We buy all the products we test — no freebies from companies. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission, which helps support our testing.
Wireless earbuds are personal choice personified. You choose the earbuds, music, the podcast, the book. All other opinions are lost in this moment with a playlist for one. They make a long day shorter, a commute quieter, and somehow, a workout stronger. Turn down the noise and turn up the vibe anytime, untethered.
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 Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro. 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. The CMF costs significantly less than $100 and, frankly, might be all most listeners need for happiness.
Our expert panel of audio testers used the top 21 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.
We're committed to helping you find the right audio for your needs. You can find more contenders in our wired earbuds review, or budget headphones. If in-ear buds are not your jam, wireless headphones might be a better fit, literally.
Editor's Note: We updated our wireless earbud review in October 2026 with new information to help you decide which pairs are best and by removing discontinued products.
Quick Picks
Here's a quick list of our favorite Wireless Earbud recommendations.
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2) Earbuds offer a beautiful balance of exceptional sound and noise cancellation. Bose really delivers a nuanced, layered world with space for each instrument and a clean separation that allowed us to savor each note. The noise cancellation reduces sound by an average of 29.3 dB, with the Bose doing the most work in the mids and trebles. It is a tight race to a photo finish on which buds are the best, with the Bose Gen 2 vying for a top spot.
These earbuds are not that comfortable, which is really a shame because they knock almost everything out of the park, which means we wanted to wear them all the time, but the fit stopped us. As one tester stated, “They sound so good, and I could make clear calls, but the comfort just isn't there for non-stop wear.” The Bose are also expensive, which could be a deal breaker for many. The Airpods Pro 3 and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro were both significantly more comfortable and cheaper. However, if you don't want to be tied to a single operating system or have less functionality, then the Bose are just the ticket.
The Apple AirPods Pro 3 are a shoo-in for those in the Apple ecosystem. While others might love them too, we felt they truly shine when married to our iOS devices. These buds provided soak-worthy sound, surrounding us with texture and wonder. When paired with some of the best active noise cancellation we've ever seen, it created a solitary concert experience for one whenever we pleased (which was often). We also thought the Pro 3s were super comfortable, and chatting with family or friends was always crystal clear.
The Pro 3s are on the expensive side, but not the most expensive in the group. If money is tight, the Nothing Ear can save you about $100, but they aren't quite the same caliber. The Pro3s also lack certain features when paired with non-Apple devices because there is no app. We prefer the Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro for the Android lovers. These minor hiccups aside, we absolutely love the Pros and think anyone who can afford them (iOS or Android) will adore them as well.
The Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro could be the droid companions you are looking for (sorry, we couldn't help it). While they struggle somewhat to match the Pro 3s call quality (though they are clear), they offer top-tier sound and noise cancellation on par with the AirPods. The music has clean separation between instruments, and the width is expansive, leaving breathing room. We also loved the comfortable fit and the multiple ear tips that helped us find just the right size for each tester.
We don't think the Galaxy has the best call quality, but it is still better than average and gets the job done. Honestly, given how infrequently most people use their phones to chat, this may be a non-issue. If you like to chat the day away, both the Apple AirPods Pro 3 and the Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2) deliver better call quality, especially in noisy environments. They also don't have a multi-point connection, though we suspect most folks don't use this, but if you do, it could be a deal breaker. As one tester said, “I use my laptop and phone together a lot, and I miss not being able to hear both.” In the end, we think the sleek Galaxy Buds4 are special and one of the best choices for Android users.
The Google Pixel Buds 2a are a kick-butt pair of buds that surprise on almost every level. Who knew cheaper buds could bring it with superior comfort, and better than average sound quality and noise cancellation? Seriously, these bad boys can even manage regular phone calls without frustrating either participant. We were blown away with their pleasant mix, precise soundstage, and warm but not overly dramatic bass.
While these buds don't have Apple-specific features, they pair with Apple phones just as easily as Android phones. One tester even remarked, “I don't care that they don't go with my iPhone, they're so darn comfortable I don't miss the features.” There isn't much to dislike about the Buds 2a; while they weren't the best at anything but comfort, they are better than average at everything and punch way, way, way above their price point. Anything better requires a serious pay bump, making the Pixel Buds 2a ones we'd recommend to anyone looking for a great pair of reasonably priced wireless earbuds who don't want to sacrifice much.
