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 (better than the previous IPX4), so they withstand sweat and light rain. For Apple users, features like Personalized Spatial Audio and the U1-equipped MagSafe case (for 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 hours from the case (32h total) – plenty for all-day use. They lack ANC, but JBL’s Smart Ambient mode lets you hear your surroundings (Ambient Aware) or have quick chats (TalkThru) without removing the earbuds. With an IP54 rating (dust and splash resistant) and a lightweight design, they’re great for workouts or commuting on a budget. (Consumer feedback: Listeners praise the Wave Buds’ “long battery life and value for money,” and find them comfortable for hours of wear.)
TOZO NC9 Hybrid ANC – A budget noise-cancelling champ that punches above its price. These under-$60 earbuds include hybrid ANC (active noise canceling via multiple mics) and an impressively huge battery: up to 59 hours of total playtime with the case (around 10h per charge, 42h with ANC on). They’re IPX8 waterproof, meaning they can survive sweat, rain, or even a dunk in water. Users are often surprised by the solid audio quality – “clear highs and solid bass” – which you can further tweak via the app’s EQ. One caveat: build quality isn’t top-tier (a few users report durability issues), but overall the NC9 offers outstanding features for the price.
Soundcore by Anker A20i – Ultra-budget true wireless earbuds ideal for daily casual use. Despite a low ~$30 price, the Soundcore A20i deliver lively, bass-rich sound and outstanding battery life (about 9 hours on a single charge, plus 3 extra charges from the case, for ~28h total). They are lightweight and comfortable, with IPX5 water resistance to handle sweat and light rain. There’s no ANC at this price, but the A20i does have a companion app for EQ customization and even boasts AI-enhanced call clarity. Reviewers call the A20i “one of the most fun basic wireless earbuds on a budget,” noting its entertaining bass and reliable connection. (Consumer feedback: Many buyers are impressed with its quality relative to cost, often commenting it “punches above its weight” in sound.)
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II – If noise cancellation is your top priority, Bose’s QC Earbuds II are still among the best ANC earbuds available. They effectively “block outside sounds with impressive precision,” dramatically reducing everything from low rumbles to sudden loud sounds. Bose’s fit kit (with multiple ear tip and stability band sizes) ensures a comfy, secure fit that maximizes passive isolation too. Sound quality is rich and well-balanced, and you get about 6 hours per charge (24h with case). These earbuds are pricier than others, but for frequent travelers or commuters they’re a godsend. (Bose even released a QuietComfort Ultra version with similar design, added spatial audio, and new colors.) In short, QC Earbuds II offer “class-leading noise cancellation and comfort,” making them worth it for those who demand peace and quiet on the go.