We tested over 20 pairs of headphones to find the best (and most budget-friendly) alternatives to AirPods.
While AirPods dominate the wireless audio market, they come with significant drawbacks: premium pricing, mediocre battery life, limited device connectivity, and fit issues for many users. After rigorously testing dozens of alternatives across various price points and styles, we’ve identified nine standout options that outperform Apple’s offerings in key areas.
The TREBLAB X3 Pro delivers exceptional performance in workouts with secure ear hooks and 9-hour battery life, while the Status Audio earbuds offer audiophile-quality sound with remarkable 10-hour playback. For budget-conscious shoppers, the ZZU Wireless Earbuds rival models more than four times their price. Whether you prioritize comfort, battery life, sound quality, or value, our selections provide compelling alternatives to Apple’s ubiquitous models.
The Best Headphones That Aren’t AirPods
- TREBLAB X3 Pro: Best For Workouts
- ZZU Wireless Earbuds: Best Budget Pick
- Status Audio Between 3ANC: Most Stylish Earbuds
- TREBLAB Z7 Pro: Best Noise Cancellation
- Sony ZX Series: Best Wired Headphones
- Technics AZ100 Earbuds: Best Battery Life
- JBL Vibe Beam: Best AirPod Lookalike
- Sennheiser Momentum: Best Luxury Pick
- Bose QuietComfort: Best Sound Quality
TREBLAB X3 Pro: Best For Workouts
Battery Life: 9 hours per charge | Waterproof Rating: IPX5 (sweat and splash resistant) | Noise Cancellation: No active noise cancellation, but good passive isolation | Price: View on Amazon
Pros:
• Secure ear hook design perfect for high-intensity workouts
• Exceptional battery life (9 hours per charge)
• Charging case doubles as a quick-charge power bank
Cons:
• No active noise cancellation
• Bulkier design than some competitors
• Touch controls can be finicky during intense movement
After putting the TREBLAB X3 Pro through rigorous testing across various environments, we’re confident these are the best earbuds for active users. The ear hook design proved completely secure during everything from sprints to CrossFit sessions, with none of our testers experiencing slippage issues that plague standard earbuds.
The sound quality also surprised us, considering the low price of these earbuds. They delivered powerful bass without sacrificing clarity in the mids and highs. The 14.2mm drivers provide more dynamic range than typical workout earbuds, though audiophiles might still prefer more refined options for critical listening (see: Status Earbuds).
Where the X3 Pro truly shines is battery performance. In our tests, they consistently delivered close to the advertised 9 hours per charge, and the case’s additional 136 hours means you could go weeks on just the charging case alone.
The X3 Pro is ideal for serious athletes, gym enthusiasts, and outdoor adventurers who prioritize fit, security, and battery life over features like noise control. If you’re tired of adjusting earbuds mid-workout or running out of battery during long training sessions, these are your solution.
Status Audio Between 3ANC: Most Comfortable Earbuds
Battery Life: 8 hours with ANC on, 12 hours with ANC off |Â Waterproof Rating: IPX5 (sweat and splash resistant) |Â Noise Cancellation: Yes, with three adjustable modes |Â Price: View on Amazon
Pros:
• Exceptionally comfortable for extended wear
• Triple driver system delivers detailed, balanced audio
• Customizable noise cancellation modes for different environments
Cons:
• Higher price point than some competitors
• Slightly larger earbud size
• No equalizer app
In a world of headphones that all kinda look like AirPods, the Status Audio Between 3ANC earbuds stand out for their remarkable comfort and unique style. The ergonomic design and multiple ear tip options (including memory foam) create a custom-like fit that our testers could wear for 6+ hours without discomfort – something rare in the earbud market.
The triple driver technology (one dynamic driver plus two balanced armature drivers) delivers a sophisticated sound profile that audiophiles will appreciate. Bass response is tight and controlled rather than overpowering, while the dedicated drivers for mids and highs ensure exceptional clarity across the frequency spectrum. This separation of frequencies creates a more immersive soundstage than most single-driver earbuds can achieve.
The three-mode ANC system provides versatility for different scenarios. The full cancellation mode performed admirably in our tests, particularly with consistent low-frequency noise. The transparency mode sounds natural, and we appreciated having an intermediate “ambient” setting that blocks some noise while keeping you aware of your surroundings.
