Wireless headphones or earbuds (whatever you call them) are essentially the standard now, with Bluetooth earbuds being convenient and the sound quality difference to wired not being that noticeable to typical people (we realize audiophiles ‘know’).
The market is huge, but here are the best wireless earbuds we’ve tested for iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch and Macs. If you do want a wired connection some of these do offer it in addition to Bluetooth, but we also have a round-up of the best wired headphones and a comparison of over-ear headphones read our comparison of AirPods Max vs other over-ear headphones. We also have a comparison of all the AirPods.
When testing these best earbuds we considered some of the important factors to consider when choosing headphones. Such as whether they support ANC, which is Apple’s codec, or the aptX codec that is now used with many Bluetooth headphones and earbuds, but isn’t supported by Apple (although there are some earbuds, such as the B&W Pi8 below that include a transmitter for aptX support. We explain what to look for when choosing earbuds below.
Best headphones and earbuds for iPhone 2026
PROMOTION
Baseus MC2: All-Day Ease, $49.99 now!
The best earbuds are the ones you forget you’re wearing. MC2 stays easy on your ears with CloudComfort 2.0. Enjoy up to 55 hours of listening and IP67 protection for sweat, rain, and everyday plans. Use code MC2OWSPR at checkout.
We’re comparing all the best earbuds with Apple’s own offerings: the AirPods Pro 3, AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with ANC. Also included are various options from Apple-owned subsidiary Beats, which by association benefits from a lot of Apple-specific features. But just how well do they compete with headphones from the likes of Bose, Sennheiser, Bowers & Wilkins and Sony?
1. Apple AirPods Pro 3rd-generation (2025) – Best earbuds for iPhone
Pros
- Excellent comfort and secure fit
- Improved sound and bass
- Outstanding active noise cancellation
- Accurate workout heart-rate tracking
Cons
- Few major new features
- Charging case stores less
- Limited upgrade over Pro 2
Best Prices Today:
Apple AirPods Pro 3 are premium true wireless earbuds from Apple. Released in September 2025, they add heart-rate monitoring, foam-infused eartips, stronger ANC, improved sound, longer battery life and IP57 water resistance.
Why we like them
The AirPods Pro 3 refine an already excellent formula with noticeably better comfort, stronger noise cancellation, richer sound and longer battery life while keeping the same launch price. Heart-rate tracking is a useful bonus, making them an easy recommendation for most Apple users.
Who are they best for
They’re ideal for iPhone users wanting premium wireless earbuds with excellent noise cancellation, secure all-day comfort and seamless Apple ecosystem integration. They’re especially appealing for fitness enthusiasts who can benefit from the new built-in heart-rate monitoring.
What are the biggest strengths
- More comfortable foam-infused eartips with five sizes
- Excellent fit that stays secure during exercise
- Improved sound with deeper bass and wider soundstage
- Significantly stronger ANC and better Transparency mode
- Accurate heart-rate monitoring during supported workouts
- Longer battery life without a price increase
What are the compromises
- Few genuinely new audio innovations
- Uses the same H2 chip as before
- Charging case stores less reserve power
- Existing AirPods Pro 2 owners gain limited benefits
- New eartips aren’t compatible with older models
- Heart-rate tracking only works during workouts
What is battery life like
Battery life increases to around eight hours with ANC enabled, while the case provides roughly 16 additional hours. A five-minute charge delivers about one hour of listening time.
How good is the ANC
Active Noise Cancellation is substantially improved, thanks to new microphones, redesigned eartips and computational enhancements. Apple claims twice the ANC of the previous generation, with noticeably better Transparency mode too.
Verdict
The AirPods Pro 3 aren’t a revolutionary upgrade, but they successfully improve almost every aspect of Apple’s best earbuds. Better fit, stronger noise cancellation, richer sound, longer battery life and useful heart-rate tracking make them easy to recommend. AirPods Pro 2 owners may not need to upgrade immediately, but everyone else gets one of the best premium wireless earbuds available.
Read our full
Apple AirPods Pro 3 review
2. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds – Best earbuds for noise cancellation
Pros
- Class-leading noise cancellation
- Detailed, lively sound
- Secure, comfortable fit
- Excellent companion app
Cons
- Wireless charging costs extra
- Spatial audio drains battery
- Premium price
Best Prices Today:
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are premium true wireless earbuds from Bose, featuring class-leading active noise cancellation, immersive spatial audio, customisable ear tips and stability bands, plus app-based fit testing.
