Ditch your AirPods! Find the best alternatives in our comprehensive reviews. Get the perfect fit, features, and sound quality.
You’ve been living that wireless earbud life with your trusty AirPods, but maybe it’s time for an upgrade. Your current earbuds are looking a little worse for wear and the battery life isn’t what it used to be. You’ve heard good things about some of the AirPod alternatives out there, but don’t know where to start. Before you shell out for another pair of AirPods, it’s worth checking out some of the other excellent options – you might just find your new go-to earbuds.
We’ve tested out wireless earbuds from top brands like Sony, Samsung, and Bose to find the ones that deliver sound, battery life, and features. We’ll break down the pros and cons of each so you can find your perfect fit. Whether you’re looking for fitness earbuds, noise canceling, or something more budget-friendly, we’ve got you covered. Read on to discover the best wireless earbud alternatives to AirPods.
Why You Might Want an Alternative to AirPods
Superior Sound Quality
AirPods are fine for casual listening, but audiophiles will likely prefer an alternative with better sound. Options like the Sony WF-1000XM4 or Bose QuietComfort Earbuds offer superior sound quality with features like noise cancellation, customizable EQ, and support for high-resolution audio codecs.
Better Fit and Comfort
Not everyone finds the AirPods design comfortable or securely fitting. If AirPods don’t stay put in your ears or cause discomfort, try an alternative like the Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro or Jabra Elite 75t. These offer ergonomic designs, interchangeable ear tips, and fins for a customized fit.
Longer Battery Life
While AirPod’s battery life has improved, it still may not be enough for long flights or extended listening sessions. Some wireless earbuds like the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2 offer 8 hours of continuous playback on a single charge with additional charges in the case.
Advanced Features
You may want some of the advanced features found in other premium wireless earbuds. Things like active noise cancellation to block out ambient noise, wireless charging, wear detection that automatically pauses your music when you remove an earbud, and transparency mode to let in outside sound when needed.
Save Some Cash
High-quality wireless earbuds don’t have to cost as much as AirPods. You can find solid alternatives from Anker, Edifier, and others for under $100 that offer comparable sound and battery life. While they may lack some features, they can save you $50-$150 compared to AirPods.
Key Features to Look for in AirPod Alternatives
Sound Quality
When looking for AirPod replacements, stellar sound is a must. Check reviews to determine the sound signature and see if it matches what you prefer – crisp highs, punchy bass, or balanced sound. Many alternatives now offer noise cancellation to block out ambient noise, which can greatly improve audio quality, especially in noisy environments.
Comfort and Fit
AirPods are praised for their comfortable, lightweight fit. Look for alternatives with a similar earbud or ear tip style that won’t irritate your ears or fall out easily. Options with interchangeable ear tips in different sizes are ideal so you can get the perfect fit. Some brands also offer customizable ear hooks or fins for extra security.
Battery Life
While AirPods get around 5 hours per charge, many alternatives offer longer battery life so you can listen all day. Aim for at least 6 to 8 hours of playback on a single charge. Some options provide up to 12 hours or more. Fast charging capability is also useful so you can get hours of playback from just 15 minutes of charging.
Smart Features
AirPods seamlessly integrate with other Apple devices thanks to the H1 chip. Some alternatives offer similar “smart” features like auto-pause when you remove an earbud, easy pairing, touch controls, and hands-free access to voice assistants like Siri. Certain options are also compatible with virtual assistants from Google or Amazon.
Price
You don’t have to pay a premium to get great sound and features. AirPod alternatives range from around $30 up to $200 or more for high-end models. You can get solid wireless earbuds with good sound and 6 to 8 hours of battery life for under $50. For more advanced options with noise cancellation and ambient sound control, expect to pay between $100 to $200.
With so many AirPod alternatives on the market at a range of price points, you can easily find a pair that suits your needs and budget. Compare models based on the factors above to determine the best option for you.
Our Top Picks for the Best Alternative to AirPods
If you’re looking for a great set of wireless earbuds but aren’t sold on AirPods, you’ve got plenty of excellent options to choose from. We’ve tested some of the top brands to find the best alternatives for sound, features, and your budget.
