Are you tired of tangled wires and poor sound quality from your old headphones? You’re not alone. Many people struggle to find the perfect pair of wireless earbuds that fit well and sound great.
The best wireless earbuds can solve these problems and more.
Did you know that the global wireless earbuds market is expected to reach $14.9 billion by 2026? That’s a lot of people looking for better audio solutions. This article will guide you through the top wireless earbuds and headphones available today.
We’ll cover key features, pros and cons, and help you find the perfect pair for your needs. Ready to upgrade your audio experience?
Key Factors in Choosing Wireless Earbuds
Picking the right wireless earbuds can be tricky. There are many things to think about before you buy. Let’s look at what matters most when choosing your next pair.
Fit and Comfort
Fit and comfort are key for wireless earbuds. They need to stay put and feel good, even after hours of use. A snug fit also helps block outside noise. Many brands offer different ear tip sizes to match your ears.
This lets you find the perfect fit for your unique ear shape.
Good earbuds should feel light and comfy. You shouldn’t notice them much when worn. If they hurt or fall out often, they’re not the right fit. Most stores let you return earbuds if they don’t work for you.
This helps ensure you get ones that fit just right.
Battery Life
Battery life is a big deal for wireless earbuds. You want them to last through your day without dying. Some top brands offer great power. Sony WF-1000XM5 gives you up to 8 hours of use.
Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro can go for 7 hours. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds last up to 6 hours. The champ is JBL Live Beam 3. These buds play for 12 hours straight. With the case, you get a total of 48 hours!
Your use affects battery life. Noise canceling eats more power. The Earfun Air Pro 4 shows this. With noise canceling off, they last 11 hours. Turn it on, and you get 7.5 hours. Apple’s AirPods 4 give 5 hours without noise canceling.
With it on, they drop to 4 hours. Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 strike a balance. They offer 8 hours with noise canceling on.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is key in wireless earbuds. Top brands like Bowers & Wilkins, Sennheiser, and Apple lead the pack. The Pi8 from Bowers & Wilkins tops the list for great sound. Sennheiser’s Momentum True Wireless 4 also gets high marks.
These buds make music clear and rich.
Good sound means hearing all parts of a song. Bass should be deep but not muddy. Voices need to be clear. The best earbuds, like the AirPods Pro 2, balance all these parts well. They make music sound alive and real.
For the best sound, look at what audio experts say about each model.
Noise Cancellation
Noise cancellation is a game-changer for wireless earbuds. It blocks out unwanted sounds, letting you focus on your music or calls. Top brands like Sony, Apple, and Bose lead the pack in this tech.
The Sony WF-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds offer top-notch noise-canceling. They use tiny mics to pick up outside noise and create opposite sound waves to cancel it out.
For Apple fans, the AirPods Pro 2 are a great choice. They have strong noise-canceling and work well with iPhones. Google’s Pixel Buds Pro 2 and Earfun Air Pro 4 also offer solid noise-canceling at different price points.
These earbuds help you enjoy your audio in noisy places like planes, trains, or busy offices.
Durability
Tough earbuds last longer. They can handle drops, sweat, and rain. The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 stands out for its strength. It’s built to take a beating. Other top picks are also water-resistant.
The Sony WF-1000XM5 and Apple AirPods Pro 2 have IPX4 ratings. This means they can handle splashes from any angle.
For even better protection, look at the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro. They boast an IP54 rating. This guards against both water and dust. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds match this with their IPX4 rating.
For athletes, the Beats Fit Pro shine. They’re great for workouts and daily use. These rugged options keep the music playing, no matter what life throws at you.
Price
Price plays a big role in picking wireless earbuds. Costs can range from $38 to $399. Budget options like the Sony WF-C510 offer good value. High-end choices like the Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 come with steep price tags.
Many popular brands fall in the middle, around $200-$300. The Apple AirPods Pro 2 cost $250, while Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are $230. Shoppers can find quality at various price points.
Some cheaper buds like the Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC at $70 pack in features. Others splurge on premium sound with the Technics EAH-AZ80 for $298.
Best Overall Wireless Earbuds: Technics EAH-AZ80
The Technics EAH-AZ80 earbuds top our list for good reason. They blend great sound, long battery life, and smart features into a comfy package.
Features & Benefits
The Technics EAH-AZ80 earbuds pack a punch with top-notch features. These wireless wonders offer a mix of style and substance for music lovers.
