Tech & LifestyleEarbuds

Best Earbuds, according to Reddit

We analyzed 44 Reddit threads and 5,065 comments to rank the 10 best earbuds. Reddit's top pick: Sony WF-1000XM5.

44 threads reviewed

Updated October 2026

Top 3 at a glance

according to Reddit

1

Sony

WF-1000XM5

2

Shokz

3

Technics

AZ80

1

Best Overall

Sony

WF-1000XM5

67% positive

12 Reddit mentions · from 12 users

Our take: The Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds seem to be the talk of the town right now. Folks are raving about the fantastic noise cancellation and impressive audio quality.

What people are saying

u/priest2705Positive

I've had Sennheiser Momentum TW 2, 3 and 4. In fact, I bought the 3's twice. Sound quality is fantastic, and didn't have any issues until the TW4, when people started complaining that they couldn't hear me. Apparently, was having some mic issues.…

Then, they would disconnect in the middle of a call. So, I finally decided to try something new. Got the Sony XM5,s about 2 weeks ago and couldn't be more happy. They sound good (not Sennheiser good), but the mic quality has been on point, and they don't disconnect. So, for right now, they'll do

1

u/ernests1Positive

"best" is really subjective, we all have different needs, but my list would be something like this:

1. Sony WF-1000XM5 - Top Choice 2. Earfun Air - Best Budget Pick (under $50) 3. Sony WF-C700N - Best Mid-Range (under $100) 4. Sony WF-C500 - Best…

Battery Life 5. AirPods Pro 2 - Best For iOS

it depends on the budget, your iOS, etc. You can find the links with the best prices here. I hope this helps with your search for the best earbuds.

3

u/Wal80Positive

I've got Sony WF-1000XM5 for everyday on my phone, and the Arctis are strictly for gaming... it's perfect really only be bluetooth paired to my Ally and plug and play the dongle into my Xbox, ps or switch as needed

Especially if space is an issue…

these seem like a decent all rounder with minimal hassle

2

u/awoodbyPositive

I Love my xm5's. They're not my car or home audiophile systems, but they're damn good. I love that they do ANC OR you can have them still play outside noises really well, important to me listening at work or walking/biking where I Want to hear what's…

around me.

1

r/HeadphoneAdvice

u/DanteWolfsongPositive

if you really want to spend $200 then get the new Sony ones, they have best in class ANC. If you want value though, I've heard great things about the EarFun Air Pro 4 for like $70

2

r/HeadphoneAdvice

u/Crazy-Feature1275Positive

Sony wf-1000xm5s won’t do you wrong. They’re the best in sound quality, most consistent ANC and best in features. Well with the $300

2

u/HaveverPositive

Sony WF-1000XM5 is my top pick.

4

2

Shokz

100% positive

9 Reddit mentions · from 9 users

Our take: If you're an athlete or just want to stay safe and aware while listening to audio, the Shokz line of bone conduction headphones seems to be a crowd favorite. People love how they allow you to hear your music while keeping your ears open to your environment.

What people are saying

u/MudNext5256Positive

As others have said, Shokz, for so many reasons. Mine were the best investment I’ve ever made in terms of my running loadout.

0

r/runninglifestyle

u/brac20Positive

I have Shokz Openfit 2 and I love them. They get pretty loud and i don't tend to have trouble hearing my audiobook.

1

r/runninglifestyle

u/goplacidly8Positive

I'm a huge fan of Shokz. I have the OpenRuns, but they now have a clip-on earbud, if you really prefer them.

0

r/runninglifestyle

u/Jealous-Key-7465Positive

Shokz Open Pro 2 are significantly better than the original Open Pro.

1

r/runninglifestyle

u/geoffwilliams336Positive

Ditch earbuds and go with some Shokz

24

r/runninglifestyle

u/cucumbear3Positive

Shokz are the only answer

31

r/runninglifestyle

u/Dblock780Positive

Shokz OpenDots for me.

1

r/runninglifestyle

u/DelBocaVistaRealtor-Positive

This is the way.

