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Finding a comfortable, stable, and sound-immersive set of earbuds can make a long day feel shorter, a loud commute quieter, and somehow, a workout better. Wireless earbuds are one of the great joys of the modern age, allowing you to turn down the noise and turn up the vibe anytime, untethered.
Our expert panel of audio testers used the top 24 models during commutes, flights, errands, workouts, and long days at the office. We then backed up our life experience results with in-house audio testing to see which earbuds truly deliver.
The best overall earbuds are the Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen2). With some of the best sound and noise cancellation in the group, they are compatible with most operating systems, but aren't as comfortable as some competitors.
Depending on your smart device's operating system, the best wireless buds are the Apple AirPods Pro 3 and Google Pixel Buds Pro 2. These two offer all-day comfort, exceptional sound, and seamless integration with their respective ecosystems.
If your budget is smaller, but you want the best sound you can afford, the Nothing Ear Wireless and CMF Buds 2 Plus buds both deliver surprisingly sophisticated soundscapes and features at wallet-friendly prices.
We're committed to helping you find the right audio option for your goals and needs. You can find more ear-loving contenders in our bargain-priced wired models, or budget headphones. If in-ear buds are not your jam, wireless headphones might be a better fit, literally.
Editor's Note: Our wireless earbud review was updated on November XX, 2025, with new additions from Apple, Technics, CMF, and Soundcore.
Battery Life: 5.8 hrs | Active Noise Canceling: Yes
PROS
Dreamy bass
Limited distractions
Better calls
CONS
Bulky fit
ANC on all the time
Not secure for most
Pricey
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2) Earbuds are not the best at any one thing, but they might be the best for those not beholden to a particular operating system or product type. With one of the highest sound quality results in the group, the sound is somewhat bass-forward but still appeals to the masses with rich textures and a fun mix that never leans too hard in one direction. It comes with active noise cancellation, you can adjust it by increasing or decreasing transparency, and it offers better-than-average phone calls for those who still use their phones for chatting. Because it pairs equally well with both Android and Apple devices, it earns favor for bridging the divide with ease and an enjoyable sound.
The Bose are expensive, and choosing a pair of buds married to your device type can save you some serious coin. Options like the Apple AirPods Pro 3 and the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 could be better companions. Alternatively, if you are willing to sacrifice sound immersion and noise cancellation somewhat, the Nothing Ear Wireless is worth considering at half the price of the Bose. The Bose buds are also bulky and protrude as well as extend longer than most earbuds. They work better for larger ears, with some small-eared testers finding them hard to wear. The Apple, Pixel, and Nothing Ear are all more comfortable. Lastly, the Bose has a remarkably short battery life of under 6 hours. You won't be able to make it through a long day of anything without downtime to recharge. In the end, we believe that those who love focusing on the music and blocking out distractions will appreciate the Bose; those who favor multiple operating systems will enjoy how well it integrates with all of them.
Battery Life: 12.8 hrs | Active Noise Canceling: Yes
PROS
Superior sound & noise blocking
Mind-blowing battery life
IP57
Untouchable call clarity
CONS
Best with iOS
Slick case
Little bit spendy
The Apple AirPods Pro 3 are so good, they'll make you want to buy an iPhone. Apple upped its AirPods Pro 2 game with richer, warmer, and more expansive sound. They dialed up the noise cancellation to some of the best we've ever seen and an improvement over the previous generation, and they even upped their comfort game, where they were already the cream of the crop. We love everything the AirPods have to offer, including the “Find My” and spatial audio features, as well as the ultra-impressive 12.8-hour battery life that keeps you engaged longer than most competitors. As one tester said, “I might just have to buy them for myself.”
The biggest bummer here is that Android users don't get any of the standout features, and the performance is slightly dulled, lacking the shine they experience when paired with iOS devices. In short, if you have an Android phone, they aren't the buds you're looking for. And while we love earbuds like the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2, which are our favorites for Android users, they aren't in the same caliber as the AirPods, although they are slightly cheaper and still really good. If you own an iPhone or live primarily in the Apple ecosystem, we think these are a go-to pair if your budget is big enough.
Battery Life: 10 hrs | Active Noise Canceling: Yes
PROS
Comfy and lightweight
Dynamic sound
Long-lasting battery
CONS
Weak call quality
Plays poorly with Apple
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 are our favorites for Android. They're among the lightest and most comfortable earbuds, making them great for extended listening and all-day errands. They sound fantastic across genres, generating a sense of space, rich detail, and consistent clarity. The percussion has punch and power, while the synths are silky smooth. “They create a really dynamic, fun sound, making the most of hip hop, R&B, and soul music,” says one tester. Spatial audio with head tracking creates a 3D listening experience, making the impressive soundstage feel even more immersive. The app is packed with valuable features, including EQ presets, noise exposure tracking, and a performance-boosting seal check.