Sony WF-1000XM4
- Sony’s flagship WF-1000XM4 earbuds are arguably the best on the market right now. They offer phenomenal sound quality with rich bass and clear highs. Industry-leading noise cancellation blocks out the world around you. They’re also comfortable to wear for long periods and have a solid 8 hours of battery life. The only downside is the high price tag, but for audiophiles, they’re worth every penny.
Key Features
- Industry-Leading Noise Cancellation: The WF-1000XM4 employs Sony’s Integrated Processor V1 and dual noise-sensing microphones to deliver superior active noise cancellation (ANC).
- Exceptional Sound Quality: Enjoy rich, detailed audio thanks to specially designed 6mm drivers and support for High-Resolution Audio Wireless (with LDAC codec).
- Smarter Listening: Features like Speak-to-Chat (automatically pauses music for conversations) and Adaptive Sound Control (adjusts ANC based on your environment) provide a customized experience.
- Superior Call Quality: Beamforming microphones and a bone-conduction sensor isolate your voice for crystal-clear calls, even in noisy settings.
- Comfortable and Secure Fit: Ergonomic design and new noise-isolating earbud tips ensure a stable and comfortable fit.
- Water Resistance: IPX4 water resistance protects against sweat and splashes.
- Long Battery Life: Up to 8 hours of playback with ANC on, and an additional 16 hours with the charging case. Wireless charging is also supported.
Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro
- Samsung’s Galaxy Buds Pro is an excellent alternative with dynamic sound and strong noise cancellation. They integrate seamlessly with Samsung Galaxy phones but also work great with any Android device or iPhone. The compact buds are comfortable for most ears and offer up to 8 hours of playtime. At around $200, they strike a good balance of features and affordability.
Key Features
- Intelligent Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Blocks out background noise effectively, with the ability to adjust the level of noise cancellation.
- Immersive Sound: Experience balanced audio with a custom-built 11mm woofer and 6.5mm tweeter in each earbud. Enjoy 360 Audio (Dolby Atmos) for a cinematic sound experience.
- Voice Detect: Automatically switches from ANC to Ambient Sound mode when you begin speaking, allowing for seamless conversations.
- Ambient Sound Mode: Adjustable levels let you control how much of the outside world you hear.
- Clear Calls: Three microphones and a Voice Pickup Unit help deliver clear voice quality during calls.
- Comfortable Fit: Customizable with several ear tip sizes for optimal comfort and seal.
- Water Resistance: IPX7 water resistance for protection against workouts and rain.
- Long Battery Life: Up to 5 hours of playback with ANC on (8 hours with ANC off), plus multiple charges from the case. Wireless charging is supported.
- Auto Switch: Seamlessly switch between compatible Samsung Galaxy devices.
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds
- Bose is known for superior noise cancellation, and their QuietComfort Earbuds deliver on that promise. The StayHear Max tips provide a secure fit, and the buds block out environmental noise so you can focus on your music. Sound quality is balanced with punchy bass and clear highs. Battery life is on the shorter side at 6 hours, but the charging case provides two extra charges on the go. For the best noise cancellation in a wireless bud, the QuietComfort Earbuds are an excellent choice.
Key Features
- World-Class Noise Cancellation: Bose’s proprietary noise cancellation technology effectively blocks out distractions, with adjustable levels for customization.
- High-Fidelity Audio: Delivers rich, detailed sound with deep bass and clear highs thanks to advanced acoustic design and volume-optimized Active EQ.
- StayHear Max Eartips: Soft silicone ear tips with an umbrella shape and extended wing provide a secure and comfortable fit, even during active use.
- Simple Touch Controls: Control volume, noise cancellation, music playback, and calls with intuitive on-earbud touch controls.
- Clear Calls: A microphone array isolates your voice from background noise for crystal-clear phone calls.
- Transparency Mode: Lets you hear your surroundings without taking the earbuds out.
- Water and Sweat resistance: IPX4 rating for protection during workouts or light rain.
- Long Battery Life: Up to 6 hours of listening time per charge, plus two additional charges from the case.
With brands like Sony, Samsung, and Bose making wireless earbuds to rival AirPods, you have fantastic options to choose from. Compare the features and sound profiles that matter most to you, and you’ll find the perfect set of buds for your needs and budget. The days of limited choices are over—you can’t go wrong with any of these alternatives.
