Joybuy Insights

Choosing wireless earbuds: what to consider before you buy

Wireless earbuds are handy for music, podcasts, calls, travel and exercise. However, a cheap set – or one described with great enthusiasm – can disappoint in practice. The fit may not be right, the battery may only achieve its advertised playtime under ideal conditions, or the connection may not work smoothly with your phone.

As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I filter product information for practical details. Below, you’ll find which specifications to check, which marketing claims need a little context and which type of wireless earbuds best suits the way you use them.

Three common pitfalls when choosing wireless earbuds

1. Battery life without clear conditions

Advertised battery life often applies to a specific setup, such as low volume with noise cancellation switched off. For example, the JBL Wave Buds 2 are listed with up to 40 hours including the charging case and without ANC. According to the product specifications, the earbuds themselves offer up to 8 hours of playback.

So always check:

  • the playback time of the earbuds themselves;
  • the total playback time with the charging case;
  • the difference between ANC on and ANC off;
  • how much extra playtime a quick charge provides.

2. Confusing ANC with complete silence

ANC, or active noise cancellation, uses microphones and electronics to reduce surrounding noise. The result varies depending on your ears, the fit and the type of sound. Low, constant sounds on a train or aeroplane are generally handled differently from voices or sudden noises.

Claims about a specific number of decibels come from the brand. According to the manufacturer’s own testing, for example, the MINISO MS106 can offer adaptive noise cancellation of up to -50 dB. Treat this as a product specification under certain conditions, rather than a guarantee that all background noise will disappear.

3. An IP rating does not mean you can swim with them

The IP code indicates the conditions a product is protected against according to its stated classification. IP54 and IP55 are not the same as being completely waterproof. According to the product information, the JBL Wave Buds 2 have an IP54 rating for the earbuds and IPX2 for the charging case. The Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro are listed with an IP57 rating.

Always check whether the protection applies to the earbuds, the case or both. Dry the charging contacts before charging and avoid submerging the product unless the manual explicitly allows it.

Important specifications for Bluetooth earbuds

Fit and comfort

With true wireless earbuds, choosing the right ear tips is important for comfort, sound isolation and bass reproduction. A loose fit may mean you have to keep adjusting them while walking or exercising. A fit that is too tight can become uncomfortable during longer listening sessions.

Open-ear models, such as clip-on or bone-conduction earbuds, let in more surrounding sound. This can be useful when cycling or running, but it also means your music will sound different and you’ll have less isolation. For sports use, also check the weight, how they are secured and the stated water resistance.

Bluetooth, multipoint and compatibility

Bluetooth 5.2, 5.4 or 6.1 indicates the version, but does not by itself guarantee better sound quality. Also check the supported audio codecs, apps and device compatibility.

Multipoint is useful if, for example, you use a laptop and smartphone at the same time. According to the product information, the JBL Wave Buds 2 support connections to two devices. The Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro are particularly appealing to users within the Galaxy ecosystem, with features such as Auto Switch. When using an iPhone, Android device, PC or console, check that all the features you want are actually supported.

Microphone and call quality

With earbuds with a microphone, the number of microphones is not the only thing to consider. Wind, traffic noise and microphone placement all affect how clearly you can be heard. Brands may claim to offer noise cancellation for calls, but according to the brand’s own testing, performance can vary depending on the surroundings.

For video calls and phone conversations, a stable Bluetooth connection, simple controls and a good fit are at least as important as a long list of technical terms.

Recommended choices for different user profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
JBL Wave Buds 2 - Black

JBL Wave Buds 2 - Black

Why it suits this profile: A versatile choice for everyday use, podcasts, music and phone calls without complicated controls.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information distinguishes between battery life with and without ANC. The IP54 rating for the earbuds and IPX2 rating for the case are also listed separately.

Key benefit & highlights

Up to 8 hours of playback per charge, up to 40 hours with the case, Bluetooth 5.2, multipoint and support for Google Fast Pair and Microsoft Swift Pair.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality
Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro True Wireless

Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro True Wireless

Why it suits this profile: Designed for users who value ANC, customisable audio and integration with Galaxy devices.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Playback time is listed separately for ANC on and off: up to 6 and 7 hours respectively. The IP57 classification does not mean you can swim with them.

Key benefit & highlights

Two-way speaker system, six microphones, 9-band equaliser, wireless charging and up to 30 hours of total playback according to the product details.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Sony PS5 Pulse Explore Earbuds White

Sony PS5 Pulse Explore - Earbuds - White

Why it suits this profile: Designed for PS5 gamers looking for low latency, PlayStation Link and chat through built-in microphones.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The connection types are clearly separated into PlayStation Link for compatible devices and Bluetooth for mobile devices and PCs. Battery life is listed as 5 hours per earbud and up to 10 hours with the case.

Key benefit & highlights

Planar magnetic drivers, two noise-cancelling microphones, USB-C charging case and compatibility with PS5, PlayStation Portal, PC and mobile devices.

Looking for more options?

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

Which wireless earbuds suit your situation?

  • For travelling: choose earbuds with ANC, a transparency mode and a case that provides several charges.
  • For calls and working from home: look at microphone positioning, multipoint and support for your laptop and phone.
  • For running: look for a secure fit, a suitable IP rating and sufficient awareness of your surroundings. Open-ear or bone-conduction models may be suitable.
  • For gaming: check the connection technology and latency. Bluetooth is not equally suitable for every console; you may need a dedicated USB adapter or wireless gaming audio solution.
  • For maximum battery life: compare the battery life per earbud, not just the total figure with the case.

Frequently asked questions about wireless earbuds

How do I connect wireless earbuds to my phone?

Switch on Bluetooth on your Android phone or iPhone, open the charging case and select the earbuds from the Bluetooth list. Some Bluetooth earbuds support Google Fast Pair or a similar quick-pairing feature. If it doesn’t work, put the earbuds back in the case, charge them and check that they aren’t already connected to another device.

How long do wireless earbuds last?

Battery life depends on battery capacity, charging habits, volume, ANC and software. A model with a large case can last longer during everyday use without needing a power socket, but the batteries in the earbuds will wear out over time. Keep them in the case, avoid heat and use a suitable USB-C charger as described in the manual.

Are noise-cancelling earbuds suitable for cycling?

Noise-cancelling earbuds can reduce surrounding noise. This is useful on public transport, but it can make it harder to hear traffic. When cycling, only use a setting and volume that allow you to remain sufficiently aware of your surroundings, and follow local traffic regulations.