- Multipoint Bluetooth: Connect to three devices at once
- Hi-Res Audio: Enjoy crystal-clear sound with LDAC codec support
- Long battery life: Up to 7 hours of playtime, 24 hours with the case
- Noise cancellation: Block out the world with advanced ANC tech
- IPX4 water resistance: Sweat and splash-proof for workouts
- Touch controls: Easy access to music and calls on the go
- Voice assistant support: Quick access to Siri or Google Assistant
- Customizable EQ: Fine-tune your sound with the Technics app
- Wireless charging: Power up your case without cords
- Premium build: Sleek design with high-quality materials
Pros & Cons
The Technics EAH-AZ80 earbuds offer a mix of benefits and drawbacks. Let’s look at their pros and cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
• Top-notch sound quality • Sturdy build • Great for Android users • Long battery life • Comfortable fit |
• Expensive price tag • Bulky charging case • Limited color options • No wireless charging • App can be tricky to use |
These earbuds shine in sound and build quality. They work well with Android phones. You’ll enjoy long listening sessions without recharging. But they cost a lot. The case is big and doesn’t charge wirelessly. You only get a few color choices. Some users find the app hard to use at first.
Best Budget Wireless Earbuds: Sony WF-C510
Sony’s WF-C510 earbuds pack a punch without breaking the bank. They offer great sound and comfort for those on a budget.
Main Features and Benefits
Sony’s WF-C510 earbuds pack a punch without breaking the bank. These budget-friendly buds offer solid features for their price point.
- Sound Quality: Clear audio with deep bass for enjoyable listening
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours of playtime, plus 10 more with the case
- Comfortable Fit: Snug design stays put during workouts or daily wear
- IPX4 Rating: Sweat and splash-resistant for active use
- Quick Charging: 10 minutes gives an hour of playback
- Bluetooth 5.0: Stable connection with your devices
- Built-in Mic: Take calls hands-free with clear voice pickup
- Touch Controls: Easy to use for music and calls
- Compact Case: Slim design fits in pockets or bags
- Multiple Colors: Choose from black, white, green, or orange options
Strengths and Weaknesses
The Sony WF-C510 earbuds offer solid performance at an affordable price. Here’s a quick look at their pros and cons:
| Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|
|
– Low cost – Good sound for the price – Comfortable fit – Easy to use controls – Decent battery life |
– No active noise cancellation – Basic water resistance – Limited customization options – Average call quality – No wireless charging case |
These earbuds shine in value. They’re a great pick for budget shoppers who want good sound without breaking the bank. But they skip some fancy extras found on pricier models. Still, for basic listening needs, they get the job done well.
Best For Noise Cancellation: Bose QuietComfort Earbuds
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2 are top-notch for blocking out noise. They use smart tech to adapt to your surroundings and keep things quiet.
Key Features and Advantages
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2 set a new bar for noise-canceling tech. These earbuds offer top-notch sound and comfort for all-day use.
- Best-in-class noise cancellation blocks out most outside sounds
- CustomTune tech adjusts audio to your ear shape for better sound
- ActiveSense feature lets you hear important sounds when needed
- Immersive Audio creates a wider, more spacious soundstage
- Up to 6 hours of battery life on a single charge
- Touch controls for easy music and call management
- IPX4 water resistance for sweat and light rain protection
- Bluetooth 5.3 for stable wireless connection
- Comfortable fit with multiple ear tip sizes included
- High-quality mic for clear calls, even in noisy places
- Bose Music app for custom EQ and feature control
- Quick charging gives 2 hours of play time in 20 minutes
Positive and Negative Points
The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2 offer top-notch noise cancellation, but they come with trade-offs. Let’s break down their strengths and weaknesses:
| Positive Points | Negative Points |
|---|---|
|
– Best-in-class noise cancellation – Excellent sound quality – Comfortable fit for long wear – Improved voice-calling performance – Customizable sound profiles |
– Pricey compared to competitors – No wireless charging case – Battery life drops with Immersive Audio mode – Limited touch controls – Bulky charging case |
These earbuds shine in noise-blocking and audio quality. They fit well and work great for calls. But they cost more than others. The case can’t charge wirelessly, which is a bummer. Using special audio modes drains the battery faster. The controls on the buds are basic, and the case is big. Still, for quiet listening, these buds are hard to beat.
