Best Wireless Earbuds Reddit 2024

It’s 2024 and we are way over the wired headsets now. With wireless technology and active noise canceling the earbuds have come a long way.

Here we review the best wireless earbuds Reddit has recommended. It’s a daunting task to find the best wireless earbuds that suit a specific requirement. Earbuds can range from daily use to a professional setup according to the requirement of the consumer.

Therefore it is essential to categorise the earbuds according to your need.We divided the earbuds to two different categories which are daily-drivers and audiophile. Here we rank the best of the two worlds and compare their performance and features to provide you with a conclusion which are the best earbuds of 2024.

Best Daily-driver Earbuds

Best Audiophile Earbuds

Sony WF-1000XM5

Performance

The Sony WF-1000XM5 truly wireless earbuds impress with their overall performance, building upon the success of their predecessor. The earbuds feature two new processors – the Integrated Processor V2 and the HD Noise Canceling Processor QN2e, elevating the active noise-canceling (ANC) capabilities. With six microphones, including new dual feedback mics for monitoring low-frequency noise, the ANC attenuates over 30dB of low-frequency outside noise, making them an excellent choice for daily commuting and busy environments.

The 8.4mm dynamic drivers, upgraded from the previous 6mm drivers, contribute to a balanced and detailed sound profile. While the emphasis on lower frequencies caters to workouts, the Headphones Connect app allows users to create custom EQ profiles, offering flexibility for various listening preferences. The soundstage is noticeably wider, enhancing the listening experience, especially for genres where instrument separation is crucial.

The touch control improvements, combined with the dedicated pairing button and Bluetooth 5.3 support, provide a seamless and responsive user experience. The ability to connect to two devices simultaneously through Bluetooth multipoint adds convenience for users with multiple devices, ensuring a smooth transition between devices without lag or connection drops.

Noise Cancellation

Sony has significantly improved the active noise-canceling performance in the WF-1000XM5, making them one of the top choices in the market. The combination of advanced processors, six microphones, and enhanced ear tips results in impressive noise reduction. The ANC attenuates over 30dB of low-frequency outside noise, complemented by the updated foam ear tips that provide better isolation, reducing noise by up to 15dB in the low end and up to 50dB for sounds above 1kHz.

A standout feature is the effectiveness in windy conditions. The microphones on the WF-1000XM5 address wind noise, ensuring a distortion-free experience even in breezy outdoor situations. The ability to toggle between ANC and Ambient Sound mode by tapping the left earbud adds versatility, allowing users to stay aware of their surroundings when needed.

The Headphones Connect app further enhances the noise-canceling experience, offering customization options for ambient sound levels.

Battery Life

Sony has maintained a commendable battery life in the WF-1000XM5, ensuring users can enjoy extended listening sessions without frequent charging. The earbuds themselves last up to 8 hours of continuous playback, and with the charging case providing three additional charge cycles, the total battery life extends to an impressive 24 hours. In real-world testing, the WF-1000XM5 surpassed expectations, lasting 9 hours and 32 minutes on a single charge.

Overview

Priced at $299.99, the Sony WF-1000XM5 stands out with enhanced comfort, advanced ANC, and up to 24 hours of battery life. A top-tier choice, the 25% smaller design and 20% weight reduction address comfort concerns. User-friendly controls, customizable EQ, and upgraded 8.4mm drivers enhance the experience.

In a competitive market, the WF-1000XM5 excels in ANC and software support. Upgrading depends on comfort preferences. Compared to AirPods Pro, Sony leads in noise reduction and Android compatibility, while Apple users may prefer AirPods Pro for comfort and seamless integration. The WF-1000XM5 justifies its premium for top-notch features.

Technics AZ80 Earbuds

Design

One of the first things you notice with the AZ80 is their clean, minimalist design. The case has a matte finish with a brushed metal lid, which gives it a refined look compared to the previous AZ60 model. The earbuds themselves feature the same vinyl record-like design on the touch surface, a subtle nod to Technics’ audio heritage.