Why we like them
The QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds combine outstanding active noise cancellation with detailed, engaging sound that reveals subtle musical details. They’re comfortable thanks to multiple ear tip and stability band options, while the Bose app helps achieve the best possible fit for consistently excellent listening.
Who are they best for
They’re ideal for frequent travellers, commuters and anyone who wants exceptional noise cancellation without sacrificing sound quality. They also suit listeners who value a secure fit and don’t mind paying a premium for top-tier performance.
What are the biggest strengths
Industry-leading active noise cancellation dramatically reduces aircraft engines and other low-frequency sounds.
Rich, detailed audio with impressive clarity across bass, vocals and instruments.
Comfortable, secure fit with multiple ear tip and stability band combinations.
Helpful Bose app includes a Seal Test for optimal fit.
What are the compromises
Premium pricing compared with many rivals, even with regular discounts.
Wireless charging requires purchasing a separate optional charging case.
Immersive Audio mode is only moderately convincing for spatial sound.
Battery life falls noticeably when using spatial audio features.
What is battery life like
Battery life reaches around six hours with active noise cancellation enabled, dropping to roughly four hours when using Immersive Audio. The charging case supplies approximately three additional full charges.
How good is the ANC
The active noise cancellation is among the very best available, suppressing deep aircraft engine noise so effectively it can seem almost silent, making travel and commuting significantly more comfortable.
Verdict
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds remain one of the strongest premium true wireless options thanks to exceptional active noise cancellation, detailed sound quality and a secure, comfortable fit. They’re expensive and the optional wireless charging case feels unnecessary at this price, but frequent discounts make them easier to recommend, especially for travellers and regular commuters seeking best-in-class ANC.
Read our full
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds review
3. Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 – Best earbuds for working out
Pros
- Outstanding detailed sound
- Excellent sound customisation
- Future-ready Bluetooth features
- Improved battery protection
Cons
- Bulky charging case
- ANC trails class leaders
- iPhone misses key features
Best Prices Today:
The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 are premium wireless in-ear earbuds from German audio specialist Sennheiser. They feature Bluetooth 5.4, Auracast support, IP54 protection, wireless charging and 7mm True Response drivers.
Why we like them
The Momentum True Wireless 4 deliver exceptionally balanced, detailed audio with rich bass, crisp highs and extensive sound customisation. Improved battery life, better durability and support for future Bluetooth technologies make them an excellent long-term choice, while strong noise cancellation and a secure fit add everyday versatility.
Who are they best for
They’re ideal for music lovers who prioritise sound quality above everything else, especially Android users who can benefit from advanced Bluetooth features. They’re also well suited to commuters, travellers and fitness users wanting premium audio and a secure fit.
What are the biggest strengths
- Outstanding, highly detailed sound with rich bass and clear mids and highs.
- Extensive personalisation via 5-band EQ, Sound Check and custom controls.
- Bluetooth 5.4 adds Auracast, aptX Lossless and LC3 for future compatibility.
- Secure fit with multiple ear tips and fins plus durable IP54 dust and water resistance.
What are the compromises
- Active noise cancellation is good but still behind Bose, Sony and AirPods Pro.
- iPhone users cannot currently benefit from most new Bluetooth 5.4 features.
- Charging case remains noticeably larger than many competitors.
- Design is virtually unchanged from the previous generation and may feel dated.
What is battery life like
Battery life reaches around seven hours with ANC enabled, extending to roughly 30 hours using the charging case. An eight-minute quick charge provides approximately one hour of playback.
How good is the ANC
Noise cancellation is effective for everyday commuting and travel, reducing most background noise well. However, it doesn’t quite match class-leading rivals like Bose, Sony or Apple’s AirPods Pro, particularly in windy conditions.
Verdict
The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 are among the best-sounding premium wireless earbuds available, combining superb audio quality with impressive customisation, improved durability and future-focused Bluetooth technology. Android users benefit most from the new features, while iPhone owners gain fewer advantages over the previous model. If sound quality is your top priority, they’re an outstanding choice despite slightly behind-the-pack ANC.
Read our full
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 In-ear review
4. Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 – Best for aptX sound
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality
- Innovative smart charging case
- aptX Lossless support
- Comfortable redesigned fit
Cons
- Premium price tag
- Average battery life
- Large earpieces
Best Prices Today:
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 are premium true wireless earbuds from British audio specialist Bowers & Wilkins. Their standout smart charging case doubles as an aptX transmitter for wired devices and Apple products.
