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Diving into the world of earbuds can feel like stepping into a maze—so many choices, so little clarity. But the right pair turns your daily routine into a personal soundtrack, giving you control over calls, podcasts, and every beat in between.
To help you find your perfect fit, we bought 29 of the best models and took them to task in a side-by-side showdown in our sound studio. Outside the lab, our audio experts logged countless hours deep diving into genre-spanning playlists to evaluate the sound quality, comfort, and user experience of each set.
At the top of our list, the AirPods Pro 2 are the go-to pick for Apple users, offering seamless iPhone integration with great sound, a secure fit, and some of the best call clarity we've tested. If you're on Team Android, the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 take the crown with their lightweight feel and expansive sound, making it feel like you're front row at a live show.
If you're optimizing your paycheck, the newly added Nothing Ear Wireless offers great sound for the mid-range price and is extremely comfortable to wear for hours. EarFun Air Pro 4 offers some premium features at below-average prices if you'd like to get a little taste of what convenience can provide without the full commitment, but expect some compromises in sound quality and noise cancellation.
Editor's Note: With Jabra exiting the audio market and inventory running low, we've removed their products and updated this review on May 30, 2025, to highlight other top performers.
If you're already in the Apple ecosystem, the AirPods Pro 2 are the best overall earbuds you can get. They deliver rich sound, a super comfortable and secure fit, and some of the clearest calls we've tested—even on noisy streets and packed trains. They're an obvious improvement over the first generation, delivering a more neutral sound where the mids feel full and present, letting vocals and acoustics shine. Fit can be tricky with earbuds, but every tester on our team, across a range of ear shapes and sizes, found a comfortable seal. “I didn't feel like they were stuffing up my ears, even after wearing them for over an hour,” said Genaveve, one of our audiophiles, adding that kind of comfort is surprisingly rare. Apple handles the details for you with smart features like adaptive EQ and transparency mode, which adjust automatically, so you can simply plug in and go. They stay put through workouts, commutes, and everything in between, making them a reliable everyday companion for those constantly on the go.
SPECIFICATIONS
Earbud Location Tracking
Yes
Measured Battery Life
8.5 hr
Active Noise Cancelling
Yes
The AirPod Pro 2 are expensive, giving me extra appreciation for the “Find My” earbuds feature. As you can expect, they don't play nicely with Android devices, so if you don't have an iPhone, I would recommend avoiding this pair, as you'll lose out on many of the features that we have heavily relied on. If you're looking for a budget-friendly alternative for your iPhone, consider the 4th-gen AirPods, now available with active noise cancellation (ANC). They don't have the silicone tips, which you may prefer, but you'll notice a significant drop in performance when you switch from pro to no. Although they received an upgrade, these buds still lack the best ANC. We could hear ourselves typing and coworkers' footsteps, but it felt more like hearing them through a closed door—softened, but not completely gone. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra has the best ANC we tested, but it comes at a higher cost. All together, the AirPod Pro 2 delivers a polished, hassle-free experience for iPhone users that's hard to beat—especially if you want great sound without having to overthink the tech.
The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 are a standout choice for Android users, delivering excellent sound quality in a design that stays comfortable, even during extended listening sessions. They impressed us with consistent performance across the board, striking a rare balance that held up through months of testing. The sound has immense depth, with satisfying width and height that create an open, immersive feel. Percussion and synths hit with punch and power yet stay silky smooth. “I enjoy listening to genres like hip-hop, R&B, soul, and dance,” noted one of our testers, “where everything feels vibrant and dynamic.” Instrument placement is precise and tight, making it easy to pick out individual elements in the mix. Their ergonomic shape and gently contoured body nestle securely in my ears, and across our entire test team, they stayed in place without needing adjustment. Sometimes, they were so comfortable that I'd forget I was even wearing them. With up to 10 hours of listening time, these are a great, everyday choice.
SPECIFICATIONS
Earbud Location Tracking
Yes
Measured Battery Life
10.0 hr
Active Noise Cancelling
Yes
If you spend a lot of time in busy, loud environments, you might want better call clarity and stronger noise cancellation. Most earbuds naturally do a good job of reducing high-pitched sounds, such as alarms, crying babies, and even sharp voices, simply by the way they fit in your ears, much like earplugs. However, this model allows more noise to pass through, falling short compared to other top performers. Consider the Bose QuietComfort Ultra buds, which excel in both areas. They're pretty pricy, but may be an investment depending on how much you rely on ANC to silence the world around you. Although the Pixel Buds Pro 2 offer Android users excellent sound and all-day comfort at a lower cost, along with seamless Android connection, especially if you're already in the Google ecosystem.
Google Pixels Discounts
With the release of the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2, you may find the original Google Pixel Buds Pro earbuds offered at significantly discounted prices.
You'll get more out of these buds with an Android phone, bringing a swath of great features like earbud location tracking, hearing wellness test, and spatial audio.
When most people think of top-tier earbuds, they picture premium wireless models. However, wired options still offer major advantages, delivering sound quality that rivals — and often surpasses — far more expensive wireless competitors. This is why we believe the Linsoul KZ ZSN Pro X deserves more attention. These earbuds deliver well-balanced, spacious audio without the compression that comes with wireless transmission, and they eliminate the hassle of charging. “I love these for their slightly dramatic sound profile that enhances vocal-focused tracks and provides enough passive noise isolation to quiet nearby chatter,” noted one tester. If you're willing to manage the wires, you'll get great sound quality at a staggering price drop compared to wireless options.
SPECIFICATIONS
Earbud Location Tracking
No
Measured Battery Life
N/A
Active Noise Cancelling
No
While the Linsoul KZ ZSN Pro X delivers strong performance, it comes with the usual frustrations of wired earbuds — getting tangled, catching on things, and limiting movement compared to wireless options. On top of that, our test team found the bulky fit uncomfortable for smaller ears, making it harder to achieve a secure and satisfying seal. While they are a top model all-around, and our top wired earbud recommendation, we think a wired model like the JBL Endurance Run 2 would be a better choice for sweaty workouts and runs, given their IPX5 water resistance rating, and longer cord, although the cord was slightly more prone to tangling in our tests.
The Nothing Ear Wireless earbuds deliver sound quality that rivals far more expensive models, offering a fun and lively audio profile that makes them a great option for discerning audiophiles on a budget. The punchy bass and smooth treble dance across a spacious soundstage. “I could easily close my eyes and pinpoint each voice, each instrument,” says tester Bradshaw, “which is always really enjoyable for me.” Those silky high notes work especially well with classical music. “I was just jamming out,” says another tester, a fan of the classics. A user-friendly app, reliable touch controls, and customizable EQ settings round out a surprisingly robust feature set. They're comfortable too, with a pressure-free fit and a stable seal that held up during my sweaty gym sessions.
SPECIFICATIONS
Earbud Location Tracking
No, earbuds can emit a sound but no true location tracking
Measured Battery Life
7.7 hr
Active Noise Cancelling
Yes
Noise cancellation on the Nothing Ear Wireless is a noticeable step down from the top-tier models. In our testing, voices in the same room were fairly muted, but higher-pitched sounds—like microwave beeps or doors opening and closing—still came through clearly. If you need more effective ANC and make frequent calls, the Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro may be a better bet and could be on sale since they're an older model. The feature I missed most with this pair is location tracking. I lose my earbuds all the time, so if you're anything like me, that could be a dealbreaker. But if you don't have that concern and you're just looking for fun and laid-back listening in an easy-to-use package, the Nothing Ear Wireless earbuds are one of the best values on the market today.
The EarFun Air Pro 4 earbuds are a great pick for anyone looking for premium features and a sleek design without paying a premium price. They offer quite a value with the wireless charging, multipoint pairing, a handy lost earbud chime, and customizable EQ. While they lack the playful energy of our favorite models, their sound is easy to appreciate. As one tester puts it, “they polished my favorite songs, from classic pop and Americana to country and rock.” The natural-sounding transparency mode also makes it easy to chat without removing them, a significant plus for a budget model that makes them more convenient in areas where you're likely to run into friends.
SPECIFICATIONS
Earbud Location Tracking
No, earbuds can emit a sound but no true location tracking
Measured Battery Life
7.8 hr
Active Noise Cancelling
Yes
While they perform well across the board, they don't excel in any particular area. The treble lacks sparkle, and the call quality is subpar, sounding grainy in quiet rooms and struggling in loud environments. The Nothing Ear Wireless earbuds are a better pick if you make frequent calls. Similarly, while the ANC softens background sounds, it falls short. You'll have to invest another $100 to get any significant improvement. Still, at under $100, “I didn't expect much at this price,” one of our testers said, “but these kept surprising me.” While these earbuds are unlikely to satisfy audiophiles or frequent flyers who require best-in-class ANC, if you're after dependable audio, a bevy of bonus features, and standout value, they deserve a spot on your shortlist.
A budget offering from JLab, the Go Air Pop+ earbuds deliver a standout performance at an insanely cheap price, prompting one of our testers to exclaim — “What a steal!” Compared to similarly priced wired options like the Linsoul KZ ZSN Pro X or UliX Rider, which offer better sound, these earbuds stand out for their comfort and convenience. They also offer up to 7.8 hours of listening time per charge, four extra charges in the case, a built-in USB charging cable, touch controls, and a useful app. “The fact that you get a working app”, says another tester, "with a couple of bonus features, at this price point really blows me away!"
SPECIFICATIONS
Earbud Location Tracking
No
Measured Battery Life
7.8 hr
Active Noise Cancelling
No
While their sound may not satisfy audiophiles, they're great for students or anyone prone to losing gear, including younger children. Parents will appreciate that a “safe hearing” mode caps their volume at a reasonable 85 or 95 decibels (the Mayo Clinic would probably recommend setting it to 85 dB). “I love this feature!” noted another tester. “I think this can really help keep people's hearing safe.” These lack active noise cancellation and other advanced features, so don't expect much in the way of extras, but if you're just looking for the cheapest pair that still gets the job done, they stand out among the $30 crowd.
The JLab Go Air Pop+ delivers solid sound, a comfortable fit, long battery life, and a useful app—all for under $30. While there's no active noise cancellation, their passive isolation is surprisingly effective.
With the best noise cancellation in testing, and quite noticably, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra are your greatest bet to counter the loud, chaotic environments around you. Our tester team nicknamed these buds the “cone of silence,” making them a perfect tool for the office, on the plane, or through the busiest streets on your daily commute. By turning the outside noises down around you, you can have a more immersive audio experience. We loved the sound of these earbuds for their dramatic, thumpy bass that seemed to electrify the music we were listening to. Our expert listener, Genaveve, put it best: “I think these do a great job of creating a sonic space that sounds expansive, rich, and real.” The earbuds' effective spatial audio mode makes it seem like the music is coming from beyond the earbuds, surrounding you in breathtaking sonic landscapes.
SPECIFICATIONS
Earbud Location Tracking
No
Measured Battery Life
6.2 hr
Active Noise Cancelling
Yes
The Bose Ultras do have some annoying quirks—most notably, they kept disconnecting from our phones, especially iPhones, and didn't always reconnect without a fight. “That's the sole reason I reached for another pair of earbuds,” noted another tester. The battery life is also on the low end at 6 hours and 10 minutes. That might be fine for a commute or workout, but it won't get you through a full day of music or if you're trying to crank through your audiobook. These are Bose's most advanced earbuds yet, and the price reflects that. It really comes down to how much you value top-tier noise cancellation, which is where they stand out most. For a more affordable option, the Bose QuietComfort delivers a similar bass-heavy energetic sound and surprisingly strong ANC for the price. Just keep in mind, they're on the bulkier side and tend to fit best in larger ears. However, if you're after a rich sound and top-tier noise cancellation that truly quiets the world, the Ultras are the ones I recommend hands down.