2

r/runninglifestyle

3

Technics

AZ80

90% positive

10 Reddit mentions · from 10 users

Our take: The Technics AZ80 earbuds are frequently recommended for their excellent audio fidelity and premium build quality. However, a few Redditors have reported experiencing some connectivity problems, so it's worth considering that potential downside.

What people are saying

u/lukekartsPositive

I have tried: Sennheiser MTW2 & 3, Technics AZ80, Sony WFahjifbnsdkjdf3, Airpods Pro 2 and Galaxy Buds Pro 2. I've also tried a couple of cheaper brands (Anker) but I can't remember the model names and to me they just sounded much worse than my old…

wired Soundmagics. I can't really comment on ANC/Mic much as I use them for music, but I can certainly comment on durability.

The Sennheisers probably sounded the best out of the box but they lasted just over 1 year before one bud stopped working, so I can never in good faith recommend them. The Sony also only lasted one year before one bud stopped working, they sounded better after some EQ tuning but again can't recommend them for reliability. I sold the free Buds Pro 2 I got with my phone. They were quite good but just sounded worse than my current pair and didn't really fit my ears so well. The Airpods sounded by far the worst of the bunch so I couldn't recommend them if music is a priority, though they're probably best for everything else (mic/calls/ANC).

I am currently using the Technics AZ80. They took some EQ tuning and bedding in but they sound amazing across multiple genres and they have lasted me two years. The mic is shit though. I beleive the AZ100 fixed this and a reported battery life issue so it would be worth looking into them if you want a more premium option.

4

r/LinusTechTips

u/HarvisonJamesIIIPositive

I have the AZ80's coming in Tuesday. I also need major noise cancellation.

I have iPods pro 2's and Sony XM5's. My old 4's died. I have tried 10 different manufacturers tips with the XM5's. If I get a comfortable set, little to no noise…

cancellation. The Sonic Foam are very uncomfortable, but have superb sound quality and great noise cancellation. Anything on the XM4's canceled sound way better than the 5's. The AirPods Pro 2's are really good for most of my noise at work, but deep rumble comes in depending on the job.

The good news, I have some Comply tips for the XM5's that are comfortable and fairly decent for noise cancellation that may be great when the AZ80's come in.

Keeping my fingers crossed.

2

u/[deleted]Positive

I suggest checking out the Technics AZ80 Premium Earbuds. Amazon These Hi-Fi True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds are known for their advanced noise canceling, 3 device multipoint connectivity, and wireless charging. They also offer Hi-Res audio and…

enhanced calling capabilities, making them one of the best high-end elite earbuds for around $300. For a more budget-friendly option under $70, consider these: Find out more about the JLab Air ANC Gen 2 Earbuds here. The Air ANC Gen 2 True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds are a great alternative. They feature active noise cancellation, a low-latency movie mode, and excellent performance for around $70.

1

u/hungryhummusheadPositive

I also really enjoyed the Sennheiser MTW4s when I was trying to get my next pair of truly wireless! Sound was great. Good pick.

I ultimately returned them in favor of the Technics AZ80, mainly because the in-call controls are better for me. I also…

use my ear buds for Teams calls pretty much all day for work, so that was important for me. Both of those are some great sounding earbuds though!

I also tested the Technics AZ100 when they came out but ultimately returned those. I greatly prefer the comfort and feel of the AZ80, while the sound quality difference was negligible for me. I also had an easier time finding the right EQ with the 80s than the 100s.

1

u/simplecat1Positive

I got a set of az80s recently for around 100$, and I love them. That's what I do, get a previous gen flagship set.

2

u/Capid1Positive

On just noise canceling I’d go Bose or XM5. However my Technics AZ80 with comply foam beat both of those.

34

u/Ice_ScreamQueenPositive

How did the tips work for you with the AZ80s, noticeable difference?

1

u/GisJanstrellaPositive

Technics AZ80, B&O Beoplay EX, and Sennheiser Momentum 3.

