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Best Earbuds Reviewed and Rated in 2024
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Style
Just like hats and glasses, these devices are going to accent your head- so you want to make sure that they look good!
We wanted to make a point of selecting slimmer and more compact designs that are going to look like you aren’t wearing anything at all. However, we were also drawn to options that came in a variety of different colors that offered a little bit of character. Some users do not like the styles that look like they aren’t wearing anything at all, because it leaves coworkers and friends hurt and offended when you ignore them when you ask them a question! How these devices look to others one thing that we considered, but style and design are also going to play a big part in how they feel. A comfortable fit is going to be a big factor in whether these become something that you can wear every day. One thing that we looked for was companies that offered various sizes of rubber grips. Not all heads are built exactly the same, so there shouldn’t just be one size rubber grip. Users typically provided higher marks in the category of comfort and fit to those companies that offered various size options to select from, to help users find the right size for them.
Sound Quality
Hands down, the sound quality was one of the most important things that we considered.
Sure, they need to be comfortable and durable, but nothing is going to inspire a great workout than a song that really has a pumping bass and sharp trebles. Realistically speaking these devices aren’t going to give you the same level of quality (especially bass) than standard bulky devices, that slip over your head. Devices need room to create the proper vibrations, and devices that are stuck into your ear just don’t have enough space. However, that isn’t to say that there aren’t designs out there that can do some amazing things.
One of the biggest features that we looked for was a noise-canceling option. Because these devices create an airtight seal, they are perfect for blocking out any and all distractions. We also made sure that we found designs that offered hi-fi stereo sound that provides a very immersive soundscape. If you are a bit of an audiophile and are looking for something that is really going to be comparable to standard options, the design from Bang & Olufsen is going to be as close as you are going to get- but it comes in at a pretty hefty price tag.
Battery Life
The absolute worst thing that can happen in the middle of an intense workout is having your music cut out, so we made sure to select designs that had a battery that can keep up with you.
From what we could gather, the average lifespan of a fully charged device is about 3-4 hours, which is pretty impressive considering that is 3-4 hours of constant streaming. We do have to note that if you are using these devices to talk on the phone, that lifespan will be cut in half to about 2-2.5 hours. On the higher end of the battery life scale is designs that will last you up to 6 hours, but those styles tend to be a little bulky and heavy and can prove to be a little uncomfortable when worn for a longer period of time. So, you are going to have to make a decision to determine which is more important to you - battery life or comfort.
Power Source
All of these devices out there on the market come in a sleek and compact carrying case that also serves as a portable power source.
What we looked for in these cases was not only how many charges could be conducted off of a single charge, but also how long it took for them to charge from dead to full charge. We found that almost all cases were able to conduct at least 2 charges on the low end, and up to 8 charges on the high end. The average number of charges, however, for most designs landed at about 4, which equates to about 16-20 hours of use right in your pocket. We were drawn to designs that had a screen on the inside that would indicate just how charged your design was on a scale of 1 to 100. For the most part, charging up these units is pretty fast and won’t require you to wait around all day, with most being able to portably charge each device in just an hour. Each portable charger typically comes with a USB charging cable so that you can charge up your case by plugging into a power outlet at home, or you can even plug it directly into your phone while you are on the go.
Value
As always, it is important to save you a little bit of money without sacrificing quality.
We found that the price tags on these devices were pretty consistent, and there were very few instances where prices varied. If you aren’t exactly an audiophile and you simply want a device that is able to stream your favorite music and podcasts directly into your brain, you are likely going to need to spend as much money as it will take to fill up your gas tank before a big road trip. However, for all of the audiophiles out there, get ready to crack open that wallet pretty wide. Products that are made by some of the big names such as Bang & Olufsen bring their top of the line research into the science of sound to their devices, and their high-quality designs come in at a price point that can cost up to 6 times as much as many of the more affordable options. If you want something that is going to have smart features such as connectivity to Amazon Alexa, you are going to pay about 2-3 times as much as the average pair.
Top 10 Picks
1. Pasonomi
The reason that we picked the Pasonomi design as our top pick is because it is going to be able to travel with you anywhere- even in the shower! They are made to fit comfortably and securely on your head and offer a great sound as well.
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At first glance, these seem a little bit bulkier than most. They have the standard rubber grip as you find in most designs, and the frame is a bit more rounded and will stick out more than slimmer options. However, that bulkier design is because it is able to offer a really great sound from such a little device.
