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How does SoundGuys choose the best wireless earbuds?
We try to get as much hands-on time with products as possible before declaring them one of the best. This means that the products on this list have been put through our full review process. We also spend hours browsing through forums and discussions within the audio community. Even if we’ve already reviewed a product, we do this to get as much of a birds-eye view of the landscape as possible.
Why you should get wireless earbuds
We’re witnessing a wireless epoch. It’s no longer niche or novel to listen completely untethered on your way to work. Technological advancements have lowered the financial barrier to entry, and cheap wireless options are readily available to budget listeners.
Wireless earbuds can still be for you if you don’t commute, especially if you like to exercise. Nothing’s more convenient than listening completely wire-free. There are many great wireless workout earbuds for runners and gym rats alike. Numerous companies have gone the extra mile by getting products officially IP certified, but they also integrate useful athletic features (e.g., ear hook design, silicone wing tips, Ambient Aware mode).
While it’s true that battery depletion is a problem, resulting in a shortened lifetime of wireless earbuds compared to their on-ear or over-ear headphone alternatives, you’re paying a premium for convenience. For some of us, it’s easy to justify the cost. Others may be better off with wired earbuds or dealing with bulkier wireless headphones.
What are the longest-lasting wireless earbuds?
In terms of product lifespan, most wireless earbuds generally do not last more than three or four years, primarily due to battery degradation. Over time, these batteries lose their ability to hold a charge, resulting in reduced playback time and ultimately rendering the earbuds unusable. While some models might offer slightly better longevity due to the build quality, the small form factor inherently restricts their overall lifespan. To maximize the lifespan of wireless earbuds, it’s essential to follow best practices for battery care, such as avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures and not allowing the battery to fully deplete regularly.
I am looking for an overall best earbuds. I am willing to spend $400. I want to these earbuds for music, gym use and sometimes for gaming. So, which earbud do you think is the best right now? any advice? thanks in advance!
I did a quick google also and according to top sources these are the best wireless earbuds:
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Sony WF-1000XM5
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Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)
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Bose QuietComfort Ultra
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Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro
Not sure which one too choose. so, need help deciding.
I am currently using Sony WF-1000XM4 earbuds. I used to be, but I am no longer, a fan, because: 1) my ears hurt after a couple of hours, and 2) the battery now wears out very quickly - after about 1 hour of usage. On the plus side, at least my ears don't hurt anymore because they die quickly 😂
I am in the market for new ones. I checked out Sony's XM5 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds. I've read that Sony's still suffer from the same battery and comfort issues (WTF), and Bose's have connectivity issues (more WTF). These are deal breakers for me, especially when considering the price.
What would be considered the best earbuds pick in 2025? I don't care about the price if it's justified. My use case is open office work and cycling (so wind noise suppression matters). Oh also, I am rocking an Android phone, so AirPods won't work for me. I welcome your suggestions.
P.S. Sony and Bose seem to be considered top picks in general. Since I am not so keen on those for the reasons explained, I also checked out Soundcore A40 as a budget alternative and am curious to learn how you feel about those. Thanks y'all!
I originally posted this in r/Earbuds and they suggested I post here too.
This is part of my project to tinker with Reddit data and LLMs. Wanted to create something useful for the community while levelling up my coding chops.
The idea is to highlight which wireless earbuds got the most love. To be clear, most love =/= objectively best. But hopefully it’s a useful data point nonetheless, especially for those overwhelmed by the options.
Obviously this is a very general list. It gets way more interesting when you slice and dice the data.
If you want to dig into the data you can do so at the source / full interactive list
You can explore the data, read the comments, filter by price, subreddits, ANC, or filter for comments about sound quality, calls, using for gym, running, gaming etc. Disclaimer - the page has some affiliate links. You don’t have to use them, though they they help fund the analyses.
Methodology in the comments.