The app isn't available on iOS, so there is limited Apple functionality and switching between devices is a chore. If you live in iOS, we prefer the Apple AirPods Pro 3. While the active noise cancellation (ANC) on the Pixel Pro 2 is improved, it still lags behind competitors like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2). Additionally, the transparency mode adds a distracting hum, and call quality suffers in noisy environments. Plus, the conversation detection feature is frustrating, turning the music down when you mutter to yourself. However, if Android is your wheelhouse and you prioritize sound and comfort over ANC, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 could be the perfect fit.
Sparkling sound, consistent comfort, and fluid connectivity make the Pixel Buds Pro 2 the top choice among our Android-using testers. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Battery Life: 7.7 hrs | Active Noise Canceling: Yes
PROS
Comfortable for hours
Powerful sound
Better phone calls
CONS
So-so noise cancellation
No tracking location
The Nothing Ear Wireless offers an above-average performance at a budget-friendly price. Be it sound or call quality, the Nothing Ear are a delight to use. These reasonably priced wireless buds are super comfortable, sweat-resistant, and provide a stable fit. They have a punchy and powerful sound when you turn up the volume without any of the frequencies becoming muddy. The highs shine with a nice sparkle. The roomy soundstage seals the deal as one of the best sound quality choices in the mid-range price group. As our expert audio tester remarked, “There's something really fun and pleasing about this mix.” They also have a solid app with EQ customization.
The Nothing Ear Wireless aren't the best at active noise cancellation, but you'll have to spend about $100 more for better. If making calls is one of your primary goals, the Nothing Ear falls short, as the AirPods Pro 3 and Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 consistently deliver clearer calls. Additionally, the Nothing Ear don't have true location tracking from the app, but the buds can emit a sound if you drop one, making it easier to find. If you are the type to lose things, something with true tracking, like the AirPods Pro 3's “Find My” feature, might be a better fit. As one teen tester put it, “I lose stuff all the time, being able to track my buds is important. But losing more expensive earbuds is worse.” Overall, we believe most users will enjoy the Nothing Ear Wireless and won't be disappointed with the sound quality, even if they aren't completely blown away by it.
The Nothing Ear is a budget-friendly option that provides better-than-average sound quality, comfort, app features, and call quality. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Battery Life: 12.8 hrs | Active Noise Canceling: Yes
PROS
Super affordable
Listen all day battery
Wearable for hours
Good sound for price
CONS
Not fun for phone calls
Average noise-fighting ability
If affordability is top of mind but enjoying music is also important, the CMF Buds 2 Plus are ready to enter the chat. These lovely, simple earbuds come in a shiny metallic-looking case, complete with a fidget spinner corner. They offer a comfortable stem shape that fits similarly to AirPods, and they even have a feature-rich and user-friendly app that is neither distracting nor links you to shopping. The sound profile places emphasis on the lows and mids, although they fall short of being truly nuanced. However, the soundstage is wide, and the final sound is enjoyable. These budget-friendly buds also feature better-than-average noise cancellation, comparable to or even surpassing more expensive options, and one of the longest battery lives we've seen. One tester said, “I enjoyed these far more than I thought I would.”
The CMF isn't the best for making calls or joining meetings. While you can get away with it in quieter settings, busy or loud backgrounds can be difficult. The Nothing Ear Wireless offers clearer call quality for a reasonable price, but it is still about twice what the CMF goes for. Additionally, the sound quality might be better than average, but true audiophiles may not find it to their liking. Overall, we think these can be the perfect gateway earbuds for those with reasonable expectations and limited finances. Teens, college students, or anyone who enjoys a great deal will find something to love in the CMF.
Battery Life: 7.8 hrs | Active Noise Canceling: No
PROS
Fits most budgets
Handy app
Impressive features
CONS
Lackluster sound
Manual pairing
No ANC
Surprisingly capable at a delightfully cheap price, the JLab Go Pop+ earbuds are an excellent, low-commitment entry into the wireless world. They're ready for long days with 7.8 hours of battery life and a case that provides four extra charges and a built-in USB charging cable. The fairly neutral mix works decently across genres, with sound that neither offends nor dazzles. They're comfortable and secure, with a lightweight fit. They offer a rich feature set, including touch controls, a transparency mode, an IPX4 water resistance rating, and a functional app, which is nearly unheard of at this price point. “The fact that you get a working app with a couple of bonus features at this price really blows me away,” says one tester. A standout feature is the safe hearing mode that allows you to cap the volume, making them a compelling choice for teens.
