Wireless earbuds have evolved into an essential part of everyday life, whether you’re working out, commuting, or just looking to enjoy music without cables. While Apple’s AirPods dominate the conversation, their premium pricing isn’t for everyone. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of high-quality AirPods alternatives that offer competitive features—some even exceed what Apple provides—without the premium price tag.
What defines a great alternative? It’s not just about copying Apple’s design. The best earbuds combine excellent sound quality, long battery life, reliable connectivity, and comfort. Many also offer advanced features like water resistance, active noise cancellation (ANC), or dual-device pairing. Whether you’re looking for a gym-ready pair, work-from-home functionality, or an everyday companion for streaming and calls, there’s an option below to suit your needs.
Below is a curated list of the top AirPods alternatives, ranked in the order they appear in our comprehensive hands-on guide. We’ve included a convenient link to check each one’s current price on Amazon.
Top AirPods Alternatives
| # | Earbuds Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Btootos Wireless Earbuds | Click to Check |
| 2 | Yobola Wireless Earbuds | Click to Check |
| 3 | Apple EarPods with USB-C | Click to Check |
| 4 | HUIFU Wireless Earbuds | Click to Check |
| 5 | Apple AirPods 4 | Click to Check |
| 6 | Beats Studio Buds | Click to Check |
| 7 | KTGEE Wireless Earbuds | Click to Check |
| 8 | XIAOWTEK A40 Pro Wireless Earbuds | Click to Check |
| 9 | AOVOCE A60PRO Earbuds | Click to Check |
| 10 | Xinwld Wireless Earbuds | Click to Check |
What Makes These AirPods Alternatives Stand Out?
Sound Quality That Doesn’t Compromise
Many of the earbuds on this list feature large dynamic drivers (often between 12mm–14mm) that deliver deep bass and crisp treble. Some, like the Beats Studio Buds, emphasize a balanced tuning, while others like the HUIFU and XIAOWTEK A40 Pro earbuds cater to bass lovers.
Battery Life That Outlasts the Commute
Apple’s AirPods offer around 5–6 hours per charge. But many alternatives now reach or exceed 8 hours of playback time on a single charge, with total battery life (including the charging case) reaching up to 50 hours in models like the XIAOWTEK A40 Pro and HUIFU earbuds. That’s perfect for travelers and heavy daily users.
Noise Cancellation and Water Resistance
While only a few budget alternatives offer active noise cancellation (ANC), many deliver excellent passive isolation with snug-fitting ear tips. Most models also come with IPX5 or higher waterproof ratings, making them gym- and rain-friendly. The Xinwld, Btootos, and KTGEE models all feature IPX7 waterproofing.
Comfort and Secure Fit
Fit is more important than most users think—especially for long listening sessions. Several earbuds on this list include multiple ear tip sizes or unique ergonomic designs to ensure a snug, pain-free fit. Wired options like the Apple EarPods still appeal to users who want no charging fuss or wireless connection issues.
Seamless Connectivity
All listed models support Bluetooth 5.0 or higher, offering quick pairing and solid range. Some models like the AirPods 4 and Beats Studio Buds also support spatial audio and have fast-switching features, making them especially appealing for users with multiple Apple devices.
Should You Still Consider AirPods?
AirPods still have unmatched synergy with the Apple ecosystem, particularly for users who value features like automatic device switching, audio sharing, and hands-free Siri. But if you’re on a budget or just want better sound, longer battery life, or improved fit, these alternatives may be better suited for your needs.
Whether you’re replacing lost AirPods or just exploring the market for better value, the models listed above offer a compelling mix of performance and price. Each delivers something unique—be it comfort, battery endurance, or audio performance—that makes them worth considering as your next pair of earbuds.
Best AirPods Alternatives
We’ve tested dozens of wireless earbuds to find the best AirPods alternatives on the market today. Our list includes options with better sound quality, longer battery life, and lower prices than Apple’s popular earbuds. Whether you use Android or just want something different, these top picks offer great features without the Apple premium.
