Top Earbuds of 2025: Best 11 Models Reviewed

Explore the best earbuds of 2025, featuring top picks for sound quality, noise cancellation, battery life, and style to suit every budget.

Introduction: Why the Right Earbuds Matter

Since 2019, I've tested over 160 audio products, with my team reviewing more than 300 pairs of earbuds since 2006. This extensive experience allows us to present only the cream of the crop in this top earbuds list for 2025. Whether you’re tuning into a podcast on a long flight, chilling with calm playlists, or gearing up for the day with energetic beats, the right earbuds can completely transform your audio experience.

In 2025, wireless earbuds dominate the market due to advanced Bluetooth codecs, longer-lasting batteries, and sleek, comfortable designs. While this guide primarily focuses on wireless models with the highest ratings, we’ve also included some standout wired options for those prioritizing affordability or high-resolution sound. Each model listed has been thoroughly tested on sound quality, noise cancellation, microphone clarity, and battery life, ensuring you can pick with confidence.

Our current favorite is the Technics EAH-AZ100, boasting crystal-clear sound, immersive audio, and rare three-point multipoint connectivity. For budget-conscious buyers under $100, the Nothing Ear (a) shines with excellent value, while Sony’s WF-C510 delivers rich sound without breaking the bank.

If you’re on a tight budget, consider our guide to the best affordable wireless earbuds or check the full list of wired models below.

Quick Picks: Best Earbuds at a Glance

For those eager to jump straight to the best earbuds, here is a handy summary of our top selections. Scroll down for detailed reviews and the latest deals.

Best Overall Earbuds

1. Technics EAH-AZ100

Pros:

• Powerful, balanced sound with impressive detail
• Extensive technical features
• Comfortable fit and secure wear

Cons:

• Noise cancellation and battery life could improve
• Noticeable sound difference with ANC on/off

Who Should Buy:

• Audiophiles craving superb sound. The Technics EAH-AZ100 offers dynamic, detailed listening that feels natural across genres.
• Users needing multipoint connectivity. The world’s first three-point connection is a game-changer for seamless device switching.

Who Should Skip:

• Heavy users wanting all-night battery life. Battery is average rather than exceptional.
• Those needing top-tier noise cancellation. If silence is your priority, consider the Bose option below.

The 2025 Technics EAH-AZ100 feels truly premium, packing features like adaptive ANC, Bluetooth 5.3 with LDAC support, and a compact design. It’s a nearly perfect package that excels in sound, comfort, and usability.

“Technics EAH-AZ100 delivers sound that needs to be heard to be believed.” – Tech Reviewer

Best Midrange Earbuds

2. Nothing Ear (a)

Pros:

• Lively, energetic sound
• Excellent active noise cancellation for price
• Compact case with stylish design

Cons:

• No wireless charging
• Battery life is average

Who Should Buy:

• Noise-cancellation seekers on a budget
• Music lovers wanting responsive, hi-res LDAC audio

Who Should Skip:

• Fans of spatial audio (not supported here)
• Those prioritizing longer battery life (Sony offers more)

Nothing Ear (a) is a vast improvement, offering premium feel and performance with fun design and smart features like multipoint pairing and automatic wear detection.

Best Budget Earbuds

3. Sony WF-C510

Pros:

• Powerful, clear audio with Sony’s signature tone
• Sony 360 Reality Audio support
• Excellent battery life in earbuds; compact case

Cons:

• Limited extra features
• User EQ is complex
• Single full charge from case

Who Should Buy:

• Those valuing clear, quality sound on a budget
• Buyers seeking great value without compromising audio

Who Should Skip:

• Fans wanting active noise cancellation
• Users needing extended case battery life

Sony WF-C510 proves Sony’s mastery extends to affordable earbuds, with comfort, sound, and essential features well balanced for the price.

Best Noise-Cancelling Earbuds

4. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

Pros:

• Outstanding spatial audio with head tracking
• Lossless codec support
• Industry-leading noise cancellation

Cons:

• Wireless charging requires extra accessory
• Bulkier than most earbuds

Who Should Buy:

• Those prioritizing superior noise cancellation
• Listeners craving immersive audio experiences

Who Should Skip:

• Budget-conscious shoppers
• Users wanting ultra-compact design

Bose leads the pack in ANC technology, creating a near-silent bubble ideal for commuting or flights. The immersive audio adapts dynamically, offering a cinema-like soundstage unmatched by most.

Best Earbuds for Apple Users

5. Apple AirPods Pro 2

Pros:

• Fantastic active noise cancellation
• Excellent sound quality
• Seamless Apple ecosystem integration

Cons:

• Average battery life
• No lossless audio support
• Limited features for Android users

Who Should Buy:

• Apple enthusiasts with multiple devices
• Those wanting premium sound and ANC

Who Should Skip:

• Power users needing longer battery life
• Non-iPhone users (limited functionality)

AirPods Pro 2 are the go-to for Apple fans, combining superb ANC, spatial audio, and smart features like Find My integration and auto device switching. Sound is rich and engaging, making them a versatile daily driver.

