Joybuy Insights

Choosing wireless earbuds: how to find the right model for music, calls and sport

Wireless earbuds are ideal for commuting, working from home, exercise and everyday listening. However, a long list of features does not automatically mean a model will suit the way you use it. A low price may look appealing, for example, while the fit disappoints or the battery life is only achieved under ideal conditions.

So pay particular attention to these three common pitfalls:

  • Marketing claims without clear testing conditions: battery life may only apply with noise cancellation switched off and at a specified volume.
  • Confusing splash resistance with waterproofing: an IPX5 rating is not the same as being suitable for swimming.
  • The wrong fit: in-ear earbuds may stay firmly in place for one user but come loose quickly for another. Open-ear models provide greater awareness of your surroundings, but block out less sound.

Which specifications really matter?

1. Battery life: check both the earbuds and charging case

True wireless earbuds often list two figures: playback time per charge and total usage time with the charging case. This distinction is important if you take long train journeys or want to get through several working days without needing a power socket.

Also check whether the stated battery life applies with active noise cancelling (ANC) switched on. The JBL Wave Buds 2, for example, are listed with up to 40 hours of total playback when ANC is switched off. The individual specifications also state up to 8 hours of music playback and a fast-charging function.

A model with shorter playback time per charge can still be practical if the case can recharge the earbuds several times. Also pay attention to the connector: USB-C is now the most common choice for charging.

2. Water and dust resistance: understand the IP code

An IP rating consists of numbers and sometimes an X. The first number indicates protection against solid particles, while the second refers to water. A product with IPX5 is classified as protected against water jets under certain conditions, but that does not make it suitable for submersion.

For running in light rain, splash-resistant Bluetooth earbuds may be sufficient. For swimming, you need a model whose manufacturer explicitly permits use in water and states the appropriate rating. The Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro, for example, are described as IP57; the accompanying safety information states that they are not intended for swimming.

After exercise, dry the earbuds and, in particular, the charging contacts before storing or charging them.

3. Fit, microphones and ambient sound

A good fit affects comfort, sound isolation and how well ANC works. The Apple AirPods Pro 3 come with five sizes of silicone ear tips. This gives you more options for finding a suitable seal, but every user experiences the fit differently.

For calls, noise-cancelling microphones are important. Do not just look at the number of microphones; consider the environment in which you will use them, too. Wind, traffic and a busy office place greater demands on the earbuds than a phone call in a quiet room.

If you want to continue hearing traffic while cycling or walking, open-ear earbuds or bone conduction headphones may be a better choice. These designs block the ear canal less. As a result, the listening experience and bass may differ from those of a closed in-ear model.

Recommended wireless earbuds by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Urbanista Lisbon True Wireless Green

Urbanista Lisbon True Wireless Green

Why it suits this profile: Compact Bluetooth earbuds for everyday listening, commuting and straightforward phone calls.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated figures distinguish between 9 hours per charge and 27 hours with the case. The product specification states passive noise isolation, not active noise cancellation.

Key benefit & highlights

4 grams per earbud, Bluetooth 5.2, USB-C and a charging case included.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro True Wireless

Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro True Wireless

Why it suits this profile: Designed for Galaxy users looking for ANC, immersive sound and extensive settings.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications list separate battery life figures with ANC switched on and off: 6 and 7 hours respectively. The IP57 rating should not be interpreted as meaning the earbuds are suitable for swimming.

Key benefit & highlights

Two-way speaker system, six microphones, Bluetooth 6.1, USB-C and wireless charging.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Mojawa Run Plus Bone Conduction Headphones

Mojawa Run Plus Bone Conduction Headphones

Why it suits this profile: An open-ear solution for running, cycling, swimming and training where staying aware of your surroundings matters.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The design does not block the ear canal. The product listing states IP68 and 32 GB of built-in storage; always check the latest manual before swimming and only charge the device once it is completely dry.

Key benefit & highlights

Bone conduction design, open-ear fit, 32 GB of storage and Bluetooth connectivity.

Suitable for: The office, travel and long working days
JBL Wave Buds 2 Black

JBL Wave Buds 2 – Black

Why it suits this profile: A versatile model for music, calls and switching between devices such as a phone and laptop.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specifications state IP54 for the earbuds and IPX2 for the case. This helps with everyday use, but you should still take care around large amounts of water.

Key benefit & highlights

ANC, Smart Ambient, multipoint connection, USB-C and a stated total playback time of up to 40 hours with ANC switched off.

Looking for more options?

We have compiled 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 wireless earbuds to my phone?

Charge the earbuds and case first. Then open your phone’s Bluetooth settings, put the earbuds into pairing mode and select the product name. With some brands, setup is carried out through a dedicated app. If the connection does not work, remove the old Bluetooth profile and try again.

How long do wireless earbuds last?

Usage time per charge varies depending on the model and settings. ANC, volume, phone calls and temperature all affect battery life. Over time, the capacity of a built-in lithium battery decreases. Store the earbuds in the case, avoid heat and use a suitable USB-C charger to limit unnecessary wear.

Are wireless earbuds suitable for exercise?

That depends on the fit and IP rating. Sports earbuds with ear hooks, clips or an open-ear design may stay more securely in place while you move. Check whether the water resistance only covers sweat and light rain. Do not use a model in the swimming pool unless the product information clearly permits it.