Tutorial Rescuing a Drowned Wireless Earbud Drying Techniques and Functionality Restoration
The Best Wireless Earbuds for Everyone
Every month seems to bring new sets of earbuds with longer battery life and more compact designs. As such, we can't list everything we like. But if you're still hunting, here are some other recommendations.
Montblanc MTB 03 for $395: These earbuds are priced out of reach for most buyers, but if you've got the cash, you'll be rewarded with a luxury experience worthy of the brand. Montblanc has called in some heavy hitters from the audio industry to design and voice these buds. The result is a small, comfortable, and quite flashy-looking pair of wireless earbuds that sound really impressive.
Samsung Galaxy Buds2 for $100: Even several years in, Samsung's Buds2 (9/10, WIRED Recommends) are a great value. For cheaper than a pair of AirPods, you get noise canceling, transparency mode, and some of the lightest, most comfortable buds around. Frustratingly, the companion app only works for Android, so iPhone users will miss out on most features. Some people have also had issues with these earbuds causing irritation in their ears. We did not experience this, but if you do, be sure to return the buds immediately.
Apple/Beats Powerbeats Pro for $180: Apple's beefy Powerbeats Pro (8/10, WIRED Recommends) provide a super-secure fit, sound far better than Apple's standard AirPods or Beats pairs before them, and squeeze an impressive nine hours of life out of a charge. They're getting long in the tooth and forego now-standard extras like transparency mode and ANC, but could still be worth consideration for those after serious stability.
OnePlus Buds Pro for $140: These AirPods-esque earbuds sound great, look great, and work just about the same as the Apple product, though they're designed for Android. If you want that, go ahead. I just happen to think some of the designs above are much sleeker.
JBL Tour Pro 2 for $250: When I first saw photos of these headphones at CES 2023, I believed that a screen on a pair of wireless earbudsto see how much battery is left, play and pause music, etcwould be awesome. It turns out that while the earbuds are totally fine and they are totally decent sounding, I don't need a screen on the case. At all. I don't think I looked at it once, beyond testing, while using the headphones. So much for that.
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2 for $179: Sennheiser's aging Momentum True Wireless 2 are still available, and now at a much lower price point. Apart from fantastic sound, Sennheiser also fixed the bug in the first Momentum pair that drained the battery after a week or so even if you didn't use them.
Raycon Everyday Earbuds for $80: These YouTuber-beloved earbuds are actually a decent cheap pair (7/10, WIRED Review). They are small and light, and they come with an IPX6 rating, which makes them great for workouts.
Master & Dynamic MW08 Sport for $299: The Sport are a great option that come with active noise canceling and a striking design, but the high price keeps them out of the reach of most people.
Best wireless earbuds 2024 April top picks
Best wireless earbuds: Jump to a section
Whether you want the best wireless earbuds for listening to music in the highest quality possible, or seek a model with the best in class ANC, we're here to help.
Right now there are some fantastic wireless earbuds around offering great sound and top-drawer features, and one of the best value options for most people is the Sony WF-C700N. These $119 noise-canceling buds offer great performance and a big-brand experience in a neat and attractive package.
To get even better performance with near CD-quality lossless audio over Bluetooth, I recommend the Sony WF-1000XM5 or the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4. They each have a $299 MSRP, which is at the higher end of the wireless earbuds market, but boast flagship features, long-term comfort, and get you closer to your favorite music with their audiophile performance.
Lastly, for the best noise-canceling wireless earbuds, nothing comes close to the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds. If it's total silence you seek, these are the ones to beat.
All our top choices listed here are based on extensive testing carried out by experts with more than 30 years of experience testing all kinds of audio products including headphones and wireless earbuds.Read on for our pick of the best wireless earbuds to undergo our rigorous review routine.
The Quick List
Best overallSony's latest flagship wireless earbuds updated the incredibly popular WF-1000XM4 in July 2023. The new version builds on the strengths of their predecessor but come in a smaller and lighter design with strong ANC, outstanding sound, and one of the best user experiences around.
Read morebelow
Best value
The Sony WF-C700N may be an entry-level set of ANC wireless earbuds, but they offer similar features and a brand experience that matches much or what makes the company's flagship WF-1000XM5 the best wireless earbuds overall.