Why we like them
The Pi8 combine superb hi-fi sound with a genuinely innovative charging case that unlocks higher-quality aptX audio from Apple devices and wired sources. Their redesigned fit improves comfort, while powerful 12mm drivers deliver rich, detailed sound that stands out from most premium wireless earbuds.
Who are they best for
They’re ideal for audiophiles and frequent travellers who prioritise outstanding sound quality over price. Apple users wanting better-than-AAC wireless audio and anyone regularly using in-flight entertainment systems will especially appreciate the versatile smart case.
What are the biggest strengths
- Outstanding, detailed and dynamic sound quality
- Unique smart case retransmits wired audio wirelessly
- Supports AAC, aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless
- Comfortable redesigned shape with four ear-tip sizes
- Large 12mm drivers deliver powerful, refined performance
- Excellent low-frequency noise reduction for travel
What are the compromises
- Significantly more expensive than many rivals
- Battery life is respectable rather than class-leading
- Earpieces remain relatively large
- ANC trails AirPods Pro for higher-frequency sounds
- Smart case benefits may be unnecessary for casual listeners
- Pi6 offers similar experience for less if aptX retransmission isn’t needed
What is battery life like?
Battery life reaches up to 6.5 hours per charge with ANC enabled, while the smart charging case extends total listening time to around 20 hours between mains charging.
How good is the ANC?
Noise cancellation is very effective, especially against low-frequency sounds like aircraft engine rumble. However, it doesn’t suppress higher-frequency background noise quite as effectively as Apple’s AirPods Pro.
Verdict
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 are premium earbuds aimed squarely at listeners who value sound quality above all else. Their excellent audio performance, comfortable redesign and genuinely innovative smart charging case justify much of the high asking price. Battery life and ANC are good rather than class-leading, but the Pi8 remain among the most compelling luxury true wireless earbuds available.
Read our full
Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 review
5. Apple AirPods Pro 2nd-generation (2023) – Best value AirPods
Pros
- Excellent sound quality
- Outstanding noise cancellation
- Class-leading transparency mode
- Useful Apple ecosystem features
Cons
- No lossless audio
- Premium purchase price
- Stem controls feel fiddly
Best Prices Today:
The AirPods Pro 2 might have been officially discontinued by Apple when the AirPods Pro 3 arrived, but we still see them for sale offering outstanding value for most buyers. That’s why they are still on our list. Despite the arrival of the new AirPods Pro, these are still premium true wireless noise-cancelling earbuds. They feature the H2 chip, USB-C charging case, hearing health features, swipe volume controls and seamless integration with Apple devices.
Why we like them
While the AirPods Pro 3 introduce improvements such as better ANC, longer battery life, heart-rate tracking and a more secure fit, many of the software features people use every day – such as Hearing Aid, Live Translation, Conversation Awareness and Adaptive Audio – are also available on the AirPods Pro 2 through software updates.
Who are they best for
They are best for iPhone, iPad and Mac users wanting premium everyday earbuds with strong ANC, comfortable all-day wear and effortless Apple ecosystem integration. Frequent travellers, commuters and users interested in hearing health features will benefit most.
What are the biggest strengths
- Richer, clearer sound with significantly stronger bass
- Excellent Active Noise Cancellation for travel and commuting
- Best-in-class Transparency mode with Adaptive Transparency
- Comfortable fit with four ear tip sizes, including XS
- Handy swipe volume controls on each earbud
- Deep Apple ecosystem integration with useful smart features
What are the compromises
- More expensive than many rivals
- Better pure sound quality available elsewhere
- No lossless, hi-res or LE Audio support
- Stem swipe controls can be awkward
- Most advanced features require Apple devices
- Six-hour battery trails some competitors
What is battery life like
Battery life is rated at up to six hours of listening from the earbuds on a charge, with around 24 hours total using the charging case. Apple Watch charging is also supported.
How good is the ANC
Active Noise Cancellation is excellent, blocking substantially more outside noise than the original AirPods Pro. Adaptive Transparency intelligently reduces sudden loud sounds while still allowing important environmental sounds to remain audible.
Verdict
The AirPods Pro 2 remain among the best premium wireless earbuds for Apple users. They combine impressive sound quality, highly effective ANC, exceptional transparency mode and excellent ecosystem integration in a comfortable, refined package. While audiophiles can find better-sounding alternatives and battery life isn’t class-leading, the overall user experience is polished, reliable and difficult to beat within Apple’s ecosystem. As long as you can find them on sale.
