Overview
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![Apple AirPods Pro 2 Wireless Earbuds]()
Apple AirPods Pro 2 Wireless Earbuds
Best for iPhone Users - Jump To Details
![Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds]()
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
Best Noise Cancellation - Jump To Details
![Sony WF-1000XM5]()
Sony WF-1000XM5
Best for Audiophiles - Jump To Details
![Etymotic ER3 XR]()
Etymotic ER3 XR
Most Accurate Sound - Jump To Details
![Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro]()
Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro
Best Noise Cancellation for Around $100 - Jump To Details
![Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation]()
Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation
Best for Transparency - Jump To Details
![Shure Aonic 215 (Gen 2)]()
Shure Aonic 215 (Gen 2)
Most Effective EQ - Jump To Details
![Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2]()
Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2
Best for Exercise - Jump To Details
![Tribit FlyBuds 3]()
Tribit FlyBuds 3
Best Budget Fitness Buds - Jump To Details
![Nothing Ear (a)]()
Nothing Ear (a)
Most Stylish
If you love music, chances are you won't be happy with any old earphones. More specifically, if you listen on the go, you may prefer the lighter feel of in-ear buds rather than over-the-ear headphones. PCMag has been reviewing earphones for nearly three decades and true wireless earphones since the first pair arrived. Whether you prefer wireless or wired listening, our recommendations cover everything from audiophile-friendly in-ear monitors like the Etymotic Research ER3 XR to true wireless waterproof models like the Jabra Elite 8 Gen 2 for exercise. Each of our recommendations has its strengths, so click the links to read our full reviews. Last, make sure to scroll to the bottom to find out everything you should keep in mind when determining the best earbuds for you.
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
![Apple AirPods Pro 2 Wireless Earbuds]()
Apple AirPods Pro 2 Wireless Earbuds
Best for iPhone UsersWhy We Picked It
The second-generation AirPods Pro still closely rival the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds in the noise cancellation department. Sonically, they balance rich lows with crisp, sculpted highs, while top-notch extras like spatial audio and adaptive audio (transparency) modes add considerable value.
Who It’s For
If you own an iPhone (or any other Apple device), these earphones offer the most seamless audio experience by far. Brand loyalty (in this case) also gets you near unbeatable active noise cancellation.
Pros
- Rich, well-balanced audio performance
- Excellent active noise cancellation
- Conversation Aware feature adjusts your music volume when you speak
- Charging case has a built-in speaker, USB-C port
- Seamless integration with Apple devices
- Hearing aid and hearing protection features arriving soon
Cons
- No hi-res codec support
- EQ presets aren't adjustable
![Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds]()
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
Best Noise CancellationWhy We Picked It
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds offer the best active noise cancellation of any earphones we've tested. That alone qualifies them for this list, but we're also fans of their rich, engrossing audio experience, as well as their intuitive companion app. We like that they support the AptX Adaptive codec for Android users, too.
Who It’s For
If you care about blocking out noise more than anything else, you won't find a better option on the market. People who prefer an accurate sound signature might not enjoy the audio presentation here, but it's a reason why many people like Bose headphones.
Pros
- Best-in-class noise cancellation
- Crisp, full-bodied audio
- Active Aware feature blends noise cancellation and transparency modes
- Spatial audio support with head tracking
- Good Bluetooth codec support
Cons
- Case doesn’t support wireless charging
- No multipoint connectivity
Learn MoreBose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Review![Sony WF-1000XM5]()
Sony WF-1000XM5
Best for AudiophilesWhy We Picked It
Sony's WF-1000XM5 earbuds are among the most premium you can buy. They support high-res playback via the LDAC codec, offer excellent noise cancellation (thanks to a combination of effective ANC circuitry and hybrid foam eartips), and work with a companion app with a customizable EQ and scores of personalization options. The quality of the onboard mic array is superb, too.
Who It's For
If you want top-notch streaming quality from your Android phone and nearly best-in-class noise cancellation, these Sony earphones are worth the high price.
Pros
- Rich bass response and crisp, detailed highs
- Adjustable in-app EQ
- Excellent noise cancellation
- Top-tier mic clarity
- Case supports wireless charging
- Hands-free Alexa and Google Assistant
Cons
- Expensive
- Some bloat in companion app
Learn MoreSony WF-1000XM5 Review![Etymotic ER3 XR]()
Etymotic ER3 XR
Most Accurate SoundWhy We Picked It
Most earphones that claim to offer a flat response rely on some amount of sculpting to craft an engaging sound, but the Etymotic ER3 XR earphones buck that trend by sticking more closely to the ideal of clinical accuracy than any other pair under $500. Compared with the XP edition, this XR version extends the bass range ever so slightly, but not nearly as much as most consumer models.