Sound quality
The lossless HD rendering found within this unit is going to provide you with incredibly crisp treble sound. The high-quality speaker in conjunction with the tight-fitting headpiece is going to be a great way to block out exterior noise, even in really loud environments. One downside users discovered with this design is that the bass isn’t very powerful.
Battery life
One full charge is going to provide users with about 3-4 hours of continuous music.
Power source
When you need to charge them back up, simply place them back into the cradle of their case. This case is able to hold about 60 hours of battery life, so you will find that you will need to charge the case very infrequently. When you do need to charge the case, simply plug the USB cable into an external power source. You can even plug it into your phone for a quick charge!
Value
What we liked about this design is that it comes in at a price that is pretty average. It isn’t the most expensive design out there on the market, but it is far from the least expensive.
Overall
If you are looking for something that is simple, durable, and will keep up with you even during your most intense workout, this design is going to be one of your better options.
2. Kissral
The biggest thing to note about this design from Kissral is that it is going to provide you with hours and hours of continuous playback before needing a charge, and it is built to be tough enough to stand strong during even some of your most intense workouts.
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If you want something that is going to be compact (in both the device and the case), this is going to be one of your better options. These have an exterior design that is going to fit easily in your ear without sticking out too much, but it is still able to deliver some serious sound.
Sound quality
This unit communicates with your phone witBluetoothest 5.0 Bluetooth tech for optional connectivity, and the speakers provide crisp treble and rich bass via the Binaural and bi-directional communication which is a technology that is found in most hearing aids.
Battery life
The great thing about this option is that one single charge on the cradle will offer users up to 4-5 hours of continuous streaming before you need to pop them back on the cradle for a charge.
Power source
The 600mAh battery in the charging case is able to hold enough juice to recharge your device on the go 4-5 times before it also will need to be charged. Charging the cradle is simple- you will just need to plug it into an external power source via a USB cable that is included with purchase.
Value
The cost of this design runs a little lower than average and therefore makes it one of the more affordable wireless options currently out there on the market that still offers superior sound.
Overall
This is a great option for those that are looking to buy something that is going to be reliable and can deliver superior sound without breaking the bank.
3. SPOLEY
If you want a change from the boring old black designs with simple black cases, this option from SPOLEY is going to be a great choice. It is offered in a few fun and bright colors to match your personal style, while still offered superior sound.
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Users will have the option to select from bold colors that include red, blue, or black. The case for each option is small and compact and has a clear protective lid so that you can gauge how close they are to be fully charged at a glance.
Sound quality
Like all quality devices, the unit offers HD rendering sound. It is also able to be adjusted to offer mono stereo if you wish to share your music or your audiobook with a friend. We found that users have reported that the sound quality is rich and full, even when the volume is turned up.
Battery life
One full charge is going to provide users with about 4 hours of continuous streaming, and the case is able to charge the device 4 times before it, too, will need to be charged.
Power source
One thing that we loved about this design is that it has a screen in the center of the case that will give users an indication on a scale of 1-100 on how much longer it needs to charge. When you need to charge the case, simply plug it into a power source via a USB cable.
Value
The cost of this design runs about in the middle of the road in terms of price and will cost you about the same amount you would spend to fill up your gas tank before hitting the road on your next road trip.
Overall
If you are looking for something that has a little bit of spunk and style, this design is going to be one of your better options. Plus, the device, as well as the case, are small and compact which makes them a lot easier to travel.
4. Bang & Olufsen
For all of the audiophiles out there that will only settle for the absolute best even when on the go- you may be impressed by this option from Bang & Olufsen. Keep in mind, however, that the price tag of this design costs about 6 times as much as many of the average priced designs out there on the market.
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One of the things that we noticed right away about this design is that it is offered in a few neutral flesh tones that will make you look like you aren’t wearing anything at all. If that doesn’t seem appealing to you (because everyone is going to wonder why you are ignoring them), it is also offered in a rich indigo blue and black.
Sound quality
Many will tell you that superior sound just isn’t possible with earbuds, but we found that just isn’t the case with this design. These little devices have been expertly tuned by sound engineers from Bang & Olufsen to provide the best sound possible, and based upon insanely glowing reviews from previous customers- they really deliver.
Battery life
The battery life of this design is very similar to many of the average priced options. It can offer continuous play for about 4 hours, and the charging dock can recharge each unit up to 4 times before it will also need a charge.