Read more below
Best for iOS
Apple's flagship AirPods Pro 2 were updated to a charging case with a USB-C port in September 2023, and continue to take performance to the next level for iOS users thanks to a raft of personalized audio enhancements.Read more below
4. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
Best for noise canceling
Bose leads the way when it comes to the best noise-canceling tech. As the flagship model they offer unrivaled ANC performance from a pair of wireless earbuds, and include Bose's innovative Immersive Audio tech. Not everything hits the mark though, and this flagship model misses out on some popular features found on rivals.
Read more below
5. Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4
Best-sounding wireless earbuds
Sennheiser's newest flagship beefs up performance with a retuned sound signature and wider Bluetooth support to make them one of the most futureproof wireless earbuds around. Comfort levels are high as is the price, but these next-gen buds are worth the extra outlay.
Read more below
Best for Android
The Jabra Elite 10 are priced the same as the AirPods Pro 2. They come with plenty of similar features and are platform agnostic, meaning features are fully supported on both Android and iOS devices. When it comes to sound quality and ANC performance, these Jabra earbuds stood up well against the top-ranking wireless earbud right now.
Read more below
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7. Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro
Best for Samsung
The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro are Samsungs long-running flagship offering strong features and ANC performance that holds its own against the category best. Launched in 2022, the revamped design provides good comfort levels and passive noise isolation over its predecessor. They're also available in three color options including graphite, white and eye-catching Bora purple.
Read more below
8. Jabra's Elite 8 Active
Best for durability
Jabras Elite 8 Active are built like tanks and use military-grade materials for unbreakable protection. They combine much of what makes the companys Elite 10 flagship earbuds so successful, while offering the strongest protection from water and dirt ingress of any pair of wireless earbuds we've tried.
Read more below
Best for running
The Beats Fit Pro have maintained their position at the top of the best wireless earbuds for active lifestyles since they launched in 2021. They continue to impress with their amazing sound quality, great fit and durability, and are the ones to beat when it comes to life on the go.
Read more below
Best under $100
These $99 buds carry a wider feature set than most luxury competitors. On the list: adaptive ANC, hi-fi audio streaming, and multiple wireless technologies for seamless connectivity with OnePlus and third-party Android devices.
Read more below
About the author
Hi, I'm Lee and I cover all things audio for Tom's Guide, including headphones, wireless speakers, and soundbars. I love listening to music and watching movies in the best audio quality possible. I've been testing and writing about audio products for more years than I care to remember, and I love finding the best products for music and audio fans, and sharing the mindful benefits that listening to your favorite tunes in the best quality can bring.As a former Hi-Fi Choice magazine editor, I am passionate about all kinds of audio tech and have been providing sound advice to help shoppers make informed buying decisions since I started as an AV product tester for the Consumers' Association's Which? magazine in the 1990s.
The best wireless earbuds to buy right now
Best wireless earbuds overall
Best-in-class sound with strong noise cancelation in a small and light design
Specifications
Size: Not specified
Weight: Not specified
Battery life (rated): 8 hours (ANC on), 24 hours (with charging case)
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 with SBC, AAC, LDAC
ANC: Yes
Durability rating: IPX4
Reasons to buy
+Outstanding sound quality
+Strong noise cancelation
+Exceptional functionality
+Excellent level of control
Reasons to avoid
-Smaller earbud size affects eartip seal and fit
-Battery life remains the same as predecessor
While the Sony WF-1000XM4 was a top-ranking model in this best wireless earbuds for several years and continues to be on sale via Sony's store and online retailers, the popular model has been outperformed by the new Sony WF-1000XM5 flagship. The latest model arrived in July 2023, and demonstrates how Sony's XM-series earbuds go from strength to strength with each new generation.
As the latest flagship, the WF-1000XM5 wireless earbuds are smaller and lighter, yet they're equipped with some of the strongest features and performance I've ever seen from a pair of 'buds. They have some of the most dynamic and engaging sound we've heard, and their noise-canceling performance easily matches that of the Apple AirPods Pro 2 and get close to the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (both listed below).