Sony WF-1000XM4 – Best Overall Alternative
Hands down, the Sony WF-1000XM4 is the best AirPods alternative on the market today. They deliver premium sound quality, effective noise cancellation, and a comfortable fit—all at a lower price than AirPods Pro.
Superior Sound
The WF-1000XM4 features 6mm drivers and Sony’s proprietary LDAC codec technology which allows for high-resolution audio playback. The result is a remarkably clear, well-balanced sound with punchy bass, sparkling highs, and a wide soundstage. If sound quality is your top priority, these earbuds are hard to beat.
Industry-Leading Noise Cancellation
Sony’s noise-cancelling technology is world-class. The WF-1000XM4 blocks out ambient noise so you can focus on your music, podcast, or phone calls without distraction. Noise cancellation is adjustable—you can choose between full cancellation, optimized for your environment, or turning it off completely with the touch of a button.
All-Day Comfort
The WF-1000XM4 earbuds are lightweight, ergonomically shaped, and come with multiple sizes of ear tips for the perfect fit. Once you find your ideal ear tips, you’ll barely notice these earbuds in your ears. On a single charge, you’ll get up to 8 hours of playback with noise cancellation on, and the charging case provides another 16 hours of power.
For those looking for a superior set of true wireless earbuds that rival the AirPods Pro in practically every way, the Sony WF-1000XM4 should be at the top of your list. They deliver audiophile sound, effective noise cancellation, a comfortable wireless design, and solid battery life for less than the price of AirPods Pro. If you can live without the H1 chip integration, the WF-1000XM4 outperforms AirPods in nearly every other category.
Other Notable AirPod Alternatives Worth Considering
If AirPods aren’t quite right for you, don’t worry—there are plenty of comparable wireless earbuds options on the market to choose from. Here are a few more highly-rated alternatives to consider:
Sony WF-1000XM3
- Sony makes some of the best noise-canceling headphones, and their WF-1000XM3 earbuds are a fantastic AirPod alternative. They offer high-quality sound with rich, full bass and crisp highs. The noise cancellation is also best in class, blocking out nearly all ambient noise. They’re a bit bulkier than AirPods but still comfortable for most. Battery life is on par at around 6 hours per charge. At $230, they’re a solid choice if sound quality and noise cancellation are priorities.
Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro
Samsung’s newest earbuds, the Galaxy Buds Pro, are a compelling option for Android users. They pair seamlessly with Galaxy phones and can switch instantly between devices signed in to your Samsung account. Audio quality is quite good, with deep bass, clear mids, and highs, and they have solid noise cancellation as well. They’re very comfortable and lightweight, IPX7 water resistant, and offer around 5 hours of playtime. At $200, the Buds Pro is an excellent all-around choice if you’re in the Android ecosystem.
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds
Bose is known for premium sound and industry-leading noise cancellation, and their QuietComfort Earbuds deliver on both fronts. The soundstage is wide and balanced, with thumpy bass and crisp highs. The noise cancellation blocks out nearly all outside sounds, great for travel or concentration. They’re on the larger side, so may not suit all ear shapes, but are still comfortable for extended wear. Battery life is rated at 6 hours, and the charging case provides two additional charges. At $279, the QuietComfort Earbuds are a fantastic choice if sound quality and noise cancellation matter most.
In the end, there are many viable options to choose from beyond AirPods. Whether you prefer the convenience of Samsung’s Galaxy Buds Pro, the superb sound of Sony’s WF-1000XM3, or the unrivaled noise cancellation of Bose’s QuietComfort Earbuds, you really can’t go wrong. The perfect AirPod alternative is out there—you just have to find what’s right for you.
Conclusion
Well, there you have it. We’ve covered the best alternatives to AirPods across a range of brands, prices, and features. No matter what you’re looking for in wireless earbuds, whether it’s comfort, sound quality, battery life, or style, there should be an option on this list that fits your needs and budget.
At the end of the day, you can’t go wrong with any of these picks if you want a solid AirPod alternative. Just figure out your must-have features, do a little research on the models that check your boxes, and you’ll be rockin’ and rollin’ with your new wireless earbuds in no time. And who knows – you may even find something you like better than AirPods! The choices are pretty impressive these days. Happy listening!