From deep listening sessions to testing noise cancellation and phone calls in the office to charting frequency response curves with our Brüel & Kjaer Type 5128 Head Simulator - we put these earbuds through their paces.
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 offers the most sophisticated sound in the test, full stop. Its expansive soundstage and remarkable clarity create an exceptional listening experience across different genres. “It's almost like I'm in the room with the musicians,” says one tester. The newer Momentum 4 buds sound even better than the well-respected Momentum 3. Their tuning is beautifully balanced, blending richly textured mid-tones with a detailed and controlled treble range and bass that adds depth without overwhelming the track, unlike many other earbuds where mids get buried. Since the midrange carries most vocals and acoustic instruments, keeping it balanced makes music sound more natural and engaging.
SPECIFICATIONS
Earbud Location Tracking
No
Measured Battery Life
7.5 hr
Active Noise Cancelling
Yes
Considering their premium price tag, we expected stronger performance across the board. If noise cancellation and call quality are your top priorities, consider the Bose QuietComfort Ultra, or Apple AirPods Pro. Both of these options outperform the Sennheiser Momentum 4 in those categories. While the seal was solid, some testers found the earbuds to be a bit big and bulky, occasionally coming loose during movement. “I think they're great for everyday listening, but if you're planning to work out often, you might prefer something lighter and more secure,” noted our lead tester, Rachael. Still, if you're an audiophile seeking the best available sound, these are our top recommendations. As one tester puts it, “it's hard to settle for tin once you've had gold.”
We combine insights from our expert listening panel with sound frequency response measurements captured by our head simulator, Darwin (above). Together, these results help us reach a consensus: these buds deliver the best sound quality of any we've tested.
The Bose Ultra Open earbuds stand out with their unique clip-on design, avoiding pressure points and ear fatigue while feeling “feathery light” despite weighing about average. “I reach for these for bike rides and runs,” says one tester, “because they have great overall sound quality while still letting outside noises in.” Plus, airflow helps sweat evaporate instead of pooling in your ears (thankfully). They stay secure through runs, jumps, even cartwheels, and with an IPX4 rating, they handle sweat and rain easily. Battery life clocks in at 8.3 hours, with a quick 10-minute charge giving you a couple more hours of listening time at the ready.
SPECIFICATIONS
Earbud Location Tracking
No
Measured Battery Life
8.3 hr
Active Noise Cancelling
No
Just note: their open design means no active noise cancellation — for that, we recommend the Bose QuietComfort Ultra. And although these earbuds sound good, their bass is lacking due to the open design, which limits their power. Even tweaking the EQ in the app doesn't make much of a difference. They're also expensive for earbuds that don't have ANC. They're made for people with active lifestyles who want to stay connected to their surroundings rather than tune everything out. They're also a great option if standard earbuds don't stay in place, since they rest on the bottom of the ear rather than inside.
Thanks to the open design, these are great for workouts or outdoor runs—you can stay tuned in without tuning out the world around you.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Compare Products
We utilized a panel of expert listeners to evaluate the sound quality of each pair of earbuds. We then backed up our subjective testing by recording their frequency response using our Bruel and Kjaer 5128-B head and measuring it with the consort SoundCheck software.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
How We Tested
We spent over 2,500 hours testing each of these earbuds, using what we believe is one of the most thorough review processes out there. Our audio experts assess sound quality using a curated playlist designed to challenge earbuds across the bass, mids, and treble ranges. From the Beastie Boys to Debussy, we carefully analyze how each model handles dynamic shifts, clarity, and instrument separation. We scrubbed tracks repeatedly to identify subtle performance differences, holding each pair to the high standards that you deserve.
We spent hundreds of hours in our audio lab, testing everything from sound quality to active noise cancellation and call quality, turning what you hear into real, measurable results.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
To verify our impressions, we turn to our testing lab, built to professional-grade audio standards and supported by the expert staff at Listen Inc., whose work reflects the high standards set by founder Steve Temme. Using a Brüel & Kjaer Type 5128 head simulator (nicknamed Darwin) and Listen Inc.'s SoundCheck, we measure and compare the earbuds' frequency response, voice isolation, and noise cancellation. Our goal is to combine data-driven evaluations and real-world observations to gain the most accurate insight into how each earbud performs.
Our hands-on testing includes long listening sessions while running, working, and commuting to evaluate comfort, stability, and ease of use. For more information, see our companion article on How We Tested Earbuds.
Our earbud performance ratings are divided into five rating metrics:
Sound Quality (40% of total score weighting)
User Experience (20% weighting)
Noise Cancellation (15% weighting)
Battery Life (15% weighting)
Call Quality (10% weighting)
We had multiple testers with varying ear shapes try on each set of earbuds for several hours to guage their comfort level.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Why Trust GearLab
I'm Clark Tate, Senior Audio Editor at GearLab. I studied audio production at the Salt Institute for Documentary Studies and have worked in the audio industry for the past three years. I've been writing and editing audio reviews at GearLab since 2017. I'm joined by our expert testing team: Rachael Lamore and Alex Hocevar-Smith. Rachael, a Senior Review Analyst, brings a strong background in scientific testing from her time at Cal Poly and set up the advanced audio software and measurement systems in our test studio.
Alex brings nearly two decades of experience in the audio/video industry, where his expertise spans both creative and technical realms. A musician and passionate audiophile, he's spent years exploring and testing everything from headphones and earbuds to amplifiers, speakers, and DACs. His career includes A/V production work for major tech names like Apple, Meta, Google, Salesforce, Roblox, and Figma, along with audio engineering for renowned artists such as Foo Fighters, Paramore, and Bryan Adams.
Our dedicated test team logs long hours in our state-of-the-art audio test lab.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Leading our sound quality testing and evaluation process are Senior Audio Analyst Dave Berkman and Senior Review Analyst Genaveve Bradshaw. Dave has over 20 years of experience in audio recording and production. His professional experience is anchored in location audio and runs the gamut from music recording to composition. In his career, Dave has amassed an impressive list of clientele, including the History Channel, Apple, and the Food Network. Genaveve is a talented musician and vocalist who pursues music as a personal love and academic passion. She earned her bachelor's degree in Music from the University of New Mexico and is an accomplished classical vocalist.