Battery life hasn't been stepped up over their XM4 predecessor. But at 8 hours with ANC enabled, these top-tier Sony wireless earbuds still outperform close rivals and have some of the highest battery life of any set of more recently launched earbuds. There's LDAC support for higher-quality music, adaptive listening mode, Google and Alexa digital assistant support, and full EQ customization. Call quality is greatly improved, thanks to a new noise reduction engine with AI that's able to make voices clear even in noisy surroundings. Wind noise was kept to a minimum too, thanks to the mesh on the feed forward microphone helping to reduce its influence during calls. Ultimately, these are Sony's best-ever and the best wireless earbuds package around right now.
Best wireless earbuds for value
Big-brand experience and superb noise canceling for $119
Specifications
Size: Not specified
Weight: 0.16 ounces (per bud); 1.09 ounces (charging case)
Battery life (rated): 7.5 hours (ANC on); 10 hours (ANC off); 24 hours (charging case with ANC on); 28 hours (charging case with ANC off)
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2 with SBC, AAC
ANC: Yes
Durability rating: IPX4
Reasons to buy
+Vibrant, detailed sound
+Superb noise cancellation and call quality
+Comes with most signature Sony features
+Very attractive design
+Optimal comfort and fit
Regarded as a budget alternative the an MSRP at $120 / 99 / AU$199, the WF-C700N builds on the entry-level WF-C500, one of the best cheap wireless earbuds with great sound. The WF-C700N integrates robustactive noise cancelation(ANC) and come with decent battery life at the price. Sound quality is powerful with Sonys impressive sound signature at the forefront, alongside proprietary technologies like360 Reality Audioand DSEE Extreme.
The adaptive ANC technology built in to the WF-C700N is remarkable at the price. It learns your behavior and tweaks noise neutralization to your environment, and low- and mid-frequency sounds went unnoticed around the house and out and about. Call quality was high and the mics silenced most background interference for clear-sounding phone conversations, making these a versatile option that have few rivals even as the most affordable model in this roundup.
Best wireless earbuds for iPhone owners
The ultimate ANC wireless earbuds for iPhones
Specifications
Size: 1.22 x 0.86 x 0.94 inches (per bud); 1.78 x 2.39 x 0.85 inches (charging case)
Weight: 0.19 ounces (per bud); 1.8 ounces (charging case)
Battery life (rated) : 6 hours; 30 hours (charging case)
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 with SBC, AAC
ANC: Yes
Durability rating: IPX4
Reasons to buy
+World-class noise cancellation
+Volume controls right on the stem
+Dolby Atmos spatial audio
+Battery life improved over original model
Reasons to avoid
-Lackluster call quality
-Lanyard costs extra
Although updated to the AirPods Pro 2 USB-C in September 2023, we've been consistently impressed by the 2nd Generation model since they arrived in September 2022. There are plenty of reasons why the AirPods Pro 2 continue to beat most other wireless earbuds, and they are without doubt the best wireless earbuds for iPhone users. As the most versatile model for all kinds of lifestyles, the AirPods Pro 2 take performance to the next level. Externally, they look extremely similar to the first generation, but battery life has increased to give 6 hours on a single charge from the earbuds and up to 30 hours from the wireless charging case.
Designed foriPhone owners looking for a more tailored listening experience, we think the AirPods Pro 2 are the pinnacle of Apple technology. While testing them out for all kinds of active lifestyle activities, we found that the fit had been improved to the point where they're a viable option for the best sports headphones, and suitable for runners and gym workouts alike. Not only are the earbuds IPX4-rated for protection from sweat and light showers, but now too is the charging case itself.
On the audio front, Apple's H2 chip with custom amp and driver delivers impressive low and high frequencies, and you can use the iPhone's TrueDepth camera to create a personalizedspatial audiosound for one of the bestDolby Atmosmusic experiences of any pair of earbuds. Noise cancelation is the best weve experienced from the AirPods Pro series so far.