Though they are on the larger side, they offer a more compact vertical profile than their predecessor, improving the fit. I was pleasantly surprised by how securely they stayed in my ears, even during light physical activity. While not the most compact earbuds on the market, the comfort level is decent for extended use. Bulkier than the AirPods but a significant improvement from its predecessor. 

Sound Quality

Where the AZ80 truly shines is in its audio performance. Technics is known for delivering high-quality sound, and these earbuds are no exception. The AZ80 offers an open and spacious soundstage, which is perfect for complex tracks with multiple layers. The treble is detailed with a pleasant sparkle, and the bass—especially with the “Super Bass” preset—packs a punch without overwhelming the other frequencies. I personally preferred the dynamic preset, which offers a balanced mix of bass and treble.

Vocals, both male and female, are exceptional on these earbuds, providing clarity and natural tones. Instrument separation is also top-tier, allowing individual elements of tracks to shine. 

In terms of sound quality, I’d place these right alongside the Denon Pearl Pro, and perhaps just a notch below the Sennheiser Momentum 4 in terms of treble clarity if the Momentum 4 is customized correctly. Stock Momentum 4 is below par with the Technics at a glance.

Noise Cancellation and Ambient Mode

The ANC on the AZ80 performs admirably but doesn’t quite reach the levels of the AirPods Pro 2  or XM5, much less it barely competes with the Bose QC (Gen 2). It’s effective for daily commutes and office environments, but if you’re seeking absolute silence, there are better options available. The ambient mode is another strong point, offering a natural and customizable sound that can be adjusted through the Technics app. In terms of ANC, the AZ80 is slightly behind the AirPods Pro 2, XM5 and Bose QC Earbuds 2, but ahead of many other mid-range earbuds.

Multi-Point Connection and Connectivity

Allowing you to connect to up to three devices at once, is truly what keeps Technics apart from the competition. While this feature is quite impressive, there are some caveats. If you’re using multi-point with three devices, you lose the ability to use LDAC for high-resolution audio. However, reducing the connection to two devices brings LDAC back into play. I found that switching between devices was smooth, though I had to adopt the habit of pausing and minimizing apps before switching to avoid any issues.

The Sony WF-1000XM5 offers multi-point connection as well, but only for two devices. The ability to connect to three devices with the AZ80 is a rare and convenient feature.

Battery Life

Battery performance on the AZ80 is solid, offering around 7 hours of use on a single charge and up to 24 hours with the case. The fast-charging capability is another bonus, providing 70 minutes of playback after just 15 minutes of charging. The addition of wireless charging is a welcome upgrade over the AZ60 model, making the AZ80 much more convenient for those using wireless charging pads.

Call Quality

For phone calls, the AZ80 performs surprisingly well in some instances. The “Just My Voice” feature isolates your voice and eliminates background noise effectively. A unique feature allows you to record and playback your voice in the app to check microphone quality. The AZ80 also offers a feature that reduces background noise from the caller’s end, which is something I haven’t seen in other earbuds. Can’t seem to pinpoint as the best call quality, but if you love everything about it then this won’t disappoint.

Verdict

If you are looking for earbuds that sound excellent and looking for the perfect balance of audiophile and daily driver earbuds, then Technics will do the trick for you. It performs excellent in its sound signature while balancing out other features overall. If you are in the look out for ANC and call quality as the priority features then options such as AirPods and XM5 will take the lead.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)

Design

In terms of design, the Apple AirPods Pro is one of the smoothly designed earbuds with a proper fit as far as earbuds are concerned. The casing of the AirPods now has a built-in speaker, which emits a sound for it to be located via the Find-My app and an alert tone when the battery is low or when paired to the device. You can silence these sounds in the case through iPhone settings. 

Compared to the Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro the AirPods Pro 2nd Generation comes with a lower IPX4 rating, however, this can withstand normal splashes or small rain. The iconic stem design has been a frustrating element for users who are engaged in an active lifestyle. As masks became the new normal the air buds tend to fling along with the mask when removed accidentally because of the stem.

