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 JBL Vibe Beam earbuds are a solid choice for those prioritizing sound quality and long-lasting battery life. Featuring JBL Deep Bass Sound, these earbuds deliver powerful bass that enhances your audio experience, making them great for music lovers. The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable fit, allowing you to wear them for extended periods without discomfort. With up to 32 hours of battery life (8 hours from the earbuds and an additional 24 hours from the charging case), these earbuds are ideal for long commutes or all-day use.

A quick 10-minute charge provides an extra two hours of playtime, which is convenient for those on the go. VoiceAware feature allows for hands-free calls with adjustable voice feedback, adding to their practicality. They are also water and dust-resistant (IP54 rating for the earbuds and IPX2 for the case), making them suitable for various outdoor activities.

While the Bluetooth 5.2 promises good connectivity, it lacks advanced features like multipoint connectivity. The price might be on the higher side for some, considering the absence of premium features like active noise cancellation. These earbuds are best suited for users looking for good sound quality, comfort, and long battery life for everyday use.

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.