2023 was a standout year for Bluetooth earbuds, with numerous innovations and high-quality options flooding the market. Choosing the right pair can be overwhelming, but after testing dozens of models, I’ve compiled a list of the best Bluetooth earbuds for various needs in 2024. Whether you're blocking out background noise on a long flight, pumping up your workout with your favorite tunes, or seeking the best value, this guide has you covered. Below are my top picks across eight distinct categories.
1. Best for Workouts: Beats Fit Pro
When it comes to workout earbuds, the Beats Fit Procontinues to reign supreme. These earbuds are designed specifically for active users with several standout features:
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Comfort & Fit: The Beats Fit Pro share a similar ergonomic design to AirPods, with an added flexible silicone wing tip that ensures a secure fit during any workout. No matter how intense your exercise, these earbuds won’t fall out.
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Physical Controls: Unlike many other earbuds that rely solely on touch controls, the Beats Fit Pro includes a physical button, making them easy to control even with sweaty hands or while wearing gloves.
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Sound & Features: These earbuds deliver great sound quality, effective Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), and a strong Transparency Mode, ensuring you can stay aware of your surroundings when needed.
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Durability: With solid build quality, they are designed to withstand rigorous workouts.
Runner-Up: Jabra Elite 8 Active
The Jabra Elite 8 Activeoffers superior water resistance on both the earbuds and the case, making them an excellent choice if you’re looking for added durability. Like the Beats Fit Pro, they also feature physical buttons, making them a solid alternative for workout enthusiasts.
2. Best Open-Fit Earbuds: Apple AirPods 3
For those who prefer an open-fit design, where the earbuds don’t have silicone tips that go deep into your ear canal, the Apple AirPods 3are the top choice:
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Comfort & Awareness: These earbuds allow you to hear your surroundings naturally without needing a Transparency Mode, making them ideal for those who want to stay aware of their environment.
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Sound & Features: AirPods 3 deliver great sound quality and excellent microphone performance. However, to fully utilize their features, you’ll need to be part of the Apple ecosystem.
Runner-Up: Sony LinkBuds
The Sony LinkBudsoffer a unique design with a figure-eight shape that includes a hole in the middle, allowing for complete environmental awareness while still delivering impressive sound quality.
3. Best Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) Earbuds: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
For those who prioritize blocking out noise, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbudsare unbeatable, especially for low-frequency sounds:
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Noise Cancellation: These earbuds excel at reducing low-frequency noise, such as the hum of an airplane engine or an air conditioner, making them perfect for travel.
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Sound & Features: Beyond their impressive ANC, they offer high-quality sound, reliable microphones, and a range of features that live up to Bose’s reputation.
Runner-Up: Sony WF-1000XM5
The Sony WF-1000XM5earbuds are the best at blocking out high-frequency noises, like voices or crying babies, thanks to their foam ear tips. They’re also a close second in low-frequency noise cancellation, making them a versatile option.
4. Best Value Earbuds: Samsung Galaxy Buds FE
If you’re looking for the best bang for your buck, especially as an Android user, the Samsung Galaxy Buds FEstand out:
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Durability: With a history of reliable performance, these earbuds are built to last.
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Comfort & Features: They feature a comfortable wing tip design and surprisingly effective ANC for their price point, all while costing well under $100.
Runner-Up: Soundcore Liberty 4 NC
For non-Android users, the Soundcore Liberty 4 NCearbuds offer excellent value with good ANC, solid sound quality, and a variety of color options—all at a very affordable price.
5. Best Sounding Earbuds: Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3
For audiophiles, the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3remains the top pick:
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Sound Quality: These earbuds deliver detailed, articulate sound with clarity across the spectrum. Sennheiser’s sound signature is unmatched in the Bluetooth earbud market.
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Overall Performance: While other earbuds sound great, the Momentum True Wireless 3 consistently delivers the best audio experience.
6. Best Looking Earbuds: Nothing Ear (2) & Marshall Motif 2C
This year, I’ve introduced a category for the best-looking earbuds, as design plays a significant role for many users. Here are two standout models:
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Nothing Ear (2): With their unique transparent design and distinctive dimpled case, these earbuds are not just stylish but also functional, offering excellent ANC, sound quality, and high-resolution audio support.
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Marshall Motif 2C: Inspired by classic Marshall amplifiers, these earbuds feature a sleek, black design with brass accents. They combine retro aesthetics with modern technology, including effective ANC and solid sound quality.
7. Best Call Quality: Apple AirPods Pro
When it comes to making and receiving calls, the Apple AirPods Proare in a league of their own:
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Call Performance: These earbuds excel at isolating your voice, even in noisy environments, making them perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.
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Overall Features: Beyond call quality, AirPods Pro offer strong ANC, great sound, and a design that’s easy to recommend at $249.
8. Best Overall Earbuds: Sony WF-1000XM5
Finally, the title of the best overall earbuds for 2024 goes to the Sony WF-1000XM5:
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Sound & Features: These earbuds offer exceptional sound quality, advanced features like Speak-to-Chat, and top-tier ANC, all wrapped in a stylish design.
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Customizability: With the ability to switch between foam and silicone tips, these earbuds cater to personal preferences, making them the most well-rounded choice on the market.
These are my top picks for the best Bluetooth earbuds of 2024 across various categories. With so many great options available, there’s something here for everyone, no matter your specific needs or budget. If you have a favorite pair that didn’t make the list, feel free to share in the comments. And if you found this guide helpful, check out my other award videos and consider subscribing for more tech reviews and recommendations.