If you’re in the market for a new pair of earbuds, you may be overwhelmed by the sheer number of options available. From budget-friendly options to high-end professional-grade earbuds, the range of prices is vast. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the best earbuds in different categories to help you make an informed choice.
Wired or wireless: Which is better?
One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether you prefer wired or wireless earbuds. Wired earbuds are a great option if you have a tighter budget or don’t want to worry about battery life. However, it can be challenging to find wired earbuds with active noise cancellation. On the other hand, wireless earbuds offer the convenience of no tangled wires and usually come with active noise cancellation features. To help you decide, we’ve tested and reviewed a range of wired and wireless earbuds to determine the best options.
Best earbuds for sound: Sony WF-1000XM5
The Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds are perfect for those who value great active noise cancellation and exceptional sound quality. These earbuds offer highly customizable equalizer settings, allowing you to find the perfect sound profile for your ears. The foam ear tips provide a comfortable and secure fit, and the ANC feature is top-notch. While the battery life falls slightly short of Sony’s claims, these earbuds still deliver an excellent listening experience.
Best noise-cancelling earbuds: Bose QuietComfort Ultra
If noise cancellation is your top priority, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds are worth investing in. These earbuds offer the best ANC experience we’ve encountered, surpassing even popular brands like Apple and Beats. The customizable stability bands ensure a tight and comfortable seal, effectively blocking out unwanted noise. While these earbuds lack functional multipoint pairing, the ANC, comfort, and sound quality make them a top choice.
Best for Apple users: Apple AirPods Pro (USB-C)
If you’re an Apple device owner, the Apple AirPods Pro are a seamless option that pairs effortlessly with multiple devices. These earbuds excel in active noise cancellation and produce a rich and well-balanced sound. The convenience features, such as Conversational Awareness and Adaptive Audio, enhance your listening experience. While Android users miss out on some features, the AirPods Pro still deliver excellent ANC and sound quality.
Best wired earbuds: Marshall Mode
For those who prefer wired headphones, the Marshall Mode earbuds offer clean and well-rounded audio at an affordable price. These earbuds are lightweight, durable, and comfortable to wear for extended periods. While the lack of a detachable wire is a drawback, the Marshall Mode earbuds deliver on their promise of functionality and sound quality.
Best budget earbuds: Anker Soundcore P20i
Surprisingly, the Anker Soundcore P20i earbuds offer an impressive array of features at a budget-friendly price. With customizable equalizer presets and touch controls, these earbuds compete with higher-priced options. The battery life is exceptional, outperforming even more expensive models. While they lack active noise cancellation, these earbuds provide a decent listening experience at an affordable cost.
Best workout earbuds: Beats Fit Pro
The Beats Fit Pro earbuds are ideal for workouts, offering top-notch audio, long battery life, and all-day comfort. These earbuds provide six hours of playtime with ANC on, surpassing the battery life of even more expensive options like AirPods Pro. The flexible wingtips keep the earbuds securely in place during workouts, ensuring a hassle-free exercise session. While Android users miss out on some features, the Beats Fit Pro deliver excellent sound quality and battery life.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pair of earbuds can be overwhelming, but considering your priorities and preferences can help narrow down your options. Whether you prioritize sound quality, active noise cancellation, compatibility with Apple devices, affordability, or workout functionality, there’s a pair of earbuds on this list for you. By thoroughly testing and reviewing each option, we’ve curated a selection of the best earbuds in each category to help you make an informed decision.
