19 Best Earbuds for Music, Calls & Workouts

Whether you’re zoning out with your favourite playlist, hustling through back-to-back Zoom calls, or crushing reps at the gym, the right pair of earbuds can be a total game-changer. But in a market flooded with noise (literally and figuratively), finding the perfect set that balances booming bass, crystal-clear calls, and sweat-proof reliability isn’t easy. That’s where we step in with a curated list of the 19 best earbuds that deliver on sound, comfort, and smarts, no matter how you move through the day.

Sony WF-1000XM5

Sony’s WF-1000XM5 earbuds represent a significant leap forward in the realm of true wireless audio. Building upon the success of the WF-1000XM4, these earbuds are notably smaller and more ergonomic, addressing previous concerns about fit. The XM5s deliver enhanced noise cancellation, superior sound quality, and improved voice call performance. While they carry a premium price tag of ₹24,990, their comprehensive feature set and exceptional performance justify the investment for audiophiles seeking top-tier earbuds.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C)

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C connectivity offer a refined experience for users entrenched in the Apple ecosystem. Retaining the excellent sound quality, active noise cancellation, and voice-calling capabilities of their predecessor, these earbuds introduce additional dust resistance and a new acoustic architecture supporting Lossless Audio with the Vision Pro. Priced around ₹17,999 during sales, they are a compelling choice for Apple users seeking high-quality earbuds with seamless device integration.

Skullcandy Method 360 ANC

At ₹9,999, Skullcandy’s Method 360 ANC earbuds, developed in partnership with Bose, bring premium audio features to a more accessible price point. These earbuds offer impressive sound quality, effective noise cancellation, and a comfortable fit. While they may lack the premium finish of higher-end models and come with a bulkier charging case, the Method 360 ANC earbuds stand out as a value-packed option for those seeking quality performance without breaking the bank.

Apple AirPods 4 with ANC

The Apple AirPods 4 introduce active noise cancellation to an open-ear design, catering to users who prefer earbuds without ear tips. Priced at ₹11,900, these earbuds offer improved sound quality and additional features over previous models. The innovative ANC implementation in an open design makes them a unique choice for users seeking comfort and situational awareness without sacrificing noise reduction capabilities.

Nothing Ear

The latest iteration of Nothing’s Ear earbuds maintains the brand’s signature transparent design while delivering notable improvements in sound quality, noise cancellation, and battery life. Priced at ₹11,999, these earbuds offer a compelling blend of style and performance. For budget-conscious consumers, the ₹7,999 Ear (a) variant provides similar features with a smaller charging case and different driver configuration, making it a versatile option for various preferences.

Beats Powerbeats Pro 2

The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds build upon their predecessors’ success by introducing a more refined design, enhanced ergonomics, and new features such as active noise cancellation and a built-in heart-rate sensor. Equipped with Apple’s H2 chip, these earbuds offer superior sound quality and secure fit, making them an excellent choice for fitness enthusiasts seeking high-performance audio gear.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds continue the brand’s legacy of delivering exceptional noise cancellation. With a comfortable fit, natural-sounding transparency mode, and the new ActiveSense feature, these earbuds adapt to your environment for an immersive listening experience. The addition of Immersive Audio enhances sound clarity, solidifying their position as a top choice for those prioritising noise cancellation and audio quality.

Beats Fit Pro

The Beats Fit Pro earbuds offer a compact alternative to the Powerbeats Pro, featuring a wingtip design for a secure fit. Incorporating Apple’s H1 chip, these earbuds provide active noise cancellation, spatial audio, and Adaptive EQ. Their lightweight design and robust feature set make them an appealing option for users seeking versatile earbuds suitable for both workouts and daily use.

Google Pixel Buds Pro 2

Google’s Pixel Buds Pro 2 earbuds are tailored for Android users, featuring a redesigned, smaller form factor for improved comfort. Powered by the new Tensor A1 chip, they offer enhanced processing capabilities, enabling features like hands-free Google Assistant access. With excellent sound quality, strong noise cancellation, and seamless integration with Android devices, these earbuds are a top pick for Google ecosystem enthusiasts.

JBL Live Beam 3

The JBL Live Beam 3 earbuds stand out with their unique 1.45-inch touchscreen LCD integrated into the charging case, allowing users to control features directly. Equipped with 10mm drivers, they deliver clear sound with punchy bass, effective noise cancellation, and solid voice-calling performance. With up to 10 hours of battery life (ANC on) and an IP55 splash-proof rating, they offer a compelling package for users seeking innovation and reliability.

Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4

Sennheiser’s Momentum True Wireless 4 earbuds continue the brand’s tradition of delivering exceptional sound quality. While improvements over the previous generation are modest, enhancements in noise cancellation and Bluetooth connectivity contribute to a refined listening experience. These earbuds are ideal for audiophiles seeking premium sound performance in a true wireless form factor.

Bowers & Wilkins Pi8

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 earbuds offer outstanding sound quality, benefiting from a redesigned form factor that improves upon previous models. While they come at a higher price point, their superior audio performance and the unique feature of transforming the charging case into a Bluetooth transceiver make them a standout choice for discerning listeners seeking both functionality and luxury.

Bose Ultra Open Earbuds

Bose’s Ultra Open Earbuds feature an unconventional design that clips onto the side of the ears, providing an open-ear listening experience. Despite their atypical appearance, they offer surprisingly good sound quality and a secure, comfortable fit. Priced at ₹26,500, they cater to users looking for innovative design and situational awareness without compromising on audio performance.

Sony LinkBuds Fit

Sony’s LinkBuds Fit earbuds prioritise comfort and secure fit with their lightweight design and Air Fitting Supporters. While they may not match the flagship WF-1000XM5 in sound quality or noise cancellation, they offer a well-rounded performance with good audio quality, effective noise cancellation, and built-in voice controls, making them a practical choice for everyday use.

Sony WF-C700N

The Sony WF-C700N earbuds strike a balance between affordability and performance. Offering adaptive sound control, noise cancellation, and Sony’s DSEE technology for audio enhancement, they deliver superb clarity and a punchy low end at a fraction of the flagship’s price. Lightweight and ergonomically designed, they’re ideal for long listening sessions. Priced around ₹8,990, these are a strong recommendation for anyone looking for Sony-grade sound without the premium cost.

CMF Buds Pro 2

The CMF Buds Pro 2, from Nothing’s value-driven CMF sub-brand, shakes up the budget earbud market. Featuring a unique rotating crown on the case for volume and media control, dual drivers for a more layered audio experience, and active noise cancellation up to 50 dB, these buds punch way above their price. With Bluetooth 5.3, ultra-low latency, and a claimed 43-hour battery life (with case), they’re a tech-lover’s dream under ₹3,000 in India. Whether you’re a student or an audiophile on a budget, the CMF Buds Pro 2 offers more than just affordability, they deliver real innovation.

OnePlus Buds 3

OnePlus continues its strong run in the audio space with the Buds 3. Offering Hi-Res Audio support via LHDC 5.0, 49 dB of adaptive noise cancellation, and a dual driver setup (10.4mm + 6mm), the Buds 3 combine crisp treble with punchy bass. The IP55 rating, intuitive touch controls, and seamless OnePlus ecosystem integration make them ideal for Android loyalists. At ₹5,499, they’re easily among the best mid-range ANC earbuds in 2025, rivalling even pricier competitors in day-to-day performance.

OnePlus Buds Pro 3

For users wanting flagship features without Apple or Sony prices, the OnePlus Buds Pro 3 offer a refined design, triple-mic AI noise cancellation, ultra-low latency gaming mode, and spatial audio support. The dual driver system (co-created with Dynaudio) delivers precise imaging and deep bass. With Bluetooth 5.4, LHDC 5.0, and adaptive ANC, these buds can hold their own against any premium TWS. The stylish finish, wireless charging, and Google Fast Pair make it a complete package for Android users craving flagship-grade earbuds under ₹10,000.

Bose Noise Master Buds

Bose’s latest entrant, the Noise Master Buds, blends the brand’s renowned ANC capabilities with a bold new design, featuring a multi-tone matte finish and IPX5 water resistance. The soundstage is expansive, vocals are crystal-clear, and the lows hit hard without muddying the mids. What sets these apart is Bose’s proprietary DynamicSound™ engine, which adapts in real-time based on your environment. With 9 hours of standalone playback and an additional 27 via the case, plus multipoint Bluetooth pairing, these are tailor-made for serious listeners who want noise cancellation that just works—anywhere, anytime.

Which One’s for You?

The earbud market in 2025 is more crowded and exciting than ever. Whether you’re hunting for a budget buy like the CMF Buds Pro 2, a mid-range gem like the OnePlus Buds 3, or a premium powerhouse like the Sony WF-1000XM5 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra, there’s truly something for everyone.

If you’re entrenched in Apple’s ecosystem, the AirPods Pro 2 or Beats Fit Pro will feel like a second skin. Android enthusiasts can turn to the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 or the OnePlus Buds Pro 3 for seamless functionality. For fitness fans, the Powerbeats Pro 2 and JBL Live Beam 3 offer form, function, and flare. And for pure, uncompromising audio bliss, Bowers & Wilkins, Sennheiser, and Sony continue to set the gold standard.