We utilized a panel of expert listeners and commercial-grade audio testing equipment to measure each earbud's sound quality.
Worse Value
Better Value
Wired Earbuds Offer Great Price vs. Performance
While it may seem retro, the math is clear: wired earbuds are a bargain. When you purely look at the performance of products, like we do here at GearLab, it is impossible to ignore how much you get for your money from wired earbuds. Take a look at this comparison table showing the highly regarded $300 Sony WF-1000XM5 versus notable wired earbuds. The Linsoul KZ ZSN Pro X sells for just $24, and outperforms many more highly-regarded and expensive models.
Wired options may be less convenient, but they pack a punch when it comes to sound quality performance. If you're not constantly on the go, they may be a good alternative for around the house or at the office.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Best Deals in Wireless Earbuds
The absolute cheapest wireless earbuds we recommend — and a wicked deal at around $25 — are the JLab Go Air Pop+. They're not sonically rich, but they're consistent and comfortable enough for everyday use. Though they don't have ANC, they do offer set volume controls, making them a popular choice among parents. If you're willing to pay more, the EarFun Air Pro 4 buds are still a bargain with a sticker price that's below the $100 mark, offering better all-around performance. These buds are among the most affordable options with active noise cancellation. While they don't deliver complete silence, they noticeably reduce background noise, making them a great pick for anyone wanting this feature without the usual hefty price tag.
At the next tier, around $150, the lesser-known Nothing Ear Wireless earbuds emerge as a true competitor, outperforming notable brands like Sony and Sennheiser. They deliver consistent performance across the board, a major advantage compared to other budget models that tend to fluctuate. If you're on a budget, it's important to consider which compromises are worth making to keep costs down.
The freedom of wireless earbuds can be hard to beat.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Sound Quality
Exceptional sound is what makes a great pair of earbuds worth it—and it's the standard we focus on to help you find the best listening experience. Our expert panel has spent thousands of hours collectively, carefully evaluating each set. Using a curated playlist that spans everything from classical symphonies to metal anthems—and even podcasts and audiobooks—we dig into the subtle nuances that define an earbud's sound character.
We break down performance by frequency range to show how the lows, mids, and highs interact, so you know exactly what to expect. We also pay close attention to the depth and openness of the sound—how naturally the instruments and vocals spread around you—and push the volume higher to see if clarity holds under pressure. Here's what we found.
Expert Panel Sound Quality Ratings
Product
Bass
Mid-Range
Treble
Sennheiser Momentum TW4
8.7
9.0
8.7
Bose QuietComfort Ultra
8.8
8.5
8.9
Nothing Ear Wireless
9.0
8.5
7.5
EarFun Air Pro 4
8.0
8.0
8.0
Beats Studio Buds +
6.0
5.3
5.0
Amazon Echo Buds 2023
5.0
5.5
4.0
JBL Vibe Beam
2.0
3.5
3.0
The chart above shows the average Sound Quality ratings for Bass, Mid-range, and Treble given by our panel of audio experts. We spent thousands of hours deep listening to each earbud side-by-side, across extensive playlists covering every genre of music to rate sound quality in detail. Here's a look at the standouts, for better or worse.
Among all the earbuds we tested, the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 blew us away with its captivating soundscape and one of the most balanced sound profiles in the lineup. “The mids feel like a beautifully designed open floor plan,” noted Dave, “structured just enough to keep everything in place, but open enough for every detail to breathe.” Nothing gets lost or muddied like it often does with other earbuds. Even better, the sound arrives neutral and natural, untouched by heavy sculpting or artificial boosts, delivering the true, honest version of the music as the artist intended.
While Sennheiser focuses on natural timber and detail, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds bring the drama. They deliver the most deliciously bold bass and sparkling treble tones in the test, creating punchier, more cinematic sound that works wonders for pop, electronic, and even classical tracks.
Our team of testers digs into every detail when evaluating the sound quality of these buds.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
In contrast, options like the Beats Studio Buds+ and Amazon Echo Buds 2023 offer much more limited soundscapes. The Studio Buds+ struggle with recessed mids and overpowering basslines, resulting in an overall lack of clarity, especially for vocals and complex mixes. While they handle sparse, instrumental tracks reasonably well, their sibilance issues—harsh hissing sounds on “S” and “T” pronunciations—make them hard to recommend.
Similarly, the Amazon Echo Buds fall short with thin basslines and inconsistent high notes. Although their midrange clarity can shine through in vintage or acoustic recordings, the overall experience is underwhelming.
Soundstage
The soundstage of an earbud refers to where, in physical space, you hear the music coming from and the sensory atmosphere it creates. For example, live music typically comes from a stage in front of you, while in a movie theater, surround sound speakers pull you into the action, making it feel like you're in the middle of the scene.
Earbuds have the challenge of trying to replicate those experiences with small speakers that sit directly inside your ears. This often results in an “in-your-head” listening experience rather than making the music seem like it's coming from the world around you. For discerning listeners, a high-quality soundstage can significantly enhance the experience.
How well these earbuds fit affects their sound quality. If they are too big for your ears, the soundstage can sound diminished at times.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
The Bose Ultra's spatial audio mode creates an astonishingly immersive soundstage. It's a sound bath, allowing you to hear individual instruments and place them precisely in space. It's the closest you can get to having a live concert experience at your fingertips.
While the spatial audio modes don't work as well in the Pixel Buds Pro 2, Apple AirPods Pro 2, and Bose Quiet Comfort II, they're still impressive. They each offer great separation and location of instruments, but not as much expansion in comparison to the Bose Ultras.
That said, if you want the most expansive and immersive soundscape, full-sized headphones are still the best choice, thanks to their larger drivers and more open design, making them worth considering for anyone who prioritizes this experience.
