What are the best earbuds for your Samsung phone or tablet? Well, the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are arguably the best earbuds you can get for your Galaxy device. Equipped with some special extra features for Galaxy device users, including spatial audio and hands-free Bixby, they not only sound excellent but offer good noise canceling and work very well for making calls (the standard Galaxy Buds 3 have an open design). But if you don’t want to go with Samsung headphones, there are plenty of other choices, and you can always check out our lists of best wireless earbuds and headphones to find more options. Here are my current favorites.
Best wireless earbuds and headphones for Samsung Phones of 2025
<div content="X – LIST ITEM" superlative="Best wireless earbuds for Samsung users" description="
If you’re able to get a tight seal with one of the three sizes of included ear tips, there’s little to complain about with Samsung’s Galaxy Buds 3 Pro. Yes, the noise cancellation could be a touch better, but the earbuds’ excellent sound quality is clearly a step-up from that of the Buds 2 Pro. Plus, they have a robust feature set, and their voice-calling performance is truly top-notch.
” page-position linktext=”Read our Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro review” linkurl=”https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/samsung-galaxy-buds-3-pro-review-better-than-the-airpods-pro-2-in-some-ways/” like=”~ Lightweight and comfortable ~ Very good sound quality ~ Decent noise canceling ~ Excellent voice-calling performance ~ Lights in buds are kind of cool” dislike=”~ A little pricey ~ Design looks a tad generic ~ Touch controls are a bit too complicated and finicky ” additional-author additional-date additional-time can-collapse=”false” can-truncate=”false” truncate-on-page-load=”false” offer=”{"id":"57fb263b-abdb-4d4b-9044-bac629335255","label":"SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds 3 Pro AI True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds, Noise Cancelling, Sound Optimization, Real-Time Interpreter, Redesigned Comfort Fit (White)","slug":"samsung-galaxy-buds-3-pro-ai-true-wireless-bluetooth-earbuds-noise-cancelling-sound-optimization-real-time-smr630","edition":["us"],"imageId":"8b2cf2fb-d93b-4664-b220-d1fb55923c18","imgUrl":"https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/8fa706e214d7095bae9392cd7e03d996f7782e82/hub/2024/10/31/8b2cf2fb-d93b-4664-b220-d1fb55923c18/galaxy-buds-pro-3-white-1.jpg?auto=webp&width=300&height=300&fit=crop","imageHeight":0,"imageWidth":0,"typeLabel":"Product","objectType":"content_product","icon":""}” techobjectinfo=”{"uuid":"57fb263b-abdb-4d4b-9044-bac629335255","slug":"samsung-galaxy-buds-3-pro-ai-true-wireless-bluetooth-earbuds-noise-cancelling-sound-optimization-real-time-smr630","name":"SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds 3 Pro AI True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds, Noise Cancelling, Sound Optimization, Real-Time Interpreter, Redesigned Comfort Fit (White)","productType":"PRODUCT","updateType":"AUTOPID","mod":1739472021720}” overridecredit overridecaption imagegroup=”{"uuid":"a65cb42f-2811-4d28-96df-890a085eb8b8","alt":"White Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and their case on a blue background. ","caption":"
The Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are available in white or silver.
The Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are available in white or silver.
","imageCredit":"David Carnoy/CNET","imageAltText":"White Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and their case on a blue background. ","imageFilename":"samsung-galaxy-buds-3-pro-blue-background-1.jpg","imageWidth":3517,"imageHeight":1978,"imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageDateCreated":"2024-08-01","imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}” usepricing=”false” ng-block=”{"id":"xwyto8o5v6xx7u5","type":"cross-content-listicle"}” edition=”us” data-key=”cross_content_listicle__eecdfa97-bb6a-4bd4-86df-90e804e38f47″ contenttype=”Best List – Precap” pagelayout=”Default – Article Page” tagslugs=”gap-project,hv45,freelance-update,samsung,samsung-galaxy” isbestlistredesign=”true” imagecredit imagealttext=”White Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and their case on a blue background. ” class=”c-bestListListicle”>
SCORE
8.4
SCORE
8.3
9.2
Photo Gallery1/1
When you have a product that a lot of people love, change can be risky. Such is the case for Sony’s WH-1000XM5, the fifth generation of the 1000X series headphones, which were first released in 2016 as the MDR-1000X Wireless and have become increasingly popular as they’ve improved with each generation.
Over the years, Sony has made some tweaks to the design, but nothing as dramatic as what it’s done with the WH-1000XM5. Other than the higher price tag, most of those changes are good, and Sony’s made some dramatic improvements with voice-calling performance, as well as even better noise-canceling and more refined sound.
CNET Score Breakdown
9.2 /10
<div content="X – LIST ITEM" superlative="JBL noise-canceling earbuds with LCD in case" description="
The Live Beam 3 earbuds look similar to the earlier Live Buds Pro 2, which I like a lot, especially when they go on sale for less than $100. Essentially JBL’s AirPods Pro 2 competitor, their distinguishing feature is the 1.45-inch touchscreen LCD integrated into their charging case that acts as a remote control for the buds and allows you to access their features. Equipped with 10mm drivers, not only do they offer clear, well-defined sound with punchy bass but their noise canceling and voice-calling performance are very solid. Their battery is also good — they offer up to 10 hours of battery life with ANC on and 12 hours with it off at moderate volume levels (a 10-minute charge gives you four hours of battery life). Available in four color options, they’re IP55 splash-proof and dust-resistant.
Note that JBL’s flagship Tour Pro 3 earbuds also have an integrated LCD but feature dual drivers, which deliver even better sound than these buds with a little more depth and detail. However, the Live Beam 3 often sell for $50 off their $200 list price, which makes them a better deal overall.
