Cut the Cord: The 10 Best True Wireless Earbuds for Crystal Clear Sound

 

This blog compares top wireless earbuds on sound, battery, and features. We break down AirPods Pro, Sony WF-1000XM4, Beats Fit Pro and more to find the best wireless earbuds for you.

## Introduction

In recent years, wireless earbuds have exploded in popularity, becoming one of the most desirable accessories in tech. Their ultra-portable design and lack of cables provide unmatched freedom and convenience for listening to music, podcasts, audiobooks, and more on the go. Whether you're working out at the gym, commuting to work, or just living an active lifestyle, wireless earbuds enable you to immerse yourself in rich, detailed audio anywhere.

A few key factors have driven the success of wireless earbuds and distinguished them from traditional wired earbuds:

- **Portability** - Without any wires to connect the earbuds together or to your device, wireless earbuds are incredibly lightweight and portable. They easily fit in your pocket and generally come with a charging case that's also highly compact. This makes them ideal for an on-the-go lifestyle.

- **Sound quality** - Premium wireless earbuds today deliver crisp highs, deep lows, and clear mids thanks to Bluetooth codec support, inner earbud drivers and speakers, and noise isolation. Sound quality can rival that of wired earbuds.

- **Battery life** - While battery life was once a limitation, recent advances allow wireless earbuds to last between 4-6 hours per charge. Fast charging gives you extra hours of use from just 10-15 minutes in the charging case. The cases also carry multiple extra charges.

- **Connectivity** - Bluetooth support has improved considerably, providing stable connections between your mobile device and earbuds. Some models also have a standalone mode to play audio and take calls directly. 

With major improvements across all these key areas, wireless earbuds have become a must-have tech accessory for many. They represent an untethered and uncompromised audio experience. We'll explore the essential factors to consider when shopping for wireless earbuds so you can find your perfect fit.

## Earbud Design

Earbuds come in a variety of designs, each with their own pros and cons. Here are some of the most common designs to consider:

### In-Ear

In-ear earbuds fit inside your ear canal. They have silicone or foam tips that seal your ear for better noise isolation.

Pros:

- Create a tight seal for better noise cancellation 

- Less sound leakage so others can't hear your audio

- More secure fit for active use

Cons:  

- Can cause ear fatigue over time

- Feel invasive to some users

- Eartips may need to be replaced

### Over-Ear 

Over-ear earbuds have pads that sit on the outside of your ear like headphones. They are larger and more noticeable.

Pros:

- Comfortable for long listening sessions

- Pads block out ambient noise

- Don't put pressure directly on your ear canal

Cons:

- Bulky design limits portability

- Can get warm during extended wear

- Sound leakage is more noticeable 

### Stem vs Stemless

Stem earbuds have a protruding section that extends down from the bud. Stemless sit flush inside your ear.

Stem designs are bulkier but offer more room for controls and microphones. They also make the earbuds easier to handle. Stemless earbuds have a more low-profile and seamless look.

The ideal design comes down to your priorities like fit, portability, and controls. Testing different styles can help determine which is most comfortable for your ears.

## Sound Quality

When it comes to wireless earbuds, sound quality is one of the most important factors to consider. Unlike their wired counterparts, wireless earbuds have additional technology built-in that can impact audio performance.

**Frequency Range**

Most quality wireless earbuds today can reproduce frequencies ranging from 20Hz to 20kHz, covering the full range of human hearing. Higher end models may extend the frequency response slightly beyond 20kHz. This gives wireless earbuds the capability to produce clean, balanced sound across lows, mids, and highs. 

**Drivers**

The driver size and configuration directly affects sound reproduction. Many wireless earbuds utilize single balanced armature drivers or small dynamic drivers around 5-6mm. Flagship models may incorporate dual drivers or larger 10-12mm dynamic drivers for more powerful and detailed sound.

**Noise Isolation/Cancellation**

Noise isolation through a tight seal blocks out ambient sound, allowing you to focus on your music. Active noise cancellation uses microphones to counter external noise in real time. Premium wireless earbuds offer a combination of passive and active noise reduction for the best listening experience in noisy environments.

**How Do They Compare to Wired Earbuds?**

The latest Bluetooth audio codecs like aptX and AAC have helped close the gap in sound quality between wireless and wired. While audiophiles may still notice subtle differences, most casual listeners find the audio performance of quality wireless earbuds comparable to wired options. Just a few years ago, the compromise in sound was much more noticeable with early wireless models.

## Battery Life

Battery life is one of the most important considerations when choosing wireless earbuds. Unlike traditional wired earbuds, wireless earbuds rely on built-in batteries to deliver audio without being tethered to a device. Having sufficient battery life ensures you can listen to music or take calls without interruption.

