10 Best Battery Life Earbuds 2025 in the United States

The Apple AirPods Pro 3 offer an impressive battery life for wireless earbuds, providing up to 8 hours of listening time with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) turned on, and even longer—up to 10 hours—when using Transparency mode or the Hearing Aid feature. This means you can enjoy most of a day’s worth of music, calls, or workouts without needing to recharge frequently. The included MagSafe charging case extends total listening time significantly. Charging uses a USB-C connection, which is common and convenient, and Apple generally supports quick top-ups so you’re not stuck waiting long for a full battery. One thing to note is that the package does not include a USB-C cable or power adapter, so you’ll need to use an existing one or buy separately.

These earbuds stand out with excellent noise cancellation, a secure fit with multiple ear tip sizes, and extra features like heart rate sensing and live translation. They are ideal for users seeking not only great sound and long battery life but also health tracking and smart connectivity, especially if you are already in the Apple ecosystem.

The Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds shine in the battery department, offering up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge and an impressive total of 30 hours with the USB-C charging case. This makes them suitable for users who prioritize long battery life, whether for commuting, exercising, or simply enjoying music throughout the day. The fast charging capability is a bonus; just 5 minutes in the case provides about an hour of listening time, which is great for those on the go.

Comfort and sound quality also stand out, thanks to their redesigned shape for better fit and the H2 chip that enhances audio clarity, especially during calls in noisy environments. The personalized Spatial Audio feature adds a unique touch to the listening experience, making it ideal for entertainment enthusiasts.

There are some drawbacks. While 5 hours of listening per charge is decent, it may fall short for heavy users who may require longer uninterrupted playtime. Additionally, although the earbuds are water and sweat resistant (IP54), they lack active noise cancellation, which some users might find limiting in noisy surroundings. In terms of compatibility, the AirPods 4 are primarily designed for Apple devices, which might not appeal to Android users. The reliance on Siri for some controls may also not be everyone's preference.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are designed for users seeking a premium experience with excellent sound quality and innovative features. One of their primary strengths is the impressive battery life. You can enjoy up to 6 hours of listening time per charge, and when paired with the charging case, the total listening time extends to about 30 hours. This makes them ideal for prolonged use, whether during daily commutes, workouts, or simply long listening sessions at home.

Fast charging is another highlight, providing around an hour of listening time with just five minutes in the case. This is particularly useful for those who might forget to charge them regularly or for quick top-ups before heading out. The AirPods Pro 2 also boast good battery degradation, meaning they maintain their capacity over time better than some competitors, ensuring long-term performance.

While the battery life is solid, it may not be the best in the market compared to some alternatives that offer longer durations on a single charge. Additionally, the reliance on Apple's ecosystem can be a drawback for those who use non-Apple devices, as some features may not work seamlessly without an iPhone or other Apple device. Furthermore, the earbuds' price point is relatively high, which might not appeal to budget-conscious consumers.