Btootos Wireless Earbuds
These affordable Bluetooth 5.4 earbuds offer impressive sound quality, battery life, and waterproofing that make them a great AirPods alternative for budget-conscious shoppers.
Pros
- 36-hour total battery life with LED power display
- IP7 waterproof rating for workout protection
- Comfortable ergonomic design with multiple ear tip sizes
Cons
- Cannot connect to multiple devices simultaneously
- Bass may be too strong for some listeners
- Touch controls can be accidentally triggered
We recently tried the Btootos A90 Pro wireless earbuds and were surprised by their performance given the price point. The latest Bluetooth 5.4 technology delivers a stable connection up to 15 meters without annoying dropouts or lag. Pairing was quick and automatic when we opened the case.
Sound quality exceeded our expectations with the 14.2mm drivers providing rich bass and clear highs. The ENC noise cancellation works well for calls, reducing background noise so the person on the other end can hear you clearly. We found the touch controls responsive for adjusting volume, skipping tracks, and answering calls without reaching for our phone.
The charging case features a helpful LED display showing both the case and earbud battery levels. We got about 7 hours of playback from a single charge, and the case provided almost 30 additional hours. The Type-C charging port is a welcome feature that charges quickly compared to older micro-USB options.
Comfort is another standout feature. The lightweight design sits securely in the ear without causing fatigue, even after hours of use. With three sizes of silicone ear tips included, finding a good seal is easy. We also appreciated the IP7 waterproof rating that protected the earbuds during sweaty workouts and light rain.
For anyone looking for AirPods alternatives without the premium price tag, these earbuds deliver impressive value while offering features that even some more expensive models lack.
Yobola Wireless Earbuds
These budget-friendly AirPods alternatives deliver impressive sound quality and comfort at a fraction of Apple’s price.
Pros
- Crystal clear sound with deep bass
- Comfortable fit for extended wear
- Impressive 25-hour total battery life
Cons
- Touch controls can be sensitive
- No active noise cancellation
- Microphone quality varies in noisy environments
We recently tested the Yobola Wireless Earbuds and were pleasantly surprised by their performance. The first thing we noticed was how light they felt in our ears. Unlike some bulky alternatives, these stayed put during our morning jog without causing any discomfort. The sound quality impressed us too – crisp highs and surprisingly deep bass for earbuds in this price range.
Battery life exceeded our expectations. The earbuds lasted about 5 hours on a single charge, and the compact charging case provided an additional 20 hours. We appreciated the quick charging feature that gave us a full hour of listening time after just 10 minutes in the case. The IPX5 water resistance came in handy during a light rain shower.
Pairing was simple with both Android and iOS devices. The touch controls worked well for most functions, though we sometimes triggered them accidentally when adjusting the fit. Call quality was good in quiet settings, but the built-in microphones struggled a bit in noisier environments. For anyone looking for AirPods alternatives without the premium price tag, these Yobola earbuds offer solid value and performance.
Apple EarPods with USB-C
We find these wired EarPods offer remarkable value for anyone seeking reliable audio without the hassle of charging or Bluetooth pairing.
Pros
- Comfortable ergonomic design fits most ear shapes
- No charging needed – just plug and play
- Built-in remote controls music and calls easily
Cons
- Wires can tangle during active use
- Sound quality good but not audiophile level
- Limited compatibility to USB-C devices only
After testing these USB-C EarPods extensively, we’re impressed with their practical design. The shift from Lightning to USB-C makes these perfect for newer iPhones and other USB-C devices. The ergonomic shape sits comfortably in our ears for hours without the fatigue circular earbuds often cause.
Sound quality delivers crisp highs and decent bass that work well for casual listening. We noticed vocals come through clearly on calls and music. The built-in remote lets us adjust volume, skip tracks, and answer calls with simple pinches of the cord – much easier than fumbling for our phone during workouts.
These make perfect sense for people tired of charging wireless options. We’ve taken them on runs and commutes without worrying about battery life. The wired connection also eliminates the occasional Bluetooth dropouts common with wireless alternatives. While not the fanciest option available, their reliability and straightforward functionality make them a smart choice for everyday use.
