True wireless earbuds have revolutionized portable audio, providing convenient cordless listening in a compact form factor. With advanced Bluetooth technology and improved battery life, true wireless earbuds have become a popular choice for music, calls, podcasts, audiobooks and more.
In this comprehensive review guide, we dive into the top true wireless earbuds of 2023 to help you find the best pair for your needs and budget.
An Overview of True Wireless Earbuds
True wireless earbuds provide completely cordless listening with separate left and right earbuds that connect wirelessly to your device. This delivers ultimate portability and freedom of movement without cables getting in the way.
Key features of true wireless earbuds include:
- Truly Wireless Design: No wires connecting the earbuds to each other or your device. The earbuds independently connect via Bluetooth.
- Compact Size: The earbuds and charging case are highly portable and pocketable.
- Touch Controls: Control music, calls, volume and voice assistants by tapping the earbuds.
- Noise Isolation: In-ear design and silicone tips block out ambient sound for immersive listening. Some models feature active noise cancellation (ANC).
- Built-in Microphones: Make calls and use voice assistants like Siri, Google Assistant etc.
- Battery Life: Get 4-6 hours per charge, with 15-30 hours total including the charging case. Fast charging is common.
- Charging Case: The case stores and charges the earbuds on the go. Wireless charging cases are available.
- IPX Water Resistance: Protection from sweat and splashes allows workout use.
- Customizable Fit: Multiple eartip sizes ensure a secure in-ear fit. Earbud shape and design varies.
- Special Features: Some earbuds have fitness tracking, ambient listening modes, wear detection, Find My integration and more.
With continuous innovation in recent years, true wireless earbuds now come packed with features at varied price points to suit users’ needs. Let’s look at the top options for 2023.
The Top True Wireless Earbuds of 2023
Best Overall: Apple AirPods Pro 2
With a winning combination of great sound, active noise cancellation, intuitive controls and Apple’s ecosystem integration, the AirPods Pro 2 are the best overall true wireless earbuds for most users.
Key Features:
- Excellent sound quality with dynamic head tracking and rich bass
- Effective adaptive ANC cancels up to 48,000 Hz of ambient noise
- New H2 chip enables touch controls, transparency mode, spatial audio
- 6 hours battery life, 30 hours with charging case
- MagSafe charging case for wireless charging
- IPX4 sweat and water resistance rating
- Eartip fit test ensures optimal in-ear seal
The AirPods Pro 2 deliver significant upgrades over the originals, most notably adding advanced noise cancellation with transparency mode. The sound quality is superb, with spatial audio support through dynamic head tracking.
The new second-generation H2 chip unlocks intuitive touch controls, voice-activated Siri access, and Find My integration. The earbuds seamlessly switch between Apple devices. With great ergonomics for all-day wear and a pocketable charging case, the AirPods Pro 2 are the best true wireless earbuds for the Apple ecosystem.
Best Value: Nothing ear (1)
Delivering impressive features like active noise cancellation, wireless charging and transparency mode at a competitive price point, the Nothing ear (1) offer tremendous value.
Key Features:
- Strong sound quality with rich bass and detailed treble
- Hybrid ANC with three microphones to reduce ambient noise
- Transparency mode lets surrounding sounds pass through
- 5 hours battery life, up to 34 hours with case
- Qi wireless charging case
- IPX4 water and sweat resistance
- Intuitive touch controls
- Unique transparent design
Founded by OnePlus co-founder Carl Pei, Nothing combined quality tech with a standout transparent design in their debut earbuds. Great for Android and iOS users alike, the ear (1) provide powerful ANC, balanced sound with punchy bass, customizable touch controls, Find My Earbud tracking and fast charging – all at an affordable price.
Best for Fitness: Beats Fit Pro
With their sporty wingtip design, sweat resistance and iOS integration, the Beats Fit Pro are ideal true wireless earbuds for fitness and activity.
