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 Apple AirPods 4 offer a strong blend of features that suit users looking for premium wireless earbuds. They deliver personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, creating an immersive sound experience that’s great for music, movies, and gaming. Thanks to the Apple-designed H2 chip, these earbuds provide clear calls with effective voice isolation even in noisy environments. Comfort is a key focus here, with a redesigned, more stable fit and a shorter stem, making them comfortable for all-day wear. Battery life is solid, offering up to 5 hours of listening on a single charge and up to 30 hours with the charging case, which now uses the convenient USB-C standard.

Noise cancellation is present as active noise cancellation with sound isolation, effectively reducing background sounds though it may not match the top tier ANC in the market. Connectivity is seamless, especially with Apple devices, featuring effortless setup, Bluetooth 5.3, and handy sharing options between AirPods sets. The earbuds are also IP54 rated, so they resist dust, sweat, and water well, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor use. Controls are versatile, combining physical press buttons and voice commands with Siri, including innovative hands-free responses via head gestures.

On the downside, the USB-C charge cable is sold separately, and some users might miss more extensive customization of controls or multi-device support outside the Apple ecosystem. Also, while the earbuds are water resistant, they are not fully waterproof, so heavy submersion is not recommended. These AirPods are ideal for Apple users seeking high-quality sound, easy integration, and comfortable wear in a stylish, durable package.

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.