The right earphones can make all of your music sound its absolute best and with the advancements in technology, they can do so much more. But choosing the best headphones for your needs can be a bit challenging with all the options out there, in all different price ranges.

So we’ve taken a closer look at what you should look for when searching out the best earphones in 2022 and also provide you with what our top choices are, so you can have a better idea when you go shopping.

We look at the best in-ear earphones and the best wireless earphones or designers in 2022, including the best earbuds for iPhone, and in all budget ranges.

See here for our post on the best noise-canceling earphones.

 

Also see our list of the best noise-canceling head-phones. or the best budget noise-canceling head-phones.

15 Best Earphones for Music Lovers in 2022 Compared

 

Types of earphones/earbuds

When you first head online or to the store, it can be a little bit overwhelming seeing the different options out there for the first time. To give you a primer of sorts, we thought it would be a good idea to highlight each of the different types out there to make them easier to spot as well and easier to choose. 

In-Ear Earphones

Also known as earbuds, are typically found in two different variations, ones that sit on the ear while the earphones rest comfortably in the ear, and those that are pushed into the ear. Regardless of the design you choose, both can have issues. The first can become painful especially if they don’t fit right in your ear cavity or if it puts too much pressure on your ear itself.

The second kind can get to be uncomfortable if the earbud doesn’t fit right and can fall out if it’s too big or small. Many people tend to prefer the second kind because of its noise-canceling design but noise-canceling earbuds can be dangerous if you tend to wear them while you are commuting. You want to make sure that while you can hear what you are listening to in high-quality audio, you can still hear some sound outside to stay safe.

On-Ear Earphones / Headphones

Commonly called headphones because of the headband, on-ear earphones are available in two different options, either pressed against your ear or over-ear headphones that enclose the ear. While the ones pressed against your head are typically more lightweight than the over-ear variety, they are relatively cheaper as well. Over-ear headphones can be either light or heavy-weighted so you may want to try them on if you can before buying them to determine if the weight is right for you so it doesn’t cause any neck strain while you’re using them.

Wireless earphones

Many different styles of earphones are available with the option to be used wirelessly but this option does tend to add more in terms of the price you will pay. For some, owning wireless headphones is the best option available, especially if you are using them with a portable device or tend to listen to music or other programs while exercising. While the convenience of not having wires is positive, some wireless headphones will end up providing lesser sound quality than what you may be looking for.

 

The Best Earphones for Artists, Creatives & Graphic Designers in 2022

1. Sony WH-1000XM4 (Editor’s Choice)

The best noise-canceling headphones overall

Acoustic design: Closed | Weight: 8.95 oz | Cable length: 3.94 ft | Frequency response: 4Hz to 40kHz | Drivers: 1.57-inch | Driver type: Dome-type | Sensitivity: 104.5 dB | Impedance: 47 ohm | Battery life: 30 hours | Wireless range: 30 meters (98ft) | NFC: Yes

The 1000XM3 wireless headphones from Sony have long been the best choice of noise-canceling headphones available until now. The 1000XM4, Sony’s newest release takes everything great about their previous model and added to it. Aesthetically, they look extremely similar but under the hood is where Sony has added some new bells and whistles. With multipoint pairing, DSEE Extreme upscaling, conversational awareness, plus an auto-play/pause feature using a sensor built into the headphones, they are the new best noise-canceling headphones on the block. The only downside? They aren’t water-resistant.

 

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2. Plantronics Backbeat PRO 2

The Best Budget Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Type: Over-ear, wireless | Battery life: Up to 24hrs | Weight: 0.63lbs

If you’re looking for headphones to help with your daily commute on the subway or bus, the top of the wish list is noise-cancellation to block out the sounds during rush hour while others may cite long battery life as the first thing they look for or an affordable price. For some, comfort is the number one criteria and with the Backbeat PRO 2 from Plantronics, all boxes are checked.

With a weight of just over half a pound, the PRO 2s can be worn for extended periods without discomfort and also have an impressive range of 330 feet which means you don’t have to be tied to your phone when you’re listening at work. What makes these a great deal for commuters is that the price can be much more affordable than some of the other options on our list, making them the best budget-friendly headphones..

 

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3. Apple AirPods Pro

Best earbuds for Apple fans

Acoustic design: Closed | Weight: 5.4g | Frequency response: 20-20,000Hz | Drivers: N/A | Driver type: Dynamic | Sensitivity: N/A | Impedance: N/A | Battery life (on-board): up to 5 hours | Battery life (charging case): 24 hours | Wireless range: N/A | NFC: Yes

While not as exciting as their latest release, the AirPods Pro certainly garner some excitement of their own. An improvement over the original AirPods, the Pro version comes with active noise cancelation, a better fit, and an improved design. The new design helps to keep the AirPods from falling out and the inclusion of additional microphones helps to provide a strong noise cancelation. Plus, the new auto-switching feature allows you to magically switch between devices which is helpful if you want to go from listening to Spotify on your iPhone.and then watch a movie on your iPad.

