10 Best Highest Rated Earbuds 2025 in the United States

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are a standout choice in the world of wireless earbuds, particularly for users who prioritize sound quality and active noise cancellation. With the advanced H2 chip, these earbuds deliver impressive sound clarity, making music and calls sound rich and detailed. The active noise cancellation feature is particularly effective, managing to block out significant background noise, while the Transparency mode is handy for those who want to remain aware of their surroundings. Additionally, the customizable fit with four different sizes of silicone tips ensures comfort over extended use, a big plus for long listening sessions.

Battery life is another strength; you get around 6 hours of listening time with noise cancellation active, and the case provides an additional 30 hours, making them reliable for daily use. They also feature various control options, including touch controls and voice commands, which enhance the user experience.

There are a few drawbacks. The AirPods Pro 2 are primarily designed for Apple devices, which may limit their appeal for Android users or those with a mixed-device environment. While they do offer decent durability with an IP54 rating for sweat and water resistance, they might not withstand heavy exposure to water or dust compared to some rugged alternatives. Additionally, the price point is on the higher side, which might not be justified for users seeking basic functionality.

The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds are designed especially for active users who need a secure, comfortable fit and long-lasting performance during workouts. Their earhooks, reinforced for flexibility and grip, keep the earbuds firmly in place even during intense exercise, and five ear tip sizes help customize comfort. Sound quality is enhanced by Adaptive EQ and Personalized Spatial Audio, delivering clear highs, rich mids, and strong bass, while advanced Active Noise Cancellation helps block distractions but still offers a Transparency mode to stay aware of surroundings.

Battery life is a standout—up to 45 hours with the charging case and 10 hours per charge, plus quick charging that gives 1.5 hours from just 5 minutes. Connectivity is solid with Class 1 Bluetooth, supporting both Apple and Android features like one-touch pairing and customizable controls via the Beats app. Added perks include real-time heart rate monitoring built into the earbuds, making them suitable for fitness tracking without extra devices. They’re sweat and water resistant (IPX4), so they hold up well in rain or sweat.

On the downside, the charging case is smaller but still requires a USB-C cable which is not included, so you might need to buy one separately. Also, while the earbuds are lighter than before, they might feel a bit bulky if you prefer ultra-compact designs. Controls include physical buttons and voice activation, which are easy to use without interrupting your flow. These earbuds are an excellent choice for fitness enthusiasts and anyone wanting a premium, durable pair of earbuds with excellent sound and battery life, though casual listeners who prioritize ultra-lightweight or the absolute smallest case might want to consider alternatives.

Apple AirPods 4 are a solid choice for anyone seeking high-quality wireless earbuds. They excel in sound quality, featuring Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) that effectively minimizes outside noise, allowing for an immersive listening experience. The addition of Adaptive Audio and Personalized Spatial Audio enhances the sound further, providing a theater-like experience that's great for music, movies, and more. Comfort is also a highlight, with a redesigned shape that ensures all-day wear without discomfort.

Battery life is decent, offering up to 5 hours of listening with ANC enabled, and a total of 30 hours with the charging case, which is quite handy for on-the-go use. Their IP54 rating means they can withstand dust, sweat, and water, making them suitable for workouts or outdoor use.

On the connectivity front, the Bluetooth 5.3 technology ensures a strong and reliable connection with devices. Quick pairing is a breeze, and features such as Siri integration add convenience for hands-free control.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. The price point may be higher compared to other earbuds on the market, which might deter budget-conscious buyers. While the comfort is generally praised, some users with specific ear shapes might still find them less secure during intense activities. Additionally, while the battery life is good, some competitors offer longer listening times without ANC.

Apple AirPods 4 are particularly well-suited for users who prioritize sound quality and seamless integration with Apple devices. If you're looking for a premium listening experience with great noise cancellation and comfort, these earbuds are worth considering. But if you're on a budget or require extended battery life, it might be worth exploring other options.