Explore top alternatives to Apple AirPods, comparing features, affordability, and performance.
Tired of the same old Apple AirPods? You’re not alone! While they’re a popular choice, there are tons of amazing wireless earbuds out there that offer similar quality, features, and comfort at a better price.
In this article, we’re diving deep into the world of AirPods alternatives, showcasing the best of the best across different price points and categories. Whether you’re looking for premium sound quality, noise cancellation, long battery life, or a sleek and stylish design, we’ve got you covered.
We’ve carefully curated a list of 18 exceptional AirPods alternatives, each chosen for their unique strengths and ability to deliver an exceptional listening experience. From established audiophile brands to rising stars in the wireless earbud market, you’ll find a pair of earbuds that perfectly suit your needs and preferences.
So, get ready to explore a world of sonic possibilities beyond the familiar Apple ecosystem. With our comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to find the perfect pair of wireless earbuds to elevate your listening experience.
QUICKLIST | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Item | Image | Where to buy | Rating | Read More | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Sony WF-1000XM4 | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Jabra Elite 7 Pro | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Beats Fit Pro | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Google Pixel Buds Pro | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
OnePlus Buds Pro 2 | 4.2 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Anker Soundcore Liberty 3 Pro | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cambridge Audio Melomania Touch | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro
A premium option from Samsung that offers a comfortable fit, active noise cancellation, and a sleek design.
Specifications :
- Driver size: 10mm woofer, 6.5mm tweeter
- Battery life: Up to 5 hours with ANC on, up to 18 hours with charging case
- Water resistance: IPX7 (waterproof)
- Features: Active noise cancellation, transparency mode, wireless charging, Samsung Galaxy ecosystem integration
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent audio quality with clear highs and deep bass
- Comfortable fit with multiple ear tip sizes
- Effective active noise cancellation
- Intuitive controls
- Sleek and stylish design
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be expensive compared to some other alternatives
- Not as good at noise cancellation as some competitors
- Not compatible with iOS devices
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You want a premium pair of earbuds with great audio quality and active noise cancellation
- You own a Samsung Galaxy phone or tablet
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You need the absolute best noise cancellation
- You use an iOS device
Bottom Line:
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro are a fantastic choice for Android users looking for a premium audio experience. They offer great sound, effective noise cancellation, and a comfortable fit. However, they are a bit expensive compared to some other options and may not be the best choice for iOS users or those looking for the absolute best noise cancellation.
Sony WF-1000XM4
Sony's flagship true wireless earbuds are known for their exceptional noise cancellation and rich audio quality.
Specifications :
- Driver size: 6mm
- Battery life: Up to 8 hours with ANC on, up to 24 hours with charging case
- Water resistance: IPX4 (splashproof)
- Features: Active noise cancellation, transparency mode, LDAC support, touch controls
Reasons to buy :
- Industry-leading active noise cancellation
- Excellent audio quality with a balanced sound signature
- Comfortable fit with multiple ear tip sizes
- Long battery life
- Intuitive touch controls
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be expensive
- Not as compact as some other earbuds
- Not the most stylish design
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You prioritize noise cancellation above all else
- You want a pair of earbuds with excellent audio quality
- You're willing to pay a premium price
Don't buy it if:
- You need earbuds with a compact design
- You're on a tight budget
- You want a more stylish look
Bottom Line:
The Sony WF-1000XM4 are a top choice for those seeking the best noise cancellation on the market. They boast exceptional audio quality, a comfortable fit, and a long battery life. However, they come with a hefty price tag and may not be the most compact or stylish option.
Jabra Elite 7 Pro
Jabra's Elite 7 Pro earbuds deliver a balanced sound experience, excellent active noise cancellation, and a secure fit.
