We have previously posted plenty of articles showcasing the many wireless headphone models on the market, and today we're providing the pick of the litter as we judge the ten best wireless earbuds and headphones in 2024.
We've said it before, but we'll say it again; 'best' is very subjective. Your individual requirements as a buyer weigh in heavily on how you perceive an item.
We could review a thousand plausible overhead options with pristine audio, but they will be essentially useless solutions if you're after an in-ear model or have a budget that dictates the quality you can afford.
With this in mind, today's selections represent a wide range of options currently available to purchase. They all have different selling points that render them the best.
We have reviewed them as such. Our buyer's guide will be of vital support as you try to navigate your way through the over-saturated audio electronics market.
At a glance: Our top 3 picks
Bose QuietComfort 35 (Series II)
- 0 latency.
- First-rate noise canceling DSP.
- Very comfy to wear for long periods.
- Premium parts.
Mpow 059 Bluetooth
- 0 latency.
- First-rate noise canceling DSP.
- Very comfy to wear for long periods.
- Premium parts.
iJoy Matte Finish Premium Rechargeable
- 0 latency.
- First-rate noise canceling DSP.
- Very comfy to wear for long periods.
- Premium parts.
View The Best Wire Free Headphones Below
1. Bose QuietComfort 35 (Series II)
These wire-free Bose QuietComfort have been redesigned and have a few new bonus features to shout about.
They are a closed-back, over-ear headset with world-class cancellation on-board. The noise-cancelling is ensured by a triple-level guaranteed system, put in place by the cup choices, signal processes, and the noise rejection microphone. This covers all bases. It takes the listener from the real world, immersing them in a world of music.
We first encountered the QuietComfort series when we tested a range of budget gaming headset options, and while this set was not originally intended as a wireless gaming headset, it has gained a high degree of popularity among the ranks. This is because they not only provide audio clear of background interference, but they are a zero-latency option, ideal for lag-free conversations in real-time. This makes them a viable TeamSpeak option.
These true wireless earphones are very well built from premium grade components. They have luxurious, skin-friendly ear-cups to cater to longer sessions.
Their wireless is up-to-date, they can stream from the majority of Android devices, and can be used with Alexa and other voice-commanded assistants.
They have an impressive battery life of around 20 hours, which almost doubles when plugged in.
Pros:
+ 0 latency.
+ First-rate noise canceling DSP.
+ Very comfy to wear for long periods.
+ Premium parts.
Why We Liked It - The audio is exceptional. They are fully-immersive and built to last. They pack in some fantastic mod-cons and their noise cancellation properties are second to none.
2. Mpow 059 Bluetooth
Our second selection of the day is an innovative fold-away set from Mpow. They feature stainless steel sliders, which seem very strong. The mechanics of the folding is effortless and well-designed. This gives them an edge over their competitors, as they are, overall, far more compact. The ear-cups are closed-back and of an on-ear style, rather than your typical over-ear.
They are adequately cushioned for comfort, utilizing memory foam beneath a memory-protein leather skin. The engineered fabric is breathable and friendlier to the skin, helping to prevent your ears from getting too hot, or sweating.
The same foam cushioning is used on the underside of the headband itself, making them highly suitable for long periods of listening.
They feature easy-reach controls located on the cup itself and can be plugged in directly to your devices with their removable cable, or be paired easily via the built-in Bluetooth over a clean transmission, which even works free of interference at a distance of 30 feet.
We have looked at other Mpow earphones series, but this pair is optimized for bass enhancement. They feature a 40mm combination driver that employs state-of-the-art neodymium magnets and a modern CSR chip. They deliver full-range audio with exceptionally rich bass and fantastic dynamic nuances. They capably provide around 20 hours of listening when fully charged.
Pros:
+ Folding design.
+ Closed back.
+ Skin-friendly.
+ Enhanced bass performance drivers.
Why We Liked It - They are an innovative Bluetooth set. Their closed back nature makes them suitably immersive even without noise cancellation. This also relieves the batteries and allows them to provide double the hours of listening than their noise canceling focused competitors.
3. iJoy Matte Finish Premium Rechargeable
There's a lot to love about these over-ear earphones. They're great for someone looking for a pair of headphones for everyday use.
These earphones are made from premium materials to ensure the utmost comfort if you intend to wear them for a long time. The memory foam earmuffs are comfortable against your ears, and the adjustable headband pad is soft against the top of your head.
But it's the sound quality that stands out with these earphones - it's crystal clear.
These earphones are also noise-cancelling, which means no-one will interrupt your listening time.
Pros:
+ Folding design.
+ Comfortable.