Other earbuds manufacturers have given a proper fit that snuggles in the ear perfectly without any extruding parts. Much of the fit comes from the silicon tips and if the proper pair of silicone tips are selected then it vastly contributes to ANC.

Performance and sound

The sound is crisp and has great quality. The AirPods Pro 2nd Generation will provide you with quality sound as long as you have a good fit in the ear. The AirPods Pro 2nd Generation has a slight emphasis on the sub-bass frequencies. The lows and mids have not changed in the 2nd generation. Crisp tones are slightly admissible in the air pods and we would’ve liked it if it had a bit more emphasis on this as well.

Noise-cancelling

Noise-canceling has been leveled up from the AirPods Pro and now it’s excellent producing some of the best ANC in the market. The AirPods Pro 2nd Generation can be used in any environment in commute, train, etc. As with most earbuds, the ANC quality depends on the fit of the earbuds. Ear tips may vary for each and the simple test for the fit can be done through an iOS device.

Battery Life

The battery life of the AirPods Pro 2nd Generation is 5 hours and 30 minutes maximum in our test and the charging case provided extra 24 hours of listening time. Recharging remains convenient with plenty of options such as Qi, Magsafe, Apple Watch charging mat, and the lightning cable. However, there can be significant improvements in battery life considering the competition from other manufacturers. 

Overview

If you are an iOS user then choosing the AirPods Pro 2nd Generation is an easy decision as the connectivity it offers cannot be matched. In terms of overall quality the earbuds have improved significantly from their predecessor and users can expect great sound quality and top ANC from the AirPods Pro 2nd Generation.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

First off, the noise-canceling performance on these earbuds is stellar. Bose continues to catch-up with the XM5 in this department. While testing them in noisy environments like cafes and public transport, the QC Ultra handled background noise with ease. Compared to the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds Gen II, the Ultra’s noise-canceling felt on par, but not a significant leap ahead. Both models block out the world around you, but if you’re specifically looking for a noise-canceling powerhouse, either of these will impress.

Where the QC Ultra stands out, though, is the addition of spatial audio with head-tracking, something that’s missing in the Gen II version. Some may not prefer the spatial sound feature in AirPods and may continue to do the same with Bose. However Bose has managed to edge past AirPods when we tested.

Sound Quality

The sound quality of the Bose QC Ultra is excellent, balanced, clean, and detailed. They deliver that typical Bose sound signature, with clear highs and mids. However, I was hoping for a little more punch in the bass, especially for a premium product. Compared to the Sony WF-1000XM5, which delivers a bit more richness in the lower end, I felt the QC Ultra could have offered a little more bass impact, especially for bass-heavy genres like hip-hop or EDM. 

Still, they’re great for classical, jazz, and even podcasts, where clarity is more important than thumping bass. For casual and balanced listening, the QC Ultra are a pleasure, but they don’t give you the kind of customizable EQ settings you get with the Sony XM5. 

One standout feature is the support for Snapdragon Sound, which promises higher-quality audio streaming on compatible Android devices. If you own an Android phone with Snapdragon Sound, you’ll notice a bump in quality, but for iPhone users, this feature doesn’t add much value. This puts the QC Ultra at an advantage over competitors like the AirPods Pro 2, but only for a specific audience.

Comfort and Design

One area where Bose has really improved is comfort. The QC Ultra has a more ergonomic design than some previous Bose earbuds, fitting snugly without feeling too bulky in the ear. But here’s the catch: the charging case is quite bulky, making it harder to slip into a pocket compared to something sleeker like the AirPods Pro 2 or the Bose QC Earbuds Gen II. The case’s design could definitely be more compact given the price tag of these earbuds.

I also found myself missing swipe controls for volume adjustment, something that would make using them on the go even more convenient. You still have to reach for your phone to adjust the volume, which is a small but noticeable annoyance, especially when you’re paying a premium for these earbuds.