Best wireless earbuds for noise cancelation
Best-ever ANC wireless earbuds, but misses elite features at the price
Specifications
Size: 1.23 x 0.96 x 0.79 inches (per bud)
Weight: 0.27 ounces (per bud)
Battery life (rated): 6 hours; 24 hours (charging case); 4 hours in immersive audio mode
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 with SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive
ANC: Yes
Durability rating: IPX4
Reasons to buy
+Best-in-class ANC performance
+Immersive audio is a game-changer
+Comfortable and secure fit
+Great customization via companion app
Reasons to avoid
-Case doesnt support wireless charging
-No multi-point Bluetooth
-Mixed call quality
We've been blown away by the noise canceling capabilities of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds since they arrived in late 2023. We thought nothing could top the ANC of their predecessor and still available Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2, but the QC Ultra Earbuds raise the ANC game and are a brilliant follow up.
Sound quality is great, and Bluetooth streaming includes aptX Adaptive support to for compatibility with high-performance audio codecs. The strength of the noise cancelation is second to none, and we liked that you can customize sound profiles with 10 different degrees of isolation as presets that balance ANC and awareness depending on your activity. Additionally, the Ultra's Aware transparency passthrough mode sounds highly natural, while ActiveSense automatically lowers ambient sounds when loud noise is detected.
As with the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones, the Ultra Earbuds have Bose's new immersive audio tech for a 3D sound experience no matter what you're listening to. Sadly though some features are MIA, and there's no wireless charging or multipoint connectivity on board.
Best wireless earbuds for sound
Best-sounding wireless earbuds
Specifications
Size: Not specified
Weight: 0.21 ounces (per bud); 2.33 ounces (charging case)
Battery life (rated): 7.5 hours (ANC off); 30 hours (charging case with ANC off)
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.4 with SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive, aptX Lossless, LE Audio, Auracast
ANC: Yes
Durability rating: IP54
Reasons to buy
+Balanced audiophile sound
+Class-leading aptX Lossless audio support
+Strong sound personalization features
+Effective ANC performance
Reasons to avoid
-Bulky design compared to price rivals
-Auracast and LE Audio support isn't available immediately
The price tag may have increased by $50 for the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 compared to their predecessor, but you get an up tick in performance and the strongest Bluetooth and audio codec support of any pair of earbuds around at the moment. Sound quality is outstanding, and I loved Sennheiser's tweaked sound signature that delivered even more detail across the entire frequency range. They rival the top-ranking Sony check out my Sony WF-1000XM5 vs Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 face-off with a sound balance that gives vocals an extra sense of presence, but not in an overly forward way. Everything sounds perfectly balanced and just right.
Although not quite up to the standards to rival the Bose QC Ultra Earbuds in terms of their ANC performance, the Sennheiser's block out sounds effectively enough and have a useful transparency mode. Features like ear fit test and sound personalization mode are reliable tools to help your get the best fit and sound that's just right for you, and Sennheiser's mic array makes them a practical calling headset.
Ultimately, these are a strong contender for the best wireless earbuds overall, but despite the slightly increased battery life over the TW3 they still fall short on playback time compared to rivals at the price.
Best wireless earbuds for Android
Elite sound and spatial audio with headtracking make these a great AirPods Pro alternative
Specifications
Size: 0.8 x 0.7 x 1.1 inches
Weight: 0.2 ounces (per bud)
Battery life (rated): 6 hours (ANC on); 8 hours (ANC off); 27 hours (ANC on w/charging case), 36 hours (ANC off w/charging case)
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 with SBC, AAC
ANC: Yes
Durability rating: IP57
Reasons to buy
+Rich, dynamic, customizable sound
+Powerful ANC
+Superior head tracking technology
+Jabras most luxe design since the Elite Active 75t
+Steady battery life
Reasons to avoid
-Unreliable call quality
-Spatial audio needs work
-No aptX codec support
Jabras flagship Elite 10 are a more affordable option compared to rival wireless earbud flagships from the likes of Bose and Sony. In fact, when it comes to sound quality and ANC performance, these Jabra earbuds stood up well in our Sony WF-1000XM5 face-off. They sport upscale features in a luxe design thats comfortable to wear for longer listening periods, and although not quite everything hits the flagship mark in terms of battery life and a lack of extensive special features compared to the top ranking models, the Elite 10 deserve a place in the best wireless earbuds.
