options at this price point.
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds have some of the best ANC we’ve ever tested, silencing outside sounds under 400Hz by up to 34 dB. Soundwise, these earbuds will appeal to a specific type of listener: someone who wants strong bass and treble. If you like music that suits that profile, this shouldn’t be a problem – it’s just not for everyone, and too much low-end may rattle your skull.
Overall, these are definitely the best wireless earbuds from Bose to date, but they have strong competition between the other contenders on our list. For instance, the Sony WF-1000XM5 offers better tuning and mic quality for $50 less. And if you are an iPhone user, it’s still better to go with the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) due to its lower cost, better sound, and iOS-oriented features. Still, if you are a hardcore earbuds enthusiast who needs the top end of what’s available and has an up-to-date Android phone, you will likely be satisfied with the QuietComfort Ultra earbuds from Bose.
- Battery life: 6 hours and 11 minutes
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 (SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive, and Snapdragon Sound. LE Audio)
- Protected against: Water resistant (IPX4)
- Weight: 7.1g per earbud
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The chart below shows how the sound of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds was assessed by the Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Score (MDAQS) algorithm from HEAD Acoustics.
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds have a microphone array that performs well enough for phone calls. Listen to the standardized samples below if you’d like to hear how well the microphone performs in several common settings.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds microphone demo (Ideal conditions):
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds microphone demo (Office conditions):
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds microphone demo (Street conditions):
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds microphone demo (Windy conditions):
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
The best wireless earbuds: Notable mentions
- Audio-Technica ATH-TWX7 ($194.5 at Amazon): The mid-range offering from Audio-Technica has a short battery life, but otherwise, the ATH-TWX7 are a solid set of earbuds. These are a worthy buy if you are looking for a secure fit with good noise canceling.
- Beats Studio Buds Plus ($169 at Amazon): The Beats Studio Buds Plus are a competent, if slightly understated true wireless option for those who don’t want the AirPods Pro. Additionally, this Apple-owned product offers an alternative to the lollipop design of the AirPods earphones.
- Creative Aurvana Ace 2 ($149.99 at Amazon): If you are in the market for the best-sounding wireless earbuds, consider the Creative Aurvana Ace 2. The xMEMS driver system sounds excellent, and you can customize the sound using the Creative app. Combined with aptX Lossless support, these earbuds will pique the interest of many audiophiles.
- EarFun Free Pro 3 ($79.99 at Amazon): These are surprisingly decent entry-level wireless earbuds, especially in terms of their sound quality. The app is mature, and the price is very reasonable.
- Google Pixel Buds Pro ($137 at Walmart): Promising on paper, the Google Pixel Buds Pro brings active noise canceling and a redesigned earbud to the table. The case now sports an IPX2 water-resistant build to go with the buds’ IPX4 rating. The vastly improved battery life and noise canceling combined with the Google Assistant integration are the driving reasons to give this one a whirl.
- Jabra Elite 7 Active ($179 at Amazon): This is a great jack-of-all-trades headset that offers tons of customization options, rugged protection, good sound, and solid active noise canceling.
- JLab Epic Lab Edition ($199.99 at Amazon): The JLab Epic Lab Edition are the testbed for the latest generation of Knowles balanced armature drivers, and they make a compelling case. Great sound quality paired with most of the top-flight features we expect from high-end earbuds make this one of the best buys in the category.
- JLab Epic Air Sport ANC ($89 at Amazon): This set of buds directly competes against the Beats Powerbeats Pro and costs a heck of a lot less. You get pretty good ANC for the price and a consumer-friendly sound profile that you can change with the earbuds’ built-in EQ presets.
- Moondrop Space Travel ($24.99 at Amazon): If you’re looking for bang for your buck, it’s hard to do better than these earbuds. Though they don’t have much in the way of software features, the Moondrop Space Travel offers excellent audio quality and ANC for under $30.
- Master & Dynamic MW09 ($399 at Manufacturer site): Exceptional battery life and premium materials mean the Master & Dynamic MW09 is built to last a long time. You have to pay a pretty penny for these earbuds, but you’ll turn a few heads with the eye-catching design.