Read our full
AirPods Pro 2 USB-C review
6. Apple AirPods 4 with ANC – Best AirPods for most people
Pros
- Excellent overall sound quality
- Effective active noise cancellation
- Improved, more comfortable fit
- Useful wireless charging caser
Cons
- Fit varies by user
- ANC limited by open design
- Close to Pro pricing
Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation are open-fit true wireless earbuds. They include the H2 chip, Adaptive Audio, Transparency, Conversation Awareness, and a USB-C charging case with Find My speaker support.
Why we like them
The AirPods 4 with ANC deliver many premium features previously reserved for the AirPods Pro while keeping the familiar open-ear design. They sound excellent, offer genuinely useful noise cancellation, include smart conversation features, and have a more comfortable fit than earlier standard AirPods.
Who are they best for
They’re ideal for Apple users who dislike silicone ear tips but still want active noise cancellation and premium features. They’re also well suited to commuters, casual listeners, and anyone wanting excellent everyday wireless earbuds without stepping up to the AirPods Pro.
What are the biggest strengths
- Clear, balanced sound with strong bass and crisp vocals
- Surprisingly effective ANC for an open-fit design
- Comfortable fit improves over previous AirPods
- Conversation Awareness works well during one-to-one chats
- Wireless charging case with Find My speaker adds convenience
- Excellent voice quality for calls and podcasts
What are the compromises
- Open design limits maximum noise cancellation
- Fit depends heavily on individual ear shape
- AirPods Pro fit more securely with silicone tips
- No MagSafe charging support on the case
- ANC reduces battery life noticeably
- AirPods Pro can be similarly priced on sale
What is battery life like
With ANC enabled, Apple rates battery life at four hours plus 20 hours from the case. Disable ANC and it rises to five hours with 30 hours total. Testing slightly exceeded estimates.
How good is the ANC
The ANC is impressively effective for open-fit earbuds, reducing most everyday noise while preserving awareness. It cannot completely block sound, however, so the AirPods Pro remain the stronger choice for isolation.
Verdict
The AirPods 4 with ANC successfully bridge the gap between Apple’s standard AirPods and the AirPods Pro. They offer excellent sound, genuinely useful noise cancellation, a more comfortable fit, and several premium features at a lower price than the Pro model. Their biggest limitation is the open design, which affects both fit and ultimate noise isolation, but they’re an excellent all-round choice for many listeners.
Read our full
Apple AirPods 4 (with ANC) review
7. Beats Powerbeats Fit – Best for running and gym workouts
Pros
- Secure flexible wingtip fit
- Strong workout stability
- Long total battery life
- Works well with Android
Cons
- No wireless charging
- Older H1 chip
- ANC trails AirPods Pro 3
Best Prices Today:
The Powerbeats Fit are true wireless sports earbuds made by Beats, an Apple company. They feature flexible wingtips, Apple’s H1 chip, USB-C charging, Adaptive EQ, and up to 30 hours’ battery.
Why we like them
The Powerbeats Fit are designed for active lifestyles, offering a secure fit that stays comfortable through runs, gym sessions and workouts. They deliver dependable Apple ecosystem features, solid sound quality, good battery life and broad compatibility with Android devices, making them more versatile than many sports earbuds.
Who are they best for?
They’re ideal for runners, gym-goers and fitness enthusiasts who need earbuds that stay firmly in place during exercise. They’re also a smart choice for users who switch between Apple and Android devices and value stability over premium audio performance.
What are the biggest strengths
- Flexible wingtips provide an exceptionally secure workout fit.
- Comfortable design remains stable during running and training.
- Up to 30 hours total battery life with charging case.
- Excellent Apple integration including Siri, Find My and automatic device switching.
- Better Android support than AirPods.
What are the compromises
- No wireless charging; USB-C cable only.
- H1 chip limits audio and feature improvements.
- Noise cancellation is noticeably weaker than AirPods Pro 3.
- Missing XXS ear tip option.
- Sound quality isn’t as detailed or immersive as Apple’s latest earbuds.
What is battery life like
Expect up to seven hours of listening from the earbuds alone, extending to around 30 hours with the charging case. That’s excellent for travel, commuting and multiple workout sessions.
How good is the ANC?
Noise cancellation is solid for everyday use, reducing background distractions effectively. However, it performs closer to the original AirPods Pro than AirPods Pro 3, whose ANC is significantly more powerful.
Verdict
The Powerbeats Fit are an excellent choice for anyone who prioritises comfort and stability during exercise. Their secure wingtip design, lengthy battery life and Apple-friendly features make them dependable workout companions. While sound quality and ANC fall behind the AirPods Pro 3, they’re more versatile across platforms and remain one of the strongest sports-focused true wireless earbuds available.