Active noise canceling is double that of its predecessor, and the Elite 10 carries Jabras own spatial sound tech with Dolby head tracking to deliver strong sound with great bass and detailed highs straight out of the box. Theres a multi-band EQ control, and although theres no aptX or LDAC support for faster data transfers over Bluetooth, they're competitively priced and their overall performance makes them a strong option at the price.
Best wireless earbuds for Samsung
Best ANC wireless earbuds for Galaxy phones
Specifications
Size: 0.7 x 0.85 x 0.7 inches (per bud)
Weight: 0.19 (per bud)
Battery life (rated): 5 hours (ANC on); 8 hours (ANC off); 18 hours (charging case with ANC on); 29 hours (charging case with ANC off)
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 with SBC, AAC, SSC
ANC: Yes
Durability rating: IPX7
Reasons to buy
+Wide soundstage
+Effective ANC
+Compact and practical design
+Easy to use features
+Excellent connectivity
Reasons to avoid
-Bixby assistant unreliable
-Most coveted features are exclusive to Galaxy devices
Samsung's Galaxy Buds 2 Pro set out to rival the AirPods Pro 2, at least for Galaxy owners. During our testing we found the sound alone makes the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro worth the investment, giving listeners a high quality audio experience and compelling 3D sound with precise head tracking. Samsungs ANC holds its own against the category leaders and blocks out close to 90% of ambient noise. The updated design also provides improved comfort and noise isolation.
We found these buds operated well across all Bluetooth-enabled devices, but Galaxy smartphone owners get to enjoy cool features like Easy Pairing and compatibility with Samsung's Scalable Codec. Its upsetting that Bixby (Samsung's voice assistant) doesnt perform up to its potential, though the mediocre battery life with ANC on is a greater disappointment. Since our review, Galaxy smartphone and Buds 2 Pro owners now get 360-degree audio recording, too.
Take a look at our Samsung promo codes for the latest discounts from Samsung.
Best wireless earbuds for durability
Best-ever durability is perfect for active lifestyles
Specifications
Size: 0.8 x 0.8 x 1.1 inches (per bud)
Weight: 0.2 ounces (per bud)
Battery life (rated): 8 hours (ANC on); 14 hours (ANC off); 32 hours (ANC on w/charging case), 56 hours (ANC off w/charging case)
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 with SBC, AAC
ANC: Yes
Durability rating: IP68-rated (earbuds), IP54-rated (charging case)
Reasons to buy
+Extremely durable
+Satisfying sound and call quality
+Intuitive noise cancelation
+Lengthy playtimes
+Impressive 3D audio performance
Reasons to avoid
-Control scheme affects comfort
-Missing some upscale features
-Spatial Sound could use some work
Jabras Elite 8 Active are made from military-grade materials for unbreakable protection. They're the most durable wireless earbuds weve ever seen. They combine much of what makes the companys Elite 10 flagship earbuds so successful, while being perfectly suited to fitness fans with IP68-rated earbuds, offering the strongest water and dirt ingress protection of any pair of wireless earbuds. Even the changing case is IP54-rated.
With powerful 6mm dynamic drivers, Jabras sound signature will put a spring in your step to jumpstart workouts. Adaptive active noise cancelation, spatial audio, and battery life are some of the best weve encountered from a pair of wireless earbuds built for active lifestyles, and the Elite 8 Active wireless earbuds benefit from solid feature support across both iOS and Android devices.
Best wireless earbuds for running
Best wireless earbuds for iOS users with active lifestyles
Specifications
Size: 0.75 x 1.18 x 0.94 inches
Weight: 0.2 ounces
Battery life (rated): 6 hours (ANC on), 7 hours (ANC Off), 27 hours (ANC on with charging case), 30 hours (ANC off with charging case)
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0 with SBS, AAC
ANC: Yes
Durability rating: IPX4
Reasons to buy
+Powerful ANC and Transparency modes
+Dynamic sound and Spatial Audio support
+Respectable battery life
+Comfy, secure fit
Reasons to avoid
-Some features exclusive to Apple devices
-Limited Android app
The Beats Fit Pro wireless earbuds rank #1 in our best sports headphones for iPhone users with active lifestyles. They're a culmination of Apple and Beats greatest triumphs, packaging AirPods Pro-like performance into an updated Studio Beats design.
