Best Air Buds in 2025

The Sony WF-1000XM5 sets the benchmark for true wireless earbuds, particularly in its active noise cancellation capabilities, which our analysis consistently shows as superior to competitors. This makes them an ideal choice for frequent travelers, commuters, or anyone seeking solace from noisy environments. Beyond their ANC prowess, these earbuds deliver an incredibly detailed and expansive sound profile, catering to audiophiles and casual listeners alike. Thanks to the new Dynamic Driver X, the bass is resonant, and the highs are crisp without being fatiguing. While the previous generation was a bit bulky, Sony has significantly refined the design, making the XM5s more compact and comfortable for extended wear. The call quality has also seen a substantial improvement, crucial for professional use. The main considerations for potential buyers are the higher price tag and their moderate IPX4 water resistance, which means they're suitable for light rain or splashes but not intense workouts.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) are undeniably the best choice for users deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem. The seamless pairing, automatic device switching, and spatial audio features create an unmatched user experience within Apple's walled garden. Our data indicates that their active noise cancellation ranks among the top, effectively silencing ambient noise, while the transparency mode is remarkably natural, allowing users to stay aware of their surroundings without removing the earbuds. The upgraded H2 chip and new audio algorithms deliver a richer, more detailed sound compared to previous generations. The Adaptive Audio feature dynamically blends Transparency Mode with Active Noise Cancellation based on your environment, which is a significant advancement. While the price is premium, the overall package of features, integration, and performance justifies it for Apple users. However, Android users will find some limitations in functionality and customization, and the in-ear fit, while good, might not suit everyone.

If your primary goal is to achieve an unparalleled level of silence, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II are the definitive choice. Extensive testing and user feedback consistently highlight their active noise cancellation as superior, even surpassing the excellent ANC of the Sony WF-1000XM5 in certain frequency ranges. Bose's proprietary CustomTune technology optimizes both ANC and sound performance to the unique shape of your ear canal, resulting in a more personalized and effective experience. The sound quality is dynamic and engaging, providing a rich and detailed listening experience across genres. Comfort is also a strong suit, with Bose's ear tips and stability bands offering a secure yet gentle fit. The main drawbacks are the somewhat limited battery life relative to some competitors and the bulkier charging case, making them slightly less pocket-friendly. Despite these minor issues, for those who prioritize peace and quiet above all else, these are an outstanding option.

For fitness enthusiasts and adventurers who demand ultimate durability and performance in challenging conditions, the Jabra Elite 8 Active stands out. Our analysis confirms their IP68 rating for the earbuds, making them virtually dustproof, sweatproof, and waterproof – capable of submersion without issue. This, combined with their ShakeGrip coating, ensures an incredibly secure and comfortable fit during even the most vigorous activities, making them ideal for running, cycling, or gym workouts. The sound quality is robust, with a powerful bass response that energizes workouts, though it can be adjusted via the Jabra Sound+ app. The adaptive hybrid ANC effectively mutes most gym noise or street traffic, providing a focused listening experience, although it doesn't quite reach the top tier of dedicated ANC headphones. Their battery life is commendable, supporting long sessions. The only minor quibble is that the charging case is IP54 rated, slightly less resilient than the earbuds themselves.

The Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro are a compelling option for those within the Samsung ecosystem, offering a premium audio experience tailored for Galaxy devices. These earbuds deliver 24-bit Hi-Fi sound when paired with compatible Samsung phones, providing exceptional audio clarity and richness that stands out in its class. The active noise cancellation is remarkably effective, rivaling some of the best on the market, creating a serene listening environment. Their design is notably compact and lightweight, contributing to a very comfortable fit for extended periods. Seamless integration features like Auto Switch between Samsung devices and intuitive controls enhance the user experience for Galaxy owners. While they are competent as standalone earbuds for any Android user, the full suite of advanced features, including the high-resolution audio codec, is exclusive to Samsung Galaxy smartphones. Battery life is decent but not class-leading, and some users might find the touch controls overly sensitive at times.

The Nothing Ear (2) stands out as an exceptional value proposition, offering a premium experience at a more accessible price point than many competitors. Their most distinctive feature is the transparent design, which showcases the internal components, giving them a unique aesthetic appeal. Beyond looks, these earbuds deliver a surprisingly punchy and detailed sound, with 11.6mm dynamic drivers providing a rich audio experience that can be further tailored through Nothing's intuitive companion app. The active noise cancellation is quite effective, capable of muting a significant amount of ambient noise up to 40dB, making them suitable for most daily commutes or office environments – though it doesn't quite reach the absolute peak performance of Sony or Bose. Battery life is decent, especially with the charging case, which extends total listening time considerably. While the transparent design isn't for everyone, for those who appreciate innovative aesthetics and robust performance without breaking the bank, the Nothing Ear (2) is a compelling choice.