Best for Apple Users: Apple AirPods Pro 2
Apple fans, rejoice! The AirPods Pro 2 pack a punch with their H2 chip and spatial audio. They fit snugly in your ears and work like a charm with your iPhone.
Primary Features and Benefits
Apple AirPods Pro 2 pack a punch with top-notch features. These earbuds offer a mix of comfort and cutting-edge tech for Apple fans.
- H2 chip: This new chip boosts performance. It makes music sound better and cuts out more noise.
- Great sound: The earbuds deliver rich, clear audio. Bass is deep, and highs are crisp.
- Strong noise canceling: They block out most outside sounds. You can focus on your music or calls without distractions.
- Bluetooth multipoint: Connect to multiple Apple devices at once. Switch between your iPhone, iPad, and Mac with ease.
- Touch controls: Adjust volume or skip tracks with a swipe. No need to pull out your phone.
- Spatial audio: This feature creates a 3D sound effect. It makes music and movies more immersive.
- Long battery life: Get up to 6 hours of use on a single charge. The case adds 30 more hours.
- Water-resistant: They can handle sweat and light rain. Perfect for workouts or outdoor use.
- Hey Siri: Use voice commands to control your music. Ask Siri to play songs, make calls, or get directions.
- Customizable fit: Different ear tip sizes ensure a snug fit. They won’t fall out during activities.
Advantages & Disadvantages
AirPods Pro 2 shine in many ways. They fit great and sound awesome. The noise-canceling is top-notch, blocking out most sounds around you. They work like magic with iPhones and other Apple gear. Battery life is solid, lasting about 6 hours per charge.
But they’re not perfect. They cost a lot, which might make your wallet cry. And if you don’t use Apple stuff, you’ll miss out on some cool features. The case is easy to lose track of, even with the new lanyard hole. Still, for Apple fans, these earbuds are hard to beat.
Best for Samsung Users: Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro
Samsung fans, listen up! The Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are made just for you. They work great with Samsung phones and have cool features you’ll love.
Core Features
Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro pack some cool features. They connect to multiple devices at once, which is great for Galaxy users. You can switch between your phone and tablet without hassle.
These buds also stand up to water and dust with IP54 protection. This means they’ll survive a light rain or sweaty workout.
One fun extra is the lighting effects. The buds have small lights that can change colors. It’s a neat touch that makes them stand out. Plus, they offer good sound quality and noise cancellation.
These features make the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro a solid choice for Samsung fans who want top-notch wireless earbuds.
Good and Bad Points
Samsung’s Galaxy Buds 3 Pro shine in many areas. They offer great sound and strong noise canceling. The buds fit well and stay put during workouts. Their touch controls work smoothly.
But they’re not perfect. Battery life could be better – you’ll need to charge them often. They also cost a lot compared to other options. Some users find the companion app tricky to use at first. Still, for Samsung fans, these buds pack a lot of features into a small package.
Best in Sound Quality: Final ZE8000 MK2
The Final ZE8000 MK2 earbuds deliver top-notch sound. They offer rich bass and clear highs that’ll make your music come alive.
Fundamental Features
The Final ZE8000 MK2 earbuds pack a punch with top-notch sound. They use special drivers that make music sound clear and rich. These buds also have a smart chip that helps them connect fast to your phone.
You can control the earbuds with easy touch controls. They come with different ear tips to fit all ear sizes. The case is small and easy to carry. It can charge the buds for extra hours of play time.
These earbuds work well for calls too, with good mics that pick up your voice clearly.
Benefits and Drawbacks
The Technics EAH-AZ80 earbuds offer top-notch sound and a solid build. They shine with clear audio and a comfy fit. Users love their rich bass and crisp highs. But these perks come at a cost – they’re pricey.
While they block out noise well, some rivals do it better. Phone calls sound good, but not the best in class. Still, for music lovers who want quality, these buds are a great pick.
These earbuds stand out in a crowded market. They excel in sound but lag in a few areas. Noise blocking is good, not great. Call quality is fine, but not top-tier.
The high price might make some pause. Yet, for those who put sound first, these buds deliver. They’re a solid choice for audiophiles who don’t mind spending more.
Best Battery Life: JBL Live Beam 3
The JBL Live Beam 3 earbuds pack a punch with their long-lasting battery. You can groove to your tunes for up to 40 hours before needing a charge.