Specifications :
- Driver size: 6.5mm
- Battery life: Up to 8 hours with ANC on, up to 30 hours with charging case
- Water resistance: IP57 (dust and water resistant)
- Features: Active noise cancellation, transparency mode, customizable controls, multipoint connection
Reasons to buy :
- Balanced audio quality with a clear and detailed sound signature
- Effective active noise cancellation
- Comfortable and secure fit with multiple ear tip sizes
- Long battery life
- Excellent call quality
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be expensive
- Not as bass-heavy as some other earbuds
- Not the best for working out
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You want a pair of earbuds with balanced audio quality and good noise cancellation
- You need a comfortable and secure fit
- You value call quality
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You prefer a bass-heavy sound signature
- You want earbuds that are specifically designed for working out
Bottom Line:
The Jabra Elite 7 Pro are a solid option for those looking for a pair of earbuds with balanced audio quality, good noise cancellation, and a comfortable fit. They also offer long battery life and excellent call quality. However, they are not the cheapest option and may not be the best choice for those seeking a bass-heavy sound signature or specifically designed for working out.
Beats Fit Pro
Beats Fit Pro earbuds are designed for a secure fit during workouts, thanks to their ear hooks and flexible wingtips.
Specifications :
- Driver size: 10mm
- Battery life: Up to 6 hours with ANC on, up to 27 hours with charging case
- Water resistance: IPX4 (splashproof)
- Features: Active noise cancellation, transparency mode, Apple H1 chip, integrated fitness tracker
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent fit for workouts with ear hooks and wingtips
- Powerful bass and a fun sound signature
- Effective active noise cancellation
- Apple H1 chip for seamless integration with Apple devices
- Integrated fitness tracker
Reasons to avoid :
- Not the best for passive noise cancellation
- Can be expensive
- Not as comfortable for everyday use as some other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You want a pair of earbuds that are secure during workouts
- You prefer a bass-heavy sound signature
- You use Apple devices
Don't buy it if:
- You prioritize passive noise cancellation
- You're on a tight budget
- You want earbuds that are comfortable for everyday use
Bottom Line:
The Beats Fit Pro are a great choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts who need a pair of earbuds that stay securely in their ears. They offer a powerful bass-heavy sound signature, effective active noise cancellation, and seamless integration with Apple devices. However, they may not be the most comfortable for everyday use and can be expensive compared to some other options.
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3
Sennheiser's Momentum True Wireless 3 earbuds are known for their premium sound quality and stylish design.
Specifications :
- Driver size: 7mm
- Battery life: Up to 7 hours with ANC on, up to 28 hours with charging case
- Water resistance: IPX4 (splashproof)
- Features: Active noise cancellation, transparency mode, customizable controls, aptX Adaptive support
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent audio quality with a balanced and detailed sound signature
- Comfortable and stylish design
- Effective active noise cancellation
- Good call quality
- Customizable controls
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be expensive
- Not as bass-heavy as some other earbuds
- Not the best fit for everyone
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You prioritize audio quality and design
- You want a pair of earbuds with effective noise cancellation
- You want customizable controls
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You prefer a bass-heavy sound signature
- You need earbuds with a secure fit for workouts
Bottom Line:
The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 are a premium pair of earbuds that offer excellent audio quality, stylish design, and effective noise cancellation. They are a great choice for those who prioritize sound quality and design, but may not be the best fit for everyone due to their higher price and less secure fit for workouts.
Read more on 20 Best Apple AirPods for Small Ears
Google Pixel Buds Pro
Google's Pixel Buds Pro offer a comfortable fit, great active noise cancellation, and seamless integration with Google Assistant.
Specifications :
- Driver size: 11mm
- Battery life: Up to 7 hours with ANC on, up to 31 hours with charging case
- Water resistance: IPX4 (splashproof)
- Features: Active noise cancellation, transparency mode, Google Assistant integration, fast pairing with Android devices
Reasons to buy :
- Comfortable fit with multiple ear tip sizes
- Effective active noise cancellation
- Excellent integration with Google Assistant
- Fast pairing with Android devices
- Good call quality
Reasons to avoid :
- Not the best for working out
- Can be expensive
- Not as good at noise cancellation as some competitors
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You use an Android phone and want a pair of earbuds that seamlessly integrate with Google Assistant
- You need a pair of earbuds with effective noise cancellation and a comfortable fit
- You want a pair of earbuds with good call quality
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You need earbuds that are specifically designed for working out
- You want the absolute best noise cancellation
Bottom Line:
The Google Pixel Buds Pro are a great choice for Android users who want a pair of earbuds with comfortable fit, effective noise cancellation, and seamless integration with Google Assistant. They offer good call quality and fast pairing with Android devices. However, they are not the best for working out and may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget or looking for the absolute best noise cancellation.
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds
Bose's QuietComfort Earbuds are known for their powerful noise cancellation and comfortable fit.
Specifications :
- Driver size: 6.5mm
- Battery life: Up to 6 hours with ANC on, up to 18 hours with charging case
- Water resistance: IPX4 (splashproof)
- Features: Active noise cancellation, transparency mode, customizable controls, Bose Music app integration
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent active noise cancellation
- Comfortable fit with multiple ear tip sizes
- Good audio quality with a balanced sound signature
- Customizable controls
- Bose Music app integration
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be expensive
- Not as stylish as some other earbuds
- Not the best for working out
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You prioritize noise cancellation above all else
- You want a pair of earbuds with a comfortable fit
- You want customizable controls
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You want earbuds that are specifically designed for working out
- You want a more stylish design
Bottom Line:
The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds are a great choice for those seeking powerful noise cancellation and a comfortable fit. They offer good audio quality and customizable controls. However, they are expensive, not the most stylish, and not the best option for working out.
OnePlus Buds Pro 2
OnePlus Buds Pro 2 offer a balanced sound signature, effective noise cancellation, and a sleek design.
Specifications :
- Driver size: 11mm
- Battery life: Up to 9 hours with ANC on, up to 39 hours with charging case
- Water resistance: IP55 (dust and water resistant)
- Features: Active noise cancellation, transparency mode, customizable controls, spatial audio, fast charging
Reasons to buy :
- Balanced audio quality with a clear and detailed sound signature
- Effective active noise cancellation
- Comfortable fit with multiple ear tip sizes
- Long battery life
- Sleek and stylish design
- Spatial audio support for immersive sound
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as bass-heavy as some other earbuds
- Not the best for working out
- Not the most affordable option
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You want a pair of earbuds with balanced audio quality and good noise cancellation
- You need a comfortable and stylish fit
- You want long battery life and fast charging
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You prefer a bass-heavy sound signature
- You want earbuds that are specifically designed for working out
Bottom Line:
The OnePlus Buds Pro 2 are a solid option for those looking for a pair of earbuds with balanced audio quality, good noise cancellation, and a comfortable fit. They offer long battery life, fast charging, and a sleek design. However, they are not the cheapest option and may not be the best choice for those seeking a bass-heavy sound signature or specifically designed for working out.
Anker Soundcore Liberty 3 Pro
Anker Soundcore Liberty 3 Pro earbuds offer exceptional audio quality with a customizable sound profile and a comfortable fit.
Specifications :
- Driver size: 11mm
- Battery life: Up to 8 hours with ANC on, up to 32 hours with charging case
- Water resistance: IPX4 (splashproof)
- Features: Active noise cancellation, transparency mode, customizable EQ, HearID sound personalization
Reasons to buy :
- Exceptional audio quality with a detailed and customizable sound profile
- Comfortable fit with multiple ear tip sizes
- Effective active noise cancellation
- Long battery life
- HearID sound personalization for a customized listening experience
Reasons to avoid :
- Not the most stylish design
- Not the best for working out
- Can be expensive
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You prioritize audio quality and want a customizable sound profile
- You need a pair of earbuds with effective noise cancellation and a comfortable fit
- You want long battery life and a personalized listening experience
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You want earbuds that are specifically designed for working out
- You want a more stylish design
Bottom Line:
The Anker Soundcore Liberty 3 Pro are a great choice for audiophiles seeking exceptional sound quality with a customizable sound profile. They offer effective noise cancellation, a comfortable fit, and long battery life. However, they are not the most stylish earbuds and may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget or looking for earbuds specifically designed for working out.
Cambridge Audio Melomania Touch
Cambridge Audio Melomania Touch earbuds offer a premium audio experience with a long battery life and a compact design.