The 2as are lightweight and comfortable with multiple ear tips to choose from. We thought they were comfortable for more than 9 hours of wear time. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Nothing Ear Wireless are nothing short of amazing. With a reasonable price tag (for wireless earbuds), we weren't expecting much, but the sound spreads wide and evokes a sense of space. They have a thumpy bass and natural-sounding mids. The Nothing Earbuds have a design similar to the Galaxy or the AirPods Pro3, and we liked the fit well enough for almost 8 hours of continuous wear. The case is lovely (we love the attention to detail), and the call quality is better than most, with no cheaper bud even coming close to its clarity.
The Nothing Ear didn't blow us away with noise cancellation. We know it's there, we can tell it's working hard, but we think it could be better, making it less appealing for those seeking more focus. As one tester said, “I would say they muffle the outside world as opposed to blocking it; dog barks are muted, but even dog panting still breaks through.” For budget buds, better noise cancellation is available in the Google Pixel Buds 2a and the EarFun, both of which cost less. Overall, the Nothing Ear are a little something that feels like a treat for a price lower than similarly performing competitors, which makes them buds we would recommend for those who want to feel high-end, but want to save money.
The Nothing Ear is a budget-friendly option that provides better-than-average sound quality, comfort, app features, and call quality. Credit: Natalie Kafader
If affordability is top of mind but enjoying music is also important, the CMF Buds 2 Plus are ready to enter the chat. These simple, straightforward buds are exceptionally low-priced yet feel better than most cheap buds. If we didn't know their price tag, we would have guessed higher. The case has a fun fidget corner, and the overall fit and comfort are better than some buds that cost 4 times more. The sound is good enough for most listeners, with our tester stating, “They have a nice presence for the mids, giving lead vocals warmth and an emphasis to stand out a little from the rest of the range.”
The CMF isn't perfect, which isn't a surprise given its lower price. Their call quality is just below average, and their noise cancellation didn't blow us away. But to be fair, getting better noise cancellation will cost hundreds of dollars more, which could be an unreasonable ask in this economy. The EarFun Air Pro 4 has slightly better noise blocking power, and they are still under $100, but they aren't as comfortable, and their call quality is sub-par. Overall, we think most casual music lovers and podcast junkies will love the CMF and won't be bothered by any hiccups because the savings can't be beat, especially for their impressive performance overall.
The Sony WF-1000XM6 are the holy grail for those seeking a break from the chaos of the world. We found the best respite with the Sony XM6 as it blocked more decibels of sound across the ranges than any other option. They block an average of 32 dB, doing the heavy lifting in the upper ranges. We couldn't hear our typing or the microwave beeping, and the coffee grinder was just a whisper in the distance. They also deliver impressive sound quality, outperforming much of the competition with their wide, immersive soundstage. They have a vivid range of color and texture without becoming shrill or harsh.
Where Sony falls short is comfort. Most of us hated them and could barely manage 6 hours of continuous wear (and we were being paid to wear them). They are large and bulky, and finding the right-sized tip took more trial and error than with other buds. One tester notes, “They extended pretty far out of my ears. I caught them on arms, hoodies, and scarves. They aren't subtle.” These are also among the most expensive buds in the group, so we think you really have to be all about noise cancellation to bother ponying up the extra dollars. Because the Sony has average call quality, meh comfort, we think they aren't as well-rounded as other options, and users have to sacrifice some to get fewer distractions. If that is worth it to you, they could be a contender. If finding a more comfortable pair that can also make excellent phone calls, we'd choose the Apple AirPods Pro3 or the Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro. Both have great sound, impressive noise cancellation, better call quality, and superior comfort for a lower price.
The XM6 has some of the highest sound quality and noise cancellation scores in our tests. Combined, it creates an immersive experience we love. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 are for anyone who loves music and cares deeply about how it sounds. If layering, texture, soundstage, and nuance fill your soul with joy, we think the Momentum delivers in spades. We loved the distinctive layers with beautifully maintained timbres for each instrument and vocal line. We also appreciated the better-than-average noise cancellation, but, in all honesty, we'd skip the Momentum if our goal were to keep the world at bay.