” page-position linktext=”Full Review” linkurl=”https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/jbl-tour-pro-2-earbuds-stand-out-for-their-touchscreen-case/” like=”~Comfortable design ~Strong solid quality, noise canceling and voice-calling performance ~Touch-screen LCD integrated in case ~Good battery life ~Wireless charging” dislike=”~Noise canceling is good but not top notch” additional-author=”930c8dec-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0″ additional-date=”2024-11-15″ additional-time=”16:16″ can-collapse=”false” can-truncate=”false” truncate-on-page-load=”false” offer=”{"id":"2121bf58-7500-4512-befa-7d49fcfa21c9","label":"JBL – Live Beam 3 True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds – Black","slug":"jbl-live-beam-3-true-wireless-noise-cancelling-earbuds-black","edition":["us"],"imageId":"b5c5ba74-4d76-4df6-ae5c-f2f85f25659d","imgUrl":"https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/f63592be9a473526924e2515c8efff3be3eb443a/hub/2024/07/07/b5c5ba74-4d76-4df6-ae5c-f2f85f25659d/6582671-sd.jpg?auto=webp&width=300&height=300&fit=crop","imageHeight":0,"imageWidth":0,"typeLabel":"Product","objectType":"content_product","icon":""}” techobjectinfo=”{"uuid":"2121bf58-7500-4512-befa-7d49fcfa21c9","slug":"jbl-live-beam-3-true-wireless-noise-cancelling-earbuds-black","name":"JBL – Live Beam 3 True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds – Black","productType":"PRODUCT","updateType":"PRISM","mod":1739472020484}” overridecredit overridecaption imagegroup=”{"uuid":"b0ebbeb4-298d-4efd-ab92-18fbf5e58534","alt":"jbl-beam-3-blue-1.jpg","caption":null,"credits":"David Carnoy/CNET","imageData":{"id":"b0ebbeb4-298d-4efd-ab92-18fbf5e58534","filename":"jbl-beam-3-blue-1.jpg","path":"https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/8fea4fc14f578c235024f1957d40d501eb5dedfb/hub/2024/11/15/b0ebbeb4-298d-4efd-ab92-18fbf5e58534/jbl-beam-3-blue-1.jpg?auto=webp&height=500","dateCreated":{"date":"2024-11-15 21:25:01.000000","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"size":"","float":"","lightbox":false,"imageUrl":"https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/8fea4fc14f578c235024f1957d40d501eb5dedfb/hub/2024/11/15/b0ebbeb4-298d-4efd-ab92-18fbf5e58534/jbl-beam-3-blue-1.jpg?auto=webp&height=500","imageCaption":null,"imageCredit":"David Carnoy/CNET","imageAltText":"jbl-beam-3-blue-1.jpg","imageFilename":"jbl-beam-3-blue-1.jpg","imageWidth":3564,"imageHeight":2005,"imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageDateCreated":"2024-11-15","imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}” usepricing=”false” ng-block=”{"id":"ftixu6db9rq7ukw","type":"cross-content-listicle"}” edition=”us” data-key=”cross_content_listicle__6c5705b3-94d6-48d3-a560-ac3f29c0e603″ contenttype=”Best List – Precap” pagelayout=”Default – Article Page” tagslugs=”gap-project,hv45,freelance-update,samsung,samsung-galaxy” isbestlistredesign=”true” imagecredit imagealttext=”jbl-beam-3-blue-1.jpg” class=”c-bestListListicle”>
SCORE
7.9
Photo Gallery1/1
Available in white or silver, the Galaxy Buds 3 are open earbuds like the standard AirPods that are designed for people who don’t like having ear tips jammed in their ears. Like Samsung’s earlier open earbuds, the Galaxy Buds Live (aka The Beans), the Buds 3 have some active noise canceling, but you can barely tell it’s engaged (it’s hard to do noise canceling with open earbuds though managed to do a decent job with the ANC version of its AirPods 4 buds ). While the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro offer superior sound, these buds do sound good for open earbuds and fit my ears pretty securely. They also have good voice-calling performance as well bult-in voice controls (along with touch controls).
<div content="X – LIST ITEM" superlative="Best budget Galaxy earbuds" description="
If you can’t afford the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, the standard Galaxy Buds 2 are a good option. Released in 2021, they don’t sound as good as the newer Galaxy Buds 2 Pro or have quite as effective noise canceling. They do offer decent sound and noise canceling along with very good voice-calling performance, and they often are discounted to around $100. The Buds 2, like the earlier Buds Plus, is only IPX2 sweat-resistant. That means they should be fine for lighter workouts, but it’s probably best to avoid wearing them in a rainstorm.
Sony’s improved entry-level noise-canceling headphones, the CH-720Ns, have a bit of a plastic-y, budget vibe, but they’re lightweight and comfortable. Part of me was expecting them to sound pretty mediocre, but I was pleasantly surprised. No, they don’t sound as good as the WH-1000XM5s. They sound more premium than they look and feel, and their overall performance is a nice step up from their predecessor, the CH-710Ns. Are they worth $150? Maybe — or maybe not. The good news is that, like the CH-710N and WH-XB910 before them, these should see some nice discounts in the not-so-distant future.
CNET Score Breakdown
8.0 /10
<div content="X – LIST ITEM" superlative="Samsung earbuds with sport fins" description="
with a list price of $100, Samsung’s new-for-2023 Galaxy Buds FE feature a single driver (Samsung isn’t saying what size it is), three mics on each earbud and active noise canceling. They charge in a case that’s the same size and shape as what you currently get with all of Samsung’s latest Galaxy Buds, including the Galaxy Buds 2 and Galaxy Buds 2 Pro. And they look a lot like an updated version of Samsung’s discontinued Galaxy Buds Plus earbuds, which also came with a set of swappable fins that helped create a secure, comfortable fit. Like those buds, the Galaxy Buds FE are sweat-resistant with an IPX2 water-resistance rating that protects against splashes.