Transparency Mode

The transparency mode on the QC Ultra works well enough but lacks the natural feel you get with competitors like Apple’s AirPods Pro 2. Apple has really nailed the transparency feature, making it feel like you’re not even wearing earbuds, while the QC Ultra still sounds somewhat artificial. Compared to Bose’s own QC Gen II earbuds, the QC Ultra is a bit behind in terms of natural sound passthrough. 

Battery Life and Features

The battery life is decent—around 6 hours on a single charge, which is pretty standard but also competitors do have much to offer in this area.

Verdict

Overall, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds deliver great noise-canceling and solid sound quality, with a few standout features like spatial audio and Snapdragon Sound. However, for a product at this price point, there are some trade-offs, like the bulky case, lack of swipe controls, and a less-than-perfect transparency mode. Bose can also be an excellent alternative for AirPods as they have more customizability and spatial audio. Again this may not be the best on ANC and transparency but handles most things pretty well.

Sennheiser Momentum 4

With its robust feature set and cutting-edge firmware updates, the MTW4 aims to deliver an elevated listening experience. Here’s my take, balancing pros, cons, and comparisons.

Despite being slightly bulky, the MTW4 earbuds are surprisingly comfortable. The inclusion of multiple silicone tip sizes ensures a secure fit, catering to various ear shapes. Equipped with Bluetooth 5.4, these earbuds excel in maintaining a solid connection, even in bustling areas like central London.

The Sennheiser Smart Control app provides versatile options such as EQ customization, fit testing, and touch control adjustments, enhancing user experience.

A standout feature, the sound quality is stellar with a customizable sound profile that highlights clarity and balance.  ANC performs admirably, particularly in noisy environments like public transport, reducing distractions effectively. 

Offering up to 7.5 hours without ANC and 5.5 hours with ANC, plus a case supporting three full charges, the MTW4 ensures long-lasting playback. AptX Adaptive, aptX Lossless, and Auracast compatibility future-proof the earbuds, particularly for audiophiles.

The size might deter users looking for a more discreet option. Volume control is only assignable to press-and-hold gestures, restricting flexibility. While anti-wind mode reduces gust interference, it slightly hampers ANC effectiveness. 

In noisy environments, the microphone struggles with clarity despite performing well in quiet conditions. The improved nozzle action doesn’t fully address earwax accumulation. Compared to competitors, the case size is on the larger side. Some wind feedback persists when ANC is active.

Sony XM5 which has been arguably topping charts compared to the update firmware MTW4s is still ahead. With ANC MTW4s still lack the quality of ANC compared to XM5. In terms of design the XM5 is more compact and much more of a snug fit rather than MTW4s in general but this can vary. Furthermore the support for LDAC is at the courtesy of XM5.

However the Sennheiser sound signature remains the same as the better sounding of the two. But with ANC and slightly above par sound quality XM5 is much preferred as they provide a better environment for the sound. However with the new updates the ANC is slightly better in the earbuds and has been rising in popularity.

Samsung Galaxy Buds 2

Design

The Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro is designed with a unique roundness, the same as the Galaxy Bud’s traditional design. The material is a matte rubber texture that covers the outside of the earbuds, which has a smooth and premium feel while the inside in-ear part is plastic. The buds are designed for excellent waterproof capabilities with an IPX7 rating. 

As with the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2, in terms of an active lifestyle, such as running, the earbuds will not be ideal as they may not be the perfect fit. The silicon ear tips come in 11 mm, 13 mm, and 15 mm sizes. However, the comfort of the earbuds can be reliable once they become familiar. 

A huge letdown can be expected from the charging case, as it is also made from the same material as the earbuds, it can be scratched and soaked in dust, which can be picked up from pockets and in general use. The build of the case is strong and the magnets in place have a good attraction.

Performance and sound

The partnership with AKG which is also owned by Samsung has generated a quality-sounding pair of earbuds from the Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro. The Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro tends to perform more in sub-bass frequencies. The earbuds also have 360 audio, which can be accessed under the in-app settings. 

You can expect more bass frequencies and for certain tracks, this may not be ideal, but in our testing and regular use, we found that this does not bother us as the soundstage and slight adjustment of the EQ Can provide great sound quality in the app.