Best Earbuds for Samsung Phones

6. Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro

Pros:

• Fantastic sound quality
• Thorough ANC
• Lightweight design

Cons:

• Design might not suit all
• Difficult to change ear tips
• Key features require recent Galaxy phones

Who Should Buy:

• Owners of newer Samsung Galaxy devices
• Fans of deep, immersive sound and ANC

Who Should Skip:

• Budget-conscious buyers (Nothing Ear (a) offers similar features cheaper)
• Those frequently swapping ear tips

The Galaxy Buds 3 Pro impress with powerful sound and ANC optimized for Samsung devices, delivering an immersive listening experience, though some features are locked behind recent Galaxy models.

“These earbuds sound fantastic — some of the best I've tested.” – Audio Reviewer

Longest Battery Life Earbuds

7. JBL Live Beam 3

Pros:

• Great sound improvements
• Unique color touchscreen on case
• Outstanding battery life

Cons:

• Spatial audio profiles are weak
• ANC is good but not best-in-class

Who Should Buy:

• Travelers needing marathon battery life
• Those who love personalizing their gear

Who Should Skip:

• Fans wanting top spatial audio experiences
• Users wanting full controls on earbuds (compromises required)

The JBL Live Beam 3’s standout feature is its marathon battery life, far exceeding many competitors. The playful touchscreen case adds fun customization, while sound and ANC remain strong though not class-leading.

Audiophile-Grade Earbuds

8. Bowers & Wilkins Pi8

Pros:

• Exceptional detail and dynamic range
• Comfortable for extended wear
• Effective noise cancellation

Cons:

• No fit test feature
• No spatial audio
• Average battery life

Who Should Buy:

• Sound quality purists
• Travelers wanting wired audio support via case

Who Should Skip:

• Those excited about spatial audio
• Users wanting full earbud controls

Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 delivers a rich, premium listening experience with great noise isolation and a luxurious feel, ideal for audiophiles who value sound above all.

Best Open-Ear Earbuds

9. Huawei FreeArc

Pros:

• High-level sound for open design
• Excellent value
• Comfortable fit

Cons:

• Android app installation is tricky
• Battery life is decent but not stellar
• Lacks ANC

Who Should Buy:

• Those wanting awareness of surroundings
• Listeners who crave rich sound without isolation

Who Should Skip:

• Android users who dislike sideloading apps
• People in noisy environments needing isolation

Open earbuds like Huawei FreeArc are gaining popularity for letting you stay aware while enjoying strong audio quality, making them perfect for workouts or commuting safely.

“These earbuds sound fantastic — some of the best I've tested.” – Audio Reviewer

Best Wired Earbuds for Most People

10. 1More Triple Driver In-Ear Headphones

Pros:

• Juicy, rich sound
• Solid build and stylish design
• Unbeatable value

Cons:

• Rubber cable tangles easily
• Controller feels cheap

Who Should Buy:

• Those wanting reliable wired earbuds
• Buyers who care about style and sound

Who Should Skip:

• USB-C users (3.5mm only)
• Audiophiles wanting premium finish

A classic since 2017, these 1More earbuds offer bold, detailed sound and solid build quality at a low price, making them a top wired choice for most users.

Best Affordable USB-C Wired Earbuds

11. Skullcandy Set USB-C

Pros:

• Decent sound for price
• Comfortable for long sessions
• Sleek design

Cons:

• No volume buttons on controller
• Cable noise can be distracting
• Not the most detailed sound

Who Should Buy:

• Fans of all-day comfort
• Those wanting understated style

Who Should Skip:

• Users wanting extensive control
• Audiophiles craving deep bass

Skullcandy’s USB-C wired earbuds offer a stylish, budget-friendly solution with solid sound and comfort, ideal for users who want straightforward audio without frills.

How to Choose the Best Earbuds for You

When picking earbuds, consider two key things: what you’ll listen to, and where you’ll use them.

• For noisy commutes, active noise cancellation (ANC) is essential.
• Runners should look for IPX4 or higher water resistance to handle sweat and rain.
• Comfort matters if you plan to wear earbuds for hours.
• Wireless models have improved so much that choosing them doesn’t mean compromising on sound quality.
• Check battery life to avoid interruptions during your favorite tunes.
• Audiophiles should seek earbuds supporting hi-res codecs like LDAC or aptX HD.
• Budget often limits features; weigh what matters more—ANC, battery, or price.
• Trusted brands include Sony, Apple, Cambridge Audio, Jabra, and Nura for reliability.

How We Test Earbuds

Every model in this guide underwent rigorous testing focusing on:

• Features: Connectivity options, app controls, noise cancellation, and battery life are tested under real-world conditions.
• Audio Quality: We listen across music genres and sources (Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, high-res files) to ensure clarity and balanced bass.
• Comfort: Earbuds must fit securely and feel comfortable over extended wear.
• Value: We assess how features and performance stack up against price.
• Comparisons: Direct side-by-side tests help pick the best among peers.

We also test microphones by recording speech samples and evaluate battery life through continuous use tests.

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