Train noise, office chatter or wind while cycling: wireless earbuds with noise cancelling can make everyday listening more peaceful. However, a high ANC figure on the packaging does not tell the whole story. Fit, microphones, battery life and water resistance are at least as important in determining whether your purchase is practical for everyday use in the Netherlands.
As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I filter product information based on verifiable specifications. Below, you’ll learn which marketing claims deserve scrutiny, which features genuinely matter and which true wireless earbuds suit different use cases.
Brands sometimes advertise noise reduction of 46 or 49 dB, for example. According to the brand’s own research or measurements, this usually refers to a specific test setup. Results may vary depending on frequency, surroundings and fit.
ANC earbuds generally perform better against constant low-frequency sounds, such as the rumble of a train or aircraft, than against voices or sudden noises. Also check whether a transparency mode is available. This allows you to intentionally let in surrounding sounds without removing the earbuds.
Packaging may state a total playback time of 30, 40 or 50 hours. This often includes multiple recharges via the charging case. Therefore, look for these separate figures:
A model offering 8 to 10 hours per charge may be more suitable for long workdays than one with an impressive total figure but a shorter standalone playback time.
The IP rating consists of two numbers or letters. The first part indicates protection against dust, while the second refers to water resistance. IPX4 protects against splashes; IPX5 protects against water jets under certain conditions. Neither rating makes a model suitable for submersion.
Also pay attention to the case. With some sports earbuds, the earbuds are splash-resistant while the charging case must remain dry. Sweat, rain and condensation still require careful storage and cleaning.
For in-ear earbuds, fit affects both comfort and sound isolation. A poorly fitting ear tip can come loose more easily while walking or exercising and allows more ambient sound to enter. Check whether multiple ear tip sizes are included. According to the product information, the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC and Liberty 4 Pro come with additional ear tips. The Apple AirPods Pro 3 lists five sizes of silicone tips.
An open or semi-open design, as found on some earbuds, may feel more comfortable, but it generally blocks sound differently from a fully sealed in-ear model.
For earbuds for music and calls, the number and placement of microphones are useful indicators, but they do not guarantee noise-free conversations. According to the specifications, the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC and Liberty 4 Pro have six microphones. The OnePlus Buds Pro 3 lists three microphones and a VPU sensor.
Also check whether the model supports multipoint connectivity. This allows certain models to connect to, for example, a laptop and smartphone simultaneously. Be sure to check compatibility with your operating system and the features available in the accompanying app.
Bluetooth 5.3 or 5.4 primarily indicates the connection standard; it does not independently determine sound quality. Supported codecs can affect transmission and compatibility. The Soundcore Liberty 4 NC lists Bluetooth 5.3 and LDAC. The OnePlus Buds Pro 3 lists Bluetooth 5.4 and the LHDC, AAC and SBC codecs.
An Apple model also works with other Bluetooth devices, but some features are more closely integrated with iOS. With Google and Samsung models, additional settings may be available primarily within Android or the brand’s own ecosystem.
Why it’s a good fit: A practical all-rounder for music, phone calls and everyday travel, with USB-C and a charging case.
The product information lists up to 10 hours of playback per charge, six microphones, Bluetooth 5.3 and IPX4 splash resistance. Check the current product specifications upon delivery.
Additional ear tips, touch controls, USB-C and an included charging case.
Why it’s a good fit: Convenient for everyday use within the Apple ecosystem, with automatic features such as Conversation Awareness, according to the product description.
The product information lists ANC, a transparency mode, Bluetooth 5.3 and a USB-C case. Stated battery figures vary by usage mode, so check the current specification table.
According to the product information, the case supports fast charging and the earbuds have IP54 dust and splash protection.
Why it’s a good fit: Designed for sports, travel and extended listening sessions, with IP55 protection and up to 44 hours of total playback with the case.
IP55 offers greater protection against dust and water jets than IPX4, but swimming and submersion are still unsuitable. The case must be stored in a dry place.
Bluetooth 5.4, multipoint, three microphones plus a VPU, and control via presses and swipes.
Browse our current selection of ANC true wireless earbuds and compare models by features, fit, battery life and water resistance.
With most Bluetooth earbuds, ANC only works when the built-in electronics are switched on. Playing music without Bluetooth is usually not possible because the earbuds do not have their own music storage. The battery also powers ANC and microphone functions.
That depends on charging cycles, usage and maintenance. Stated playback time per charge often decreases over time as the built-in battery ages. Do not store the earbuds in heat or direct sunlight for extended periods, and use a suitable USB-C charger.
They can be, but call quality depends on wind, traffic, microphones and software. Look at the number of microphones and any ENC or wind-noise reduction, but do not treat marketing claims as a guarantee. When cycling or crossing busy intersections, staying aware of your surroundings remains essential.