Introduction#
The wireless earbud market has exploded in recent years, with options ranging from premium models with cutting-edge features to budget-friendly alternatives that deliver surprising quality. Whether you’re an audiophile seeking perfect sound, a fitness enthusiast needing sweat-proof durability, or simply looking for affordable everyday earbuds, our comprehensive guide covers the best wireless earbuds for every need and budget in 2024.
We’ve extensively tested dozens of models, evaluating sound quality, noise cancellation, comfort, battery life, and additional features to help you find your perfect audio companion.
How We Tested#
Each pair of earbuds in this roundup underwent our standardized testing process:
- Sound Quality: Evaluated across multiple music genres and audio content types
- Noise Cancellation: Tested in various noisy environments (coffee shops, public transport, etc.)
- Battery Life: Verified manufacturer claims with real-world usage tests
- Comfort: Worn for extended periods (4+ hours) by multiple testers
- Call Quality: Assessed for clarity in different environmental conditions
- Durability: Subjected to sweat, light water exposure, and daily handling
1. Sony WF-1000XM4 - Best Overall#
Why We Love It#
Sony’s flagship WF-1000XM4 earbuds deliver the complete package with exceptional sound quality, industry-leading noise cancellation, and impressive battery life. The foam ear tips create an excellent seal for improved passive noise isolation and comfort during extended listening sessions.
The V1 processor not only powers the superb noise cancellation but also enables LDAC codec support for true high-resolution audio. In our testing, these earbuds reproduced the widest frequency range and most detailed soundstage of any model we tested.
Key Features#
- Sound Quality: Rich, balanced profile with excellent detail and powerful bass
- Noise Cancellation: Top-tier ANC performance, especially with low-frequency noise
- Battery Life: 8 hours with ANC (12 hours without), plus 16 additional hours from the case
- Additional Features: LDAC support, adaptive sound control, speak-to-chat function, wireless charging
Who Should Buy#
Audiophiles and frequent travelers who want premium sound quality and excellent noise cancellation will find the Sony WF-1000XM4 worth the investment. If you’re an Android user seeking the best overall wireless earbuds regardless of price, these should be your top choice.
Who Should Avoid#
Despite their excellent performance, the bulkier design may not fit smaller ears comfortably. Those seeking the most compact option or requiring specific iOS integrations might want to consider alternatives.
2. Apple AirPods Pro 2 - Best for iPhone Users#
Why We Love It#
The second-generation AirPods Pro offer meaningful improvements over their predecessors, with enhanced noise cancellation, better sound quality, and longer battery life. The seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem makes them the obvious choice for iPhone users.
In our testing, we were particularly impressed by the improved bass response and the effectiveness of the transparency mode, which sounds remarkably natural. The addition of volume control via the stems is a welcome quality-of-life improvement.
Key Features#
- Sound Quality: Clear, well-balanced audio with improved bass response
- Noise Cancellation: 2x better than the original AirPods Pro
- Battery Life: 6 hours with ANC (30 hours total with case)
- Additional Features: Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, seamless device switching, precision finding for the case
Who Should Buy#
iPhone, iPad, and Mac users will benefit most from the AirPods Pro 2’s deep integration with the Apple ecosystem. They’re ideal for those who frequently switch between Apple devices and value ease of use alongside good sound quality and noise cancellation.
Who Should Avoid#
Android users will miss out on many of the AirPods Pro’s best features. Those seeking maximum audio quality or customization options have better alternatives.
3. Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro - Best for Android Users#
Why We Love It#
The Galaxy Buds 2 Pro represent Samsung’s best earbuds yet, with a comfortable design, excellent sound quality, and effective noise cancellation. The 24-bit audio support provides noticeably better sound quality when paired with compatible Samsung devices.
During our testing, we found the compact, ergonomic design to be among the most comfortable for extended wear. The IPX7 water resistance rating also makes these more durable than most competitors for workout use.
Key Features#
- Sound Quality: Warm, detailed sound with excellent instrument separation
- Noise Cancellation: Very good ANC with minimal pressure feeling
- Battery Life: 5 hours with ANC (18 hours total with case)
- Additional Features: 24-bit hi-fi audio (with Samsung devices), voice detect for automatic transparency mode, advanced ambient sound
Who Should Buy#
Samsung device owners will benefit most from the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro’s ecosystem integration. They’re perfect for Android users seeking premium sound quality and noise cancellation in a compact, comfortable form factor.
Who Should Avoid#
iPhone users will miss many of the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro’s best features. Those seeking maximum battery life can find better options.
7. Nothing Ear (2) - Best Transparent Design#
Why We Love It#
Nothing continues to stand out with its distinctive transparent design, but the Ear (2) backs up those looks with impressive sound quality and features at a competitive mid-range price. The dual connection feature allows seamless switching between devices, making these versatile for work and play.
During our testing, we were impressed by the personalized ANC that adapts to your ear canal shape and the customizable EQ with an easy-to-use graphic equalizer in the app.
