Best wireless earbuds for Android

Apple users have the AirPods to cover their in-ear needs, but what wireless earbuds should Android users get? Thankfully, there are plenty of options available for them, too. Whether you’re an athlete, commuter, or general consumer, you’re bound to find something among our picks for the best wireless earbuds for Android.

Why is the Sony WF-1000XM5 the best pair of wireless Android earbuds for most people?

Stepping up from their predecessors, the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds offer an advanced noise canceling experience coupled with a sleeker, more comfortable design. At 25% smaller and 20% lighter than the WF-1000XM4, they promise a snug fit for longer listening periods without compromising on the IPX4 water-resistant feature.

Thanks to their remarkable ANC capabilities, ambient sounds like airplane engines and keyboard clicks will be a thing of the past. Paired with memory foam ear tips, these earbuds ensure enhanced passive isolation. And if you’re uncertain about the right fit, the free mobile app even has a test to guide you.

The Sony Headphones Connect app, compatible with both Android and iOS, not only offers audio passthrough and Sony’s state-of-the-art 360 Reality Audio but also allows listeners to customize their sound experience using the EQ module, presets and multiple listening modes. If bass isn’t your beat, easily tweak the in-app equalizer for crisper vocals and clearer instrumentals.

Multipoint connectivity is a standout addition, ensuring a seamless switch between two devices. In the unfortunate event of misplacing your earbuds, they can be tracked using the Google Find My Device app.

Sony delivers a trio of Bluetooth codecs, including the essential LDAC for Android devices. Operating on Bluetooth 5.3, these earbuds are future-proofed with LE Audio compatibility. With noise canceling on, they impress with a battery life of over nine hours, further extended by the accompanying case. And if you’re running low, a quick three-minute charge grants you an hour of uninterrupted music.

Durable, versatile, and superior in sound quality, the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds are the ideal companion for both casual listeners and audiophiles. If the search is on for a powerhouse in pocket-sized form, look no further than these exceptional earbuds.

The Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 3 perfects the basics

Bringing to the table a combination of rich sound quality, advanced noise canceling, and unique customization options, the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 sets itself apart as a top contender. Its standout feature? The Smart Control app allows you to create personalized listening modes corresponding to various locations. With the Sound Zones feature, you can map out frequent places, assigning specific noise canceling and EQ settings. Be it a bass boost at the gym or a serene ANC setting at the office, these earbuds adapt seamlessly.

Comfort and fit aren’t compromised either. The package includes four sizes of silicone ear tips, ensuring an optimal fit for every user. Alongside, you’ll find silicone wings, offering added stability while prioritizing comfort over a snug fit. Keeping up with its competitors, these earbuds also come with an IPX4 rating, perfect for workouts or unexpected rain showers.

On the sonic front, the earbuds impress with their crisp sound. While audiophiles may wish to adjust the EQ to enhance treble, the clarity remains uncompromised. The noise cancelation competes with or even surpasses, other top picks, making them the go-to choice for those looking to drown out ambient distractions. Battery life doesn’t disappoint either, clocking in at over five hours with ANC activated.

In terms of technical specifications, the Momentum True Wireless 3 raises the bar with support for the aptX Bluetooth codec, ensuring lag-free, top-notch audio for Android users. This is accompanied by the support for SBC and AAC codecs, ensuring iOS users aren’t left behind. Operating on Bluetooth 5.2 and bolstered with 24-bit audio support, these earbuds promise a comprehensive listening experience.

If personalization and adaptability top your priority list, the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 are the earbuds to invest in. Tailor your audio experience to every location, activity, and preference, all while enjoying pristine sound quality.

The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro is great for those already in the Samsung ecosystem

A walled garden can be a cozy place, and Samsung understands that well with the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro. Much like the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with an iPhone, these earbuds will slot in nicely if you already own a Samsung Galaxy smartphone.

Samsung-exclusive features include a variety of perks. Most notably, you get the Samsung Seamless Codec which improves upon the Samsung Scalable Codec. With the Seamless Codec, you can enjoy 24-bit audio transmitted to the Buds 2 Pro (OneUI 4.0+ software required). You can also take advantage of WirelessPowershare, which lets you charge the case atop a compatible Samsung device. It’s a bit of a gimmick but comes in handy when you’re in a bind. Pairing the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro with a compatible Samsung phone also opens the door for 360 Audio.

Non-Samsung Android phone owners can still use Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity along with the AAC and SBC codecs. No matter what OS you have, you can appreciate the buds’ IPX7 rating, making them some of the most water-resistant earphones on this list. The default sound follows our consumer target curve, with a slightly boosted sub-bass and bass response. Generally speaking, the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro will please most listeners.

