Audio company iFi just introduced a new DAC (digital-to-analogue converter) that’s both smaller and lighter than its previous model, and only costs $59. The iFi GO Link 2 connects to a smartphone or other audio-playing device over USB-C and can instantly improve the listening experience on wired headphones.
Wireless earbuds and music streaming services have normalized listening to your favorite songs at a lower quality. For anyone who doesn’t consider themselves an audiophile, that might not matter, but now that several streaming services offer higher sample rates and lossless audio, you might consider other ways of listening. In order to experience all the benefits of high-res or lossless audio, you need wired headphones, something that’s increasingly difficult when most smartphones only have a USB-C port. That’s where the iFi GO Link 2 comes in. The dongle plugs into a USB-C port and lets you connect a pair of wired earbuds while preserving your high quality audio at the same time.
iFi
iFi’s new DAC is eight percent smaller than the previous GO Link and 29 percent lighter, approaching the size of Apple’s USB-C to 3.5mm Headphone Jack dongle. The GO Link 2’s built-in ESS Sabre DAC chipset is supposed to add “6dB of dynamic range between the loudest and quietest moments” and reduce distortion for clearer sound by up to 62 percent when compared to the original GO Link.
Via iFi’s companion Nexis app on Android, the GO Link 2 can also be updated on the go and further customized with digital filters. The GO Link 2 supports two digital filters — one hybrid and one linear — so that you can adjust things to your preferred sound profile. You can also use the Nexis app to set volume limits when you’re listening with the DAC attached.
My parents always used to say, “You get what you pay for,” and at the ripe old age of 33, I’ve often found that to be true. If you buy a knockoff, that’s usually what you’re going to get: an imitation of something that’s cheaper, but probably not quite as good as the real deal. Usually, that’s what you’re going to get. But not always.
Sometimes, if Soundpeats’ new Clip1 wireless earbuds are any indication, what you actually get (for a lot less money) is your favorite new pair of open-style wireless earbuds for the price.
Soundpeats Clip1
The Clip1 are a great-sounding pair of open-style wireless earbuds with an enticing price.
Sound is excellent
Very comfortable
Volume keeps up with ambient noise
Accessible price point
Not a huge fan of the look
Movie mode sounds… bad
Sorry, Bose
I’ve used a few pairs of open wireless earbuds in my day, and there was always one pair that stood as my favorite: Bose’s Ultra Open Earbuds. I personally love Bose’s clip-on design, which is comfortable and (at least in my opinion) looks pretty good—more like a piece of jewelry than a pair of wireless earbuds. Also, Bose’s Ultra Open Earbuds shouldn’t work, but they do. The wireless earbuds actually tuck the speaker behind your ear, while a solid plastic lip rests inside and holds the whole thing in place. Despite that strange, very indirect method of delivering audio, they sound great. There’s just one problem, and that’s that they’re kind of wildly expensive.
Coming up on nearly two years since their release date, the Ultra Open Earbuds are still $300. That’s a steep price to pay for wireless earbuds that you’re probably not going to want to use all the time, every single day. But $70? Now we’re talking.
Unlike Bose’s Ultra Open Earbuds, Soundpeats’ Clip1 start at less than half the price. While you might be raising your eyebrows, wondering what kind of sacrifices you’re making in the sound department, I’m here to tell you that the Clip1 might be a lot less of a compromise than you’d expect. Immediately upon sliding the Clip1 onto my ears and loading up Spotify, I noticed that Soundpeats paid special attention to fidelity.
I started off with some jazz, Wes Montgomery’s “While We’re Young,” and noticed ample low end and very little distortion even with the volume turned up past 75% on my phone. Guitar tones sounded natural and nuanced, like I was in the room. I could hear subtle string buzzes and even the soft fuzz of the recording process from 1961, an artifact of how the tune was recorded back then. More than a solid start.
Other genres translated equally as well. I listened to some rock songs with a lot more going on instrument-wise and in the production department, and the Clip1 crushed it. In “Castleman” by Floatie, I was able to hear all of the guitar tracks clearly and separately, with very little distortion. Vocals stood apart from the mix but weren’t too pronounced, and the low end was present but not overwhelming. Similarly, with electronic music, the Clip1 continued to impress. I listened to Todd Terje’s “Delorean Dynamite,” and the driving arpeggiated synths sounded perfectly gritty, with shakers and other reverberated percussion came across as atmospheric but well-accounted for.
If this all sounds like I’m gushing, well, I kind of am. The Clip1 exceeded my expectations in the sound department, and it’s clear that Soundpeats made the effort on a hardware level to deliver. Inside the Clip1, there are 12mm drivers, which are backed up by dual magnets. The use of two magnets, according to Soundpeats, is meant to decrease distortion and deliver a more precise, uniform sound, since the two magnets equate to less variability in the way the wireless earbuds’ diaphragm moves. The results are clear—literally. These are some of the best-sounding open wireless earbuds I’ve used to date, and I’ve used quite a few now from Sony, Nothing, and Bose.
On top of sounding great, I also find them to be equally as listenable in louder volume scenarios as Bose’s Ultra Open Earbuds, if not a little more so. Because of the design of open wireless earbuds, no pair will ever be ideal in high-volume situations where you’d want a more traditional pair of wireless earbuds with tips and active noise cancelation (ANC). There’s a middle ground to be struck where you can still hear your audio well while also being able to hear your surroundings, though. In my humble opinion, Soundpeats strikes that balance well.
On the crucial subway test, I was able to hear my post-work Buffalo Bills sports talk podcast while still keeping one foot in the environmental sound. That’s more than I could say for other entrants in the open-ear audio game, which have a bad habit of being drowned out in loud environments.
Which clip gets the comfort crown
Outside of being able to hear your surroundings more, another reason why people buy open-style wireless earbuds is that they’re just a lot more comfortable than using something that gets put inside your ear, even if it’s only a little bit.
While both the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds and Soundpeats’ Clip1 have a similar design (a clip that you wrap around your ear), there are subtle differences between the two you should know. As I mentioned, Bose’s Ultra Open Earbuds have a plastic knob that goes inside your ear, while the speaker, a round little drum, actually gets tucked behind your ear. The indirect approach to delivering audio somehow produces solid, well-balanced sound.
Similarly, the Clip1 also tucks around your ear like a clip, but instead of tucking the speaker behind your ear like Bose, the speaker rests in your outer ear in the Clip1, while the battery and magnets actually located behind. I’ve already covered how that design seems to deliver sound, and as satisfied as I am with that end, I’m equally as satisfied with the comfort. The Clip1, like Bose’s Ultra Open Earbuds are great to wear over long periods and feel sturdy and comfortable while wrapped around my ears. If you’re the type of person who hates the feeling of shoving silicone tips into your ears like you would with wireless earbuds that have ANC, the Clip1 will feel like a massive relief. The Clip1 might even have a slight edge over Bose, since Soundpeats manages to get the weight of each of its earbuds down to 5g as opposed to Bose’s Ultra Open Earbuds, which weigh 6.3g per earbud.
Like Bose’s Ultra Open Earbuds, the Clip1 also allows for a good amount of ambient noise bleed, which, in this case, is exactly what’s supposed to happen. While wearing the Clip1, I was still able to hear colleagues and respond to people in my office, while they were unable to hear what I was listening to; in this case, that happened to be a podcast at about 75% volume. While I didn’t test the Clip1 on a bike, I would be more than comfortable wearing these open wireless earbuds in a situation where I needed to hear my surroundings. I
f you’re in need of hands-free controls, the Clip1 also have touch inputs which allow you to double and triple-tap the piece that rests behind your ear on either earbuds to play and pause, and skip tracks respectively. It’s a little awkward at first, tapping behind your ear like that, but once you get the hang of it, they work just fine.
As long as we’re talking about design, it’s worth mentioning one area that I actually don’t think the Clip1 takes the crown over Bose in, and that’s looks. There’s nothing particularly offensive about the Clip1 design, but it’s not my cup of tea if Bose is the comparison. The Clip1 is a little bit lower profile compared to the Ultra Open Earbuds, which is nice, but I actually appreciate the almost cyberpunk look, even if they’re more noticeable when they’re clipped onto your ears. Similarly, the charging case of the Clip1 is fine but very cheap-feeling, thanks to the shiny, smooth plastic as opposed to Bose’s almost matte plastic.
That’s a minor gripe, all things considered, and even more forgivable when you keep in mind that the Clip1 is $70 compared to Bose’s current $300 price tag on the Ultra Open Earbuds.
Battery life and features
Open wireless earbuds may not have the benefit of canceling noise like other wireless earbuds, but that lack of ANC is actually a blessing in some ways, mostly when it comes to battery life. According to Soundpeats, the Clip1 should get 8 hours on a single charge when being played at 60% volume. That battery life tracks in my testing; after more than two hours of listening, I was at about 80%, though I wasn’t listening to audio the entire time (I took some short breaks intermittently).
I wouldn’t call 8 hours impressive by wireless earbuds standards, but it does notably beat the Bose Ultra Open, which get about 7.5 hours on a single charge. For context, some wireless earbuds that I’ve tested this year, like the Technics EAH-AZ100, get 10 hours on a single charge with ANC activated. Again, though, those wireless earbuds are also $300 compared to the Clip1’s $70 price tag, so maybe that comparison is a little unfair. For me, I have no major complaints in the battery life department when it comes to the Clip1; I think they’ll last long enough to satisfy most people.
As for features, there are quite a few things to take advantage of in the Soundpeats app, including the ability to toggle on Dolby audio for “movie mode” and “music mode,” which are meant to provide “immersive 3D sound.” I tested both, and while I could do without movie mode (sorry, I know it’s supposed to give in-movie audio a sense of space, but I think it just makes everything sound worse), music mode actually sounds pretty good. I don’t need music mode toggled on to enjoy how the Clip1 sound, but I do think using it provides a heightened sense of space and atmosphere in most songs.
There are also additional EQ options in the Soundpeats app, including preset EQ for genres like rock and electronic, and even one for enhancing treble, and also a granular 10-band EQ if you’re that kind of person. There is an option to custom-tune the EQ with a hearing test so that the wireless earbuds conform to your specific hearing, but when I tried to take the test, I noticed that lots of the tones being played for me were hard to hear. Picking them up is a lot harder when you’re wearing a pair of open earbuds, where ambient noise is a factor. For that reason, I’m going to go ahead and assume that while you can take the hearing test for personalized EQ on the Clip1, you should make sure you’re in a very silent location when you do so.
As an added bonus, the SoundPeats app also has free, playable white noise for when you just want to zone out (think rain sounds and airplane noises) as well as something called “EQ space” where people can share their custom EQs for things that they like to listen to. Let’s be honest, most people are never going to take advantage of that sort of thing, but having the option is always nice.
As I mentioned previously, there are a lot of open-style wireless earbuds on the market nowadays, so making a decision can be tough. Ultimately, though, the equation is simple. Most people, when it comes to open audio, just want something that sounds good, is audible in a range of settings, and is comfortable and practical in terms of battery life and features.
For the Clip1, all of those boxes are checked, and while the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds still have the edge in terms of design, that only matters if you really care about that sort of thing. For most, the $70 price tag and great fit and sound should be enough to give Soundpeats a shot at being their go-to open-ear wireless buds.
Justified or not, Apple’s AirPods have become the default choice for most iPhone owners in the market for new wireless earbuds. If you’re shopping for an Android phone, however, the top picks aren’t so obvious. That’s where we can help: We’ve tested dozens of wireless earbuds over the years, so we’ve broken down our top recommendations for Android users below. Whether you want powerful noise cancellation, a pair that’ll survive in the gym or just something that works particularly well with a Galaxy or Pixel phone, here are our favorite AirPods alternatives for Android.
Table of contents
Best Android earbuds for 2025
Photo by Billy Steele / Engadget
Active noise cancellation: Yes | Wireless charging: Yes | Water resistance: IPX4 | Multipoint connectivity: Yes (2 devices) | Wear detection: Yes | Max battery life (rated): 12 hrs, 24 hrs w/ case | Codecs: SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3 | Warranty: 1 year
The Sony WF-1000XM5 hit on just about everything we want from a premium set of Bluetooth earbuds. Their small, rounded design should feel comfortable and secure in most ears. They’re nearly unmatched at muting outside noise, thanks to a powerful ANC feature and memory foam eartips that do a remarkable job of isolating sound passively. They sound great out of the box, especially if you like a warmer profile with elevated bass, but you can easily customize the EQ curve through Sony’s app, and they do well to draw out treble-range detail either way. They’re also loaded with extra features, including multipoint connectivity, Google Fast Pair, LDAC and spatial audio support, the ability to swap between ANC and ambient sound (or “transparency”) modes automatically and more. The wireless charging case is conveniently tiny, while the eight- to 12-hour battery life gives little to complain about.
Still, the XM5s still aren’t a total slam dunk. The built-in mics aren’t the clearest for phone calls. The IPX4 water-resistance rating could be higher. Some people might find the memory foam eartips a little too full-feeling. They also have a list price of $330, which is far from affordable. But no other wireless earbuds we’ve tested have managed to tick so many boxes.
If you don’t have hundreds to spend, our favorite wireless earbuds in the budget bracket are the Anker Soundcore Space A40. Frequently priced between $45 and $60, this pair has the kind of features we’d expect from earbuds that cost twice as much: genuinely powerful ANC, multipoint connectivity, wireless charging, a solid eight to ten hours of battery life, LDAC support, decent (if not great) IPX4 water resistance and a usable ambient sound mode. They don’t have the most resolving or detail-rich sound of the box, unsurprisingly, but their warm profile offers pleasant, thumpy bass without totally blowing out the low-end. If you want to add more treble presence, you can customize the EQ through a clean and easy-to-read companion app. The actual earpieces are small, round and comfortable as well.
The main trade-off is call quality, as the built-in mic can lose your voice in noisy environments and doesn’t handle sibilant sounds very well. There’s no wear detection either, so your music won’t auto-pause when you remove an earbud. They also don’t support Google’s Fast Pair tech, though the earbuds should remember your device and automatically reconnect after you pair them for the first time. But for the price point, it’s hard to complain.
Pros
Excellent ANC for the price
Warm, pleasant sound
Comfortable and compact
Good battery life
Cons
No automatic wear detection
Mediocre call quality
Doesn’t sound as detailed as higher-end options (as expected)
Determining which set of headphones has the “best” sound quality is a fool’s errand — at the end of the day, it’ll always come down to personal taste. But if we had to pick one pair we’ve particularly enjoyed for music, it’d be the Noble FoKus Rex5. Its unique five-driver design helps it draw out a remarkable level of detail and properly separate the instrumentation in any given track. It’s a balanced sound profile, with tight but not overindulgent bass, a natural-sounding midrange and relaxed highs that don’t fatigue over time. The soundstage is wider than most true wireless earbuds we’ve tested, while support for LDAC and aptX Adaptive only assist with detail retrieval. You can set a personal EQ if you need it, but we’ve found the stock tuning to suit any genre well by default.
The FoKus Rex5 supports ANC and multipoint connectivity, while its IEM-style, metal-and-acrylic housing fits comfortably in the ear. But you’d buy it for the sound quality first and foremost: Noise cancellation isn’t on Sony’s level, the ultra-green finish isn’t for everyone, the five- to seven-hour battery life isn’t ideal and there’s no auto-pausing when you remove an earbud. Most prohibitively, these things are damn expensive at $449. If you want something a little less pricey, the Technics AZ100 and Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 are compelling (if bassier) options as well. But for self-proclaimed audiophiles with cash to burn, the FoKus Rex5 are a treat.