2

4

Technics

AZ100

89% positive

9 Reddit mentions · from 9 users

Our take: The Technics AZ100 earbuds are another highly-rated option from the brand, with Redditors praising their exceptional sound quality. These seem to be a great choice for audiophiles looking for a premium wireless earbud experience.

What people are saying

u/hungryhummusheadPositive

I also really enjoyed the Sennheiser MTW4s when I was trying to get my next pair of truly wireless! Sound was great. Good pick.

I ultimately returned them in favor of the Technics AZ80, mainly because the in-call controls are better for me. I also…

use my ear buds for Teams calls pretty much all day for work, so that was important for me. Both of those are some great sounding earbuds though!

I also tested the Technics AZ100 when they came out but ultimately returned those. I greatly prefer the comfort and feel of the AZ80, while the sound quality difference was negligible for me. I also had an easier time finding the right EQ with the 80s than the 100s.

1

u/YoshikTKPositive

I just got AZ80 and AZ100. Previosly I only had Samsung Buds and some crappy Trust earbuds which I got as replecament until I get new ones, as I was still decideng which one to get.

After couple of minutes of listening to music I was amazed how good…

music could be. I've tried couple of songs I would listen all the time just to discover a whole new world. Listening music is like being in studio. Even my wife was so amazed how good they sound that asked to order ones for her as well. I didnt had the opportunity to check mic or ANC but just the sound is so good that i cant regret the purchase. Plus AZ80s were on sale on Amazon so got them pretty cheap.

1

u/3rd_Floor_AgainPositive

People here are overly defensive for Denons for some reason that is almost hilarious, try both, what matters is what you enjoyed the most. In my personal opinion, and I tried both, for me the AZ100 is way superior. Again, personal taste.

Overall…

Technics AZ100 is what made me enter the audiophile hobby, since then I bought 2 headphones and an IEM. It was the first time I listened to Hi Res music that made me go WTF! But you need to stream HiFi music using LDAC on Max Bitrate. I also really like their app, it's easy to customize touch commands and switch between EQs.

3

u/HGPOVDPositive

I agree. Denon Pearl Pro have better sound quality than my Technics AZ80 (and maybe AZ100). Almost same quality as my wired FiiO FH7 with 3 BA and beryllium diaphragm. Using AptX lossless dongle.

4

u/tigerimPositive

I've been using the latest Nothing Ear as my daily drivers despite owning pairs that cost 2-3x more (Devialet Gemini 2, Technics AZ100, B&O Beoplay EX, etc).

1

u/RekkkingsPositive

From my own experience AZ100 and JBL pro tour 3 much better for around the same price

1

u/PuffycatkibblePositive

Yeah I've been eyeing them after I lost my technics Az100 haha

1

u/3rd_Floor_AgainNeutral

You should have tried the Technics AZ100.

-2

5

AirPods

Pro

78% positive

9 Reddit mentions · from 9 users

Our take: The AirPods Pro are a common recommendation, with Redditors highlighting their great noise cancellation and seamless integration with Apple devices. However, a small number of users have reported problems with connectivity and durability, so it's worth considering those potential downsides.

What people are saying

u/still_not_famousPositive

I would suggest AirPods Pro 3.

I had been using the Galaxy Buds 2 since 2022 (prior to that Galaxy Buds) because I never liked the design of the AirPods or any earbuds that have a stem.

Recently my Buds 2 had been having issues and now that Samsung…

apes the AirPods design, I decided to just get the AirPods and other than some minor things I don’t like, these are overall fantastic especially for ANC, mic quality and the seamless connectivity if you have multiple Apple devices

1

u/ps4dbPositive

AirPods Pro 2. I tried the Bose ones and they were hard for me to get in/out of my ears. Also, wouldn’t connect always to my iPhone. AirPods have always worked flawlessly. So I’ve stuck to it. Plus it auto connects to my iPad or Mac as the case might…

be.

1

u/BrenInVAPositive

I have the Apple AirPods Pro 3 and they are great. If you are a Costco member, they are currently $219.99, and this includes 2 years of AppleCare+.

I had Pro 2 before, and these are better.

