My AirPods broke & am looking for new in ear headphones. Preferably under 200$ I work in a factory & also go on planes a lot so they have to be noise canceling. I don’t really like the buds on most models but can deal. had the 2nd gen of AirPods. Also preferred if they don’t fall out of my ear 24/7 like AirPods do. Pls send your recs. Don’t know where to look & Best Buy doesn’t have 2nd gen AirPods anymore near me.

After testing a variety of in-ear earbuds this year, three really stood out to me. Each one earned its spot for different reasons, and I’m curious about your thoughts too!

Sony WF-1000XM5 have been my most well-rounded pair. The sound is rich and detailed, ANC is top-tier, and they’re super comfortable. Sony really nailed the fit this time and added reliable multipoint, making these perfect for everyday use. How do you feel about Sony’s noise cancellation and overall sound quality? Have you tried these yet?

Jabra Elite 7 Pro replaced my usual Apple earbuds. The thing that won me over was the incredible call quality and their secure, lightweight fit—they’re perfect for both work calls and workouts. Plus, the customizable EQ is a nice touch for fine-tuning the sound. If you’re not tied to the Apple ecosystem, would you give these a shot? How do you prioritize call quality in your earbuds?

Bose QuietComfort II are still my top pick for pure noise cancellation. The ANC is absolutely unmatched, and they stay comfy even during long listening sessions. They’re a bit bulkier, but totally worth it when I want to completely block everything out. If you’re all about noise isolation, how do these compare to your go-to earbuds?

Each of these serves a different need—Sony for overall performance, Jabra for calls and versatility, and Bose for unbeatable quiet. What’s your top pick for the year?

Hey everyone I want to upgrade my audio gear and need advice. I am torn between noise cancelling earbuds or over ear headphones and not sure which to choose

Here is what matters most

• Good noise isolation or active noise cancellation that blocks ambient noise but still lets me hear voices when needed

• Comfortable to wear for long sessions over 1 hour

• Solid sound quality with clear mids and decent bass not expecting audiophile level

• Reliable microphone for calls and online meetings

• Decent battery life

• Price range 200 to 300 USD

What I would like to hear from you

• What noise cancelling earbuds or headphones do you own or have tried

• What pros and cons did you notice

• For earbuds vs over ear which do you prefer for commuting or working in cafes

• Any hidden gem models I should check out.

Thank you guys, I hope to gather real user feedback before deciding.

Looking for the best earbuds. I currently have the Sony WF-XM5, and I have to say I’m pretty disappointed. The ANC is average, and without perfect passive seal, background noise leaks in quite easily. Sound quality isn’t bad.

The worst part is that during many work calls—even in a quiet room—the other side says I sound muffled, like I’m in a tunnel or an aquarium.

I’m looking for earbuds that deliver top-tier sound quality with excellent noise canceling and call performance.

Budget isn’t an issue, but I honestly don’t know what to choose anymore.

I was considering the Technics AZ100 or the JBL Tour Pro 3.

Will I actually notice an improvement over the Sonys? Is there something else that’s more recommended? I’m totally confused at this point.

so i finally started looking into the best noise cancelling headphones 2025 options… but wow, prices jumped.

i’m not chasing absolute top-tier ANC, just something that cuts the droning enough so i can work without hearing my neighbor’s blender every morning.

also trying to avoid headsets that weigh like small helmets. i made that mistake once; never again.

curious what frugal-friendly picks people landed on this year. anything that balances decent ANC + comfort + not costing my grocery budget?

open to suggestions, even used/refurb if that’s been a good route for anyone.

I saw a bunch of post about ranking the best Earbuds. I dug through a bunch of subreddits and post and came up with a recommendation list for the Top Noise Cancelling Earbuds. Here is my conclusion for every price point. Let me know what you think.

Elite ANC — Best All-Around

• Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen – Top overall ANC in 2025, industry-leading noise cancellation with adaptive tuning that blocks even low rumble and higher-freq distractions. Excellent comfort and app customization.

• Sony WF-1000XM5 – Best balance of ANC, sound, and features, premium soundstage, strong cancellation, superior call quality with AI-assisted noise reduction.

• Apple AirPods Pro 3 – Best ANC for Apple users, top-tier noise blocking and ecosystem perks (spatial audio, adaptive EQ). Tested as one of the strongest ANC performers ever.