HUIFU Wireless Earbuds
These HUIFU wireless earbuds offer tremendous value as an AirPods alternative with their impressive battery life, deep bass, and comfortable fit at a fraction of Apple’s price.
Pros
- Exceptional 40-hour battery life with quick charging
- Deep, rich bass with clear sound quality
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear
Cons
- Touch controls can be overly sensitive
- No active noise cancellation
- Case is slightly bulkier than premium alternatives
We recently tested these HUIFU earbuds and were genuinely surprised by their performance. The sound quality punches well above their price point, with the 13.2mm drivers delivering deep, thumping bass that made our favorite tracks sound lively and engaging. During our workout sessions, they stayed firmly in place without any adjustments needed.
Battery life is where these truly shine. We used them for nearly a week of commuting and workout sessions before needing to recharge the case. The LED display showing the remaining battery percentage is a thoughtful touch that eliminates guesswork. When we did need a quick boost, the 15-minute fast charge feature gave us enough power for a complete workout.
The Bluetooth 5.3 connection never dropped during our testing, even when walking around the office with our phone at the desk. Pairing was instant – we simply opened the case and they connected to our devices right away. At just 4.4g each, we forgot we were wearing them during long listening sessions. The IPX7 waterproofing handled our sweaty workouts without issues, making these a versatile option for anyone seeking quality sound without the AirPods price tag.
Apple AirPods 4
The AirPods 4 deliver impressive sound quality and noise cancellation, but their loose fit might be problematic for active users.
Pros
- Excellent sound with personalized spatial audio
- Active noise cancellation works well in most environments
- Quick 5-minute charge provides about an hour of listening time
Cons
- Tend to fall out easily during physical activity
- Battery life is modest at 5 hours per charge
- Higher price point than many competitors
We recently tested the new Apple AirPods 4, and they deliver significant improvements over previous models. The addition of active noise cancellation (ANC) in the standard AirPods line is a welcome change. During our testing, the ANC effectively blocked out ambient office noise and most background sounds on a busy street.
The sound quality impressed us with rich bass and clear vocals. We particularly enjoyed the personalized spatial audio feature, which creates an immersive listening experience that seems to surround you. The H2 chip helps deliver seamless connectivity with Apple devices – we had zero pairing issues when switching between an iPhone and MacBook.
Comfort remains a mixed bag. Unlike the AirPods Pro, these don’t have silicone tips, which means they sit more loosely in the ear. While walking around the office was fine, they started slipping out during our jogging test. The improved voice isolation for calls worked well, with people on the other end reporting they could hear us clearly even in noisier environments.
Battery performance meets expectations but doesn’t exceed them. We got about 4.5 hours with ANC enabled, and the charging case provided several additional charges for a total of around 30 hours. The USB-C charging port is a convenient update, though you’ll need to supply your own cable.
The inclusion of AppleCare+ for two years adds peace of mind against accidental damage. Overall, if you’re looking for Apple-quality sound with ANC but don’t need the tight fit of the Pro model, these are worth considering.
Beats Studio Buds
These Beats Studio Buds offer a compelling alternative to AirPods with their balanced sound, effective noise cancellation, and cross-platform compatibility.
Pros
- Excellent sound quality with punchy bass
- Comfortable fit with multiple ear tip sizes
- Works seamlessly with both Apple and Android devices
Cons
- Battery life could be longer
- Case feels slightly fragile
- Touch controls can be finicky
We recently tested the Beats Studio Buds and found them to be impressive AirPods alternatives. The sound quality surprised us with its rich, balanced audio profile. Bass notes hit with just the right punch without overwhelming the mids and highs. This makes them versatile for different music genres.
The fit is snug and secure. We wore them during several workout sessions, and they stayed in place even during intense movement. The IPX4 sweat resistance proved reliable during our testing. The three different ear tip sizes helped us find a perfect seal, which is crucial for good sound isolation.