Frequency Response
To get a snapshot of the sound profile of each pair of earbuds, we recorded the frequency response with our Brüel & Kjaer Type 5128 head simulator — affectionately nicknamed “Darwin” — and measured the frequencies using the companion software, SoundCheck.
The frequency response curve shows the relative volume or intensity of each frequency, but it doesn't capture how the sound actually interacts with you—like how a photo shows what a room looks like, but not how it feels to stand inside it. This is a great tool for comparing our expert panel's impressions to physical measurements, helping to show exactly what they're hearing. Our GearLab House Curve in red represents the frequency response that we think sounds best in a pair of earbuds.
You can select each product name on the right to view or remove which frequency curves you would like to compare. You can view each product's frequency response curve in its individual review to see how it stacks against our House Curve.
The Bose QuietComfort Ultras heightened bass range reflects its powerful thumps of the soul-hitting drums when we listen to music. The Sennheiser MTW4 is a bit harder to read, but the strong and steeper increase in mids might reflect a more balanced center compared to its treble region.
The Amazon Echo Buds and JBL Vibe scored among the lowest for sound quality. For the Echo Buds, the issue is more clear—the bass starts too low, bleeding into the mids before leveling out, which matches the muddied bass we heard during testing.
The Vibe's problems are a bit trickier, but our notes pointed to the clarity and balance of the sound mix: the treble could be piercing at times, and the bass often fought against strong mids, preventing everything from sounding as clean and cohesive as we'd like. This is a perfect example of why we test beyond just a single measurement.
Overall Sound Quality
After spending thousands of hours in our audio lab and listening to carefully curated playlists, we're confident in our assessments of these earbuds' sound quality. But we know this is a lot of information to take in, so let's quickly sum it up.
Top performer, Sennheiser MTW 4, left us stunned with its beautifully balanced sound, offering an airy, precise midrange—one of the hardest ranges to perfect. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra delivers a thrilling combination of thunderous bass, sparkling treble, and a spatial audio mode so immersive it feels like being pulled right into the music. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 impressed us with a warm, joyful sound that made every track feel vibrant and alive. Meanwhile, the wired Sennheiser IE100 Pro earned high praise for its clean, natural sound signatures that stay true to the heart of the music.
By contrast, the JBL Vibe, and Amazon Echo Buds left us underwhelmed. The Echo Buds lack the warmth and punch that bring music to life, resulting in a flat, forgettable sound. Similarly, the Vibe often felt hollow and thin, at times even veering into tinny territory. Both struggled to create any real sense of space, making music feel cramped and lifeless. Simply put, we wouldn't recommend any of these if you care about getting lost in your music.
A standout note: The Nothing Ear Wireless and EarFun Air Pro 4 both deliver impressive value for budget earbuds. The Nothing buds offer an open soundstage with punchy bass and lively detail, a sound profiles that echos the bass-forward feel of the Bose Ultras—making them great budget-friendly alternatives if that is what you are after. They can, however, lose a bit of clarity in busier tracks. The EarFun Air Pro 4 brings balanced tuning across the frequency range that works well with all genres, though its clarity doesn't quite match that of the higher scorers.
User Experience
Our ears come in all shapes and sizes, so we had more than a dozen people try on and test each pair for comfort and fit. We wore them at the office, for daily use, and for active use, including mountain bike rides, jumping jacks, and long, sweaty trail runs. We also explored every aspect of their functionality to find out which models are the most user-friendly.
Comfort
It's hard to assess earbud comfort without trying them yourself. To help, we asked testers with a wide range of ear shapes and sizes to try each pair on. Their feedback was surprisingly consistent. To give you an idea of how they might fit and feel, we've included photos of testers wearing each model. You can compare them side-by-side in the images below, starting with the Apple AirPods 4 and AirPods 2. Just click “Enlarge Image Compare” in the photo caption, then use the earbud labels to open a dropdown list of every model we've tested.
Apple AirPods Pro 2Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro
The photos above compare the newest generation Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro versus the Apple AirPods Pro 2 in In-Ear Photo. Samsung completely changed its design to resemble Apple's stem design.
The Bose Ultra Open earbuds take the cake for comfort. Their unique cuff design feels featherlight, resting on your ears rather than in them, allowing uninterrupted airflow. It's hard to imagine a less obtrusive design.
The airy design of the Bose Utra Open buds are far more comfortable than other models.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
In contrast, the Sony WF-1000XM5 tuck into your ears, but their moldable foam tip makes it a delightful experience. We do worry about the foam wearing out, but we never have to worry about uncomfortable pressure points.
The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 are nearly as comfy, with a light, airy feel that lets us forget that we're wearing them at times. The original Pixel Buds Pro aren't far behind. Despite a chunky appearance, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro are surprisingly lightweight in the ear, and their soft silicone tips are great for hours at a time.
Pixel Buds ProGoogle Pixel Buds Pro 2
We thought the original Pixel Buds Pro, shown on the left, were comfortable. Then we tried the updated Google Pixel Buds Pro 2. Their smaller size made them a better fit for all our testers.
The top earbuds from our comfort testing also excelled in staying in your ears, noting standouts with different designs to choose from, depending on what your ears prefer best. Although the open-fit Bose Ultra Open rests just outside the ear canal, it was surprisingly secure—we couldn't dislodge them even during stability tests like pulling off hoodies or doing jumping jacks. The Sony WF-1000XM5's moldable foam tips expand for a more secure and comfortable fit than standard silicone.
Some earbuds use over-the-ear hooks for extra security, while others rely on in-ear fins to stay put. They're great for active use, though they can feel a bit bulky or less comfortable for some. The Beats by Dre Powerbeats Pro and second gen held up through headstands and headbanging sessions with ease, but the original model is noticeably more comfortable, thanks to more moldable rubber in the arm that better conforms to the shape of your ear.
Lightweigt and secure, the Beats by Dre Powerbeats Pro are a great option for active users.