Read our full
Powerbeats Fit review
8. Beats Studio Buds+ – Best alternative to AirPods
Pros
- Fun transparent design
- Improved sound quality
- Effective active noise cancellation
- Strong battery life
Cons
- No wireless charging
- Missing Apple ecosystem features
- AirPods Pro sound better
The Beats Studio Buds + are true wireless earbuds made by Beats, an Apple subsidiary. Released in 2023, they feature a distinctive transparent design, USB-C charging and support for Apple and Android.
Why we like them
The Beats Studio Buds + combine stylish design, improved sound quality, capable active noise cancellation and long battery life at a price similar to standard AirPods. Physical buttons are easier to use than AirPods controls, while Android compatibility makes them a genuinely flexible choice across different devices.
Who are they best for
They’re best for people who switch between Apple and Android devices, or anyone wanting effective ANC, comfortable earbuds and eye-catching styling without paying AirPods Pro prices. They’re less suited to users deeply invested in Apple’s ecosystem.
What are the biggest strengths
- Unique transparent design with alternative colours
- Better sound than previous Studio Buds
- Improved ANC and transparency performance
- Comfortable fit with four ear tip sizes
- Physical button controls are intuitive
- Strong battery life and competitive pricing
What are the compromises
- No wireless charging support
- Lacks Apple’s H1 or H2 chip
- Misses automatic device switching
- No personalised spatial audio or Conversation Boost
- No in-ear detection for auto pause
- ANC and sound quality trail AirPods Pro
What is battery life like
Battery life is rated at up to six hours with active noise cancellation enabled or nine hours without it. The charging case provides roughly three additional full recharges.
How good is the ANC
Noise cancellation is noticeably improved over the original Studio Buds and performs well for the price. However, it still falls short of the more advanced and adaptive AirPods Pro system.
Verdict
The Beats Studio Buds + are an excellent alternative to standard AirPods, offering better sound, effective ANC, impressive battery life and standout styling at a competitive price. They also work well with both Apple and Android devices. However, users wanting the full Apple ecosystem experience and the very best sound should still choose AirPods Pro if their budget stretches further.
Read our full
Beats Studio Buds+ review
9. Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 – Best for active lifestyles
Pros
- Secure, comfortable earhook fit
- Excellent workout stability
- Heart rate monitoring
- Strong battery endurance
Cons
- Missing AirPods Pro features
- Heart rate limitations
Best Prices Today:
The Beats’ Powerbeats Pro 2 are premium fitness-focused true wireless earbuds made by Beats, an Apple-owned company. They feature Apple’s H2 chip, secure earhooks, built-in heart rate monitoring, and USB-C charging.
Why we like them
The Powerbeats Pro 2 combine an exceptionally secure fit with improved sound, effective noise cancellation and class-leading workout comfort. Heart rate monitoring adds genuine fitness appeal, while Apple’s H2 chip delivers fast pairing, excellent transparency mode and seamless integration across Apple devices, making them superb exercise companions.
Who are they best for
They’re best for runners, gym-goers and anyone wanting earbuds that stay securely in place during intense exercise. Apple users will benefit most, though Android owners also receive a stronger feature set than they would with AirPods.
What are the biggest strengths
- Secure earhooks stay firmly in place during workouts.
- Smaller, lighter design improves comfort over long sessions.
- H2 chip enables excellent transparency mode and strong ANC.
- Built-in heart rate monitoring works with supported fitness apps.
- Long battery life and fast charging reduce downtime.
- Improved Android support with dedicated Beats features.
What are the compromises
- Lacks several AirPods Pro software features, including Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness.
- Heart rate monitoring is limited to supported apps.
- Apple Watch overrides earbud heart rate readings.
- Sound is slightly brighter than AirPods Pro 2.
- Wireless charging supports Qi only, not MagSafe or Qi2.
What is battery life like
Battery life is excellent, with up to 10 hours of listening per charge, or around 8 hours using ANC or transparency mode. The charging case provides approximately 3.5 additional charges.
How good is the ANC
Active noise cancellation is a major improvement over the original model, delivering strong everyday performance. Transparency mode is particularly impressive, sounding natural and approaching the excellent standard set by AirPods Pro 2.
Verdict
The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 are among the best fitness earbuds available, combining a secure fit, long battery life, heart rate monitoring and excellent Apple ecosystem integration. While they miss several AirPods Pro software features and their sound is slightly brighter than Apple’s flagship earbuds, they’re an outstanding choice for workouts and active lifestyles.