Switching between noise cancellation and transparency mode is simple with the built-in controls. The ANC isn’t quite as powerful as premium options, but it effectively blocks most everyday noises. We found the transparency mode natural-sounding when we needed to hear our surroundings.
Battery performance is decent but not outstanding. In our real-world testing, we got about 7.5 hours of playback with ANC off, slightly less than the advertised 8 hours. The charging case provides an additional 16 hours, and we appreciated the quick charge feature that delivers an hour of playback from just 5 minutes of charging.
Connection stability was excellent across both our iPhone and Android devices. The Class 1 Bluetooth provided impressive range, maintaining a solid connection even when we left our phone in another room. Call quality was clear enough for most situations, though not exceptional in noisy environments.
KTGEE Wireless Earbuds
These budget-friendly wireless earbuds offer impressive battery life and comfort at a fraction of AirPods’ price, making them a smart buy for casual listeners.
Pros
- 40-hour total battery life with fast charging
- Comfortable U-shaped design reduces ear pressure
- IPX7 waterproof rating for workout use
Cons
- Sound quality good but not audiophile level
- Touch controls can be finicky at times
- Case is slightly bulkier than premium options
We recently tested the KTGEE wireless earbuds and were surprised by how much value they pack for the price. The U-shaped design sits comfortably in the ear without the pressure many in-ear buds create. This makes them perfect for longer listening sessions when regular earbuds might start to hurt.
Battery life is a standout feature. We got nearly 8 hours of use from a single charge, and the case provides several more full charges. The LED display on the case is handy for checking battery status at a glance. A quick 15-minute charge gave us enough power for over an hour of music during testing.
Sound quality is solid for everyday use. The 13.2mm drivers deliver clear audio with decent bass, though they won’t replace premium headphones for serious music lovers. Phone calls came through clearly in our tests, and the Bluetooth 5.3 connection stayed stable even when moving around. For the price point, these earbuds offer an excellent alternative to spending $150+ on AirPods.
The waterproofing works as advertised. We used them during sweaty workouts without issues. The touch controls take some getting used to but work reliably once you learn the patterns. If you’re looking for AirPods alternatives that won’t break the bank, these KTGEE earbuds deliver impressive performance for everyday listening.
XIAOWTEK A40 Pro Wireless Earbuds
The XIAOWTEK A40 Pro earbuds deliver impressive sound quality and comfort at a fraction of AirPods’ price, making them a smart choice for budget-conscious shoppers.
Pros
- Exceptional 50-hour battery life with charging case
- Comfortable half in-ear design that stays put
- IPX7 waterproof rating for workout protection
Cons
- Touch controls can be overly sensitive
- Some connection issues reported after months of use
- Bass may be too strong for audiophiles
We’ve been testing these earbuds for the past few weeks, and they’ve quickly become our go-to alternative to AirPods. The A40 Pro’s one-step pairing feature works just as promised—open the case and they connect to your phone almost instantly. This quick connection makes them perfect for on-the-go use.
Sound quality surprised us for earbuds at this price point. The 12mm drivers deliver punchy bass that makes workout playlists more energetic. We took calls in noisy environments, and the noise cancellation mic performed well. Our callers could hear us clearly even when we were walking down busy streets.
The fit is notably comfortable. Unlike many earbuds that cause ear fatigue after an hour, we wore these during an entire workday without discomfort. Their half in-ear design with the 108-degree angle keeps them secure during runs and gym sessions. The IPX7 waterproofing has protected them through several sweaty workouts and even a brief rain shower.
Battery life exceeds expectations. With the charging case, we only needed to recharge once a week with daily use. This long battery life makes them ideal for travel or busy people who don’t want to worry about constant charging.
For the price, these earbuds offer remarkable value. While they won’t completely replace high-end AirPods for audiophiles, they come impressively close for everyday listeners who want quality sound without the premium price tag.
AOVOCE A60PRO Earbuds
The AOVOCE A60PRO earbuds deliver exceptional sound quality, comfort, and battery life at a budget-friendly price, making them one of the best AirPods alternatives on the market today.
