Classic Wireless earbuds have become increasingly popular in recent years, allowing users to listen to music and take calls hands-free. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which model is right for you.
In this article, we will countdown the 10 best classic wireless earbuds available on Amazon in 2023. We evaluated earbuds based on sound quality, battery life, connectivity, comfort, and price to provide recommendations suited for a variety of needs and budgets.
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Introduction
Classic wireless earbuds, unlike fully wireless models, have a wire connecting the two earbuds. This design provides some advantages:
- Cost – Classic wireless earbuds tend to be more affordable than fully wireless options. The connected wire removes the need for separate left and right earbud components.
- Battery Life – The battery is stored in the inline control module on the wire, rather than in each earbud. This allows for longer battery life.
- Connectivity – The connection between the earbuds is guaranteed by the physical wire, reducing potential for connectivity issues.
Classic wireless earbuds deliver an excellent listening experience with fewer technological components to weigh down the price. Read on for our top picks available on Amazon.
The 10 Best Classic Wireless Earbuds on Amazon
1. Sony WF-1000XM4
Sound Quality: Immersive sound with rich bass
Battery Life: 12 hours (24 hours with charging case)
Key Features: Industry-leading noise cancellation, Bluetooth 5.2, speak-to-chat
Sony’s WF-1000XM4 tops our list, delivering elite active noise cancellation (ANC), audio quality, and smart features. The 6mm drivers output dynamic sound with punchy bass. Head tracking senses where you are to optimize audio. Speak-to-chat automatically pauses when you talk. This pair also boasts a 24-hour total battery life.
2. JLab Go Air Pop
Sound Quality: Balanced sound with punchy bass
Battery Life: 8 hours (32 hours with charging case)
Key Features: Extended connectivity, IPX4 sweat resistance, small and light
The JLab Go Air Pop stands out with its long 100-foot Bluetooth range, making connectivity issues a thing of the past. An over-ear hook design keeps these secure and comfortable. At just under $20, they make an impressive budget pick.
3. Technics EAH-AZ80
Sound Quality: Expressive audio with wide soundstage
Battery Life: 6.5 hours (22 hours with charging case)
Key Features: Superior LDAC codec, adjustable ambient mode, IPX4 water resistance
As a premium option from acclaimed audio brand Technics, the EAH-AZ80 delivers phenomenal hi-res sound. With a stylish design and comfortable fit, these are a versatile pair for indoor and outdoor use. The ambient mode lets you tune in surrounding sounds.
4. 1More PistonBuds Pro
Sound Quality: Warm, natural audio with passive noise isolation
Battery Life: 7 hours (28 hours with charging case)
Key Features: AptX and AAC support, stylish design, magnetic earbuds
1More adds its signature vibrant sound to these classic earbuds. Dual-driver technology separates bass and treble for clarity. The angled earpieces increase noise isolation. At around $60, they make a great value pick.
5. JLab JBuds Mini
Sound Quality: Clear mids and highs
Battery Life: 12 hours
Key Features: Extremely affordable, over-ear memory wire, IP55 sweat resistance
As one of the most budget-friendly pairs on our list, the JLab JBuds Mini impresses for under $20. The over-ear hooks provide a secure fit. A built-in mic enables phone calls. The 12-hour battery life outperforms many pricier models.
6. Sony WF-C700N
Sound Quality: Warm sound with punchy bass
Battery Life: 10 hours (20 hours with charging case)
Key Features: Digital noise cancellation, Ambient sound mode, sweat resistant
Another strong option from Sony, the WF-C700N offers effective noise cancellation at an affordable price. A design with no ear tips inserts securely into the ear. Vocals sound crisp, while bass packs a punch. The ambient mode amplifies voices around you.
7. Apple AirPods Pro 2
Sound Quality: Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking
Battery Life: 6 hours (30 hours with MagSafe charging case)
Key Features: Adaptive transparency, personalized spatial audio, sweat and water resistance
The AirPods Pro 2 are Appleās premium earbuds, tuned for iPhone users. The H2 chip enables immersive spatial audio that adapts as you move. Noise cancellation removes up to twice as much ambient sound as the original AirPods Pro. The wireless charging case provides extra battery life.