Important Features
JBL Live Beam 3 earbuds pack a punch with their key features. They boast a whopping 40 hours of total playtime – that’s almost two full days of non-stop tunes! The earbuds themselves last up to 10 hours on a single charge.
Plus, you can get 4 extra hours with just a quick 10-minute juice-up. These buds don’t skimp on sound either. They use JBL’s signature audio tech for crisp, clear music. And for calls? Six mics make sure your voice comes through loud and clear.
But wait, there’s more! These earbuds are tough cookies. They’re water and sweat resistant, so you can wear them during workouts or in light rain. They also have touch controls for easy use on the go.
And if you lose them? No sweat. The Find My Buds feature helps you track them down fast. Talk about peace of mind!
Gains and Losses
JBL Live Beam 3 earbuds offer great perks. They last longer on a single charge, giving you more time to enjoy your tunes. These buds also sound good overall, making your music pop. But they’re not perfect.
You might miss some fancy features found in pricier models. Still, for most folks, these earbuds hit the sweet spot of performance and value. They’re a solid choice if you want good sound without breaking the bank.
Best for Active Lifestyles: Beats Fit Pro
The Beats Fit Pro are perfect for fitness buffs. They stay put during workouts and sound great too.
Notable Features
Beats Fit Pro earbuds pack a punch with cool features. They boast Apple’s H1 chip for smooth pairing with iOS devices. The buds also have active noise canceling to block out unwanted sounds.
Users love the secure wingtip design that keeps them in place during workouts. The Beats Fit Pro offer spatial audio support, giving a 3D sound experience. They’re sweat and water-resistant, perfect for gym sessions or rainy days.
With up to 6 hours of listening time, these buds keep the music going all day long.
These earbuds work well with both Apple and Android phones. They come with three sizes of ear tips for a comfy fit. The Beats app lets users tweak settings and update firmware easily.
Voice control works with Siri on Apple devices for hands-free use. The case charges via USB-C and provides extra battery life on the go.
For and Against
Beats Fit Pro earbuds pack a punch for sports lovers. They stay put during workouts and block out noise. The snug fit means you can run, jump, and sweat without worry. Plus, they sound great for music and calls.
But these perks come with a catch. The sporty design might not suit everyone’s style for daily use. Some folks find them less comfy for long wear outside the gym. They’re also pricier than basic earbuds. So, if you’re not big on fitness, you might want to look at other options.
Most Innovative Design: Nothing Ear (a)
Nothing Ear (a) breaks the mold with its see-through design. These earbuds mix style and function in a fresh way.
Essential Features
Nothing Ear (a) earbuds pack a punch with cool features. They have active noise control to block out noise. The buds also offer clear calls with three mics in each earbud. Touch controls let you play, pause, and skip tracks easily.
These earbuds connect fast to your phone with Bluetooth 5.3. They last up to 5 hours on a single charge. The case gives 22 more hours of power. You can even charge them wirelessly.
The app lets you tweak the sound to your liking too.
Upsides and Downsides
The Nothing Ear (a) earbuds stand out with their cool look. They sound great too, giving you clear tunes. But they’re not perfect. The noise blocking could be better. It doesn’t shut out all outside sounds. This might bug you if you want total quiet. Still, for most folks, these earbuds work well. They offer good sound in a neat package. Just don’t expect them to block out every noise around you.
Best Value for Money: Earfun Air Pro 3
The Earfun Air Pro 3 earbuds pack a punch without breaking the bank. They offer top-notch sound and features at a price that won’t make your wallet cry.
Significant Features
Earfun Air Pro 3 packs a punch with its features. These buds have active noise cancellation that blocks out up to 43dB of noise. They also boast 45 hours of total playtime with the charging case.
The buds use Bluetooth 5.3 for a stable connection. They’re water-resistant too, with an IPX5 rating.
Sound quality doesn’t take a back seat. The Air Pro 3 uses 11mm wool composite drivers for rich audio. They support AAC and SBC codecs for clear sound. The buds also have a low-latency mode for gaming.
Six mics ensure clear calls, even in noisy places.
Pluses and Minuses
Earfun Air Pro 3 earbuds pack a punch without breaking the bank. They offer great value with good sound and noise canceling. You get crisp audio and peace from outside noise at a fair price. These buds won’t empty your wallet like some fancy brands.