Power source
The small and compact carrying case is also a battery as well. Users can charge their devices using the case up to 4 times. When the case needs to be charged, simply plug it into an external power source using a USB cable.
Value
We mentioned it before, but the price tag on this option is pretty steep and costs about 6 times what your average pair would sell for. However, if you are willing to spare no expense to receive something that is the top of the line- this is going to be well worth the price point.
Overall
For all of those audiophiles out there that simply will not settle for anything less than the best, this option from Bang & Olufsen is going to be one of your best options if you can get past the incredibly steep price point.
5. G-WACK
This option from G-WACK is a little more flashy than some of the others that we have seen. The exterior has a ring of light around the edges that lights up while in use so that everyone around you knows that you cannot hear them.
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Users are going to be able to select from two fun colors that include red and blue, but also opt for basic black as well. One of the best features that users loved about these designs is that it is incredibly small- it runs about the same size as a quarter. Plus, it is water-resistant so you can wear them worry-free during some of your most intense workouts.
Sound quality
This unit offers hi-fi stereo sound, but it also has a setting for mono sound if you wish to just use one or share your music with a friend. From what we have read from previous users, the sound is quite clear and it is able to reach some pretty high volumes.
Battery life
With one charge, this device is able to deliver about 4 hours of continuous sound- which is pretty standard. The case is able to hold about 16 hours of juice, which equates to about 4 extra charges.
Power source
One of the things that we loved about this design is that the case has a screen in the center to let users know how charged their device is, and it can go from completely dead to fully charged in just one hour.
Value
The cost of this unit runs pretty par for the course. It isn’t the most expensive design that we have seen, but it isn’t the least expensive design out there either.
Overall
What we really like about this design is that it is made for people on the go. The case can offer a quick charge in about an hour, and it is made to be incredibly small and compact which makes it a great travel companion.
6. Powerbeats Pro
Originally designed for athletes, the Powerbeats Pro deliver great sound and won't fall out of your ears. In fact, they require very little, if any, adjustments at all during your workout. They can be connected to Siri, giving you a truly wireless and handsfree experience.
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Powerbeats Pro offer a secure and adjustable fit with the addition of ear hooks. They are great for exercising because they rarely need to be adjusted and they are sweat and water-resistant. There are multiple ear tip options included, which not only improves the comfort but also the sound quality. As for color options, you have the options of black, white, moss, or navy.
Sound Quality
With noise isolating technology, you will be able to focus on your music and task at hand without being distracted. The headphones can be used separately or together. Each has its own Bluetooth chip, volume, and track buttons. One of the most important factors of great sound quality is using the correct size ear tip. A handful of reviewers were underwhelmed with this product initially and then realized that finding the right ear tip provides a seal and significantly improves the sound quality.
Battery Life
Right out of the case on a full charge, you can count on nine continuous hours of use. If you carry the case with you, the case carries another fifteen hours of juice. There is a lightning-fast charging option that gives you 1.5 hours of battery with just a five-minute charge. Another great feature is sleep mode. The buds have motion sensors in them and when they are idle for a long period of time, they sleep.
Power Source
To put it simply, you put the buds in the case and you can charge the two items together. You can also remove the buds ahead of time and continue charging the case. Instead fo a typical micro-USB cord, the Powerbeats Pro use a lightning to USB-A charger, similar to new iPhone chargers.
Value
These are quite an investment. Beats by Dre has a great reputation in the world of headphones and this product is a prime example. There is a warranty card included with your purchase, but the details of the warranty are not made known.
Overall
With so many great features and long battery life, these are a great option. They fit most people comfortably and come with multiple sized ear tips. There have been minor complaints about the size of the case, but not enough to keep this product off of our list.
7. Jaybird Vista
These Jaybird Vistas have been getting a lot of attention lately, and with good reason. These lightweight and comfortable buds fit well in the ear and provide great sound. The Jaybird app allows you to alter the sound settings and also has a Find My Buds feature if you ever misplace them.
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These are true canalphones. The gel ear tip is soft and sits in the canal of your ear. They are lightweight and small, not overly obvious. They come with three different sized ear gels to choose from. They are IPX7 waterproof, making them a great choice for exercising or playing in the rain. As for color choices, you can choose between black or white.
Sound Quality
The design of these buds gives them great noise isolation. On the Jaybird app, you can tinker with the sound settings to get the audio style that you prefer. The Bluetooth and JBS1 wireless technology provide great sound quality without lag for music and phone calls.