1

u/EduardboonPositive

After connecting I disconnect and reconnect immediately. This improves the latency drastically for my AirPods Pro 2s. Don’t know why

38

r/NintendoSwitch

u/BbqthisPositive

Yeah I use my AirPods Pro with it all the time and the lag is only slight.

9

r/NintendoSwitch

u/Sideburn_Cookie_ManPositive

AirPods Pro 2, no question there.

7

u/Diamond_Mine0Positive

AirPods Pro 3

1

u/pclamerNegative

Lucky you. My AirPods Pro 2nd gen started crackling and hissing after the warranty ran out. Now I can only use it in default mode since transparency mode and noise cancelling mode just make hissing noises :(

3

6

OnePlus Buds

Pro 3

100% positive

6 Reddit mentions · from 6 users

Our take: The OnePlus Buds Pro 3 seem to be generating a lot of buzz as a strong contender in the wireless earbud space. Redditors are praising their impressive features and performance, making them a worth considering if you're in the market for a new pair of earbuds.

What people are saying

u/EnvironmentTypical19Positive

Exactly. I heard a youtuber guy yesterday saying its his favourite buds too. For that price tag, and its only a 4 or 5 yo brand. Crazy. Im glad u mentioned the Liberty Pro 4 bc i was hesitating between those 2 when i bought the Nothing a month ago…

😄 Maybe i'll try the OnePlus 3 Pro.

1

u/ImJhorisBonsonPositive

It's really a shame, maybe some batches are affected more than others. But I played this lottery twice and not gonna risk it again. Ended up buying oneplus buds pro 3.

1

u/Wtjra70Positive

Yes, the OnePlus Buds Pro 3 has volume slider control. This feature sold me on the pair.

3

u/FatPac00Positive

I've been using the oneplus buds pro 3 and they've been doing great for me

2

r/LinusTechTips

u/JoyloonPositive

Oneplus Buds Pro 3

18

u/NagrimmPositive

OnePlus buds 3 pro

9

7

Jabra Elite

Active 75t

100% positive

5 Reddit mentions · from 5 users

Our take: The Jabra Elite Active 75t earbuds are a popular recommendation, especially for active users. Redditors highlight their robust build quality, reliable performance, and suitability for workouts and other physical activities.

What people are saying

u/Long-Fold6639Positive

If you're looking for gym earbuds, I'd recommend the Jabra Elite Active 75t and Beats Powerbeats Pro.The Jabra earbuds are sweatproof, stay in place during intense workouts, and have solid bass for that extra motivation. They also offer just the…

right amount of noise isolation without completely blocking out the environment. The Beats Powerbeats Pro are super secure with their over-ear hooks, perfect for weight training. They have great bass, are sweatproof, and have long battery life. They’re a bit bulkier but stay put no matter how intense your session gets.

66

u/tmtProdigyPositive

Jabra Elite Active not being on there, and Jabra as a Manufacturer only being represented once with the Elite 10 is sheer insanity and goes to show how bad "hive mind" can be. There is some amount of subjective preference that is always going to…

creep in, but objectively, Air Pods as #1 is absolutely crazy talk, in any context.

11

r/dataisbeautiful

u/NudeCeleryManPositive

My Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2s are absolutely incredible. Check every box for me.

I'm devastated that they've stopped making earbuds.

9

r/dataisbeautiful

8

OnePlus Buds

4

100% positive

4 Reddit mentions · from 4 users

Our take: The OnePlus Buds 4 seem to be emerging as an interesting budget-friendly choice, with Redditors highlighting their promising features and performance at an affordable price point. These could be a great option for those looking for a reliable pair of wireless earbuds without spending too much.

What people are saying

u/Dapper-Letterhead-76Positive

Check out the OnePlus Buds 4. Overpaying for workout earbuds can get silly. I know because I have the Bose QC Ultra 2 and love them but they were a gift. Shokz are great for running, I have the OpenRun Pro 2 but I want to block out noise at the gym.

1

r/runninglifestyle

u/Middle_Spell3586Positive

OnePlus Buds 4.