But cheaper buds may miss some bells and whistles. Top-end models might have fancier features or slightly better sound. Still, for most folks, the Earfun Air Pro 3 hits the sweet spot of quality and cost. They give you what matters most in wireless earbuds without the premium price tag.
How We Test Wireless Earbuds
We put wireless earbuds through tough tests. Our team tries them in real life. We wear them while working, exercising, and relaxing. This helps us check comfort and fit. We also test sound quality with different music types.
We play pop, rock, classical, and more. Battery life is key too. We use the earbuds until they die to see how long they last.
Our tests don’t stop there. We check noise cancellation in loud places. We make calls to test the mics. We even see how well they pair with phones. CNET has over 25 years of product review experience.
We test dozens of new products each month. This means you can trust our results. Our goal is to help you find the best earbuds for your needs.
Must Know Points About Wireless Earbuds
Got questions about wireless earbuds? We’ve got answers! Check out our FAQ section for quick tips on fit, care, and tech terms. Read on to learn more about these tiny audio wonders.
How to prevent earbuds from falling out
Earbuds falling out can be a real pain. But don’t worry! There are easy fixes. First, pick the right size ear tips. Most earbuds come with different sizes. Try them all to find your perfect fit.
If they’re still loose, try foam tips. They mold to your ear shape for a snug fit. You can also use ear hooks or wings. These little add-ons wrap around your ear to keep buds in place.
For workouts, look for sweat-proof options. They’ll stay put even when you’re moving a lot. With these tips, your earbuds will stay right where they belong – in your ears!
Cleaning and maintenance tips
Keep your earbuds clean for better sound and longer life. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe them after each use. For tough dirt, try a damp cloth with mild soap. Dry them fully before use or storage.
Don’t let water get inside!
Take care of the charging case too. Clean it often with a dry cloth. Check for dirt in the charging ports. Use a soft brush to remove any gunk. This helps your earbuds charge right and last longer.
Understanding wireless vs true wireless
Wireless earbuds and true wireless earbuds are different. Wireless earbuds have a cord that links the two buds. True wireless earbuds have no cords at all. Each true wireless earbud is its own unit.
They connect to your phone and each other using Bluetooth. This makes true wireless earbuds more free and easy to use.
True wireless earbuds are newer tech. They’re great for sports and moving around. But they can be easier to lose. Wireless earbuds with a cord are harder to misplace. They often cost less too.
Both types give you freedom from wires to your phone. Your choice depends on what you need most.
Conclusion
Wireless earbuds have come a long way. They now offer great sound, long battery life, and cool features. From budget-friendly to high-end, there’s a pair for everyone. Pick the ones that fit your needs and budget.
You’ll enjoy your music more with the right earbuds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What’s the buzz about next-gen audio tech in wireless headphones?
Next-gen audio tech is all about top-notch sound quality and cool features. Think noise-canceling headphones that block out the world, or smart wireless earbuds that connect to your phone’s voice assistant. It’s like having a mini sound studio right in your ears!
2. Are wireless earbuds good for workouts?
You bet! Wireless earbuds for workouts are a game-changer. No more tangled cords while you’re pumping iron. Plus, many are sweat-resistant and stay put during your most intense sessions. It’s like they’re giving your workout playlist a high-five!
3. How long do batteries last in the best wireless headphones?
Battery life in the best wireless headphones 2024 is pretty impressive. We’re talking anywhere from 5 to 40 hours, depending on the model. Some even come with charging cases that can juice them up on the go. It’s like they’ve got their own little power plants!
4. Can I use wireless headphones for gaming?
Absolutely! Wireless headphones for gaming are becoming super popular. They offer high-quality sound and often come with special features for gamers. It’s like having a secret weapon in your gaming arsenal!
5. What’s the deal with noise cancellation in wireless earbuds?
Noise cancellation in wireless earbuds is like having a mute button for the world. It uses tiny microphones to detect outside noise and then creates sound waves to cancel it out. It’s perfect for focusing on your tunes or calls, even in noisy places. Talk about peace and quiet!
6. Are there wireless headphones work well with both Apple & Android devices?
Yes indeed! While some brands like Apple’s AirPods or Samsung’s Galaxy Buds2 are designed for specific systems, many wireless headphones play nice with both iOS and Android. Look for ones with Bluetooth connectivity – they’re like the Switzerland of the audio world, neutral and friendly to all!