Pros
Detailed, immersive sound
Comfortable fit
Custom audio profiles that save directly to the buds
Active noise cancellation: Yes | Wireless charging: No | Water resistance: IPX4 | Multipoint connectivity: No | Wear detection: Yes | Max battery life (rated): 6 hrs, 24 hrs w/ case | Codecs: SBC, AAC | Warranty: 1 year
Read our full
Most of our picks above will work just fine in the gym, but if you’re buying a pair for workouts first and foremost, try the . Yes, we’re recommending a set of Apple-made earbuds in an Android buying guide. But while this pair works best with iPhones, most of their AirPods-style features are also available on Android through the . You can pair them with one tap through a pop-up card, view a map with their last known location, swap between ANC and ambient sound modes from the home screen, remap controls and check their battery level from the notification tray. There’s no hi-res codec support, but in general the drop-off from iOS to Android isn’t as great here as it is with a pair of AirPods.
The main reason we recommend the Powerbeats Fit is their lightweight design, which is equipped with bendy silicone fins that keep the earbuds secure in place while you’re moving around. It’s extremely similar to the previous , though the fins on this new iteration are a bit softer and more flexible, which makes them a little comfier. They also come with an extra small set of tips in the box. Their IPX4 water-resistance rating isn’t the best, but it should be enough for all but the sweatiest gymgoers. (Just don’t use them in the pool.) We also like that the Powerbeats Fit uses physical buttons to adjust volume or skip tracks, since touch controls can feel finicky when you’re trying to keep up with a workout. Their punchy sound is well-suited to the gym too, with a noticeable but not overwhelming push in the bass and treble. It’s not one for purists, but it’s energetic.
If you aren’t specifically looking for workout earbuds, you can still do better. The Powerbeats Fit still lack wireless charging and multipoint connectivity, and there’s no way to customize the EQ if you don’t like the default sound. Their built-in mics aren’t anything special for phone calls, and the six-hour battery life is just passable. Plus, while the ANC mode is useful enough for tamping down the noise of a gym, it’s a clear step down from the best options on the market. If you can find the older Beats Fit Pro at a significantly lower price, those may still be a better value, since the changes here are fairly minimal — though the new model does come with a smaller charging case alongside the redesigned wingtips.
We’ll also note the , another recent Beats model which has an around-the-ear hook design that some might prefer, a more advanced Apple H2 chip (the Powerbeats Fit uses the older H1) and a modicum of heart rate tracking. That one is priced $50 higher, though.
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 are explicitly designed to work in harmony with other Pixel devices, so they’re worth considering if you’re a dedicated fan of Google’s phones. They come with a host of useful bonus features, from remote ringing and a “conversation detection” mode to a customizable EQ and automatic switching between devices paired to your Google account. (You also get hands-free access to Google’s Gemini AI bot, though we wouldn’t call that essential.) You can still access most of the Pixel Buds’ perks on other Android devices by downloading a separate app, but all of the functionality is baked into Pixel phones natively. This means you can manage the earbuds, check battery status and the like right from your device’s settings menus. It’s similar to how Apple integrates AirPods with iOS.
The earbuds themselves are perfectly competent beyond that, with a tiny yet comfortable design, decent ANC for the price, eight-ish hours of battery life, adequate call quality and an enjoyable sound with punchy bass and extended treble. That said, you’ll still get richer audio quality and more robust noise cancellation from our Sony and Noble picks above, so those who aren’t all-in on Google hardware can feel free to look elsewhere. More recently, Google released the more affordable — at $129, but it misses out on a bunch of features included with the Pixel Buds Pro 2, including wireless charging, longer battery life, onboard volume controls, support and more.
Along those lines, the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are to Galaxy phones what the Pixel Buds Pro 2 are to Pixel phones. Using them with a Samsung handset unlocks a few ecosystem-specific perks, including the hi-res Samsung Seamless codec, a real-time translation tool and a “Game Mode” that reduces latency. That’s on top of features like spatial audio, a graphic EQ, a lost device finder, adaptive ANC, simplified voice commands and automatic switching between Samsung devices.
This kind of walled garden approach is frustrating; remember when you could plug your headphones into any device and it’d work the same way every time? But, as with the Pixel Buds and AirPods, the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are undeniably convenient if you’ve already bought into their chosen platform.
The rest of the package gets more right than wrong, though there are some issues worth calling out. The stem-style design pretty much rips off the AirPods Pro — this is particularly evident with the white finish — but adds weird, unnecessary LED strips down the stems. It’s comfortable, but Samsung isn’t beating the copycat allegations here. The ANC isn’t on par with the Sony XM5s either, and the six-hour battery life is shorter than many other premium pairs. There’s also no hi-res codec support with non-Samsung phones. On the plus side, the ambient sound mode works well. And most importantly, these things sound excellent out of the box, with full, meaty bass complemented by amply detailed highs and upper-mids.
It’s worth noting that Samsung froze shipments of the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro right around launch due to quality control concerns (mainly regarding the stock eartips), but those look to have been resolved, and we haven’t seen anything out of the ordinary with our review unit.
What to look for in wireless earbuds for Android devices
Photo by Jeff Dunn / Engadget
For the most part, the features you want from a set of “Android earbuds” are the same as what you want from any headphones. Great sound quality, a comfortable fit and sufficient battery life are still the foundations. Adequate water resistance is good for workouts, and nobody wants a crummy mic for making calls. Once you approach the $100 range, features like active noise cancellation (ANC), wireless charging, an ambient sound mode (which lets you better hear outside noise without turning off your music) and multipoint connectivity (the ability to pair with multiple devices simultaneously) should be expected.
For Android devices specifically, there are a few extras to consider. A dedicated app that makes it easy to switch sound modes, customize the audio profile, locate your earbuds if they ever get misplaced or adjust other settings is strongly preferred. Features like Google Fast Pair or NFC-based pairing, which can help you avoid having to dig through your Bluetooth menu to connect your earbuds for the first time, are also nice perks. Some Android devices can also utilize higher-quality Bluetooth codecs such as aptX Adaptive or Sony’s LDAC — these aren’t nearly as important to audio quality as the actual architecture of your earbuds, but they can help wring out a little more detail if the buds are capable enough and you’re streaming lossless files. AptX Adaptive can also help reduce latency, which is good for streaming video or gaming.
Diversity is Android’s greatest strength, but it also means that some wireless earbuds play nicer with certain devices, typically those made by the same company. Recent Samsung earbuds, for instance, come with a few perks that are only available if you use a Galaxy phone. We have a couple of recommendations related to this idea above.
How we test Android earbuds
Photo by Billy Steele/Engadget
The best way to test earphones is simply to wear them as much as possible, so that’s what we do. We typically do this over a one- to two-week period, though embargo times occasionally force us to finish our review process a bit faster. We listen to a test playlist that includes several musical genres and podcasts, paying close attention to how each pair approaches the bass, mid and treble frequencies to get an accurate sense of its sound profile. We also test at high and low volumes to check for consistency in the tuning. We do not have access to a dummy head to take more objective measurements, but we’ll sometimes look to sites like Rtings, SoundGuys and others that do just to ensure our impressions are not wildly off-base. If a model supports custom EQ, we’ll tinker with that and use the available EQ presets to see if one sounds dramatically better than the others — though in general we base most of our impressions on the stock tuning each pair uses by default.
To assess microphone quality, we record our own audio samples and take multiple calls with a partner both indoors and outside. For battery life, we play our test playlist on a loop with the volume around 75 percent and measure how long it takes for each set to drain. Where applicable, we do a thorough review of a pair’s companion app and test each available feature. While comfort is ultimately subjective, we take note of how secure each pair feels while we’re on the move. We also use certain pairs in especially crowded public spaces to get a better sense of their passive and active noise cancellation, as well as their ability to maintain a consistent Bluetooth connection.
Recent updates
November 2025: The lightly updated Beats Powerbeats Fit replace the older Beats Fit Pro as our top pick for working out. We’ve also noted the new Google Pixel Buds 2a as a cheaper alternative to the Pixel Buds Pro 2, which remain our recommendation for Pixel phone users.
August 2025: We’ve taken another sweep to ensure our advice is still up-to-date.
May 2025: We’ve checked this guide to ensure our top picks still stand and noted a couple alternatives to the Noble Fokus Rex5, since that pair has had stock issues of late. We’re also keeping an eye on how the Trump administration’s tariff policy affects the pricing and stock of our recommendations (and the consumer tech industry as a whole). All of our picks are still available in their normal price ranges today, but we’ll update this guide if that changes.
February 2025: The Noble FoKus Rex5 is our new “best for sound quality” pick, replacing the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4. Our other recommendations remain unchanged.
December 2024: We’ve lightly edited this guide for clarity and ensured that our current picks are still accurate.
The good news is, these sound way better than the previous generation of Pixel Buds Pro, with upgraded drivers and better processing. They have a wide soundstage, particularly for wireless earbuds, that our reviewer Parker Hall says provides an “energetic and joyous listening experience” and handles a variety of genres with grace.
Google made some big improvements to the active noise canceling as well, boosting it to levels that almost match Bose and Sony, the current top tier of ANC. It’s great at filtering out barking dogs and neighbor noises; only high-frequency sounds manage to evade silencing. They have a great transparency mode as well, with a richer sound reproduction than we’re used to seeing on compact earbuds. You’ll get about eight hours of listening with ANC on, and closer to 12 with it off, which beats the Apple AirPods Pro.
While a lot of companies claim to use laser measurements and careful planning on their ergonomics, they often fall short of excellent comfort, but not Google. The Pixel Buds Pro 2 are extremely comfortable, particularly for small ears, and have no trouble staying put, thanks to their rounded, flat shape. With an IP54 dust and moisture rating, they’re just as well suited for yoga as they are getting caught in the rain.
They work particularly well with Android phones, which enable a variety of convenience features like easy pairing and multiple connections. All you have to do is open the case near an Android phone and it will ask if you want to pair. The Pixel Buds app provides some extra features as well, but isn’t necessary, particularly since the Gemini AI features are pretty underwhelming.
While these are great for Pixel and other Android owners, there are better options if you have an iPhone, so make sure to swing by our guide and check out our favorite wireless earbuds for other options.
Samsung’s Galaxy Buds 4 Pro wireless earbuds haven’t been announced yet, but evidence of their arrival is starting to pile up. Last week, it was an icon spotted inside a leaked build of One UI 8.5 by Android Central, which sparked speculation that Samsung could be headed toward a potential redesign, and now, there are even more drips about some potential battery life improvements.
According to a report from GalaxyClub, the Galaxy Buds 4 (and presumably the Buds 4 Pro) will get a battery bump with a case that comes with a 530mAh battery as opposed to the Galaxy Buds 3, which have a rated case battery capacity of 500mAh. That’s not a massive leak by any means, but there is one more detail that emerged via Android Central that could give a better indication of what direction the Galaxy Buds 4 and 4 Pro are headed. Codenames spotted inside One UI 8.5 show references to “Handel” and “Bach,” who are both classical composers and likely refer to the Galaxy Buds 4 and 4 Pro.
That’s notably a departure from the codenames of previous wireless earbuds, which included “Berry” and “Jelly.” Does that mean there’s going to be a heavy audio focus that leans towards hi-fi? Maybe. Are we reading too much into an unofficial codename? Also possible. In either case, when the Galaxy Buds 4 and 4 Pro do eventually arrive on the scene (potentially next year, along with the Galaxy S26), they’ll have some tough competition in Apple’s AirPods Pro 3.
AirPods are always tough competition in the wireless earbud market—for Samsung and everyone else—but it’s going to be even tougher when comparing the two head-to-head. The reason? Apple managed to push the boundaries of what we even thought wireless earbuds could do. Its main method of doing that has been health features that include a way to monitor your heart rate while you listen to music. It’s a small step towards making AirPods part health wearable, but I sincerely doubt that Apple is done adding health features, meaning its abilities as a fitness wearable could expand even further in the next generation.
What does that mean for Samsung? Depending on whether Apple’s health tracking appeals to you, it could mean that the Galaxy Buds 4 and 4 Pro are behind, and Samsung wouldn’t be alone in its lack of health sensors, either. It’ll be worth watching if Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 push the rest of the wireless earbud market toward health tracking in an effort to maintain feature parity. That’ll likely depend on whether people actually use health tracking features, but also whether makers of wireless earbuds even have the resources and infrastructure to make health tracking work. If there’s one company that could make it work, it’s Samsung, but we’ll have to wait until next year to find out, most likely.
Looking to score almost 50 percent off on a pair of high-end true wireless earbuds? Amazon currently has the Black Graphite Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 (7/10, WIRED Recommends) marked down to just $180, a full $170 off their list price, with lesser discounts on the regular black and white varieties.
Courtesy of Sennheiser
Sennheiser
Momentum True Wireless 4
If you’ve ever used a pair of Sennheiser headphones before, you know they have a consistently excellent sound quality, and the True Wireless 4 are no exception. They’re incredibly detailed, particularly for earbuds, regardless of your favorite genre. Our reviewer Ryan Waniata “had a lovely time letting the buds loose across [his] whole music library” and had high praise for the excellent dynamics and precision. If you’re an audio nerd who wants every note to stand out and shine, these are a great pick, particularly without the high price barrier.
The noise-canceling isn’t perfect, but it does a great job of tuning out traffic and other busy city noises, if you want to sit out in a park and just enjoy some music without being bothered. They compared well to the Sony WF-1000XM5 (7/10, WIRED Review), and did a great job of tuning out airplane noise, in case you don’t want to lug your over-ears on a quick trip.
In addition to the excellent audio quality and active noise-canceling, they have all the trimmings you’d expect from a modern pair of wireless earbuds. There’s a smartphone app that will let you adjust codec settings, or tweak a five-band EQ to fit your preferred listening style. They have multipoint pairing as well, in case you need to switch between your phone and laptop regularly. We were able to get between seven and eight hours of runtime with the ANC turned on, so they should last you through most of the day, and the case brings the total to around 30 hours.
While the textured case and classy earbuds have a unique, eye-catching design, they’re both a bit on the large side. If you have small ears, or only carry a small bag, these might not be the best pick, but our guide to the best wireless earbuds would be a good place to start. Otherwise, audio enthusiasts should at least consider the excellent sound the Sennheiser True Wireless 4 can provide.
Speaking of critical listening, the XC1 work with Sony’s hi-res capable LDAC Bluetooth codec, should you happen to own a compatible Android phone (sorry, iPhone users). Using LDAC can reveal more detail, especially when listening to a source of lossless audio, but for these earbuds, I don’t think the juice is worth the squeeze. Using LDAC disables your EQ settings and Bluetooth Multipoint, and the XC1 struggle to maintain a steady Bluetooth connection when LDAC is set to its highest-quality setting.
Baseus also includes two Dolby Audio modes (Music and Cinema), which are meant to create a more immersive, spatial experience. For me, it’s the opposite. I find they wash out the sound, with Cinema being downright muddy. At 60 percent volume, there was more than enough power for an engaging listening experience indoors. Outside, I needed a bit more oomph.
Beyond Music
Photograph: Simon Cohen
Calling on the Inspire XC1 is good. Whether indoors or outdoors, your callers will find it easy to understand you, and almost all background sounds are kept at bay. However, as with most clip-style open-ear earbuds, your voice won’t be crystal clear—some distortion does manage to creep in, particularly when outside.