The Between 3ANC is perfect for professionals who spend hours on calls, commuters who want comfortable earbuds for long trips, or audiophiles seeking detailed sound reproduction in a wireless format. While not the cheapest option on this list (see: ZZU Wireless Earbuds), they justify their price through superior comfort, sound quality, and thoughtful features that enhance daily use.
ZZU Wireless Earbuds: Best Budget Pick
Battery Life: 8 hours per charge | Waterproof Rating: IPX7 (fully waterproof) | Noise Cancellation: No active noise cancellation | Price: View on Amazon
Pros:
• Shockingly low price
• Impressive sound quality for the price point
• Comfortable, lightweight design with multiple ear tip sizes
Cons:
• No active noise cancellation
• Call quality is adequate but not exceptional
• Build quality feels less premium than higher-end models
The ZZU Wireless Earbuds represent one of the best values we’ve encountered in our extensive headphone testing. At a fraction of the price of AirPods Pro, these earbuds deliver surprisingly robust performance across the board.
Sound quality is where the ZZU earbuds particularly impressed our testing team. The 13.2mm drivers produce a well-balanced sound profile with respectable bass response and clear vocals. While they don’t match the audio fidelity of premium models like the Sennheisers or Bose, they sound significantly better than their price would suggest. During our blind listening tests, several testers ranked them above earbuds, which cost twice as much.
Battery performance was consistent with the manufacturer’s claims, delivering around 8 hours of playback at moderate volume levels. The charging case’s LED display showing remaining power is a thoughtful touch rarely found at this price point. Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity proved stable and reliable, with minimal latency when watching videos.
The ZZU earbuds are perfect for budget-conscious consumers who want solid performance without breaking the bank. They’re also excellent as backup earbuds or for situations where you might worry about losing or damaging more expensive options. While they lack premium features like noise cancellation, their core performance and comfort make them an easy recommendation for most casual listeners.
TREBLAB Z7 Pro: Best Noise Cancellation
Battery Life: 45 hours total (20 hours with ANC on) | Waterproof Rating: IPX4 (sweat and splash resistant)| Noise Cancellation: Yes, Hybrid ANC that blocks 35dB of noise | Price: View on Amazon
Pros:
• Exceptional noise cancellation performance
• Comfortable for extended listening sessions
• Quick charging (5 hours of use from a 20-minute charge)
Cons:
• Larger over-ear design isn’t as portable as earbuds
• ANC significantly reduces battery life
• Sound leakage at higher volumes
After extensive testing in various noisy environments, the TREBLAB Z7 Pro over-ear headphones emerged as our noise cancellation champions. From airplane cabins to busy coffee shops and construction sites (that is, outside one of our tester’s apartments), these headphones consistently outperformed competitors at isolating unwanted ambient noise.
What impressed us most was the effectiveness of the hybrid ANC system. The Z7 Pro uses feedforward and feedback microphones to capture and cancel a broader spectrum of noise frequencies. In our testing, they reduced low-frequency rumble (like airplane engines) and mid-frequency sounds at a performance that rivals headphones costing five times as much.
Sound quality doesn’t take a backseat either. The 40mm dynamic drivers deliver a warm, detailed soundstage with punchy bass that never becomes muddy. The transparency mode works well when you need to hear your surroundings, though it’s not quite as natural-sounding as Apple’s implementation.
The Z7 Pro is ideal for frequent travelers, office workers in noisy environments, or anyone who wants effective noise isolation without spending premium prices on brands like Bose or Sony. While their over-ear design makes them less convenient for workouts or quick errands, the superior noise cancellation and comfort make them perfect for long listening sessions when isolation is your priority.
Sozy ZX Series: Best Wired Headphones
Battery Life: N/A (wired) | Waterproof Rating: None | Noise Cancellation: Passive noise isolation only | Price: View on Amazon
Pros:
• No battery concerns or charging needed
• Excellent sound quality for the price
• Foldable design for easy portability
Cons:
• Wired connection limits mobility
• Cable can be prone to tangling
• Less isolation than active noise-cancelling models
In an era dominated by wireless options, the Sozy ZX Series headphones remind us why wired headphones still have a place in any collection. During our testing, these lightweight over-ear headphones consistently impressed with their reliability, sound quality, and value.