They don’t sound quite as rich as the Galaxy Buds Pro, and their voice-calling performance isn’t up to the Buds Pro’s level (it’s decent, not great). But they do offer respectable sound quality (it’s certainly as good as the Galaxy Buds 2’s) and decent noise canceling. I also found them to be lightweight and comfortable to wear. While they may not measure up to more premium earbuds, including the Buds Pro, they deliver good bang for the buck. The Galaxy Buds FE are rated for up to 6 hours of battery life with noise canceling on and 8.5 hours with it off.
” page-position linktext linkurl like=”~Lightweight, compact design with sport fins ~Comfortable, secure fit ~Good sound quality for the price ~Decent noise canceling” dislike=”~Sweat-resistant (IPX2 rating) but should be at least IPX4″ additional-author additional-date additional-time can-collapse=”false” can-truncate=”false” truncate-on-page-load=”false” offer=”{"id":"427ec5e0-26c5-45c4-bf15-ffc166d219b8","label":"Samsung – Galaxy Buds FE Wireless Earbud Headphones – Graphite","slug":"samsung-galaxy-buds-fe-wireless-earbud-headphones-graphite","edition":["us"],"imageId":"8d5eefed-4415-4a23-afab-ba85f4de54b4","imgUrl":"https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/5ad1b4975d15a23bc82a4d4d17122f69373b8e77/hub/2023/10/04/8d5eefed-4415-4a23-afab-ba85f4de54b4/6560685-sd.jpg?auto=webp&width=300&height=300&fit=crop","imageHeight":0,"imageWidth":0,"typeLabel":"Product","objectType":"content_product","icon":""}” techobjectinfo=”{"uuid":"427ec5e0-26c5-45c4-bf15-ffc166d219b8","slug":"samsung-galaxy-buds-fe-wireless-earbud-headphones-graphite","name":"Samsung – Galaxy Buds FE Wireless Earbud Headphones – Graphite","productType":"PRODUCT","updateType":"AUTOPID","mod":1739472021090}” overridecredit=”Screenshot by David Carnoy/CNET” overridecaption=”
The Galaxy Buds FE in graphite.
” imagegroup=”{"uuid":"f30dfe48-db39-48f6-9e3d-4c2e559052fd","alt":"The Galaxy Buds FE out of their case in front of a blue background. ","caption":"
The Galaxy Buds FE in graphite.
","credits":"Screenshot by David Carnoy/CNET","imageData":{"id":"f30dfe48-db39-48f6-9e3d-4c2e559052fd","filename":"samsung-galaxy-buds-fe-black-blue-background.png","path":"https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/a448caf281c160944821e3c157a0fa22052f9cbc/hub/2023/10/03/f30dfe48-db39-48f6-9e3d-4c2e559052fd/samsung-galaxy-buds-fe-black-blue-background.png?auto=webp&format=pjpg&height=500","dateCreated":{"date":"2023-10-03 20:30:51.000000","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"size":"","float":"","lightbox":false,"imageUrl":"https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/a448caf281c160944821e3c157a0fa22052f9cbc/hub/2023/10/03/f30dfe48-db39-48f6-9e3d-4c2e559052fd/samsung-galaxy-buds-fe-black-blue-background.png?auto=webp&format=pjpg&height=500","imageCaption":"
The Galaxy Buds FE in graphite.
","imageCredit":"Screenshot by David Carnoy/CNET","imageAltText":"The Galaxy Buds FE out of their case in front of a blue background. ","imageFilename":"samsung-galaxy-buds-fe-black-blue-background.png","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageDateCreated":"2023-10-03","imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}” usepricing=”true” ng-block=”{"id":"18fmfvcub2irccq","type":"cross-content-listicle"}” edition=”us” data-key=”cross_content_listicle__e3a4c3a8-67ce-41d5-a023-15680208c7ea” contenttype=”Best List – Precap” pagelayout=”Default – Article Page” tagslugs=”gap-project,hv45,freelance-update,samsung,samsung-galaxy” isbestlistredesign=”true” imagecredit=”Screenshot by David Carnoy/CNET” imagealttext=”The Galaxy Buds FE out of their case in front of a blue background. ” class=”c-bestListListicle”>
<div content="X – LIST ITEM" superlative="Best earbuds for Pixel smartphone and Android users" description="
Google’s redesigned its Pixel Buds Pro 2 to fit more ears better. Not only are the Pixel Buds Pro 2 smaller than their predecessor but Google’s equipped them with its new Tensor A1 chip, which offers more processing power and enables its new "hands-free, eyes-free" Gemini virtual AI assistant. So long as you get a snug fit and tight seal (yes, that’s critical for sound quality and noise-canceling performance), these buds deliver excellent sound, strong noise-muffling capabilities and a robust feature set, particularly for Android and Google Pixel phone users.