The average battery life for a pair of wireless earbuds ranges from 4-6 hours of continuous playback per charge. However, playback time can vary substantially depending on the model. More advanced earbuds boast up to 8 hours or more of listening time before needing to be recharged. 

An equally important factor is the battery life of the included charging case. The case holds a built-in battery that can recharge your earbuds multiple times when not in use. This greatly extends the total battery life between full recharges. Premium charging cases often provide an extra 24+ hours of battery life.

When shopping for wireless earbuds, look for models that offer at least 5-6 hours of listening time per charge. Opt for earbuds with a charging case that provides at least one full recharge. This will allow you to use the earbuds all day long without worrying about running out of power. Longer battery life gives you more flexibility and less downtime plugged into an outlet.

## Connectivity

Wireless earbuds connect to your devices via Bluetooth technology. The Bluetooth standard used makes a difference in things like audio quality and latency. The latest Bluetooth 5.0 offers extended range over previous versions like Bluetooth 4.2, as well as the capacity for high-quality audio transmission. 

Higher-end earbuds will support advanced audio codecs like AptX and AAC for optimized sound when paired with compatible devices. Basic SBC is standard for all Bluetooth audio. Codecs like AptX HD, LDAC, and LHDC enable hi-res audio streaming if available on both the earbuds and the source device.

For stability, look for earbuds that offer a strong Bluetooth connection without dropouts or interference. Class 1 Bluetooth radios provide the longest wireless range, up to 800ft or more, while Class 2 tops out around 30ft. 

Multipoint pairing allows the earbuds to maintain connections with two devices simultaneously. This means you can answer a call from your phone even while listening to music on your laptop without having to manually switch between sources. Seamless device switching is convenient and adds to the seamless wireless experience.

Range and signal stability are also impacted by antenna design. Earbuds with external antennas instead of relying solely on internal antennae tend to provide longer, more reliable connections all other factors being equal. This ensures your wireless listening experience isn't impacted as you move around.

## Comfort and Fit

One of the most important factors when choosing wireless earbuds is comfort and fit. You want earbuds that feel secure and comfortable enough to wear for hours at a time without irritation or fatigue.  

### Lightweight and Ergonomic Design

Look for earbuds designed to be lightweight and contoured to the natural shape of the ear. An ergonomic design with smooth, rounded edges helps prevent pressure points that can cause discomfort over time. The size and angle of the earbud itself as well as the eartips should work together to keep the earbud securely in place without feeling bulky. 

Lighter weight earbuds around 0.2 oz or less per bud are ideal for comfortable long-term wear. Heavier earbuds can start to feel fatiguing after a while.

### Eartip Options 

Interchangeable silicone eartips in different sizes allow you to customize the fit. Try different sized eartips to get a snug yet comfortable seal in the ear canal. A proper seal helps optimize sound quality and prevent the earbuds from falling out.  

Earbuds designed with an angled nozzle and oval-shaped eartips can get a better seal than those with circular eartips. Flexible, soft silicone eartips conform to the unique contours of the ear better than harder plastic.

Look for extra stability features like earhooks, fins, or wings to keep the earbuds anchored in place during activities like exercise. Just make sure these don't cause unnecessary pressure.

Getting the right, comfortable fit makes a big difference in being able to enjoy your wireless earbuds. Prioritizing lightweight ergonomic designs and trying different eartips is key.

## Durability and Water Resistance

When choosing wireless earbuds, you'll want to consider how durable they are and how resistant they are to water and sweat. Many earbuds now have an IP rating that indicates their level of water and dust resistance. Here's a quick guide to IP ratings:

- IPX0 - No protection against water

- IPX1 - Protected against dripping water

- IPX2 - Protected against dripping water when tilted up to 15 degrees  

- IPX3 - Protected against spraying water

- IPX4 - Protected against splashing water

- IPX5 - Protected against water jets

- IPX6 - Protected against powerful water jets 

- IPX7 - Protected against immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes

- IPX8 - Protected against immersion in water greater than 1 meter

Look for earbuds with at least an IPX4 rating if you plan to use them for exercising and sweating. IPX7 rated earbuds can be fully submerged in water for short periods of time.

Materials and build quality also affect durability. Plastic earbuds tend to be more prone to damage if dropped, while metal and ceramic materials are more rugged. Reinforced cabling can improve durability as well. Evaluate the quality of materials used and look at product reviews to get a sense of real-world durability when considering various wireless earbud options. The most durable earbuds use premium materials and have an IPX7 or IPX8 rating, but these come at a higher price. You'll have to weigh your needs and budget when deciding on the right level of durability.