The Go Pop+ doesn't offer active noise cancellation (ANC), location tracking, or the nuanced, transcendent sound that more expensive models can offer. While the JLab app is impressive for the price, it lacks the polish of premium alternatives. If you want more and have the budget for better, the CMF Buds 2 Plus and Nothing Ear Wireless offer more for reasonable prices compared to most competitors. Still, for anyone on a tight budget or those unsure if wireless earbuds are right for them, the JLabs are a solid choice.
Battery Life: 7.5 hrs | Active Noise Canceling: Yes
PROS
Stunning sound
Better comfort
Feature-full app
CONS
Higher price tag
Needlessly complicated setup
The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 are sonic gold, with a rich, layered, and immersive sound across an expansive stage. If you are looking for sound that takes you to new planes and lets you hear things you didn't know were in your favorite songs, these are the buds for you. They offer better comfort than other versions, and the app is easy to navigate and is loaded with features. They have better active noise cancellation, and the call quality is good enough to get you by for occasional chats. The Active Noise Cancelation is better than most, but the Apple AirPods Pro 3, Bose QuietComfort lineup, and the Sony WF-1000XM perform better.
We struggled with pairing the buds and connectivity when using across multiple devices (especially iOS devices). Once paired with one device, getting a new device to find them was a struggle. We even had to instruct the first device to forget the buds and delete the app in order to pair with a new phone. They also aren't the best for calls, so if you spend a lot of time chatting, they might not be your best choice. The Apple Pro 3 are more comfortable, have better noise cancellation and make crystal clear calls, but they have a slightly less inspired sound profile. Overall, we think the Momentum is the perfect choice for those who want to feel the music and enjoy every moment, and have fewer concerns with making calls while wearing earbuds.
Battery Life: 8.1 hrs | Active Noise Canceling: Yes
PROS
Better than average sound
Comfortable fit
Good ANC
CONS
Subpar call clarity
No adjustments w/iOS
App not intuitive
The Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro are an excellent Android alternative or a good choice for those who live in the Samsung ecosystem. These buds feature a vibrant, bass- and treble-forward mix, making them an excellent choice for pop, hip-hop, and R&B. The Samsungs are featherlight and super comfy for most; while they look larger, they have four ear tip sizes and feel lightweight once they are in. The app is easy to use and includes better active noise cancellation, wireless charging, and adjustable EQ. They also offer above-average ANC. While not the best in the group, they are above average and similar to the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2.
These earbuds are not as stable in the ear as some competitors, and for some wearers, even a large smile could cause them to fall out. Options like the Bose Ultra Open or the Sony WF-1000XM5 are more likely to stay in place. While these are not the most expensive in the group, they aren't cheap either. Those on a tighter budget will likely be better off looking elsewhere, such as the CMF Buds 2 Plus or the Nothing Ear Wireless, which offer robust sound profiles at lower prices, albeit with somewhat less comfort. One tester said, “For the price of the Samsung, you might be able to get two of a different pair that are less likely to fall out and sound almost as good.” Overall, we think Samsung is a solid choice if it meets your goals.
Battery Life: 8.3 hrs | Active Noise Canceling: No
PROS
Uber comfortable
Stable open design
Clear call quality
CONS
No ANC
Average sound
Expensive
The Bose Ultra Open is a unique offering with an ear cuff design that keeps music where you want it but allows for impressive transparency of the world around you. As our tester reports, “For those looking for more environmental awareness, it is hard to find a better or more natural choice.” These ear-hugging earbuds are uber comfortable, with many of us forgetting we even have them on. They are especially nice for those who dislike the pressure of traditional buds in their ear canals. They offer a user-friendly app and provide better call quality than most competitors, with clear voices even in the most chaotic backgrounds.
These buds are stable for most activities, but struggle to stay in place if brushed by clothing going overhead or something swiping past them. Testers report, “They are so comfortable, you might not even notice they've fallen off.” They also lack tracking, making it particularly difficult to find them should they fall. Thanks to the design that favors transparency and comfort, they also lack ANC or other noise cancellation properties, making the Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2) the better pick for creating silent surroundings. Last, the Ultra Open do not have the best sound quality. While the treble range is well-developed, the mids and bass are weaker than those of in-ear Bose options. Despite these hiccups, the Ultra Open succeeds in creating a transparent listening experience with unbeatable comfort and sound good enough for most listeners.