Read our full
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 review
10. Bowers & Wilkins Pi6
Pros
- Rich, detailed sound quality
- Comfortable long-wearing fit
- Strong battery endurance
- Competitive premium pricing
Cons
- ANC trails top rivals
- No wireless charging
- No spatial audio
Best Prices Today:
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 are premium true wireless noise-cancelling earbuds from British audio specialist Bowers & Wilkins, featuring 12mm drivers, Bluetooth 5.4, IP54 durability and multipoint connectivity.
Why we like them
The Pi6 deliver the refined, engaging sound quality Bowers & Wilkins is known for at a more accessible price than the flagship Pi8. They’re comfortable for extended listening, offer useful app customisation, solid battery life and excellent overall value despite a few premium feature omissions.
Who are they best for?
They’re ideal for listeners who prioritise sound quality over cutting-edge features. Frequent commuters, music lovers and anyone wanting premium wireless earbuds around AirPods Pro pricing will appreciate their balanced audio, comfortable fit and dependable battery performance.
What are the biggest strengths?
- Detailed, dynamic sound with excellent balance
- Large 12mm drivers inspired by B&W headphones
- Comfortable fit with four ear-tip sizes
- Eight-hour battery life with ANC enabled
- Multipoint Bluetooth connection for two devices
- IP54 water and dust resistance for everyday use
What are the compromises?
- ANC is good, not class-leading
- No Qi wireless charging support
- No Pi8 smart charging case
- No spatial audio functionality
- App lacks full EQ presets
- Higher-frequency sounds remain noticeable with ANC enabled
What is battery life like?
Battery life is impressive, offering up to eight hours of playback with active noise cancellation switched on. The USB-C charging case provides an additional 24 hours of listening time.
How good is the ANC?
Noise cancellation performs well against low-frequency sounds such as engine rumble but is less effective with voices and higher-frequency noise, leaving rivals from Bose, Sony and Apple with the advantage.
Verdict
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 are an excellent choice if your priority is premium sound quality without paying flagship prices. Their engaging audio, comfortable design and long battery life make them highly appealing, even if the ANC, wireless charging and feature set don’t quite match the very best competitors. For music-first buyers, they’re easy to recommend.
Read our full
Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 review
11. Sennheiser Accentum True Wireless
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Comfortable lightweight fit
- Impressive sound quality
- Effective everyday ANC
Cons
- ANC not class-leading
- Average battery endurance
- Limited long-haul suitability
Best Prices Today:
Designed as a more affordable alternative to its Momentum earbuds (above), Sennheiser’s Accentum True Wireless are in-ear wireless earbuds made by German audio specialist Sennheiser. They feature 7mm drivers, IP54 water and dust resistance, AAC and aptX support, plus adjustable EQ.
Why we like them
The Accentum True Wireless deliver impressive sound quality and capable active noise cancellation at a much lower price than many premium rivals. They’re comfortable enough for extended listening, include useful app customisation features, and provide a balanced combination of performance, practicality and affordability for everyday listening.
Who are they best for
They’re ideal for listeners wanting premium audio features without paying flagship prices. Great for commuters, casual travellers and everyday users who value comfort, strong sound quality and reliable noise cancellation more than maximum battery life.
What are the biggest strengths
- Outstanding value compared with premium rivals.
- Rich, detailed sound from the same 7mm drivers used in the Momentum range.
- Lightweight, comfortable design with four ear-tip sizes.
- IP54 water and dust resistance for everyday outdoor use.
- Handy companion app with five-band EQ and adjustable transparency mode.
What are the compromises
- Active noise cancellation doesn’t match the very best premium earbuds.
- Six-hour battery life is respectable rather than exceptional.
- Charging case provides only around 2.5 additional charges.
- Better suited to daily commuting than long-haul travel.
- Lacks the outright premium performance of Sennheiser’s Momentum earbuds.
What is battery life like
Battery life reaches around six hours with active noise cancellation enabled, while the charging case provides roughly two and a half extra charges, making it well suited to everyday use.
How good is the ANC
Active noise cancellation performs well for everyday commuting and reducing typical background noise, although it doesn’t block sound as effectively as more expensive flagship competitors in particularly noisy environments.
Verdict
The Sennheiser Accentum True Wireless strike an excellent balance between price and performance. They offer impressive sound quality, comfortable all-day wear, practical features and effective everyday noise cancellation without the premium price tag. While battery life and ANC aren’t class-leading, they’re more than good enough for most users, making these an easy recommendation for affordable everyday wireless earbuds.