The 1.38-inch neodymium drivers deliver a surprisingly wide frequency response (12Hz to 22kHz), providing deeper bass and more extended highs than many competitors in this price range. The closed-back design offers decent passive noise isolation while preventing sound leakage in quiet environments. In our listening tests, they reproduced complex orchestral pieces with unexpected clarity and detail, though they don’t quite match the spatial presentation of premium open-back headphones.
Comfort is another strong point. The cushioned earpads create a gentle seal around the ears, and the lightweight construction (under 7 ounces) prevents fatigue during extended listening sessions. The swiveling earcups and foldable design make them more portable than many over-ear options.
The Sozy ZX Series is ideal for budget-conscious audiophiles, home studio users, students, or anyone who wants reliable headphones without battery anxiety. They’re also perfect as a backup pair when your wireless headphones run out of juice. While they lack the convenience of Bluetooth and features like noise cancellation, their consistent performance and excellent value make them a standout in the wired category.
Technics AZ100 Earbuds: Best Battery Life
Battery Life: 10 hours | Waterproof Rating: IPX4 (water and sweat resistant) | Noise Cancellation: Yes, adaptive | Price: View on Amazon
Pros:
• Exceptional battery life compared to competitors
• Hi-Res audio certification with excellent sound quality
• Dolby Atmos support with head tracking
Cons:
• Premium price point
• Larger case size compared to some competitors
• Learning curve for all the advanced features
The Technics Reference Class Hi-Fi Wireless Earbuds (AZ100) set a new standard for battery longevity in our testing. While many premium earbuds struggle to last 5-6 hours with ANC enabled, these consistently delivered 9-10 hours in our real-world usage tests, a significant advantage for power users.
Sound quality matches the premium positioning. The magnetic fluid drivers produced some of the most accurate audio reproduction in our earbud tests, with exceptional clarity in the mid-range and controlled, precise bass. The hi-res audio certification isn’t just marketing. In our A/B testing with standard Bluetooth codecs, the difference was noticeable with high-quality audio sources.
The Dolby Atmos implementation with head tracking created the most convincing spatial audio experience we’ve tested outside of Apple’s ecosystem. When watching compatible content, the soundstage remained fixed in space as we moved our heads, creating a more immersive viewing experience than standard stereo audio.
These earbuds are ideal for audiophiles who don’t want to compromise on sound quality but need the convenience of wireless earbuds. They’re also perfect for frequent travelers or anyone who needs extended listening time without recharging. While the price point is high, the combination of battery performance, sound quality, and advanced features justifies the investment for serious music and movie enthusiasts.
JBL Vibe Beam: Best AirPod Lookalike
Battery Life: 8 hours per charge, 32 hours total with case | Waterproof Rating: IP54 (splash resistant) | Noise Cancellation: No active noise cancellation | Price: View on Amazon
Pros:
• AirPod-like stem design at a fraction of the price
• JBL’s signature bass-forward sound profile
• Good battery life with quick charging
Cons:
• No active noise cancellation
• Less seamless Apple integration than actual AirPods
• Microphone quality is adequate but not exceptional
For those who appreciate the aesthetic and fit of Apple’s iconic earbuds but prefer to venture outside the Apple ecosystem (or save some money), the JBL Vibe Beam offers a compelling alternative. In our side-by-side comparison, these earbuds closely mimic the AirPods’ stem design while adding JBL’s audio expertise.
Sound quality leans toward JBL’s characteristic bass-forward tuning, with the 8mm drivers delivering punchy low end, making genres like EDM, hip-hop, and rock particularly engaging. While not as balanced as audiophile options, the sound signature is fun and energetic, perfect for workouts or commuting. The closed design provides better passive isolation than standard AirPods (though not as good as Status Audio’s Earbuds).
Battery performance impressed our testing team, consistently matching or exceeding the rated 8 hours per charge. The speed charging feature, which provides 2 hours of playback from just 10 minutes, proved particularly useful in daily use.
The JBL Vibe Beam is ideal for Android users who like the AirPods’ style, budget-conscious consumers who want decent quality without the Apple premium, or casual listeners who prefer a bass-emphasized sound profile. While they lack premium features like noise cancellation and wireless charging, they deliver solid core performance and style at a very reasonable price.