Premium Performance

• Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro – Strong adaptive ANC with Galaxy AI integration and long battery life — great choice for Android users.

• Soundcore Liberty 5 NC – Best mid-range ANC, Dolby-enhanced audio, solid cancellation, and balanced sound above this price point.

Versatile & Feature-Rich

• JBL Tour Pro 3 – Great spatial sound and adaptive ANC with long battery life + smart case controls.

• Skullcandy Method 360 ANC – Solid ANC on a budget with Bose-tuned sound, perfect for everyday listeners.

Best Budget ANC

• JLab Go Pods ANC – Excellent entry-level ANC under $30 with hybrid noise cancelling and long total playtime, huge value pick.

Best Earbuds 2025: The Ultimate Guide to Sound, Comfort, and Innovation Wireless earbuds have evolved far beyond simple music accessories—they’re now powerful tools for productivity, fitness, travel, and immersive entertainment. In 2025, the competition is fiercer than ever, with brands like Apple, Sony, Bose, Samsung, and newcomers pushing the limits of noise cancellation, spatial audio, AI integration, and battery life. This guide breaks down the very best earbuds of the year, helping you choose the perfect pair for your lifestyle and budget.

Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro – Pros & Cons Review

The Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro are Anker’s flagship true wireless earbuds, positioned as a feature-packed yet affordable alternative to premium models from Apple, Sony, and Bose. With a sleek design, advanced noise cancellation, and a unique charging case, they’ve generated a lot of buzz. But do they live up to the “Pro” name? Let’s dive in.

✅ Pros (Strengths)

• Excellent Noise Cancellation Competes strongly with higher-priced rivals, effectively reducing ambient noise for immersive listening. (Praised by PCMag as “much better noise cancellation than anything else in their price range” ).

• Rich, Bass-Forward Sound Deep and punchy low-end with customizable EQ via the Soundcore app. Great for bass lovers.

• Comfortable Fit Lightweight design with multiple ear tip options ensures long listening sessions without fatigue.

• Feature-Packed Companion App

  • LDAC support for high-resolution audio

  • HearID personalization

  • Adjustable EQ and ANC modes

  • Spatial audio (though mixed reviews on performance)

• Solid Battery Life

  • 7.5 hours with ANC on (up to 10 hours without)

  • 30–40 hours with charging case included .

• Unique Charging Case with Display A small built-in screen shows battery levels and settings—an eye-catching, futuristic touch.

• Affordable Price Point At ~$129, they undercut premium competitors while offering many of the same features.

❌ Cons (Weaknesses)

• Audio Balance Issues

  • Some reviewers noted tinny highs and weak bass depth compared to Sony or Bose [2].

  • Requires EQ tweaking to sound its best.

• Call Quality Could Be Better Microphone performance is average, with background noise sometimes bleeding into calls.

• Charging Case Design Flaws

  • Reflective lid is a fingerprint magnet .

  • Display is small and not very intuitive to use.

• Spatial Audio Underwhelming While included, it doesn’t match Apple’s or Sony’s immersive 3D audio experience.

• Large Earbud Size Bulkier than some competitors, which may not suit smaller ears.

• Not the Best Transparency Mode Competing models like AirPods Pro offer more natural ambient sound passthrough.

📊 Quick Comparison Table

🏆 Verdict .

The Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro are a strong contender in the mid-range wireless earbud market. They shine with excellent ANC, customizable sound, and long battery life, making them a great value for the price. However, a few drawbacks—like average call quality, bulky design, and underwhelming spatial audio—keep them from being true “Pro” killers.

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Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 – Pros & Cons Review

The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 are Google’s latest flagship wireless earbuds, launched alongside the Pixel 10 series. They aim to compete with heavyweights like Apple’s AirPods Pro 2, Sony WF-1000XM5, and Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II. With improved design, better noise cancellation, and deeper integration with Google’s ecosystem, they’re positioned as a top choice for Android users. But do they deliver on all fronts? Let’s break it down.

✅ Pros (Strengths)

• Excellent Noise Cancellation Improved ANC compared to the first-gen Pixel Buds Pro, effectively reducing background noise for commuting, flights, and office use [2][3].

• Comfortable & Smaller Design 27% smaller than the original model, with a new stabilizer fin for a more secure fit. Multiple ear tip sizes included for customization [4].