The Ultra Open are so comfortable you might forget you're wearing them. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Compare Products
We purchase and use every wireless earbud in our lineup to assess overall performance.
How We Test
We spent over 2,500 hours testing more than 45 wireless earbuds in our audio lab and in the real world, including the 24 earbuds featured in this update. Our trained audio experts judged how each pair sounds, fits, and functions.
We rated each earbud across five key metrics:
Sound Quality (35% of weighted score) — We evaluate the clarity, balance, detail, and immersive qualities of each sound profile across a range of music genres, podcasts, and audiobooks. Working with the experts at Listen Inc., we used the Brüel & Kjaer head simulator and SoundCheck software to analyze performance.
Comfort and Fit (25% of score) — We examine each pair's comfort and fit with an eye for hours of continued wear and stability under regular use.
Noise Cancellation (20% of score) — We test how well each bud blocks external sound in real life and the lab with standardized recordings. We also test transparency modes to determine how easily you can hear your desired surroundings.
App Features (10% of score) — We test each pair's controls, related app, and general features for ease of use and customization.
Call Quality (10% of score)-- We test how clearly voices transmit on calls in various environments. We look for mics that clearly isolate voices from background noises with minimal distortion.
Our audio experts evaluated every aspect of these earbuds in our state-of-the-art audio studio and while wearing them in the real world.
Why Trust GearLab
We assembled a team of audio professionals and enthusiasts to evaluate wireless earbuds. Clark Tate, is our Senior Audio Editor, documentary audio producer, and enthusiastic guitar player. She studied audio production at the Salt Institute for Documentary Studies and has spent years capturing sound for documentary films and producing podcasts.
Clark is joined by Senior Review Analysts Rachael Lamore, Genaveve Bradshaw, and Dave Berkman. Rachael led our in-house audio testing, utilizing professional-grade audio software and hardware to measure frequency response, call clarity, and noise cancellation. Genaveve is a skilled singer and musician driven by an academic dedication to music theory and a deep passion for music. She holds a degree in Music from the University of New Mexico with a foundation in classical vocal performance. With more than two decades of experience in audio recording and production, Dave Berkman specializes in location sound recording. His versatile skills include recording and composing music, and his work has attracted an impressive client roster, including the History Channel and the Food Network.
We use every set of wireless earbuds during testing, including the Nothing Ear Wireless seen here. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Analysis and Test Results
We tested the earbuds for sound quality, comfort and fit, noise cancellation, aa features, and call quality to help you find the right pair to meet your goals and budget.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
Wireless earbuds are available in a wide price range. While this is a gear type where you often get what you pay for, there are some impressive lower-priced options depending on your goals. Our favorite budget buds are the CMF Buds 2 Plus. They have a rich, balanced sound, chime tracking, custom EQ, and a comfortable fit, but they aren't the best at noise cancellation or phone calls. However, for the price, nothing compares to what they offer. The Nothing Ear Wireless is also a compelling budget pick. While they cost twice as much, they are often half the price of premium buds. They offer better sound quality, impressive comfort, and good active noise cancellation (ANC) and call quality. With above-average performance in every metric, it is hard not to love them. If your pockets are empty and your budget is tight, the JLab Go Pop+ can get you by in a pinch for one of the lowest prices around.
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2) impressed with their wildly immersive soundscape. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Sound Quality
Our expert ears considered each pair across various genres of music, assessing the mix of highs, lows, and everything in between. The first consideration for impressive sound quality is how well the buds transmit the different ranges from treble, mids, to bass.