Baseus rates battery life on the XC1 at eight hours per charge, with 40 hours of total use when you include the case’s battery, numbers that are only eclipsed by the OpenDots One’s 10/40 combo. Baseus assumes 50 percent volume and does not include the use of either Dolby Audio or LDAC. LDAC can be very power hungry, often reducing battery life by up to 30 percent, which is one more reason to avoid it.
Open-ear earbuds aren’t for everyone, but with great sound quality, a comfortable, clip-style design, and easy-to-use controls, the Baseus Inspire XC1 are an excellent choice. They check a lot of boxes for a price that’s considerably less than their nearest competitors, including strong water and dust resistance, optional LDAC mode, and Bluetooth Multipoint. The only thing that’s missing is support for Auracast. Sadly, that feature has yet to see widespread adoption. If you’re after an affordable pair of open buds that compete with the best, these are among the best we’ve tried.
The Amiron 300 have a classic Beyerdynamic sound profile, which is delightfully rich and smooth, with a mostly neutral base that has good definition at the far ends of the spectrum. Reviewer Parker Hall was particularly impressed with the vocal quality, which he called “clear and dynamic” and didn’t get “overwhelmed by such a well-defined low end.” These are particularly good for jazz and vocal-heavy acoustic music, but anyone with good ears will be impressed with the performance.
They also come with five sizes of ear tips, so most people shouldn have no trouble finding some that are a good fit, which also helps provide excellent sound isolation. That helps make up for the fact that the active noise canceling isn’t quite as sharp as it is on earbuds from the likes of Sony or Bose. They do have excellent pass-through audio, though, which could trick you into thinking there isn’t any noise canceling on at all.
There’s a mobile app that’s non-intrusive and useful, letting you change the functions of the buttons on the outside. As someone who constantly skips tracks by accident when pulling my hood up, I can appreciate the ability to tweak these settings. There are a variety of other options too, including an EQ to adjust, and a low latency mode if you want to use them to catch up on your favorite shows while riding the bus to work.
Overall, these make for a nice upgrade from more budget-friendly true wireless earbuds, particularly for those with discerning ears and a penchant for vocal music or podcasts. Their understated design and great compatibility help round out an otherwise appealing package, and the lower price helps seal the deal. If you’re still not sold, make sure to check out our full roundup of true wireless earbuds for all of our top picks.
Big-name brands like Apple, Sony, and Bose tend to dominate the headlines when it comes to wireless earbuds, but that doesn’t mean you need to spend a ton to get something good. It’s more than possible to find a pair with clean sound, strong noise cancellation and a rich set of features for less than $100. That said, there’s still plenty of junk in the bargain bin, so you need to be careful.
If you’re looking to make an audio upgrade on the cheap, we’ve read countless reviews, compared specs and tested a few dozen models ourselves to find the best budget wireless earbuds you can buy. This is a busy market with new options releasing all the time, but you can find our current favorites below.
Three years into its life, we still haven’t found a better value among wireless earbuds than the Anker Soundcore Space A40. Typically available between $45 and $60, it offers the kind of performance and features we’d expect from earbuds priced twice as high. Its little round earpieces are light and evenly balanced, so they shouldn’t be a pain for most to wear for hours at a time. The default sound profile is good enough: It’s warm, with a bump in the upper-bass and a dip in the treble that can dull some finer details, but pleasant on the whole. It doesn’t completely blow out the low-end the way many cheaper headphones do. You can also customize the sound with EQ tools in the Soundcore app. Using those won’t make the Space A40 sound as nice as the best wireless earbuds on the market, but they can add a touch more deep bass or high-frequency emphasis. The app in general is easy to use, and it saves any changes you make directly to the earphones.
The Space A40’s best feature is its active noise cancellation (ANC), which is outstanding for the money. It won’t totally block out higher-pitched sounds, but it’s plenty effective at muting the rumbles of a train or jet engine. By default, Anker uses an adaptive ANC system that automatically tweaks the intensity based on your surroundings, though you can manually set it to strong, moderate or weak levels, too. That’s great for those with sensitive ears. There’s also a transparency mode, which isn’t nearly as good as what you’d find on a high-end pair like the AirPods Pro but works in a pinch.
Most of the little touches you’d want from a modern set of headphones are here as well. The Space A40 can connect to two devices simultaneously, and you can use one earbud on its own. Battery life is solid at roughly eight hours, while the included charging case can supply another 40 or so hours. It also supports wireless charging. The IPX4 water resistance rating isn’t anything special but lets the earphones survive light rain and everyday sweat. The touch control scheme can feel somewhat busy, as it lets you assign up to six different shortcuts to different taps and long presses and effectively forces you to omit a function or two, but it works reliably. We’ve had no real connection issues, either.
The only major shortcomings are the mic quality and the lack of auto-pausing when you remove an earbud. The former doesn’t handle sibilant sounds very well and can lose your voice in particularly noisy areas, so this isn’t the best option for phone calls, but it’s usable.
Pros
Excellent ANC for the money
Pleasant, warm sound
Multi-device connectivity and wireless charging support
Comfortable fit
Good battery life
Cons
No automatic wear detection
Call quality is mediocre
Audio performance isn’t as detailed as higher-end options (as expected)
The Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC is a commendable option if you prefer a larger “stem” design akin to Apple’s AirPods. In many ways, these earphones are just the Space A40 in a different shape. Like our top pick, they deliver an impressive adaptive ANC system, a relatively secure fit, wireless charging, an intuitive app, IPX4-rated water resistance and the ability to connect with two devices at once. Battery life is about the same as well, but we were usually able to get a half-hour or so more out of the Liberty 4 NC.
By default, this pair has an exciting sound with big, thumpy bass and a noticeable spike in the treble. It’s a good example of the “fun” EQ curve we often see from mainstream headphones nowadays, one that lends a nice sense of clarity to vocals and higher-range instrumentation. It fits especially well with EDM and pop music. That said, it’s intense, so some might find it fatiguing. The Space A40 doesn’t exactly sound neutral, but it comes off as easygoing by comparison, so it should be more agreeable for most. You can still personalize the Liberty 4 NC’s sound profile through a variety of EQ settings in the Soundcore app, but it’s hard to fully rein in the bass even with those.
Beyond that, you can manually adjust the strength of this pair’s ANC on a five-step scale, which is a little more granular than the Space A40’s three-step system. The touch controls are slightly more extensive, as you can triple-tap each earbud to change volume or access other commands. It also supports wear detection, plus its integrated mics are a bit better at resisting wind noise. However, it’s sluggish to auto-pause whenever you remove an earbud, and call quality is still mediocre in general. The included transparency mode is still merely serviceable too. And at $100, it’s right on the edge of our “budget” limit.
Along those lines: Anker has a couple newer models in the Liberty 4 Pro and Liberty 5, but those cost more than the $100 threshold we’ve set for this guide.
Pros
Strong ANC for the money
Multi-device connectivity and wireless charging support
Bluetooth: v5.2 | ANC: No | Transparency mode: No | Custom EQ: Yes | Charging port: USB-C | Wireless charging: Yes | Water resistance: IPX7 | Multipoint connectivity: No | Wear detection: No | Battery life (rated): 7 hrs, 30 hrs w/ case | Fast charging (rated): 10 mins = 2 hrs | Codecs: SBC, AAC | Warranty: 18 months
If you don’t want to spend more than $50 on a set of true wireless earbuds, consider the Earfun Free 2S. Similar to the Liberty 4 NC, this pair has a big bass response and a smaller bump in the treble. It misses details in the mids and can feel exhausting to listen to over extended periods, but it’s a richer take on this kind of sound signature than most pairs in the price range. You can adjust the sound through EarFun’s app as well, though there are fewer EQ presets to choose from than with the Space A40.
The earpieces themselves are well-shaped and not oversized. Combined with their soft silicone ear tips, they should be comfortable for most to wear over long periods of time. An IPX7 rating means they’re fully waterproof, too. There’s a suite of reliable touch controls and battery life sits at around seven hours of playtime. The included case adds another 30-ish hours and supports wireless charging, too. It’s not the smallest case we’ve used, but it’s not so large that it can’t fit in a pocket, either.
That said, you start to run into more “you get what you pay for” situations once you drop into this price range. In addition to not sounding quite as sharp as our pricier picks, the Free 2S lacks active noise cancellation, multi-device connectivity, auto-pausing and a transparency mode. And though their mic quality is decent in most cases, it’s pretty susceptible to wind noise.
Pros
Very affordable
Comfortable and compact fit
IPX7 waterproof rating
Lively, customizable sound
Cons
No ANC or ambient sound modes
No wear detection or multi-device connectivity, either
Sound quality is still less balanced than our top picks
Bluetooth: v5.3 | ANC: No | Transparency mode: Yes | Custom EQ: Yes | Charging port: USB-C (integrated) | Wireless charging: No | Water resistance: IP55 | Multipoint connectivity: No | Wear detection: No | Battery life (rated): 9 hrs, 35+ hrs w/ case | Fast charging (rated): 10 mins = 1 hr | Codecs: SBC | Warranty: 2 years
Any of our picks above will be perfectly fine for working out. But if you want a set of cheap earphones specifically for the gym, the JLab Go Sport+ are a worthy buy at $30. Their around-the-ear hook design stays secure in place whether you’re jogging, lifting or doing burpees. The hooks themselves are soft and flexible, so they shouldn’t be a pain to wear regardless of your ear size. The design is IP55 water-resistant, which isn’t the absolute best but is still enough to endure sweaty, non-swimming workouts. (Just note that the rating doesn’t apply to the charging case.) Battery life is solid at eight to nine hours per charge — or roughly 35 hours with the case — and the touch controls are consistently responsive, which isn’t a given at this price. There’s also a surprisingly usable transparency mode if you need to better hear your surroundings in a pinch.
The Go Sport+ works with JLab’s simplistic but intuitive smartphone app, which lets you assign touch controls, check battery status and customize the EQ curve. If you don’t want to tinker, there are three preset EQ modes built in. Unfortunately, none of those make the Go Sport+ sound especially dynamic. The default “JLab Signature” profile is a little too light on bass and edgy in the treble compared to the Space A40. A “balanced” preset sounds even more compressed, while the “bass boost” profile doesn’t amplify the low-end to a meaningful degree. The default profile is still clean enoughto get you through a ride on the exercise bike without being distracting, and it generally puts each part of a track in the right place. Nobody buys $30 earbuds for the audio quality — but the price is this low for a reason, so set your expectations accordingly.
Along those lines, don’t expect a ton of bonus features: There’s no ANC, wireless charging, auto-pausing or multi-device connectivity. The case has a very short USB-C cable hardwired in, which is sort of convenient but demands extra care — if that cord breaks, you’ll need a whole new case. The case could stand to be a bit smaller, too, and the mic struggles in windy environments. Still, for $30, there’s plenty to like about the Go Sport+ as a cheap beater set used strictly for workouts.
Pros
Secure, gym-friendly design
Highly affordable
IP55-rated water resistance
Solid battery life and ambient sound mode
Cons
Sound quality isn’t great
Affixed charging cable is very short
No wear detection, multi-device connectivity or wireless charging
Bluetooth: v5.2 | ANC: No | Transparency mode: No | Custom EQ: Yes | Charging port: USB-C | Wireless charging: No | Water resistance: IPX2 | Multipoint connectivity: Yes (2 devices) | Wear detection: Yes | Battery life (rated): 5 hrs, 6 hrs w/ wake word off, 20 hrs w/ case | Fast charging: 15 mins = 2 hrs | Codecs: SBC, AAC, aptX | Warranty: 1 year
All of our picks so far are technically earphones, meaning they extend into your ear canal. For some people, that is inherently uncomfortable. Unfortunately, the market for decent yet affordable “earbuds,” which rest on the concha instead of going all the way in your ear, is spotty. If you can’t bring yourself to pay for a pair of AirPods, though, the Amazon Echo Buds are a decent compromise at $50.
The plastic earpieces here aren’t exactly premium, but they rest lightly in the ear and feel sturdily put together. They let in and leak noise more easily than in-ear headphones, but if you prefer open earbuds, that’s more of a feature than a bug. If the fit doesn’t feel right, you can shed a little bulk by removing the pre-installed silicone covers. (Like most open earbuds, though, comfort here is dependent on your ear shape.) Mic quality is more than adequate, and the circular touch panels give ample room for using the controls, which are customizable and consistently responsive. Battery life sits aroundfive hours, which is middling but not out of character for cheap wireless earbuds.The pocket-friendly case adds about three full charges, but it’s worth noting that Amazon doesn’t include a USB-C charging cable. A poor IPX2 water resistance rating means you should avoid the gym with these, too.
While the Echo Buds sound fine out of the box, I’d use the EQ sliders in the Alexa app to bring down the treble a click or two. By default, the highs are a bit too edgy. That said, this emphasis lends a nice crispness to things like vocals, cymbals and strings, and there’s enough separation to keep complex tracks from sounding totally muddled. The profile here isn’t as full-bodied as the latest AirPods, and no open earbuds deliver true sub-bass, but there’s at least some rumble for hip-hop and EDM.
Unlike many cheap wireless earbuds, the Echo Buds support auto-pausing and multi-device connectivity. I often had to manually pause playback on one device before I could switch to the other, but having the feature at all at this price is great. Unsurprisingly, they also come with Alexa baked in, which you can access hands-free. You manage the Echo Buds through the Alexa app, which is much more cluttered than a dedicated audio app but includes extras like a lost device tracker and sidetone control for phone calls. And if you want nothing to do with Alexa, it also lets you turn off the mics and wake-word support.
Pros
Actually decent unsealed earbuds that cost less than $50
Lightweight
Pocket-friendly case
Automatic wear detection
Multi-device connectivity
Hands-free (and optional) Alexa
Cons
Open design means you’ll hear external noise all the time
Note: This is a selection of noteworthy earbuds we’ve put through their paces, not a comprehensive list of everything we’ve ever tried.
Skullcandy Method 360 ANC
The Skullcandy Method 360 ANC is often available for $100, and at that price it’s worth considering over our picks above. These earphones have an extremely V-shaped sound signature with thunderous bass and noticeably clearer highs than the Soundcore Space A40, along with decent ANC and a bulky yet comfortable design that takes after Bose’s old QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds. They technically have a list price of $130, however, which puts them over the $100 limit we have for picks in this guide. Their enormous case and lack of wireless charging don’t help either. You can read our review for a full breakdown.
Beats Solo Buds
The $80 Beats Solo Buds are comfortable and long-lasting, with an impressive 18 hours of battery life. But they sound a bit flat and are severely lacking in features. There’s no ANC, wear detection or official water-resistance rating, and the included case can’t wirelessly charge the earbuds on its own. You can read our full review for more details.
JLab Go Pop ANC
The $30 JLab Go Pop ANC is worth a look if you just want a competent pair of wireless earphones for as little money as possible. It’s the cheapest set we’ve tested with active noise cancellation and transparency mode, though neither feature is all that effective. Like the Go Sport+, it also relies on a short USB-C cable tethered to its case to charge. But it actually sounds OK for the price: not particularly wide or detailed, but not harsh either, with decent energy and bass punch. The tiny earpieces fit snugly and isolate a good chunk of background noise passively. They’re also IP55-rated, while the case is similarly compact. There’s no auto-pausing, but you can connect to two devices at once, the touch controls work well and JLab’s app makes it easy to adjust settings. Battery life is alright at six to seven hours, too, though this is another one that’ll get wrecked by the wind if you take a call outside.
The JLab Go Pop+ is another option here. It gives up the ANC, IP55 rating and multipoint connectivity, but it costs $5 less and has longer battery life.