• Great Sound Quality Balanced, detailed audio with punchy bass and clear mids. Works well across genres, though not as hi-fi as Sony or Sennheiser [2].

• Crystal-Clear Transparency Mode Lets in outside sound naturally, making conversations and awareness of surroundings easy [2].

• Strong Battery Life

  • Up to 8 hours with ANC on (12 hours without)

  • 30–48 hours with case recharging [3]

• Water-Resistant Case & Buds Earbuds: IP54 rating Case: IPX4 rating (splash resistant) [4].

• Google Ecosystem Integration

  • Seamless pairing with Pixel phones

  • Google Gemini (AI assistant) support

  • Fast Pair & Find My Device integration [2][4].

• Good Call Quality Clear voice pickup with decent noise suppression for calls and meetings [2].

• Attractive Color Options Available in Porcelain, Hazel, Peony, Wintergreen, and Moonstone to match Pixel devices [1].

❌ Cons (Weaknesses)

• No Hi-Res Audio Codecs Lacks LDAC or aptX Adaptive support—limited to AAC and SBC, which may disappoint audiophiles [2].

• Spatial Audio is Limited Present, but not as immersive or refined as Apple’s or Sony’s implementations [2].

• iOS Support is Weak Many features (like Google Gemini integration) are Android-only, making them less appealing for iPhone users [4].

• Fit Can Be Tricky for Some Despite being smaller, the stabilizer fin may cause discomfort for certain ear shapes [3].

• Transparency Mode Not Class-Leading While good, it doesn’t feel as natural as AirPods Pro 2 [4].

• Pricey for the Features At ~$229, they’re close to premium competitors that offer more advanced audio features [3].

📊 Quick Comparison Table

🏆 Verdict .

The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 are a fantastic choice for Android users, especially those in the Pixel ecosystem. They deliver excellent ANC, strong sound, long battery life, and seamless Google integration. However, the lack of hi-res codec support, limited iOS functionality, and a price tag close to more advanced competitors mean they’re not the universal best pick.

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Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro – Pros & Cons Review

The Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro are Samsung’s 2024–2025 flagship wireless earbuds, designed to rival Apple’s AirPods Pro 2/3, Sony WF-1000XM5, and Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II. With a bold redesign, upgraded ANC, and ecosystem-first features like live translation, they aim to be the ultimate companion for Galaxy users. But do they live up to the hype? Let’s dive in.

✅ Pros (Strengths)

• Fantastic Sound Quality

  • Punchy, deep bass with excellent sub-bass control [3].

  • Balanced mids and highs (though slightly recessed by default, adjustable via EQ).

  • Wide soundstage with clear instrument separation.

• Advanced Noise Cancellation (ANC)

  • Significantly improved over Buds2 Pro.

  • Blocks out low rumbles (planes, trains) and higher-pitched chatter effectively [4].

• Customizable EQ & Audio Features

  • 9-band graphic EQ in the Galaxy Wearable app [4].

  • 360 Audio (spatial sound) for immersive listening.

  • Samsung SSC codec (24-bit/48kHz, up to 96kHz on select Galaxy devices).

• Comfortable & Secure Fit

  • Smaller, redesigned form factor with angular styling.

  • Lightweight and stable, even during workouts [4].

• Durability

  • IP57 rating (dust and water resistant) [2][4].

• Smart Features

  • Live Translation (real-time language translation when paired with Samsung devices) [1].

  • Seamless device switching within Samsung ecosystem.

  • Responsive touch controls.

• Good Call Quality

  • Six-microphone array improves voice clarity.

  • Solid noise suppression for calls in moderately noisy environments [3].

• Wireless Charging & Fast Charging

  • 5 minutes of charging = ~1 hour playback.

❌ Cons (Weaknesses)

• Ecosystem Lock-In

  • Many advanced features (SSC codec, live translation, seamless switching) are Samsung-only.

  • Non-Samsung Android and iOS users are limited to AAC codec and fewer features [3][4].

• Battery Life is Just Average

  • ~6 hours with ANC on, ~8 hours without.

  • Competitors like Sony WF-1000XM5 last longer [4].

• Mids Slightly Recessed

  • Default tuning favors bass and treble, requiring EQ tweaks for vocal clarity [3].