+ Noise-cancelling.
+ Great sound quality.
4. Bose SoundLink
Now we are heading back to Bose for a second helping of their comfortably cushioned overhead wire-free options. Their SoundLink set, like QuietComfort, is also a second-gen model that benefits from a few upgrades and tweaks to its initial originators.
They are another pair that outperform the majority of their class. They serve up sonic honesty, true to the audio input. They feature the latest Bluetooth connectivity, which can securely connect to 2 simultaneous transmitting devices within a 30-foot range. They work for a generous 15 hours straight between charges.
This makes them another surprising travel headphone option, ideal for those who prefer pristine audio, and high-end creature comforts.
They are cushioned with premium, impact-resistant material and are far lighter than their first iteration, ensuring that portability and comfort are key.
They have superior drivers than their competitors (which have advanced crossover processing), Triport technology, and Active Equalization, which auto-adjusts according to the electrical signal as it goes to deliver the best sound possible.
They have easy-to-navigate, built-in controls, but can be adjusted remotely. They are donned with one of the most advanced headset mics we have encountered, which even provides an enhanced side-tone and sound that keeps your voice clear. The active noise cancellation wave processing rids received voices of interfering background sound. They are reasonably priced and come with a sleek carry case.
Pros:
+ High-end audio.
+ Upgraded model.
+ Sheer comfort.
+ Advanced mic.
+ Active noise cancellation.
Why We Liked It - They are another exemplary model from the experts at Bose Sound. They serve up superior comfort and audio and are a more affordable option than the impeccable quiet comfort set we have began todays reviews with.
5. COWIN E7 Pro
Another comfy headband set with decent audio capabilities is the E7 Pro model from COWIN. Despite being relatively new to the game, their earphone sets seem very well designed.
This pair is a new regeneration and has been upgraded to provide the latest Bluetooth, additional comfort, and are made with stronger but lighter weighted materials. They are a far more accessible option, priced comfortably below the 100 dollar mark.
The dynamic combination drivers work as a team, and the processing delegates the signal loads very efficiently. The audio has a good depth to it, the bass is ever-present in the mix, and the trebles are crisp.
These wireless earphones feature professional-level active noise cancellation and are closed-back, so audio is very enveloping, and the hands-free voice call function is pretty pristine. This is no surprise as the integrated microphone has seen a complete overhaul as well.
They come in a range of bright, trendy colors to choose from. The battery life is high-grade, providing a whopping 30 hours after a full recharge.
Pros:
+ Pro noise cancellation.
+ New and improved mic.
+ Affordable option.
+ Comfy fit.
+ 30 hours battery life.
Why We Liked It - These wire free earphones provide a great affordable alternative to some of the premium models we have looked at today, with active noise cancellation and a great battery life.
6. Apple Airpods Pro
If you haven't heard of Apple, you must have been living under a rock. It only makes sense that one of the industry's leading giants would make some of the best wireless earbuds you can get your hands on. And they don't disappoint.
The Apple Airpods Pro feature noise cancellation, which means you can immerse yourself completely in your sound, whether that's music, a Youtube video, a podcast, or an audiobook. However, these true wireless earbuds also feature a 'transparency mode,' so you can connect with the world.
Maybe the battery life on wireless earphones put you off. However, you don't need to worry about that with the Apple Airpods. The buds, combined with the charging case, deliver over 24 hours of battery life. This makes these wireless earbuds perfect if you commute, or spend long days in the office. You never have to worry about running out of battery life.
Concerned about these tiny babies falling out? Don't be - the Apple Airpods Pro come with three sizes of ear tips so you can find the best fit for you. They're soft and tapered, making them comfortable, regardless of how long you wear them.
On top of all that, these true wireless earbuds are water-resistant and sweatproof. So if you work out, then work out with the Airpods Pro, as they're some of the best true wireless earbuds you can get your hands on.
The only downside is that these Apple Airpods Pro only connect to Apple devices - sorry Android! If you're an Android user, maybe pick up a pair of Galaxy Buds instead. Galaxy buds offer the same great sound quality as these, making them some of the best true wireless earbuds on the market, as well. Get yourself a pair.
Pros:
+ Three ear tip sizes.
+ Over 24 hours of battery life with a charging case.
+ Noise cancellation.
+ Comfortable to wear.
Why We Liked It - It's no surprise that Apple makes some of the best true wireless earbuds on the market. The Airpods Pro are lightweight and comfortable. With their great sound quality and battery life, they're worth every penny. The only downside is that they only make them for Apple devices. If you're a Samsung user and want to splash some cash, check out the Galaxy buds.