Read more on 28 Best Apple AirPods Max Dupes
Specifications :
- Driver size: 5.8mm
- Battery life: Up to 9 hours with ANC on, up to 45 hours with charging case
- Water resistance: IPX5 (splashproof)
- Features: Active noise cancellation, transparency mode, aptX Adaptive support, touch controls
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent audio quality with a detailed and balanced sound signature
- Long battery life
- Compact and lightweight design
- Intuitive touch controls
- Affordable price
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as effective at noise cancellation as some competitors
- Not the best fit for working out
- No wireless charging
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You want a pair of earbuds with excellent audio quality and long battery life
- You need a compact and lightweight design
- You're on a budget
Don't buy it if:
- You prioritize noise cancellation above all else
- You need earbuds that are specifically designed for working out
- You want wireless charging
Bottom Line:
The Cambridge Audio Melomania Touch are a great choice for those seeking a pair of earbuds with excellent audio quality and long battery life at an affordable price. They offer a compact and lightweight design and intuitive touch controls. However, they may not be the best choice for those who prioritize noise cancellation, need earbuds specifically designed for working out, or want wireless charging.
JBL Tour One
JBL's flagship noise-canceling headphones.
Specifications :
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Bluetooth 5.0
- 25 hours of battery life with ANC
- 40 hours of battery life without ANC
- 10mm dynamic drivers
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent sound quality
- Powerful ANC
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Long battery life
Reasons to avoid :
- Expensive
- Bulky
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You want the best possible sound quality and noise cancellation
- You are willing to pay a premium price
- You need long battery life
Don't buy it if:
- You are on a budget
- You prefer a smaller and more portable headphone
Bottom Line:
The JBL Tour One are a great choice for anyone looking for the best possible sound quality and noise cancellation. They have a comfortable and secure fit and offer long battery life. However, they are expensive and bulky.
Shokz OpenRun Pro
Bone conduction headphones that allow you to hear your surroundings while listening to music.
Explore further with 18 Best Apple AirPods Pro 2 Case
Specifications :
- Bone conduction technology
- Bluetooth 5.1
- 8 hours of battery life
- IP67 water resistance
Reasons to buy :
- Open-ear design allows you to hear your surroundings
- Secure fit
- Good sound quality for bone conduction headphones
- Water and sweat resistant
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as good sound quality as traditional headphones
- Can be uncomfortable for some people
- Not ideal for use in noisy environments
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You want to be aware of your surroundings while listening to music
- You are looking for a secure fit
- You are active and need headphones that are water and sweat resistant
Don't buy it if:
- You want the best possible sound quality
- You are sensitive to bone conduction sound
- You need headphones for use in very noisy environments
Bottom Line:
The Shokz OpenRun Pro are a great choice for anyone who wants to be aware of their surroundings while listening to music. They are secure and comfortable, and offer good sound quality for bone conduction headphones. However, they are not as good as traditional headphones in terms of sound quality and can be uncomfortable for some people. They are not ideal for use in very noisy environments.
EarFun Air Pro 2
A great value option with active noise cancellation and a comfortable fit.
Specifications :
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Transparency Mode
- Bluetooth 5.2
- 7 hours of battery life with ANC
- 28 hours of battery life with charging case
- 10mm dynamic drivers
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent sound quality for the price
- Effective noise cancellation
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Long battery life
Reasons to avoid :
- The charging case is a bit bulky
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You want a good balance of features and price
- You need good noise cancellation
- You value comfort and battery life
Don't buy it if:
- You want the absolute best sound quality
- You need a very compact charging case
Bottom Line:
The EarFun Air Pro 2 are a great value option for anyone looking for active noise cancellation and a comfortable fit. They offer excellent sound quality for the price and have long battery life. However, the charging case is a bit bulky.
SoundPEATS TrueAir2
A budget-friendly option with decent sound quality and a comfortable fit.
Specifications :
- Bluetooth 5.0
- 5 hours of battery life
- 30 hours of battery life with charging case
- 10mm dynamic drivers
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable
- Comfortable fit
- Decent sound quality for the price
Reasons to avoid :
- No noise cancellation
- Battery life is not as long as some other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You are on a tight budget
- You want a comfortable fit
- You need decent sound quality
Don't buy it if:
- You need noise cancellation
- You want the longest possible battery life
Bottom Line:
The SoundPEATS TrueAir2 are a good option for anyone looking for a budget-friendly pair of earbuds with a comfortable fit and decent sound quality. However, they don't offer noise cancellation and battery life is not as long as some other options.
Tribit FlyBuds 3
A good option for active users with a secure fit and IPX8 water resistance.
