Joybuy Insights

Choosing wireless earbuds: how to avoid a costly mistake

Wireless earbuds are handy for music, podcasts, calls, travel and exercise. However, a long list of features doesn’t automatically mean a model will suit your everyday needs. A low price may look tempting, for example, but the comfort, microphones or moisture protection might disappoint.

Use these checkpoints to compare Bluetooth earbuds, true wireless earbuds and wireless headphones based on the features that make a difference in everyday use.

Three common pitfalls when choosing wireless earbuds

1. Looking only at the total battery life

Manufacturers often quote listening time including the charging case. That’s not the same as the battery life of a single charge. The Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro, for example, are listed as offering up to 6 hours with ANC on and 7 hours with ANC off, with a total of 26 to 30 hours using the case.

So always check:

  • listening time per charge;
  • listening time with active noise cancellation;
  • the charging case’s capacity;
  • charging time and any fast-charging feature.

A model offering 10 hours per charge may be more practical for long working days, while a compact model with a smaller battery may be more comfortable for commuting.

2. Misinterpreting an IP rating

IPX4, IPX5, IP55 and IP57 don’t mean earbuds are suitable for swimming. The rating indicates the type of dust or moisture a product is protected against under certain conditions.

Examples:

  • IPX4: protection against splashes, depending on the product specifications;
  • IPX5: protection against water jets under the relevant test conditions;
  • IP55: dust protection and protection against water jets;
  • IP57: dust protection and temporary immersion, if this explicitly applies to the entire product.

Check the case too. For many wireless earbuds, the case is less well protected than the earbuds themselves. Dry the earbuds and case before putting them back and charging them.

3. Mistaking ANC for complete silence

ANC earbuds use microphones and electronics to reduce background noise. According to brands’ own information, models can differ in how they adapt to their surroundings. ANC generally works differently against constant low-level noise, such as train or aircraft noise, than it does against voices or sudden sounds.

So don’t focus only on a figure such as “50 dB”. Also look for:

  • a transparency mode;
  • the option to adjust ANC levels;
  • how the earbuds fit;
  • microphone quality for calls.

Key specifications to consider before you buy

Fit and comfort

In-ear earbuds partially seal the ear and often stay in place better when you move. The right fit is important for comfort and sound isolation. Check whether different sizes of ear tips or stability fins are included.

If you want to remain aware of your surroundings, an open-ear model may be an alternative. These models usually offer less sound isolation. You could also browse the range of ear-hook headphones.

Bluetooth, codecs and compatibility

Bluetooth 5.3, 5.4 or 6.1 mainly tells you about the wireless standard; it doesn’t guarantee better sound. Also check that the model works with your smartphone and whether extra features depend on Android, iOS or a brand’s app.

Multipoint or dual-device connectivity is useful if you switch between a laptop and phone. Codecs such as AAC, SBC or LHDC may affect sound quality, but both devices need to support the codec.

Calls and microphones

If you often use your earbuds for meetings or phone calls, check the number of microphones, wind-noise reduction and microphone placement. Claims about “AI noise cancellation” come from the brand’s product description; your experience may vary depending on the wind, traffic and distance from your phone.

Product recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
MINISO MS106 Wireless Bluetooth 6.0 Earphones

MINISO MS106 Wireless Bluetooth 6.0 Earphones

Why it suits this profile: This model combines TWS connectivity with a lightweight design and features for music, studying and phone calls. According to the product description, each earbud weighs 3.9 grams.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specifications list both battery life and IPX5, as well as six microphones. This means you can check these features in advance rather than choosing based on price alone.

Key benefit & highlights

10mm dynamic driver, IPX5 rating and, according to the product description, up to 55 hours with the case.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Apple AirPods Pro 3 - In-Ear Headphones

Apple AirPods Pro 3 - In-Ear Headphones

Why it suits this profile: A good fit for Apple ecosystem users who value ANC, spatial audio and a choice of fit options.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists five sizes of silicone ear tips. This helps you assess the fit rather than focusing only on ANC terminology.

Key benefit & highlights

Bluetooth 5.3, active noise cancellation, IP57 according to the product specifications, and up to 8 hours of battery life with ANC.

Suitable for: Specific needs & intensive use
Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro by Anker

Soundcore Liberty 4 Pro by Anker

Why it suits this profile: Designed for travellers and people working from home who value adjustable noise cancellation, fast charging and call quality.

How this product avoids the pitfall

According to Soundcore’s own information, the noise cancellation regularly adapts to your surroundings. The case also has a display for controls and checking settings.

Key benefit & highlights

According to the product description, up to 10 hours per charge, 40 hours with the case, and 5 minutes of charging for up to 4 hours of playback.

Suitable for: Samsung phone users
Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro True Wireless

Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro True Wireless

Why it suits this profile: A natural choice for users who want to combine Galaxy features, adjustable audio and wireless charging within the same ecosystem.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications list battery life separately with ANC on and off, as well as IP57. This gives you a clearer idea of what to expect in different situations.

Key benefit & highlights

2-way speaker system, six microphones, Bluetooth 6.1, wireless charging and, according to the product specifications, 30 hours in total without ANC.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that 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?

First, charge the earbuds, open your smartphone’s Bluetooth settings and select the product name. Many models start pairing automatically when you open the case. If that doesn’t work, remove any previous Bluetooth pairing and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

How long do wireless earbuds last?

Battery life per charge often ranges from a few hours to around 10 hours, depending on volume, codec and ANC. Total battery life with the case is longer. The earbuds’ physical lifespan depends on charging cycles, cleaning, moisture and storage. Keep them dry and don’t charge them if the contacts are wet.

Are expensive wireless earbuds automatically better?

No. A more expensive model may offer extra features such as ANC, spatial audio, multipoint or wireless charging. If you mainly listen to podcasts on the go, basic Bluetooth earbuds may be enough. For calls, exercise or travel, fit, microphones, battery life and IP rating are often more important than the brand alone.