Joybuy Insights

Choosing wireless noise-cancelling earbuds: how to avoid a bad buy

A pair of wireless noise-cancelling earbuds can make travelling by train, working in the office or taking a flight more comfortable. But a high dB rating or long battery life doesn’t tell the whole story. Some models become uncomfortable after a short time, lose their connection during calls or turn out to be less suitable for sport than their name suggests.

So look out for these three common pitfalls:

  • ANC is mistaken for good call quality. Active noise cancellation is designed to reduce background noise for the listener. For calls, the microphones and noise reduction at the other end of the connection are just as important.
  • The battery claim may not apply with ANC enabled. Manufacturers often quote the maximum listening time with active noise cancellation switched off. Check the listening time with ANC on, and look at the charging case’s capacity too.
  • Water resistance is interpreted too generously. IPX4 is suitable for splashes, but not for submersion. Even with a higher IP rating, protection may apply only to the earbuds, not the case.

Which specifications really matter?

1. ANC, transparency mode and call quality

Earbuds with ANC use built-in microphones to detect background noise and create an opposing signal. Performance varies by model and also depends on the fit. A well-sealing silicone ear tip can often help reduce low-frequency background noise, but may make surrounding sounds less audible when you’re walking.

A transparency mode lets in sounds from your surroundings. This is useful at a station or when someone is talking to you. Also check how many microphones the earbuds have and whether the manufacturer mentions a call algorithm. Claims such as “filters 90% of background noise” should be treated as the brand’s own claim, not as a guaranteed experience in every environment.

2. Battery life in practice

Compare these three figures:

  • listening time per earbud with ANC on;
  • total listening time with the charging case;
  • fast-charging time via USB-C.

A model offering 7 hours per charge may be enough for your daily commute. For long journeys, earbuds with long battery life or wireless headphones with a larger battery are more practical. Bear in mind that high volume, phone calls and active noise cancellation can reduce battery life.

3. Fit, IP rating and connectivity

In-ear models are compact, but choosing the right ear tip size is important for comfort and passive noise isolation. A neckband model is often easier to keep track of when you’re on the move than separate true wireless earbuds. Over-ear wireless headphones may be more comfortable on long flights, but take up more space.

When choosing Bluetooth earbuds, look for:

  • the Bluetooth version;
  • multipoint if you want to switch between a laptop and phone;
  • codecs such as SBC, AAC or LDAC;
  • a low-latency mode for gaming.

An IPX4 or IP54 rating doesn’t mean you can rinse the product under a tap or swim with it. Always check which part of the set is protected. Standard sports earbuds aren’t automatically suitable for intensive exercise or swimming.

Our recommendations for different situations

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Redmi Buds 6 Play White

Redmi Buds 6 Play White

Why it suits this profile: This model is designed for everyday listening and, according to the product specifications, offers 7.5 hours of listening time per charge and 36 hours with the case.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated battery life clearly distinguishes between a single charge and use with the case. The IPX4 rating for the earbuds helps avoid mistaking splash resistance for waterproofing.

Main benefit & highlights

Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C and a weight of 3.6 grams per earbud, according to the product specifications.

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

Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro True Wireless

Why it suits this profile: The product specifications list ANC, a two-way speaker system, 6 microphones, 360 Audio and support for Galaxy features.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Battery life is specified as 6 hours with ANC and 7 hours without it. This makes it easier to compare the claim with your own listening habits.

Main benefit & highlights

IP57 rating for the earbuds, USB-C, wireless charging and Bluetooth 6.1, according to the listed specifications.

Suitable for: Specific needs & intensive users
Verbex X7S Black Earphones

Verbex X7S Black Earphones

Why it suits this profile: This bone-conduction model is designed for sports use and lists 32 GB of internal memory and an IPX8 rating.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specifications explicitly mention use in fresh water and swimming pools. The charging contacts must be completely dry before charging; IPX8 doesn’t mean you can use the product without any restrictions.

Main benefit & highlights

Bone-conduction design, Bluetooth connectivity and a stated battery life of 8 hours.

Suitable for: Travellers and home workers
UGREEN HiTune Max5c ANC Headphones White

UGREEN HiTune Max5c ANC Headphones White

Why it suits this profile: These over-ear wireless headphones are designed for travel, music and long listening sessions with ANC.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specifications distinguish between 75 hours without ANC and 45 hours with ANC. There’s also a transparency mode for when you want to hear what’s happening around you.

Main benefit & highlights

40 mm driver, Bluetooth 5.4, LDAC support, app equaliser and a 3.5 mm connection, according to the product information.

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

Are wireless noise-cancelling earbuds suitable for calls?

That depends on the microphones, wind filtering and software. ANC mainly protects the listener from background noise. For calls, look for multiple microphones, a dedicated call noise-reduction feature and multipoint if you often switch between your phone and laptop.

How long do noise-cancelling earbuds last?

Battery capacity decreases over time, as it does with other products that have a built-in lithium battery. Use the case and earbuds according to the instructions, avoid exposing them to heat and check the battery life with ANC switched on. The charging case for separate earbuds usually isn’t designed to be opened or replaced by the user.

What are the running costs of wireless ANC earbuds?

As well as the purchase price, replacement ear tips, any app and charging accessories are worth considering. USB-C makes charging easier, as you can often use the same cable for other devices. Check the accessories and warranty conditions before ordering too.