” page-position linktext=”Full Review” linkurl=”https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/google-pixel-buds-pro-2-review-a-worthy-upgrade-with-one-caveat/” like=”~ Smaller design
~ Improved sound and noise-canceling
~ New, more powerful Tensor A1 chip
~ Excellent battery life
~ Good voice-calling performance
~ Hands-free Google Assistant for Android users
~ Spatial audio” dislike=”~ Ear tips may not allow some people to get a tight seal
~ No support for AptX or LDAC audio codecs for Android users ~ A few features not available for Apple users” additional-author=”930c8dec-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0″ additional-date=”2024-10-07″ additional-time=”14:56″ can-collapse=”false” can-truncate=”false” truncate-on-page-load=”false” offer=”{"id":"d97fdba6-6d6a-4ac2-808f-743f2a802a68","label":"Google – Pixel Buds Pro 2 – Wireless Earbuds with Active Noise Cancellation – Bluetooth Headphones – Hazel","slug":"google-pixel-buds-pro-2-wireless-earbuds-with-active-noise-cancellation-bluetooth-headphones-hazel-ga05762us","edition":["us"],"imageId":"2bfa3c23-0ae5-4e5c-98c1-ae16a1e130a7","imgUrl":"https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/8932696b5c4c750417c8af8a3644a9d79418ec16/hub/2024/08/14/2bfa3c23-0ae5-4e5c-98c1-ae16a1e130a7/9d254267-aaab-4495-96ed-a1fa8014d2a6.jpg?auto=webp&width=300&height=300&fit=crop","imageHeight":0,"imageWidth":0,"typeLabel":"Product","objectType":"content_product","icon":""}” techobjectinfo=”{"uuid":"d97fdba6-6d6a-4ac2-808f-743f2a802a68","slug":"google-pixel-buds-pro-2-wireless-earbuds-with-active-noise-cancellation-bluetooth-headphones-hazel-ga05762us","name":"Google – Pixel Buds Pro 2 – Wireless Earbuds with Active Noise Cancellation – Bluetooth Headphones – Hazel","productType":"PRODUCT","updateType":"EZMONEY","mod":1739472021731}” overridecredit overridecaption imagegroup=”{"uuid":"8281b7ff-670a-4e6e-9924-5c0f2a258455","alt":"Two pairs of Pink Pixel Buds 2 in the colors Wintergreen and Peony rest on a white background. ","caption":"","credits":"CNET","imageData":{"id":"8281b7ff-670a-4e6e-9924-5c0f2a258455","filename":"pixel-buds-2-g.jpg","path":"https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/21ac8e100e7f00f2dfd799e80de654700a600e2c/hub/2024/08/13/8281b7ff-670a-4e6e-9924-5c0f2a258455/pixel-buds-2-g.jpg?auto=webp&height=500","dateCreated":{"date":"2024-08-13 20:58:38.000000","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"size":"","float":"","lightbox":false,"imageUrl":"https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/21ac8e100e7f00f2dfd799e80de654700a600e2c/hub/2024/08/13/8281b7ff-670a-4e6e-9924-5c0f2a258455/pixel-buds-2-g.jpg?auto=webp&height=500","imageCaption":"","imageCredit":"CNET","imageAltText":"Two pairs of Pink Pixel Buds 2 in the colors Wintergreen and Peony rest on a white background. ","imageFilename":"pixel-buds-2-g.jpg","imageWidth":1920,"imageHeight":1080,"imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageDateCreated":"2024-08-13","imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}” usepricing=”false” ng-block=”{"id":"18kwezq2k3oy9qs","type":"cross-content-listicle"}” edition=”us” data-key=”cross_content_listicle__f9f76126-918a-440f-8f27-7f21feedf6f4″ contenttype=”Best List – Precap” pagelayout=”Default – Article Page” tagslugs=”gap-project,hv45,freelance-update,samsung,samsung-galaxy” isbestlistredesign=”true” imagecredit imagealttext=”Two pairs of Pink Pixel Buds 2 in the colors Wintergreen and Peony rest on a white background. ” class=”c-bestListListicle”>
8.6
Photo Gallery1/1
Google’s redesigned its Pixel Buds Pro 2 to fit more ears better. Not only are the Pixel Buds Pro 2 smaller than their predecessor but Google’s equipped them with its new Tensor A1 chip, which offers more processing power and enables its new “hands-free, eyes-free” Gemini virtual AI assistant. So long as you get a snug fit and tight seal (yes, that’s critical for sound quality and noise-canceling performance), these buds deliver excellent sound, strong noise-muffling capabilities and a robust feature set, particularly for Android and Google Pixel phone users.
CNET Score Breakdown
8.6 /10
<div content="X – LIST ITEM" superlative="Best Bose noise-canceling headphones" description="
While Bose’s new flagship QuietComfort Ultra Headphones may not be a huge upgrade over the company’s Noise Cancelling 700 headphones, they feature a more premium design along with Bose’s new Immersive Audio feature, which delivers some sound-quality enhancements. Along with excellent sound and great noise canceling, the QC Ultra Headphones are also superb for making calls, with top-notch background noise reduction. A worthy adversary to Sony’s highly rated WH-1000XM5 and Apple’s AirPods Max, we called them the best new noise-canceling headphones of 2023, and they remain a top noise-canceling headphones pick in 2024.
The headphones go into a sleep mode when you take them off your head.
” imagegroup=”{"uuid":"824fc608-c1d1-410b-ba26-68de63538e36","alt":"The Bose QuietComfort Headphones in White Smoke on a blue background. ","caption":"
The headphones go into a sleep mode when you take them off your head.
The headphones go into a sleep mode when you take them off your head.
