Joybuy Insights

Choosing wireless earbuds: how to avoid a disappointing purchase

Wireless earbuds are convenient for making calls, travelling, working and exercising. However, a long list of features does not automatically mean that a model will suit your everyday use. An uncomfortable fit, an unclear battery claim or an insufficient protection rating can quickly lead to disappointment.

The Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer helps you assess the key differences without taking marketing language at face value. Below, you’ll find practical points to consider and three popular choices for different situations.

Common pitfalls when choosing Bluetooth earbuds

1. Total battery life is confused with listening time

With many true wireless earbuds, the battery life refers to the earbuds and charging case combined. Always check:

  • the playback time per charge;
  • the total playback time with the charging case;
  • whether noise cancelling is switched on;
  • the stated conditions, such as a specific volume level.

For example, according to the product information, the Apple AirPods Pro 3 offer up to 8 hours with active noise cancelling and up to 10 hours in Transparency mode. The Sony WF-C710N offers up to 30 hours with noise cancelling and up to 40 hours without it. These are stated figures; actual use may vary depending on volume, connection and settings.

2. Noise cancelling is not the same as a good seal

Active noise cancelling, also known as ANC, uses electronics to reduce certain sounds from your surroundings. Performance also depends on the fit and seal of the earbuds. A model with several silicone ear tip sizes may therefore create a better seal than a model with one fixed size.

Also pay attention to the difference between:

  • ANC: electronic noise reduction;
  • ENC: noise reduction for the microphone during calls;
  • passive isolation: sound is partially blocked by the shape of the earbud.

According to Apple’s own information, the AirPods Pro 3 feature active noise cancelling and five sizes of silicone ear tips. According to the listed specifications, the Apple AirPods 4 do not have active noise cancelling, but they do offer passive sound isolation.

3. Water-resistant does not mean waterproof

An IP rating consists of two digits, or a digit and a letter. The first digit refers to protection against dust; the second refers to protection against water. IPX4, for example, is intended to protect against splashes, while IP55 indicates protection against dust and water jets under certain test conditions.

Keep these practical points in mind:

  • IPX4 is not intended for immersion;
  • a charging case may have a different IP rating from the earbuds;
  • sweat and light rain are not the same as swimming;
  • only charge the earbuds once the connections are dry.

Important specifications to check

Fit and wearing style

In-ear earbuds partially seal the ear canal and are compact. On-ear headphones, such as the Sony WH-CH520 and Marshall Major IV, rest on the ear and generally have an adjustable headband. They take up more space, but can be comfortable during long listening sessions.

Open-ear earbuds and bone conduction headphones leave the ear canal largely unobstructed. This can be useful when you want to remain aware of your surroundings. However, check whether the design stays secure while walking, running or cycling. The Verbex K08 uses an ear-hook design and lists Bluetooth, multipoint connectivity and a battery life of up to 8 hours.

Connection and microphone

Bluetooth 5.2, 5.3 and 5.4 refer to different Bluetooth generations. A higher version number alone is no guarantee of better sound. Also check:

  • support for multipoint;
  • compatibility with Android, iOS or laptops;
  • whether a microphone is included;
  • the available audio codecs;
  • range, which is around 10 metres for several models.

Earbuds with a microphone are suitable for calls and online meetings, but clarity also depends on wind, background noise and the microphone’s position. ENC or call noise reduction may help according to the brand’s product information, but should not be presented as a guaranteed result in every environment.

Battery, charging port and conditions of use

USB-C is now standard for wireless audio. Some models also offer fast charging or wireless charging. According to the product description, the Marshall Major IV offers more than 80 hours of wireless playback and wireless charging. The Sony WH-CH520 lists a battery life of up to 50 hours, multipoint and a weight of 147 grams.

For exercise, sports earbuds with a suitable protection rating make more sense than a large on-ear model. Always check whether the product is suitable for sweat and light rain, and store it somewhere dry after use.

Our recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Bluetooth Headphones - Black

Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Bluetooth Headphones - Black

Why it suits this profile: These lightweight on-ear headphones are suitable for everyday listening, working from home and travelling. The adjustable headband and multipoint connectivity make them practical for use with a phone and laptop.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists the Bluetooth connection, microphone and multipoint function separately. This allows you to check these features rather than relying solely on a general battery claim.

Key benefit & advantages

147 grams, Bluetooth and multipoint connectivity; the stated battery life is up to 50 hours.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking premium quality
Apple AirPods Pro 3 - In-Ear Headphones

Apple AirPods Pro 3 - In-Ear Headphones

Why it suits this profile: This model is designed for Apple users looking for active noise cancelling, spatial audio and control via an Apple device.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The five listed ear tip sizes help you assess the fit. Battery life is also stated separately for noise cancelling and Transparency mode.

Key benefit & advantages

Bluetooth 5.3, active noise cancelling, microphone and, according to the listing, IP57 dust and water protection.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Baseus Bowie MC1 Open-Ear TWS Clip Earbuds Cosmic Black

Baseus Bowie MC1 Open-Ear TWS Clip Earbuds Cosmic Black

Why it suits this profile: The open-ear clip design is intended for users who want to feel less cut off from their surroundings while walking or working.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information clearly states that this model is not waterproof. This prevents you from confusing an open-ear design with water-resistant sports earbuds.

Key benefit & advantages

Bluetooth 5.4, a stated range of 10 metres in open environments and a USB-C charging port.

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 wireless earbuds to my phone?

Switch on Bluetooth on your phone, open the charging case and select the earbuds’ name from the Bluetooth list. With many models, pairing starts automatically when you open the case. If this does not work, remove the old pairing and check the manual.

How long do wireless earbuds last?

Battery life per charge often varies from a few hours to around 10 or 12 hours. The charging case extends the total usage time. The lifespan of the built-in battery depends on charging cycles, temperature and storage. Keep the earbuds dry and avoid prolonged exposure to heat.

Do wireless earbuds use a lot of power?

No, their power consumption while charging is limited. However, you should take the charging case and any fast-charging function into account. Use a suitable USB-C charger and do not charge a wet connection. This helps limit unnecessary wear and charging problems.