Expert Panel Sound Quality Ratings
Product
Bass
Mid-Range
Treble
Sennheiser Momentum
8.7
9.0
8.9
Bose QC Ultra (Gen 2)
8.7
8.4
9.0
Bose QC Ultra
8.6
8.1
9.1
Bowers & Wilkins
8.2
8.6
8.3
Airpods Pro 3
8.4
8.3
7.8
Galaxy Buds3 Pro
7.5
8.3
7.8
AirPods Pro 2
7.7
8.3
7.5
Pixel Buds Pro 2
8.4
7.4
7.3
Nothing Ear
8.4
7.5
7.0
Bose QuietComfort
8.0
7.3
7.3
Technics EAH-AZ100
7.8
8.0
6.8
Sony WF-1000XM5
6.5
7.5
7.7
CMF Buds 2 Plus
7.0
6.8
6.8
EarFun Air Pro 4
6.9
6.8
6.8
Bose Ultra Open
5.0
7.8
7.3
Airpods 4 ANC
5.0
7.3
6.8
JLab Go Pop++
5.8
6.6
5.5
Powerbeats Pro 2
7.4
6.3
4.0
Powerbeats Pro
6.6
6.4
4.5
TOZO T10
5.3
5.6
5.2
Beats Studio Buds +
6.0
4.5
4.5
Soundcore P20i
4.2
3.5
2.7
JBL Vibe Beam
2.8
4.1
2.5
Amazon Echo
3.0
2.3
2.5
The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 impressed us with a beautifully balanced mix and a rich, immersive soundstage. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The most impressive sound quality came from the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4, which has a balanced mix that isn't heavy in any one area. Those who prefer a neutral profile will love these buds, while those who enjoy heavy bass might find them somewhat lacking. Their cinematic feel brings a richness and depth we didn't experience in the competition. Close on their heels are the Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2). These earbuds are incredible with bass, mids, and highs that offer outstanding quality, but those who aren't a fan of a bass-forward mix might not love them. Rounding out the top four are the Apple AirPod Pro 3 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra, with the Pro 3 improving on what the Apple AirPod Pro 2 brought to the table.
The ear tip seal on the Vibe Beam is good, allowing a more immersive listening experience, but the immersion is a subpar soundscape. Credit: Abriah Wofford
The lowest performers in our sound quality tests are the JBL Vibe Beam. These budget buds fall short in every measure with a very thin, hollow, and tinny sound. They were so unimpressive that some testers were surprised JBL would claim them. Other disappointing contenders for worst sound quality include the ultra-cheap Soundcore P20i, Amazon Echo Buds 2023, and the Beats Studio Buds +. All of these options scored far below the average, and while they might be suitable for podcasts or audiobooks, they remain lackluster and dull when it comes to musical stylings.
We use our head simulator and SoundCheck software to augment our expert ear listening feedback with the Nothing Ear Wireless. Credit: Natalie Kafader
A handful of reasonably priced options performed well in our sound quality tests, even if they couldn't match the stellar performance of higher-priced products. The Nothing Ear Wireless, CMF Buds 2 Plus, and the EarFun Air Pro 4 were not the best in the group, but for the price, we think they punch above their weight with a respectable range and a pleasing overall mix. The JLab Go Pop+ comes in slightly below the average, but we suspect the average listener who enjoys podcasts and music will be pleased and enjoy the savings. We think they offer a warm, rich midrange with powerful enough bass, even if the instruments get slightly crowded at higher volumes.
We analyze each pair of wireless earbuds for sound quality, frequency ranges, and soundstage. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Soundstage
Having a great soundstage is the earbuds' ability to place the instrument, singer, or elements around you, rather than feeling like they emanate from a single speaker. While not the easiest thing for a wireless earbud to achieve, some options have the ability to truly immerse you in sound, much like being center stage at Red Rocks surrounded by instruments.
An expansive soundstage, like that with the Bose (Gen 2), can make you feel like you're live in person instead of wherever you are. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2) Earbuds and Bose QuietComfort Ultra are the top performers in terms of soundstage, providing an experience akin to being there with the band. They provide an impressive sound bath listening experience, drenching you in the moment. Sennheiser Momentum TW4, Google Pixel Buds Pro 2, Sony WF-1000XM5, Apple AirPods Pro 3, and the Technics EAH-AZ100 round out the top options for soundstage.
The Bose Open Ultra are so comfortable we forgot they were on and stay put even when active. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Comfort & Fit
Earbud comfort is a personal experience that varies based on factors such as ear shape, size, piercings, and more. Finding a good fit that stays in place and is comfortable for hours is key to enjoying your earbuds in the long term. No matter how good the sound might be, comfort determines if earbuds get used or left behind.
Features that influence comfort include the ear tip material, shape, and size, as well as the ability to customize, and the overall weight and size. Designs that help achieve a secure fit also impact comfort and can either enhance or hinder the experience, especially if you plan to use them while being active. Finding the most comfortable and secure pair for you is essential, and we recommend that you immediately assess any new buds for comfort and fit when you still have time to return them.