Key Features#
- Sound Quality: Clear, balanced sound with Hi-Res certification
- Noise Cancellation: Adaptive ANC that personalizes to your ear shape
- Battery Life: 6 hours with ANC (36 hours total with case)
- Additional Features: Personalized sound profile, advanced EQ, low lag mode for gaming
Who Should Buy#
Style-conscious buyers who want earbuds that stand out visually while delivering solid performance will love the Nothing Ear (2). They’re ideal for those who appreciate distinctive design alongside good sound quality and features.
Who Should Avoid#
Those seeking the absolute best noise cancellation or most durable build quality may want to look elsewhere. Audiophiles may prefer options with more refined sound tuning.
8. EarFun Air Pro 3 - Best Budget with ANC#
Why We Love It#
The EarFun Air Pro 3 delivers features normally found in earbuds costing twice as much. With advanced codec support (aptX Adaptive), effective noise cancellation, wireless charging, and exceptional battery life, these earbuds offer remarkable value.
In our testing, we were particularly impressed by the sound quality, which rivals many mid-range options, and the battery life that exceeded the manufacturer’s claims.
Key Features#
- Sound Quality: Punchy, detailed sound with good bass response
- Noise Cancellation: Effective hybrid ANC with minimal audio quality impact
- Battery Life: 9 hours with ANC (45 hours total with case)
- Additional Features: aptX Adaptive codec support, wireless charging, low-latency gaming mode
Who Should Buy#
Budget-conscious shoppers who don’t want to sacrifice features will find exceptional value in the EarFun Air Pro 3. They’re perfect for those who want premium features like ANC, wireless charging, and good codec support without premium pricing.
Who Should Avoid#
Those seeking the absolute best sound quality or most refined app experience may want to invest in higher-end options.
9. JLab Go Air Pop - Best Ultra-Budget#
Why We Love It#
At just $24.88, the JLab Go Air Pop delivers astonishingly good performance for the price. These ultra-budget earbuds offer respectable sound quality, IPX4 water resistance, and impressive battery life with a surprisingly comfortable fit.
During our testing, we were amazed by how well these performed for basic music listening and calls, making them perfect for casual users or as a backup pair.
Key Features#
- Sound Quality: Good bass response with three EQ settings
- Noise Cancellation: No ANC, minimal passive isolation
- Battery Life: 8 hours (32 hours total with case)
- Additional Features: Built-in USB charging cable in the case, touch controls, single earbud mode
Who Should Buy#
First-time earbud buyers, those on extremely tight budgets, or people needing a backup pair will find the JLab Go Air Pop to be an incredible value. They’re perfect for casual listening where absolute sound quality isn’t critical.
Who Should Avoid#
Anyone seeking noise cancellation, premium sound quality, or advanced features should invest in a higher-end option.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Wireless Earbuds#
1. Sound Quality#
While subjective, sound quality depends on several factors:
- Driver size and type: Larger drivers typically produce better bass response
- Codecs supported: Look for AAC, aptX, or LDAC for higher quality wireless audio
- Frequency response: Wider ranges typically indicate better detail reproduction
2. Noise Cancellation#
Consider how and where you’ll use your earbuds:
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Essential for commuting or noisy environments
- Passive isolation: Depends on ear tip design and fit
- Transparency/ambient mode: Important for awareness when outdoors
3. Comfort and Fit#
Earbuds you can’t wear comfortably are earbuds you won’t use:
- Multiple ear tip sizes/materials: Ensures proper fit for different ear shapes
- Weight: Lighter earbuds are typically more comfortable for long sessions
- Design: In-ear, stem designs, wing tips for activity
4. Battery Life#
Consider your usage patterns:
- Single-charge duration: 5-8 hours is typical with ANC enabled
- Case capacity: Additional 2-4 full charges is standard
- Quick charging: Look for options offering hours of playback from minutes of charging
5. Additional Features#
Beyond the basics, consider features that match your needs:
- Water/dust resistance: IPX4 minimum for workout use, IPX7 for water immersion
- Touch controls: Convenience varies widely between models
- Wireless charging: Convenient but adds to cost
- Multi-device connectivity: Important if you switch between phone and computer
Conclusion#
The wireless earbud market offers more excellent choices than ever before. While premium models like the Sony WF-1000XM4 and Apple AirPods Pro 2 deliver the most complete experience, mid-range options like the Nothing Ear (2) and budget picks like the EarFun Air Pro 3 offer impressive performance at lower price points.
For those on the tightest budgets, the JLab Go Air Pop proves that decent wireless audio doesn’t have to break the bank. When choosing wireless earbuds, prioritize the features that matter most to your specific needs—whether that’s sound quality, noise cancellation, battery life, or price.
Review Summary
Pros
- Wide range of options across all price points
- Many models now offer excellent noise cancellation
- Battery life continues to improve
- Feature parity between premium and mid-range options is closing
- Water resistance is becoming standard
Cons
- Premium models still command high prices
- Most require companion apps for full functionality
- Case sizes vary significantly between models
- Proprietary ear tips on some models make replacements difficult
Verdict
With options available from $25 to $300, there's never been a better time to cut the cord and enjoy wireless audio freedom. Our top picks provide excellent options at every price point, with the Sony WF-1000XM4 standing as the best overall choice for those willing to invest in premium quality.