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
This updated open-source app makes it easier to use AirPods with Android
You can now do more with AirPods wirelessly connected to Android devices, thanks to this clever app.
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Updated The best noise-cancelling earbuds block out the world without the bulk of over-ear headphones – here are our top recommendations based on in-house testing
EarFun Clip 2 review: the best cheap open earbuds I'd actually recommend
The Earfun Clip 2 are clip-on open earbuds that cost a fraction of the competition and pack in AI translation, Hi-Res audio and decent bass.
These open earbuds use reverse noise cancellation tech to stop sound leaks
The Honor Choice Earbuds Clip 2 Pro have anti-sound-leaking tech, to solve a major open earbud woe.
Activo Scoop review: cheap IEMs that don't skimp on quality
Astell & Kern's budget-brand, Activo, is back again — here's what I thought of it's new pebble-like in-ear monitors.
Shokz OpenFit Pro are a great-sounding contender for the open earbuds crown
As sports-specific open earbuds go, the Shokz OpenFit Pro are as good as it gets and their feature set means you'll nearly ditch anything else...
The best earbuds for small ears, all tested by a petite-eared audio expert
My pick of the best earbuds for those with a smaller ear canal, tragus or concha, however much you're able to spend.
The best wired earbuds, from cheap USB-C buds to audiophile monitors
Still craving a reliable connection, high-end audio, and no battery life anxiety? Here are the best wired earbuds you can buy today.