Credit: Isaac Laredo
The EarFun Air Pro 4 also performed better than expected in our stability tests. Their snug fit and lightweight design kept them in place during runs and light workouts, especially for those with average-sized ears. The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are incredibly stable and passed our headstand, headbanger, and sweaty summer bike ride tests. That's a big step up from other AirPods models that lack the grip of eartips. Without them, the Apple AirPods 3 and Apple EarPods - USB-C fall out when you turn your head quickly, earning some of the lowest scores in our stability tests.
When a set of earbuds passes the headstand test, we know they're solid. The Apple AirPod Pro 2nd Generation makes the cut.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Customization
Some earbuds offer simple plug-and-play operation, while others provide a range of app-based adjustments to tailor their performance to your preferences. While most are compatible with both Apple and Android devices, products from Apple, Google, and Samsung work best within their respective ecosystems.
Convenient Features
Adjustable EQ
Presets
Earbud Location Tracking
Transparency (Hearthrough) Mode
In-ear Detection
Sennheiser Momentum TW4
✖
Nothing Ear Wireless
Earbuds can emit a sound but no true location tracking
EarFun Air Pro 4
Earbuds can emit a sound but no true location tracking
Sony WF-1000XM5
✖
Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2
Apple AirPods Pro 2
✖
✖
Apple AirPods 3
✖
✖
✖
When it comes to app customization, Sennheiser MTW4 leads the pack with robust control over ANC, EQ (including podcast and bass boost presets), transparency, and even location-based sound profiles—giving us an unusually high degree of flexibility to tailor you listening experience. The Nothing Ear and EarFun Air Pro 4 apps also shine, with features like personalized EQ, ANC adjustment, gaming modes, and dual-device connection. Sony's WF-1000XM5 app is similarly full-featured, offering advanced ANC modes, speak-to-chat, and 360 Reality Audio that has spatial sound customization.
Just behind those leaders are brands like Samsung and Google, whose apps are thoughtfully designed with key features like adaptive sound, spatial audio, and EQ controls—though they're often limited or unavailable for iOS users.
Samsung has a packed app that gave us a ton of additional options for sound customization.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
On the other hand, a few models seriously underdeliver. The Apple AirPods Pro 2 app support is minimal and only functional within the Apple ecosystem, offering no real EQ or ANC fine-tuning beyond presets. Depending on your preferences, this could be a pro or a con—Apple handles most of the tuning automatically, adjusting to your ears and surroundings without requiring you to touch a thing. However, AirPods 3 fare even worse, offering almost no customizable features. The Powerbeats Pro and Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2 also disappoint with bare-bones apps lacking meaningful user control—especially surprising at their price points. For those who value personalized settings, these models simply don't keep up.
The Bose app lets you easily switch settings on the QuietComfort Ultra, including immersive audio mode.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Pairing is something you depend on every time you use your earbuds—and you often don't realize how important it is until it starts acting up. We test the ease of connectivity by switching devices throughout the test period. However, our smaller product sample isn't enough to fully capture issues like this, so we also analyze 1-star Amazon reviews, tracking how often connection frustrations are mentioned compared to the overall number of reviews.
Reported Connectivity Issues
Product
Percent Cited
Bose QuietComfort II
3.83
Bose QuietComfort Ultra
3.79
Bose QuietComfort
2.84
Sennheiser Momentum TW4
2.45
Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2
2.09
Sony WF-1000XM5
1.82
We found that the Bose QuietComfort Ultra and QuietComfort II show the highest number of connectivity complaints, particularly with iPhones, and often require annoying resets. The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 also raises concerns, with reports of random call initiations, while the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2 and Sony WF-1000XM5 had a higher-than-average rate of user-reported issues. These are the models with the highest reported connection issues—something worth considering if you don't want the frustration of losing your music midway through a song.
We can't recreate every potential obstacle to your Bluetooth connection. However, we used these in a wide variety of settings, and some earbuds definitely connected to our devices more easily than others. The JBL Vibe Beam was one such pair.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Overall User Experience
After months of testing, we've come away with clear standouts, models to avoid, and important considerations to help you find the pair that best fits your needs.
The Bose Ultra Open stood out with its incredibly comfortable clip-on design that stayed put—even during headbanging tests—and avoided the connection issues that hurt other Bose models. It was a clear winner in day-to-day wear. The Sony WF-1000XM5 followed closely behind, thanks to its plush foam tips that offered both comfort and security, paired with a robust, easy-to-navigate app. And while many budget earbuds feel bulky or stripped down, the Nothing Ear broke that mold with a lightweight fit and an impressive suite of smart features that made them feel anything but basic.
However, not all budget models perform equally, as many of our lower-cost options—like the Apple AirPods, JBL Vibe, Amazon Echo Buds, and TOZO—ended up near the back of the pack. The wired pairs also took a hit due to their lack of app support and adjustability, though the Sennheiser IE 100 Pro stood out as the most comfortable and stable of the group.
Noise Cancellation
When it comes to blocking out the world, earbuds rely on two main methods: active noise cancellation (ANC) and passive noise isolation. ANC uses microphones to detect external sounds and generates sound waves that cancel them out, working especially well against lower-frequency noises like engines or background hums. Passive noise isolation, by contrast, depends on the earbuds' physical seal—like snug ear tips—to block higher-frequency sounds like chatter or clinking dishes. Both methods play an important role in creating a more immersive listening experience, but they tackle different parts of the noise spectrum.
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds impressed testers so much that they called the noise cancellation “otherworldly.” We were impressed that the ANC was also able to dampen high-pitched noise—not usually achieved by ANC. The QuietComfort II earbuds accomplish this, too. In a simulated busy café, both models muted clanking dishes and background chatter better than most competitors.
The Bose is a great noise-cancelling option for reading your book at your local coffee house during a lunch rush.
The Apple AirPods Pro 2 earbuds' offers new depths of tranquility at the gym and a haven from the relentless chatter at the office. These earbuds let you hear your music clearly at low volumes. We also consider the ANC of Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 and Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro to be good enough to help you work and relax more effectively. They are good, but they don't create a separate space, apart from those around you.