The Bose Ultra Open are hands down the most comfortable in the group with a clip-on design. Credit: Isaac Laredo
The most comfortable earbuds were the Bose Ultra Open. These earbuds have a unique design that sits outside the ear canal, avoiding issues with pressure or size inhibiting comfort. However, this very feature means they don't have passive or active noise cancellation, and the sound isn't as immersive. They do, however, offer greater transparency, so you have a better awareness of your surroundings. They are featherweight and don't get that “wet” slipperiness when sweating. These buds are also secure when moving at speed, working out, or having fun.
The foam tips on the Sony help create one of the most comfortable in-ear buds in the review. Credit: Abriah Wofford
The most comfortable in-ear buds are the Apple AirPods Pro 3. These lightweight buds have multiple soft silicone tips and fit securely in the ear canal without getting moist or too stuffy. Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 are also a comfortable pair; they are smaller and lighter than previous versions, and their shape fits better in most ears than the traditional oval design. These passed our headstand and running tests, but one bud flew out during serious headbanging. The Galaxy Buds 3 Pro round out the top teir choices with a stem design similar to the AirPods.
The CMF Buds 2 Plus have a lightweight, comfortable fit similar to AirPod Pros. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Sony WF-1000XM5 offers something different with foam tips and a lightweight design. The foam tips are more comfortable than silicone, but they don't last as long. They are super secure and survived our running, headstands, and headbanging tests without dislodging. The Nothing Ear and CMF Buds 2 are also very comfortable, making them the best of the more affordable options.
The Amazon Echo and the PowerBeats Pro2 earbuds are very secure, but very uncomfortable.
The most uncomfortable options, in our opinion, are the Amazon Echo, which one tester wanted to burn for their lack of comfort alone, and the Apple Airpods 4 ANC. Both have an open design that lacks an in-ear tip. The Amazon Echo has a sharper edge that causes pain, while the 4 ANC are just not comfortable. Other uncomfortable options include Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 and the TOZO T10. They were relatively comfortable at first with the Powerbeats' hard plastic making them less desirable than the TOZO, but both grew more uncomfortable the longer we wore them. Both felt very secure, but the discomfort level negates any security.
The Bose Ultra Open design leaves your ear canal completely unobstructed and intentionally provides no noise cancelation properties. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Noise Cancellation
Wireless earbuds are easy to wear in noisy offices, rumbling buses, and busy sidewalks. That's where noise cancellation features get a chance to shine, separating the earbuds that simply reduce distractions from those that create true calm amid the chaos.
The noise cancellation graph shows how many decibels each earbud blocks at each frequency level.
Without active noise cancellation, the JLab Go Pop+ earbuds can isolate your eardrums from some surrounding sounds. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Passive noise isolation physically blocks noise from hitting the eardrum by sealing the ear canal. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) uses technology designed to block low, consistent tones (such as an air conditioner) as well as higher-pitched street noises or the chatter of a hopping cafe. ANC actively attempts to neutralize sound waves by creating destructive frequencies using opposing sound waves.
Active Nose Cancellation Isn't for Everyone
Active noise cancellation can be uncomfortable for some users, and you won't know until you try. Choosing buds with adjustable noise cancellation might ease some or all related discomfort.
ANC Performance by Frequency Range
Product
Low
Mid
High
Airpods Pro 3
30.7
29.7
33.8
Sony WF-1000XM5
22.0
25.5
42.9
Bose QC Ultra (Gen 2)
26.0
31.2
30.6
Bose QC Ultra
32.2
28.6
24.5
Bose QuietComfort
25.7
26.2
31.2
AirPods Pro 2
28.9
28.9
24.9
Technics EAH-AZ100
25.5
26.7
26.3
Galaxy Buds3 Pro
26.2
26.8
24.8
Pixel Buds Pro 2
28.0
26.2
23.4
Powerbeats Pro 2
21.0
24.0
30.1
Sennheiser Momentum
18.7
23.9
31.6
EarFun Air Pro 4
17.7
23.7
29.0
JLab Go Pop++
8.9
23.9
31.3
CMF Buds 2 Plus
17.0
16.2
30.2
Nothing Ear
17.6
21.7
24.0
Beats Studio Buds +
12.6
18.5
29.1
TOZO T10
9.6
18.4
28.7
Soundcore P20i
6.6
20.3
27.6
JBL Vibe Beam
3.1
18.2
27.8
Bowers & Wilkins
5.7
13.0
28.9
Powerbeats Pro
1.6
9.0
26.9
Airpods 4 ANC
6.6
7.5
10.6
Amazon Echo
0.0
0.0
5.5
Bose Ultra Open
0.0
0.0
1.0
This chart compares products with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) as a feature.