• No True Multipoint Support

  • Can switch between Samsung devices, but lacks universal multipoint pairing across brands [3].

• High Price

  • Launch price around $229 / ₹19,999, putting them in direct competition with Sony and Apple [2].

• Design Not for Everyone

  • Angular, futuristic look is divisive—some find it stylish, others find it derivative of AirPods [2].

📊 Quick Comparison Table

🏆 Verdict .

The Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro are a powerful upgrade over the Buds2 Pro, offering fantastic sound, improved ANC, and unique smart features like live translation. They’re especially compelling for Samsung Galaxy users, who can unlock the full suite of features.

However, for those outside the Samsung ecosystem, the Buds3 Pro lose much of their appeal—reduced codec support, no seamless switching, and a price tag that competes directly with Sony and Apple make them harder to recommend universally.

========================================================================

Nothing Ear (a) – Pros & Cons Review

The Nothing Ear (a) are the more affordable sibling to the flagship Nothing Ear (2024), designed to bring Nothing’s signature transparent style and strong audio features to a wider audience. With adaptive ANC, long battery life, and a bold design, they aim to deliver premium features at a mid-range price. But how do they actually perform? Let’s break it down.

✅ Pros (Strengths)

• Adaptive Noise Cancellation (up to 45 dB) Strong ANC for the price, effective at blocking out daily background noise like traffic or chatter [1].

• Customizable Sound

  • 11 mm dynamic drivers deliver punchy bass and clear mids.

  • In-app EQ lets you fine-tune audio to your preference [1][2].

• Long Battery Life

  • 9.5 hours per charge (with ANC off)

  • Up to 42.5 hours with case [1]. This is excellent compared to many competitors in the same price range.

• Lightweight & Comfortable Fit Secure seal with multiple ear tip options. Reviewers noted they stay put even during workouts [3].

• Bold Transparent Design Available in yellow, black, and white—a unique aesthetic that stands out in a crowded market [3].

• Affordable Price Around $109, making them one of the best-value ANC earbuds in 2024–2025 [1].

• Smart Features

  • ChatGPT integration via the Nothing X app [1].

  • Low-latency gaming mode.

  • Multipoint connectivity for switching between devices.

❌ Cons (Weaknesses)

• Build Quality Concerns

  • Case feels plasticky and creaks under pressure [3].

  • Transparent design highlights scratches easily [1][3].

• Mid-Tier Water Resistance

  • IP54 rating (splash and dust resistant, but not ideal for heavy rain or swimming) [1].

• Noise Cancellation Alters Sound Some reviewers noted that enabling ANC slightly changes the sound signature [2].

• No XL Ear Tips Included May be an issue for users with larger ear canals [2].

• Case Usability Issues

  • Hard to open with one hand.

  • Design makes it tricky to tell hinge from opening side [3].

• Not Audiophile-Grade While great for casual listening, they don’t match the detail and resolution of higher-end models like Sony WF-1000XM5 or Sennheiser Momentum TW4 [2].

📊 Quick Comparison Table

🏆 Verdict .

The Nothing Ear (a) are a stylish, feature-rich, and affordable pair of earbuds that punch above their weight. With long battery life, strong ANC, and a unique design, they’re a great choice for everyday users who want something different from the usual black-and-white earbuds.

However, the plasticky build, mid-tier durability, and sound compromises with ANC mean they’re not perfect. If you’re an audiophile or need rugged durability, you may want to look at higher-end alternatives.

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Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) – Pros & Cons Review

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) are the latest flagship true wireless earbuds from Bose, released in 2025. Known for their industry-leading noise cancellation, Bose has refined the formula with improved sound tuning, better transparency, and premium build quality. Competing directly with the Sony WF-1000XM5 and Apple AirPods Pro 2/3, these earbuds aim to be the gold standard for travelers, commuters, and audiophiles alike.

✅ Pros (Strengths)

• Unmatched Noise Cancellation

  • Still the best in the industry, silencing everything from airplane engines to office chatter [4][5].

  • Adaptive ANC adjusts automatically to your environment.

• Outstanding Sound Quality

  • Warm, full-bodied audio with rich bass and bright highs [4].

  • Punchy, entertaining sound signature that works across genres [5].

  • High-quality codec support for better wireless audio.