12

u/twothumberPositive

OnePlus Buds 4

1

u/Vjimenez147Positive

OnePlus bud 4

2

9

Soundcore Liberty

4 Pro

100% positive

4 Reddit mentions · from 4 users

Our take: The Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro earbuds seem to be a hit with Redditors, who are highlighting their excellent audio performance and comprehensive feature set. These appear to be a great choice for those seeking a premium wireless earbud experience.

What people are saying

u/RandomPieceOfToastv2Positive

I came from Soundcore's Liberty 4 NC, then the Liberty 4 Pros. And honestly, you just can't beat the noise canceling on those. I haven't found anything that beats those, but I got the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro for $90, and they blow the Liberty 4 NCs and…

Pros out of the water in literally every other aspect. The transparency is crystal clear, the sound is super well balanced, they feel more comfortable for long periods of time, and overall, they're just way higher tech than Soundcore.

I was honestly very bummed out about the noise canceling on these because I've used different eartips, and those didn't do much. I ended up buying Azla's SednaEarfit Max, and they provided the best seal, but it still just doesn't beat Soundcore.

4

u/EnvironmentTypical19Positive

Exactly. I heard a youtuber guy yesterday saying its his favourite buds too. For that price tag, and its only a 4 or 5 yo brand. Crazy. Im glad u mentioned the Liberty Pro 4 bc i was hesitating between those 2 when i bought the Nothing a month ago…

😄 Maybe i'll try the OnePlus 3 Pro.

1

u/lfanurPositive

Here are my top 3 at this price point: Bose Quietcomfort (2024) Soundcore liberty 4 pro OnePlus buds 4

I currently have the OnePlus and they are amazing, and I have the bose coming in 2 -3 days

1

u/imajes57Positive

I tired both side by side as well, and also went with the Nothing Ear over the Liberty 4 Pros.

1

10

Soundcore

Our take: Soundcore earbuds seem to be a go-to recommendation for folks looking for a quality pair of wireless earbuds without breaking the bank. People consistently mention the great value and performance they get from Soundcore products.

What people are saying

u/darkmalfoyPositive

Anker Soundcore r50i NC - ambient noise cancellation - goes on sale for 600-700 on Lazada - even has a phone stand sa earbuds case - cute colors to choose from - replacable eartips

1

r/Tech_Philippines

u/PriorQuestion1Positive

Soundcore has great options, this post helped me

14

u/Affectionate_Gap5100Positive

I also have the Soundcore a20i and it’s a very good and affordable option. Long battery life, too!

1

r/Tech_Philippines

u/ChirrppyPositive

Soundcore r50i NC at soundcore a20i sulit mga boss. 600 lng bili ko sa dalawa nung sale

5

r/Tech_Philippines

u/Taga-SantinakpanPositive

Soundcore. Order ka pag sale. Worth the price.

68

r/Tech_Philippines

u/Ready_Donut6181Positive

Soundcore, Edifier, or Baseus

2

r/Tech_Philippines

u/rjvillanuevaPositive

Anker liberty 4 soundcore pro

1

r/Tech_Philippines

u/Fadead87Positive

Anker Soundcore

1

r/Tech_Philippines

How these rankings work

We scan Reddit discussions in relevant communities and rank products from community sentiment, mention frequency, and discussion quality. Each entry includes real quotes from users. Read the full methodology.

Frequently asked questions

According to our analysis of 44 Reddit threads and 5,065 comments, the #1 ranked earbud is the Sony WF-1000XM5. This ranking is based on community sentiment, mention frequency, and discussion quality across multiple subreddits.

Rankings are based on real Reddit discussions across relevant communities. Products are scored on community sentiment (positive vs. negative mentions), how often they are recommended, and the quality of those discussions. Every ranking includes direct quotes from actual Reddit users.

We analyzed 10 earbuds using data from 44 Reddit threads containing 5,065 comments. Each product was evaluated on real community sentiment and user experiences.

Yes. ThreadVetted continuously re-analyzes Reddit discussions to keep rankings current. The Best Earbuds list was last updated in 2026 to reflect the most recent community recommendations.

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