While the Apple AirPods (and especially the AirPods Pro) are hugely popular, they’re not the only excellent true wireless earbuds out there.
Whether you’re using Android, prefer richer sound, or want features that Apple doesn’t emphasize, there are fantastic AirPods alternatives that deliver great value, best-in-class features, and compatibility across platforms.
In this article we’ll:
- Go over what you should look for when choosing wireless earbuds (so you know how to compare)
- Highlight some of the best alternatives to AirPods in 2025 (for various budgets and priorities)
- Offer final thoughts and buying tips
What to Look for in High-Quality True Wireless Earbuds
Before diving into the alternatives, it’s helpful to know the key criteria you should use. Here are features to focus on:
Fit, Comfort & Stability
A poor fit ruins the listening experience. According to one buyer guide:
“Ear tip options, ear-hook/wing designs, ergonomic weight distribution… matter especially for extended wear or workouts.” Make sure the earbuds come with multiple sizes of tips, and ideally a secure (but comfortable) fit.
Battery Life & Charging Case
It’s not just about how many hours the buds themselves last — the charging case adds extra hours too. Good wireless earbuds nowadays often deliver 5–10 hours on a charge, plus an additional 20-30+ hours via the case.
Fast charging or wireless charging are nice bonuses.
Sound Quality & Codec Support
If you care about audio quality, pay attention to:
- Driver size & design
- Codec support (e.g., aptX, LDAC) — important for Android users especially.
- Clarity of vocals and balance of bass/mids/highs.
Features: Noise-Cancelling, Transparency, Controls
If you commute, travel, or sit in noisy places: active noise cancellation (ANC) or strong passive isolation matter. Also good to have: ambient/transparency mode, customisable app controls, multipoint pairing.
Durability & Connectivity
If you’ll use them in workouts or outdoors, look for water/sweat resistance (IP ratings), stable Bluetooth version (5.x or above) and good connectivity.
Compatibility & Ecosystem
If you’re not locked into Apple’s ecosystem, it might make sense to look at earbuds which offer cross-platform features (Android + iOS) or extra codecs. That’s a big reason people look for AirPods alternatives.
Top AirPods Alternatives in 2025
Here are some of the best true wireless earbuds you can pick instead of AirPods—covering high-end and value tiers. (Note: I’ll reference them generically; you may want to check local availability and pricing.)
1. Sony WF-1000XM5
Why consider them: One of the most feature-rich wireless earbuds on the market. Sony offers superb ANC, strong sound tuning, and wide compatibility (Android + iOS).
Highlight features: Excellent noise cancellation, rich and balanced sound, comfort for extended wear.
Best for: Those who want premium features, music lovers who want more than “just okay” sound, and Android users especially.
Potential drawbacks: Price will be higher; the stem design may be a personal taste.
2. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
Why consider them: Bose has long been a leader in noise-cancelling audio. If your priority is blocking out external noise and immersive listening, these shine.
Highlight features: Class-leading ANC, immersive sound, comfort over longer sessions.
Best for: Frequent travelers, noisy environments (commute, open office), audio purists who want comfort + quiet.
Potential drawbacks: May lean more toward ANC than hi-res audio codecs; price again tends to be premium.
3. Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4
Why consider them: Very strong sound quality, appealing to audiophiles. If you care more about fidelity than ecosystem tie-ins, this is a top pick.
Highlight features: Detailed sound, good build, reasonably strong feature set.
Best for: Music lovers, those who spend time evaluating sound (genre, detail, instrumentals).
Potential drawbacks: ANC might not be quite as powerful as some rivals; may cost more for the premium sound.
4. Jabra Elite 10
Why consider them: Balanced performance: good sound, good features, very decent for calls and general use.
Highlight features: Strong call quality, multipoint device pairing, good fit + features.
Best for: Mixed use (calls + music), professionals who want reliable performance across tasks.
Potential drawbacks: Maybe not the absolute top in ANC or codec support compared with some ultra premium models.
5. Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro
Why consider them: Optimised for Android/Samsung ecosystems, offering cutting-edge sound features and tight integration for Samsung phone users.
Highlight features: 24-bit Hi-Fi audio (on compatible devices), solid fit, good sound and ANC.
Best for: Android users (especially Samsung phones) who want best integration plus great sound.
Potential drawbacks: Some features may be locked to Samsung device ecosystem; battery life may be slightly less than some rivals.
How to Decide Which One is Right for You
Here are some practical questions and tips to help you narrow your choice:
- What is your budget? Premium models cost more; there are also many good value options if you’re willing to compromise on one or two features.
- What do you use them for most? Travel/commute? Focus on ANC + comfort. Work/travel calls? Focus on mic quality + fit + noise isolation. Music-first? Look for codec support + driver quality.
- What ecosystem are you in? If you use Apple devices primarily, AirPods or those well integrated with Apple may make sense. If Android, you have more flexibility and may get better codec support.
- Fit and comfort matter. If possible, try them on (or ensure easy returns) — even premium earbuds can disappoint if they don’t fit your ears comfortably.
- Future proofing: Consider features like multipoint pairing, strong codec support, firmware updates, good durability/water resistance.
- Return policy + warranty: Especially when buying overseas or import, check support, warranty and ease of servicing. Reddit users often stress this.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a strong alternative to AirPods—without being locked into one ecosystem, or just wanting more in terms of sound, features or cross-platform compatibility—the models above are excellent.
- For all-round premium, go with Sony WF-1000XM5.
- For best ANC + comfort, Bose QuietComfort Ultra is top tier.
- For sound quality at its best, Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4.
- For balanced work/music use, Jabra Elite 10.
- For Android/Samsung users, Galaxy Buds2 Pro.
When you pick, match the pair to your lifestyle (travel, workouts, calls, music), your device ecosystem (Android vs iOS) and your budget. Choose a model that fits your ears well, has the features you’ll actually use, and gives great value.