The Best Earbuds
We compared three top earbuds on expert reviews, owner ratings, and video verdicts. The Apple AirPods Pro 3 are our top pick for their balance of features and performance.
Updated
The bottom line
The Apple AirPods Pro 3 are our top pick for their improved active noise cancellation, heart rate sensing, and live translation feature. They are particularly suited for iPhone users due to their integration with iOS. The Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro is a close runner-up, offering high-res audio and a modern design, but at a higher price. The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8, while offering superior sound quality, is the most expensive option and may be overkill for most users unless you are an audiophile.
Apple AirPods Pro 3 $199.00
Best balance of features and performance
The Apple AirPods Pro 3 offer improved ANC, heart rate sensing, and live translation for $199. TechRadar's review found 'almost scarily good ANC' and a more secure fit. The tradeoff is slightly shorter battery life and mixed sound quality reviews.
Check price on Amazon
Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro AI True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds $249.99
High-res audio and modern design
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro offer high-res audio and a modern design for $249.99. TechRadar rated them 4.5/5, noting 'improved sound quality.' The higher price and lack of significant feature upgrades may be a downside for some.
Check price on Amazon
Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 $349.50
Superior sound quality for audiophiles
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 offer exceptional audio performance and unique features for $349.5. What Hi-Fi? rated them 5/5, calling them 'flagship wireless earbuds.' The high price and niche appeal make them an upgrade pick for audiophiles only.
Check price on AmazonThe field, ranked
- Apple AirPods Pro 3 Best balance of features, performance, and price. 9.0/10 $199.00 Amazon
- Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro AI True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds High-res audio and modern design, but at a higher price. 8.5/10 $249.99 Amazon
- Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 Superior sound quality, but expensive and niche. 9.5/10 $349.50 Amazon
Who should buy which?
iPhone users should consider the Apple AirPods Pro 3 for their integration with iOS and feature set. Android users may prefer the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro for their high-res audio and modern design. Audiophiles should look at the Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 for their superior sound quality, despite the higher price.
Owner complaints
Owners of the Apple AirPods Pro 3 have reported issues with sound quality, particularly harsh treble and a V-shaped sound signature. Some have also experienced connectivity issues and shorter-than-claimed battery life. The Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro and Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 have fewer reported complaints, but some users have noted that the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro's features remain largely unchanged from previous models.