- Nothing Ear (a) ($99.99 at Nothing): If you have $100 to spend on earbuds, the Nothing Ear (a) are a good option. These jack-of-all-trades earbuds don’t excel in any particular way but also don’t have any major drawbacks.
- Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro ($179 at Amazon): If you own a Samsung Galaxy phone, these are the buds for you. You get exclusive features like the Samsung Seamless Codec and auto switching between Samsung devices, as well as great sound quality and excellent ANC.
- Sennheiser MOMENTUM Sport (on the product’s website): If you want biometric tracking built into your earbuds, the Sennheiser MOMENTUM Sport is the best option.
- Sony LinkBuds S ($148 at Amazon): Unlike the standard LinkBuds, the LinkBuds S features a traditional earbud design without donut holes. Noise canceling performance is close to the WF-1000XM4 and outperforms the previous Sony WF-1000XM3 flagship earbuds.
What you should know before you buy wireless earbuds
Users commonly cite connection issues with their true wireless earbuds, and companies have handled this in several different ways. Solutions range from tweaking Bluetooth to implementing completely new hardware.
All wireless headphones connect to your source device via Bluetooth. Typically, one earbud is the primary receiver, and the other is the secondary receiver. Rather than simultaneously send a signal to both earbuds, many smartphones send the signal to the primary, passing data along to the secondary one. This results in a split-second delay between the audio. Manufacturers account for this delay and calculate it into the playback. This way, the earbuds are synced up for playback, and you don’t notice a lag. Most likely, you’ll notice a delay when watching videos; the sound won’t match the person’s words. But you won’t be able to tell if you’re listening to podcasts or music.
Then you have something like the Apple AirPods, which handles the wireless issue a little differently. Apple’s H1 works alongside the regular Bluetooth chip. This dedicated chip helps make the pairing process smoother (if you’re on iOS). It establishes a stronger connection between the earbuds and the source device, resulting in significantly fewer skips. This is limited to Apple-owned hardware, like Beats products and the AirPods.
Android users are also getting new ways to improve wireless audio, such as Snapdragon Sound, which enables earbuds to play back lossless audio over Wi-Fi. If your phone has a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 or later processor and there’s a corresponding chipset in your headphones or earbuds, you can use the aptX Adaptive suite and the aptX Lossless codec. This is important because aptX Lossless is currently the first Bluetooth audio codec that can reportedly provide bit-exact CD-quality sound.
We’re witnessing a wireless epoch. It’s no longer niche or novel to listen completely untethered on your way to work. Technological advancements have lowered the financial barrier to entry, and cheap wireless options are readily available to budget listeners.
Wireless earbuds can still be for you if you don’t commute, especially if you like to exercise. Nothing’s more convenient than listening completely wire-free. There are many great wireless workout earbuds for runners and gym rats alike. Numerous companies have gone the extra mile by getting products officially IP certified, but they also integrate useful athletic features (e.g., ear hook design, silicone wing tips, Ambient Aware mode).
While it’s true that battery depletion is a problem, resulting in a shortened lifetime of wireless earbuds compared to their on-ear or over-ear headphone alternatives, you’re paying a premium for convenience. For some of us, it’s easy to justify the cost. Others may be better off with wired earbuds or dealing with bulkier wireless headphones.
How to choose the best wireless earbuds for you
With the vast array of wireless earbuds available, choosing the right pair can be daunting. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting the best wireless earbuds for your needs:
- Fit and Comfort: Proper fit is crucial for optimal sound quality and noise isolation. Look for earbuds that come with multiple ear tip sizes or offer a secure, customizable fit. Comfort is also essential, especially if you plan to wear them for extended periods.
- Sound Quality: Assess your audio preferences and prioritize earbuds with a sound signature that aligns with your taste. Review the frequency response and consider earbuds with customizable EQ settings if you prefer to fine-tune the sound.
- Noise Cancellation: If you plan to use your earbuds in noisy environments, active noise cancelation (ANC) can significantly improve your listening experience by reducing external sounds.
- Battery Life: Longer battery life translates to fewer interruptions and charges. Look for earbuds with at least 6-8 hours of playback time per charge, and consider the additional charges provided by the charging case.