When we tested the Beats Fit Pro, our reviewer was impressed by the amazing sound quality, which was backed by a proprietary transducer that keeps bass punchy, while also balancing frequencies to hear crisp mids and detailed highs. Spatial Audio for immersive 3D sound has also been added, making this the first Beats product to feature the technology. Popular features tied to Apple's H1 processor are available, including automatic switching between Apple devices and FindMy to help locate misplaced buds. We also appreciate the integrated wingtips, which keep the buds secure during runs and intense workouts.
Android users do get to bask in the sonic upgrades, though all other iOS-related features remain exclusive to iPhone and iPad users. The lack of features available on the Android app also means limits to what the Fit Pro can perform on Googles mobile platform.
Best wireless earbuds under $100
$99 noise-cancelers with excellent Android integration
Specifications
Size: 1.24 x 0.79 x 0.96 inches (per bud)
Weight: 0.16 ounces (per bud)
Battery life (rated): Up to 10 hours, 44 hours total (charging case)
Conenctivity: Bluetooth 5.3 with AAC, SBC, LHDC 5.0
ANC: Yes
Durability rating: IP55 (earbuds); IPX4 (charging case)
Reasons to buy
+Excellent feature set
+Strong ANC
+Works flawlessly with all Android devices
Reasons to avoid
-Poor battery management
-Weak 3D audio performance
The OnePlus Buds 3 are a bargain at $99. They have strong active noise cancelation, connectivity, call quality, sound performance, and touch controls. Despite the price, the design is premium and they have sturdy protection with an IP55 rating on the buds and an IPX4-rated charging case.
Not everything hits its mark, especially battery life and spatial audio, which are disappointing compared to other models. However, the buds excellent wireless features (Bluetooth 5.3, Google/OnePlus Fast Pair) combined with intuitive ANC and stellar hi-res audio support (LHDC) make for a dynamic and distraction-free music streaming experience thats enjoyable on the best Android smartphones.
Best wireless earbuds specs compared
Swipe to scroll horizontally
| Model | Battery life (rated) | Connectivity | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sony WF-1000XM5 | 8 hours (ANC on), 24 hours (charging case) | Bluetooth 5.3 with SBC, AAC, LDAC | IPX4 (earbuds) |
| Sony WF-C700N | 7.5 hours (ANC on); 24 hours (charging case) | Bluetooth 5.2 with SBC, AAC | IPX5 (earbuds) |
| Apple AirPods Pro 2 USB-C | 6 hours; 30 hours (charging case) | Bluetooth 5.3 with SBC, AAC | IP54 (earbuds and charging case) |
| Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds | 6 hours; 24 hours (charging case) | Bluetooth 5.3 with SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive | IPX4 (earbuds) |
| Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 | 7.5 hours (ANC off); 30 hours (charging case with ANC off) | Bluetooth 5.4 with SBC, AAC, aptX Adaptive, aptX Lossless, LE Audio, Auracast | IP54 (earbuds) |
| Jabra Elite 10 | 6 hours (ANC on); 27 hours (charging case) | Bluetooth 5.3 with SBC, AAC | IP57 (earbuds) |
| Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro | 5 hours (ANC on); 18 hours (charging case) | Bluetooth 5.3 with SBC, AAC, SSC | IPX7 (earbuds) |
| Jabra Elite 8 Active | 8 hours (ANC on); 32 hours (charging case) | Bluetooth 5.3 with SBC, AAC | IP68 (earbuds); IP54 (charging case) |
| Beats Fit Pro | 6 hours (ANC on); 27 hours (charging case) | Bluetooth 5.0 with SBS, AAC | IPX4 (earbuds) |
| OnePlus Buds 3 | 10 hours; 44 hours total (charging case) | Bluetooth 5.3 with AAC, SBC, LHDC 5.0 | IP55 (earbuds); IPX4 (charging case) |
Also tested...
As Tom's Guide's audio experts, we test a lot of wireless earbuds but some models don't make it into a buying guide. That's not to say that they're not great performers, just that they're beaten by rival models with a stronger set of features or performance. The picks in this guide are the very best we've tested and have all been given full reviews. But with more models to choose from than ever, we want to make sure that you consider these also tested options. They alternatives have been through our processes but didn't quite make the grade to rank among the best of the best.