• Excellent Transparency (Aware) Mode

  • Natural-sounding passthrough, making conversations and situational awareness easy [4].

• Comfortable & Secure Fit

  • Multiple ear tip and stability band options.

  • Despite their size, they remain comfortable for long listening sessions [1].

• Premium Build & Design

  • Sleek, luxurious look with color options like Black, White Smoke, Midnight Violet, and Deep Plum [1][4].

  • IPX4 water resistance for workouts and light rain.

• Wireless Charging & Fast Charging

  • 20 minutes of charging = ~2 hours of playback [4].

• Great Call Quality

  • Clear voice pickup with strong noise suppression, even in busy environments [5].

• Immersive Audio Mode

  • Bose’s take on spatial audio for a more cinematic experience [5].

❌ Cons (Weaknesses)

• Expensive

  • At $299 / £299, they’re among the priciest earbuds on the market [1][5].

• Large Earbud Size

  • Bulkier than AirPods Pro or Sony WF-1000XM5, which may not suit smaller ears [4].

• Controls Can Be Finicky

  • Touch controls are responsive but sometimes overly sensitive [4].

• Battery Life is Just Average

  • ~6 hours with ANC on, ~8 hours without.

  • Competitors like Sony offer slightly longer playback [4].

• Immersive Audio Drains Battery

  • Spatial audio mode reduces playback time noticeably [5].

• Limited EQ Customization

  • Only basic EQ adjustments available in the Bose Music app [4].

• Strong Competition

  • Sony WF-1000XM5 offers more codec support and slightly more natural sound.

  • AirPods Pro 2/3 integrate better with iOS devices [4][5].

📊 Quick Comparison Table

🏆 Verdict

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) are the best noise-cancelling earbuds you can buy in 2025. They combine world-class ANC, rich sound, and premium design into a package that’s hard to beat.

However, they’re not perfect: average battery life, bulky size, and a high price tag mean they won’t be for everyone. If you want the absolute best ANC and a luxurious listening experience, these are worth the investment. But if you prioritize codec support, longer battery, or tighter iOS integration, Sony or Apple may be better suited.

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Sony WF-1000XM5 – Pros & Cons Review

The Sony WF-1000XM5 are Sony’s 2023–2025 flagship true wireless earbuds, succeeding the highly acclaimed WF-1000XM4. With a smaller design, upgraded drivers, and smarter noise cancellation, they aim to remain the benchmark for premium earbuds. But with strong competition from Bose, Apple, and Samsung, do they still hold the crown? Let’s break it down.

✅ Pros (Strengths)

• Excellent Sound Quality

  • New Dynamic Driver X delivers wider frequency response with deep bass, clean mids, and sparkling highs [2].

  • LDAC codec support for Hi-Res wireless audio.

  • DSEE Extreme upscales compressed tracks for richer detail.

  • 360 Reality Audio for immersive spatial sound.

• Strong Noise Cancellation

  • Dual processors (V2 + QN2e) provide adaptive ANC that blocks ~95% of ambient noise [2].

  • Foam ear tips improve passive isolation.

• Smaller & Lighter Design

  • 25% smaller and lighter than the XM4, making them more comfortable for long sessions [1].

  • Sleeker, more premium look.

• Smart Features

  • Adaptive Sound Control adjusts ANC/transparency based on activity.

  • Speak-to-Chat automatically pauses music when you talk.

  • Multipoint Bluetooth pairing (connect to two devices at once).

  • Hands-free Google Assistant & Alexa support.

• Battery Life

  • 8 hours with ANC on, 12 hours without.

  • 24–36 hours total with charging case [1].

  • Fast charging: 3 minutes = 1 hour playback.

• Call Quality Improvements

  • AI-based noise reduction and bone-conduction sensors improve voice clarity [3].

• Customizable EQ

  • Sony Headphones Connect app offers detailed EQ adjustments.

❌ Cons (Weaknesses)

• Expensive

  • Launch price around $299, competing directly with Bose QC Ultra and AirPods Pro 2 [1].

• ANC Not Always Best-in-Class

  • While excellent, Bose QuietComfort Ultra still edges ahead in pure cancellation power [1][3].

• Fit Can Be Tricky

  • Smaller glossy design may slip for some users unless tips are inserted deeply [3].

• Call Quality Still Not Perfect

  • Better than XM4, but still struggles in very windy or crowded environments [3].