- Connectivity and Codecs: Ensure the earbuds are compatible with your devices and support the latest Bluetooth standards and codecs (e.g., AAC, aptX, LDAC) for higher audio quality and stable connectivity.
- Water/Sweat Resistance: If you plan to use your earbuds during workouts or in humid conditions, look for an IP rating (e.g., IPX4, IPX7) that indicates the level of water and sweat resistance.
- Additional Features: Consider other features that may be important to you, such as wireless charging, touch controls, transparency mode, or voice assistant integration.
By evaluating these factors based on your specific needs and preferences, you can narrow down your options and choose the best wireless earbuds that provide an optimal listening experience.
Bluetooth Multipoint is a convenient feature that allows compatible headphones and earbuds to maintain simultaneous connections to multiple devices. This means you can seamlessly switch your audio source between, say, your laptop and smartphone without manually disconnecting from one before connecting to the other.
All the products highlighted in this article support Bluetooth Multipoint connectivity, enabling you to take calls on your phone while listening to music on your computer or easily switch between devices. Some top Bluetooth Multipoint options include the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones, Bose QuietComfort Ultra, Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 earbuds, and the affordable Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC.
While convenient, Bluetooth Multipoint does have some limitations like audio quality constraints when streaming from two sources simultaneously. For a deeper dive into how it works and its pros and cons, check out our full explainer on Bluetooth Multipoint.
What is isolation, and what is frequency response?
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When it comes to headphones, getting a proper seal is one of the best ways to make your music sound better. Some earbuds have active noise canceling, which uses tiny microphones to cancel outside noise, but not all options have this nifty feature. Instead, they rely purely on passive isolation or blocking sound just by physically being in your ear.
Then there’s frequency response. You can learn more about frequency response and why it affects how you hear your music here. We have developed our own headphone preference response curve as a guide to what we like to hear. In our charts, the pink line represents our preference curve, and the cyan line represents the product being reviewed. Many people like a bit of a bass frequency boost, but remember that too much of a bass boost can degrade sound quality.
How long do wireless earbuds last?
Generally speaking, the standalone battery life of wireless earbuds averages anywhere from three to six hours of battery life. Anything that falls above or below that is unusual. The charging cases typically provide an extra two to three charges, giving you at least 9 hours of total playtime.
As far as why battery life is so short on all wireless earbuds, you don’t have to dig too deep into it to get the reason why. Truly wireless earbuds are simply too small. Batteries still rely on physics, and it’s hard to stuff a battery into something so tiny, which is why they all come with cases that will charge up your headphones when they’re not in use. This is pretty bad for the environment, and there aren’t too many eco-friendly headsets to choose from.
What is a Bluetooth codec?
As with any nascent product category, early adopters will need to know a bit more about the tech that defines it. Namely, they need to know what to look for when deciding whether a product will be good or not. With Bluetooth audio, that means figuring out what Bluetooth codecs both their phone and their earbuds support.
As per our investigative testing, LDAC isn’t necessarily Hi-Res. What’s more, AAC is bunk when used on Android devices and should really only be used when listening via iPhone. If your Android phone automatically streams over AAC, you can always force developer settings to mandate SBC streaming instead. Android users, stick to aptX.
How we test wireless earbuds
Using a dummy head, product designers can test out how audio products will perform for most people — and so do we. We run a number of tests, including frequency response, isolation, and battery life. You can read more about it here and learn more about the specifics.
- For each product, we played several sine sweeps through the earphones. Once we arrived at a representative result, we logged the frequency response, demonstrating the hallmarks of a good acoustic seal.
- To test isolation, we play a sample of shaped noise at 90dB(SPL) (measured at the eardrum), once with the headphones off and another with the headphones on. We then subtract one measurement from the other.
- To test the battery, we use shaped noise and a real-time analyzer to find the setting needed to output consistent audio peaking at 75dB(SPL) from the products. We play our music test track on an infinite loop. This means every result can be directly compared.
These three basic tests cover the biggest areas of concern with wireless earbuds. Remember that your battery life will vary if you tend to crank the volume. Additionally, you could squeak out better isolation performance if you use third-party tips on your earbuds.
We try to get as much hands-on time with products as possible before declaring them one of the best. This means that the products on this list have been put through our full review process. We also spend hours browsing through forums and discussions within the audio community. Even if we’ve already reviewed a product, we do this to get as much of a birds-eye view of the landscape as possible.
Why you should trust SoundGuys
We’ve had our finger on the pulse of wireless earbuds since they hit the market. We pride ourselves on our ability to show our work and justify why we selected our picks. SoundGuys takes integrity very seriously.
Everything we recommend results from our objective measurements and great subjective experiences. Ultimately, we want you to enjoy your purchase or, at the very least, leave our site with a little more knowledge about the inner workings of audio.
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Frequently asked questions
No, wireless earbuds use Bluetooth technology for wireless connectivity. Bluetooth is the standard that allows wireless earbuds to connect to devices without cables.
Simply put, no, Raycons are not better than AirPods. In our review, we found the sound quality to be lacking, and there are just too many good and similarly priced true wireless earbuds to make the Raycon Everyday Earbuds worth buying.
Skullcandy is a decent budget brand for wireless earbuds and headphones. Still, they generally don’t match the audio quality and features of premium brands like Sony, Sennheiser, or Bose.
JBL tends to be the better brand compared to Skullcandy when it comes to audio quality and advanced features on their wireless earbuds and headphones. However, Skullcandy is a decent budget option.
Choosing the right wireless earbuds involves considering several key factors: compatibility, comfort, sound quality, battery life, and any special features like noise cancelation or water resistance. Look for earbuds that easily connect to your device and offer a stable connection, perhaps within the same ecosystem. Comfort is subjective, so consider the earbuds’ shape and the presence of different-sized tips. Sound quality can vary, so check out our reviews for notes on clarity, bass, and frequency response. Battery life is crucial for convenience, with 4-6 hours on average and the charging case providing additional charges. Finally, prioritize features important to you, such as active noise cancelation for travel or IP ratings for exercise.
A good pair of wireless earbuds typically costs between $100 and $400. This range includes options with high-quality sound, reliable connectivity, and additional features like noise cancelation and water resistance. While there are cheaper alternatives available, they might compromise on sound quality, battery life, or durability. Investing at least $100 or more will generally ensure a balance between performance and value.
In terms of product lifespan, most wireless earbuds generally do not last more than three or four years, primarily due to battery degradation. Over time, these batteries lose their ability to hold a charge, leading to reduced playback time and eventually making the earbuds unusable. While some models might offer slightly better longevity due to the build quality, the small form factor inherently restricts their overall lifespan. To maximize the lifespan of wireless earbuds, it’s important to follow best practices for battery care, such as not exposing them to extreme temperatures and avoiding letting the battery fully deplete regularly.
We have an entire article detailing the lifespan of true wireless earbuds’ batteries (spoiler: wireless earbud batteries only last a couple of years with daily use). Wireless headphone batteries are much larger, so you don’t need to charge them as frequently. Since you’re not subjecting wireless headphone batteries to the same daily charge-and-deplete cycle that you do with wireless earbuds, they degrade much slower. In other words, wireless headphone batteries last significantly longer than their wireless in-ear counterparts.
Wireless headphones usually have the added advantage of wired playback. This means that even when the battery fully degrades, you can still connect it to your device’s headphone jack and audio media playback.
This answer is constantly changing, but the JLab Epic Air Sport ANC lasts a whopping 15 hours and 31 minutes on a single charge.
Deciding which headset is better depends on quite a few factors. iPhone users will benefit more from the Apple AirPods due to H1 chip integration, which affords hands-free access to Siri, easy iOS device switching, audio sharing, and more. The same can be said for the Pixel Buds A-Series. Google’s earbuds provide a more seamless experience on Android than iOS. Both work with their opposing platform, though. The Google Pixel Buds (2020) provide a better fit, but the AirPods keep you more aware of your surroundings. Still, Google enables environmental awareness via the spatial vents on the bottom of each earbud. We have an in-depth Google Pixel Buds A-Series vs Apple AirPods article that goes into much greater detail on the matter.