The rest of the Momentum features and functions are generally just a smidge above average. Don't get us wrong, the call quality is good, the app is useful, and the comfort is good enough for almost 8 hours of wear, but for the price, it all feels lackluster. Sure, stellar music that feels like perfection in our bones is hard to ignore, but that has to be the only thing on your mind to pay this price. Otherwise, the Apple AirPods Pro3 and the Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro can save you money and are better in every way, with only a slight compromise in sound quality. For this reason, the Sennheiser is a niche product we think audiophiles will treasure, but most listeners will be happier with a different pair. As one tester put it, “I'd rather have the whole package than somewhat better sound. If I could only have one pair, they wouldn't be these for that reason.”
The Bose Ultra Open are a polarizing pair of buds thanks to their unique ear-hugging design that lets the world in while you listen to your playlist of choice. We personally love these buds and reach for them first thing every morning before even putting the coffee on. They feel invisible on our ears, the sound is good, and the call quality has us chatting more than usual. The best part is we had no issues with the fit, no reason to swap out tips, and no pressure or clogged feeling in our ears, which can be common with earbuds. It's like magic.
The Ultra Open doesn't have any noise-blocking capabilities because the design avoids blocking the ear canal; it lets ambient sound mix with whatever you are listening to. While not everyone's cup of tea, and it could be a deal-breaker, some of us really loved the environmental awareness without forgoing listening when we need to be alert. One tester remarked, “I'd given up on finding earbuds small enough for my ear canal, I hated the way traditional in-ear buds feel; the Open air is like finding out Santa is real and every day is Christmas.” The Bose aren't for everyone. Beyond comfort, they don't stand out in any way, and if noise cancellation or sound quality is important to you, they will disappoint. But if you want awareness or superior comfort, we think they are worth the extra cash.
The Ultra Open are so comfortable you might forget you're wearing them. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Product Comparison Table
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 55 wireless earbuds in our audio lab and in the real world. Our audio experts judged how each pair sounds, fits, and functions. We worked with the experts at Listen Inc., using the Brüel & Kjaer head simulator and SoundCheck software to analyze performance.
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.
Comfort and Fit (25% of score) — We examine each pair's comfort and fit over continued wear and stability under regular use.
Noise Cancellation (20% of score) — We test how well each bud blocks external sound. We also test transparency modes.
App Features (10% of score) — We assess controls, related app, and general features for ease of use and customization.
Call Quality (10% of score)-- We consider 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 roster of clients, 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, app 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?
While this is a gear type where you often get what you pay for, there are some impressive lower-priced options we love. 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. The Nothing Ear Wireless is also compelling. While they cost twice as much as the CMF, they are often half the price of premium buds. They have better sound quality, impressive comfort, and good active noise cancellation (ANC) and call quality. With above-average performance, it is hard not to love them.
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2) impressed with their wildly immersive soundscape. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Sound Quality
We considered each pair across various music genres, assessing the mix of highs, lows, and everything in between. The main factor in achieving impressive sound quality is how well the buds transmit across the full range, from treble to bass.
Expert Panel Sound Quality Ratings
Product
Bass
Mid-Range
Treble
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4
8.7
9.0
8.9
Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2) Earbuds
8.7
8.4
9.0
Sony WF-1000XM6
8.5
8.8
8.1
Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro
8.2
8.5
7.9
Apple Airpods Pro 3
8.4
8.3
7.8
Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro
7.6
8.3
7.8
Nothing Ear Wireless
8.4
7.5
7.0
Bose QuietComfort
8.0
7.3
7.3
Technics EAH-AZ100
7.8
8.0
6.8
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2
7.9
7.3
7.3
Google Pixel Buds 2a
7.9
7.4
6.9
Sony WF-1000XM5
6.8
7.7
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
7.7
7.0
Apple Airpods 4 ANC
5.0
7.3
6.8
JLab Go Pop+
5.8
6.6
5.5
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2
7.4
6.3
4.0
Beats by Dre 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
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 overemphasized in any one area. We love the neutral profile, but they lack heavy bass, which could be a turn-off for some listeners. 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 deliver incredible bass, mids, and highs, but they do have a bass-forward mix that isn't for everyone. Rounding out the top options are the Sony WF-1000XM6 and the Apple AirPod Pro 3, both of which improved on prior versions.