7. Master & Dynamic MW07 True
Next up, we have an unbelievable in-ear wire-free headphone option, which are some of the best true wireless earbuds available.
They are a pair of independent true wireless earbuds which not only have a premium look, but a premium sound to go with it. Unfortunately, this does mean they have price-tag to reflect it, but their benefits really speak for themselves. Alternatively, there are some other true wireless sets available at lower prices.
These true wireless earphones feature powerful internal components built to last. They are a very sophisticated set bestowed with high-performance beryllium driven array, which delivers perfectly balanced audio with studio-quality (32 ohm impedance) dynamics - something which is practically unheard of in a true wireless earbud model.
They are decked out with some of the most advanced technical electrical engineering money can buy and have been manufactured practically to perfection.
These true wireless earphones come with 5 uniquely different ear-tips, and two pairs of silicone Fit Wings to provide a range of fits, each secure and skin-friendly.
The compact external parts of these earbuds are soundly built with strong acetate bodies, the Bluetooth is the newest version, and the advanced technology means they provide one of the clearest sound transmissions possible.
These true wireless earbuds are smart and intuitively controlled. They feature optical sensors that detect their position within the ear, enabling them to play and pause tracks when they placement changes. They come in 3 colors with a stainless steel wireless charging case, storing enough power for 3 charges on the go.
Pros:
+ Unbeatable quality.
+ Best audio in an earbud.
+ Intuitive controls.
+ Portable charger/carry-case for more battery life.
Why We Liked It - They are elegantly beautiful and functionally practical. Their construction is on another level entirely. The beryllium drivers are utilized in top-quality arrays for excellent sound. The charging case extends the battery life.
8. Mpow Flame IPX7
We're back over to another Mpow model, which has made our list as one of the best water-resistant sets on the market. They are a recently upgraded model which feature improved over ear hooks which are adjustable for better comfort.
They now fit much more snugly, and the re-positioning also ensure the speakers are in optimal position within your ear canal.
While not a true wireless pair of earbuds, they are an ideal sports option. This is not only because of their IPX-7 certification that renders them very water-resistant (and therefore sweat-proof too) but because they have hardened non-slip earbud tips that stay in place. The tips themselves are formed from memory foam, making them comfortable as they expand to the individuals' ears.
Comfort aside, they provide some serious sound, which is high-definition and full-range. The bass is better than on the previous version as the array design has received some attention during the revamp. It draws on some pretty extensive research and development from their higher-end sets and enables them to deliver more of a punch than was previously possible.
With all this quality and great price tag, these earbuds could give the Beats Powerbeats pro a run for their money.
Pros:
+ Competitive price.
+ High definition sound.
+ Impressive bass.
+ IPX-7 Water-resistant.
Why We Liked It - They have been really well-designed this time around. They provide a great audio solution. Despite all of their recent refinements, they still manage to undercut a lot of their fiercer competitors, such as the Beats Powerbeats Pro. If you want something that will give the Beats Powerbeats Pro a run for their money in terms of sound and design, get a pair of these wireless earbuds.
9. Wire-free Earbuds Bluetooth 5.0
The Jabra Elite 75t earbuds have been designed to be as comfortable as possible. They're compact and lightweight, so you'll hardly feel them in your ear. Their small and ergonomic design makes them suitable for all ear types and shapes.
These true wireless earbuds feature Jabra's 4th generation true wireless connection, which ensures that you'll always have a strong and stable Bluetooth 5.0 connection, without any skipping or audio dropouts. This is great if you intend to take any important, hands-free phone calls, as the Jabra Elite wireless buds offer the same type of security a wired set would.
These true wireless earbuds also come with the Jabra Sound+ app, where you can adjust your music to suit you.
The battery life on these true wireless buds is excellent, with 7.5 hours of listening time. They also come with a wireless charging case, which offers a whole 28 hours battery life. You can take these true wireless earphones out with you all day and rest assured that they will never run out of charge. That's what makes these some of the best true wireless earbuds available, good enough to rival the Airpods Pro, as mentioned above.
Pros:
+ Excellent wireless connection.
+ Comes with an app.
+ Charge on the go with the charging case.
+ True wireless earbuds - no wires at all.
+ Bluetooth 5.0.
Why We Liked It - If you're looking for something more high-end, these true wireless earbuds are an excellent choice. With great sound quality, an amazing battery life, and a secure Bluetooth connection, what more could you ask for? Pick up the Jabra Elite buds.
10. TOZO T10 TWS 5.0
We're leaving you with a final ear-bud option, which provides great value for money.
These true wireless earbuds store within a charging case for wireless charging as you travel.
