10 Best Ear Earbuds 2025 in the United States

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are a solid choice for those seeking premium wireless earbuds. They excel in sound quality, thanks to the Apple H2 chip that delivers high-fidelity audio with crisp highs and rich bass. The active noise cancellation feature is highly effective, capable of reducing background noise significantly, while the transparency mode allows you to hear your surroundings when necessary. These earbuds also offer personalized spatial audio, which can adapt to your unique ear shape for an immersive listening experience.

The fit and comfort are well addressed, with four sizes of silicone tips included to ensure a secure and comfortable fit for a variety of ear shapes. This makes them suitable for extended wear without discomfort. Battery life is decent, with up to 6 hours of listening time and 30 hours with the charging case, though heavy users might wish for a bit more longevity. The earbuds are also dust, sweat, and water-resistant (IP54), making them durable enough for workouts and light rain. Connectivity is seamless with Bluetooth 5.3, and the touch controls are intuitive, allowing easy management of playback and calls. Siri integration adds convenience with voice commands.

One of the standout features is the pioneering hearing aid capabilities, including a hearing test and active hearing protection, which can be beneficial for users with hearing concerns. However, the price point is on the higher side, which might be a drawback for budget-conscious buyers. Additionally, while the USB-C charging is modern and widely compatible, some users might miss the older Lightning port if they have invested in those accessories. The Apple AirPods Pro 2 offer a comprehensive package of advanced features, making them ideal for users who prioritize high-quality audio, noise cancellation, and comfort, despite the higher price tag.

Apple AirPods 4 are a strong contender in the wireless earbud market, particularly for users in the Apple ecosystem. They boast improved sound quality with features like personalized spatial audio and dynamic head tracking, offering an immersive listening experience. The H2 chip enhances voice isolation for clearer calls and reduces background noise effectively.

Fit and comfort have been a priority in their design, with a refined contour and shorter stem, making them suitable for extended wear. Controls are intuitive, with quick-press options for media and calls, and the inclusion of Siri interactions adds convenience. Battery life is satisfactory, providing up to 30 hours of listening time with the charging case, although individual usage on a single charge is around 5 hours.

The redesigned USB-C charging case is smaller and easier to carry. These earbuds are rated IP54 for dust, sweat, and water resistance, making them durable for various activities including workouts and outdoor use. Connectivity is seamless, especially with iPhones, thanks to Bluetooth 5.3 technology. However, the price may be a drawback for some users, as Apple products tend to be on the higher end of the market. Additionally, while the sound quality and noise cancellation are impressive, some users may prefer other brands that offer similar features at a lower price point. The lack of included USB-C charge cable may also be inconvenient. Nevertheless, for Apple users seeking high-quality earbuds with a range of smart features and reliable performance, AirPods 4 are worth considering.

The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds offer a distinct open-ear design that lets you stay aware of your surroundings while still enjoying your music. This feature is great if you want to hear ambient sounds, like traffic or conversations, making them suitable for outdoor activities like running or cycling. Sound quality is enhanced by Bose’s OpenAudio and Immersive Audio technologies, providing clear and spacious audio, though the lack of traditional noise cancellation means outside noise isn’t blocked out. Comfort is a strong suit with their lightweight, clip-on style that stays secure without feeling tight, ideal for long listening sessions.

Battery life is decent, offering up to 7 hours of playtime on a single charge and up to 48 hours when including the charging case, which is handy for all-day use. The earbuds support Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint connectivity, so switching between devices like your phone and laptop is smooth. Controls are straightforward with physical buttons and app support for updates and additional features.

They come with an IPX4 rating, meaning they resist splashes and sweat but aren’t fully waterproof, so they can handle workouts and light rain but not full water exposure. One downside is the absence of active noise cancellation, which might be a drawback if you want to block out noisy environments. Price-wise, these earbuds are positioned at a premium level, reflecting Bose’s reputation and technology. If you want earbuds that keep you aware of your environment without isolating you, with solid sound and comfort for active use, the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds are a strong choice. However, if noise cancellation or deep water resistance is a priority, you might want to consider other options.