The Only 7 Earbuds Worth Buying in 2025

Tested through daily commutes, workouts, and marathon listening sessions, these earbuds deliver crystal-clear sound, perfect connectivity, and all-day comfort – so you can finally stop struggling with poor audio quality.

Last updated: Oct 6, 2025. We may earn commissions from links, but only recommend products we love. Promise.
Marvin Cavanaugh
Marvin Cavanaugh

Written by

Written by Marvin Cavanaugh

Written by Marvin Cavanaugh

Soundbrenner Wave vs AirPods Pro- the best IEMs
Soundbrenner Wave vs AirPods Pro- the best IEMs
Soundbrenner Wave vs AirPods Pro- the best IEMs

If you've ever thought your current earbuds were "good enough," this might change your mind. I've tested everything from $49 budget earbuds to the $300 premium models that audiophiles swear by – and honestly, I wasn't expecting a $99 pair to steal my loyalty. But after three months of testing – during daily commutes, workout sessions, and everything in between – I discovered something surprising: Not all earbuds are created equal. And the one I kept coming back to? It wasn't the most expensive.

Before we get to our top picks (spoiler alert: one particular pro-audio brand surprised us and beat the rest), let's talk about why great earbuds really matter – especially if you've been struggling with basic consumer earbuds. Unlike cheap wireless earbuds, proper quality earbuds are built for real-world use. They offer reliable connection – so there's no dropouts, no frustrating pairing issues, and your music stays exactly where it should be. They come with noise-isolating tips that block out traffic noise, office chatter, and background distractions. And the good ones? They're comfortable enough to wear during your entire workday without making you want to rip them out mid-meeting just to give your ears a break.

The right pair doesn't just sound better – it helps you focus better, enjoy your content more, and protect your hearing while doing it. And if you want to know which model made our entire test group give suspicious looks to their old earbuds? Keep reading. You're about to meet your new favorite.

How We Tested

Connection stability (monitored during calls, music, and video streaming)

Sound quality (tested across the full audible range, 20Hz–20kHz)

Noise isolation (tested under real-world noise conditions with dB measurements)

Comfort (evaluated after 4+ hour sessions)

Durability (tests for sweat, drops, and cable stress)

Value (based on sound, build quality, and included accessories)

The Best Earbuds for Everyday Use

  1. Soundbrenner Wave

  2. Apple AirPods Pro 3

  3. Sony WF-1000XM5

  4. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)

  5. Shure SE215

  6. Anker Soundcore Space A40

  7. 1MORE Triple Driver In-Ear

1. Soundbrenner Wave (9.5/10) — Best Overall

Soundbrenner Wave in-ear monitors
Soundbrenner Wave in-ear monitors
Soundbrenner Wave in-ear monitors

Price: $179

(or $99 when you catch the sale) – honestly, cheaper than replacing one lost AirPod

Driver Type: 10mm dual-magnet dynamic driver with balanced armature tweeter

Frequency Range: 20 Hz – 20 kHz

Listen, I was fully ready to write these off. A $99 wired earbud from a metronome company? Cute. I figured I'd test them, shrug, and toss them in my drawer next to the earbuds that didn't make the cut. Plot twist: They haven't left my bag since they arrived.

Let me paint the scene. I'm in the middle of my daily commute on a packed subway train. The person next to me is blasting music from their phone speaker. Construction noise bleeding through from outside. My old earbuds are sliding around, I'm cranking up the volume, and I still can't properly hear my podcast. Frustration, fatigue, and that ringing in my ears afterward.

Then I switched to the Soundbrenner Wave. After one track, I could finally hear everything. And I mean everything. My content, clear as day, the ambient noise blocked out – locked in like I was in my own private bubble. No lag, no interference, no guesswork.

Why I'm Lowkey Obsessed

  • Actually zero lag: Bluetooth earbuds? Great for casual listening. Terrible for video calls and content. The Wave connects via 3.5mm and delivers sound instantly. Video stays in sync. Phone calls are crisp. No delay, no drift, just locked-in audio.