Noise-cancelling

The Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro is popular for its ANC performance. The technology behind active noise cancelling in the Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro is a combination of isolation and ANC to assess the environment around you. However, slight miscalculations can be expected and certain uneven, attenuation frequencies can be heard. As with most earbuds, a good in-ear fit will be the key to decent active noise cancellation therefore when choosing your ear tip size, the app will assist you.

Battery Life

The Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro lasted around five hours with constant listening and active noise cancellation. Compared to Sony and most of the brands the battery life may not be the ideal expected range.

Overview

The Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro can be a good value purchase when considering good-sounding earbuds and ANC. Certainly, Samsung has managed to elevate the technology from Samsung Galaxy Buds2 into the Pros. If you are on a Samsung device, there is no better recommendation than the Galaxy Buds2 Pro.

Google Pixel Buds Pro 2

Pixel Buds 2 came with a bang back in 2023 making waves on Ai in wireless earbuds with their promise of comfort, solid audio quality, and smart updates. After reviewing them, here is our opinion on them.

They nailed it. The buds are smaller and lighter than before (27% and 24%, respectively), which means they’re not just easy on the ears but also feel more secure thanks to the nifty micro fin. Whether I was commuting or just lounging, they stayed put without any awkward readjustments.

Battery life is also fantastic. With ANC on, I got a solid 8 hours of listening time, and if I turned ANC off, it stretched to 12 hours. Pair that with the charging case, and you’re looking at up to 30 hours (or a crazy 48 hours with ANC off). For someone who hates constantly charging gadgets, this was a big win.

I was pleasantly surprised by the audio customization options. Google added new EQ settings in the Buds app, making it easier to tweak the sound to my liking. While the audio isn’t studio-grade, it’s more than fine for everyday use. Mic Quality is excellent. Fairly in our testing it exceeded AirPods and Samsung Buds 3 Pro.

Speaking of the case, there are smart upgrades here too. The built-in speaker is great for Google’s Find My Device network, it’s a lifesaver when I misplace them. Plus, it gives off an audible alert when the battery is low, which is pretty handy.

Unfortunately, the ANC is a letdown. It’s good enough for blocking out some noise, but when you compare it to the XM5, Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro or AirPods Pro 2, the difference is noticeable. If you’re a frequent flyer or need stellar noise cancellation, you might find these lacking.

Then there’s the Bluetooth multipoint. In theory, it’s a great feature that lets you switch between devices. In practice? Not so much. I had to manually fiddle with the settings to jump between my phone and laptop, which was frustrating.

Another little quirk—the fit. It’s hard to tell the left earbud from the right at a glance, and I found myself picking up the wrong one more often than I’d like. Small thing, but annoying.

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 are a step in the right direction, especially with their improved design, stellar battery life, and thoughtful case updates. But if ANC or seamless device switching is high on your priority list, you might want to explore alternatives. That said, if you’re a fan of Google’s ecosystem or just want a comfortable, reliable pair of earbuds for everyday use, and if you want good mic quality it’s right up there.

Denon Perl Pro

First off, the microphone quality is impressive. Whether I’m in a noisy food court or out in a crowded street, the Denon PerL Pro consistently blocks out background noise while keeping my voice clear. In controlled environments, I noticed the same: solid performance even when I added wind noise and loud chatter in the background. It’s on par with some of the best in the market, like the Sony WF-1000XM5 and Apple AirPods Pro 2. If call quality is important to you, these won’t disappoint.

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)

The ANC is another strong point. In noisy environments, like public transport or a busy cafe, the PerL Pro handles human chatter and background rumble with ease. It’s not the absolute best, but it comes very close to what you’d expect from top competitors like the Sony XM5 or the Jabra Elite 10. However, unlike some competitors, you don’t get much control over the noise-canceling intensity, which feels like a missed opportunity, especially given how some earbuds allow for deeper customization here.