Sennheiser Momentum: Best Luxury Pick
Battery Life: 9 hours |Â Waterproof Rating: None listed |Â Noise Cancellation: Yes, optimized adaptive ANCÂ |Â Price: View on Amazon
Pros:
• Exceptional sound quality with TrueResponse transducer system
• Premium materials and build quality
• Advanced features like LE Audio & Auracast support
Cons:
• Higher price point than most competitors
• Larger case size than some ultra-compact options
• Battery life not as long as advertised
The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 earbuds represent the pinnacle of what’s possible in the premium earbud space. Throughout our extensive testing, they consistently delivered an audio experience that sets them apart from the competition.
Sound quality is where these earbuds truly excel. The TrueResponse transducer system produces remarkably detailed audio with precise instrument separation and a well-balanced frequency response. Low-end is tight and controlled rather than overwhelming, while the high frequencies offer sparkle without becoming harsh. For critical listening, these were the clear favorites among our testing panel, outperforming even some wired options regarding detail retrieval and soundstage.
Build quality matches the premium audio performance. The earbuds feature high-quality materials with precise fit and finish, while the extra-soft silicone ear tips provide comfort and excellent passive isolation. The adaptive ANC performed impressively in our tests, particularly with its Anti-Wind Mode, effectively reducing wind noise during outdoor use.
The Sennheiser Momentum is ideal for discerning audiophiles who refuse to compromise on sound quality, luxury-oriented consumers who appreciate premium materials and craftsmanship, or technology enthusiasts who want cutting-edge features like LE Audio. While their price places them firmly in the premium category, the sonic performance and build quality justify the investment for those seeking the absolute best.
Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones: Best Sound Quality
Battery Life: 24 hours | Waterproof Rating: None | Noise Cancellation: Yes, industry-leading | Price: View on Amazon
Pros:
• Unmatched sound quality with adjustable EQ
• Superior comfort for extended listening sessions
• Excellent noise cancellation with adjustable levels
Cons:
• Premium price point
• Larger form factor than in-ear options
• Occasional connectivity issues with multipoint Bluetooth
The Bose QuietComfort headphones have long been the gold standard for over-ear wireless headphones, and our extensive testing confirms they still deserve that reputation. These headphones consistently outperformed competitors in our sound quality evaluations across various music genres and content types.
What sets the QuietComfort apart is the perfect balance of technical performance and listening enjoyment. The frequency response is expertly tuned to sound natural and engaging, with well-extended bass that never overwhelms the mids. The adjustable EQ allows further personalization, though many of our testers preferred the default tuning. Spatial presentation is impressive for closed-back headphones, creating a sense of space that makes long listening sessions enjoyable.
Comfort lives up to the product name. The plush earcups and padded headband distribute weight evenly, preventing pressure points during extended use. In our comfort testing, multiple team members wore these for 6+ hour sessions without significant discomfort, a rare achievement for over-ear headphones.
The Bose QuietComfort is ideal for audiophiles who want wireless convenience without sacrificing sound quality, frequent travelers who need comfortable headphones with excellent noise cancellation, or office professionals who spend hours on calls and listening to music. While they require a significant investment, their sound quality, comfort, and effective noise cancellation make them a worthwhile purchase for serious listeners.
The Drawbacks of Apple AirPods
While Apple’s AirPods remain incredibly popular, we deliberately chose alternatives for our main recommendations for several compelling reasons:
High Cost for Limited Features: AirPods Pro 2 retail for $249, a premium price that doesn’t necessarily deliver premium performance compared to competitors. Many of our recommended alternatives offer comparable or superior sound quality and features at lower prices.
Disappointing Battery Life: Even with recent improvements, AirPods Pro 2 only offer 6 hours of listening time with ANC enabled. Compare this to options like the Technics Reference Class, which offers 10 hours, or the TREBLAB X3 Pro, which offers 9 hours, and Apple’s battery performance falls short.
Limited Device Connectivity: Unlike many modern wireless earbuds that simultaneously support multipoint connections to several devices, standard AirPods can only connect to one device at a time. While you can switch between Apple devices fairly easily, this is still less convenient than proper multipoint connectivity.
Fit Issues: The signature AirPod design simply doesn’t work for everyone. In our testing panel, approximately 30% of users experienced fit problems with AirPods falling out during movement or causing discomfort during extended wear. Most recommended alternatives offer multiple ear tip sizes and more secure designs.
