10 Best Earbuds 2025 in the United States

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are a standout option in the earbuds category, particularly for users seeking premium sound quality and advanced features. One of their key strengths is the active noise cancellation, which effectively blocks out background noise, making them ideal for commuting or busy environments. The Transparency mode is a welcome feature that allows users to remain aware of their surroundings, perfect for outdoor activities.

Comfort is also a priority, as the earbuds come with multiple silicone tips to fit various ear shapes, ensuring a snug and secure fit. With a battery life of up to 6 hours on a single charge and a total of 30 hours with the charging case, they are well-suited for long listening sessions without frequent recharging.

Their sound quality is impressive, thanks to the custom Apple-designed H2 chip that enhances audio clarity and depth. The AirPods also include features like personalized spatial audio, which can elevate the listening experience, particularly for movies and music. Durability-wise, the IP54 rating means they are resistant to dust and sweat, making them suitable for workouts or outdoor use. However, they are not fully waterproof, so caution is needed around water.

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Earbuds are a solid choice for anyone looking for high-quality sound and impressive noise cancellation in a compact, wireless package. The sound quality is a major highlight, delivering a rich, deep bass that enhances the listening experience. The active noise cancellation is world-renowned, making it perfect for commuting or noisy environments. These earbuds come with an IPX4 rating, offering some protection against sweat and splashes, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor use. They also feature a comfortable fit with multiple eartip sizes included, ensuring they stay secure during various activities.

Battery life is commendable at up to 8.5 hours on a single charge, with a quick 20-minute charge offering an additional 2 hours of playtime. Connectivity is robust thanks to Bluetooth 5.3, allowing seamless connection within 30 feet of your device and the ability to connect to multiple devices simultaneously. The customizable touch controls and the Bose QCE app add convenience by letting you adjust settings, manage battery life, and switch between devices easily.

However, these earbuds are on the heavier side at 70 grams, which might not be ideal for prolonged wear. Additionally, while the earbuds are water-resistant, they are not fully waterproof, limiting their use in heavy rain or swimming. The price point could also be a consideration, as Bose products tend to be on the higher end. Despite these minor drawbacks, these earbuds are an excellent option for users prioritizing sound quality, noise cancellation, and reliable connectivity.

The Apple AirPods 4 are a solid choice in the earbud category, especially for users deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem. One of the standout features is their impressive sound quality, enhanced by the H2 chip, which also improves call quality through voice isolation. The personalized spatial audio creates an immersive listening experience, making them great for music, movies, and gaming. Battery life is commendable; you can get up to 5 hours on a single charge, and with the charging case, you can enjoy up to 30 hours total. The redesigned case now includes USB-C for convenient charging.

Comfort is another plus, as the AirPods 4 have been rebuilt for a better fit, making them suitable for long listening sessions. They're also dust, sweat, and water-resistant (IP54), which adds durability for active users or those who might use them during workouts.

While they excel in various areas, they lack active noise cancellation, which might be a drawback for those looking for complete immersion in noisy environments. The touch controls, while intuitive, might take some getting used to, especially for users who prefer physical buttons. Additionally, the price point may be higher than some competing earbuds, making them less accessible for budget-conscious consumers.