Wired models and most budget earbuds don't offer ANC, meaning they rely entirely on their ear tips to block out sound. Some, like the Linsoul KZ ZSN Pro X and Sennheiser IE 100 Pro, manage to noticeably reduce higher-frequency noise, but even the best passive isolation can only do so much. For example, without strong noise blocking, it's easy to be distracted by clanging gym equipment during a workout or loud conversations in a busy airport terminal.
Models without silicone ear tips—like the Apple AirPods 3 and 4, Apple EarPods, and Bose Ultra Open—inherently come with a drawback, as their tipless design can't create the same strong seal needed for effective noise isolation. Even the newly released Apple AirPods 4 with ANC didn't do well in testing because of this design limitation. As a result, constant chatter and the clatter of plates, people talking, and rumbling of appliances or machines will always come through clearly, making it difficult to stay focused. You can clearly hear the stark difference between one of our weakest performers, the Amazon Echo, and the pristine Bose QuietComfort Ultra above.
Our cafe test highlights a wide range of sound frequencies, revealing Amazon's struggle to silence much across the spectrum effectively.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Bass is Really What Matters in ANC
Many annoying, repetitive sounds — like road noise, machinery, or AC units — tend to live in those mid to low frequencies, so we judge these earbuds primarily by how well they block noise under 1000 hertz. This is where ANC shines. Earbuds with properly functioning ANC can take a world of chaos and turn it into a quiet, serene space.
The noise cancellation graph gives a clear picture of the earbuds' capabilities, breaking it down by frequency type to understand its strengths and weaknesses.
While the videos above give you the chance to hear the difference, the noise cancellation graph gives you a clear visual. The snug fit of the wired Linsoul earbuds helps them compete with budget ANC models like the JLab Go Air Pop+, a reminder that checking the ANC box doesn't always mean strong performance. The regular AirPods, with no ANC and no silicone tips, don't do much to block outside sound. We've praised the Bose QuietComfort Ultra for good reason. We think Bose's edge comes from how it handles the higher end of the bass range into the lower end of the mids, frequencies you tend to come across most in noisy environments.
Overall Noise Cancellation
After listening to cuts of cafe simulations, analyzing noise cancellation charts, and testing firsthand, we came away with a few clear standouts that truly make a difference—while many others felt just average or below.
Not only did the Bose QuietComfort Ultra do well, but so did the cheaper QuietComfort II, meaning you can save a few bucks if all you care about is noise cancellation. The newly released Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro saw a swift improvement, making it a competitive player in this metric.
While it wasn't surprising to see ill-fitted and ANC-lacking models score lower, we were caught off guard by the weak performance of the Sennheiser Momentum 4 and Bowers & Wilkins earbuds, despite both offering ANC and priced at a premium.
Battery
Maintaining good charging habits is the biggest challenge of owning wireless earbuds. A long-lasting battery makes life far easier. We tested each manufacturer's claims by streaming our playlist at 75% volume until the music died.
Estimated Total Battery Life
Measured
Claimed
Charges/Case
Estimated Total
Sony WF-1000XM5
14.0 hr
12.0 hr
2
28.0 hr
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2
12.7 hr
10.0 hr
4.5
57.3 hr
Google Pixel Buds Pro
11.3 hr
11.0 hr
2
22.6 hr
Google Pixel Buds A-Series
4.5 hr
5.0 hr
4
18.0 hr
Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2
3.0 hr
5.0 hr
3
9.0 hr
The Sony WF-1000XM5 are perfect for non-stop listeners—those who want to press play in the morning and not think about charging until the end of the day. They run impressively long on a single charge, giving you true freedom without needing to top off from the case. The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 also offers a long listening time, but the case also holds a massive reserve, making them a smart choice if you need your earbuds to last through days of use without needing to hunt for an outlet.
For many earbuds, you can easily check battery life of each earbud via a companion smartphone app like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra above.
Credit: Elizabeth White
If long battery life is important to you, these models may leave you frustrated. The Google Pixel Buds A-Series barely hits 4–5 hours of playtime before needing a recharge—just enough for a work session or a short flight, but not much more. Even worse, the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2 only manages about 3 hours on a single charge, making them a risky choice for anything longer than a quick commute.
Call Quality
To test call quality, we made daily calls in loud environments and tested the earbuds' microphone in the lab, challenging it to isolate our voices from background tracks of office sounds and subway screeches. Their success depends on the number, quality, and placement of their microphones, but many earbuds also use advanced algorithms to separate your voice from ambient sounds. There's nothing more disappointing than phoning a friend and not hearing a word they say.
Subway Environment
The Subway test, with its erratic cadence, pitch, and tone, is a real stress test. There are only a handful of earbuds that we would willingly use to take calls in this kind of chaos. The Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Gen passes this test with flying colors. Play the video below to hear how they sound. Yes, the Subway noise is still annoying, but you can hear the caller, which is pretty impressive for this test.
The Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation pulls off an understandable phone call in our subway stress test.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
If you're not wowed, play the video below of the Beats Power Beat Pro 2, the worst performer in this test, attempting the same feat. Can you hear the difference? Both voices are barely audible—and when they are, they sound robotic, leaving us guessing at what's actually being said.
The man and woman on the other end sound like muffled robots, not providing much clarity to understand anything they're saying.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro, Bose Ultra Open, and Beats Studio Buds+ are other top performers. For these buds, you can still hear the background noise, but it doesn't take over the call.
Office Environment
As much as we'd like to take our calls in a private room, life often has other plans. So, we used the low hum of the office environment, complete with sounds of typing and ringtones, to find out how their call quality would fare.
Since the environment isn't as loud as a subway station, most products fared better in this test. As expected, the Apple AirPods Pro 2 eliminated much of the background noise. All Bose earbuds also performed well, with clear voice quality, although some background noise was noticeable, mostly when people were not talking.