Who It’s For
Engineers and musicians who need to hear the truth in their mixes aren't likely to find better earphones than the ER3 XR, especially for the price. These produce every detail throughout the frequency range and present the bass with precision.
Pros
- Accurate audio with deep, but clean, bass response.
- Detachable cable.
- Lightweight, secure in-ear fit with multiple eartip options.
Cons
- Not for those seeking big bass sound.
- No inline remote.
Learn MoreEtymotic ER3 XR![Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro]()
Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro
Best Noise Cancellation for Around $100Why We Picked It
In addition to producing robust lows and crisp highs, the Anker Liberty 4 Pro earphones benefit from good battery life and above-average active noise cancellation for the price, making them an excellent value choice. They also feature an advanced case that includes a hidden battery life readout.
Who It’s For
If you want to stick to your budget without compromising audio quality, these Anker earbuds won't disappoint. Android users can take advantage of the audiophile-friendly LDAC codec.
Pros
- Deep and rich bass response
- Excellent noise cancellation
- Comfortable fit
- Solid battery life
Cons
- Large charging case
Learn MoreAnker Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro Review![Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation]()
Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation
Best for TransparencyWhy We Picked It
For their price, the Apple AirPods 4 With Active Noise Cancellation earbuds effectively dial back low-frequency rumble and do a commendable job against the mids and highs—despite the open-ear design. Otherwise, they deliver a detailed audio signature and excellent transparency features. We also like that they work natively with Apple's iPhones.
Who It’s For
If you want above-average ANC, an open design, and quality sound with a natural-sounding transparency mode these Apple earbuds should top your short list.
Pros
- Full-bodied bass and clear highs
- Impressive active noise cancellation
- Hands-free Siri with gesture-based interactions
- H2 chip enables multiple adaptive audio features
Cons
- Open design can cause inconsistent ear-to-ear fit
- So-so battery life
- No user-adjustable EQ
![Shure Aonic 215 (Gen 2)]()
Shure Aonic 215 (Gen 2)
Most Effective EQWhy We Picked It
The Shure Aonic 215 (Gen 2) earphones are a bit bulky, but they are one of the most versatile entries on this list: You can use them in either a wired or wireless mode. Our favorite feature, however, is the very flexible EQ you get in the companion app. It lets you adjust specific frequencies in a way that's just not possible with competing models.
Who It’s For
If you prefer to sculpt a custom sound signature, this is your best bet. Furthermore, if you have lots of high-quality local media files, the wired listening mode ensures you don't lose any detail in transmission (unlike with a Bluetooth connection).
Pros
- Accurate audio performance with rich lows and clear highs
- Class-leading EQ
- Customizable controls
- Water-resistant design
Cons
- Expensive
- Bulky build and case
Learn MoreShure Aonic 215 (Gen 2) Review![Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2]()
Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2
Best for ExerciseWhy We Picked It
Jabra's Elite 8 Active Gen 2 earbuds are our top pick for fitness fanatics. They have an excellent IP68 rating, which means they are fully dustproof and can survive being submerged in water. We also like their bass-forward audio signature, adjustable in-app EQ, effective transparency mode, above-average active noise cancellation, and advanced case.
Who It’s For
Whether you prefer to exercise in the gym or the great outdoors, these durable Jabra earbuds won't let you down when it's time to get wet or dirty. Thanks to its IP54 rating, even the charging case can withstand the elements. It can also broadcast audio from any source with a 3.5mm headphone jack or USB-C port.
Pros
- Deep bass and detailed highs
- Excellent noise cancellation against lows
- App includes adjustable EQ and controls
- Fully dustproof and waterproof
- Water-resistant charging case can stream audio
Cons
- Noise cancellation is sometimes inconsistent
- App buries some features
Learn MoreJabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 Review![Tribit FlyBuds 3]()
Tribit FlyBuds 3
Best Budget Fitness BudsWhy We Picked It
The Tribit FlyBuds 3 have remained on our list for several years because no other budget model offers as complete an experience. These earphones sound quite good, can withstand heavy amounts of moisture, and ship with a case that provides an impressive 95 hours of extra battery life.