• Spatial Audio Setup is Clunky

  • 360 Reality Audio requires ear scans and app setup, which some find frustrating [2].

• Connectivity Issues

  • Occasional Bluetooth dropouts reported, especially in crowded areas [1].

• Strong Competition

  • AirPods Pro 2 integrate better with iOS.

  • Bose QC Ultra offers stronger ANC.

  • Sennheiser Momentum TW4 may appeal more to audiophiles.

📊 Quick Comparison Table

🏆 Verdict .

The Sony WF-1000XM5 remain one of the best all-round premium earbuds in 2025. They deliver fantastic sound, strong ANC, and a smaller, more comfortable design with plenty of smart features.

However, they’re not flawless: pricey, occasional fit issues, and strong competition mean they’re no longer the automatic “no-brainer” they once were. Still, for Android users who want Hi-Res audio, customizable EQ, and excellent ANC, they’re among the very best.

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Apple AirPods Pro 2 – Pros & Cons Review

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 (2nd Generation) are Apple’s flagship true wireless earbuds, released in late 2022 and refreshed in 2023 with a USB‑C charging case. They build on the success of the original AirPods Pro with improved noise cancellation, better sound, and tighter integration with the Apple ecosystem. But are they still worth it in 2025? Let’s break it down.

✅ Pros (Strengths)

• Excellent Noise Cancellation

  • Significantly stronger ANC than the first-gen AirPods Pro.

  • Competes closely with Sony and Bose, silencing traffic, chatter, and low rumbles [1][3].

• Improved Sound Quality

  • Richer bass, clearer mids, and more detailed highs.

  • Balanced, natural sound signature that works across genres [2].

  • Wide soundstage for earbuds, though not as deep as over-ear headphones.

• Transparency Mode (Adaptive Transparency)

  • Among the most natural-sounding passthrough modes available.

  • Dynamically reduces harsh environmental sounds (sirens, construction) without muting everything [1].

• Seamless Apple Ecosystem Integration

  • Instant pairing with iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch.

  • Automatic device switching.

  • Precision Find My support with case speaker for locating lost earbuds [1].

• Comfortable & Secure Fit

  • Four ear tip sizes (XS–L) included.

  • Lightweight and stable for workouts.

• Smart Features

  • Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking.

  • Siri voice control.

  • Adaptive EQ that adjusts in real time.

• Case Upgrades

  • Built-in speaker for alerts and Find My.

  • Lanyard loop.

  • USB‑C charging (newer version).

  • MagSafe and Qi wireless charging support.

• Water Resistance

  • IPX4 rating for both earbuds and case—splash and sweat resistant.

❌ Cons (Weaknesses)

• No Hi-Res Codec Support

  • Limited to AAC; no LDAC or aptX Adaptive, which audiophiles may miss [1].

• Battery Life is Just Average

  • ~6 hours with ANC on, ~30 hours with case.

  • Competitors like Sony WF‑1000XM5 last longer [2].

• Design is Nearly Identical to First Gen

  • Minimal visual changes; some may find it uninspired.

• Limited EQ Customization

  • No manual EQ in iOS settings—only Adaptive EQ and a few presets.

• Siri Still Imperfect

  • Voice assistant activation can be inconsistent [1].

• Pricey

  • At $249 retail, they’re more expensive than many rivals with similar or better specs.

📊 Quick Comparison Table

🏆 Verdict

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 remain the best earbuds for iPhone users in 2025. They combine excellent ANC, natural transparency, improved sound, and seamless Apple integration into a polished package.

That said, they’re not perfect: average battery life, lack of hi-res codec support, and a high price tag mean they may not appeal to Android users or audiophiles.

I am hoping the Technics AZ100 are the clear winner for this year since the latter part of the last year was all about Technics. But there's fair game in competition with Sony and Sennheiser as well because both brands may introduce their models later in 2025 therefore I am skeptical about buying now. What should I do? found some threads that are helpful in the problem that update late in the year. Maybe I stay a little longer. Also I want best in terms of sound and ANC.

looking for the best noise cancelling wireless earbuds. i mostly use my earbuds during work and am looking for the best combination in comfort and noise cancellation... sound quality is not that important

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!

The Best Noise Cancelling Earbuds for 2026 to Buy?