The Bose QuietComfort earbuds successfully quiet the sounds of an office, though the man's voice does have some odd variations in volume.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Powerbeats Pro 2 hardly improves in this easier setting; voices are still grainy and difficult to understand. The budget option, Earfun Air Pro 4, gives an example of compromises with cut costs. Although not horrible, the background noise of the office competes with the person you're talking to.
The EarFun struggled with call quality, mostly because they do little to block background noise, making your location the biggest factor in how well you're heard.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Baseline Voice
Some earbuds can make callers sound robotic. They can also produce a lot of static, which is equally frustrating. To test them, we recorded ourselves talking in soundless environments to hear how well each pair captured our voices. The same trend for when we were listening with high volumes with the background. It can help, but you may have the person on the other line having to really focus to understand you.
The Google Pixel's did a great job of capturing the caller's voice with virtually zero static noise in the background.
The Google Pixel Buds Pro buds are a great example of what each earbud should strive for — no added white noise, and an accurate depiction of the caller's true voice.
Wired Earbud Call Quality
Wired earphones tend to provide clearer connections on calls because they offer a physical connection to your phone, avoiding the compression, latency, and signal interference issues that can impact Bluetooth performance. A handful of the wired earbuds we tested have microphones that work for calls, though their quality is inconsistent. Models that excel include the Linsoul KZ ZSN Pro X, Apple EarPods USB-C, and UliX Rider 3.5mm. They all perform similarly, but the Linsoul KZ ZSN Pro X is slightly better at isolating voices, making it easier to understand the person on the other line.
Overall Call Quality
The wired Linsoul KZ ZSN Pro X and Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Gen came out on top of our call quality tests. The AirPods Pro 2nd Gen stood out as the most reliable wireless performers, handling both subway screeches and office chatter with impressive clarity. The Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro, Bose Ultra Open, and Beats Studio Buds+ also delivered strong results, keeping voices intelligible even in chaotic environments. I would recommend any on these if you are frequently out in busy environments and need to connect with friends or family.
Call Quality Ratings
Product
Subway
Office
Baseline
Linsoul KZ ZSN Pro X
9.0
9.0
9.0
Apple AirPods Pro 2
9.0
9.0
9.0
Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro
9.0
9.0
9.0
Bose Ultra Open
8.5
9.0
9.0
Beats Studio Buds +
8.0
8.0
10.0
Bose QuietComfort II
8.0
9.0
9.0
Bose QuietComfort Ultra
8.0
9.0
9.0
Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2
9.0
9.0
8.0
UliX Rider - 3.5mm
8.0
9.0
9.0
Apple EarPods - USB-C
7.0
8.0
9.0
Google Pixel Buds A-Series
6.0
8.0
9.0
Bose QuietComfort
5.5
9.0
8.5
Nothing Ear Wireless
8.5
7.0
7.0
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2
7.0
8.0
7.0
JBL Vibe Beam
6.0
7.0
9.0
Apple Airpods 4 ANC
7.0
7.0
7.0
TOZO T10
6.5
7.0
7.5
Sennheiser Momentum TW4
6.0
8.0
7.0
Beats by Dre Powerbeats Pro
6.0
6.0
8.9
Apple Airpods 4
7.0
7.0
6.5
Amazon Echo Buds 2023
6.0
8.0
6.5
Apple AirPods 3
6.5
7.5
6.0
JLab Go Air Pop+
6.0
6.0
7.5
Google Pixel Buds Pro
2.0
7.0
10.0
Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro
6.0
6.0
6.0
EarFun Air Pro 4
4.0
5.0
6.5
Sony WF-1000XM5
2.0
5.0
7.0
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2
1.0
2.0
2.0
On the other end of the spectrum, the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds struggled significantly, with voices dropping out or distorting, particularly higher-pitched ones, making them a poor choice for calls in noisy settings. While some models perform well in quiet rooms, their call quality drops sharply when background noise interrupts, highlighting how crucial it is to test them in real-world conditions. While some earbuds can handle calls in a pinch, the Powerbeats Pro 2 performed so poorly that anyone on the other end of the call is likely to be frustrated. We don't recommend them for making calls.
There's a lot to choose from in the audio world! Check out this quick guide to make sure you're set up for success.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
How to Choose the Best Earbuds
Looking for the right pair of earbuds—whether wired or wireless—can feel overwhelming with so many choices out there. Here's a quick guide to help you zero in on what really matters, so you can find the pair that fits your life (and your ears) just right.
Sound That Matches Your Vibe
Bass lover or podcast purist? There's a sound profile out there for you. Even affordable buds can surprise you with rich audio, but premium models tend to deliver clearer detail and better balance. Wired earbuds avoid the Bluetooth middleman for a cleaner signal, but many wireless models now offer high-quality codecs that hold their own.
Find Your Fit
If your earbuds don't fit right, even the best sound will fall flat. Look for ones with multiple tip sizes or stabilizing wings to help them stay put. Foam tips offer extra comfort, while clip-on or open styles feel lighter but let in more ambient noise. A good fit isn't just about comfort—it helps your music sound better, too.
Features You'll Actually Use
Noise canceling, custom EQs, touch controls—wireless buds have all kinds of bells and whistles. Some even help you find a lost bud or connect to two devices at once. Wired earbuds keep it simple and reliable: no pairing, no charging. Pick what fits your lifestyle, not just what sounds fancy on the box.
Spend Smart, Not Flashy
Stick with what works for your devices—AirPods play best with iPhones, Galaxy Buds with Androids, and wired options might need a dongle. You don't have to splurge to get something great. A well-rounded pair with comfort, sound, and a few smart features often beats a high-end set that doesn't fit your needs.
Conclusion
In the end, the best earbuds balance sound quality, comfort, and convenient features against their price. Choosing the model that will work for you depends on which of these elements matters to you the most. Whether you need the best ANC on the market to get you through long flights, all-day comfort for work calls, or just a reliable pair for podcasts, we've found a great option for your needs.
—Clark Tate, Rachael Lamore, and Genaveve Bradshaw
