What Earbuds Are Better Than Airpods? Top Alternatives
AirPods. They’re everywhere, right? And for good reason – they’re convenient, integrate seamlessly with Apple devices, and offer a decent listening experience. But are they the best? Not necessarily. The truth is, the market is brimming with incredible earbuds that often outperform AirPods in key areas like sound quality, noise cancellation, and even comfort.
If you’re an Android user, AirPods aren’t even an option without some significant compromises. Even if you’re firmly in the Apple ecosystem, you might find that other brands offer features and sound profiles that better suit your preferences. We’re going to explore some of the top contenders, breaking down their strengths and weaknesses so you can find the perfect pair for you. Get ready to discover a world of audio possibilities beyond the ubiquitous white stems!
Why Consider Alternatives to Airpods?
Before we jump into specific models, let’s explore why you might want to consider alternatives to AirPods. While AirPods have become a status symbol, they aren’t perfect for everyone. Here’s a breakdown:
- Sound Quality: While AirPods have improved over the years, many competing brands offer superior sound quality, with richer bass, clearer highs, and a more balanced overall sound profile.
- Noise Cancellation: AirPods Pro does offer noise cancellation, but other brands often provide more effective and customizable noise-canceling capabilities, crucial for noisy environments like public transport or busy offices.
- Fit and Comfort: AirPods’ one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t suit everyone. Many people find the fit uncomfortable or that they constantly fall out. Other brands offer a variety of ear tip sizes and designs for a more secure and comfortable fit.
- Features: Some earbuds offer unique features that AirPods lack, such as advanced EQ customization, multi-point pairing (connecting to two devices simultaneously), or support for hi-res audio codecs.
- Price: While AirPods are reasonably priced, they are not the cheapest. Many excellent alternatives offer similar or better performance at a lower price point.
- Platform Compatibility: AirPods are optimized for Apple devices. While they work with Android, you’ll miss out on some features and the seamless integration experience.
Top Earbud Alternatives to Airpods
Now, let’s dive into some of the best earbuds that outshine AirPods in various aspects. We’ll categorize them based on their strengths to help you find the perfect fit.
For Superior Sound Quality: Sony Wf-1000xm5
Sony has consistently been at the forefront of audio technology, and the WF-1000XM5 earbuds are a testament to that. They deliver exceptional sound quality that often surpasses even the AirPods Max. These earbuds are a significant upgrade over previous models. The XM5s feature Sony’s integrated Processor V2 and a new driver unit, creating a richer sound.
- Sound Quality: The WF-1000XM5s provide a balanced and detailed sound profile, with powerful bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. They support high-resolution audio codecs like LDAC, delivering a more immersive listening experience.
- Noise Cancellation: Sony’s noise cancellation is industry-leading, effectively blocking out a vast range of ambient noise.
- Comfort: The redesigned earbud shape and smaller size make them more comfortable for extended listening sessions. They now come with three sizes of foam ear tips for a better fit.
- Features: The WF-1000XM5s offer a range of features, including adaptive sound control, speak-to-chat, and excellent call quality.
- Battery Life: Up to 8 hours of battery life with noise cancellation enabled, and up to 24 hours with the charging case.
Why they’re better than AirPods: The WF-1000XM5s offer a more refined and detailed sound profile, superior noise cancellation, and a more comfortable fit for many users. The support for high-resolution audio codecs is also a significant advantage.
For Active Lifestyles: Jabra Elite 7 Active
If you’re a fitness enthusiast or simply lead an active lifestyle, the Jabra Elite 7 Active earbuds are an excellent choice. They are designed to stay securely in your ears, even during intense workouts.
- Fit and Durability: The Elite 7 Active features a unique design with Jabra’s ShakeGrip technology, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. They are also IP57-rated for water and dust resistance.
- Sound Quality: While not as audiophile-grade as the Sony XM5, the Elite 7 Active earbuds deliver a balanced and clear sound profile, with a focus on clarity and punchy bass.
- Noise Cancellation: The noise cancellation is effective, especially for blocking out gym noise or ambient sounds during your runs.
- Features: They offer excellent call quality, customizable EQ settings, and support for voice assistants.
- Battery Life: Up to 8 hours of battery life with noise cancellation enabled, and up to 30 hours with the charging case.
Why they’re better than AirPods: The Jabra Elite 7 Active earbuds offer a more secure and durable design, making them ideal for workouts and other active pursuits. They also provide better noise isolation and a more customizable listening experience.
For Value for Money: Soundcore Liberty 4 Nc
Anker’s Soundcore brand has made a name for itself by offering high-quality audio products at affordable prices. The Liberty 4 NC earbuds are no exception, providing excellent value for money.
- Sound Quality: The Liberty 4 NC delivers a balanced and engaging sound profile, with customizable EQ settings via the Soundcore app.
- Noise Cancellation: The noise cancellation is impressive for the price, effectively reducing ambient noise in various environments.
- Comfort: The earbuds are comfortable to wear, with multiple ear tip sizes to ensure a secure fit.
- Features: They offer a range of features, including multi-point pairing, long battery life, and wireless charging.
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours of battery life with noise cancellation enabled, and up to 50 hours with the charging case.
Why they’re better than AirPods: The Soundcore Liberty 4 NC earbuds offer a compelling combination of sound quality, noise cancellation, and features at a significantly lower price point than AirPods. The long battery life is also a major advantage.
