These days, wireless gadgets are all the rage, and many consider Apple AirPods to be the gold standard. However, customers are finding it more challenging to select the best items, such as a smartphone or headphones, due to manufacturers’ efforts to outdo each other. Aside from the fact that they aren’t water-resistant, there are a lot of other reasons why you shouldn’t buy AirPods. Despite their slick design, Apple AirPods have many drawbacks that make competing products necessary.
Spending $200 on audio quality alone is a foolish idea. A wide variety of headphones are available, each with its own set of advantages in terms of battery life, connectivity, and cost. So, what’s holding you back? Together, we can tick off the top alternatives to AirPods.
TaoTronics Boltune-Super Lightweight Wireless Earbuds
If you’re in the market for a pair of lightweight and budget-friendly earbuds, the TaoTronics Boltune-Super Lightweight Wireless Earbuds might be just what you’re looking for. The ease of use is unbeatable- simply open the charging case and pop the earbuds back in, and they’ll pair with your device or power off. These in-ear headphones boast highly sensitive diaphragms and immersive stereo sound that minimize signal loss. Plus, with two microphones, you can expect crystal clear calls. What’s more, you can charge them quickly and enjoy up to 36 hours of listening and calling. With Bluetooth version 5.2 and an IPX8 waterproof rating, these earbuds are a steal.
Edifier TWS 330NB
If you’re on the hunt for a sleek-looking set of earbuds, the Edifier TWS 330NB should be on your list. These wireless earphones are designed with a stylish, all-black finish and connect to your devices using Bluetooth VA. They’re compatible with the iPhone X and later models, and while the touch controls are somewhat limited, you can customize them using the Edifier Connect app for iOS and Android devices. The app also allows you to adjust the touch sensitivity level to your liking. The earbuds come with two charges and have an IPX4 protection rating, making them splash- and dust-proof. With noise cancellation turned on, expect around four to five hours of battery life at moderate volume levels. Overall, the Edifier TWS 330NB is an excellent choice for anyone who wants great sound quality paired with sleek design and easy connectivity.
Sony WF-1000XM4
The Sony WF-1000XM4 is a top-of-the-line pair of Bluetooth headphones that offer a fantastic audio experience. With a nifty IPX4 rating and the ability to support voice assistants, these earbuds are ideal for life on-the-go. The headphones connect to the app, allowing the user to customize the experience with options such as a fit test and touch control remapping. The sound signature may be a little unusual, but the overall quality is undeniably impressive. With a commendable battery life of up to 7 hours and 43 minutes, and an additional 24 hours from the charging case, these headphones are sure to deliver on quality. Additionally, Bluetooth 5.2 capabilities mean that these earbuds can play all required codecs in the stack, including LE audio. For anyone in need of a high-quality and customizable listening experience, the Sony WF-1000XM4 is a must-have.
Earfun Air Pro 2
Looking for a low-priced true-wireless earbud with excellent active noise cancellation and a great sound? Look no further than the Earfun Air Pro 2. This model offers a few unique features, such as a sensor that pauses your music when you remove the buds from your ears. The earbuds come with both USB-C and wireless charging capabilities and are even splash-proof with a waterproof rating of IPX5. With up to seven hours of battery life on a single charge, you can enjoy your music all day long at moderate volume levels. Plus, transparent mode allows sounds from the outside world to seep through for safe listening on the go.
Beats Powerbeats Pro
The Beats Powerbeats Pro are the ultimate true wireless headphones for those who value longevity. Clocking in at an impressive 10 hours of battery life on both Android and iOS, these headphones will last you a cross-country flight with ease. While they may not provide ample isolation for in-flight entertainment, they excel in a different arena entirely. The Powerbeats Pro’s hook design ensures that the buds stay secure in your ears, making them the perfect workout companion, even when you’re hitting high intensity intervals. Plus, their IPX4 rating ensures they remain water-resistant, ideal for even the sweatiest of workouts. With a multitude of added features including personalized bass and treble boosts, they’re definitely worth the investment. Pairing them to your device is a seamless process, and the connection quality is unparalleled, ensuring a disruption-free workout experience.
Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro
For those in the market for wireless earbuds, the Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro is definitely worth considering. Equipped with Bluetooth 5.0, this model boasts better sound quality than Apple AirPods, especially for Samsung phone users. But these buds aren’t exclusive to Samsung devices, as iPhone and Android users can also take advantage of the AAC codec. What’s even more impressive is the seamless switching ability between devices—that means no more time wasted trying to connect different devices to your earbuds. And if you’re a Samsung user who loves Bixby, the Galaxy Wearable app allows you to use voice-activated Bixby with the earbuds. But let’s not forget about the most important feature: durability. With an IPX7 certification, this set of Samsung Galaxy Buds is the most durable to date. And with a grand total of 13 hours of playtime, you can bop and groove to your favorite tunes for hours on end.