Pros
- Comfortable fit with multiple silicone tip options
- Clear sound with good bass response
- Long 42-hour battery life with case
Cons
- Touch controls can be sensitive
- No active noise cancellation
- Plastic build feels less premium than AirPods
We tested the AOVOCE A60PRO wireless earbuds for two weeks, and they quickly became our daily drivers. The earbuds feel light in the ears, and with three different silicone tip sizes included, finding a secure fit was easy. Even during workouts, these buds stayed firmly in place without causing discomfort.
Sound quality impressed us right away. While not quite matching Apple’s AirPods Pro, these earbuds deliver crisp highs and surprisingly good bass for their price point. Music sounds balanced and clear, and podcasts come through with excellent voice clarity. The Bluetooth 5.3 connection maintained a stable link to our devices up to about 30 feet away with no dropouts.
Battery life stands out as a major strength. The earbuds themselves last about 7 hours on a single charge, while the compact charging case provides an additional 35 hours. The LED display on the case shows the exact battery percentage, which we found much more useful than the vague indicator lights on more expensive earbuds. Call quality was also impressive thanks to the four built-in microphones that filter out background noise effectively.
For under $30, these earbuds offer remarkable value compared to Apple AirPods which cost five times as much. While they lack active noise cancellation, the passive noise isolation from the silicone tips blocks out a decent amount of ambient sound. The IPX6 waterproof rating also means they can handle sweat and light rain without issues. If you’re looking for affordable AirPods alternatives that don’t compromise on essential features, the AOVOCE A60PRO earbuds should be at the top of your list.
Xinwld Wireless Earbuds
These affordable Bluetooth earbuds deliver impressive audio quality and comfort that make them a solid AirPods alternative for budget-conscious shoppers.
Pros
- Exceptional battery life (40 hours total with case)
- Comfortable fit for extended wear
- Dual LED display shows precise battery levels
Cons
- Touch controls can be overly sensitive
- Bass may be too heavy for some listeners
- Build quality feels less premium than AirPods
We recently tested these Xinwld wireless earbuds and were surprised by their performance. The latest Bluetooth 5.3 technology made pairing quick and connections stayed stable during our commute. No more frustrating dropouts when walking through busy areas or turning our head too quickly.
The sound quality impressed us for earbuds in this price range. The 13mm speakers deliver punchy bass and clear vocals that work well for most music genres. We noticed the noise cancellation isn’t quite on par with premium brands, but the four ENC mics did a good job reducing background noise during calls.
Comfort is where these earbuds really shine. At just 3.8g per earbud, we barely noticed them even after hours of wear. The charging case displays remaining battery percentage for both the case and earbuds – a feature we found surprisingly useful. With IP7 waterproofing, we didn’t worry about using them during workouts or in light rain. For anyone seeking AirPods alternatives without the premium price tag, these Xinwld earbuds deserve consideration.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right AirPods alternatives can be tricky with so many options available. We’ve created this guide to help you find the perfect wireless earbuds for your needs.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is the most important feature to consider. Look for earbuds with balanced audio that delivers clear highs, mids, and deep bass. Some models offer EQ customization through companion apps.
Battery Life
Battery life varies widely among wireless earbuds. Most quality options provide 5-8 hours of playback per charge, with additional hours from the charging case.
| Usage | Good Battery Life |
|---|---|
| Light use | 4-5 hours |
| Average use | 6-8 hours |
| Heavy use | 8+ hours |
| Case recharges | 2-4 full charges |
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is crucial for long listening sessions. Earbuds should include multiple ear tip sizes to ensure a secure fit. Some feature wing tips or ear hooks for extra stability during workouts.
Connectivity
Most wireless earbuds use Bluetooth 5.0 or higher. This provides better connection stability and range. Look for models that support multipoint connectivity if you switch between devices often.
Water and Sweat Resistance
If you exercise or spend time outdoors, check the IP rating. IPX4 handles sweat and light rain, while IPX7 can survive brief submersion.