EarFun Air Pro 4
We liked what we heard from the EarFun Air Pro 4 for about a day or so — then one earbud broke, apparently deciding that it would only play at an extremely low volume from that point on. We’ve seen a few users report the same issue, while others have noted problems with cracklingsounds coming out of single earpieces. This pair hasreceivedheaps of praise from other outlets, and we generally liked its predecessor, so it may well work for you. But we can’t recommend something that died before we could finish testing it.
The Beats Solo Buds.
(Photo by Billy Steele / Engadget)
EarFun Free Pro 3
The EarFun Free Pro 3 are totally solid, but the Space A40 gets you superior ANC, longer battery life and a more comfortable design for a lower price these days.
EarFun Air 2
Along those lines, the EarFun Air 2 are a good alternative to EarFun’s Free 2S if you’re partial an AirPods-style stem design, but they cost $10 more and aren’t significantly better.
Baseus Bowie MA10
The Baseus Bowie MA10 are saddled with a ginormous charging case, a sloppy app and bulky earpieces that we found uncomfortable to wear over time.
Baseus Eli Sport 1
The Baseus Eli Sport 1 have a fully open design that wraps around the ear and rests outside of your ear canal entirely. That’s nice for staying alert to the outside world, but it’s less so for getting the most detail out of your music. This is another pair with an oversized case, too.
OnePlus Buds 3
The OnePlus Buds 3 have an excited sound and a stylish design in the same vein as the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC, and their mic is a bit clearer for phone calls. They fall short of Anker’s pair when it comes to noise cancellation and battery life, however.
Skullcandy Dime 3
The Skullcandy Dime 3 deliver a surprisingly neutral sound profile for their dirt-cheap price, so they’re worth considering over the JLab Go Pop ANC if you see them in the $25 range. Like that pair, they can also connect to two devices simultaneously. But their overall battery life is a bit shorter, their call quality is poor and their physical controls are both unintuitive and uncomfortable, since they lead you to push the buds deeper into your ear canals.
Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds
The Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds are another ultra-budget option with a sick name, bro, but they sound harsher in the treble than the JLab Go Pop ANC and offer worse battery life through their charging case. This pair does use tap-based controls, but they can be finicky, and they still aren’t the most straightforward things to operate.
Best cheap wireless earbuds: FAQs
The JLab Go Pop ANC (left) and EarFun Air Pro 4.
(Jeff Dunn for Engadget)
What are the biggest differences between cheaper earbuds and more premium models?
A higher price does not guarantee higher quality. We’d take a pair like the Anker Soundcore Space A40 over many alternatives priced well over $100. Broadly speaking, though, the pricier components used by the best wireless earbuds let them put out a more detailed and versatile sound, more powerful active noise cancellation and a more complete list of features like multipoint connectivity, faster pairing, wear detection or wireless charging. They generally feel less flimsy in the hand, and their companion software tends to be less buggy. Battery life may be longer as well. But you have to look at these things on a case-by-case basis: Some earbuds justify their cost, others very much do not.
Can you improve the sound of cheap wireless earbuds?
Evaluating audio quality is always subjective to some extent — what I find “bloated,” you may consider “fun” or “lively.” In general, if a set of earbuds is tuned poorly or built with cheap materials, you can’t magically fix that. However, most new pairs allow you to adjust their EQ curve through software, so you can sculpt the frequency ranges in a way that better suits your tastes, at least somewhat. Also, remember that fit is king: If your in-ear headphones aren’t sealed tight enough, they’ll inevitably sound less detailed, with weaker bass response and worse isolation from outside noise. Consider trying different ear tips in that case.
Can cheap earbuds sound as good as AirPods?
A few can, sure! I’d take the top-end AirPods Pro 3 over any of the top picks in this guide, but they are far from unassailable. Meanwhile, the AirPods 4‘s unsealed design prevents them from pumping out truly deep bass, and I find them to sound a bit veiled in the treble. (They’re still a level above the open-back Amazon Echo Buds, though.) The big appeal with AirPods is how tightly they integrate with other Apple devices: You open them with an iPhone and they just work. No other earbuds can replicate that, cheap or otherwise, because Apple uses proprietary tech that prevents competitors from offering the same features. Again, price and advertising budget has little to do with how good a set of earbuds is. (This is a silly question, but we know some casual buyers will inevitably ask it.)
Recent updates
October 2025: We’ve made a few light edits to ensure our recommendations are still up-to-date.
June 2025: We’ve ensured our picks are still accurate and added testing notes on Skullcandy’s Method 360 ANC.
April 2025: The JLab Go Sport+ replaces the older JLab Go Air Sport as our “best for workouts” pick. We’ve also added testing notes on the EarFun Air Pro 4 and JLab Go Pop ANC, removing our blurbs for their predecessors along the way.
December 2024: We’ve lightly edited this guide for clarity and moved the aging JLab Go Air Pop and EarFun Air Pro 3 from honorable mentions to our “others we tested” section.
September 2024: We’ve added notes on a handful of other budget wireless earbuds that we’ve tested but fall short of our top picks, which remain unchanged.
June 2024: We’ve checked this guide to ensure that all of our picks are still in stock. Accordingly, we’ve removed the Nothing Ear Stick as an honorable mention, as it no longer appears to be available — though it remains a decent option if you do see it and want an unsealed alternative to the Amazon Echo Buds. We’re also still in the process of testing several other sub-$100 Bluetooth earbuds for a future update.
Those on a tight budget and those who prefer open-ear AirPods will want to check out the latest discount on the AirPods 4. Apple’s entry-level wireless earbuds are down to $89 even now after October Prime Day has come and gone. That’s 30 percent off their normal rate and the lowest we’ve seen them.
When Apple updated its standard AirPods in 2024, it released two models: one with active noise cancellation (ANC) and one without. We consider the non-ANC models to be the best budget AirPods you can get, so they’re an even better buy at this sale price. The ANC versions are also discounted at the moment, so you can pick them up for $119 instead of the usual $180.
Apple
Save 30 percent on Apple’s open-ear wireless earbuds.
The AirPods’ H2 chip brings a bunch of Pro-adjacent features to the standard model. That list includes Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, Transparency, Personalized Spatial Audio and wireless charging. For calls, it supports Voice Isolation, which helps filter out background noise and make it easier for you to be heard. And if that call is via FaceTime, it supports Apple’s 48kHz “cinema-quality” audio.
Sound is improved over the AirPods 3. “There’s more low-end tone than the previous model right out of the gate, and the punchier treble opens the sound stage so it’s wider and more immersive,” Engadget’s Billy Steele wrote. “The improved frequency response is on full display with Dolby Atmos content (movies, music, and TV), but the AirPods 4 are also more sonically adept with non-spatial tunes and video.”
You can expect around five hours of battery life on a single charge. With the ANC model, that estimate drops to around four hours with the marquee feature activated. With either version, you can drop them in the charging case to extend their total time to around 30 hours. And hey, it’s good to give your ears a rest now and then anyway.
While most gamers opt for over-ear headsets, there are actually quite a few advantages to using earbuds instead. For starters, they’re much more portable, which is particularly important if you play on your phone or a gaming handheld. My favorite Switch 2 carrying case has a convenient storage pocket inside that these slip right into, so I don’t have to go hunting for them in the overhead compartment once I’m already buckled in for a long flight.
They also have great compatibility, with the discounted versions supporting either Xbox or PlayStation, and both styles playing well with Switch, PC, and smartphones without any additional software or drivers. The compact USB-C dongle fits right into the case, and has a horizontal layout that lets it sit cleanly on top of consoles or phones, providing low-latency 2.4GHz audio, as well as BLuetooth for just listening to tunes. Battery life is right up there with other wireless earbuds, managing around 10 hours in just the buds, and pushing 40 total with the charging case.
I also really appreciate the SteelSeries mobile app. In addition to the normal settings you’d expect for active noise-canceling, there’s a huge library of equalizer settings for popular games. You’d be surprised at how much of a difference these make, letting you switch between ideal setups for different games without having to set up any profiles or remember frequencies.
They’re really comfortable too, so much so that they’ve become my go-to earbuds for walking the dog or working out. They have a great fit and sound isolation, and even though it’s personal preference, but the use of actual buttons instead of capacitive touch for controls makes bumping pause less likely.
If gaming earbuds don’t sound like your speed, make sure to check out our roundup of other great gaming headsets. You might be surprised by how well modern earbuds can work for both gaming and regular life though, so don’t be afraid to give these a shot, particularly at the discounted price.
October Prime Day is on the horizon, so it’s time to start thinking about what you may want to snag at a discount during the sale tomorrow. If you pay the $139 annual fee for Prime, sale events like these are a great time to stock up on essentials and cross things off your wishlist while you can save some money.
Most discounts will be exclusively available to Prime subscribers, but there are always a few that anyone shopping on Amazon can grab. Similarly, there are always early deals in the days and weeks leading up to Prime Day, and this year is no different. Here, we’ve collected the best Prime Day deals you can shop for right now and we’ll keep updating this post as we get close to Prime Day proper.
October Prime Day deals: Engadget’s top picks
Apple
Apple AirPods 4 (no ANC) for $90 (30 percent off): Apple’s entry-level wireless earbuds are the best AirPods for folks on a budget. They have an open-ear design that some will prefer over eartips that stick into your ears full, plus they have much improved audio quality and the H2 chip that enables features like Voice Isolation, Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking and Adaptive EQ.
Apple MacBook Air (13-inch, M4) for $799 (20 percent off): Our top pick for the best laptop for most people, the latest MacBook Air is impressively thin and light without skimping on performance. The M4 chipset is powerful enough to handle everyday tasks without breaking a sweat, plus some gaming and labor-intensive work. It has a comfortable keyboard, luxe-feeling trackpad and an excellent battery life.
Leebein 2025 electric spin scrubber for $40 (43 percent off, Prime exclusive): This is an updated version of my beloved Leebein electric scrubber, which has made cleaning my shower easier than ever before. It comes with seven brush heads so you can use it to clean all kinds of surfaces, and its adjustable arm length makes it easier to clean hard-to-reach spots. It’s IPX7 waterproof and recharges via USB-C.
Jisulife Life7 handheld fan for $25 (14 percent off, Prime exclusive): This handy little fan is a must-have if you life in a warm climate or have a tropical vacation planned anytime soon. It can be used as a table or handheld fan and even be worn around the neck so you don’t have to hold it at all. Its 5,000 mAh battery allows it to last hours on a single charge, and the small display in the middle of the fan’s blades show its remaining battery level.
Amazon Smart Plug for $13 ($12 off): We named this the best smart plug for Alexa users because it hooks up painlessly and stays connected reliably. Use it to control lamps or your holiday lights using programs and schedules in the Alexa app, or just your voice by talking to your Echo Dot or other Alexa-enabled listener.
Dyson V15 Detect Plus for $570 (33 percent off): Our top pick for the best cordless vacuum on the market right now, the V15 Detect has some of the strongest suction power you’ll find in a stick vacuum, plus a lightweight design and a dustbin that can hold more dirt and debris than it might seem. This model comes with five cleaning attachments, including the Fluffy Optic cleaner head that has LEDs to illuminate the floor as you’re vacuuming so you can better see where all the dust bunnies are.
October Prime Day deals on tech
Roku
Apple iPad Air (11-inch, M3) for $449 ($150 off): The only major difference between the latest iPad Air and the previous generation is the addition of the faster M3 chip. We awarded the new slab an 89 in our review, appreciating the fact that the M3 chip was about 16 percent faster in benchmark tests than the M2. This is the iPad to get if you want a reasonable amount of productivity out of an iPad that’s more affordable than the Pro models.
JLab Go Air Pop+ for $17.49 (42 percent off): These ultra-affordable wireless earbuds are 15 percent smaller and 40 percent lighter than the previous model, and they have a mobile app in which you can choose from three preset EQ modes to customize your sound. Total battery life with the case comes in at more than 35 hours, and they come with three different sizes of eartips so you can get the best fit.
Lego Star Wars Advent Calendar 2025 75418 for $31 (30 percent off): ‘Tis the season for advent calendars. They’ve flooded the internet, as they usually do this time of year, and there are plenty to choose from (and stock up on) before we get to December. Lego has a bunch, and this Star Wars one will be fun for everyone, not just kids, to open up each day at the end of the year.
Blink Mini 2 security cameras (two-pack) for $35 (50 percent off): Blink makes some of our favorite security cameras, and the Mini 2 is a great option for indoor monitoring. It can be placed outside with the right weatherproof adapter, but since it needs to be plugged in, we like it for keeping an eye on your pets while you’re away and watching over entry ways from the inside.
JBL Go 4 portable speaker for $40 (20 percent off): The Go 4 is a handy little Bluetooth speaker that you can take anywhere you go thanks to its small, IP67-rated design and built-in carrying loop. It’ll get seven hours of playtime on a single charge, and you can pair two together for stereo sound.
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max for $40 (33 percent off): Amazon’s most powerful streaming dongle supports 4K HDR content, Dolby Vision and Atmos and Wi-Fi 6E. It also has double the storage of cheaper Fire TV sticks.
Levoit Core 200S smart air purifier for $70 ($20 off, Prime exclusive): This compact air purifier cleans the air in rooms up to 140 square feet and uses a 3-in-1 filter that removes microscopic dust, pollen and airborne particles. It has a mobile app that you can use to set runtime schedules, and it works with Alexa and Google Assistant voice commands.
iRobot Roomba 104 Vac for $150 (40 percent off): This entry-level robot vacuum is an upgraded version of one of our favorite budget robot vacuums. iRobot makes robovacs that are easy to use, even for those who have never had a machine like this, and they do a good job of cleaning up all kinds of messes, including pet hair.
Levoit LVAC-300 cordless vacuum for $250 ($100 off, Prime exclusive): One of our favorite cordless vacuums, this Levoit machine has great handling, strong suction power for its price and a premium-feeling design. Its bin isn’t too small, it has HEPA filtration and its battery life should be more than enough for you to clean your whole home many times over before it needs a recharge.
Shark Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo for $300 (57 percent off, Prime exclusive): If you’re looking for an autonomous dirt-sucker that can also mop, this is a good option. It has a mopping pad and water reservoir built in, and it supports home mapping as well. Its self-emptying base can hold up to 60 days worth of debris, too.
Amazon Kindle Scribe for $300 (25 percent off): The latest Kindle Scribe is one of the best E Ink tablets you can get, particularly if you want a slab that can handle both note-taking and e-reading well. Its edge is providing users full access to the Kindle ebook store and the ability to take notes to accompany reading material. This model has 16GB of storage and includes the Premium Pen.
XReal One Pro AR glasses for $649 (16 percent off): The latest from XReal, these smart glasses can let you use almost any device, including your smartphone, with a large virtual display. Their 1080p Micro-OLED screens are bright and sharp, plus they’re pretty comfortable to wear.
Nintendo Switch 2 for $449: While not technically a discount, it’s worth mentioning that the Switch 2 and the Mario Kart Switch 2 bundle are both available at Amazon now, no invitation required. Amazon only listed the new console for the first time in July after being left out of the initial pre-order/availability window in April. Once it became available, Amazon customers looking to buy the Switch 2 had to sign up to receive an invitation to do so. Now, that extra step has been removed and anyone can purchase the Switch 2 on Amazon.
Your phone is usually attached to your hip (in terms of the recent iPhone 17’sCrossbody Strap, I mean that literally). But in the comfort of your own home when you’re trying to unwind and escape your phone with your favorite music, needing to stay in Bluetooth range for your headphones and wireless earbuds can be a little annoying. Qualcomm’s audio engineers are trying to solve that issue by seamlessly switching to Wi-Fi if you travel away from your audio source. Sure, that sounds neat, but the tech implies a future where you won’t even need any other device nearby to listen to your favorite tunes on your AirPods.