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Devialet Gemini II: These wireless earbuds are perfect for bass fiends, and rank as one of my top 5 wireless earbuds for audiophile sound. The second-gen noise-canceling buds are priced at $449 / 349 (around AU$699), making them one of most expensive earbuds I've seen. That's one of the reasons why they didn't make the guide, along with an unconventional design and poor battery life. On the other hand, if you have deep pockets and don't mind regular top-ups, they have a rich and nuanced sound that's very enjoyable.
Denon PerL Pro: These are the best wireless earbuds we've tried for personalized sound. They're typically priced at $349 / 299 and look strikingly similar to theNuraTrue Pro, which I loved. They have similar sound personalization experience that adapts to the listener's hearing to ensure they hear the full range of frequencies as evenly as possible. They rank among my top wireless earbuds recommendations for audiophile sound thanks to their musical sound that make the kind of connection I'd usually associate with a home Hi-Fi setup. Not everything works as well as it might though. I found the twist to fit method off inserting the 'buds in my ears a bit hit and miss, and the large circular design won't suit everyone.
Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2: These flagship Pi7 S2 wireless earbuds are priced at $399 / 349 / AU$700. They have a strong musical balance with a clean and insightful sound. Bass levels are weighty and immersive without being as potent as the Devialet Gemini II (also tested). It's a tight, punchy sound with a good balance of vocal clarity and treble detail. Adaptive ANC performance is satisfactory, but battery life isn't among the strongest at 5 hours from the earbuds and 16 hours from the charging case. Speaking of the charging case, it's larger than most and the lid feels on the flimsy side compared to other similarly priced wireless designs on the market. These aren't major issues, but these compromises at the price means they didn't rank for this guide.
FAQ
Which are the best wireless earbuds to buy right now?
These are the top 5 best wireless earbuds on the market right now.
1. Sony WF-1000XM5
Sony's XM-series earbuds go from strength to strength with each new generation. As the latest flagship, the WF-1000XM5 wireless earbuds are smaller and lighter, yet they're equipped with some of the strongest features and performance we've ever seen from a pair of wireless earbuds. They have some of the most dynamic and engaging sound I've heard, and their noise-canceling performance easily matches that of the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2 or Apple AirPods Pro 2.
2. Sony WF-C700N
The Sony WF-C700N are the best-value noise-canceling earbuds at just $119. They build on the entry-level WF-C500, one of the best cheap wireless earbuds out there, and their adaptive ANC technology is remarkable at the price. It learns your behavior and tweaks noise neutralization to your environment, while overall sound quality is powerful with Sonys pleasingly bass-heavy sound signature at the forefront. Few others manage to balance Sony's strong app support and performance at the price.
3. Apple AirPods Pro 2with USB-C
The AirPods Pro 2 are the ultimate earbuds for iPhone users. I have been blown away by the 2nd generation model since Apple launched them in September 2022. Updated with a USB-C port on the charging case in 2023, they bring significant upgrades including Apple's Adaptive Audio suite of features and support for a new Lossless audio protocol to take performance for the popular buds to the next level. These are Apple's most future-proof buds and the best option for iPhone users.
4. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
We didn't think ANC could be bettered when we reviewed the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2, but the QC Ultra Earbuds released at the end of 2023 are without question the best noise-canceling earbudswe've ever tried. If ANC is a top priority, then the new Bose flagship reduces background sounds to a pool of silence and introduces listeners to its Immersive Audio tech to boost the listening experience even further.
5. Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4
As the newest model in Sennheiser's series, the Momentum TW4 are the same price as the top-ranking Sony WF-1000XM5. They have some of the strongest Bluetooth features and audio codec support of any wireless earbuds on the market and are one of the most future-proof designs for Android devices. Sennheiser's retuned sound signature makes them perfect for audiophile listening, while ANC and call quality performance are strong but not quite up to the standards of the best noise cancelers.
What do IP-ratings mean?
IP-ratings refer to the level of Ingress Protection (IP) from liquids and dirt that a device is protected from. This is part of a device's durability.