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 performer for sound quality is the JBL Vibe Beam. These cheap buds have a very thin, hollow, and tinny sound. They were so unimpressive that we were surprised JBL claims them. Other disappointing contenders for worst sound quality include the dirt-cheap Soundcore P20i and the Beats Studio Buds +. While they perform far below average in terms of music enjoyment, they are suitable for podcasts and audiobooks.
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 buds have good sound quality, even if they couldn't match the stellar performance of pricier contenders. The Nothing Ear Wireless, CMF Buds 2 Plus, and the EarFun Air Pro 4 don't have the best sound, but for the price, they offer a surprisingly respectable range and a pleasing overall mix. The JLab Go Pop+ comes in slightly below average, but we suspect the average listener will be happy to take advantage of the savings. We think they offer a warm, rich midrange, with bass that is powerful enough, 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 means the earbuds can place instruments, singers, or other elements in specific locations, rather than feeling like they emanate from a single speaker. While not the easiest thing for a wireless earbud to achieve, some contenders truly bathed us 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 the Sony WF-1000XM6 have the best soundstage, providing an experience akin to being live with the band. They provide an impressive immersive listening experience, drenching you in the moment. Sennheiser Momentum TW4, Apple AirPods Pro 3, and the Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro round out the top options for soundstage.
The Bose Open Ultra are so comfortable we forgot they were on, and they 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 listening joy. No matter how good the sound is, comfort determines whether earbuds are used or left behind.
Features that influence comfort include the ear tip material, shape, and size; the ability to customize; and overall weight and size. Designs that help achieve a secure fit also affect comfort and can enhance or hinder fit, especially when worn during activity. Finding the most comfortable and secure pair 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. We loved how easily they disappeared from our ears, even after all-day wear. These earbuds have a unique design that sits outside the ear canal, avoiding pressure or size issues that can inhibit comfort. However, this very feature means they don't have passive or active noise cancellation, and the sound isn't as spectacular as that of other Bose competitors. They do, however, offer greater transparency, giving us a much better sense of our surroundings. They are featherweight and don't get that “wet” slipperiness when sweating. They are also secure when moving at speed, working out, or having fun.
The foam tips on the Sony XM5 help create one of the most comfortable in-ear buds in the review. Credit: Abriah Wofford
The Sony XM6 (left) vs the Sony XM5 (right). Credit: Matt Lighthart
The most comfortable in-ear buds are the Google Pixel Buds 2a and 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 most ears better than the traditional oval design. We were even able to wear them while running and practicing headstands, though we lost one while rocking out to some thrash metal.
The PowerBeats Pro2 earbuds are very secure, but very uncomfortable. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The most uncomfortable options, in our opinion, are the 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 negated any sense of security. We did enjoy the Powerbeats Pro at the gym, since we never had to worry about them falling out, even when box jumping or using the battle ropes.
The Bose Ultra Open design leaves your ear canal completely unobstructed and intentionally provides no noise cancellation 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 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
There are two kinds of noise cancellation: Passive and Active. 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. At least one of our testers preferred buds without ANC.
ANC Performance by Frequency Range
Product
Low
Mid
High
Sony WF-1000XM6
32.6
27.3
36.7
Apple Airpods Pro 3
30.7
29.7
33.8
Sony WF-1000XM5
22.0
25.5
42.9
Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2) Earbuds
26.0
31.2
30.6
Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro
29.7
27.3
29.8
Bose QuietComfort
25.7
26.2
31.2
Technics EAH-AZ100
25.5
26.7
26.3
Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro
26.2
26.8
24.8
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2
28.0
26.2
23.4
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2
21.0
24.0
30.1
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4
18.7
23.9
31.6
Google Pixel Buds 2a
25.1
26.0
22.6
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 Wireless
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 Pi7 S2
5.7
13.0
28.9
Beats by Dre Powerbeats Pro
1.6
9.0
26.9
Apple Airpods 4 ANC
6.6
7.5
10.6
Bose Ultra Open
0.0
0.0
1.0
This chart compares products with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) as a feature.