8. Earfun Air Pro 3
Sound Quality: Clear highs, full lows, and natural midrange
Battery Life: 9 hours (35 hours with charging case)
Key Features: Bluetooth 5.3, multipoint connection, noise cancellation, splashproof
As a budget-friendly option, the Earfun Air Pro 3 packs an impressive set of features. It utilizes the latest Qualcomm chip for Bluetooth 5.3 and support for LE Audio. Multipoint connection allows pairing with two devices simultaneously. The noise cancellation helps block ambient sound.
9. KEF Mu3
Sound Quality: Spacious soundstage with rich detail
Battery Life: 9 hours (36 hours with charging case)
Key Features: Custom-tuned drivers, ambient mode, adaptive noise cancellation
KEF is renowned for high-fidelity audio, and that pedigree shows in the Mu3. The 10mm drivers deliver exceptional clarity across the frequency range. Noise cancellation uses smart ambient listening to optimize settings. An IPX5 rating makes these sweat and splash resistant.
10. Skullcandy Dime 2
Sound Quality: Bold sound with punchy bass
Battery Life: 12 hours
Key Features: Extremely affordable, IPX4 sweat and water resistance, call/track/volume control
Skullcandy adds bold bass you can feel to the Dime 2 earbuds. The over-ear design provides a secure fit for active use. On-bud controls make it easy to manage music and calls. At around $20, these are highly impressive for the ultra-low price.
Buying Considerations for Classic Wireless Earbuds
There are a few key factors to keep in mind when selecting classic wireless earbuds:
- Sound Quality – Consider the sound profile that matches your preferences, whether that’s booming bass, crisp highs, big soundstage, etc. Many higher-end options allow you to customize the EQ as well.
- Battery Life – Battery life varies widely from around 5 to over 12 hours on a single charge. Cases can provide 15-30 additional hours. Plan based on your typical listening time.
- Comfort – Look for an ergonomic design that fits your ear shape. Ear tips come in multiple sizes. Over-ear hooks provide added security.
- Durability – For fitness and outdoor use, opt for water, sweat, and dust resistance ratings like IPX4 or IPX5. These can endure tougher conditions.
- Noise Cancellation – To block ambient sound, active noise cancellation uses microphones to counter it. Passive noise isolation physically blocks sound entering the ear canal.
- Bluetooth Version – Bluetooth 5.0 or higher provides solid connectivity. Some support advanced codecs like AptX for higher audio quality.
- Budget – Consider how much you want to spend. Our picks range from under $20 to around $200 or more.
FAQ
Q: Why choose classic wireless earbuds over fully wireless?
A: Classic wireless earbuds tend to be more affordable, offer longer battery life, and have more reliable connectivity between earbuds. The wire prevents losing an earbud and provides a place to attach control modules or mics. They make a great choice if you don’t want to pay extra for fully wireless.
Q: How do I get the best fit from wireless earbuds?
A: Start with the included eartips, trying all sizes to see which seals comfortably in your ear canal. If none of the sizes work, look for third party eartip replacements designed for your earbud model. Over-ear hooks and fins can also improve fit and security. Getting a proper fit is key for both sound quality and comfort.
Q: How do I clean earwax from wireless earbud eartips?
A: Use a dry cotton swab to gently wipe away any visible earwax around the eartips. Avoid inserting the swab into the eartip opening. You can rinse silicone eartips with warm water and mild soap, letting them air dry before reattaching. Replace eartips every few months, especially if they get damaged or compacted with earwax buildup.
Q: Can I go swimming with wireless earbuds?
A: Most wireless earbuds are not fully waterproof. Check the IP rating before use – earbuds rated IPX7 can withstand submersion up to 3 feet for 30 minutes. Anything less than IPX7 should be kept away from the water. Even with an IPX7 rating, it’s best not to wear earbuds when swimming for extended periods.
Q: How do I update the firmware on wireless earbuds?
A: Download the companion app for your earbuds, available for iOS and Android. Open the app with your earbuds nearby and connected. The app should automatically check for and install any available firmware updates for your earbuds. Follow the on-screen prompts. Keep the earbuds charged and near your smartphone during the update process.
Conclusion
Listening to music and taking calls wirelessly has never been easier with classic wireless earbuds. With top picks from Sony, Apple, JLab, and other brands, you can enjoy premium sound in a comfortable and convenient package. Consider your priorities for sound, battery life, and budget, then select the best model to suit your personal needs. Whatever classic wireless earbuds you choose, they will provide audio freedom whether working out or tuning in at home.