IP-ratings explained:The first digit refers to the level of protection from solid particles, such as dust and sand. The scale ranges from 0 (no protection) to 6 (dust-tight) for full protection. For example, an IP6X rating ensures that the device is completely dust-tight, making it ideal for harsh outdoor conditions or industrial settings where fine dust particles are common.
The second digit refers to a devices resistance to moisture, and the scale ranges from 0 (no protection) to 8 for the highest level of protection. For example, with an IPX4 rating, earbuds are protected from water splashes from any direction, while an IPX7 rating ensures that the device can be submerged in water up to 1 meter (around 3 feet) for 30 minutes without any damage.
Most common IP ratings explained
Swipe to scroll horizontally
| Rating | Level of protection |
|---|---|
| IPX4 | This rating shows that the device has been tested and offers protection against splashes of water, making them suitable for workouts or light rain. |
| IPX6 | This rating indicates that the device can withstands power jets of water from any direction. |
| IPX8 | The device is waterproof and fully submersible up to 1.5 meters for up to 30 mins. |
How to choose the best wireless earbuds for you
With so many wireless earbuds to choose from, you may find it difficult to settle on one. There are several factors to weigh up, and which ones are most important will depend on personal preference. Follow our list of considerations to factor in when choosing the best wireless earbuds for you.
1. Design
When buying a new pair of wireless earbuds, it can be helpful to think about where you want to wear them. If you're going to use them on a run, for example, you may want a pair that offers the most secure fit and a high IP rating for durability with strong moisture protection like the models in our best sports headphones.
Whatever type you choose, make sure the earbuds are well-built and comfy to wear for about 1 to 2 hours daily.
2. Sound quality
All wireless earbuds have their own unique sound signature. Since youre buying a pair of wireless earbuds to enjoy music individually, its important to find a pair of buds that match your sound taste, be it heavy bass or distinctively clear midrange frequencies to allow you to hear vocals and nuances in recordings.
Some models like the Sennheiser's Momentum True Wireless 4 offer personalized sound via the companion app, which allows the user to create their own sound profiles and tweak EQ levels to a sound that is best for their taste and hearing.
3. Battery life
Battery life is also key in choosing the best wireless earbuds. Wireless earbuds can last about 5 to 10 hours and offer extended playtime with their bundled charging cases always make sure one is included.
4. Accessories
It's disappointing spending money on a new pair of wireless earbuds only to find that you need to buy the accessories separately. Any models that come with a carrying case, charging cable, user guide, and extra ear cups or tips are solid purchases.
5. Price
Price is a big consideration when looking for the best headphones. Although there are always exceptions, big-name brands will typically command a bit extra, but generally speaking, the less you spend on a pair of headphones the greater the chance that sound and features will be compromised. Going for a budget option isn't always the best choice, as any money you save on your purchase won't do you much good if you constantly need to recharge your audio gear, or the sound quality is poor.
How we test the best wireless earbuds
The best reviews criteria carried out by audio experts
With more than 30 years experience in testing and reviewing consumer audio products for all kinds of media outlets and big-name brands around the world, the Tom's Guide audio team follows a rigorous test regime when it comes to determining the best products for recommendation in our buying guides.
In determining the best wireless earbuds, we consider fit, battery life, sound quality, design and value (are they worth the price?). We also factor in features like how well the controls work and how easily the earbuds pair with our playback devices.
In terms of sound quality, we listen to many sample tracks that span a number of genres, including hip-hop, rock, jazz, classical and R&B, while evaluating volume, clarity and fullness. We also make phone calls to assess both call quality and microphone performance.
To discover more information on what we listen for during our testing and reviewing process, take a look at our companion page on how to get thebest headphone sound for you.
During the testing phase, our reviewers wear each pair of headphones for several hours at a time throughout the course of a week. Reviewers will make a note of the battery life performance in real world use, and assess how well this matches the rated battery life provided by earbud makers.
Star ratings explained: We evaluate earbuds based on a five-point system (1 = worst, 5 = best). If a product hits nearly every mark, its awarded a coveted Recommended badge, while our Best Value award speaks for itself. Only products with truly exceptional performance across the board are awarded an Editor's Choice badge.
For more information, check out our how we test page for Tom's Guide.
Contributions from: Alex Bracetti, Simon Lucas, Nick Pino
