10 Best Earbuds 2025 in the United States

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are a standout option in the earbuds category, particularly for users seeking premium sound quality and advanced features. One of their key strengths is the active noise cancellation, which effectively blocks out background noise, making them ideal for commuting or busy environments. The Transparency mode is a welcome feature that allows users to remain aware of their surroundings, perfect for outdoor activities.

Comfort is also a priority, as the earbuds come with multiple silicone tips to fit various ear shapes, ensuring a snug and secure fit. With a battery life of up to 6 hours on a single charge and a total of 30 hours with the charging case, they are well-suited for long listening sessions without frequent recharging.

Their sound quality is impressive, thanks to the custom Apple-designed H2 chip that enhances audio clarity and depth. The AirPods also include features like personalized spatial audio, which can elevate the listening experience, particularly for movies and music. Durability-wise, the IP54 rating means they are resistant to dust and sweat, making them suitable for workouts or outdoor use. However, they are not fully waterproof, so caution is needed around water.

The Apple AirPods 4 are a solid choice in the earbud category, especially for users deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem. One of the standout features is their impressive sound quality, enhanced by the H2 chip, which also improves call quality through voice isolation. The personalized spatial audio creates an immersive listening experience, making them great for music, movies, and gaming. Battery life is commendable; you can get up to 5 hours on a single charge, and with the charging case, you can enjoy up to 30 hours total. The redesigned case now includes USB-C for convenient charging.

Comfort is another plus, as the AirPods 4 have been rebuilt for a better fit, making them suitable for long listening sessions. They're also dust, sweat, and water-resistant (IP54), which adds durability for active users or those who might use them during workouts.

While they excel in various areas, they lack active noise cancellation, which might be a drawback for those looking for complete immersion in noisy environments. The touch controls, while intuitive, might take some getting used to, especially for users who prefer physical buttons. Additionally, the price point may be higher than some competing earbuds, making them less accessible for budget-conscious consumers.

The SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds 3 Pro earbuds aim to deliver a well-rounded audio experience, boasting active noise cancellation that intelligently adapts to your surroundings. This feature, along with sound optimization, helps you enjoy immersive audio whether you’re in a noisy environment or a quiet one. The earbuds offer a comfortable fit, designed for long-lasting wear, which is great for extended use. They are lightweight at 0.19 ounces and come with multiple ear tip sizes to ensure a snug fit.

In terms of battery life, the earbuds provide up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge, and the charging case extends this to 26 hours, which is decent, though not the best in the market. Fast and wireless charging capabilities add convenience, ensuring you can quickly power up when needed.

Connectivity is smooth with Bluetooth version 5.4, offering a range of 10 meters, making them compatible with various devices like cellphones and tablets. Touch controls are customizable, allowing you to manage music playback and calls with ease. Additionally, the inclusion of real-time translation through Galaxy AI is a unique feature for those who travel or converse in multiple languages.

The water-resistant design adds durability, making them suitable for workouts and light rain, though they may not withstand heavy exposure to water. While the sleek silver design is visually appealing, some users might find the shiny finish less subtle. The reliance on Samsung's AI for sound and translation features means they might be best suited for users within the Samsung ecosystem. With a 2-year warranty exclusive to Amazon, they offer peace of mind, but the battery's 135-minute charging time might be a drawback for those on the go. The Buds 3 Pro are a solid choice for anyone seeking versatile and feature-rich earbuds, particularly if you use Samsung devices.