Lack of Individuality: Let’s be honest; AirPods are everywhere. While this speaks to their popularity, it also means they lack any sense of personal style or uniqueness. Our alternative recommendations, like the Sennheiser Momentum earbuds, offer distinctive designs, sound signatures, and feature sets that help you stand out from the crowd.
Honorable Mentions
Sony WF-1000XM5
Sony’s flagship earbuds nearly made our main list for their exceptional noise cancellation and sound quality. While slightly bulkier than some competitors, their advanced features and excellent microphone quality for calls make them worthy of consideration.
Jabra Elite 8 Active
These ultra-durable earbuds feature an IP68 rating (fully waterproof and dustproof) and ShakeGrip technology that keeps them secure during intense activities. Their rugged design makes them perfect for extreme sports enthusiasts.
Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro
For Samsung users, these high-powered earbuds offer many of the same ecosystem advantages that AirPods provide to Apple users. Their compact design, good ANC, and seamless integration with Galaxy devices make them a strong contender.
Beats Fit Pro
These Apple-owned earbuds offer better fit security than standard AirPods thanks to their wing tip design, while still providing easy pairing with Apple devices. Their punchy bass response makes them great for workout playlists.
Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro
These budget-friendly earbuds punch well above their weight class with dual drivers, LDAC support for hi-res audio, and impressive noise cancellation. They offer exceptional value for audiophiles on a budget.
How We Tested These Headphones
Sound Quality: Each headphone was evaluated by a panel of testers with varying preferences and experience levels. We used a standardized playlist spanning classical, jazz, rock, hip-hop, and electronic music to assess frequency response, detail retrieval, soundstage, and overall enjoyment. Testing included critical listening sessions and casual background listening to evaluate fatigue over time.
Comfort and Fit: To assess comfort, testers wore each headphone for a minimum of six consecutive hours. We tested fit security for earbuds during various activities, including walking, jogging, and high-intensity interval training. We also evaluated how well each model accommodated different ear shapes and sizes.
Battery Performance: Rather than relying solely on manufacturer claims, we conducted real-world battery tests with features like ANC enabled at 70% volume. We also assessed charging speeds and case capacity where applicable.
Noise Cancellation: We tested ANC performance in controlled environments with consistent background noise (airplane cabin simulator, coffee shop ambient noise, office environment) and measured approximate decibel reduction. Transparency modes were evaluated for naturalness and voice clarity.
Call Quality: Each headphone was used for multiple voice calls in quiet and noisy environments to assess microphone performance, voice clarity, and background noise rejection.
Connectivity: We tested connection range, stability during movement, and multipoint functionality. For models with companion apps, we evaluated app features, EQ options, and firmware update processes.
Durability: While long-term testing wasn’t possible for all models, we assessed build quality, water/dust resistance claims, and researched reliability reports from long-term users.
Value Assessment: Finally, we considered each headphone’s overall value proposition, balancing performance, features, and build quality against price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on your priorities. High-end headphones typically offer better sound quality, more effective noise cancellation, premium build materials, and longer warranties. However, we found several mid-range and budget options that provide excellent performance for most users. If you’re a critical listener or use headphones extensively throughout your day, investing in a premium pair often pays off in longevity and enjoyment.
Each style has advantages:
In-ear (earbuds): Most portable, good isolation, ideal for workouts
On-ear: Balance of portability and sound quality, less ear fatigue than in-ears
Over-ear: Best sound quality and comfort for long sessions, most effective noise cancellation
Your choice should reflect how and where you’ll primarily use your headphones
ANC is most valuable if you frequently use headphones in noisy environments like airplanes, commuter trains, or busy offices. For home use or quiet environments, good passive isolation might be sufficient. Keep in mind that ANC typically reduces battery life when enabled.
Store them in a case when not in use, and clean them regularly with a microfiber cloth (and alcohol wipes for earbuds). You should also avoid exposure to extreme temperatures, and for earbuds, clean the ear tips regularly to prevent wax buildup.
The correct size should create a comfortable seal without pressure or discomfort. To test fit:
• Insert earbuds and gently twist to seat them
• Check for stability by shaking your head
• Test audio quality – proper fit enhances bass response
• Confirm noise isolation – background sounds should be notably reduced
Many manufacturers now include fit tests in their companion apps to help you find the optimal size.