Key Features:
- Secure fit with flexible, comfort-fit wingtips
- Punchy, motivational sound ideal for workouts
- Active noise cancellation blocks distractions
- Transparency helps you stay aware of surroundings
- 6 hours battery life, 24 hours with case
- IPX4 rating for sweat and water resistance
- Hands-free “Hey Siri” voice activation
- Built-in accelerometer recognizes workout types
Equipped with flexible, fixed-fit wingtips, the Beats Fit Pro lock into your ears and stay put during any workout. The energetic sound will push you through tough training sessions. With great noise isolation for focus, Siri access to control music hands-free, and an Apple H1 chip for iPhone connectivity, the Fit Pro are the ultimate workout earbuds for Apple users.
Best Noise Cancellation: Sony WF-1000XM4
The Sony WF-1000XM4 earbuds provide industry-leading noise cancellation powered by Sony’s integrated V1 processor.
Key Features:
- Class-leading noise cancellation with QN1e processor
- LDAC codec support for Hi-Res Wireless Audio
- Natural, dynamic sound with rich bass
- 8 hours battery life, 24 hours with charging case
- Wireless charging case with quick charging
- IPX4 splash and sweat resistance
- Precise in-ear detection and wear sensors
- Customizable touch controls and EQ
With eight microphones optimized for noise cancellation, the Sony WF-1000XM4 offer the most effective ANC on the market, blocking even busy commuter noise. The musical sound impresses with integrity and energy. Sony’s audiophile technology like LDAC support delivers exceptional wireless fidelity. With long battery life, wear detection, an intuitive app and more, these are the top noise-cancelling true wireless earbuds available.
Best Sound Quality: Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3
Audiophiles seeking superb sound in a true wireless form factor will love the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3.
Key Features:
- Rich, energetic, detailed audio with custom EQ
- Effective active noise cancellation
- Transparent hearing for ambient awareness
- 7 hours battery life, 28 hours with case
- Qi wireless charging support
- IPX4 splash resistance rating
- Intuitive touch controls with configurable options
- Support for AAC and aptX Adaptive codecs
With a gorgeous natural sound powered by 7mm dynamic drivers, the Momentum True Wireless 3 beautifully convey every detail and nuance. The lively, spacious sound can be customized with the app’s built-in EQ. Excellent noise cancellation blocks distractions without compromising audio quality. With stylish aesthetics, app control, wearing detection and great battery life, these are the ultimate audiophile earbuds.
How to Choose the Best True Wireless Earbuds
With many options on the market, here are the key factors to consider when choosing true wireless earbuds:
Sound Quality
The first priority is sound – you want earbuds that sound great for your preferred music genres and audio content. Check frequency response, driver specs and sound profiles. A more balanced, neutral sound is ideal for audiophiles, while boosted bass is popular for fitness. Try to listen before buying.
Noise Cancellation
Active noise cancelling (ANC) earbuds use microphones to counteract ambient noise electronically, removing distractions. Look for effective ANC with minimal hiss. Transparency mode is useful to let in sounds when needed. Noise isolation from the earbud tips also attenuates noise passively.
Comfort and Fit
Since you’ll be wearing them for potentially hours on end, comfort is critical. Look for lightweight earbuds with an ergonomic design that feels good in your ears, along with soft silicone/foam eartips that create a tight seal. Proper fit ensures both comfort and optimal sound quality.
Battery Life
While most true wireless earbuds last 4-6 hours per charge, maximize battery life by looking for models that push close to 8 hours playback. Multiple extra charges in the case takes total battery life up to 24-30 hours typically. Fast charging and wireless charging are also useful features.
Controls and Connectivity
Touch controls on the earbuds allow adjusting volume, music playback, calls, activating voice assistants and sometimes ANC/transparency modes. Look for customizable controls and wear/in-ear detection that auto pauses audio when removing an earbud. Seamless Bluetooth connectivity between devices is vital.
Durability and Protection
Check the IP rating to ensure sweat protection and water resistance, crucial for exercising. Look for sturdy construction that can handle some drops. A secure in-ear fit also keeps the earbuds safely in place. A charging case adds protection when not in use.
Value for Money
Set a budget while keeping in mind that higher prices typically offer better sound, features and design. That said, consider value earbuds that pack impressive specs into affordable packages. Sale prices and discounts can also help stretch your dollar further.
