Wireless Earbuds Buying Guide How to Choose the Best Ones
Confused about which wireless earbuds to purchase? Read this easy to understand guide that covers everything you need to know.
When you search for ‘good’ wireless earbuds in the shop, you’ll find a list of 50 different results, all promising to deliver a ‘premium’, ‘studio quality’, or ‘best-in-class’ experience. But honestly all you really want is a pair that are comfortable and last throughout your commute.
Once you know what to look for however, finding the perfect wireless earbuds is super easy! Let’s break it down:
1. Determine your use case
This is important to know to understand what you’ll value in your wireless earbuds. Are you going to use them for:
Working out/running – Secure fit, sweat-proof and durable.
Commute/travel – Noise cancelling and longevity.
Making calls/work meetings – Microphone quality.
Listening to music casually – Comfortable and balanced sounding.
Audiophile music – High-quality sound and codecs.
This will influence almost all of your choices.
2. What’s important to know?
Sound Quality
While this is very subjective, there are a few things to take into consideration. A lot of people will prefer a balanced sound rather than too much bass. If you’re into electronic, hip hop or pop music you may prefer a bass-heavy sound.
This is a big one to take into consideration. Read in-depth reviews regarding the sound quality. Don’t rely on the marketing as almost every brand will say their sound quality is ‘premium’.
Noise Cancelling (ANC)
ANC is a feature that uses the built-in microphone to block out background noises such as engine noise or office chatter. While this is great for commuting, flying or in noisy environments, it’s not essential if you’re using your earbuds mostly at home or for short walks. ANC does tend to drain the battery quicker.
Fit & Comfort
This is probably the most important factor when purchasing wireless earbuds. If they don’t fit well you’ll have:
Earbuds falling out.
Noises going in/out.
Discomfort after longer use.
Look for earbuds that include different sized ear tips. Check if they have a return policy in case they don’t fit your ears.
Battery Life
Check how long they last on a single charge and how long the battery lasts with the case. If you’re a heavy user, or if you travel a lot, then the overall battery life is important.
Water & Sweat Proof
If you’re going to use your earbuds whilst working out or in unpredictable weather look for an IP rating (IPX4 or above). The higher the number the better it’ll be water/sweat proof. However, the meaning can differ so check what it exactly means.
Microphone
If you’re often using your earbuds for making calls look for reviews mentioning the microphone quality. This really varies depending on the model.
Bluetooth & Codecs
Most modern earbuds will use Bluetooth. Some will have support for different codecs (aptX, LDAC etc on some android devices). This will influence the sound quality if you have a compatible phone. This is only really important if you’re an audiophile. Otherwise you probably won’t notice much of a difference.
3. Ecosystem
If you’re really attached to a phone ecosystem (apple or android) look for earbuds that work specifically with the ecosystem. They’ll have a much smoother connection, better integration and sometimes exclusive features (auto-switching). This isn’t essential but is something to consider.
4. How much are you willing to spend?
Budget – These will have decent sound quality and battery life. Often they won’t have ANC or many advanced features. Perfect for casual use.
Mid range – These usually have ANC, better sound quality and comfort. The perfect choice for most.
Premium – These will have amazing sound quality, advanced ANC, premium build and additional features. Great for audiophiles or those who travel a lot. You likely won’t need these for casual use.
Don’t assume the most expensive one is the best for you. You’re wasting money on features you’ll never use.
Easy Decision Guide
If you use them mainly for…
Working out/running – Secure fit, sweat-proof.
Commute/Travel – Noise cancelling & battery life.
Making calls – Microphone quality.
Listening casually – Comfortable & Balanced.
Audiophile – Codecs & Drivers.
Common Mistakes
Purchasing because of the brand. Not looking at reviews for your use case.
Not looking at the return policy. It’s very personal and what works for one person may not work for you.
Paying too much for features you won’t use. Such as premium ANC if you’re mainly listening at home in quiet areas.
Not looking at real reviews for battery life. The battery life often isn’t measured in real-life conditions.
Not looking at if replacement ear tips and cases are available.
Final Thoughts
The best wireless earbuds for you are the ones that fit your ears, lifestyle and listening. Once you’ve determined your use case, make sure you prioritise this and you’ll end up with a pair you’ll really enjoy.
What is one feature you never knew you’d need? Let me know in the comments below so others can make a better choice.
