A while back, I came across a post ranking earbuds by price range, which was super helpful for a lot of people. Since that one’s hard to find now, I decided to remake it using newer models and what I’ve personally tested or researched. This list considers : sound quality, comfort, battery life, features and especially value for money.

Budget ($20–$50)

SoundPEATS Capsule3 Pro– $42 Surprisingly good sound for under $50. Adaptive ANC works nicely, has app EQ, and LDAC support for Android. Battery lasts 7–8 hours.

JBL Wave Beam – $39 Punchy bass, typical JBL tuning. No ANC, but passive isolation is great. Compact case and comfortable fit.

1MORE PistonBuds Pro $49 Balanced V‑shaped sound with clean highs and decent ANC. App support and customizable touch controls push them pretty high up in this list.

Hoco EQ16 – $38 Excellent value with nice sound and strong ANC and ENC. They’re the ones I’m using specifically because of the ENC part, it’s hard to find headphones that have decent mic quality. Audio wise I’d say they’re close to Ankers but the price makes it feel like a bargain.

Mid‑range ($50–$100)

Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC $79 Smart ANC, great fit, clear mids, and full‑bodied bass. Multipoint and LDAC make it future‑proof.

SoundPEATS Air4 Pro AN – $69 Lightweight fit with airy soundstage and responsive touch controls. Battery clocks in at 9 hours with ANC off. (I struggled with the name too)

High‑end ($100–$200)

Sony WF‑C700N $119 Lightweight version of the XM5, still with great ANC and comfort. Fantastic choice for travel or work.

Technics EAH‑AZ60M2. $179 Premium soundstage with natural mids and crisp treble. Multipoint works seamlessly, battery edges out Sony’s buds.

Jabra Elite 10 ANC. $179 One of the best in comfort and mic quality. Spatial sound support for both Android and iPhone users.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 $189 You guys know about those already

Boss level ($200+)

Once you’re above the $200 mark, it’s really about preference since they’re all pretty good, and keep in mind most of these I haven’t tried (sorry I’m broke)

Sony WF‑1000XM5 -$229

The benchmark for noise cancelling and sound quality(I see this one everywhere i think yall agree) Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds for 279 Best‑in‑class comfort and ANC transparency. Sound is nice and clear, especially good for people who don’t take their headphones off their head.

Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 with ANC for 250$ Audiophile‑grade clarity, robust build, and customizable EQ. A dream for anyone who values balanced sound over extra bass.

That’s my 2025 lineup!
Let me know which ones you’re rocking, or if I missed some underrated picks — I’ll updateo the post based on what everyone recommends

I have Gear IconX 2018 & it still works, but i want to upgrade to a Used Buds that has a App funtion on the phone & better Battery life,
don't like the latest Buds like the Air Pods hate the Stick shape 👎

I’m looking to upgrade my earbuds for a Samsung phone, but I’m honestly stuck. There are so many options, and every review seems to say something different depending on the use case.

What I’m really after is something that pairs easily with Samsung phones, sounds great, and stays comfortable for long listening sessions. Good ANC, call quality, and battery life are important too since I use them daily for work, commuting, and workouts.

Some options I keep seeing recommended are:

• Galaxy Buds2 Pro

• Galaxy Buds FE

• Sony WF-1000XM5

• Jabra Elite 7 Pro

I just switched from an iPhone 12 Pro Max to the Galaxy Flip 7, and I’ve been loving it so far! The only thing I’m stuck on is choosing the right earphones for my new phone. I really enjoyed using the AirPods Pro 2 with my iPhone. I’m big on clear, high-quality sound. I’m not a fan of heavy bass since I find that it can get muddy and drown out the vocals, which I like to hear clearly. I’ve read a ton of reviews but I’m still undecided. Any suggestions would be super helpful!

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!

Alright, friends, I need your advice! What earbuds do you use for listening to music, making calls, and watching movies? I'm looking for something with balanced sound and good call quality, plus noise cancellation.

I recently spent 5K on the OnePlus Buds 3, but it was a total waste—there's this constant hissing noise that ruins everything.

So, help me out. Suggest some great earbuds that you personally use and love. Hope you can guide me to the best pair!

Hello everyone,

I need your recommendations for my new pair of wireless bluetooth headphones. My pair of JBLs have just given up the ghost after 3 or 4 years of use and honestly I'm getting a little lost in the many topics on the subject. Everyone has their own opinion based on their experiences and it really became hell to decide on which pair to take. You will tell me that it depends on the needs, the budget and my use. But I'm quite open on that side.

I will try to summarize for you in broad terms how I use them and what my expectations are. So I already use them most of the time at home and during my travels, so if possible headphones that fit the ears as little as possible. I would like to combine good ANC and audio quality without putting aside one of the two, that is to say that I am ready to go down a little in quality on the 2 to have a good compromise. And budget-wise, I can spend a maximum of 180€ there, after that it already seems excessive to me (even already at this price) and the ideal price is around 120-130€.

Those around me recommended the Samsung Buds 3 Pro with the BlackFriday promotions, but I rarely see them in recs and I have the impression that they are not the ones that are best for ticking the boxes I need. Namely that I have such a Samsung for those wondering.

I'll let you give me your opinion on all of this! 😁

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.

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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.

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?

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.

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:

1. Sony WF-1000XM5

2. Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)

3. Bose QuietComfort Ultra

4. Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro

Not sure which one too choose. so, need help deciding.

i thought earbuds were supposed to be simple. turns out picking a pair feels like choosing a mortgage now lol. so here’s how I figured out how to choose wireless earbuds, after returning like… 3 sets (yes i’m that person).

1. figure out where you’ll actually use them. commute? calls? gym? lying in bed? the “best” pair changes completely.

2. anc isn’t always better. some light ANC models sound way cleaner than the heavy-ANC ones. trade-offs everywhere.

3. don’t trust battery numbers unless you enjoy disappointment. take off 20–30%.

4. check the app before buying. one brand’s app literally required an account just to tweak EQ. no thanks.

5. comfort over specs, always. if it hurts, you’ll never use it, no matter how many “premium drivers” they brag about.

idk, maybe I’m just picky, but earbuds feel like dating… looks great on paper, but vibes matter most.

any hidden gems I should try?