I can already hear the whining in the comments. The problem this feature hopes to fix is a very niche use case, but it’s one that could end up in many next-gen wireless earbuds in the near future. I tested out this feature at Snapdragon Summer in Hawaii (full disclosure: travel and lodging were paid by Qualcomm, and Gizmodo did not guarantee any coverage as a condition of accepting the trip), dubbed XPAN for “Expanded Personal Area Network,” with a pair of nonspecific reference wireless earbuds used by Qualcomm. With the feature enabled, the buds work with the phone to detect if the device is in Bluetooth range. If you start walking away, they will automatically switch over to Wi-Fi.
In many ways, the tech is far more interesting than the end result. The wireless earbuds contained a Wi-Fi antenna, though neither the case nor the buds looked much different from what I’ve used in the past. I walked 30 feet away from the phone and back, and I didn’t notice any interruptions in the song playing. The phone showed how it was swapping from a P2P (peer-to-peer) connection through various other connection types. A Bluetooth 5.3 connection range is technically close to 33 feet. While that means you won’t lose connection walking from one end of the room to the other, intervening walls or—in my case—a crowd of bodies could interrupt that signal. XPAN merely expands the range to encompass everywhere there’s a Wi-Fi signal.
Although wireless earbuds with the technology will be limited to local Wi-Fi, the technology could potentially allow you to listen to your device from “anywhere in the world” through a Wi-Fi access point. Dino Bekis, Qualcomm’s general manager of connectivity, told me in a Q&A that there’s no issue with latency on a Wi-Fi connection compared to Bluetooth. Modern wireless earbuds are already so damn good at cutting down on latency even when streaming high-bitrate lossless audio. Wi-Fi networks should be able to handle the 96kHz speeds necessary for lossless. It shouldn’t matter if you’re still using Wi-Fi 6 or the modern Wi-Fi 7 standard, either.
“Today, with XPAN, it’s 96kHz 24-bit, but we see that evolving to 192kHz to be truly lossless,” Bekis said.
Qualcomm has talked up Wi-Fi audio connections for the past two years with its previous-gen S7 and S7 Pro platforms. The first wireless earbuds with XPAN built in were the Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro released earlier this year. They support the 96kHz standard, though Bekis promised we should see more wireless earbuds soon enough with current or future S7 chips. Audiophiles would still extol the benefits of lossless and minimum latency. Regular folk who just want to listen to their tunes simply care that they need to be within close range of their paired music source. Still, the feature may end up being more useful for taking calls with your wireless earbuds than for listening to music.
Inevitably, it seems our wireless earbuds will become as connected as our phones are today. What that means for music listeners is a future where we connect to Spotify or Apple Music right from our wireless earbuds’ or headphones’ case, rather than needing to go through a phone. I don’t think we’ll need to wait long to see more wireless earbuds cases with screens used to control music. Hell, if you were longing for a device as dedicated to music as your old iPod, a Wi-Fi-enabled pair of wireless earbuds could fit the bill. You’ll still have to pay your tithe to your favorite music streaming app, of course.
I’ve been very impressed with Samsung’s third-gen wireless earbuds. The Galaxy Buds3 Pro ($190), which were released in 2024, were a solid AirPods Pro competitor for Android owners. Now, they’ve been joined by the Galaxy Buds3 FE, a new entry-level model that looks nearly identical to the Buds3 Pro but trades away a lot of bells and whistles for a more accessible price: $150.
The Pro’s high-tech LED “blade” lights are gone, as is head tracking, auto-pause, dual drivers, wireless charging, and full waterproofing. What matters more is what Samsung kept: a very comfortable fit, great sound quality, and surprisingly good ANC, transparency, and call quality. In short, the Galaxy Buds3 FE get the most important stuff right.
Like all Samsung Galaxy wireless earbuds, some of their more interesting features are exclusively available when using Samsung Galaxy phones (and don’t even think about buying them if you’re on an iPhone), which narrows their prospective market. But if you’re a true-blue Samsung fan on a budget, the Galaxy Buds3 FE are a great set of wireless buds.
Midrange Gems
Photograph: Simon Cohen
Though Samsung calls them Galaxy Buds3 FE—you’d naturally assume that means they replace 2023’s Galaxy Buds FE ($100)—they’re actually a kind of midrange option. Samsung is keeping the Buds FE around (and maintaining the price), which I think is a great idea. The original Buds FE are still excellent, and now you’ve got two different fit options: the older, button-style, and the newer AirPods imitation shape. As a bonus, if you opt for the Buds3 FE, you get better water and dust protection: IP54 versus IPX2.
Between the two FE models, I’ve got to give the comfort award to the Buds3 FE. With less mass in your ear and no silicone stability fin wrapped around the circumference, it’s a gentle, easy feel. If you’ve ever tried the Galaxy Buds3 Pro, Apple AirPods Pro, or similarly shaped, stem-based models, the Buds3 FE should feel instantly familiar. However, that also means they aren’t exactly rock-solid for high-impact activities like running. This is where the original Galaxy Buds FE still have an edge: Twist them into place and it’s unlikely they’ll budge unless you want them to.
Wear App via Simon Cohen
Samsung isn’t very generous with ear tip sizes. Beyond the preinstalled medium tips, you only get a small and a large size in the box—the new AirPods Pro, for example, give you four pairs. Make sure you use the fit test in the Samsung Wear app once you get the earbuds connected. I thought the medium tips felt OK, but the test prompted me to try the large, and it was right: They gave me a better fit and a tighter seal.
Speaking of what’s in (or not in) the box, Samsung, like Apple, no longer includes a charging cable. You probably have at least one USB-C cable already, but if you don’t, you’ll need one.
Moving to the stem-based design brings pinch and swipe gestures to the FE family. Samsung borrowed this system from Apple’s AirPods Pro, but the triangular shape of the Galaxy Buds’ stems can make these controls a little harder to use than Apple’s. You do get used to them, however, and overall, I think they’re an improvement on the first-gen Buds FE’s touch controls—especially using the up/down swipe gesture to control volume.
Samsung’s AirPods
Photograph: Simon Cohen
Sound quality on the Galaxy Buds3 FE is outstanding. It not only compares well to other earbuds at this price, it holds up to many more expensive models. The sound signature is robust, with excellent response across frequencies. The low end is resonant yet snappy, the mids and highs are clear and detailed, and the soundstage has a pleasing amount of width and depth.
Wireless charging has become one of the easiest ways to keep your gadgets powered without dealing with tangled cables or a worn-out charging port. Whether you’re topping up your phone, earbuds or smartwatch, a good wireless charger saves you the hassle of plugging in and can even deliver faster charging speeds with the right standard.
The best options in 2025 go beyond simple pads. You’ll find 3-in-1 wireless chargers that handle multiple devices at once, a magnetic wireless charger that snaps into place on your phone and even foldable or travel-friendly designs that work like portable chargers on the go. Many of the latest models are Qi2 certified, which means better efficiency and wider compatibility.
If you’re looking for something to keep by your nightstand or a full wireless charging station for your desk, there are plenty of choices with solid build quality and practical functionality. The right pick depends on how many devices you need to charge at once and where you’ll use it most.
It’s easy to find wireless power charging pucks that are fast or portable, but rarely both — and certainly not as well-considered as Belkin’s BoostCharge Pro Portable Wireless Charger Pad. Its extremely compact design not only offers 15W MagSafe charging (plus Qi charging when flat), but includes a kickstand that lets you watch videos while you power up. Add a long 6.6ft braided cable and this is an ideal charger whether you’re traveling or catching up on TV shows.
The emphasis on MagSafe-compatible may make the Belkin BoostCharge less appealing for Android devices, and a better option for Apple devices. However, this is designed specifically as a phone charger rather than an Apple Watch charger, or multi-device charger. Still, it’s a definite step up from Apple’s more affordable but simpler MagSafe Charger. And importantly, you have the choice of buying Belkin’s accessory with ($80) or without ($60) a power adapter.
If you just need the basics, Anker’s 313 Wireless Charger offers significant value from a well-known name. It tops out at 10W (7.5W for iPhones), doesn’t include a power adapter and relies on a microUSB cable instead of a USB-C cable, but it also costs only $20. Even if you have to buy an adapter, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better deal. This charger works well with various devices, including AirPods Pro.
There’s fierce competition in the wireless charging stand space, and it’s easy to get a good 15W charger if you’re willing to pay. Belkin, however, is one of the few that promises truly solid value. Its $45 BoostCharge 15W Wireless Charging Stand costs less than some alternatives while including a power adapter in the box. The lip at the bottom will keep your phone stable, and dual charging coils let you use the device while watching a video in landscape mode. You can also easily keep an eye on your phone’s battery level.
There’s no MagSafe or other device-specific charging optimizations on this one for your Apple devices. And like many wireless charging stands, this doesn’t officially support the iPhone 13 mini and similarly small handsets. But there’s otherwise little to complain about here — this is a no-nonsense power solution at a good price, and conveniently comes packaged with an included USB-C cable
There aren’t many great options for wireless chargers that use Samsung’s fast power delivery technology, particularly if you want a stand. Thankfully, Spigen’s charger is up to the job. It delivers 15W to all Samsung Galaxy phones that support Super Fast Wireless Charging, and it’s a well-made (if unspectacular) perch that prevents your device from sliding around. The universal form factor works with other smartphones too, though it doesn’t specify that it works with Apple devices.
You’ll want to shop carefully. Some versions don’t include a power adapter, and some stores sell for less than the official $80. If you can score a good deal, though, this is an ideal way to charge your Galaxy device while providing a clear view of the always-on display, allowing you to check your phone’s battery with a quick glance
Anker’s strong value in pad chargers also applies to stands. The 313 Wireless Charger tops out at 10W (5W for iPhones), doesn’t include a power brick and uses a microUSB cable rather than a USB-C cable, but it’s also $20. You can buy an adapter and still undercut the price of some equally competent alternatives. It can charge while your phone is in landscape orientation, too – an added bonus to this phone charger. You might want to look at competing products if they cost under $40 with an adapter included, but the 313 is otherwise difficult to top.
The UGreen Uno 2-in-1 wireless charger isn’t only one of the most compact and effective chargers I tested, it’s also probably the cutest. As is the case with most of the Uno lineup, which includes devices with precious little digital faces on screens that can indicate different charging statuses. With this model in particular, the digital facial expression changes when your phone or wireless earbuds go from actively charging to powered and in standby mode.
Another clever feature of this 2-in-1 station is the flat phone pad that flips up from the top edge and can be adjusted to position your smartphone accordingly while powering up. Underneath that is the pad for your earbuds, which is only as big as it needs to be to hold a pair of AirPods Pro 2, with or without a case. Although the cube-like station is chunky enough that I probably wouldn’t travel with it, there’s a good case to be made for tossing this into your backpack or carry-on when you’re going on a trip. The only major drawback here, as is the case for many 2-in-1 charging stations, is that it only comes with a USB-C cable — you’ll have to provide the right power adapter (we suggest 30W or higher) to plug it in. — Valentina Palladino, Deputy Editor
UGreen’s MagFlow Qi2 3-in-1 charger station offers a ton of value for $100. The company managed to build a trio charger that works well as a permanent fixture on your bedside table or desk, as well as a compact portable charging station. As the former, it takes up very little space when fully setup, and the magnetic phone charger can be tilt-adjusted up to 70 degrees so you can get the right viewing angle if you’re watching videos on your iPhone while charging. The Apple Watch charging pad is similarly adjustable, and the space that wirelessly powers up AirPods or other earbuds sits right in front of that.
Since this is a Qi2 charger, it can power up an iPhone 16 from zero to 40 percent in roughly 30 minutes, so you won’t have to wait long before you can grab your phone and get going. The magnets are strong and allow you to use the phone in either portrait or landscape mode while it’s powering up, and when you’re done, you can fold the entire charging station flat and easily toss it in a bag to take with you. UGreen includes a USB-C to C cable and a 30W adapter in the box, so you’re given everything the station needs to power up all your devices as quickly as possible.
The design is clever and feels premium without being too heavy, and I appreciate the soft-touch accents throughout. There are also four rubberized feet on the bottom so the device is less likely to move around or fall over when perched on a table. Overall, this 3-in-1 charger station essentially gives you a unit you can easily take with you as much as you want, using it at work, at home and everywhere in between. — V.P.
While it’s tempting to buy a wireless charging pad optimized for the specific phone you have now, resist that urge. Instead, think about the types of devices (phones included) that you could see yourself using in the near future. If you’re sure you’ll use iPhones for a long time, an Apple MagSafe-compatible magnetic wireless charger will be faster and more convenient. If you use Android phones or think you might switch sides, however, you’ll want a more universal design. If you have other accessories like wireless earbuds or a smartwatch that supports wireless charging, maybe you’d be better off with a 3-in-1 wireless charger or full wireless charging station.
Where and how will you use your charger?
Odds are that you have a specific use case in mind for your charger. You may want it by your bedside on your nightstand for a quick charge in the morning, or on your desk for at-a-glance notifications. You might even keep it in your bag for convenient travel charging instead of bulky portable chargers or power banks. Think about where you want to use this accessory and what you want to do with the device(s) it charges while it’s powering up. For example, a wireless charging pad might be better for bedside use if you just want to be able to drop your phone down at the end of a long day and know it’ll be powered up in the morning. However, a stand will be better if you have an iPhone and want to make use of the Standby feature during the nighttime hours.
For a desk wireless charger, a stand lets you more easily glance at phone notifications throughout the day. For traveling, undoubtedly, a puck-style charging pad is best since it will take up much less space in your bag than a stand would. Many power banks also include wireless charging pads built in, so one of those might make even more sense for those who are always on the go. Some foldable chargers are also designed for travel, collapsing flat to take up less space.
Wireless charging performance
Although wireless charging is usually slower than its wired equivalent, speed and wattage are still important considerations. A fast charger can supply enough power for a long night out in the time it takes to change outfits. Look for options that promise faster charging and support standards like Qi2 certified charging for the best balance of efficiency and compatibility.
In general, a 15W charger is more than quick enough for most situations, and you’ll need a MagSafe-compatible charger to extract that level of performance from an iPhone. With that said, even the slower 7.5W and 10W chargers are fast enough for an overnight power-up. If anything, you’ll want to worry more about support for cases. While many models can deliver power through a reasonably thick case (typically 3mm to 5mm), you’ll occasionally run into examples that only work with naked phones.
There are some proprietary chargers that smash the 15W barrier if you have the right phone. Apple’s latest MagSafe charging pad can provide up to 25W of wireless power to compatible iPhones when paired with a 30W or 35W adapter — the latter being another component you’ll have to get right to make sure the whole equation works as fast as it possibly can.
Quality and box contents
Pay attention to what’s included in the box. Some wireless chargers don’t include power adapters, and others may even ask you to reuse your phone’s USB-C charging cable. What may seem to be a bargain may prove expensive if you have to buy extras just to use it properly. As mentioned above, you’ll want to make sure all of the components needed to use the wireless charger can provide the level of power you need — you’re only as strong (or in this case, fast) as your weakest link.
Fit and finish is also worth considering. You’re likely going to use your wireless charger every day, so even small differences in build quality could make the difference between joy and frustration. If your charger doesn’t use MagSafe-compatible tech, textured surfaces like fabric or rubberized plastic are more likely to keep your phone in place. The base should be grippy or weighty enough that the charger won’t slide around. Also double check that the wireless charger you’re considering can support phones outfitted with cases — the specifications are usually listed in the charger’s description or specs.