## Extra Features

One of the most important considerations when choosing wireless earbuds is what extra features they offer for convenience and usability. Here are some of the most useful extra features to look for:

- **Onboard Controls:** Many wireless earbuds come with onboard controls that allow you to control music playback, volume, calls, and voice assistants without having to take your phone out. Look for earbuds with easy-to-use buttons or touch controls.

- **Voice Assistants:** Support for voice assistants like Siri, Google Assistant, and Alexa allow you to access information, play music, set reminders, and more completely hands-free. This can be extremely convenient when on the go.

- **Hear-Through Mode:** This is a useful safety feature that allows you to hear ambient noise around you while still listening to audio. It's great for being aware when crossing streets or having quick conversations.

- **Companion Apps:** Many premium wireless earbuds come with companion apps that provide features like customizable EQ, touch controls, firmware updates, and extra functionality. While not necessary, apps can add extra convenience.

- **Gaming Mode:** Some earbuds have ultra low latency gaming modes to prevent audio lag when enjoying mobile games or videos. This results in better synchronization between audio and visuals.

- **Find My Earbuds:** A few earbuds have "Find My" features in case you misplace them. You can use the app to make them beep loudly to locate them.

Considering extra features like these will ensure you choose wireless earbuds that offer the most convenient experience for your particular needs and lifestyle. The most premium earbuds tend to have the most complete feature sets.

## Budget vs Premium Options

When shopping for wireless earbuds, you'll find a wide range of prices from under $50 to over $250. Deciding how much to spend depends on your listening needs and budget. Here's an overview of what to expect at different price points:

**Under $100** - Budget wireless earbuds focus on delivering basic functionality like Bluetooth connectivity and decent sound in a compact design. Models in this range often have:

- More basic plastic build that may feel lightweight 

- Shorter battery life, usually around 5 hours per charge

- Fewer extra features like wireless charging or noise cancellation

- Good enough but not premium sound quality 

- No waterproofing unless specified

Good options under $100 include Anker Soundcore Life P2, Taotronics TT-BH092, and Skullcandy Dime.

**$100-150** - Stepping up to mid-range prices gets you improved sound, battery life around 8 hours, better build quality, and some extra features. You can find:

- Sturdier metal/plastic composite build 

- Rapid charging for quick top ups

- Basic water resistance rating

- Touch controls instead of buttons

- Support for virtual assistants like Siri

- Decent noise isolation and sound

Top choices in this range are Apple Airpods Gen 2, Jabra Elite 65t, and Samsung Galaxy Buds 2. 

**$200+** - Premium true wireless earbuds offer excellent sound quality, build, battery life up to 24 hours with the case, extensive features like wireless charging, and advanced noise cancellation. Brands like Sony, Bose, Sennheiser, and Apple's Airpods Pro dominate this tier. While the highest end models offer an unparalleled listening experience, there are diminishing returns on marginal upgrades as prices exceed $200.

Ultimately, even budget wireless earbuds today provide good functionality for everyday listening. Paying more brings better build, sound, and features - but you'll get the most bang for your buck by deciding which specific improvements are worth it for your needs.

## Top Recommendations

When choosing the best wireless earbuds, it's important to consider your budget and needs. Here are some top picks across various price ranges:

### Budget Pick Under $100: Anker Soundcore Life P2

The Anker Soundcore Life P2 offers great value for under $100. Pros:

- Excellent sound quality with bass boost feature 

- Good battery life up to 7 hours per charge

- USB C charging 

- IPX7 waterproof rating

- Voice assistant integration (Siri, Google Assistant)

Cons:

- Case is a bit bulky

- Noise cancellation could be better

### Mid-Range Pick Under $200: Sony WF-1000XM3 

The Sony WF-1000XM3 are some of the best wireless earbuds you can get for under $200. Pros:

- Active noise cancellation is excellent at blocking ambient sound

- Customizable EQ settings in app

- Great audio quality and bass

- Up to 6 hours battery life, 24 hours with case

Cons: 

- Lacks waterproofing 

- Case only charges via USB C

### Premium Pick Over $200: Apple AirPods Pro

The Apple AirPods Pro deliver a seamless user experience for iPhone owners. Pros:

- Excellent active noise cancellation 

- Transparency mode lets in ambient sound when needed

- Comfortable, customizable fit with extra ear tips

- Easy setup and connectivity with iPhones

- Up to 4.5 hours battery life, 24 hours with case

Cons:

- Very expensive 

- Limited features for non-Apple devices

- No waterproofing

### Best Budget True Wireless Earbuds: SoundPEATS TrueFree+

If you're on a tight budget, the SoundPEATS TrueFree+ offer great value under $50. Pros:

- Impressive sound with customizable EQ

- Good battery life up to 5 hours per charge

- Touch controls on each earbud 

- Connects easily to Android and iOS devices

Cons: 

- Bulky case

- No active noise cancellation 

- Not sweat or water resistant