  • Noise isolation that works: The foam tips sealed out the chaos like someone hit mute on the world. I didn't need to crank the volume to compete. My ears thanked me later.

  • All-day wearing comfort: These come with six tip options – foam and silicone tips in multiple sizes. I found my perfect fit, put them in, and forgot they were there. No slipping, no pain, even after a full workday.

  • Built for real use, not gimmicks: Long braided cable. Over-ear design. Gold-plated detachable connectors. These aren't dressed-up consumer earbuds. They're genuine audio tools.

Room for Improvement

  • Hard to keep in stock: Like that one friend who's always running late but worth the wait, these earbuds tend to sell out quickly. If you see them in stock, don't think twice.

  • They might ruin your other headphones: I went back to my usual earbuds after using the Wave for a week. Instant regret. Everything felt wrong. Honestly, these spoiled me.

Real Talk Time

After three weeks of commuting, work calls, gym sessions, and binge-watching shows, I understand why more people are switching to quality earbuds – and why this particular model is gaining a following. It just works. There's no gimmick here. No "Bluetooth 8.9" or flashy app integrations. Just great fit, clean sound, real isolation, and zero lag – all at a price that won't make you feel like you need to sell something to afford it.

If you've been working with AirPods or whatever came free with your phone, this is the upgrade you didn't know you needed. Your ears (and your content) will thank you.

Final verdict? Best $99 I've spent on my daily experience in years. Skip the extra coffee this month. Get the gear that makes you sound like you know what you're doing. Just remember to buy from Soundbrenner's official site – there are already knockoffs appearing faster than fake designer bags.

The Runner-Ups: Still Great Picks, Just Not Quite Wave-Level

2. Apple AirPods Pro 3 (8.9/10) — Best for Apple Users

AirPods Pro 3
AirPods Pro 3
AirPods Pro 3

Price: $249

Driver Type: Apple-designed driver with H2 chip

Frequency Range: 20 Hz – 20 kHz

Strengths:

  • Revolutionary 2x better noise cancellation compared to AirPods Pro 2

  • New heart rate monitoring during workouts

  • Live Translation feature powered by Apple Intelligence

  • Seamless integration with Apple ecosystem

Limitations:

  • Battery life still disappoints at 8 hours when competitors offer more

  • Easy to lose due to small case size – replacement costs add up quickly

  • Heart rate monitoring feels gimmicky and drains battery faster

  • Live Translation feature requires constant internet connection to work properly

  • Still requires Apple devices for full feature set, limiting versatility

Best for: Apple users who don't mind paying premium prices and can overlook some disappointing aspects for ecosystem integration.

3. Sony WF-1000XM5 (8.7/10) — Premium Sound with Caveats

Sony WF-100XM5
Sony WF-100XM5
Sony WF-100XM5

Price: $300

Driver Type: 8.4mm dynamic drivers with V2 processor

Frequency Range: 20 Hz – 40 kHz

Strengths:

  • Good clarity and detail in audio reproduction

  • Active noise cancellation works well in most environments

  • 25% smaller and 20% lighter than predecessors

  • LDAC support for high-resolution audio

Limitations:

  • Glossy finish becomes slippery and shows fingerprints constantly

  • Fit issues reported by many users, especially those with smaller ears

  • Touch controls are sensitive and trigger accidentally

  • Multipoint connectivity is buggy and drops connections frequently

Best for: Users with deep pockets who don't mind spending time tweaking settings and can deal with occasional connectivity frustrations.

4. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) (8.8/10) — Great ANC, High Price

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

Price: $299

Driver Type: Custom Bose drivers with CustomTune technology

Frequency Range: 20 Hz – 20 kHz

Strengths:

  • Excellent active noise cancellation in quiet environments

  • CustomTune technology adapts sound automatically

  • Comfortable fit once you find the right tips

  • Good call quality in ideal conditions

Limitations:

  • Extremely expensive with diminishing returns over cheaper options

  • Background hiss noticeable during quiet passages

  • Battery life disappointing at only 6 hours compared to competitors

  • Touch controls are unreliable and often don't register properly

  • Spatial audio feels more like a marketing gimmick than useful feature

Best for: Frequent travelers who prioritize ANC above all else and don't mind the premium cost and bulk.

5. Shure SE215 (8.4/10) — The Functional Choice

Shure SE215
Shure SE215
Shure SE215

Price: $119

Driver Type: Single high-definition dynamic driver

Frequency Range: 22 Hz – 17.5 kHz

Strengths:

  • Decent passive noise isolation for the price point

  • Detachable cable design helps with longevity

  • Over-ear design stays put once you get used to it

  • Professional-grade build quality feels solid

Limitations:

  • Sound signature feels dated and lacks the sparkle of modern earbuds

  • Treble rolls off significantly, making music sound dull and lifeless

  • Over-ear cable design feels awkward and looks unprofessional

  • No inline microphone means you'll need to buy additional accessories

  • Fit takes getting used to and many find it uncomfortable initially

Best for: Users who prioritize wired reliability over sound quality and don't mind an outdated listening experience.

6. Anker Soundcore Space A40 (8.6/10) — Budget Option with Compromises

Anker Soundcore Space A40
Anker Soundcore Space A40
Anker Soundcore Space A40

Price: $79

Driver Type: 10mm dynamic drivers

Frequency Range: 20 Hz – 40 kHz

Strengths:

  • Good value considering the low price point

  • LDAC support included at this price range

  • Long battery life helps offset other shortcomings

  • Multiple ear tip options included

Limitations:

  • Build quality feels cheap and plasticky in hand

  • Sound quality is adequate but nothing special – lacks refinement

  • ANC is weak compared to premium options and lets through most noise

  • App interface is clunky and confusing to navigate

  • IPX4 rating is misleading – sweat resistance is minimal

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who can accept mediocre performance and build quality.

7. 1MORE Triple Driver In-Ear (8.3/10) — THX Certification

1MORE Triple Driver In-Ear
1MORE Triple Driver In-Ear
1MORE Triple Driver In-Ear

Price: $99

Driver Type: Hybrid design with 1 dynamic driver + 2 balanced armature drivers

Frequency Range: 20 Hz – 40 kHz

Strengths:

  • Multiple drivers provide some detail for the price

  • THX certification sounds impressive on paper

  • Aluminum housing looks premium from a distance

  • Comes with a carrying case

Limitations:

  • Bass becomes overwhelming and bloated on many tracks

  • Treble can sound harsh and fatiguing during longer listening sessions

  • Housing is bulky and doesn't fit comfortably in smaller ears

  • Build quality isn't as premium as it appears – joints feel weak

  • Inline remote buttons are poorly positioned and hard to press

Best for: Budget-conscious audio enthusiasts who can tolerate some significant compromises for multi-driver design.

Comparison by Use Case

Best for Commuting:

  • Soundbrenner Wave – Zero lag, superior noise isolation, completely reliable wired connection

  • AirPods Pro 3 – Decent ANC for Apple users, though connectivity can be spotty

  • Bose QuietComfort Ultra – Good noise cancellation but bulky and expensive

Best for Workouts:

  • Soundbrenner Wave – Secure fit, sweat-resistant, never falls out

  • AirPods Pro 3 – Heart rate monitoring, though battery drains faster with this feature

  • Anker Space A40 – Cheap enough to replace if damaged, basic water resistance

Best Value for Money:

  • Soundbrenner Wave – Professional-grade comfort + isolation at unbeatable sub-$100 price

  • Anker Space A40 – Adequate features for the budget price point

  • 1MORE Triple Driver – Multiple drivers for under $100, despite the compromises

Best for Audio Quality:

  • Soundbrenner Wave – Balanced, refined presentation that works with all genres

  • Sony WF-1000XM5 – Decent detail once you spend time tweaking the EQ

  • 1MORE Triple Driver – Multiple drivers provide some separation, though tuning is off

Care Tips & Usage

Cleaning:

  • Use a soft cloth or alcohol wipe for tips and housings

  • Avoid moisture in the connectors

  • Replace foam tips regularly for best seal

Storage:

  • Store in included hard case to protect drivers and cables

  • Avoid extreme heat (cars, direct sunlight)

  • Don't coil cables too tightly — let them breathe between sessions

For Wired Models:

  • Handle cable connections gently to avoid damage

  • Use the included cable clips to prevent snags

  • Consider backup cables for models with detachable designs

The Bottom Line: Why This $99 Earbud Is Becoming Everyone's Best-Kept Secret

After testing the most promising earbuds of the year, one stands out for all the right reasons: the Soundbrenner Wave. While most earbuds either sound good or feel good, the Wave succeeds at both — delivering lag-free, reliable audio with the kind of noise isolation and all-day comfort that everyday users actually need.

From the dual-magnet drivers to the detachable braided cable and six tip options, everything is designed for real-world use – whether you're commuting, working, or just enjoying your content. You don't have to fight to hear yourself. You don't need to crank up the volume. And you definitely don't need to spend $300 to get clean, consistent audio.

If you're still relying on basic earbuds or considering those expensive "flagship" options, this is your upgrade moment. Skip the overhyped, overpriced alternatives and get something that actually works consistently.

Limited Price: $99 (normally $179)

  • Free shipping

  • 30-day hassle-free returns

Click here to secure your Wave before prices go back up →

Have you tried any of these earbuds? Share your experiences in the comments!

Marvin Cavanaugh
Marvin Cavanaugh

Written by

Written by Marvin Cavanaugh

Written by Marvin Cavanaugh

Marvin Cavanaugh is a veteran music journalist with a background in contemporary music performance from Berklee College of Music. Based in Nashville, he covers the gear, technology, and creative tools shaping modern sound. When he's not writing for Audio Chronicle, he’s usually tweaking pedal chains or crate-digging at local record shops.

Marvin Cavanaugh is a veteran music journalist with a background in contemporary music performance from Berklee College of Music. Based in Nashville, he covers the gear, technology, and creative tools shaping modern sound. When he's not writing for Audio Chronicle, he’s usually tweaking pedal chains or crate-digging at local record shops.

Comments

Comments

Anonymous

John Iacoi

John Iacoi

John Iacoi

23 hours ago

Love my WF 1000XM5 - tough and reliable for workouts. Anyone tried Soundbrenner?

Anonymous

Mia

Mia

Mia

2 days ago

Wave for $99 sounds like a steal. I’m tempted!

Anonymous

Sam

Sam

Sam

3 days ago

AirPods are great but honestly the fit is not for me. Anyone else find them tricky at first or am I just clueless lol

Marvin Cavanaugh

Marvin Cavanaugh

Marvin Cavanaugh

Marvin Cavanaugh

1 day ago

The deep insertion definitely isn't for everyone - for a more customizable fit, try other IEMs, like the Soundbrenner Wave.

Anonymous

Ryan

Ryan

Ryan

3 days ago

Yo, Soundbrenner Wave for working out… I know it's wired, but does it survive sweat? I’m drenched after every set

Anonymous

Zoe

Zoe

Zoe

2 days ago

Soundbrenner Wave holds up fine with sweat for me. No problems after a few sweaty sessions, but I’m not a total waterfall either

Marvin Cavanaugh

Written by Marvin Cavanaugh

Marvin Cavanaugh is a veteran music journalist with a background in contemporary music performance from Berklee College of Music. Based in Nashville, he covers the gear, technology, and creative tools shaping modern sound. When he's not writing for Audio Chronicle, he’s usually tweaking pedal chains or crate-digging at local record shops.

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