Who It’s For
If you need earbuds for the gym and don't want to spend a ton of money, the FlyBuds 3 are a top choice. Sure, you can get better audio quality from more expensive options, but these deliver all the low-end power you need to energize your workouts. And because they are so inexpensive and durable, you don't need to worry too much about losing or breaking them.
Pros
- Bass-forward, powerful audio performance
- Excellent battery life for true wireless earphones—can charge external devices, too
- Affordable
- IPX7-rated waterproof
- Excellent fit stability, with multiple eartip options
Cons
- Ho-hum design
- Wildly sculpted sound signature
- No app, so no EQ to tame the audio
Learn MoreTribit FlyBuds 3 Review![Nothing Ear (a)]()
Nothing Ear (a)
Most StylishWhy We Picked It
The Nothing Ear (a) earphones are distinctive thanks to their transparent earpiece and case design. We particularly like their vibrant yellow finish, though they also come in black or white. Otherwise, they produce detailed audio, support the AAC and LDAC codecs, and offer better-than-average durability. They don't cancel noise quite as well as the class-leading Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC, but can still help take care of the worst distractions.
Who It’s For
If your top priorities are audio quality, aesthetics, and affordability, these earbuds are worth a look. They are just as functional as they are stylish and work best with a Nothing Phone.
Pros
- Bass-forward, relatively balanced audio
- Unique, transparent design
- Adjustable in-app EQ
- Good codec support
Cons
- Top competitors have better noise cancellation
Learn MoreNothing Ear (a) Review
Buying Guide: The Best Earbuds (In-Ear Headphones) for 2024
What's the Difference Between Earphones and Earbuds?
The terms earbuds and earphones might seem interchangeable, but they usually indicate an important distinction. For our purposes, earbuds don't enter your ear canal but sit just outside. This design fits more loosely and can cause problems with accurate stereo imaging (in which both ears get the same amount of audio) and bass response.
In-ear earphones, meanwhile, have silicone or foam tips that fit in the ear canal and form a seal inside your ear, blocking outside noise while piping sound directly into your ears. These often come with eartips in different sizes that help ensure the best possible seal. Others ship with additional flexible fins that provide even more fit security.
The term earbuds has become synonymous with earphones and in-ear headphones, so the difference is ultimately academic. Whatever you call them and whatever they say on the box, you should look for earphones with tips that form a good seal inside your ear. They sound much better than models with plastic-covered drivers that rest loosely against your ear canal.
Should You Choose Wired or Wire-Free Earphones?
At this point, true wireless earbuds have become so prevalent that you won't come across many wired earphones (or even Bluetooth earphones with a wire connecting them) unless you seek them out. True wireless earphones consist of two individual earpieces that connect to your phone and each other over Bluetooth, so you don't have to deal with a cable at all. They're convenient and refined enough that you can find a pair to fit almost any need or budget (there are plenty available for under $50, for instance).
This doesn't mean that wired earphones are no longer worth considering. You can still get a pair of earphones that connect to your phone via a 3.5mm headphone jack or even a Lightning or USB-C connector. You don't need to charge them like wireless earphones, and many pricier models offer better fidelity for audiophiles.
Want to know more about sound signatures and audio quality? Check out our features on EQs and digital signal processing (DSP).
What Are the Best Earphones for Exercise?
Earphones might not be as eye-catching as headphones, but they can be much more convenient. Besides their size and weight advantages, earphones are often more resilient than headphones when it comes to moisture. Their IP rating indicates how much dust and water exposure they can handle. This is an important factor to consider if you want to listen to music at the gym. Sweat can soak and wear out earpads over time, so most full-on headphones aren't likely to stand up to the constant friction that comes with working out. Our story on the best true wireless earbuds for running has more details.
Not all earphones are workout-friendly, though; don't assume your earphones can handle everything you throw at them unless they explicitly list an IP rating (ideally IPX5 or higher). Really pricey earphones can be as fragile as really pricey headphones, and you don't want to accidentally ruin a $300 pair with sweat.
How to Care for Your Earphones
If you get wired earphones, make sure to use any included pouch or carrying case as often as possible to preserve their longevity. Balling them up, shoving them into a pocket, and then untangling them each time you want to listen does more to wear them out prematurely than just about anything else. Of course, this isn't a factor for true wireless earphones, which stow away inside a charging case. Don't assume the case has the same IP rating as the earphones; they often aren't nearly as durable. For more details, check out five easy tips to extend the life of your headphones and eight ways you're using your headphones wrong.
And if you're shopping on a budget, scan our picks for the best cheap true wireless earbuds.