Unfortunately, transparency mode is  where the Denon PerL Pro falters. The transparency mode feels quite artificial, almost like you’re hearing the world through a radio. It’s usable if you’re having a quick conversation, but if you’re expecting the kind of seamless, natural pass-through you get with something like the AirPods Pro 2, you’ll be let down. It’s easily the least impressive feature of these earbuds.

Sound Quality

Now, let’s talk about sound. Out of the box, I wasn’t blown away. The sound was clean and punchy, but the mid-range felt a bit overemphasized, making vocals sound somewhat tinny, while the bass was less impactful than I’d like. However, once I ran the AAT (Adaptive Acoustic Technology) tuning, it was like I had a completely different pair of earbuds. The sound became more balanced, fuller, and more immersive—exactly the kind of V-shaped signature I prefer, with deep bass and rich mids. If you’re looking for a personalized audio experience, the PerL Pro really delivers here.

That said, I still find the 5-band EQ limiting. It doesn’t quite target the frequencies I want to tweak, which is a bit disappointing given how customizable other earbuds like the Technics AZ80 are in this department. But even without perfect EQ control, the sound after AAT is excellent and competitive with some of the best, like the Bowers & Wilkins PI7 S2. In fact, if I hadn’t tried the PI7 S2, I might have called the Denons the best-sounding earbuds I’ve used.

Fit and Comfort

These earbuds are also great for gym use. Thanks to the silicone fins, they stay secure in my ears even during intense workouts. I’ve had issues with other premium earbuds like the Technics AZ80, which don’t offer as stable a fit during physical activities. So if you need earbuds that won’t budge while you’re on the move, these are a solid choice.

User Experience and App

The app itself is clean and straightforward, which I appreciate, but it does take an annoyingly long time to load. Also, while you can customize individual touch gestures, you’re locked out of customizing the long-press gesture—it’s permanently set to pairing mode. I would’ve preferred to use it for ANC toggles or other features. Other earbuds like the Sony WF-1000XM5 or the Technics AZ80 offer more options here, giving you better control over your user experience.

Connectivity and Codec Support

The PerL Pro supports aptX Adaptive, which is great for those with Snapdragon Sound Certified devices, but there’s no LDAC support. Competitors like the Technics AZ80 and Sony WF-1000XM5 offer LDAC, which provides higher bitrate streaming on most Android devices, not just those with Snapdragon certification. This might be a deal-breaker if you’re an Android user and value higher audio resolution.

Overall, the Denon PerL Pro offers incredible sound, especially after AAT calibration. The call quality and ANC are more than capable, making them a great option for commuting or taking calls in noisy environments. However, its weak transparency mode and lack of customization in certain areas (like the app and touch gestures) hold it back from being perfect.

If you prioritize sound quality and a personalized audio experience, the PerL Pro is worth considering, especially over something like the B&W PI7 S2, which lacks customization. But if you’re after transparency mode or a more refined user experience, the Sony WF-1000XM5 or Technics AZ80 might be better alternatives.

Astell & Kern UW100

The biggest selling point of the UW100 is its sound quality, and I can confidently say it doesn’t disappoint. AK has incorporated some of their cutting-edge tech, including a 32-bit Hi-Fi DAC and circuitry from their expensive DAPs. This is something you won’t find in most wireless earbuds, which usually rely on integrated DACs in the Bluetooth System on Chip (SoC). It’s like the difference between having a PC with a discrete graphics card (think RTX 3090) versus an integrated one. The result? A clean, smooth, and non-fatiguing sound with rich detail, especially in the mids and treble.

Vocals and instruments like strings have a lovely presence with good vibrancy and detail. There’s also plenty of “air” in the highs, making cymbals and hi-hats feel crisp and natural. However, you can notice that the soundstage felt a bit more closed-in compared to other premium earbuds, like the Sony WF-1000XM5, which have a more spacious, open feel. The AKs provide a more intimate listening experience, which can add excitement to certain genres.