You’ll also want to think about the minor conveniences. Status lights are useful for indicating correct phone placement, but an overly bright light can be distracting. Ideally, the light dims or shuts off after a certain period of time. And while we caution against lips and trays that limit compatibility, you may still want some barriers to prevent your device falling off its perch on the charging station.
Wireless chargers FAQs
Do wireless chargers work if you have a phone case?
Many wireless chargers do work if you leave the case on your phone. Generally, a case up to 3mm thick should be compatible with most wireless chargers. However, you should check the manufacturer’s guide to ensure a case is supported.
How do I know if my phone supports wireless charging?
Checking the phone’s specification should tell you if your phone is compatible with wireless charging. You might see words like “Qi wireless charging” or “wireless charging compatible.”
Do cords charge your phone faster?
Most often, wired charging will be faster than wireless charging. However, wired charging also depends on what the charging cable’s speed is and how much power it’s designed to carry. A quick-charging cable that can transmit up to 120W of power is going to be faster than a wireless charger.
From the start, Nothing was designed to be an antidote to Apple and its omnipresent AirPods. While Apple focused on a sort of all-purpose minimalism, Nothing adopted a hallmark transparent look that, if not altogether disparate (both pairs of wireless earbuds have a similar stem design), at least gave its Ear products a unique design language. That quest for being different extended into features, too. In 2023, Nothing introduced personalized EQ, giving it a visual and technological difference over Apple’s AirPods and eventually a ChatGPT integration, which was a first in the category.
But a lot happens in a few years, especially in a space as saturated as wireless earbuds, and while Nothing’s Ear are still a solid pair of earbuds, they feel… a little less of an earful. Apple now has its AirPods Pro 3 with high-tech features like real-time translation and heart rate monitoring, while non-Apple competitors in the same price range, like OnePlus and Google, aren’t pulling any punches with their own entrants into the space that offer personalized EQ, AI features, and noise-canceling that compete with pro-level gadgets.
Nothing Ear 3
The Nothing Ear 3 have solid sound, but flub the one thing that makes them unique.
Pros
Great sound
Solid ANC
They look very cool
Case feels premium
Cons
Super Mic is a super letdown
May not be worth the premium over last gen
But just in the nick of time, as Nothing’s flagship wireless earbuds seem to be falling behind, the company is back with its $180 Ear 3 that offer a new look and one truly unique feature for improving voice calls. As usual, Nothing is taking some chances, and not just in the visual department. For me, some of those risks are really paying off, but others… well, they’re not so super.
So much of Nothing is about looks. That’s not a knock on the company. This is technology that you wear, and because of that, appearance can be make-or-break. Chances are, if you’ve bought Nothing products in the past, you agree, which also means, if you saw Nothing teasing its Ear 3 wireless earbuds before its release, your eyebrows may have been raised.
I’m going to get straight to the point: the Ear 3 look great. I was worried at first that the Ear 3 may scale back on the transparent part of its wireless earbuds, but that’s not the case here at all. Sorry for the alarm bells, anyone who reads my blogs. Instead of a homogeneous black look on the outside of the stems, the Ear 3 goes with a metallic silver that really makes them look like a capital “G” Gadget. As Gizmodo’s Senior Editor, Consumer Tech, Raymond Wong, noted to me, this thing has big Talkboy vibes (shout out to Macaulay Culkin). There’s still a transparent shell that lets you see the internal components through the sides and back of the earbud stems.
The case also adopts the same metallic look, shedding the white version (there’s also still black) for an aluminum that both looks and feels genuinely different. The “Talk” button (more on that later) is also nice and shiny, inviting you to push it. This case now has some weight in your hand, and I really love that. No one wants to carry around heavy gadgets, but Nothing did a good job here of balancing the weight to make the case and buds feel premium without making it feel chunky.
The design language also feels more aligned across flagship audio products now, bringing together the Ear 3 and the Headphone 1, which have an aluminum finish. If you’re a fan of the Headphone 1, or prior Nothing buds, you’ll love the look of the Ear 3. Another thing you’ll love? The sound.
A much-needed audio upgrade
I thought the Ear were nice wireless earbuds when I first listened to them in 2024, but I’ve tested a lot of newer earbuds since then, and in that testing, my opinion has shifted. The Ear still hold it down, but the sound and ANC aren’t quite as premium as I’d like them to be, especially with a slight cost premium over brand new buds like the OnePlus Buds 4. In short, it was time for an upgrade.
According to Nothing, the Ear 3 now has a redesigned 12mm dynamic driver and “patterned diaphragm surface” that is meant to “lower total harmonic distortion from 0.6% to 0.2% versus the previous in-ear generation.” Nothing also says that the redesigned architecture increases bass response and delivers a wider soundstage. That’s all rhetoric, though, and at the end of the day, what you really want to know is, “Do these sound better than the last generation?” and in my anecdotal testing, they definitely do.
I tested the Ear 3 back to back with the Ear (which is actually newer than the Ear 2) and found that there was a lot less distortion when listening to C.W. Stoneking’s “Desert Isle”. There’s more spatiality in the Ear 3 than the Ear, making guitars and vocals sound like they’re in their own place instead of muddled together competing. Vocals in particular sound clear and natural, which is great if you’re like me and tend to listen to a lot of rock music. One vast improvement over the Ear is in the bass department. As I’ve said many times, I don’t particularly care about having a ton of bass in wireless earbuds, but I do appreciate a pair that can still provide low end without sounding over-compressed or super simulated. I’d say the Ear 3 do just that, especially after testing bassier music by listening to Daft Punk’s “Da Funk”.
As usual, I also dove into the Nothing X app and used Nothing’s personalized audio test to tune the Ear 3 to my specific hearing. I can’t overstate this enough: stop sleeping on your wireless earbuds’ companion app. There’s a big difference in the sound before using the personalized EQ and after, and while this won’t be the case with everyone, I’m 33 years old and a couple of decades of going to shows and listening to loud music means I could probably use a little assistance in the hearing department. The Ear 3 sound great out of the box, but personalized EQ really sends the audio over the top. In short, Nothing is still holding it down with its flagship-level sound, and the Ear 3 is an even bigger improvement generation-to-generation than its jump from Ear 2 to Ear.
Active noise cancellation (ANC), however, I found a little less improved generation-to-generation. Though to be fair, Nothing isn’t touting better noise canceling this time around. I gave the Ear 3 the obligatory subway test, and while they passed, they weren’t quite as formidable as my favorite noise-canceling wireless earbuds, Bose’s Quiet Comfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen). They’re still much better than the similarly priced Galaxy Buds 3 FE from Samsung that I recently tested. I do think they’re slightly more noise-canceling than the last generation, though that could be due to Nothing’s redesign of the buds, which are meant to provide a better and more comfortable fit in your ears—that could create better passive noise cancellation and the illusion of stronger ANC.
Battery life is also only slightly improved. Nothing says the Ear 3 will get 5.5 hours of listening with ANC on, while the Nothing Ear was rated for 5.2 hours. This is nowhere near the best battery of wireless earbuds in this class; in fact, it’s a little under. Six hours is generally the standard nowadays. In my testing, I went from 100% to 80% battery in a little over 1 hour of listening at 70% volume with ANC on high.
So, that’s the good, pretty good, and just okay news about the Ear 3. But there are some things I really don’t like, so let’s talk about them.
Super Mic? More like soupy mic.
There’s one aspect of the Ear 3 that can’t be compared, since Nothing is the only company really trying it. I’m talking about the “Super Mic,” a new exclusive feature in the Ear 3 that lets you use microphones in the case for clearer calling and voice recording. By pressing the “Talk” button on the case, you can activate the feature and get recording or calling—one push activates the feature until you release the button, while a double-tap will turn the feature on until you turn it off.
According to Nothing, there are two Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) mics inside the case that use beamforming to zero in on your voice and cancel out environmental noise at the same time. The Ear 3 also take advantage of bone-conducting capabilities that detect “microvibrations” in your jaw that are meant to detect speech. The process of relaying the results of your Super Mic voice is a bit convoluted. Nothing says your voice is “sent to the case antenna, relayed to the earbud antenna over Bluetooth, then passed to the phone.”
Per Nothing, Super Mic “focuses on your voice, cutting through surrounding noise (up to 95 dB) for clearer calls and voicenotes.” In theory, I love the idea. Wired earbuds are a big thing again, and a major part of that (outside the superior audio quality) is that they usually come with an on-cable mic for clearer calls. This theoretically makes the Ear 3 a best of both worlds situation, giving you wired earbud-level mics for calling (or better) while not having to deal with annoying wires.
The only problem is… the Super Mic doesn’t work as advertised. I ran the feature through a few different tests, and the results were varying degrees of muddy. At first, I played background music while using Super Mic to record my voice through my iPhone’s Voice Memo app. Instead of canceling out the background music (lo-fi beats playing at 75% volume from a Chromebook about a foot away from me), it mixed my voice and the beats together, creating a kind of muddled amalgam that wasn’t very pleasant to listen back to.
Similarly, I simulated subway noise (something more “environmental”) on YouTube at the same volume and distance, and the results were similar. My voice was still mixed in with the ambient sound that I hoped it would filter out. Super Mic did seem to work better out on the street near my office (a fairly busy part of downtown Manhattan), though I still wouldn’t describe the results as “super” in any way. Even when Super Mic effectively filters out environmental noise, I find the fidelity to be choppy and compressed-sounding at times. It’s nowhere near as pleasing to listen to as recording through the native mic on my iPhone 13.
Super Mic did filter out noise effectively while walking on the street next to ongoing construction and in a fast casual restaurant that was playing music, but it still picked up other people’s voices in settings where people were talking nearby, which would make using the feature in an environment with other people potentially problematic.
There’s also the issue of compatibility. Nothing says Super Mic is designed for voice calling in apps like Zoom, Teams, Google Meet, WhatsApp, WeChat, and is also supported in native voice memo apps on iOS and Android. However, Nothing makes it clear that the feature “isn’t optimized” for in-app voice messaging through third-party apps like Snapchat or native voice features in iOS Messages and the like. This is a long way of saying that your mileage may vary when it comes to Super Mic, and while compatibility can’t be blamed on Nothing—it’s up to Apple and Android to allow third-party mic access, and in what apps—it still limits the Super Mic feature, making its use a lot more restricted than it ought to be.
I reached out to Nothing about the issue I had with Super Mic, but haven’t yet determined if there’s an issue with the wireless earbuds or a problem with the feature. (Yes, I was using the right firmware and Nothing X build). Other reviewers have reported their own issues with Super Mic, too.
Good buds, but a little (ear)itating
When you make a big bet, you might lose a little money—no risk, no reward. No matter your rote idiom of choice, that sentiment tends to be true. Super Mic could be a cool feature if it’s refined, but for now, I would file it firmly in the “undwhelming” folder. Maybe it will improve with future software, but I can’t really guarantee that, so all I have to work with is what we have right now, which is to say a Super Mic that seems to be plagued by a serious case of Kryptonite.
The annoying part is that everything else about the Ear 3 is pretty solid. They look great, they sound great, and ANC is sturdy. The battery life leaves something to be desired, but it’s not so bad that it’s disqualifying. But this is what happens when you try to do something different sometimes, you gotta take the hits with the misses. Alright, I’m done with the corny euphemisms now, I swear.
The Ear 3 might falter out of the gate with a shoddy Super Mic feature, but if you like the way Nothing wireless earbuds look and you want solid sound and ANC, the Ear 3 are still worth a look. Just don’t expect to be taking any Zoom calls from a construction site with these things just yet.
We all have so many gadgets now that we use and take with us regularly, and there’s a good chance that at least a few of yours support wireless charging. Whether its your phone, wireless earbuds, smartwatch or all three of those things, you can power them up cord-free using a good wireless charger. And if you do plan to rely on wireless power-ups for your most-used devices, a multi-device wireless charger is a good investment. These accessories neatly charge up more than one device simultaneously, without using a bunch of cables that can mess up your space. We’ve tested a bunch of the latest multi-device wireless chargers; you’ll find out top picks below for the best wireless charging pads, plus some advice on how to choose the right one for your needs.
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Best wireless charging pads
UGREEN
UGreen’s MagFlow Qi2 3-in-1 charger station offers a ton of value for $100. The company managed to build a trio charger that works well as a permanent fixture on your bedside table or desk, as well as a compact portable charging station. As the former, it takes up very little space when fully setup, and the magnetic phone charger can be tilt-adjusted up to 70 degrees so you can get the right viewing angle if you’re watching videos on your iPhone while charging. The Apple Watch charging pad is similarly adjustable, and the space that wirelessly powers up AirPods or other earbuds sits right in front of that.
Since this is a Qi2 charger, it can power up an iPhone 16 from zero to 40 percent in roughly 30 minutes, so you won’t have to wait long before you can grab your phone and get going. The magnets are strong and allow you to use the phone in either portrait or landscape mode while it’s powering up, and when you’re done, you can fold the entire charging station flat and easily toss it in a bag to take with you. UGreen includes a USB-C to C cable and a 30W adapter in the box, so you’re given everything the station needs to power up all your devices as quickly as possible.
The design is clever and feels premium without being too heavy, and I appreciate the soft-touch accents throughout. There are also four rubberized feet on the bottom so the device is less likely to move around or fall over when perched on a table. Overall, this 3-in-1 charger station essentially gives you a unit you can easily take with you as much as you want, using it at work, at home and everywhere in between.
Anker’s Qi2 15W 3-in-1 charging station is quite similar to our top pick, but it’s slightly smaller overall and its MSRP is a bit more expensive. It also comes with a 40W adapter in the box in addition to its USB-C cable. Minor differences aside, either this or our top pick are excellent options for anyone who wants to streamline their charging setup with a station that’s just as convenient to park on a nightstand or throw in a carry-on ahead of a trip.
You can charge an iPhone at top speeds with Anker’s device, plus an Apple Watch and a pair of AirPods. The magnets are quite strong (there were a few instances where it too me some strength to remove my phone when it was done charging), and the whole thing folds down to roughly the size of a deck of cards when you’re all done with it. It’s listed at $110, but you can often find it on sale for less than $85 — that’s the best time to pick it up.
Satechi’s accessories always impress with build quality and performance, and this Qi2 Trio wireless charging pad is no exception. It’s a sleek aluminum pad with space for a phone, smartwatch and pair of earbuds, with the first two items having pop-up magnetic charging spaces that fold back down into the pad when not in use. The phone’s silicone charging puck has a soft-touch finish and can be adjusted to position your phone at the right angle for media consumption or viewing in Standby Mode.
Strong magnets keep your phone in place either in portrait or landscape mode, and you’ll get up to 15W of power delivery with newer iPhones. The whole thing measures 8.2 x 3.8 x 0.81 inches, so you will need a bit of horizontal space on your nightstand or desk to accommodate it, but it’s otherwise streamlined. I appreciate the fold design for the phone and watch chargers because it allows you to travel more easily with the charging pad, and since you get a USB-C cable, a 45W power brick and US, EU, and UK travel adapters included in the box, you’ll probably want to do so.