The noise cancellation on the XM6 is some of the best we've ever seen, or heard, or not heard. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The best buds for noise cancellation are the Sony WF-1000XM6 and the Apple AirPods Pro 3, with the Sony WF-1000XM5, and the Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2) following in that order. The Sony XM6 had the highest overall decibel reduction of 32 dB. The Apple AirPods came very close to this, blocking 31.3 dB overall. Sony XM5 comes in close behind, with results that the casual listener might not even notice differ from those of the Pro 3 or XM6. Most of the Bose QuietComfort lineup works well and reduces noise across the 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 our favorite options for 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 lack ANC and rely solely on passive noise cancellation, so they may disappoint if noise cancellation is your primary goal.
The Technics has a straightforward app and pairing process. Credit: Natalie Kafader
App Features
Theoretically, wireless earbuds should be easy to pair, set up, and use, but in practice, many require more customization or setup to work properly. Some earbuds require manual pairing or an app, while others allow feature customization, making them more involved than traditional 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 easiest customization, simple user interfaces, and the Sony XM5 has foam tips. Bose 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. Though this makes them less useful for non-iOS users.
Wired versus Wireless
Unlike wireless earbuds, wired options typically lack an app and offer few (if any) customization options. Many smartphones don't even include a headphone jack, further limiting the use of wired buds.
The most disappointing options are the Beats by Dre Powerbeats Pro and the TOZO T10. The TOZO requires unpairing from one device before pairing with another. The app is super cluttered and seems focused on social media, which feels useless for everyday use. Plus, despite being marketed as suitable for some water fun, ours died the moment they broke the water's surface and never worked again.
The Sony XM6 (left) and the Sony XM5 (right) have some of the longest battery lives in the group. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Battery Life
How long the battery lasts can mean a lot or a little, depending on listening goals. For extended days commuting, working, and heading to the gym, a longer battery life will feel essential. If a compelling set of buds doesn't have a long life, it might be possible to get an extra hour with a quick charge 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 (but they aren't a standout in any other capacity). The Sony WF-1000XM5 is closer to 14 hours flat with the ANC off. The Apple AirPods Pro 3, CMF Buds Plus, and Sony WF-1000XM6 all last over 12 hours on a single charge. Each case offers at least three additional charges, but we suspect you won't need them unless you're on a long overseas flight. The shortest battery life is the Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2). We only got just shy of 6 hours of listening before the battery died, but because they are so impressive in other ways (and the price is higher), it feels like a bigger disappointment. Their case has 3 charges and a 10-minute quick-charge feature, but we still had to keep an eye on how we used them and when we could tuck them away for charging.
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 exhibit excessive static and a grainy quality in quiet rooms, affecting all voices. When we amp up the ambient sound to a subway platform, you can't hear anything, and the words are garbled. The Technics EAH-AZ100 and Soundcore P20i are also nothing to sing about. We wouldn't want to use them for making regular calls or meetings, but they will do in a pinch.
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 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, end up buying a second pair.
Finding the best sound quality within your budget helps ensure you will be pleased when listening to your favorite songs. If you listen to more podcasts and audiobooks than rich, layered music, this might be less important to you, and you can save hundreds of dollars by skipping the spendy buds and their stellar sound.
Which features are essential depend on your goals, but some to consider include noise cancellation, call quality, and 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 by blocking out ambient noise around you. Alternatively, an open design could be just the ticket for those who value awareness.
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.
Soundcore P20i — These inexpensive buds are no standouts, and you might wonder who they would be best for. After two years of use, we can confidently say they are best for those who forget stuff in their pockets before throwing clothes in the wash. One teen in particular has run these bad boys through the washer no less than 5 times, and they still work well. While they won't wow anyone with spectacular sound, they get the job done for anyone who struggles to care for their gear as they should.
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 intriguing. With a clear case and an oval bud design, they feature silicone tips instead of foam and are relatively comfortable despite their bulk. 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 a cheaper JBL a chance when the more expensive JBL Vibe Beam were lackluster at best.
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.
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 to you 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 you need. 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