The bass on these earbuds is another area that may divide listeners. Personally, I enjoy the extra punch the UW100 delivers, especially in the upper bass. It adds weight and impact to the sound, which I love for rock, jazz, and even synthwave. However, I know some audiophiles are picky about bass, and AK’s decision to boost it might not sit well with everyone. For comparison, the Sony WF-1000XM4 has a more balanced bass response, which some may prefer for a flatter sound profile.

Active Noise Cancellation

Now, one of the biggest surprises for me was the lack of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). In a world where most premium earbuds, including the Sony WF-1000XM5 and Apple AirPods Pro 2, come with ANC, this feels like a notable omission. That said, the UW100 has excellent passive noise isolation. Thanks to its snug fit and earplug-like suction effect, it blocks out mid-range sounds and human voices quite effectively. It’s not as quiet as ANC-equipped earbuds, but it gets the job done in many everyday environments.

The lack of ANC might actually appeal to some audiophiles who believe that ANC negatively affects sound quality. Still, for the price, it feels like AK could’ve offered more in terms of noise control.

App and Customization

One area where you can get particularly disappointed was the AK UW100 app. Coming from a brand like Astell & Kern, I expected a robust experience, but what I got was underwhelming. The app only offers 4 EQ presets, and honestly, only the Bass emphasis mode is any good. The others make the sound feel thin and tinny. There’s also no graphic EQ, which is something that many competitors like the Sony WF-1000XM5 offer, giving you way more control over sound.

Worse still, the app has a habit of randomly disconnecting from the earbuds, which gets frustrating. On the customization front, there’s not much you can do. You’re limited to adjusting a couple of gestures on each earbud, and that’s about it. This really hurts the overall user experience, especially when compared to the Sony and Bose apps, which provide more options and are far more stable.

Battery Life

The battery life on the AK UW100 is decent, offering up to 6 hours on the buds and another 24 hours with the case. It also supports wireless charging and multipoint pairing, which is great for connecting to two devices at once.

However, the charging case is quite bulky, almost as large as the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds, which makes portability a bit of a hassle. Plus, while the UW100 has transparency mode with four levels of passthrough, the sound isn’t as natural as I’d like. It’s usable, but there’s some muffling that I didn’t notice in the AirPods Pro 2 or Sony XM5s.

Call Quality: Below Average

If you’re someone who makes a lot of calls, you might want to look elsewhere. The call quality on the UW100 is below average. Background noise cancellation isn’t great, and my voice often sounds distant and muffled. By comparison, the Sony WF-1000XM5 and Apple AirPods Pro 2 are leagues ahead when it comes to voice clarity and noise suppression during calls.

In conclusion, the Astell & Kern UW100 shines where it matters most to audiophiles: sound quality. The audio experience is detailed, smooth, and enjoyable, with a tuning that works well for various genres. If you are expecting it to be best overall, the sad news is it isn’t. The price tag is solely for the sound quality it delivers and that is pretty much it.

If you’re a hardcore audiophile who values sound quality above all else and doesn’t care about ANC or call performance, the UW100 might be worth a try. But for most people, especially at this price point, I’d recommend looking at other options first.

Audio Technica ATH-TWX9

The Audio-Technica ATH-TWX9 is a premium pair of wireless earbuds that are clearly designed to compete with the likes of Sony, Bose, and other high-end audio brands. After spending some time with them, I can say they’ve got a lot going for them, but they also come with a few quirks.

One of the standout features is the support for Sony’s 360 Reality Audio, which delivers an immersive, spatial audio experience. It’s similar to Dolby Atmos but specifically for music. This is great if you’re subscribed to services like Tidal or Amazon Music that support 360 Reality Audio.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t support LDAC, which is something Sony’s own WF-1000XM5 offers, but aptX Adaptive is a solid alternative. It ensures high-quality wireless audio, especially for devices that support Snapdragon Sound, giving the TWX9 an edge in sound quality for Android users.

Active Noise Cancellation

When it comes to active noise canceling (ANC), I found the TWX9 to be impressive. It does a great job at canceling low-frequency noise, catching up-to the XM5 and Bose. For commuting or working in noisy environments, the TWX9 holds up well and won’t disappoint.