Pros
Premium build
Qi2 15W charging
Includes travel adapters along with USB-C cable and 45W adapter in the box
Cons
Takes up more horizontal space on a desk or nightstand
Belkin is known for make quality accessories, and the 3-in-1 UltraCharge Pro charging station really exemplifies this. It feels luxe with its chrome accents and soft-touch finish, and it’s nicely weighted so it won’t be easily pushed to the side on your desk or nightstand. It wirelessly powers up an iPhone, Apple Watch and pair of AirPods simultaneously, and it supports Qi2 25W technology, so the latest iPhone will recharge as quickly as possible. It even has a built-in fan (that runs supremely quiet) that you can switch on and off to use the active cooling technology while you’re powering up all your devices at once. And since it comes with a power cable and a 45W adapter, you don’t need to get anything extra to set it up properly.
This 2-in-1 UltraCharge station from Belkin ticks all the right boxes if you’re looking for duo charger. It supports Qi2 25W power technology, it’s MagSafe compatible, its design is slim yet sturdy and could even be used during travel and it comes with a cable and 45W adapter in the box. All of that for well under $100 makes it a great value if you have one of the latest iPhones, or an older model that supports MagSafe. You’ll be able to charge one of those iPhones and a pair of AirPods simultaneously, and when you have the juice you need, the charging station flips closed so you can toss it in your bag. And for folks with Apple Watch as well, there’s a 3-in-1 version you can pick up instead.
The UGreen Uno 2-in-1 wireless charger isn’t only one of the most compact and effective chargers I tested, it’s also probably the cutest. As is the case with most of the Uno lineup, which includes devices with precious little digital faces on screens that can indicate different charging statuses. With this model in particular, the digital facial expression changes when your phone or wireless earbuds go from actively charging to powered and in standby mode.
Another clever feature of this 2-in-1 station is the flat phone pad that flips up from the top edge and can be adjusted to position your smartphone accordingly while powering up. Underneath that is the pad for your earbuds, which is only as big as it needs to be to hold a pair of AirPods Pro 2, with or without a case. Although the cube-like station is chunky enough that I probably wouldn’t travel with it, there’s a good case to be made for tossing this into your backpack or carry-on when you’re going on a trip. The only major drawback here, as is the case for many 2-in-1 charging stations, is that it only comes with a USB-C cable — you’ll have to provide the right power adapter (we suggest 30W or higher) to plug it in.
This Satechi Duo wireless charger stand pulls double duty as a 10,000mAh power bank, making it a great option for frequent travelers. It looks similar to most charging bricks, but it has a flip-up stand that can be used to charge your phone and prop it up while doing so, either in portrait or landscape mode. Underneath that stand is a spot for a pair of wireless earbuds to sit and power up, and both charging sections can be used either while the station is plugged in or not. That means you can wirelessly charge on the go, or connect your phone, earbuds or other USB-C device via a USB-C cable to the power brick and juice up that way.
As is typical of Satechi devices, this power station is well designed with convenient touches like a rubberized strip where your phone sits on the stand so it doesn’t slide side to side, and small feet on the underside to prevent the charger from moving when it’s propped on a table or nightstand. While you do get a USB-C to C cable that you can use to connect devices to the brick and power the charger itself, you do not get an adapter in the box.
Pros
Wireless charger and 10K power bank in one
Can wirelessly charge when not connected to power (provided the power bank has juice)
Do wireless charging pads work with any phone or device?
The short answer is no, but the long and more detailed answer starts with it depends. Regular old wireless charging pucks should work with any device that’s compatible with the same wireless charging standard that the charger supports. Smartphones and other mobile devices that support wireless charging nowadays are likely to support the Qi standard, so double check that your phone or gadget fits that bill and it should work with any Qi wireless charging pad (all of our top picks fall into this category).
When it comes to multi-device chargers, things can get a little tricky. Rather than starting your search looking for the most universally adaptable accessory, consider the devices you have and aspire to own in the future. If you’re an iPhone user with an Apple Watch, you may want to look for a wireless charger that has a Watch pad built in. Ditto if you’re a Samsung phone owner and use a Galaxy Watch. Some earbuds support wireless charging, but you’ll only need an open pad or space on your multi-device charger where you can sit the earbuds in their case down for a power-up.
Those with iPhone 12s and newer Apple smartphones can take advantage of MagSafe chargers, which magnetically attach to their handsets. Android devices don’t support Apple’s proprietary MagSafe technology, but you can buy a magnetic adapter for pretty cheap that will allow your Samsung or Pixel phone to work with MagSafe multi-device chargers. You’ll also need that to get full Qi2 goodness with newer Android phones like the Galaxy S25 series, which are “Qi2 ready,” but since they do not have magnets built in, aren’t precisely Qi2 compliant.
How to pick the best wireless charging pad for your needs
Even without a charging cable to worry about, you’re probably buying a multi-device wireless charger with one location in mind. It might sit on your nightstand or on your desk. Not everyone buys a charger just for themselves, though; you might want to use one as a shared station for you and a partner.
If the charger will sit on your nightstand, you’ll likely want a compact, stable unit that won’t swallow all your free space or tumble to the floor (and if it does fall, one with enough durability to survive). Some may prefer a lay-flat design if your phone screen has a tendency to keep you awake at night. Others might use their phone as their alarm clock, in which case you may want a stand that keeps the screen within reach and eyeshot. This is also the preferred design if you use Standby Mode on iPhones.
A vertical orientation may be best for a charger that lives on your desk so you can more easily check notifications throughout the day. Will the charger sit on a low table? Horizontal charger pads may make it easier to grab your devices in a hurry. Travel chargers should fold up or otherwise protect the pads while they’re in your bag. And, yes, aesthetics count. You may want something pretty if it’s likely to sit in a posh room where guests will see it.
For vehicles, consider a wireless car charger if you frequently need to top off your device on the go. These chargers combine convenience with functionality, ensuring your phone stays powered while you’re navigating and taking calls at the same time. We also heavily recommend a magnetic charger so there’s less of a chance your phone will go flying into the passenger’s seat the next time you hit a pothole.
Wireless charging speed and performance
It’s no secret that wireless charging is slower than wired, and powering multiple devices adds a new wrinkle. As these chargers often have to support a wide range of hardware, you’ll have to forget about the fastest, device-specific options from brands like Google, OnePlus and Samsung.
Today, most wireless chargers come in at 15W for phones. The latest Qi2 standard can get you up to 25W of power with a compatible smartphone. These speeds are improving bit by bit, but they’re still not quite as fast as wired charging. It’s rare that you’ll find a truly slow-as-molasses example, mind you. Even some of the most affordable options we’ve seen will recharge your phone at a reasonable 7.5W or 10W, and the 5W for other devices like wireless earbuds is more than enough.
If you’re only docking overnight or while you work, speed won’t make a huge difference. Just be sure that whatever you buy is powerful enough for a phone in a case. Some chargers may also include an AC adapter in the box. If not, make sure you’re using one with the right power level to get the fastest charge.
Nothing has a new pair of earbuds for you: the Ear 3. These AirPods-style buds cost $179 and are available now, following the Nothing Phone (3) and Headphone (1) the company released this summer. While they share the stem design aesthetic of Apple’s popular earbuds, the blend of aluminum and plastic sure makes them look unique.
The key feature in the noise-canceling earbuds is called Super Mic. Except it’s not in the earbuds at all—there are two microphones in the charging case. It supposedly cuts background noise, and you can talk into it by pressing the Talk button on the case, like a walkie-talkie. A double-press keeps the mic on continuously. (Keep an eye out for free Nothing earbuds case product placement in influencer videos soon.)
The earbuds still feature a three-mic array, but utilizing the Super Mic in the case should enhance your voice. Naturally, you can also use it to record voice memos, which are saved in the company’s Essential Space app on its phones.
These flagship Ear 3 earbuds also feature improved noise canceling, enhanced audio quality, a stronger signal connection, and longer battery life—5.5 hours with noise canceling enabled and 10 hours with it turned off. We’ll be giving them a spin soon, so stay tuned for our review.
Amazon’s Fall Hardware Event Is Coming
Courtesy of Amazon
It’s that time of year again. Not Halloween season, but fall gadget season. Apple kicked things off earlier this month, Meta unveiled new smart glasses this week, and now Amazon will close the month with its own hardware event. The company sent out press invites this week for an event on September 30 in New York City.
The other intriguing addition is the photo of a Kindle with a color screen. Amazon just announced new Colorsoft Kindles earlier in July, and it’s a little too soon to see yet another Colorsoft. It’s most likely a color version of the Kindle Scribe, just in time to compete with ReMarkable’s new Paper Pro Move. We’ll be on the ground on September 30 to relay the details. —Nena Farrell
ExpressVPN Debuts a Free VPN
ExpressVPN recently changed its subscription tiers, and now it has something else cooking: EventVPN. It’s a free VPN service available on Apple devices, including iOS and macOS. What makes it different? There isn’t a paid plan. EventVPN runs exclusively off ads.
Ads and online privacy are basically oil and water, but EventVPN claims it has an ad model that will allow it to stay afloat without compromising user privacy. It’s also operating entirely on RAM-based servers, which means that, even if it wanted to log your data, it would disappear the moment it’s flushed from memory.
Whether you’re all-in on the Apple ecosystem or just want a reliable pair of wireless earbuds, the best AirPods can deliver great sound, seamless pairing and smart features that are hard to beat. Over the years, Apple has expanded its AirPods lineup to suit a variety of users — from the minimalist appeal of the standard models to the premium experience of the AirPods Pro and AirPods Max with plush ear cups and active noise cancellation.
With rumors of new AirPods on the horizon and the 2nd generation AirPods Pro still going strong, now’s a great time to figure out which model suits you best. Some offer snug silicone tips for better isolation, while others prioritize comfort and simplicity. All of them work effortlessly across your Apple devices, whether you’re switching from iPhone to iPad or taking a video call on your laptop.
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What you need to know about AirPods
When it comes to Apple’s earbuds and headphones, there are several things you’ll want to keep in mind before making your final decision. First, the standard AirPods are the open-design earbuds with no tip that allow some environmental noise to come into your ears at all times. The Apple AirPods Pro are the model with tips that completely close off your ear canal, which enables features like more powerful noise cancellation and the hearing test. Lastly, the Apple AirPods Max are the company’s over-ear noise-canceling headphones preferred by audiophiles, and currently the company’s only option for wireless headphones at all that aren’t made by Beats.
There are a few features that are available across all models as they’ve become inherent to the AirPods experience. First, you can expect connectivity perks like Automatic Switching between Apple devices that are synced with your iCloud account. This means that a pair of AirPods will automatically change to your phone when you get a call while you’re listening to music on a MacBook or laptop, for example. It’s functionally similar to multipoint Bluetooth, but the feature isn’t limited to two devices like most earbuds and headphones. Second, hands-free access to Siri is the default, allowing you to ask the assistant for help without touching your AirPods. And lastly, Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking is available across the entire lineup, even on the most affordable version and the new AirPods, including AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation.
Battery life: 8 hours, up to 24 hours with charging case | Water resistance: IP57 | Noise cancellation: Yes | Automatic Switching: Yes
Apple’s latest AirPods Pro offer the company’s most robust set of features ever. Live Translation and hear-rate sensing get top billing, but improvements to ANC and sound quality are significant as well. Plus, Apple’s existing hearing health and other advanced earbuds features are available here as well. And the company managed to do all of this without raising the price.
Battery life: 5 hours, up to 30 hours with charging case | Water resistance: IP54 | Noise cancellation: No | Automatic Switching: Yes
Apple gave its “regular” earbuds a big overhaul in 2024, most notably adding ANC to its open-wear design for the first time. Of course, the addition of noise cancellation raises the price, so the non-ANC version of the AirPods 4 is the most affordable option in Apple’s ecosystem. This model still packs Apple’s H2 audio chip though for enhanced audio performance, so you can expect several of the company’s most recent features onboard.
H2-powered tools on the AirPods 4 include Voice Isolation, Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, Personalized Volume and Adaptive EQ. They lack Conversation Awareness, Adaptive Audio and Transparency mode from the core specs on the AirPods 4 with ANC and AirPods Pro 2. Unlike those other two models, the AirPods 4 charging case doesn’t offer MagSafe or Qi-compatible wireless charging, nor does the accessory have a built-in speaker for Find My. However, they now feature USB-C charging, bringing them in line with Apple’s latest device lineup.
You’ll get all the benefits of a refined shape on the AirPods 4, which offers a more secure and comfortable fit. Like the third-gen AirPods, this model still doesn’t have touch controls for volume, but instead offers force touch options for playback controls, noise modes and taking calls. A key downside to the open design is that you won’t get access to Apple’s hearing health tools. Since the AirPods 4 don’t seal off your ear canal or have the requisite ANC, the company’s hearing test wouldn’t be accurate, hearing aid wouldn’t be helpful and hearing protection wouldn’t adequate defense in loud environments.
If you prefer over-ear noise-canceling headphones to earbuds, there’s only one option for you in Apple’s lineup. The AirPods Max debuted in 2020 and the company offered a minimal update in September 2024 that swapped the Lightning port for USB-C (and added five new colors). While the design still feels current, the tech inside this model has been a generation behind since the AirPods Pro 2 arrived in 2022. The AirPods Max are still powered by the H1 chip, which means Apple’s more advanced audio features aren’t available here.
Since the Max doesn’t have the newer H2 silicon, features like Adaptive Audio, Personalized Volume, Conversation Awareness and Voice Isolation aren’t available on these headphones. However, you can still expect hands-free access to Siri, Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, Adaptive EQ and a very natural-sounding Transparency mode. Noise cancellation works well with most sources of constant noise, but like a lot of headphones, it struggles with human voices. Automatic Switching is here as well, so you can expect the Max to swap between iCloud-connected devices quickly.
And then there’s the design. The AirPods Max feel lightweight and comfortable, even though the ear cups feel a bit thin after hours of constant use. Physical controls for playback, volume and noise modes center around a rotating crown akin to what’s on the Apple Watch and a single button – both situated on the right side. That excellent Transparency mode keeps you from getting shouty on calls, and the voice pickup is good enough for you to use them during important virtual meetings without fear of audio quality issues.
The AirPods 4 with ANC represent the first time active noise cancellation has been available on the open-wear, “regular” AirPods. Design-wise, they’re the same as the non-ANC model, so the difference is entirely in the features list. This more expensive version adds Adaptive Audio, Transparency mode, Conversation Awareness and a wireless charging case. The ANC isn’t as powerful as the AirPods Pro 2, partially due to the fact that the AirPods 4 doesn’t completely seal off your ears. The noise-canceling performance is definitely useful though, working best with constant, low-frequency annoyances like fans and white noise machines. Lastly, you won’t get access to Apple’s hearing test and hearing aid features, partially due to the fact that the AirPods 4 with ANC doesn’t seal off your ears, which would affect accuracy and effectiveness.
Almost three years after Apple introduced the original AirPods Pro 2 (updated with USB-C in 2023) with category-defining sound quality and active noise cancellation (ANC), I can safely say that just about every company making ANC wireless earbuds has caught up or surpassed them, and often with buds that are sold for less than $250. Basic wireless earbuds features—good audio, good ANC, and good battery life—are table stakes, and each of these is improved on AirPods Pro 3. Apple’s third-gen ANC wireless earbuds are an excellent gen-over-gen upgrade and an even bigger leap if you’re coming from first-gen AirPods Pro.
But what’s more interesting is seeing how Apple transforms the AirPods Pro 3 into a health and fitness-centric wearable and a vessel for AI features like Live Translation. To borrow a quote that’s often misattributed to Wayne Gretzky, AirPods Pro 3 “skate to where the puck is going, not where it has been.”
AirPods Pro 3
Apple’s third-gen ANC wireless earbuds improve all the basics and lay the foundation for going beyond audio with health and AI features.