For Seamless Android Integration: Google Pixel Buds Pro
If you’re an Android user, the Google Pixel Buds Pro are a fantastic alternative to AirPods. They are designed to integrate seamlessly with Android devices, offering a similar user experience to AirPods with iPhones.
- Sound Quality: The Pixel Buds Pro delivers a balanced and clear sound profile, with a focus on clarity and detail.
- Noise Cancellation: The active noise cancellation is effective, especially for blocking out mid-range frequencies.
- Fit and Comfort: The earbuds are comfortable to wear, with a secure fit. They also include ear tips in various sizes.
- Features: They offer features like Google Assistant integration, spatial audio, and quick pairing with Android devices.
- Battery Life: Up to 7 hours of battery life with noise cancellation enabled, and up to 20 hours with the charging case.
Why they’re better than AirPods: The Pixel Buds Pro offer a seamless integration experience for Android users, with features like Google Assistant integration and quick pairing. They also provide a comfortable fit and effective noise cancellation.
For Audiophiles: Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3
Sennheiser is renowned for its high-fidelity audio products, and the Momentum True Wireless 3 earbuds live up to that reputation. They are designed for listeners who prioritize sound quality above all else.
- Sound Quality: The Momentum True Wireless 3 delivers exceptional sound quality, with a balanced and detailed sound profile, rich bass, and clear highs.
- Noise Cancellation: The noise cancellation is effective, especially in blocking out low-frequency sounds.
- Comfort: The earbuds are comfortable to wear, with a variety of ear tip sizes to ensure a secure fit.
- Features: They offer a range of features, including customizable EQ settings, touch controls, and aptX Adaptive support for high-quality audio streaming.
- Battery Life: Up to 7 hours of battery life with noise cancellation enabled, and up to 28 hours with the charging case.
Why they’re better than AirPods: The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 earbuds offer superior sound quality, making them a great choice for audiophiles who prioritize a premium listening experience. The support for aptX Adaptive is also a significant advantage.
Comparison Table
Here’s a quick comparison of the key features of these earbuds:
| Feature | Sony WF-1000XM5 | Jabra Elite 7 Active | Soundcore Liberty 4 NC | Google Pixel Buds Pro | Sennheiser Momentum TW 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sound Quality | Excellent | Good | Good | Good | Excellent |
| Noise Cancellation | Industry-Leading | Good | Very Good | Good | Good |
| Fit/Comfort | Very Good | Excellent (Active) | Good | Good | Good |
| Features | Adaptive Sound Control, Speak-to-Chat | ShakeGrip, Customizable EQ | Multi-point Pairing, Wireless Charging | Google Assistant Integration, Spatial Audio | Customizable EQ, aptX Adaptive |
| Battery Life (with ANC) | 8 hours | 8 hours | 10 hours | 7 hours | 7 hours |
| Price (approx.) | $$$ | $$ | $ | $$ | $$$ |
| Best For | Overall Best Sound | Active Lifestyles | Value for Money | Android Users | Audiophiles |
Legend: $ = Budget-Friendly, $$ = Mid-Range, $$$ = Premium
Factors to Consider When Choosing Earbuds
Choosing the right earbuds depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:
- Sound Quality: If sound quality is your top priority, look for earbuds with balanced sound profiles, detailed audio, and support for high-resolution audio codecs.
- Noise Cancellation: If you need to block out ambient noise, prioritize earbuds with effective noise cancellation.
- Fit and Comfort: Consider the fit and comfort of the earbuds, especially if you plan to wear them for extended periods. Look for earbuds with multiple ear tip sizes or designs that provide a secure fit.
- Features: Determine which features are essential for you, such as multi-point pairing, voice assistant integration, or customizable EQ settings.
- Battery Life: Consider the battery life of the earbuds and the charging case, especially if you plan to use them for travel or long listening sessions.
- Price: Set a budget and compare the features and performance of different earbuds within your price range.
- Platform Compatibility: Ensure the earbuds are compatible with your devices and operating systems.
Tips for Maximizing Your Earbud Experience
- Experiment with ear tip sizes: Finding the right ear tip size is crucial for comfort, noise isolation, and sound quality. Try different sizes to find the best fit for your ears.
- Clean your earbuds regularly: Clean your earbuds regularly to remove earwax and debris, which can affect sound quality and hygiene.
- Update the firmware: Keep your earbuds’ firmware up to date to ensure you have the latest features, bug fixes, and performance improvements.
- Customize your EQ settings: Use the EQ settings in your earbud’s app to customize the sound profile to your preferences.
- Consider a protective case: Protect your earbuds from damage by using a protective case.
Final Verdict
So, are AirPods the best? Not necessarily. While they have their strengths, there’s a whole world of superior alternatives out there. Whether you prioritize sound quality, noise cancellation, a secure fit, or value for money, there’s an earbud model that will likely outperform AirPods for your needs.
The Sony WF-1000XM5, Jabra Elite 7 Active, Soundcore Liberty 4 NC, Google Pixel Buds Pro, and Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 are just a few examples of the incredible options available. By considering your personal preferences and the factors we’ve discussed, you can find the perfect earbuds to elevate your listening experience and potentially save some money in the process. Happy listening!
Recommended Products
