Joybuy Insights

Choosing wireless earbuds: how to avoid making the wrong purchase

Wireless earbuds are useful for commuting, making calls, working out and relaxing at home. However, a long list of features does not always tell you what everyday use will be like. A high battery-life claim, for example, may only apply when active noise cancellation is switched off, while a low price can sometimes mean a mediocre fit or limited call quality.

If you are looking for wireless earbuds, Bluetooth earbuds or TWS earbuds, it is worth deciding on your usage scenario first. Do you mainly want comfortable listening, meetings in a busy office, running in the rain or watching films without background noise? The right choice depends on that priority.

Three common pitfalls when choosing wireless earbuds

1. Battery life without the right context

The stated playback time often applies to a specific setting, such as noise cancellation switched off and the volume set to 50 per cent. The JBL Wave Buds 2, for example, claim up to 40 hours in total, with this figure applying with ANC switched off according to the product specification. The usage time per earbud, the additional charge provided by the case and talk time are separate figures.

So pay attention to:

  • battery life per full charge;
  • total battery life with the charging case;
  • battery life with ANC switched on;
  • support for fast charging;
  • the connection used, such as USB-C.

2. Confusing noise cancellation with complete silence

ANC earbuds use microphones and electronics to reduce background noise. This generally works differently for constant sounds, such as train engines, than it does for voices or sudden noises. A transparency mode is also important when you are walking in traffic or want to continue communicating in the office.

A claim such as ‘up to -50 dB’ comes from a brand’s or seller’s product information. Do not regard it as a guarantee of the same experience in every environment. The fit, type of sound and settings all affect the result.

3. Misinterpreting water resistance

An IP rating indicates the conditions against which a product is protected according to the stated standard. IP54, for example, means protection against dust and splashing water to a specified level; it does not make an earbud suitable for immersion. IPX4 is not the same as being fully waterproof either.

For cycling or running in the Netherlands, sports earbuds with a suitable splash-resistance rating are more practical than models with no stated protection. Always dry the charging contacts and USB-C port before charging.

Which specifications should you compare?

Bluetooth version and connection

Bluetooth 5.2, 5.3 or 5.4 mainly indicates the standard being used. The actual experience also depends on your phone, laptop, codecs and software. Multipoint is useful if you often switch between a smartphone and computer. Do check that it works with your devices.

For Android users, features such as Google Fast Pair can be practical. Apple users generally benefit from simple pairing within the Apple ecosystem when using AirPods. Other Bluetooth earbuds can also work with Apple devices, but some additional features may be more limited.

Fit, wearing style and comfort

With wireless in-ear earbuds, the ear tips and any stability wings determine how securely the product sits. A good seal can improve sound and reduce background noise passively, but not everyone finds a closed in-ear fit comfortable.

Pay attention to:

  • the sizes of the included silicone ear tips;
  • weight per earbud;
  • touch controls or physical buttons;
  • the shape of the ear hook on sports models;
  • ventilation and pressure during extended use.

An open design, such as the Verbex K08 with ear hook, may be more comfortable when you want to remain aware of your surroundings. However, this also means that background noise is less effectively blocked.

Microphone and calls

Earbuds with a microphone are suitable for phone calls and online meetings, but quality depends on the number of microphones, wind reduction and the position of the earbud. Do not focus only on claims such as ‘AI noise reduction’ or ‘clear calls’; these are product claims. Above all, check whether there is specific information about the microphones, Bluetooth profiles and talk time.

USB-C and charging options

USB-C is now standard on many new models. Check whether the cable is included and whether the case can also be charged wirelessly. A USB-C connection does not automatically mean that a model is wireless: the Samsung EO-IC100, for example, is a wired USB-C headset without Bluetooth. This model may be interesting if you do not want to charge a battery, but it is not suitable for anyone specifically looking for wireless earbuds.

Our recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
JBL Wave Flex 2 Pink

JBL Wave Flex 2 Pink

Why it suits this profile: These Bluetooth earbuds are designed for everyday use, with Smart Ambient, a built-in microphone and up to 40 hours of total playback according to the product specification.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The battery claim specifies use with the case and also states the playback time per charge. The IP54 rating makes it clearer that this is protection against splashes and dust.

Key benefit & highlights

12mm drivers, four microphones, multipoint connection and USB-C fast charging.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for top quality
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Earbuds 2nd Gen Black

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Earbuds (2nd Gen) Black

Why it suits this profile: According to the product specification, this model combines Bluetooth 5.3, CustomTune, active noise cancellation and an Aware mode with an in-ear design.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The three sizes of ear tips and stability bands help you fine-tune the fit. The IPX4 rating makes it clear that this is splash resistance, not protection against immersion.

Key benefit & highlights

Up to six hours of playback per charge, USB-C and wireless case charging, plus multipoint pairing.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Verbex K08 bone conduction Bluetooth earphones

Verbex K08 bone conduction Bluetooth earphones

Why it suits this profile: According to the product description, the open ear-hook design is intended for activities including cycling, running and listening to music while remaining aware of your surroundings.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The open design prevents you from automatically expecting complete sound isolation. The manufacturer also states that prolonged exposure to water and extreme temperatures should be avoided.

Key benefit & highlights

Bluetooth, multipoint connection, call support and a stated maximum battery life of eight hours.

Suitable for: Home workers and travellers
Sonos ACE Over-Ear Bluetooth Headset Black

Sonos ACE Over-Ear Bluetooth Headset Black

Why it suits this profile: If you would rather not wear in-ear earbuds, these over-ear headphones offer a larger fit, active noise cancellation, microphones and multipoint.

How this product avoids the pitfall

According to the product specification, the stated battery life of up to 30 hours applies with ANC switched on. The manufacturer also states that battery life varies depending on use and settings.

Key benefit & highlights

USB-C audio, Bluetooth, 40mm drivers, fast charging and a weight of 312 grams.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about wireless earbuds

How do I connect Bluetooth earbuds to my phone?

Switch on Bluetooth on your smartphone, open the charging case and put the earbuds into pairing mode. Select the product name from the Bluetooth list. If the model has been paired before, this often happens automatically. If it does not work, remove the old pairing and charge both the earbuds and the case.

How long do wireless earbuds last?

Battery life per charge varies by model and settings. Battery capacity decreases over time, particularly after many charging cycles and exposure to heat. Store the earbuds in the case, charge them with a suitable USB-C charger and avoid using them at maximum volume for extended periods.

Are earbuds with noise cancellation suitable for cycling?

Not necessarily. ANC can reduce background noise, while traffic sounds are particularly important for your safety. When cycling, preferably use an open design or transparency mode, and always follow local traffic regulations. The fact that a model is described as sports earbuds does not mean that every usage scenario is safe.