Workout and enjoy music with the Jabra Elite 4

Whether you’re heading to the gym, watching videos, or streaming music from your Android phone, the Jabra Elite 4 is a great all-around pick for under $100. Sporting an IP55 rating, the Elite 4 easily keeps up with jogs and jaunts about town.

The impressively isolating earbuds render the ANC not as useful as some other ANC-equipped earbuds, but isolation doesn’t cost you any battery life, and the Elite 4 has that in spades. Plus, you can access the companion app, Sound+, to use HearThrough. Additionally, Sound+ has a competent equalizer, so the default good sound can be tailored to your taste.

The 5 hours, 5 minutes battery life (with ANC on) is enough for most single uses. Especially great for Android users is that the Jabra Elite 4 possesses aptX for better audio, a lower noise floor than standard SBC, and reduced latency when watching videos. Overall, the Jabra Elite 4 might not be the most exciting set of earbuds, but it’s so refined in execution that you can simply pick it up and go without hassle.

The Google Pixel Buds A-Series is smart value

If value is your main concern, then the best wireless earbuds for Android, in your case, would be the Google Pixel Buds A-Series. It makes sense that Buds by Google would integrate well within the Android ecosystem, and these do.

Though these earbuds aren’t fancy, you do get in-ear detection, touch controls, and a useful app with EQ presets. A lightweight build and comfortable fit mean that, while these may be more budget buds, they don’t “feel” cheap. You can even take advantage of the IPX4 rating to not worry about errant splashes or drips. Plus, Google Assistant is easy to access via voice commands or by pressing and holding the G logo on the buds, so seamless Android integration can be hands-free, too.

Two small pitfalls do exist, though. There’s only SBC and AAC Bluetooth codec support, and the Adaptive Sound feature instead of ANC can get distracting. Still, at this price, these earphones are a solid Android-tailored pick.

Should you get the Google Pixel Buds Pro instead of the Pixel Buds A-Series?

In our Google Pixel Buds Pro review, we note that this is Google’s first set of noise canceling earphones, and it’s a success with some drawbacks. Unlike the Pixel Buds A-Series, the Pixel Buds Pro earbuds lack concha wing tips that secure the buds to your ears. You get the same IPX4 rating as before, but the Pro model includes an IPX2-rated case. Other new features include better microphone quality and battery life. The Pixel Buds Pro earbuds last just over 7 hours with ANC on, two hours longer than the non-ANC A-Series.

So what’s the catch? Well, the Pixel Buds Pro costs $199 at Amazon, and this is more than what the A-Series costs ($94 at Amazon). You also get an oddly boosted bass response on the Pixel Buds Pro, which renders sub-bass notes about two times louder than mids. This can really hamper audio quality if you’re trying to hear higher-pitched vocals.

For those who want to try out the Google Translate integration feature, this is an advanced set of earbuds packed full of technology.

The Nothing Ear (2) are clearly inspired by AirPods Pro

Nothing’s third true wireless entry takes most of what the original Nothing Ear 1 does and goes for one better on the Nothing Ear (2). These buds are a little lighter and smaller and possess an improved IP rating of IP54 for the buds (or IP55 when they’re in the case). ANC, especially of low-pitched noise, is pretty effective, especially compared to the first Ear 1. It’s also no surprise that the stemmed buds bear some resemblance to Apple AirPods Pro, including squeezable stems for commands.

You’ll definitely want to take advantage of the various Nothing X app’s EQ options because, out of the box, these sound rather trebly to listen to. Squarely aiming at Android users, the Ear (2) supports not just the standard AAC and SBC codecs but also the LHDC 5.0 audio codec (not LDAC) to potentially transmit 24-bit/192kHz audio with Android. Besides that, for the price, it does most of what you want and scarcely much you don’t want.

The Sony WF-C500 is a reliable all-rounder

If you can’t decide what features matter most to you, don’t want to spend a lot, and can live without ANC, then the Sony WF-C500 is a good set of Android earbuds.

While you don’t get many fancy features, you do get an app with an EQ and 360 Reality Audio to enjoy on compatible streaming services. To make up for the lack of ANC, there’s also pretty good isolation. Tap controls let you start and stop your music and take calls without looking at your phone while letting you launch your voice assistant, too.

Again, there’s only support for SBC and AAC Bluetooth codecs, but that’s true of many more expensive options, too. Likewise, you still get an IPX4 rating, plus comfortable ear tips to enjoy your tunes throughout the day.