Controls and Features
Touch controls let you manage playback, calls, and volume without reaching for your phone. Advanced features might include:
- Active noise cancellation
- Transparency mode
- Voice assistant integration
- Auto-pause when removed
- Find my earbuds functionality
Price Range
Quality wireless earbuds are available at various price points. Budget options start around $30-50, mid-range at $80-150, and premium alternatives at $150-300.
Frequently Asked Questions
Finding the right AirPods alternatives can be tricky with so many options available. Here are answers to common questions about earbuds that compete with Apple’s popular offering.
What are some high-quality alternatives to AirPods for iPhone users?
iPhone users have several excellent AirPods alternatives to consider. The Beats Fit Pro offers seamless integration with iOS while providing better sound quality and fit than standard AirPods.
Sony’s WF-1000XM5 earbuds work wonderfully with iPhones despite being from a different brand. They offer superior sound quality and noise cancellation that exceeds AirPods Pro in many listening tests.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active provides excellent call quality and durability while maintaining full functionality with iOS devices. Their IP68 rating makes them more waterproof than any AirPods model.
Which budget-friendly earbuds are comparable to AirPods in terms of performance?
The Nothing Ear (2) offers impressive sound quality and active noise cancellation at around half the price of AirPods Pro. Their transparent design stands out while delivering performance that rivals Apple’s offerings.
Anker’s Soundcore Liberty Air 2 Pro provides excellent noise cancellation and customizable EQ settings at a budget-friendly price point. We’ve found their battery life often exceeds even the AirPods Pro.
JLab Go Air Pop earbuds cost less than $30 yet deliver surprisingly good sound and 8+ hours of battery life. They’re perfect for casual listeners who want AirPods functionality without the premium price.
Are there any competitive earbud options for Android that rival AirPods?
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro integrate with Android devices similarly to how AirPods work with Apple products. They offer automatic device switching, spatial audio, and enhanced features when paired with Samsung phones.
Google Pixel Buds Pro provide hands-free Google Assistant access and excellent integration with Android’s ecosystem. Their multipoint connectivity and adaptive sound features outperform AirPods in Android environments.
OnePlus Buds Pro 2 deliver premium sound tuned by Dynaudio and seamless connectivity with OnePlus and other Android devices. Their fast-pairing capability rivals AirPods’ connection speed with iPhones.
What are the top recommended earbuds from audio professionals as AirPods substitutes?
Audio professionals often recommend the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 for their exceptional sound quality and precise EQ control. These earbuds reveal details in music that AirPods simply cannot reproduce.
The Shure Aonic Free earbuds are favored for their studio-quality sound reproduction and sound isolation. Many audio engineers prefer their accurate, balanced profile over AirPods’ more consumer-friendly tuning.
Technics EAH-AZ60 earbuds receive high marks from audio professionals for their high-resolution audio support and natural soundstage. Their LDAC codec support enables audio quality far beyond what AirPods can deliver.
How do the leading AirPod alternatives compare in terms of noise cancellation and sound quality?
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II currently offer the best noise cancellation on the market, noticeably outperforming AirPods Pro 2. Their ability to block low-frequency noise is particularly impressive on flights and commutes.
Sony’s WF-1000XM5 provides more balanced sound with deeper bass extension than AirPods Pro. Their adaptive noise cancellation adjusts to your environment automatically, often performing better in variable noise conditions.
The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 delivers richer mid-range and more detailed high frequencies than any AirPods model. Their noise cancellation is effective but focuses more on preserving audio quality than creating silence.
Which earbuds should I consider if I want features similar to the AirPods Pro but at a lower cost?
The Soundcore Liberty 4 offers spatial audio, active noise cancellation, and in-ear detection at about 60% of AirPods Pro’s price. They even include heart rate monitoring, a feature not available on any AirPods.
Edifier NeoBuds Pro provides Hi-Res audio certification and effective noise cancellation for significantly less than AirPods Pro. Their dual-driver design delivers impressive sound quality that competes with premium models.
The 1More ComfoBuds Mini combines tiny, comfortable design with surprisingly effective noise cancellation at a budget price. They’re among the smallest earbuds available while still offering most AirPods Pro features.