Read our full
Sennheiser Accentum True Wireless review
12. Beats Solo Buds
Pros
- Surprisingly clear, punchy sound
- Excellent 18-hour battery life
- Secure, comfortable ear fit
- Compact, pocket-friendly case
Cons
- No active noise cancellation
- Charging case lacks battery
- Missing premium smart features
The Beats Solo Buds are affordable true wireless earbuds made by Beats, an Apple company. Released in mid-2024, they feature a tiny USB-C charging case, four ear tip sizes and 18-hour battery life.
Why we like them
The Beats Solo Buds deliver impressive value with punchy, enjoyable sound, an exceptionally long battery life for earbuds, and a secure fit thanks to four sizes of silicone ear tips. They’re comfortable, easy to control using physical buttons, and outperform older standard AirPods in several key areas.
Who are they best for
They’re ideal for budget-conscious listeners who want reliable everyday wireless earbuds with long battery life and comfortable fit. They’re particularly well suited to Apple users, but also work well with Android devices, making them a versatile affordable option.
What are the biggest strengths
- Clear, punchy sound that exceeds expectations for the price.
- Outstanding 18-hour battery life from the earbuds.
- Secure fit with four sizes of silicone ear tips.
- Compact, lightweight case that’s easy to carry.
- Physical button controls are simple and reliable.
- Excellent value compared with similarly priced rivals.
What are the compromises
- No active noise cancellation or transparency mode.
- Charging case has no built-in battery for top-ups.
- Lacks automatic device switching and multipoint Bluetooth.
- No in-ear detection for automatic play/pause.
- Call voice isolation isn’t as strong as premium earbuds.
- No personalised Spatial Audio features.
What is battery life like
Battery life is excellent. The earbuds are rated for up to 18 hours on a single charge, outperforming many rivals, although the charging case must be plugged into USB-C to recharge them.
How good is the ANC
There isn’t any active noise cancellation. Instead, the silicone ear tips provide passive noise isolation, reducing some outside sound, but they can’t match dedicated ANC earbuds in noisy environments.
Verdict
The Beats Solo Buds prove you don’t need to spend a fortune for enjoyable wireless earbuds. Their clear sound, secure fit and exceptional battery life make them an excellent value buy, especially for everyday listening. While you’ll miss premium features like ANC, multipoint Bluetooth and a battery-equipped charging case, they’re an easy recommendation for budget-conscious shoppers
Read our full
Beats Solo Buds review
13. Apple AirPods 4 (without ANC)
Pros
- Comfortable redesigned fit
- Excellent sound quality
- H2 chip performance
- Great Apple ecosystem integration
Cons
- No active noise cancellation
- No wireless charging
- Shorter earbud battery life
Best Prices Today:
Apple AirPods 4 are true wireless earbuds from Apple. They feature the H2 chip, redesigned open-ear fit, USB-C charging, Personalised Spatial Audio and improved sound, but omit ANC and wireless charging.
Why we like them
The standard AirPods 4 deliver many of the same upgrades as the pricier ANC model, including improved sound, a more secure fit and Apple’s H2 chip. They represent a significant step forward from the AirPods 2 while keeping the same affordable starting price, making them excellent everyday earbuds.
Who are they best for
They’re ideal for Apple users wanting premium everyday wireless earbuds without paying extra for noise cancellation. They’re especially suited to commuting, calls and casual listening where comfort, convenience and seamless Apple device integration matter more than advanced isolation.
What are the biggest strengths
- Comfortable redesigned open fit
- H2 chip improves responsiveness
- Strong, balanced audio quality
- Personalised Spatial Audio support
- Excellent Apple ecosystem integration
- USB-C charging convenience
- Improved durability with IP54 rating
- Great value at entry price
What are the compromises
- No Active Noise Cancellation
- No Transparency mode
- No Adaptive Audio features
- No Conversation Awareness
- USB-C charging only
- No wireless charging support
- No Find My case speaker
- Shorter battery than AirPods 3
What is battery life like
Battery life is rated at up to five hours per charge, with the USB-C charging case extending total listening time to around 30 hours. A five-minute charge provides about one hour’s playback.
How good is the ANC
There isn’t any Active Noise Cancellation. Users wanting ANC, Transparency mode or Adaptive Audio must choose the more expensive AirPods 4 with ANC, as these features aren’t included on the standard model.
Verdict
The standard AirPods 4 are an excellent upgrade over Apple’s older entry-level AirPods, offering noticeably improved comfort, sound quality and smarter features thanks to the H2 chip. While missing ANC and wireless charging limits their appeal for frequent travellers, they remain one of the best value options for Apple users wanting dependable everyday wireless earbuds.
How to choose earbud headphones
There are a few factors to consider before you hit that buy button.
Type
Earbuds, or in-ear headphones, typically fall into three main categories:
Earbuds – the type of headphones included with every iPhone and iPod and sit loosely in your outer ears. Although earbuds don’t produce outstanding sound, they’re compact and relatively inexpensive. Apple’s stock ‘buds are actually decent as earbuds go; you’re not going to get a huge upgrade in sound quality by simply replacing them with a different model. Still, there are a few alternatives out there that provide modest improvements if you’re looking for a new set. Recommendations:
In-Ear-Canal Headphones: These headphones, also known as canalphones, use silicone or foam eartips that fit snugly—and fairly deep—in your ear canals. Like earplugs, they block most external noise, so they’re great for travel and noisy environments. They’re also capable of producing stunning audio quality. On the other hand, some people find canalphones to be uncomfortable, and the best ones come with an equally stunning price tag. If you decide to spend the big bucks on a set of high-end canalphones, we enthusiastically recommend going all-in and getting custom eartips—tips custom-made for your particular ears. The process requires an audiologist visit to get impressions taken of your ears, but the benefits include substantially better comfort. (On some models, you may gain better noise isolation and better sound quality, as well.) A step above custom eartips are custom in-ear monitors, which place the actual headphone circuitry in larger, custom-made earpieces.
Canalbuds: Canalbuds, which occupy a middle ground between earbuds and in-ear-canal models, have become quite popular. Compared to canalphones, canalbuds generally use smaller eartips that sit just inside the ends of your ear canals instead of deep inside them. Good canalbuds easily best earbuds in terms of audio performance and noise isolation, but fall short of good canalphones in those areas. On the other hand, canalbuds tend to be more comfortable than true canalphones because they don’t sit so deep and don’t fit so tightly; they’re also usually less expensive. (See our in-ear-canal-headphone primer, linked above, for more information on canalbuds.)
Battery life
This is crucial as many in-ear headphones have tiny batteries that help to keep the weight down but may only last for a few hours. That might be fine if you just want to listen to some music while you’re working out, but won’t be much use on a long journey by train or plane.
However, some in-ear headphones, such as Apple’s AirPods, also include a charging case that can top up the battery, so that’s something you should check on before buying any in-ear headphones.
Noise canceling
Some headphones are specifically designed for people who travel a lot or use headphones in noisy conditions and provide active noise-canceling (ANC) option that helps to block out background noise on trains and planes – although this can add quite a lot to the overall price of the headphones.
Note this isn’t to be confused with passive noise isolation (or often referred to as canceling), which is just the way physically having headphones in/on blocks sound – like putting earplugs or ear defenders on.
Sound quality
We’d always recommend trying out any new headphones in a store or showroom whenever possible, but we realise that’s not always practical or hygenic.
Compatibility
Most wireless headphones support Apple’s preferred AAC Bluetooth codec, ensuring good compatibility with iPhones, iPads and Macs. Many also support additional codecs such as aptX Adaptive, aptX Lossless, LDAC or LC3/LE Audio, which can deliver higher bit rates, lower latency or improved efficiency when paired with compatible Android phones and other devices.
Apple devices have never supported Qualcomm’s aptX family of codecs, instead relying on AAC for Bluetooth audio. While this has often been attributed to Apple’s preference for controlling its own audio ecosystem, it also means Apple users can’t take advantage of newer Qualcomm codecs such as aptX Adaptive or aptX Lossless when using third-party headphones.
That isn’t necessarily the drawback it once was. AAC remains a very capable codec, and Apple’s implementation is widely regarded as one of the best, delivering consistent sound quality and excellent battery efficiency. However, Android users with compatible devices may be able to enjoy higher-resolution or lower-latency wireless audio through codecs such as LDAC or aptX Lossless.
For Apple users, the most important thing is that headphones support AAC, as this provides the best wireless experience across iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch. If a pair also supports codecs such as aptX Adaptive or LDAC, that’s a useful bonus if you also own Android devices or other compatible hardware.
There are a few exceptions. Some premium headphones and earbuds, such as the Bowers & Wilkins Pi8, include a smart charging case that can act as a wireless audio transmitter. By connecting the case directly to a USB-C or 3.5mm audio source, it can stream audio to the earbuds using aptX Adaptive, bypassing the Bluetooth limitations of the source device and potentially improving sound quality and reducing latency.
It’s also worth noting that all of the Bluetooth headphones featured here work with Apple Watch, making them ideal for workouts, runs and listening on the go.