The best wireless earbuds for Android: Notable mentions

• Amazon Echo Buds (2nd Gen) ($119 at Amazon): These buds give you an ear tip fit test, which is always handy, ANC, and an IPX4 rating, but only average sound along with middling battery life. Still, they’re sleek and integrate with Android and your smart devices well via the Alexa app.
• Anker Soundcore Space A40 ($79 at Amazon): Anker supplies some premium features, including really excellent noise canceling, as well as LDAC codec support.
• Audio-Technica ATH-TWX9 ($299 at Amazon): These pricey buds supply you with a huge number of ear tips to get the right fit, a slightly bassy tuning, good noise canceling, and a solid case.
• Beats Fit Pro ($159 at Amazon): While this set of Beats suits iPhones, it works basically just as well with Android. It supplies a secure fit, good ANC, and a workout-friendly sound.
• Beats Studio Buds ($99 at Amazon): Yes, Apple owns Beats, but these Buds aren’t quite as exclusive to iPhones as the AirPods. The Studio Buds can quickly pair to Android devices and deliver enjoyable sound, so if you want fun, colorful buds, they slide in nicely within that niche.
• Beats Studio Buds Plus ($169 at Amazon): These updated Beats are designed to pair well with Android and Apple. They’re similar to the non-plus Studio Buds except with much better ANC, definitely worth a look.
• Bose QuietComfort Earbuds ($169 at Amazon): If you want good ANC at an accessible price point, then the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds make for a great option. These buds have automatic ear detection and other premium features like a solid mobile app.
• Bose Sport Earbuds ($165 at Amazon): These comfortable workout earbuds with auto play/pause and an active EQ are a good choice if you need earphones that stay firmly in place, thanks to their unique design.
• Grell Audio TWS 1 ($216.81 at Amazon): Audiophiles who want a to-go headset should get the TWS 1 from Grell Audio, the brainchild of the former Sennheiser chief headphone engineer. The frequency response very closely follows our target consumer curve, but sound quality isn’t the only thing this headset has going for it: it also has very effective noise canceling and software features.
• Jabra Elite 7 Active ($179 at Amazon): Match an IP57 rating, ANC (albeit not the best), and a battery life lasting over 7 hours. You only get AAC and SBC, however.
• Nothing Ear Stick ($99 at Nothing): If you want AirPods for Android and all the foibles that come with the unsealed fit, this one supplies you with a competent app and a nice price.
• Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 ($99 at Amazon): You get many of the same features as the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro at a cheaper price. The ANC isn’t as good here as on the Buds 2 Pro, but it can still hush the world around you. These buds are worth considering if you have a Galaxy device and want to stay within the ecosystem for less money.
• Sennheiser CX Plus True Wireless ($89 at Amazon): A solid all-rounder, these buds boast SBC, AAC, and aptX and a decent app along with ANC. These buds are bulkier than some compared to the non-ANC CX True Wireless, but they’re straightforward and sound good, too.
• Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 3 ($169 at Amazon): These noise canceling earbuds have even better ANC than the CX Plus True Wireless, and you get the same IPX4 rating as the more affordable model. What makes the Sennheiser MTW 3 stand out from the CX Plus is its support for aptX Adaptive and wireless charging case.
• Sony LinkBuds S ($148 at Amazon): These earbuds are understated. The active noise canceling is excellent, and the earbuds often go on promotion.
• TCL MOVEAUDIO S600 ($99 at Amazon): This AirPods Pro look-alike has a useful app and ANC. While noise canceling isn’t the best, it’s helpful to have, and you get an IP54 rating, so these buds can stand up to some pretty tough conditions. They only have SBC and AAC Bluetooth codec support, however, but you can often find the buds at a discount.

What you should know about Android earbuds

When buying wireless earbuds for your Android phone, you should keep a few things in mind. Here are the main features and design elements that deserve some scrutinizing prior to you hitting the “buy” button.

What are Bluetooth codecs, and which ones matter for Android?

A Bluetooth codec determines how your source device (smartphone) transmits audio to your wireless earbuds. To oversimplify it, a codec transforms digital signals in the device into wireless signals and then finally turns that back into sound in your headphones. If that sounds like a bit of an adventure, that’s because it is.

For that reason, it takes computing power and time to do all those tasks. As a result, latency may result where video and audio fall out of sync. And Android is particularly unreliable when it comes to latency. For all these reasons, it helps to pick headphones with aptX, LDAC, or Samsung Scalable codec support if you want visual and audible components to remain in step. Coincidentally, these are also the codecs to look for if you’re worried about sound quality over a Bluetooth connection.

These codecs are much more reliable on Android devices, but the last one only works with Samsung Galaxy devices. However, if you aren’t bothered by latency, then it likely won’t matter as much.

Why is the battery life so short for true wireless earbuds?

You may have noticed that all these wireless earbuds have rather limited battery life when compared to over-ear headphones, for instance. And unfortunately, that’s likely not going to change any time soon.

Physics, which governs all our lives, mandates that smaller batteries won’t last as long. Furthermore, that means earphones have a limited overall lifespan. For these reasons, manufacturers include charging cases with their true wireless earbuds. There’s not much you can do about that, but you can do some things to keep your battery as robust as possible.

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Frequently asked questions about wireless earbuds for Android