Battery Life
On a full charge, these buds will give you six hours of use. A fully charged case holds another ten hours. Using both of the buds at the same time, this gives you sixteen hours of battery life. If you choose to only use one bud at a time, you have thirty-two hours of battery. There is also a five-minute quick charge feature that gives you one hour of use.
Power Source
The case is charged by an included USB-C cord.
Value
It is clear that this is one of the more expensive options, but they are quite impressive. Many reviewers don’t even notice that they are wearing them. With the addition of IPX7 waterproofness, you can take these anywhere.
Overall
If you ever lose these buds, you can use the “find my buds” feature of the app. These are a unique and impressive pair that are a great choice for working out or a daily commute.
8. EarFun
Enjoy all the great features, at a fraction of the price. This addition from EarFun is comfortable, has impressive sound quality, and also features a 49-foot wireless range. The buds don't have as impressive of a battery as others, but with six hours, we are still impressed.
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These buds from EarFun provide a comfortable and secure fit. There are three ear tips to choose from, which improve sound quality and comfort. Choosing the correct tips for your ears is important, as the tip will keep the buds in place while running or exercising. The right bud can be used on its own, but the left can not.
Sound Quality
The sound quality of this item is impressive, especially for such an affordable option. Reviewers say the sound is crisp and often they compare these buds to those of much higher price.
Battery Life
The buds themselves can be used for six straight hours on a full charge. The case carries an extra twenty-four hours of charge. To fully charge the buds it takes one and a half hours. These buds also feature a quick charge that takes only ten minutes and provides you with two hours or use.
Power Source
There are two ways to charge this case. You can use the USB-C cable or a QI wireless charger.
Value
This option from EarFun has many of the same features as our more expensive options, but at a fraction of the price. There is also an 18-month warranty included with purchase.
Overall
If this will be your first pair of buds, or if you have had a bad experience in the past, you should give this option a shot. They are much more affordable than similar styles and have great features.
9. Jabra Elite
We loved this design from Jabra Elite because it fuses modern tech with a simple design. Using voice recognition with Amazon Alexa, you can press the button along the side to have Alexa change up your music playlist while keeping your phone in your pocket and your hands-free.
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This design is going to be a little on the bulkier side compared to some of the slimmer designs. We like that users can select from a few different color options that include basic black, copper, gold, and blue.
Sound quality
One of the things that we noticed that this unit offers is a steady background noise filter that you often have seen in many of the higher-end noise-canceling devices that is able to drown out the sounds in the background so that you can be fully immersed in your music.
Battery life
Another thing that we liked about this option is that it offers up to 5 hours of continuous music, which is just slightly better than other designs out there on the market.
Power source
The case for this design also serves as an external battery to give you a boost when you are far from a permanent power source. This battery can take your device from dead to a full charge up to three times, providing about 15 hours of mobile power.
Value
The downside to this design is that it comes in at a price point that is almost three times as much as many of the standard designs. However, if you take into consideration the convenience of being able to sync to Alexa to keep you hands-free, this is a really great value.
Overall
We think that this design is a really great option for those that are looking for something that is powerful, and the connection to Alexa is a great way to interact with your phone without the need of taking it out of your pocket.
10. Letscom
What we liked about this design from Letscom is that it is something that is simple in its design, but incredibly durable, and it comes in at a really affordable price point that is worth checking out.
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Simplicity is the name of the game when it comes to this design. These devices are small and sleek and do not stick too much. Plus, to ensure that you get a secure and comfortable grip, it also comes with rubber grips in small, medium, and large sizes.
Sound quality
Sound is offered in both stereo mode for when you are alone, and mono mode for when you want to share your music with a friend. From what we have gathered from previous users, the sound quality is good but isn’t something that is going to blow you away.
Battery life
One of the best features of this design is the battery life. A single charge is going to provide you with almost 5 hours of continuous music. The best part is that the portable charger will recharge your device up to 8 times!
Power source
As we mentioned above, the carrying case also serves as the charging port. It will take just 1 hour to completely charge your device from completely dead. When your case needs to be charged, simply use the USB charging cable the comes with the purchase.
Value
The cost of this design is just slightly more affordable than many of the averaged priced options out there on the market. If you are looking for something that is going to save you a little bit of money, this is going to be one of your better options.
Overall
For those that are looking to save a little bit of money on a more affordable option, but still want superior sound, this option from Letscom is worth a look!
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