They also feature adequately driven speakers which are 8mm and have enhanced circuitry to give them bass boosting capabilities. They are designed to fit well within the ear and cope with the motion of a busy modern lifestyle. They are constructed from a silicone gel which has a degree of flexibility. It's ergonomically angled within the ear canal in an optimal position.
These true wireless buds, too, are equipped with Bluetooth 5.0, rendering them highly stable and compatible with just about everything in modern production.
They pair in 2 facile steps and have adequate battery life. The charging case stores even more battery life, which makes them great for the commuter or avid traveler. They are water-resistant with a IPX-8 rating.
Pros:
+ Bluetooth 5.0.
+ Bass boost.
+ Budget independent earbuds.
+ Comes with a charging case for extra battery.
Why We Liked It - These are the best of the budget, solitary earbud options we have gotten a good look at. They are very watertight and while the bass boost feature is boasted about and in-arguably gives the low-end better impact, we just want to mention we were impressed with the clarity of the trebles too. Not to mention that battery life.
Wire-Free Headphones Buyers Guide
Today's buyer's guide is going to be a short and to the point. It's a rundown of what to prioritize in each different type of headphone, which will hopefully cover a range of uses and clarify characteristics to lean towards for the individual.
What To Look For When Buying Wire-free Headphones?
First things first, if you're after a wireless earphones, always opt for a recent version of Bluetooth as the compatibility will be far greater, and the transmission will ultimately be more stable.
If you don't need them to be wireless all the time, then you may want to consider the convenience (and extended battery life between charges) of a set with an optional auxiliary connection.
To go over-ear, on-ear or in-ear is purely subjective and down to comfort. Most people deem over the head earphones to be more comfortable, but true wireless earbuds are more compact and less impeding.
Many companies provide a range of tips with their wireless earbuds to give users a range of fits because one size doesn't fit all. In the past, the lack of choice may have been the reason true wireless earbuds earned a reputation for being less comfy in the first place. True wireless earbuds are best for people who commute, as over-ear options may be too bulky for this.
If you go for true wireless earbuds, check to see if they come with a charging case (like the Airpods Pro included in this list do). A charging case will mean you get even more battery life, which is great if you're a commuter and are looking at true wireless earbuds because they are compact. A good charging case should help provide over double the initial battery life. Even if you get wireless earbuds with a small amount of battery life, the charging case will see to it that you never run out of charge.
Over-ear options are typically larger, which means that they can feature larger driver arrays and provide the best overall performance.
Your intended use is ultimately going to govern your decision. If you like to listen while you travel, consider the portability a priority. An earbud, wireless, or not, is good for that. Look for something lightweight and compact and perhaps consider a fold-away set or a set with a free storage solution. If you travel on foot, you might want to think about a water-resistant pair, likewise if you are athletically inclined.
Additionally, we recommend wireless earbuds as the best solution for sports as they are far less cumbersome. There isn't a wire to get in the way. They don't have to be true wireless; they just have to be wire free. A set with over ear-hooks can provide additional security if you have a more rigorous routine.
If you're looking to wear them in and around the home and for long periods, you should opt for comfort above all else. An over headset usually provides more cushioning and is ultimately the best type for private listening, gaming, and other sedentary activities. The battery life may not matter so much here, as opposed to a wireless set you'd use for commuting. When the battery life gets low, you just have to plug them in. Unless you have a charging case to keep the battery life topped up, you might not have that luxury when out and about.
Conclusion
Settling on a pair of true wireless earphones is essentially down to your preferences, the majority of competing models have very similar capabilities unless you're looking to part with a significant amount of cash.
The driver sizes can't really get too much bigger due to the nature of a headphone needing to be worn in, or around about the ears. The way in which the drivers function within such a small space and how well they are mechanically assisted in sound-wave reproduction is key.
Most Bluetooth earphones will be utilizing very similar CSR chips for their wireless capabilities. Just make sure it's Bluetooth 4.0 or higher, and your streaming shouldn't be problematic.
Also, keep in mind the battery life. A great battery should see you through for a good couple of hours. Even better battery life will see through all day.
Also, check if they have touch controls, so you don't need to reach for your phone every time you want to switch over a song.
We hope our buyer's guide will have helped summarize the specifications you should be aiming fo. No matter your requirements, we are sure we have you covered.
Expert Tip
If audio quality is what you're after, above all else, you will want to be searching in the higher-end regions. We rate the Bose QuietComfort set very highly as an affordable wireless option.
Did you Know
One of the first 'wire free' headphones invented were the solid state radio models which came about in the 1950s. They were rather over-sized as they were essentially 2 miniature radios, one
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