Brand and Reviews
Stick with established audio brands offering the latest Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity and app control. Check professional reviews and user feedback to identify standout models loved for their sound, comfort and reliability. Avoid questionable no-name brands.
FAQ About True Wireless Earbuds
What are the best true wireless earbuds under $100?
Some of the top true wireless earbuds under $100 are the Anker Soundcore Liberty Air 2 Pro, FIIL T1 Lite, JLab Go Air Pop and Earfun Air Pro. These offer good sound, decent battery life and nice features like USB-C charging at an affordable price point.
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How do you choose the right eartip size for true wireless earbuds?
Start with the stock medium-sized tips pre-installed, then try the fit. Good seal means the eartips are fully inserted in your ear canal, while staying comfortable without pain. If the fit is loose, try a smaller tip. Larger tips can provide a more secure fit if the medium is loose. Get different sizes if needed.
Do true wireless earbuds work for phone calls?
Yes, phone call performance is decent on most true wireless earbuds. Noise cancellation models are ideal for blocking background noise when on calls. Dual microphones capture your voice clearly while acoustic mesh shields reduce wind noise. Just be sure to test call quality before buying if that’s important.
How long do true wireless earbuds last before needing a recharge?
Average battery life is 4-6 hours of continuous playback on a single charge, with the charging case providing an additional 3-4 charges for 15-30 hours total. Some high-end earbuds last up to 8 hours per charge. Quick charging gives around 1 hour of use from 5-10 minutes of charging.
Can you shower or swim with true wireless earbuds?
No, true wireless earbuds are not designed to be submerged in water or used during showers. Light rain or sweat is not an issue for certain models with IPX4 water resistance, but they cannot handle getting soaked. Look for waterproof-rated earbuds specifically designed for swimming and showering.
The Top True Wireless Earbuds of 2023
Our Picks
| Earbuds | Key Features | Price |
|-|-|-|
| Apple AirPods Pro 2 | Effective ANC, spatial audio, H2 chip, Find My integration | $249 |
| Nothing ear (1) | ANC, transparency, wireless charging case, unique design | $99 |
| Beats Fit Pro | Secure fit, sweat resistance, sound boost for workouts | $199 |
| Sony WF-1000XM4 | Class-leading noise cancellation, Hi-Res audio, LDAC codec | $279 |
| Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 | Superb, customizable sound, effective ANC, transparency mode | $249 |
Best Under $100
- Anker Soundcore Liberty Air 2 Pro
- FIIL T1 Lite
- JLab Go Air Pop
- Earfun Air Pro
Best Noise Cancelling
- Apple AirPods Pro 2
- Sony WF-1000XM4
- Bose QuietComfort Earbuds
- Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3
Best for iPhone Users
- Apple AirPods Pro 2
- Beats Fit Pro
- Beats Studio Buds
- JBL Reflect Flow Pro
Best for Android Users
- Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro
- Google Pixel Buds Pro
- Nothing ear (1)
- Soundcore by Anker Life P3
Best for Workouts & Running
- Beats Fit Pro
- Jaybird Vista 2
- JBL Reflect Flow Pro
- Jabra Elite 7 Active
Get Totally Cordless Listening Freedom with the Best True Wireless Earbuds
True wireless earbuds free you from cables while delivering features like noise cancellation, transparency mode, sweat resistance and more in an ultra-portable form factor. Models from trusted brands provide great sound quality for music along with excellent microphone performance for calls.
Based on our in-depth analysis, the Apple AirPods Pro 2 are the best overall true wireless earbuds, with superb audio, adaptive ANC and seamless integration with Apple devices. Nothing ear (1) deliver active noise cancellation and wireless charging at an unbeatable value. For fitness buffs, the Beats Fit Pro offers a secure wingtip design and energizing sound. Sony’s class-leading noise cancellation shines with the WF-1000XM4. And audiophiles will cherish the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 for their pristine customizable sound.
With this definitive guide highlighting all the top options and key buying factors, you’re now equipped to find your perfect pair of true wireless earbuds. Experience music, calls, podcasts and more in total freedom with a set of top-notch cordless earbuds that best match your usage and budget. The freedom of great-sounding wireless audio awaits!