Sound Quality

The sound signature is best described as balanced and laid-back. It doesn’t have the punchy bass you get from something like the Jabra Elite 85t or the booming lows of the Sony WF-1000XM5. Instead, it emphasizes the midrange, which is perfect for vocal clarity and instruments like bass guitar. If you listen to a lot of vocal-heavy tracks or genres that thrive on detailed midrange, these will sound excellent. The option to tweak the sound with the A-T Connect app is a nice touch, though the custom EQ doesn’t quite offer the same depth as Sony’s app.

A cool, albeit somewhat gimmicky feature, is the UV-LED sterilization inside the case. It kills some bacteria when the earbuds are stored, which might appeal to more hygiene-conscious users. Personally, I think it’s more of a “nice to have” feature rather than a game-changer. On the downside, the controls can be a bit confusing. With a mix of touchpads and physical buttons, it takes a while to get the hang of which button controls what.

Battery Life

I also wish the battery life were better. At 18 hours total (6 hours in the buds, 12 in the case), it falls short compared to competitors like the AirPods Pro 2 or Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, both of which last longer.

Overall, the Audio-Technica ATH-TWX9 offers rich features and excellent sound quality, especially for those who prioritize clarity and balance over heavy bass. However, the complex controls and average battery life may be a drawback for some. If you’re willing to spend a bit of time mastering the controls and don’t mind charging more frequently, these earbuds are a solid option for audiophiles.

Beyerdynamic Free Byrd

First off, the sound quality is exceptional. Beyerdynamic is known for its audio precision, and the Free Byrds don’t disappoint. Compared to the AirPods Pro 2, I found the Free Byrds to offer more clarity, especially when listening to classical music. The Free Byrds capture every nuance, from the opening chord to the diminished sevenths, with impressive accuracy. The bass is also well-balanced, not overpowering but present enough to give depth to various music genres. Overall, these earbuds outperform the AirPods Pro 2 in terms of clarity and precision.

Customization is another strong point. Using the Beyerdynamic MIY app, you can set up a personalized sound profile tailored to your hearing, which is something you don’t get with a lot of other high-end earbuds. While the AirPods Pro 2 and Sony WF-1000XM5 offer adaptive sound, the Free Byrds go a step further with a hearing test that adjusts the sound frequencies specifically for your ears. There’s also an equalizer if you prefer manual tweaks.

Another feature I loved is the noise cancellation. It’s not quite as aggressive as the Sony WF-1000XM5, but it’s highly effective in most everyday environments like grocery stores or busy streets. The transparency mode is also excellent, allowing you to hear your surroundings when needed, similar to what you get with the AirPods Pro 2.

The ear tips are another standout. One of my biggest issues with some earbuds, including the original AirPods, is that they don’t always fit well. Beyerdynamic solves this by including a range of ear tips, including foam expanding tips, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit for extended use. 

Lastly, I appreciated the wireless charging case with USB-C and Qi wireless charging support. It’s convenient, and charging on a Qi pad is quick and effortless, a feature that’s becoming standard but is still nice to see.

While there’s a lot to love, the Free Byrds aren’t perfect. For starters, the bulkier design might not be for everyone. These earbuds are wider than many competitors, so they may feel a bit more noticeable when worn. If you’re used to the sleek design of the AirPods Pro 2, you might find these a bit cumbersome.

Another potential drawback is the price, the Free Byrds are priced similarly to other premium wireless earbuds. While they offer a lot for the money, it’s still a steep price, especially for users who may not take full advantage of the advanced sound customization features.

Finally, the touch-sensitive controls take some getting used to. While the app shows all the available gestures, the learning curve is steeper compared to AirPods, which have simpler, more intuitive controls.

Overall, the Beyerdynamic Free Byrds are an excellent choice for anyone serious about sound quality and customization. While they may not be as compact as the AirPods Pro 2 or have the noise cancellation prowess of the Sony WF-1000XM5, their clarity, fit, and personalization features make them stand out. If you’re an audiophile or someone who loves tailoring their listening experience, these earbuds are worth the investment.