I'm looking to upgrade my earbuds this year,

My priorities are simple but specific:

• ANC that murders the sound of a leaf blower (my neighbor's favorite hobby).

• Comfort for all-day wear (my current ones feel like rocks after 2 hours).

• Reliable multipoint connection that doesn't freak out when I switch from my laptop to my phone.

• Sound quality is important, but I'm not an audiophile, I just don't want tinny garbage.

is it just me or are all “top rated” wireless earbuds either super overpriced or built to die right after the warranty expires?? like… i just want something that stays in during a walk, doesn’t stab my ears after 30 mins, and maybe — just maybe — doesn’t sound like static every time i talk to someone.

every best wireless earbuds 2025 list sounds exactly the same: “amazing comfort, long battery life, rich bass” blah blah. then you buy them and a week later, one side just gives up charging like it’s had enough of life.

idk man, maybe i’m cursed. or maybe my ears are just built weird 😂.

i seriously can’t stand the pair i have right now — about ready to toss them out the window lol.

Hello everybody,

I am currently looking to buy some wireless earbuds. I've read like 20ish articles online about what the best pair would be, but it is mainly about the open market and famous brands : Sony, Bose, Apple...

I am a musician and listen to tons of music a day, and I want to treat myself with what could come close to the best audio quality available on the market. So I want an unbiased opinion on what could do the trick for me !

As I plan to have only this pair on a daily basis, a good call quality (or at least correct) is important, as well as an ANC that doesn't completely transform the sound and still works fine.

I have no budget limitations whatsoever, I really want to treat myself with the best !

Do you have any tips on what I should consider ? I've found that the Denon Perl Pros, Devialet Gemini II and Technics AZ100 are often recommended, but are they overhyped ? Are they still relevant in October 2025 ? And we should also see the last Sony Earbuds out soon now, should I wait for this product ? I have the impression that we are juste before the next wave of earbuds as every product is like 1 and a half years old, and I would be disappointed to buy an expensive pair of earbuds just to have a newer, better and not so much pricier version coming out in 2 months lol

Thank you !

This question is currently being asked quite alot so I'm going to share my experience on this.

There are several companies that make effective sound cancelling headphones. These would be Sony, Bose, Sennheiser, Apple, and several more.

They each have effective noise cancelling (Sony/Bose where the better ones) as well as their own sound based on the manufacturer's sound/frequency balance (Sennheiser, AudioTechnica, and Sony where the better ones)

All the ones I have named have relative good frequency balance and sound. Sony and Sennheiser make some great sounding ones, and I have only heard the lower end AudioTechnicas which sounded OK, but did not have the clarity of the more expensive Sony or Sennheiser models. Bose has excellent sound cancelling technology, but even their best headphones do not have the audio quality of the others.

Most important to me in selecting headphones is comfort. Even the best sounding headphones are not enjoyable if they are not comfortable, and headphones that do not sound as great are actually far more enjoyable if comfortable. Everyone has a different head shape, expectation, and feeling of comfort, so definitely try before you buy, and check reviews for how well built and durable they are.

They are worth it if you need them to reduce the background noise and allow you to hear the sounds you want to hear, but dont expect high end sound quality from any of them, even though they might cost the same as high end headphones.

Here are 6 best options available in the market in my opinion based on my experience.

Best Noise-cancelling Headphones Worth Buying Today

• Sony WH-1000XM5 - XM6 - XM4

• Apple AirPods Max

• Bose QuietComfort 45

• Beats Studio Pro

• Cleer Enduro ANC

• AudioTechnica

• Anker Soundcore Space Q45

• Sennheiser Accentum Plus

Hope that helps!!

Im looking forward to get a good pair of ANC earbuds, I reduced it to those 3 (Airpods Pro 2 / WF-1000XM5 / QC Ultra Earbuds)

I currently have many over the ear ANC headphones (XM4, XM5, Momentum 4 and QC Ultra) and 2 wired "audiophile" headphones (Arya Stealth and HD 540 Reference II).

Somehow I havent bought a good pair of earbuds yet, so... Im NOT looking for an absolute killer sound quality, Im mainly looking for Noise Cancelling performance here, Im an Apple user (Iphone 11 and Macbook Pro 2012), some smart features would be nice too.

A comparison in sound would be nice too, besides not being a priority.