10 Best Earbuds 2025 in the United States

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are a standout option in the earbuds category, particularly for users seeking premium sound quality and advanced features. One of their key strengths is the active noise cancellation, which effectively blocks out background noise, making them ideal for commuting or busy environments. The Transparency mode is a welcome feature that allows users to remain aware of their surroundings, perfect for outdoor activities.

Comfort is also a priority, as the earbuds come with multiple silicone tips to fit various ear shapes, ensuring a snug and secure fit. With a battery life of up to 6 hours on a single charge and a total of 30 hours with the charging case, they are well-suited for long listening sessions without frequent recharging.

Their sound quality is impressive, thanks to the custom Apple-designed H2 chip that enhances audio clarity and depth. The AirPods also include features like personalized spatial audio, which can elevate the listening experience, particularly for movies and music. Durability-wise, the IP54 rating means they are resistant to dust and sweat, making them suitable for workouts or outdoor use. However, they are not fully waterproof, so caution is needed around water.

The Apple AirPods 4 are a solid choice in the earbud category, especially for users deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem. One of the standout features is their impressive sound quality, enhanced by the H2 chip, which also improves call quality through voice isolation. The personalized spatial audio creates an immersive listening experience, making them great for music, movies, and gaming. Battery life is commendable; you can get up to 5 hours on a single charge, and with the charging case, you can enjoy up to 30 hours total. The redesigned case now includes USB-C for convenient charging.

Comfort is another plus, as the AirPods 4 have been rebuilt for a better fit, making them suitable for long listening sessions. They're also dust, sweat, and water-resistant (IP54), which adds durability for active users or those who might use them during workouts.

While they excel in various areas, they lack active noise cancellation, which might be a drawback for those looking for complete immersion in noisy environments. The touch controls, while intuitive, might take some getting used to, especially for users who prefer physical buttons. Additionally, the price point may be higher than some competing earbuds, making them less accessible for budget-conscious consumers.

The Apple EarPods Headphones with Lightning Connector offer several strengths and some notable drawbacks. Their design is tailored to the geometry of the ear, providing superior comfort for many users compared to traditional circular earbuds. The high-quality audio output ensures a pleasant listening experience, with engineered speakers that maximize sound and minimize loss. The built-in remote is a convenient feature, allowing users to control volume, playback, and phone calls easily without reaching for their device.

Compatibility is a strong point, as these EarPods work seamlessly with devices that have a Lightning connector and support iOS 10 or later, including iPhones, iPads, and iPods. The integrated microphone captures voice clearly, enhancing phone calls, FaceTime, and Siri interactions. However, there are some downsides. Battery life is not a concern for these wired EarPods, but the lack of noise cancellation may be a drawback for users seeking an immersive audio experience. Additionally, they are not water-resistant, which limits their use during workouts or in wet conditions.

While the wired connectivity ensures stable and hassle-free use, it might be less convenient for users accustomed to wireless earbuds. The price point is reasonable given the brand and features, but the absence of advanced features like wireless connectivity and active noise cancellation might deter some potential buyers. The Apple EarPods with Lightning Connector are best suited for users who prioritize comfort, sound quality, and seamless integration with Apple devices over more advanced features like noise cancellation and water resistance.