Specifications :
- Bluetooth 5.0
- 8 hours of battery life
- 32 hours of battery life with charging case
- IPX8 water resistance
Reasons to buy :
- Secure fit
- IPX8 water resistance
- Good sound quality for the price
Reasons to avoid :
- No noise cancellation
- The charging case is a bit bulky
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You are an active user and need headphones that are water resistant
- You want a secure fit
- You need good sound quality for the price
Don't buy it if:
- You need noise cancellation
- You want a very compact charging case
Bottom Line:
The Tribit FlyBuds 3 are a good choice for active users who need headphones that are water resistant and have a secure fit. They offer good sound quality for the price. However, they don't offer noise cancellation and the charging case is a bit bulky.
TOZO A1
A budget-friendly option with a long battery life and a comfortable fit.
Specifications :
- Bluetooth 5.0
- 10 hours of battery life
- 40 hours of battery life with charging case
- IPX8 water resistance
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable
- Long battery life
- Comfortable fit
- IPX8 water resistance
Reasons to avoid :
- No noise cancellation
- Sound quality is not as good as some other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You are on a tight budget
- You need a long battery life
- You want a comfortable fit
- You need headphones that are water resistant
Don't buy it if:
- You need noise cancellation
- You want the best possible sound quality
Bottom Line:
The TOZO A1 are a good option for anyone looking for a budget-friendly pair of earbuds with a long battery life, a comfortable fit, and water resistance. However, they don't offer noise cancellation and sound quality is not as good as some other options.
Anker Soundcore Life P3
A good option with active noise cancellation and a comfortable fit.
Specifications :
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Transparency Mode
- Bluetooth 5.0
- 7 hours of battery life with ANC
- 35 hours of battery life with charging case
- 11mm dynamic drivers
Reasons to buy :
- Good sound quality
- Effective noise cancellation
- Comfortable fit
- Long battery life
Reasons to avoid :
- The charging case is a bit bulky
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You want good sound quality and noise cancellation
- You value comfort and battery life
Don't buy it if:
- You want the absolute best sound quality
- You need a very compact charging case
Bottom Line:
The Anker Soundcore Life P3 are a good choice for anyone looking for active noise cancellation and a comfortable fit. They offer good sound quality and have long battery life. However, the charging case is a bit bulky.
JLab Go Air Pop
A budget-friendly option with a comfortable fit and a good battery life.
Specifications :
- Bluetooth 5.0
- 8 hours of battery life
- 32 hours of battery life with charging case
- 6mm dynamic drivers
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable
- Comfortable fit
- Long battery life
Reasons to avoid :
- No noise cancellation
- Sound quality is not as good as some other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You are on a tight budget
- You need a comfortable fit
- You need a long battery life
Don't buy it if:
- You need noise cancellation
- You want the best possible sound quality
Bottom Line:
The JLab Go Air Pop are a good option for anyone looking for a budget-friendly pair of earbuds with a comfortable fit and long battery life. However, they don't offer noise cancellation and sound quality is not as good as some other options.
Check this blog on 22 Best Apple AirPods Deals
Choosing the perfect pair of earbuds can feel like a daunting task, with so many options available. Luckily, our list of the 18 best Apple AirPods alternatives offers a diverse range of choices to suit every budget and preference. Whether you're seeking exceptional sound quality, a comfortable fit, or innovative features like noise cancellation, there's a pair of earbuds on this list that will elevate your listening experience.
From premium options like the Sony WF-1000XM4, renowned for their immersive sound and powerful noise cancellation, to budget-friendly picks like the JLab Go Air Pop, offering a surprisingly great audio experience at an affordable price, there's something for everyone. Don't limit yourself to just one brand. Explore the world of earbuds and discover the perfect pair that will enhance your music, podcasts, and calls.
Ultimately, the best Apple AirPods alternative for you depends on your individual needs and priorities. Consider your budget, desired features, and personal listening preferences to make an informed decision. We encourage you to explore the options on our list and find the perfect pair of earbuds that will become your trusted companions for all your audio adventures.
Read more about this on 14 Best Apple AirPods for Small Ears
No matter your choice, embrace the freedom and versatility that wireless earbuds offer, and immerse yourself in the rich world of audio. Happy listening!