Joybuy Insights

Choosing wireless earbuds: a practical guide for music, calls and sport

Wireless earbuds are handy when you’re out and about, at the office and while exercising. However, making a quick purchase is not always wise. A low price says little about wearing comfort, and a long battery life stated on the packaging does not automatically mean you can listen for hours without using the charging case.

The main pitfalls are:

  • Unclear battery claims: check whether the stated playback time applies per earbud, including the charging case or under specific conditions.
  • The wrong fit: in-ear earbuds provide a good seal, but can become uncomfortable. Open-ear and ear-clip models sit outside the ear canal, but generally provide different levels of sound isolation.
  • Confusion about water resistance: an IPX4 or IPX5 rating is intended for sweat and splashes. It does not make a model suitable for swimming.
  • Noise cancelling without context: active noise cancellation can reduce background noise, but its effectiveness depends on the fit, surroundings and settings. So don’t treat a marketing claim as a guarantee of complete silence.

Which specifications matter?

1. Choose the right design

True wireless earbuds consist of two separate earbuds with no cable between the left and right sides. They are compact and suitable for music, podcasts and calls. In-ear models use silicone ear tips to adjust the fit and sound isolation. Check how many ear tip sizes are included. According to the product information, the Apple AirPods Pro 3 come with five sizes of silicone ear tips.

Open-ear earbuds and ear-clip models rest on or around the ear. They block the ear canal less, allowing you to remain more aware of your surroundings. This can be useful during a walk or running session, although more background noise may also compete with your music on a busy train.

A bone conduction headset places its transducers by the cheekbones rather than inside the ear canal. As a result, the experience differs from that of conventional Bluetooth earbuds. With these models, check especially carefully that music storage, Bluetooth controls and water resistance are actually listed in the specifications.

2. Pay attention to the IP rating

The IP code indicates how well a product is protected against dust and water. The second letter or number is relevant here:

  • IPX4: protection against splashes, suitable for light rain or sweat.
  • IPX5: protection against water jets at limited pressure.
  • IP57: dust protection and temporary immersion according to the stated rating.
  • IP68: a higher level of protection, although the exact conditions depend on the manufacturer.

An IP rating does not automatically make a product suitable for swimming. When charging, the charging port or magnetic connector must be completely dry. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety information.

3. Compare battery life and connectivity

Bluetooth 5.3, 5.4 or 6.0 mainly indicates the Bluetooth version used; it is not a direct measure of sound quality. Also look at range, codec support, multipoint and the stated playback time.

For everyday use, 10 hours of playback per charge may be sufficient. If you work long days, travel frequently or do lengthy training sessions, earbuds with extended battery life and a case that can recharge them several times are more useful. Also check whether the earbuds charge via USB-C and whether wireless charging is supported.

Recommended choices by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
HTC NE40 AI-Powered Translation In-Ear Earbuds

HTC NE40 AI-Powered Translation In-Ear Earbuds

Why it suits this profile: This model offers an accessible combination of TWS controls, Bluetooth connectivity and a built-in microphone for everyday use, studying and conversations.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information gives specific figures: around 3.5 hours per charge and up to 24 hours with the case. This makes the battery claim easier to assess.

Key benefit & advantages

Bluetooth 6.0, range of up to 10 metres, LED display, touch controls and a microphone.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking premium quality
Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro True Wireless

Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro True Wireless

Why it suits this profile: Suitable for anyone who values in-ear comfort, active noise cancellation and features within a Galaxy ecosystem.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications list separate battery-life figures with ANC switched on and off: 6 and 7 hours. They also clearly state that IP57 is not intended for swimming.

Key benefit & advantages

ANC, six microphones, Bluetooth 6.1, two-way speakers, 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 bone conduction design with built-in storage is aimed at running, cycling and gym sessions, and according to the product listing, swimming too.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The listing mentions IP68, 32 GB of storage and an MP3 player. This allows you to check the relevant features for outdoor sport and use in water separately.

Key benefit & advantages

Open-ear design, Bluetooth, 32 GB of storage and IP68 according to the product details.

Suitable for: Calls, sport and everyday use
Anker Soundcore C40i Wireless Open-Ear Headphones

Anker Soundcore C40i Wireless Open-Ear Headphones

Why it suits this profile: The open-ear design, two built-in microphones and button controls are well suited to calls, walking, sport and everyday use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details state IPX4. This helps position the model realistically for sweat and splashes, rather than immersion.

Key benefit & advantages

Bluetooth 5.4, two microphones, open-ear wearing style and physical button controls.

Matching wireless earbuds to your needs

For earbuds for calls and music, microphones, wind reduction and stable Bluetooth are more important than simply the number of drivers. If you mainly watch films or travel, you may prefer in-ear earbuds with noise cancelling. However, check that transparency mode is easy to operate.

For running, sports earbuds with ear hooks, an ear-clip or open-ear construction are often more practical than loose in-ear models. The Soundcore AeroFit Pro, for example, lists an ear hook, IPX5 and up to 14 hours of playback. For swimming, a model with a rating specifically intended for this purpose and built-in storage makes more sense than ordinary Bluetooth earbuds, as Bluetooth has limited usability underwater.

Keep the volume at a moderate level when using your earbuds. Open-ear models improve awareness of your surroundings, but they do not replace attentiveness in traffic. Do not use headphones in situations where you need to remain fully alert.

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.

Frequently asked questions about wireless earbuds

How do I connect Bluetooth earbuds to my phone?

First, charge the earbuds and open your phone’s Bluetooth settings. Remove the earbuds from the case or press and hold the pairing button. Then select the product name from the list. With a previously paired device, many models reconnect automatically.

How long do wireless earbuds last?

Battery life per charge varies by model and settings. ANC, volume, codec and phone calls all affect battery life. Overall lifespan also depends on the built-in battery, charging cycles, temperature and care. Store the earbuds in the case, keep them dry and do not use liquid when cleaning them.

Are wireless earbuds suitable for running?

That depends on the fit and IP rating. Ear hooks, ear-clips and open-ear designs can remain secure during movement. Before buying, check whether the model is sweat- or splash-resistant. A higher IP rating does not automatically mean you can swim with it.