Fairphone Fairbuds XL Review 2025: Features Bose and Sony Should Have

Explore how Fairphone Fairbuds XL blend eco-friendly innovation with unique features that set them apart from Bose and Sony.

A Fresh Yet Familiar Sound Revolution

After two and a half years since their eco-conscious debut, Fairphone is back with the Fairphone Fairbuds XL 2025—not a flashy version 2.0, but an upgraded model that keeps the spirit of the originals alive while packing in some thoughtful improvements. If you're like me, someone who's always on the lookout for tech that doesn't just sound good but also reflects values, these earbuds promise a lot more than just tunes.

Fairphone has always been synonymous with sustainability. Their smartphones, like the Fairphone 6 released mid-2025, are crafted from recycled materials and designed to last, cutting down on electronic waste. The Fairbuds XL continue this trend, boasting more recycled components and a longer warranty. But what really surprised me is how these earbuds bring back a modular design—yes, you can replace parts yourself if something breaks, which is a refreshing departure from the disposable nature of many modern gadgets.

Fairphone Fairbuds XL (2025): Price and Release

• Launch Date: December 9, 2025
• Price: $300
• Availability: Currently available

Announced on December 9, 2025, these earbuds keep the same price tag as the original model ($300), which might feel a bit steep given some competitors' prices. But remember, this isn’t just about specs—it's about longevity and conscience.

Tech Spec Snapshot: Fairphone Fairbuds XL (2025)

What Makes Fairbuds XL Tick? Features Breakdown

• Impressive 30-hour battery life that keeps you jamming all day.
• Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) that pairs well with the passive noise-blocking fabric cups.
• Minimalist app offering an equalizer and firmware updates, without overwhelming complexity.

Now, here’s the catch: these earbuds keep things simple, almost too simple. No “find my earbuds,” no auto-pause when you take them off, no spatial sound. The Fairphone app mainly offers an equalizer (with presets like “Amsterdam” standing out) and firmware updates, plus the handy ability to order replacement parts.

ANC can be toggled with a physical button—no app control here—with three modes: on, off, and “Ambient” (transparency). It’s not the most high-tech noise cancellation I've heard but does a solid job blocking out background noise when combined with those cozy fabric ear cups.

Battery life at 30 hours is solid, though some rivals now boast 80 hours. Fairphone claims the battery will last at least 500 charge cycles (about 15,000 hours of playtime), which is reassuring for anyone planning to keep these buds long-term.

Feature Rating: 3.5/5

Design That Makes A Statement

• Durable and sturdy build that feels built to last.
• Comfortable fit even for longer listening sessions.
• A joystick control that is surprisingly delightful to use.

These aren’t your run-of-the-mill headphones. The fabric-wrapped headband and earcups, paired with protruding plastic hinges and a unique double-tier cup design, give these babies personality. I tested the green variant, which is playful and original, though a black option is available too.

At 330 grams, they might feel a bit hefty for some, but the adjustable headband and movable ear cushions allow a surprisingly good fit for various head shapes. Unlike some competitors, you can’t lay the cups flat, but the overall comfort made me forget about it quickly.

On the right earcup is the ANC toggle and Bluetooth button—and then, the showstopper: a tiny joystick. This little controller handles power, play/pause, volume up/down, and track skipping with simple presses and slides. Honestly, it’s the best physical control I’ve come across on headphones, making interaction a breeze.

Fairphone’s commitment to sustainability shines through: the 2023 models already used 100% recycled plastic and aluminum, but the 2025 version steps it up—100% of cobalt, copper, and silver are sourced through fair trade, rare earth materials are recycled, and the assembly uses 100% renewable energy. Modular parts mean you can replace damaged components easily, backed by a generous three-year warranty.

Design Rating: 5/5

Sound Quality: Warm and Engaging, Yet Limited

• 40 mm drivers providing warm, powerful sound.
• Energetic bass lines that bring music to life.
• A somewhat narrow soundstage that limits instrument separation.

While these buds still use the same 40 mm drivers as before, they’ve been retuned for a more balanced sound, though my ears caught a bit of that classic Fairphone character: energetic and straightforward rather than polished or analytical.

Songs like “Lay Down” by O.A.R. and “Once A Day” by Michael Franti really shine with their bold horns and rich bass, injecting infectious energy into your ears. On the flip side, tracks with complex layers, such as “Somewhere in Between” by Morningsiders, can feel a bit flat, lacking crisp separation.

Fairphone’s signature warmth helps keep the bass and midrange clear enough to enjoy, but the soundstage isn’t as wide as I’d wish—it makes some instruments blur together rather than dance around you.

Tech tidbit: Fairbuds XL connect via Bluetooth 5.1 and support aptX HD for high-res 24-bit wireless streaming, if your device supports it. Not many codecs are available beyond that, though.

Sound Quality Rating: 3.5/5

Balancing Price with Longevity

• Pricier than expected based on features alone.
• Long lifespan and repairability enhance overall value.

If you stack the Fairbuds XL against peers in the $300 range, they might not win on features or sound quality alone. They lack the bells and whistles of rivals, and their sonic prowess doesn’t outshine the heavy-hitters.

But here’s the twist: these earbuds are built to last. While you might be replacing your Sony WH-1000XM6 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra every year or two as batteries die or parts fail, the Fairbuds XL are designed to keep going—and going. That extended warranty and modular repairability means you’re investing in durability, not just hype.

In a world where tech often feels disposable, that adds up to real value if you're playing the long game.

Price-Value Rating: 4/5

Fairphone Fairbuds XL (2025): Ratings at a Glance

Alternatives Worth Considering

House of Marley Positive Vibration Rebel
More affordable, with wood and recycled aluminum construction, plus a longer-lasting battery.

Sony WH-1000XM5
Sony’s Green Management 2025 program makes these relatively eco-friendly, and older models can be cheaper than Fairbuds XL, with stellar sound and features.

My Journey Testing the Fairbuds XL

• Duration: 3 weeks of hands-on use
• Testing environments: Home, walks, public transit, gym

I rocked the Fairbuds XL mostly streaming Spotify and Tidal on my Android, but I also dabbled in Netflix, Prime Video, and gaming. Whether commuting, working out, or chilling at home, these earbuds proved reliable and enjoyable companions.

“Instead of the usual array of touch controls, the joystick is so intuitive and responsive, I wonder why bigger companies haven’t copied it yet.”
— Fairphone Fairbuds XL Reviewer

FAQ

• How long does the battery last with ANC enabled?
  About 30 hours, which is decent though not class-leading.
• Can I control ANC modes via the app?
  No, ANC toggling is done through a physical button on the earcup.
• Are the earbuds water-resistant?
  Yes, they have an IP54 rating, offering protection against dust and splashes.
• What makes the joystick special?
  It allows volume, playback, and track changes with intuitive presses and slides—far more tactile than typical touch controls.
• Is the warranty longer than other earbuds?
  Yes, Fairphone offers a three-year warranty, longer than many competitors.

If you love the vibe of Fairphone’s eco-friendly ethos and want to bring that spirit into your space, why not shop your favorite album cover poster at our store? It’s a perfect way to celebrate music and mindful tech together. Explore posters here.