","imageCredit":"David Carnoy/CNET","imageAltText":"The Bose QuietComfort Headphones in White Smoke on a blue background. ","imageFilename":"bose-quietcomfort-ultra-headphones-blue-background-2.jpg","imageWidth":3776,"imageHeight":2124,"imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageDateCreated":"2023-10-17","imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}” usepricing=”true” ng-block=”{"id":"akan6zj7i8ji8rf","type":"cross-content-listicle"}” edition=”us” data-key=”cross_content_listicle__272c3f26-7525-4d89-b1ff-1a3df133a327″ contenttype=”Best List – Precap” pagelayout=”Default – Article Page” tagslugs=”gap-project,hv45,freelance-update,samsung,samsung-galaxy” isbestlistredesign=”true” imagecredit=”David Carnoy/CNET” imagealttext=”The Bose QuietComfort Headphones in White Smoke on a blue background. ” class=”c-bestListListicle”>
SCORE
9.2
9.2
Photo Gallery1/1
When Sony’s WF-1000XM4 earbuds came out in 2021, we awarded them a CNET Editors’ Choice. And while they’re excellent, we had some quibbles: They’re on the large side and aren’t a good match for certain ears. Clearly, Sony took those gripes to heart when it set out to design its next-generation WF-1000XM5 flagship noise-canceling earbuds. Not only are the XM5s smaller, but they also offer improved performance pretty much across the board, with better noise canceling, sound and voice calling. Are the XM5s perfect? Not quite. And at $300 — $20 more than their predecessor — they’re costly, too. But overall they’re really impressive, easily among the very top earbuds on the market.
CNET Score Breakdown
9.2 /10
<div content="X – LIST ITEM" superlative="Best Sennheiser noise-canceling headphones" description="
Sennheiser’s previous-generation Momentum Wireless headphones have always had a pretty distinct look that was part retro, part modern, and stood out for the exposed metal on their headband. For better or worse, that’s all gone now, and the new Momentum 4 Wireless, Sennheiser’s flagship noise-canceling headphones, look a bit more subdued and also a bit more like some of their competitors.
The Momentum 4 Wireless offers superior performance over the Momentum 3 Wireless in every regard, though the biggest gains are with noise canceling and voice-calling performance as well as battery life, which is outstanding — up to 60 hours at moderate volume levels. There’s also a transparency mode that allows ambient sound in, and they have the ability to create a custom sound profile in the Smart Control app for iOS and Android using the built-in EQ, sound modes and a new Sound Personalization feature that "assesses the user’s listening preferences and adjusts the listening experience according to their taste."
Equipped with 42mm drivers, Sennheiser says the Momentum 4 Wireless offer "best-in-class" sound, which is debatable. I’d say the Momentum 4’s sound quality is right there with other models in this price range — they sound excellent, with the requisite well-defined, punchy bass, relatively wide soundstage (they sound pretty open) and smooth treble that brings out some of the finer details in well-recorded tracks. They’re a pleasure to listen to.
” page-position linktext=”Read our Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless first look” linkurl=”https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/sennheiser-momentum-4-wireless-headphones-are-built-to-take-on-sony/” like=”~ Excellent sound ~ Improved noise canceling and voice-calling performance ~ Impressive battery life ~ Good sound personalization features” dislike=”~ Ho-hum design ~ Noise-canceling isn’t as good as Sony’s or Bose’s” additional-author additional-date additional-time can-collapse=”true” can-truncate=”true” truncate-on-page-load=”true” offer=”{"id":"9a83d82f-cc9f-4ceb-b113-00530c0db0c5","label":"Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones, Bluetooth for Crystal-Clear Calls w/Adaptive Noise Cancellation, 60h Battery Life, Customizable Sound & Lightweight Folding Design, Graphite","slug":"sennheiser-momentum-4-wireless-headphones-bluetooth-for-crystal-clear-calls-w-adaptive-noise-cancellation-60h","edition":["us"],"imageId":"","imgUrl":"","imageHeight":0,"imageWidth":0,"typeLabel":"Series","objectType":"content_product_series","icon":""}” techobjectinfo=”{"uuid":"9a83d82f-cc9f-4ceb-b113-00530c0db0c5","slug":"sennheiser-momentum-4-wireless-headphones-bluetooth-for-crystal-clear-calls-w-adaptive-noise-cancellation-60h","name":"Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones, Bluetooth for Crystal-Clear Calls w/Adaptive Noise Cancellation, 60h Battery Life, Customizable Sound & Lightweight Folding Design, Graphite","productType":"SERIES","updateType":"EZMONEY","mod":1739472020518}” overridecredit=”Sennheiser” overridecaption=”” imagegroup=”{"uuid":"ff5be1ca-b102-485c-8eb9-4ad229bd3dea","alt":"The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless in black on a yellow background. ","caption":"","credits":"Sennheiser","imageData":{"id":"ff5be1ca-b102-485c-8eb9-4ad229bd3dea","filename":"sennheiser-momentum-4-wireless-yellow-background.png","path":"https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/37d3e2a073b8599e9f76fb3339433cfe5790ce91/hub/2022/08/19/ff5be1ca-b102-485c-8eb9-4ad229bd3dea/sennheiser-momentum-4-wireless-yellow-background.png?auto=webp&format=pjpg&height=500","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-08-19 16:36:28.000000","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"size":"","float":"","lightbox":false,"imageUrl":"https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/37d3e2a073b8599e9f76fb3339433cfe5790ce91/hub/2022/08/19/ff5be1ca-b102-485c-8eb9-4ad229bd3dea/sennheiser-momentum-4-wireless-yellow-background.png?auto=webp&format=pjpg&height=500","imageCaption":"","imageCredit":"Sennheiser","imageAltText":"The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless in black on a yellow background. ","imageFilename":"sennheiser-momentum-4-wireless-yellow-background.png","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageDateCreated":"2022-08-19","imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}” usepricing=”false” ng-block=”{"id":"l9zkz40evcczl4s","type":"cross-content-listicle"}” edition=”us” data-key=”cross_content_listicle__b5e07173-130c-4363-a32f-260aa8a119d5″ contenttype=”Best List – Precap” pagelayout=”Default – Article Page” tagslugs=”gap-project,hv45,freelance-update,samsung,samsung-galaxy” isbestlistredesign=”true” imagecredit=”Sennheiser” imagealttext=”The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless in black on a yellow background. ” class=”c-bestListListicle”>
SCORE
8.4
Photo Gallery1/1
The W830NB is the successor to Edifier’s popular W820NB Plus, one of the better value noise-canceling headphones of the last few years. The W830NB looks slightly more premium than its predecessor, and the like that earlier model, is fairly lightweight (265 grams) and comfortable, with cushy memory-foam ear pads. They also sound very good for their price, offering decent clarity and fairly well-defined bass with an amply wide sound stage (they lack the refinement and depth of higher-end headphones, but you can’t expect the world from sub-$80 headphones). You can tweak the sound profile in Edifier’s companion app for iOS and Android.
The W830NB do have a few additional improvements over the W820NB Plus. First, you get Bluetooth 5.4 (instead of 5.2). Also, along with the LDAC and SBC audio codecs, the W830NB support the AAC audio codec. The noise canceling is a tad better (it’s decent but not up to the level of what you get with Bose and Sony headphones) and battery life is rated for up to an impressive 54 hours with noise canceling on, up from 49 hours. A couple of things are still missing, however. There’s no official carrying case or headphone jack, although you can connect them to your computer with a USB-C cable (a USB-C to USB-A cable is included but most computers and smartphones have USB-C now).
<div content="X – LIST ITEM" superlative="New Anker Open Wireless Earbuds " description="
Anker’s Soundcore AeroFit 2 open earbuds have been completely redesigned and look quite different from the original AeroFit buds, which also listed for $100. The second-gen Aerfit are not only more comfortable but look sleeker, sound significantly better and offer all-around improvements. The buds aren’t as light as the Shokz OpenFit 2 buds and don’t sound quite as good, but they cost quite a bit less and offer good all-around performance with augmented bass response. Available in multiple colors, they’re a good option for those looking for ear-hook style open earbuds with a fairly premium design and good sound quality without the high price tag of top-end models.
” page-position linktext linkurl like=”~Comfortable, secure fit ~Improved sound with more bass ~Good battery life ~Well-priced” dislike=”~A little heavier than Shokz models” additional-author=”930c8dec-8176-11e2-9d12-0018fe8a00b0″ additional-date=”2025-01-13″ additional-time=”13:50″ can-collapse=”false” can-truncate=”false” truncate-on-page-load=”false” offer=”{"id":"62598c0d-e322-47b1-8595-44d7a07d5e0b","label":"Soundcore AeroFit 2 by Anker, Open-Ear Headphones, Adjustable Ear Hooks, Snug Fit, Rich Bass, Hi-Res Wireless Audio, 42H Play, Bluetooth 5.4, Wireless Charging, IP55, AI Clear Calls, Open-Ear Earbuds","slug":"soundcore-aerofit-2-by-anker-open-ear-headphones-adjustable-ear-hooks-snug-fit-rich-bass-hi-res-wireless-audio-42h-play","edition":["us"],"imageId":"","imgUrl":"","imageHeight":0,"imageWidth":0,"typeLabel":"Series","objectType":"content_product_series","icon":""}” techobjectinfo=”{"uuid":"62598c0d-e322-47b1-8595-44d7a07d5e0b","slug":"soundcore-aerofit-2-by-anker-open-ear-headphones-adjustable-ear-hooks-snug-fit-rich-bass-hi-res-wireless-audio-42h-play","name":"Soundcore AeroFit 2 by Anker, Open-Ear Headphones, Adjustable Ear Hooks, Snug Fit, Rich Bass, Hi-Res Wireless Audio, 42H Play, Bluetooth 5.4, Wireless Charging, IP55, AI Clear Calls, Open-Ear Earbuds","productType":"SERIES","updateType":"PRISM","mod":1739472020532}” overridecredit=”David Carnoy/CNET” overridecaption imagegroup=”{"uuid":"7ffd5bac-81e4-434e-9bfa-3e45efb06fe9","alt":"White earbuds case","caption":null,"credits":"David Carnoy/CNET","imageData":{"id":"7ffd5bac-81e4-434e-9bfa-3e45efb06fe9","filename":"soundcore-by-abker-aerofit-2-white-1.jpg","path":"https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/bc5b9d69d763ca1bf0e9070a2345b1ee2ef8b6b0/hub/2025/01/14/7ffd5bac-81e4-434e-9bfa-3e45efb06fe9/soundcore-by-abker-aerofit-2-white-1.jpg?auto=webp&height=500","dateCreated":{"date":"2025-01-14 16:09:39.000000","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"size":"","float":"","lightbox":false,"imageUrl":"https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/bc5b9d69d763ca1bf0e9070a2345b1ee2ef8b6b0/hub/2025/01/14/7ffd5bac-81e4-434e-9bfa-3e45efb06fe9/soundcore-by-abker-aerofit-2-white-1.jpg?auto=webp&height=500","imageCaption":null,"imageCredit":"David Carnoy/CNET","imageAltText":"White earbuds case","imageFilename":"soundcore-by-abker-aerofit-2-white-1.jpg","imageWidth":5236,"imageHeight":2945,"imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageDateCreated":"2025-01-14","imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}” usepricing=”false” ng-block=”{"id":"ykygwzrceoucyuf","type":"cross-content-listicle"}” edition=”us” data-key=”cross_content_listicle__ca0e8c19-8118-4c7c-b722-4ce46731dc90″ contenttype=”Best List – Precap” pagelayout=”Default – Article Page” tagslugs=”gap-project,hv45,freelance-update,samsung,samsung-galaxy” isbestlistredesign=”true” imagecredit=”David Carnoy/CNET” imagealttext=”soundcore-by-abker-aerofit-2-white-1.jpg” class=”c-bestListListicle”>
<div content="X – LIST ITEM" superlative="Best Beats over-ear headphones" description="
Love ’em or hate ’em, Beats Studio headphones are among the most popular headphones of all time, launching as wired headphones back in 2008. This is the fourth generation of them, and they carry the same list price as their predecessor and look very similar on the outside but have some big changes on the inside that make them significantly better headphones. I’m tempted to describe them as more affordable plastic versions of the AirPods Max. However, that’s not quite accurate due to a choice in chipsets and one notable missing feature. But read our full review to find out what makes these very good headphones, albeit with some caveats.
” page-position linktext=”Read our Beats Studio Pro review” linkurl=”https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/beats-studio-pro-headphones-review/” like=”~ Improved sound quality, noise canceling and ear pad design
~ Very good voice-calling performance
~ Spatial audio with head tracking for Apple users
~ USB-C audio” dislike=”~ No Apple H2 chip
~ No ear-detection sensors
~ No major design changes except for case” additional-author additional-date additional-time can-collapse=”false” can-truncate=”false” truncate-on-page-load=”false” offer=”{"id":"7bbefe85-5292-48e4-8667-e1f416f14489","label":"Beats by Dr. Dre Over-the-Ear Headphones (Navy)","slug":"beats-by-dr-dre-over-the-ear-headphones-navy","edition":["us"],"imageId":"ebdb9fb1-b202-4fd4-889d-642278f1b0a4","imgUrl":"https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/7ed709381e8e1afeb1e944dd607de36268f268cc/hub/2023/07/20/ebdb9fb1-b202-4fd4-889d-642278f1b0a4/6501018-sd.jpg?auto=webp&width=300&height=300&fit=crop","imageHeight":0,"imageWidth":0,"typeLabel":"Product","objectType":"content_product","icon":""}” techobjectinfo=”{"uuid":"7bbefe85-5292-48e4-8667-e1f416f14489","slug":"beats-by-dr-dre-over-the-ear-headphones-navy","name":"Beats by Dr. Dre Over-the-Ear Headphones (Navy)","productType":"PRODUCT","updateType":"EZMONEY","mod":1739472020471}” overridecredit overridecaption=”” imagegroup=”{"uuid":"644a4559-df8a-4f12-b62f-1c1d93a6aac1","alt":"The Beats Studio Pro in Sandstone on a granite surface in front of the New York City skyline. ","caption":"","credits":"CNET","imageData":{"id":"644a4559-df8a-4f12-b62f-1c1d93a6aac1","filename":"beats-studio-pro-sandstone-2.jpg","path":"https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/6be16363b77914ea737814a12118627e11cc51f4/hub/2023/07/18/644a4559-df8a-4f12-b62f-1c1d93a6aac1/beats-studio-pro-sandstone-2.jpg?auto=webp&height=500","dateCreated":{"date":"2023-07-18 18:41:18.000000","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"size":"","float":"","lightbox":false,"imageUrl":"https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/6be16363b77914ea737814a12118627e11cc51f4/hub/2023/07/18/644a4559-df8a-4f12-b62f-1c1d93a6aac1/beats-studio-pro-sandstone-2.jpg?auto=webp&height=500","imageCaption":"","imageCredit":"CNET","imageAltText":"The Beats Studio Pro in Sandstone on a granite surface in front of the New York City skyline. ","imageFilename":"beats-studio-pro-sandstone-2.jpg","imageWidth":3809,"imageHeight":2143,"imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageDateCreated":"2023-07-18","imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}” usepricing=”false” ng-block=”{"id":"1f8uwxallvhz4bz","type":"cross-content-listicle"}” edition=”us” data-key=”cross_content_listicle__6924dcf4-44cc-4f09-a2ce-b2dee56e35df” contenttype=”Best List – Precap” pagelayout=”Default – Article Page” tagslugs=”gap-project,hv45,freelance-update,samsung,samsung-galaxy” isbestlistredesign=”true” imagecredit imagealttext=”The Beats Studio Pro in Sandstone on a granite surface in front of the New York City skyline. ” class=”c-bestListListicle”>
8.0
Photo Gallery1/1
Love ’em or hate ’em, Beats Studio headphones are among the most popular headphones of all time, launching as wired headphones back in 2008. This is the fourth generation of them, and they carry the same list price as their predecessor and look very similar on the outside but have some big changes on the inside that make them significantly better headphones. I’m tempted to describe them as more affordable plastic versions of the AirPods Max. However, that’s not quite accurate due to a choice in chipsets and one notable missing feature. But read our full review to find out what makes these very good headphones, albeit with some caveats.
CNET Score Breakdown
8.0 /10
<div content="X – LIST ITEM" superlative="Best Sennheiser noise-canceling headphones" description="
Sennheiser’s previous-generation Momentum Wireless headphones have always had a pretty distinct look that was part retro, part modern, and stood out for the exposed metal on their headband. For better or worse, that’s all gone now, and the new Momentum 4 Wireless, Sennheiser’s flagship noise-canceling headphones, look a bit more subdued and also a bit more like some of their competitors.
The Momentum 4 Wireless offers superior performance over the Momentum 3 Wireless in every regard, though the biggest gains are with noise canceling and voice-calling performance as well as battery life, which is outstanding — up to 60 hours at moderate volume levels. There’s also a transparency mode that allows ambient sound in, and they have the ability to create a custom sound profile in the Smart Control app for iOS and Android using the built-in EQ, sound modes and a new Sound Personalization feature that "assesses the user’s listening preferences and adjusts the listening experience according to their taste."
Equipped with 42mm drivers, Sennheiser says the Momentum 4 Wireless offer "best-in-class" sound, which is debatable. I’d say the Momentum 4’s sound quality is right there with other models in this price range — they sound excellent, with the requisite well-defined, punchy bass, relatively wide soundstage (they sound pretty open) and smooth treble that brings out some of the finer details in well-recorded tracks. They’re a pleasure to listen to.
” page-position linktext=”Read our Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless first look” linkurl=”https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/sennheiser-momentum-4-wireless-headphones-are-built-to-take-on-sony/” like=”~ Excellent sound
~ Improved noise canceling and voice-calling performance
~ Impressive battery life
~ Good sound personalization features” dislike=”~ Ho-hum design
~ Noise-canceling isn’t as good as Sony’s or Bose’s” additional-author additional-date additional-time can-collapse=”false” can-truncate=”false” truncate-on-page-load=”false” offer=”{"id":"9a83d82f-cc9f-4ceb-b113-00530c0db0c5","label":"Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones, Bluetooth for Crystal-Clear Calls w/Adaptive Noise Cancellation, 60h Battery Life, Customizable Sound & Lightweight Folding Design, Graphite","slug":"sennheiser-momentum-4-wireless-headphones-bluetooth-for-crystal-clear-calls-w-adaptive-noise-cancellation-60h","edition":["us"],"imageId":"","imgUrl":"","imageHeight":0,"imageWidth":0,"typeLabel":"Series","objectType":"content_product_series","icon":""}” techobjectinfo=”{"uuid":"9a83d82f-cc9f-4ceb-b113-00530c0db0c5","slug":"sennheiser-momentum-4-wireless-headphones-bluetooth-for-crystal-clear-calls-w-adaptive-noise-cancellation-60h","name":"Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones, Bluetooth for Crystal-Clear Calls w/Adaptive Noise Cancellation, 60h Battery Life, Customizable Sound & Lightweight Folding Design, Graphite","productType":"SERIES","updateType":"EZMONEY","mod":1739472020518}” overridecredit=”Sennheiser” overridecaption=”” imagegroup=”{"uuid":"ff5be1ca-b102-485c-8eb9-4ad229bd3dea","alt":"The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless in black on a yellow background. ","caption":"","credits":"Sennheiser","imageData":{"id":"ff5be1ca-b102-485c-8eb9-4ad229bd3dea","filename":"sennheiser-momentum-4-wireless-yellow-background.png","path":"https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/37d3e2a073b8599e9f76fb3339433cfe5790ce91/hub/2022/08/19/ff5be1ca-b102-485c-8eb9-4ad229bd3dea/sennheiser-momentum-4-wireless-yellow-background.png?auto=webp&format=pjpg&height=500","dateCreated":{"date":"2022-08-19 16:36:28.000000","timezone":"UTC","timezone_type":3},"primeColor":null,"hasWarning":false},"size":"","float":"","lightbox":false,"imageUrl":"https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/37d3e2a073b8599e9f76fb3339433cfe5790ce91/hub/2022/08/19/ff5be1ca-b102-485c-8eb9-4ad229bd3dea/sennheiser-momentum-4-wireless-yellow-background.png?auto=webp&format=pjpg&height=500","imageCaption":"","imageCredit":"Sennheiser","imageAltText":"The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless in black on a yellow background. ","imageFilename":"sennheiser-momentum-4-wireless-yellow-background.png","imageWidth":1600,"imageHeight":900,"imageDoNotCrop":false,"imageDoNotResize":false,"imageWatermark":false,"imageDateCreated":"2022-08-19","imageParallax":"","imageCrop":"","imageEnlarge":false}” usepricing=”false” ng-block=”{"id":"0hafmpa9p6jw33g","type":"cross-content-listicle"}” edition=”us” data-key=”cross_content_listicle__b5e07173-130c-4363-a32f-260aa8a119d5″ contenttype=”Best List – Precap” pagelayout=”Default – Article Page” tagslugs=”gap-project,hv45,freelance-update,samsung,samsung-galaxy” isbestlistredesign=”true” imagecredit=”Sennheiser” imagealttext=”The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless in black on a yellow background. ” class=”c-bestListListicle”>
8.4
Photo Gallery1/1
Sennheiser’s previous-generation Momentum Wireless headphones have always had a pretty distinct look that was part retro, part modern, and stood out for the exposed metal on their headband. For better or worse, that’s all gone now, and the new Momentum 4 Wireless, Sennheiser’s flagship noise-canceling headphones, look a bit more subdued and also a bit more like some of their competitors.
The Momentum 4 Wireless offers superior performance over the Momentum 3 Wireless in every regard, though the biggest gains are with noise canceling and voice-calling performance as well as battery life, which is outstanding — up to 60 hours at moderate volume levels. There’s also a transparency mode that allows ambient sound in, and they have the ability to create a custom sound profile in the Smart Control app for iOS and Android using the built-in EQ, sound modes and a new Sound Personalization feature that “assesses the user’s listening preferences and adjusts the listening experience according to their taste.”
Equipped with 42mm drivers, Sennheiser says the Momentum 4 Wireless offer “best-in-class” sound, which is debatable. I’d say the Momentum 4’s sound quality is right there with other models in this price range — they sound excellent, with the requisite well-defined, punchy bass, relatively wide soundstage (they sound pretty open) and smooth treble that brings out some of the finer details in well-recorded tracks. They’re a pleasure to listen to.
CNET Score Breakdown
8.4 /10
Watch this: Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Review: Best Galaxy Buds Yet