The best buds for noise cancellation are the AirPods Pro 3, Sony WF-1000XM5, and the Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2) in that order. The Apple AirPods, the new kid on the block, killed in our tests, blocking more ambient sound than we've ever experienced. Sony comes in close behind with results that the casual listener might not even notice differ from the Pro 3. Most of the Bose QuietComfort lineup works well and decreases noise from each range, with the Ultra Gen 2 improving on all other iterations of this earbud. While none of the competition can compete with an over-ear ANC headphone, these are the best of the bunch. For budget-conscious individuals, the Nothing Ear Wireless and the CMF Buds are likely your best options if you want the best noise cancellation on a limited budget.
Unmute to hear the exceptional noise cancellation of the Apple AirPods Pro 3. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Several contenders in our lineup do not include ANC capabilities and rely solely on passive noise cancellation, so they may disappoint if noise cancellation is your primary goal. For those that offer ANC, the lowest scorer was the Apple AirPods 4 ANC; they are slightly better than the non-ANC version, but not by much. The Bose Ultra Open also scores low for noise cancellation, but in fairness, it offers neither ANC nor passive isolation by design to bring you more transparency.
The Technics has a straightforward app and pairing process. Credit: Natalie Kafader
App Features
Theoretically, you can simply plug wireless earbuds into your ears and be good to go, but in practice, many require more customization or setup to get them working properly. Some earbuds require manual pairing, while others allow for customization of features, making them more involved than your typical pair of wired earbuds.
Sony offers an easy-to-use app with adjustable EQ and other popular functions. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The best apps and features belong to the Sony WF-1000XM5, and the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4. These two offer some of the most features and easiest customization.
The CMF Buds app is beyond what we expected for earbuds in this price bracket. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Following close behind are the CMF Buds 2 Plus, Technics EAH-AZ100, Nothing Ear Wireless, and the EarFun Air Pro 4. All but the Technic are budget picks, and we were really impressed that they offered more for the price than some premium buds. Bose still misses the mark, lacking the ability to turn off active noise cancellation, and Apple stands out for not having a dedicated app; instead, it works within the iOS system as a whole.
Wired versus Wireless
Unlike wireless earbuds, wired options typically do not include an app and offer few (if any) customizations. Many smartphones don't even include a headphone jack, further limiting the use of wired buds.
The Bowers & Wilkins app is pretty bare bones for a high-dollar set of buds. Credit: Abriah Wofford
The most disappointing option is the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2. The app is basic and doesn't allow for much adjustment. It doesn't have an ear fit test or location tracking, and for the price, it feels like you should get more (indeed, some budget buds are giving far more).
Battery Life
How long the battery lasts can mean a lot or a little, depending on how you plan to use your earbuds. If you have long days filled with commuting, blocking out work, and heading to the gym, a longer battery life will feel essential. If a compelling set of buds doesn't have a long life, you might be able to get by with a quick charge to give you an extra hour or some significant downtime to get a full charge, finishing the day strong.
The best batteries in the bunch belong to the Technics EAH-AZ100, which lasts over 14 hours, and the Apple AirPods Pro 3 and the CMF Buds Plus, both of which last almost 13 hours on a single charge. Each offers at least three additional charges in the case, but we suspect you won't need that unless you travel on a long flight overseas. The shortest battery life is the Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2 with a measly 3 hours. They are awfully expensive for such a short period of use. Possibly the most disappointing, however, are the Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2). With a runtime of just under six hours, they lasted twice as long as the Bowers & Wilkins, but because they are so impressive in other ways, it feels like a bigger disappointment.
The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds struggle to make clear calls. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Call Quality
If you plan to use your earbuds for making calls, it's nice to have a pair with a microphone that can isolate your voice from background noise, making it easier to carry on a conversation.
In addition to regular calls to family and friends, we placed test calls in a quiet room, a moderate office environment, and an incredibly loud subway station for comparison purposes.
If we were to choose any pair of buds to make a call in a crowded room, we'd reach for the Apple AirPods Pro 2. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Apple AirPods Pro 3 are like a gossip girl's dream call makers. Even when strolling by a highway or passing a train, the person we were speaking to couldn't hear the background sound, just our voice! The Bose Open Ultra also earned high marks, picking up voices clearly even in chaotic environments. This is even more impressive given that the open design of the Open Ultras. Rounding out our top callers are the Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2) Earbuds, Nothing Ear Wireless, and Beats Studio Buds +.
