Expert Rankings & Top Picks for 2025

Leading tech reviewers agree on a handful of standout earbuds in 2025. According to Yahoo Tech (CNET), Apple AirPods Pro 2, Sony WF-1000XM5, and Technics EAH-AZ100 currently sit at the top of many “best earbuds” lists. Our team’s top-5 picks (based on value, quality, and category performance) are highlighted below:

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) – Apple’s flagship earbuds with premium active noise cancellation (ANC) and seamless iPhone integration. The 2nd-gen AirPods Pro use Apple’s H2 chip for instant pairing and improved ANC that rivals the very best (they can block noise as well as Bose and Jabra’s top models). They’re now rated IP54 dust/water resistant, so they withstand sweat and light rain. For Apple users, features like Personalized Spatial Audio and the U1-equipped MagSafe case (Find My tracking) are big bonuses. (Consumer feedback: Thousands of owners give AirPods Pro 2 high marks for clear sound and comfort, noting the ANC is “really good” on loud commutes.)

JBL Wave Buds – An affordable all-rounder with JBL’s signature bass-forward sound and a secure, comfortable fit. The Wave Buds boast 8 hours of listening on a charge plus 24 extra from the case (32 h total) – plenty for all-day use. They lack ANC, but JBL’s Smart Ambient mode lets you hear surroundings or have quick chats without removing the earbuds. IP54 splash resistance and a lightweight design make them great for workouts or commuting. (Consumer feedback: “Long battery life and great value.”)

TOZO NC9 Hybrid ANC – A budget noise-cancelling champ that punches above its price. Under-$60, hybrid ANC and an impressively huge battery: up to 59 hours total (10 h per charge, 42 h with ANC on). IPX8 waterproofing means they can survive sweat, rain, even a dunk. Audio is “clear highs & solid bass,” tweakable via the app EQ. One caveat: build quality isn’t top-tier, but overall the NC9’s features are outstanding for the price.

Soundcore by Anker A20i – Ultra-budget true wireless earbuds for daily casual use. Despite the ~$30 price, they deliver lively, bass-rich sound and about 9 hours per charge (28 h with case). Lightweight, comfortable, IPX5 sweat resistant. No ANC, but an app offers EQ and AI-enhanced call clarity. Reviewers say it “punches above its weight.”

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II – For those who demand the very best ANC. They “block outside sounds with impressive precision,” dramatically reducing everything from low rumbles to sudden loud sounds. Multiple ear-tip/stability-band sizes ensure comfort. About 6 h per charge (24 h with case). Pricier, but frequent travelers swear by them. Bose’s newer QC Ultra adds spatial audio and new colours.