Wireless Bluetooth earbuds are handy for listening to music, making calls, travelling, working and exercising. But a long list of features doesn’t automatically mean a particular model is right for you. A low price can be tempting, but an uncomfortable fit, limited battery life or disappointing microphone can quickly make a purchase impractical.
The main pitfalls are:
Most true wireless earbuds have an in-ear design with silicone ear tips. This can create a seal and deliver more bass, but not everyone finds pressure in the ear canal comfortable. Check the weight, shape and sizes of the ear tips included.
An open-ear design or clip-on style leaves the ear canal unobstructed. This can be comfortable when walking or working, as you can hear more of the sounds around you. The listening experience and bass response may differ from in-ear models, though. Take extra care when cycling, driving or in situations where you need to stay alert, and always follow local traffic laws.
The IP code indicates what a product is protected against. A model with IPX4 is rated as resistant to splashes from different directions. IPX5 offers protection against water jets under certain conditions. IP54 combines dust protection with protection against splashes.
This doesn’t mean the product is suitable for immersion in water. According to the product specifications, the IP54 rating for the REDMI Buds 8 Active applies to the earbuds only, not the charging case. Dry the charging contacts and USB-C port before charging.
Look at three separate figures:
Bluetooth 5.3, 5.4 or 6.0 refers to the Bluetooth version used, but it doesn’t tell you on its own how stable the connection will be in your home. Distance, walls, your phone and interference all play a part. For earbuds for calls and music, the number of microphones and the type of noise reduction used for calls also matter. A product description may mention ENC or AI microphone noise reduction, for example. According to the product specifications, this is designed to make calls clearer, but the actual experience can vary depending on your surroundings.
When choosing noise cancelling earbuds, look at the difference between active noise cancellation, passive noise isolation and microphone noise reduction. These are three different features. A figure such as “up to -46 dB” or “up to -50 dB” is a stated maximum, not a fixed level of noise reduction in every situation.
Why it suits this profile: An accessible option for everyday listening, travelling and calls, without complicated extra features.
The product specifications state 6 hours of playtime per charge and 23 hours with the case, so you know what to expect from the battery.
Bluetooth, USB-C, touch controls, a microphone and a casing made from 35% recycled plastic, according to the product information.
Why it suits this profile: A good choice if you’re looking for a compact in-ear set with active noise cancellation and multi-device connectivity.
The stated noise cancellation of up to 46 dB is clearly identified as a specification. Don’t expect complete silence, and check that the fit remains comfortable.
Bluetooth 5.4, multipoint according to the product description, four built-in microphones, IP54 and up to 7 hours of playtime per charge.
Why it suits this profile: Designed for people looking for earbuds for sport, everyday use and calls, with extra protection against sweat and water.
The IP68 rating is listed in the product specifications. Even so, check the instructions before use and don’t charge the product when it’s wet.
Up to 12 hours of playtime, a charging case, USB-C, physical controls and support for AAC and SBC, according to the product specifications.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
First, charge the earbuds and put them into pairing mode. Then open the Bluetooth settings on your smartphone and select the product name. If you’ve connected them before, many models will reconnect automatically when you open the case. If that doesn’t work, remove the old pairing and follow the instructions in the manual.
Their lifespan depends on charging cycles, usage, storage and care. Keep the earbuds and charging contacts clean, avoid prolonged exposure to heat, and don’t charge a wet case. As with other products with a built-in lithium battery, battery capacity decreases over time.
Yes, many models have a built-in microphone. For clearer calls, wireless earbuds with a microphone and multiple microphones, plus ENC or similar noise reduction, are a practical choice. Do check that your smartphone and the app you’re using work well together. Call quality also depends on wind, traffic, your network connection and your surroundings.