When we conducted a phone call test with a subway recording in the background, the Sony WF-1000XM5's result was one of the worst. Credit: Graham Faulknor
The worst call quality by far is the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2. These buds have excessive static and a grainy quality to all voices in a quiet room. When we amp up the ambient sound to a subway platform, you can't hear anything, and the words are garbled. The Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2, Technics, and Soundcore P20i are also nothing to sing about, making them poor choices if you plan to use your buds for phone calls.
The Nothing Ear Wireless offer a lot but don't cost a lot. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Momentum TW 4 are a more expensive earbud, but the sound quality might justify the price if you have money to spare and want the best sound. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Bose Ultra Open offer impressive comfort and increased transparency to keep you aware of your surroundings. Credit: Natalie Kafader
How to Choose Wireless Earbuds
Finding the best earbuds to suit your needs and goals can be easy with a few straightforward considerations.
Choosing a price range can narrow the field right away, as most people don't have much wiggle room in their budget. If you can't afford $400 earbuds, why consider them at all? If you know your limit, stick to it. Buying the best you can afford can make your wallet and your ears happy. Most casual listeners can likely find an above-average, reasonably priced set of buds that will make them very happy without breaking the bank.
Choosing the best pair for your ear shape, size, and the duration you'll be wearing them is important. It doesn't matter how great the sound is or how easy the app is to use, if they are uncomfortable at first or become so over time, you are likely to dread wearing them or worse, buying a second pair.
Finding the best sound quality within your budget helps ensure you will be pleased listening to all your favorite songs. Our tests provide the information you need to find the best sound profile within your budget, so you can be confident that you're getting the best experience possible.
Which features are essential depend on your goals, but some to consider would be noise cancellation, call quality, or ease of use. If you make a lot of calls, finding buds with clear sound and a high-quality microphone is important. Impressive noise cancellation could be key if you want a peaceful experience, one that immerses you in whatever you are listening to, blocking out the ambient noise around you.
AirPods 3 have a Find My feature. Credit: Abriah Wofford
The Beats Solo Buds didn't make our final selection of impressive contenders. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Bose QuietComfort II are fairly large but offer impressive call quality and noise cancelation. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Other Notable Wireless Earbuds
Our selection and award winners strive to find the most compelling and well-regarded earbuds on the market. However, the market is vast, and some options may be captivating to a smaller audience beyond the masses. With that in mind, we present other intriguing fare below.
Sony WF-C710N — Some call these Sony buds an affordable alternative to the Sony WF-1000XM5, and at less than half the price, we can see why they are an intriguing option. With a clear case and an oval bud design, they feature silicone tips instead of foam and are relatively comfortable despite their bulk. Their real claim to fame, though, is impressive active noise cancellation, which exceeds what their pay range indicates. We didn't test them because user consensus online suggests that most listeners aren't particularly impressed, making them less exciting unless they are on sale.
JBL Vibe Buds True Wireless — These budget earbuds from JBL might be attractive to those seeking to save money while investing in a well-known brand. However, given that none of the JBL earbuds or wireless headphones we've tested have performed very well, we can't bring ourselves to give one of the cheaper options a chance when the more expensive JBL Vibe Beam were lackluster at best, with one of the lowest overall performances in the group.
Beats Solo Buds — In our tests, this set of buds really didn't do anything well. Despite the lower price, we weren't impressed with the sound quality and think there are better potential buds at lower and slightly higher price points. While we understand the desire to find inexpensive buds that can also bring joy, we don't think these are that.
Bose QuietComfort II — We've included the Bose QuietComfort, Bose QuietComfort Ultra, and the Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2) in our main review. The Ultra (Gen 2) earned an award for best overall earbuds, and the original QuietComfort has an impressively low price and better sound quality than the II. While it couldn't match the app features, we think all of them are more compelling than the QuietComfort II.
There are hundreds of wireless earbuds in the world, but only a handful will be perfect for you and your needs. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Conclusion
In a world bursting with wireless earbuds, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. With features and functions that may be new or require a deeper understanding of technology, finding the best pair for your needs and budget is more complicated than ever. It comes down to balancing cost, comfort, and sound quality with the features that best suit your needs. Whether you're taking calls at the office, blocking out distracting sounds at the coffee shop, or chasing the ultimate immersive audio experience, our picks can help you find the right option to meet your goals.
—Rachael Lamore, Clark Tate, and Genaveve Bradshaw