Pros
Even better fit
Terrific sound
Improved ANC
Longer single-charge battery life
Simultaneous heart rate tracking and music
On-device Live Translation works
IP57 rating
Cons
Less total battery life with case
Heart rate tracking only works with Fitness app
Live Translation only supports five (six if you count UK English) languages at launch
I’ve never had complaints about the comfort and fit of AirPods Pro 2, so I was skeptical whether I’d feel any difference with AirPods Pro 3, which feature smaller buds with a more angled design, and foam-infused eartips. I’ve been using AirPods Pros almost daily since the originals came out in 2019, so I have a pretty good idea when the little white pieces of plastic that I stuff into my ears feel off—in a good way. AirPods Pro 3 sit deeper in my ears (your ears might be different), and the stems are just slightly farther away. I’ve been using the preinstalled medium-sized eartips on AirPods Pro 2 without issues, but just to see whether I’d get more noise passive noise cancellation from the new foam-infused eartips, I tried the small size tips, and lo and behold, they seemed to block out just a bit more environmental noise. So definitely try a size down if you’re feeling like ANC could be better. Apple also includes an XXS size eartip (for a total of five sizes) this time around. (There’s no USB-C cable in the box anymore, though, but who doesn’t have a dozen of them lying around?)
There are other subtle external changes, too. The inner vent is smaller; the outer vents are larger; and there’s one more covering the heart rate sensor next to the eartip. The buds are also rated IP57 sweat- and water-resistant, which means they can be immersed in up to 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes and can survive heavier rain and dusty conditions. AirPods Pro 2 are only IPX4-rated, which is good for only splashes, and light rain and sweat.
The charging case is largely the same, save for some small tweaks. Most people won’t notice this (I almost didn’t), but the case is a teensy bit larger in all directions. Apple told me that the redesigned geometry of the buds required a slightly bigger case to ensure they’d slip in with the same satisfying clicks and snaps. Loose-fitting cases for older AirPods Pro should still be compatible with the AirPods Pro 3, but the ones that are snug might not, and you may need a new case. I don’t do cases for my AirPods, so I’m fine sticking a cute keychain on the cases’ built-in lanyard loop. The case also no longer has a physical button on the backside. Matching the AirPods 4 (with and without ANC) case, the AirPods Pro 3 case has a touch-sensitive button just below the battery indicator LED. Double-tapping it puts the wireless earbuds into pairing mode, and double-tapping it three times factory resets it.
Sound quality and active noise cancellation
Like any tech company, Apple takes every opportunity to boast about how it reengineered its products to offer even better this or that. For AirPods Pro 3, Apple says the wireless earbuds use a “new multiport acoustic architecture” for better sound across all frequencies—highs, mids, and lows. I’ll leave the scientific tests to the audiophiles at SoundGuys and RTings, but to a regular Joe like myself, they sound virtually the same compared to AirPods Pro 2. That’s not a knock—AirPods Pro 2 sound great—but we’ve reached a ceiling for sound quality in wireless earbuds. If there’s any discernible difference, it’s that the lows are just a bit cleaner, especially if you’re using the AirPods Pro 3 in motion like running. Many of the bass-heavy tracks in the Power Hour playlist on Spotify sounded deeper with less distortion, and vocals sounded just a smidge clearer. I thought some of my favorite new songs from Linkin Park’s latest album, “From Zero,” including “Stained” and “IGYEIH,” would sound miles better, but alas, they sound about the same. There wasn’t much that Apple needed to improve in terms of sound quality, so I’m not surprised at all that any audible differences are minor. I’m fine with not messing with the already great sound. It’s better than Apple forcing some kinda AI enhancement to remaster songs for the modern age and potentially ruining them.
Transparency mode is also more natural-sounding. Compared to other similar modes on other wireless earbuds that I’ve tried, like the Pixel Buds 2 Pro, Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, and Nothing Ear, I’ve always found Transparency mode on AirPods Pro 2 to sound the cleanest. Background noise is blended with music in such a way that it doesn’t sound like a synthetic mode with tinniness or reverb that I’ve noticed on other wireless earbuds. On AirPods Pro 3, I could hear voices and ambient sounds mix more seamlessly with my music. It’s subtle, but very nice!
ANC is a different story. Apple says it improved active noise cancellation by two times compared to AirPods Pro 2, and by four times compared to the first-gen AirPods Pro and AirPods 4 with ANC, which have the same level of noise cancellation. I don’t have the tools to measure and verify that ANC claim, so again, I’ll let the audio experts tackle that, but I can tell you the ANC (with the best-fitting eartip for my ears) is noticeably stronger in blocking out background noise. As I type this, I can’t hear the whir of the Dyson Airblade fan from 10 feet across the room or even the battery-powered pocket fan on my desk. I didn’t hear my cat, Kiwi, meowing like a maniac earlier when it was her dinner time. Outside, on the subway, the screeches and rumblings of the train were more drowned out compared to my AirPods Pro 2; I felt less irritated not having to hear a guy singing bad karaoke for two stops. All of this is to say, the ANC on AirPods Pro 3 is indeed better than on any other AirPods. Is it the best there is in any wireless earbuds? Better than the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds (2nd Gen) that my colleague James Pero says have “amazing ANC” and are best in class? Probably not—AirPods Pro 3 don’t completely eliminate external sound—but they’re gonna be more than enough for most people. Crank the volume up past 50% when you’re listening to music and you’re gonna hear less environmental noise.
The biggest new addition in AirPods Pro 3 is the heart rate sensor. If you don’t have an Apple Watch, you can use it to track your heart rate and calories while using the Fitness app. The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2, released in February, were Apple’s first pair of wireless earbuds with a built-in heart rate sensor, but they fell short of being useful because you couldn’t simultaneously track your heart rate and listen to music. Many reviewers also found the heart rate readings to be inaccurate compared to an Apple Watch, chest strap, or even smart rings like Oura.
Apple confirmed to Gizmodo that the heart rate sensor inside AirPods Pro 3 is completely different technology compared to the Powerbeats Pro 2 and wasn’t based on it. Weird, how Beats is owned by Apple, but developed its own inferior tech. You’d think there would be more synergy between the two companies internally.
Either way, I’m happy to report that you can listen to music and get a real-time heart rate reading while using the AirPods Pro 3. I didn’t have a chest strap monitor to compare the AirPods Pro 3 with, but there’s a low deviation between the heart rate sensor in the wireless earbuds compared to an Apple Watch Series 9 and Series 10. Before, during, and after three outdoor walks and two 2-mile runs, I did back-to-back checks on the heart rate readings between the three wearables and found there was generally a beats per minute (bpm) difference between 1 and 5. Sometimes the AirPods Pro 3 and Apple Watches recorded the exact same heart rate. This heart rate variability is considered normal; anything higher than 5 bpm would have been reason to worry about the accuracy of the sensor in the AirPods Pro 3. Of course, there’s always going to be some difference when you’re measuring heart rate in your ear versus on your wrist or chest. There’s also the matter of making sure the heart rate sensor on the AirPods Pro 3 is properly covered by your ear’s front flap, or tragus. A poor fit could result in inaccurate heart rate readings, so keep that in mind.
You’re probably thinking: if you have an iPhone, then you probably have an Apple Watch, so why would you need a heart rate sensor in AirPods Pro 3 as a duplicative feature? First, not everyone who has an iPhone owns an Apple Watch. Not everyone wants a smartwatch, though the new $250 Apple Watch SE 3 is gonna be a value that’s too good for fence-sitters to refuse. Second, the heart rate sensor in the AirPods Pro 3 is just a single stream of heart rate data. Apple says that combined with an Apple Watch, you’ll get multiple readings and the Health and Fitness apps will log whichever is the more accurate one. It’s not an average of multiple connected heart rate sensors, Apple says. I pressed the company on what exactly “more accurate” means, but it seems the company is keeping that info secret, only stating that the activity and calorie tracking reading is determined based on an AI model that was trained from over 50 million hours of data from its Apple Heart and Movement Study.
Live Translation
Companies have been trying to figure out how to shove real-time translations into wireless earbuds for years. Google first attempted live translations with its original Pixel Buds in 2017. To review them, I brought in two professional interpreters who had translated for UN conferences to help me test the accuracy and speed of Google Translate running on the Pixel Buds paired to a Pixel 2 XL. The results were not unexpected: the Pixel Buds were no replacements for live translations from humans. The live translation feature was convenient and helpful in a pinch, but clearly too literal in translations, and oftentimes incorrectly translated certain words or phrases. The professional interpreters were able to translate five times faster than waiting for Google to beam the translations from the cloud. Eight years later, Apple may have cracked it.
Live Translation on AirPods Pro 3 is the same feature, but it actually (mostly) works—and in near real-time—from what I could gather. The number of supported languages at launch is short—English (UK), English (U.S.), French, German, Portuguese (Brazil), and Spanish (Spain)—but Apple says it plans to add Italian, Japanese, Korean, and Mandarin Chinese (Simplified) by the end of the year. As somebody who’s been learning Mandarin Chinese and starting on Japanese, I was bummed I couldn’t try out either. I’ll have to revisit Live Translation when those languages are added.
I tested Live Translation in Spanish and French, though in most cases the Spanish was of the Mexican variety. Turning on Live Translation is easy, and there are several ways to do so. You can squeeze the stems of both buds, and your iPhone will launch the Translate app. You don’t need to have the app open, but you’ll get live transcriptions for both the language that’s being translated and that you’re translating into. You can use a Siri Shortcut and map it to the Action button on a supported iPhone. Or you can simply say, “Siri, start Live Translation.” I found this to be the worst of the three ways, with the voice assistant constantly translating “live translation” into a language after the command. Siri also repeatedly got confused about where the start and end of a sentence I asked to be translated was. Clearly, Siri is still not as intelligent as it could and should be by. Google’s Gemini seems to misunderstand me a lot less on the Pixel 10 and Galaxy Z Fold 7.
I first tested translating Spanish with my friend Christian, who speaks it as her first language. We had a brief conversation about what types of food and activities there are to do in my neighborhood. She said the translations were about 95% accurate. There were some instances where the AirPods Pro 3 microphones failed to pick up on a few words that both of us said. For example, I tacked on “Thanks, honey” at the end of the convo and the buds just didn’t hear that part. I don’t know if I spoke too quickly or too softly or what. It’s not a dealbreaker unless you’re mentioning something really important.
In classic Apple style, Live Translation has its nice attention to detail. When activated, ANC turns on and the beamforming mics in AirPods Pro 3 kick in to isolate the voice of the speaker directly in front of you so you can focus on what they’re saying. If the other person is wearing AirPods Pro 3 (or Pro 2 or AirPods 4 with ANC), they’ll get the same experience.
Then, I tried Live Translation with a fruit stand seller speaking Mexican Spanish, while Christian monitored the live transcriptions on my iPhone. I asked, “Can I get some fresh orange juice?” and the AirPods Pro 3 read back (and transcribed in the app), “¿Puedo conseguir un zuma de naranja fresco?” Christian told me that while that was correct because Live Translation was translating English to Spanish (Spain), she would have gone with “jugo” for juice instead of “zuma”, which is more common in conversational Spanish. Maybe one day, Apple Translate and Live Translation on AirPods Pro will be able to automatically detect accents and regional vocabulary, and personalize translations to them. For now, Live Translation seems to work mostly as advertised.
The best part of Live Translation is that it all works on-device—no internet connection is required. I tested it with the Wi-Fi turned off and translations worked just as quickly. Of course, you will need to download the languages to your iPhone, so you will eat up some storage, but also your conversations (audio and transcriptions) are never saved on the device or anywhere in iCloud or the cloud, and Apple promises that it doesn’t use any Live Translation data for training its AI models. That’s a relief, because I don’t need Apple or any AI knowing the very stupid conversations I like having with my international friends.
Another fun way I found to use Live Translation was while watching YouTube videos. I loaded up a video from a Spanish-speaker and turned the volume loud enough for the AirPods Pro 3 to pick up the audio and translate it back in real-time. All of a sudden, videos in Spanish became more accessible without having to glance down at the bottom of the screen and potentially missing what was happening. I compared the voice translations coming through the buds and the Translate app to the on-screen subtitles and auto-dubbed version from YouTube, and they seemed to track closely. AI voice translations are rapidly breaking down language barriers for video content and I’m all for enabling more people to view and connect with videos regardless of their native tongue. What I’m not sure about just yet is using AI to deepfake or reproduce a person’s voice (and sometimes even sync it to lip movements). Google’s Pixel 10 phones have a feature called Voice Translate that does real-time voice translations (also on-device) during phone calls, but it clones your voice with near pitch-perfect tones and inflections. It’s cool, creepy, and a month after reviewing the devices, I’m still not sure whether it’s necessary. Google frames Voice Translate as “hear the voices you love, not a robot,” but this is gonna be something consumers will decide whether it goes too far. Fortunately, you don’t need to worry about deepfaked voices with AirPods Pro 3 and Live Translation—you get two female voices and a male one to choose from.
There are two ways to look at battery life for wireless earbuds: you can get longer battery life from a single charge for the buds and fewer hours total with the charging case, or less continuous listening time with the buds and more total hours with the charging case. On AirPods Pro 2, the buds could last up to 6 hours with ANC and get up to 30 hours total with the case—that’s five additional charges. On AirPods Pro 3, Apple bumped up the buds an extra 2 hours to 8 hours on a single charge, but reduced the total amount of battery with the case to 24 hours—so you only get two extra charges.
That’s an upgrade if you prefer more continuous listening time, like for a long-haul flight. But it’s a downgrade if you want more battery life on the go. This split between continuous listening battery life and total battery life with the case is equal to Sony’s WF-1000XM5 wireless earbuds. Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) get up to 6 hours with ANC and only 24 hours total with the case.
This change may mean trips to the outlet sooner than before. I really wish Apple had sped up the fast charging. A 5-minute charge still provides only 1 hour of listening time, just like on AirPods Pro 2.
Still great for audio, but the future is health and AI
There are some other features that are nice, like the ability to press the stem of a bud to click the shutter when you’ve got the Camera app open; good if you’re a vlogger or want to snap a photo with your iPhone propped up from afar. AirPods Pro 3 also have a newer Ultrawide band chip inside the charging case that lets you find them using Precision Find My from 1.5x farther away, according to Apple. I’ve maybe used Precision Find My only a handful of times with my AirPods Pro 2, so it’s not a big addition for me, but if you’re always misplacing your wireless earbuds, it could come in handy.
Apple is also doing more for hearing health and assistance, with the hearing test that you can take during setup for the AirPods Pro 3 now being scientifically validated.
Combined with the upgraded basics for sound, ANC, battery life, and durability, AirPods Pro 3 are an even better wireless earbuds package than the AirPods Pro 2. The price is still the same $250 MSRP, but if the deep sales on AirPods Pro 2 in the past years are any indication, AirPods Pro 3 may drop drop $200 or $150 this holiday season. Yes, there are probably better-value ANC wireless earbuds out there, but they’re not buds that are designed to pair and switch seamlessly between Apple devices. Nor will other wireless earbuds have the same tight integration with Apple services, like the heart rate tracking and Live Translation that are only possible with iPhone and the Fitness app. If you’ve got an Android phone, you’ll get all the better core wireless earbuds features, but you won’t get the health and AI stuff, and that’s where the puck is going. With AirPods Pro 3, you’re getting a front-row seat to where things are headed. I would bet money that once Apple gets its Apple Intelligence-powered Siri back on track, that’s when we’ll really see AI in AirPods open new doors.
