Choosing wireless Bluetooth earbuds: how to avoid a bad buy

Wireless Bluetooth earbuds are handy for listening to music, making calls, travelling, studying and exercising. But a long list of features doesn’t always tell you everything you need to know. A low price can come with a poor fit, while a high IP rating doesn’t automatically mean you can swim with them.

The most common pitfalls are:

• Battery claims without clear testing conditions: playback time is often measured at a particular volume and sometimes without active noise cancellation.
• Unclear water-resistance claims: IPX4, IPX5 and IP57 offer different levels of protection. “Waterproof” is not a universal guarantee that a product can be submerged.
• Noise cancellation that isn’t right for every situation: active noise cancellation can be useful on the train, but being aware of your surroundings matters when cycling or running.
• A fit that becomes uncomfortable over time: in-ear earbuds create a good seal, but aren’t comfortable for every ear. Open-ear earbuds and clip-on models work differently.

Which specifications should you pay attention to?

1. Battery life: check the charge per earbud and the charging case

Look at the difference between the earbuds’ playback time and the total battery life with the case. For example, the HTC NE40 lists around 3.5 hours per charge and up to 24 hours with the case. The Urbanista Lisbon lists 9 hours per charge and up to 27 hours in total. The JBL Wave Buds 2 are listed as offering up to 40 hours with ANC switched off.

Fast charging can be more important than a big total figure. According to the product description, the MINISO MS106 can provide up to 3 hours of playback from a 10-minute charge. Always check whether the stated battery life is with active noise cancellation on, what volume it was tested at and which codec was used.

2. IP rating: suitable for sweat doesn’t mean suitable for swimming

The first digit indicates protection against solid particles, while the second refers to water. IPX4 generally means protection against splashes. IPX5 indicates protection against water jets under certain test conditions. A product with IP57 is rated, according to its listed specifications, as protected against dust and temporary immersion. However, that doesn’t mean it’s safe to use in a swimming pool or seawater in every situation.

For exercise, sports earbuds rated IPX4 or IPX5 may be enough to handle sweat and light rain. For swimming, choose only a product whose manufacturer explicitly provides a suitable mode of use and instructions. Never charge earbuds while the charging contacts are still damp.

3. Fit, microphone and connection

Earbuds with a microphone aren’t necessarily suitable for making calls on noisy streets. Check the number of microphones, wind-noise reduction and whether they support multipoint or dual-device connections. Bluetooth 5.3, 5.4 or 6.0 tells you about the connection standard, but says nothing by itself about sound quality.

• In-ear: usually offers more isolation and a compact fit; suitable for travel and the office.
• Clip-on or ear-hook: according to product descriptions, these often stay in place better during movement, but may feel different around your ear.
• Open-ear earbuds: let in ambient sound. This can be practical when running, but the listening experience and bass response differ from closed in-ear models.
• Bone conduction headphones: deliver sound through an open design worn around the ear. Pay particular attention to fit, water resistance, storage options and battery life.

Our recommendations for different needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

Urbanista Lisbon True Wireless Green

Why it suits this profile: These compact true wireless earbuds are designed for everyday listening, travel and calls. The stated playback time is 9 hours per charge and 27 hours with the case.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The product details give both the battery life per charge and the total life with the case. Water resistance isn’t presented as a swimming feature.

Key benefits and features

Bluetooth 5.2, a microphone, touch controls and a weight of 4 grams per earbud, according to the product information.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality

Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro True Wireless

Why it suits this profile: This model is designed for users looking for active noise cancellation, a range of sound features and pairing with Galaxy devices.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The product specifications distinguish between 6 hours of playback with ANC and 7 hours without ANC. An IP57 rating is also listed, with a warning that the product isn’t intended for swimming.

Key benefits and features

2-way speaker system, six microphones, Bluetooth 6.1, wireless charging and 30 hours of total playback without ANC, according to Samsung.

Suitable for: Specific needs and heavy users

Mojawa RunPlus Bone Conduction Headphones

Why it suits this profile: According to the product listing, the open-ear bone conduction design is intended for running, cycling, fitness and swimming.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The listed IP68 rating and 32 GB of built-in MP3 storage make it less dependent on a phone, but always follow the charging and rinsing instructions.

Key benefits and features

Open-ear design, Bluetooth connectivity, 32 GB of storage and a version described as suitable for swimming in the product name.

Suitable for: Commuters and people who make calls

MINISO MS106 Wireless Bluetooth 6.0 Earphones

Why it suits this profile: This model is designed for the office, studying, exercise and audio calls, with a built-in microphone and touch controls.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The product description lists IPX5, six microphones and a fast-charging function. Claims about AI noise cancellation come from the product description and aren’t based on independent testing.

Key benefits and features

Up to 55 hours of total battery life, Bluetooth 6.0, a 10 mm driver and dual-device connectivity, according to the listed specifications.

Frequently asked questions about wireless Bluetooth earbuds

How do I connect Bluetooth earbuds to my phone?

Open the case or switch on the earbuds, turn on Bluetooth on your phone and select the product name from the list of available devices. Some models start pairing automatically. If that doesn’t work, put the earbuds back in the case, check the instructions and, if necessary, remove an old Bluetooth pairing.

How long do wireless earbuds last?

Battery capacity decreases over time, but battery life also depends on volume, ANC, call use and temperature. Keep the earbuds in their case, charge them with the recommended cable and avoid exposing them to heat or moisture for long periods. A model with a high-capacity case can be handy if you travel every day.

Are noise-cancelling earbuds suitable for running?

It depends on your route. ANC can be useful in a quiet gym. When cycling, crossing the road or running in busy traffic, it’s important to stay aware of the sounds around you. Open-ear earbuds or transparency mode may be a better fit, but always stay alert and follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions.