Earbuds go by many different names, including earphones, in-ear headphones, in-ear monitors or simply buds. They also come in all shapes and sizes and can be both wired or wireless, with some variations. Probably the most widely known (and worn) earbuds are the AirPods, which Apple launched in 2016.
Compared to over-ear and on-ear headphones, they offer a more compact, lightweight design that’s easier to set up and store. Earbuds are often cheaper too (usually), and have better stability. Being small does have its disadvantages - namely with sound quality, which can’t match wired headphones - but every music lover should own at least one pair all the same.
Latest about Earbuds & Airpods
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Skullcandy's new ANC earbuds have sound by Bose, and look like Bose, but don't have Bose prices
True wireless earbuds with Bose sound, long battery life, low price, and a really cool case
Sennheiser launches AirPods-like open earbuds, and if they're as good as the rest of its Accentum headphones, they'll be a bargain
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They're good, others do better
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Updated These best noise-cancelling earbuds block out the world without the bulk of over-ear headphones.
I use the Apple AirPods Pro 2 every day and they’re down to a fantastic price at Amazon
The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are the perfect earphones for Apple users. They're down to an equally fantastic price at Amazon today.
The best wireless earbuds 2025
Our reviewers spent over 600 hours testing these earbuds, so here’s my verdict on the best wireless earbuds for iPhone, Android or anything else.
One of the best budget earbuds brands just launched two super-cheap noise cancelling buds, and some open earbuds with Hi-Res Audio
Incredibly affordable ANC, Spatial Audio and open-ear audio too
