As technology improves, more and more of our favorite devices are becoming fully wireless. A short while ago wireless earbuds suffered from a number of drawbacks, but major steps forward in connectivity, battery life, and sound quality have allowed millions of users to “cut the cord” and enjoy the freedom and comfort of true wireless earbuds.
Wireless earbuds aren’t just for runners or early technology adapters anymore.
They’re the solution for anyone tired of dealing with tangled cords, broken headphone plugs, and bulky over-ear setups of yesterday.
We’ve done our homework and hunted down some of the very best “true” wireless earbud choices of 2019 for you.
Before we jump into our top picks, what exactly does “true” wireless mean?
Wireless earbuds come in two varieties. Some models are just wireless from your source device, but still have both sides connected by a cable or neck band. “True” wireless earbuds have nothing connecting the two sides and therefore provide the ultimate in convenience and “wearability”.
After exhaustive research, here are our top choices.
Sony WF-1000XM3
All-around excellent, with noise cancelling technology.
The current gold standard for all-around use true wireless earbuds. They’ve won numerous accolades and have really set the bar high for the competition with style, build quality, and functionality.
Pros : Outstanding musical sound quality that rivals that of significantly more expensive “hi-fi” brands, active noise-cancelling technology, attractive yet subtle design, a comfortable fit, and excellent battery life.
Cons : They’re not waterproof or specifically designed for sporting activities, and there’s no volume control on the buds themselves.
Jabra Elite 75t
Newest model, small size with long battery life.
New for the end of 2019 are the sequel to the highly successful Jabra Elite 65t. The previous model was praised for being excellent all-arounders that manage to do everything well, and many consumers preferred them over Apple Airpods. The new model features a smaller size and increased battery life.
Pros : Great balanced sound and high build quality, long battery life, water-resistant, and small size.
Cons : Not a bass heavy earbud (although this might be a pro for some buyers) .
Apple AirPods2
The iconic AirPods have been ugpraded.
One of the top-selling earbuds has been the Apple AirPods, and with good reason. They’re lightweight, small, easy to use, and stylish. The new second generation of AirPods feature numerous improvements including the ability to use “Hey Siri” and your wireless charging mat.
Pros : Very lightweight and small size, wireless charging, long battery life, and very easy to pair with your favorite Apple devices.
Cons : Not much of an upgrade to the sound quality over previous generation, and no noise cancellation technology.
Beats PowerBeats Pro
Sportier AirPods with longer battery life.
You might not have known this, but Beats earbuds are made by the same company as the Airpods. The PowerBeats Pro feature the same great build quality and internal chipset as the AirPods, but with a sportier design, improved sound quality, and longer battery life that’s great for active lifestyles.
Pros : Great overall quality and a very comfortable design that stays in the ear even during intense physical activities, improved sound and battery life over AirPods.
Cons : Large charging case might be a drawback for some users, more expensive than AirPods .
Jaybird Vista
Perfect for runners and active lifestyles.
Jaybird’s previous models did not make a big impact in the world of earbuds, but their newest Vista model has changed all that. They function well as an all-around earbud, but really shine for active lifestyles including runners and athletes.
Pros : Lightweight comfortable fit that stays put during physical activity, fast charging, strong bass, and full IPX7 water and sweat proof.
Cons : Not quite the “audiophile” sound quality of other more expensive choices.
Cambridge Audio Melomania 1
Audio experts enter the earbud market.
Cambridge Audio are well known for their audio equipment, and now they’ve made a big impact in the earbuds industry with their Melomania 1 offering. Featuring excellent sound quality, long battery life, and outperforming many of their rivals at a moderate price.
Pros : Impressive and detailed hi-fi sound quality, extra long battery life, high build quality, and lightweight.
Cons : Might take a little practice to get them “snug” just right.
Need More Options?
Other noteworthy earbuds you might want to audition would be the RHA TrueConnect as another good all-arounder, Sennheiser Momentum or Klipsch T5 for audio enthusiasts, or the EarFun Free and 1More Stylish for budget-conscious shoppers.