Wireless earbuds once felt like a far-off dream tiny headphones you could pop into your ears to enjoy music or take calls without wires. Early models were bulky, had short battery life, and came with plenty of issues. Today, that’s changed. Newer earbuds sound incredible, perform flawlessly, and many cost less than $100.
Best Earbuds for Most People
Recommending AirPods Pro clones as the best earbuds for most people wasn’t easy, but the Nothing Ear (a) (8/10, WIRED Recommends) truly earns it. These stylish yellow earbuds come in a sleek clear case, deliver impressive sound, and offer solid noise cancellation for under $100.
They pair effortlessly with both Android and iOS devices, and their lightweight, compact design stays comfortable during long listening sessions. Usability stands out with some of the best touch controls on any earbuds and 5.5 hours of listening time with noise canceling active. Plus, you can tweak the EQ in the companion app to better hear dialogue when streaming your favorite shows.
Best Noise Canceling
For the most powerful noise-canceling performance available, Bose remains unbeatable. The QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds deliver unmatched noise cancellation, letting you fully immerse yourself in their vivid, natural sound without a hint of background interference. Their seamless performance blocks out the outside world so completely, you’ll forget it’s even there.
Best for iPhones
The latest AirPods Pro (8/10, WIRED Recommends) now feature a USB-C charging case and updated audio architecture, but otherwise stay true to the previous generation. With six hours of battery life, a speaker-enabled case for Apple’s “Find My” feature, and intuitive touch controls for volume, they remain a top-tier option.
Noise canceling and call quality rank among the best, making them ideal for both work and play. A new IP54 rating adds dust and water resistance, perfect for gym sessions. Regular updates keep adding features like auto-adjusting volume during conversations, adaptive ambient sound, and even hearing aid capabilities.
Best for Android
Google’s Pixel Buds Pro 2 (9/10, WIRED Recommends) are tiny, comfortable earbuds that pair seamlessly with any Android device. Offering excellent noise canceling and impressive battery life (eight hours), they outperform the AirPods Pro in that regard. You can switch between digital assistants or even activate Google’s Gemini Live conversational AI with the command,Hey Google, let’s talk.
Most Secure Fit
From workouts to handstands, the Powerbeats Pro 2 (9/10, WIRED Recommends) stay securely in place with their iconic ear hooks, now 50% smaller for added comfort. This update brings a complete revamp, adding features like noise canceling, transparency mode, and spatial audio, alongside a heart rate monitor powered by Apple Watch tech.
The H2 chip enables Apple-friendly features like iCloud device switching, Find My, and hands-free Siri, while Android users get one-touch pairing, a dedicated app, and basic customization. New drivers and amplifiers enhance the bold Beats sound, and with up to 10 hours of battery life per charge, they lead the pack.
Best Open Earbuds
Open earbuds are perfect when you want to stay aware of your surroundings, but they’re not always ideal for every situation. For those looking for a solid option, Soundcore’s budget-friendly Aeroclip (8/10, WIRED Recommends) are a top pick.
Featuring a titanium connector loop for a lightweight, stable fit, they offer responsive controls and detailed, warm sound with more bass than you’d expect from open earbuds. The tough, compact case and strong battery life make them the best choice for most budgets.
Best for Sound Quality
Techniques’ AZ100 (8/10, WIRED Recommends) improves on the excellent EAH-AZ80 (9/10, WIRED Recommends) by incorporating driver technology from the brand’s high-end EAH-TZ700 in-ears. The result is a richer, more detailed sound that uncovers new textures in familiar music.
Read More: Top Budget Smartphone You Can Get
Best for Great Sound on a Budget
Soundpeats may not be a household name, but the company has been impressing lately with exceptional sound at an affordable price. WIRED editor Parker Hall gave the Capsule3 Pro+ a rare 10/10, praising their remarkable sound performance. The key is the combination of a traditional dynamic driver and next-gen xMEMs driver, delivering vivid detail and deep bass.
Best Under $30
JLab continues to dominate the budget-friendly market with the Go Pop ANC, an impressively feature-packed pair priced lower than a takeout dinner for two. The standout at this price is the noise canceling, which effectively reduces low rumbles like HVAC noise and even higher-pitched sounds while playing music.
Best Premium Buds
Bowers & Wilkins’ Pi8 earbuds (8/10, WIRED Recommends) deliver deft, immersive sound, making them a standout choice in premium audio. Though they come with a hefty price tag, they offer excellent noise canceling, bold audio reproduction, and a unique retransmission case feature that allows you to plug the case into a source and transmit directly to the earbuds.
This feature is especially useful for travel, where Bluetooth connections may not always be available on planes, trains, or cars. Call quality is top-notch, thanks to beam-forming mics designed to block out external noise. For business professionals who want high-quality sound without the bulk of over-ear headphones, these could be the perfect solution.
Best Battery Life
Audio Technica’s earbuds (8/10, WIRED Recommends) offer an impressive 15 hours of battery life with noise canceling active, the longest we’ve tested in any earbuds. Despite their slightly bulky appearance, they’re surprisingly ergonomic, with multiple eartip sizes to ensure a secure fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes wireless earbuds the best choice for daily use?
Wireless earbuds offer the freedom of movement without being tethered to a device, providing convenience for everything from commuting to working out. With improvements in sound quality, battery life, and noise cancellation, many models now deliver high-quality audio and comfort, making them a versatile choice for any activity.
How do noise-canceling wireless earbuds work?
Noise-canceling earbuds use active noise control (ANC) technology to reduce or eliminate unwanted ambient sounds. Microphones inside the earbuds pick up surrounding noise and send it to the ANC circuitry, which produces sound waves that cancel out the external noise. This allows for an immersive listening experience even in noisy environments.
What should I look for when choosing wireless earbuds?
Consider factors like sound quality, battery life, fit, noise cancellation, and special features such as water resistance or multipoint pairing. The brand and the price also play a role in determining which model best fits your needs, whether you’re a casual listener or a frequent traveler.
Are there wireless earbuds that work well for both Android and iOS devices?
Yes, most modern wireless earbuds are compatible with both Android and iOS devices. Features such as Bluetooth pairing, volume control, and voice assistant integration typically work seamlessly across platforms. Some earbuds, however, may offer exclusive features for specific devices (like Apple’s H1 chip for AirPods with iOS).
How long do wireless earbuds typically last on a single charge?
Battery life varies by model, but most quality wireless earbuds offer between 5 to 8 hours of playback time with noise canceling active. Some premium models can last up to 15 hours, and charging cases often provide additional power for multiple uses.
Can I use wireless earbuds for calls?
Yes, most wireless earbuds come equipped with built-in microphones and offer clear call quality. High-end models feature beamforming microphones that block out background noise, making them ideal for business calls or hands-free conversations.
How do I maintain and clean my wireless earbuds?
To maintain your wireless earbuds, regularly clean them with a dry cloth, especially around the earpieces and charging ports. Avoid using harsh chemicals. Make sure to store them in their charging case when not in use to protect them from dust and damage. If they’re water-resistant, rinse them with water after workouts or outdoor use, but be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Conclusion
Choosing the right wireless earbuds depends on your specific needs, whether you’re after superior sound quality, long-lasting battery life, or effective noise cancellation. With countless options available, including high-performance models from top brands, there’s something for every lifestyle and budget. Whether you’re commuting, working out, or just enjoying your favorite music, the best wireless earbuds can elevate your listening experience.