 

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4. Bose SoundSport Free

The best earbuds for reliable connectivity

Type: In-ear, true wireless | Weight: 14.2g | Battery life (continuous use): up to 5 hours | Battery life (stand-by): 5 days

For those who prefer the convenience that can come with wireless earphones. Even the best earphones can have connectivity issues, causing people to get frustrated easily and either struggle through the frustration or spend more money on another new pair. With the SoundSport Free from Bose, the innovative design and high-quality tech provide an amazingly reliable connection. With a minimalistic, in-ear design, the SoundSport Free earphones are built for everyday use from hanging around the house to a high-intensity workout.

While the SoundSport earphones offer you a great level of sound quality, the minimal design can provide a loose fit when in your ears causing you to adjust them frequently.

For some, this is a minor complaint and won’t keep them from purchasing the earphones, even though some other wireless earphones may offer better quality at a much cheaper price. These days, privacy and noise reduction while wearing earphones is a major feature that many consumers look for, and those who consider the SoundSport Free should consider other options.

The design of the earphones allows outside noise in keeping you from enjoying the tremendous sound quality that only a manufacturer such as Bose can provide. If you can look past their shortcomings, the Bose SoundSport Free could be the perfect earphones for you. You could also consider their wired, noise-canceling version: Bose QuietComfort 20 Headphones.

 

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5. Optoma NuForce BE Sport4

The best budget-friendly earbuds

Type: In-ear, wireless | Weight: 15 g | Frequency response: 20-20,000Hz | Driver type: 6mm | Sensitivity: 92dB +/-3dB at 1KHz | Impedance: 32Ohm | Battery life (on-board): up to 10 hours | Wireless range: 10m

With many earphones, finding ones that fit right can be a struggle. However, with the NuForce BE Sport4 earphones from Optoma with customized ear tips and are good to use in just about every situation. Made with a glossy black metal design, and lime green accent, the Sport4 earphones give off a look more commonly found on high-end earphones. The included fittings allow for a high degree of personalization, giving you the ability to tailor how the earphones fit in your ears.

At an incredibly lightweight 15 grams, they are light enough to feel like they aren’t there at all but at the same time, they are substantial enough to feel sturdy. A unique feature of the BE Sport4 is the magnetic ends on each earbud helping reduce the chances that you might lose them. A soft carry pouch helps keep them safe and secure when not in use and charges easily using a mini USB cable makes charging super easy.

 

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6. Apple Airpods Max

Best over-ear earphones

Acoustic design: Closed | Weight: 13.6 oz | Cable length: N/A | Frequency response: N/A | Drivers: 40mm | Driver type: Dynamic | Sensitivity: N/A | Impedance: N/A | Battery life: 20 hours | Wireless range: 30 meters (98ft) | NFC: Yes

Apple recently announced the Airpods Max, their first entry into the over-ear headphones market. Carefully crafted to provide each user with exceptional acoustic performance, the Airpods Max is designed to comfortably fit any user with its mesh canopy headband and balanced ear cup pressure, ensuring an optimal fit. Equipped with the H1 chip, which was designed by Apple, the Airpods Max uses computational audio to deliver the highest-quality listening experience available. While they are not budget-friendly by any means, the headphones provide an exceptional experience with its adaptive EQ, active noise cancelation, and transparency mode, Apple’s first offering will make a splash.

 

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7. Sony WF-1000XM3

The best noise-canceling earbuds

Type: In-ear, true wireless | Weight: 2.8 oz | Frequency response: 20-20,000Hz | Drivers: N/A | Driver type: 0.24″, dome type (CCAW Voice coil) | Sensitivity: N/A | Impedance: N/A | Battery life (on-board): up to 4-6 hours

Freedom perfected in a truly wireless design, with industry-leading noise-canceling powered by Sony’s proprietary HD Noise Canceling Processor QN1e. Form meets function with up to 24 total hours of battery life with quick charging, touchpad controls, premium sound quality, and smart features like Wearing Detection and Quick Attention Mode. The only downfall is its price.

 

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8. 1More Triple Driver In-Ear Headphone

The best wired earbuds with excellent sound quality

Type: In-ear, wired | Weight: 18g | Frequency response: 20-40,000Hz | Drivers: 3 | Sensitivity: 99 dB| Impedance: 32Ω | Wire Material: Enameled Copper Wire

A major misconception when it comes to earphones is that to get excellent sound quality, you have to spend a boatload of money. This isn’t the case when it comes to the Triple Driver In-Ear Headphones by 1More as their relatively affordable price can provide you with lush sound quality. The sleek and modern design is enhanced by the aluminum construction and rose gold color which is created by the combination of the color of gold mixed with copper. Angled design helps them fit into your ear nicely.

While the value of the Triple Driver Headphones is unmatched, like many other wired earphones, they do have some issues. As with many wired earphones, the rubber cable can get caught on itself and the plastic remote attached to the cord to control playback and volume can feel a bit cheap but for such high sound quality at an affordable price, it’s hard to not look past these minimal issues.

 

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9. RHA MA 390 Wireless

The best earbuds with a unique design

Type: In-ear, Neckband wireless | Weight: 24g | Frequency response: 16-22,000Hz | Battery life (on-board): up to 8 hours | NFC: No

While it’s becoming increasingly apparent that the future of earphones is a wireless one, however, that can present problems along with the convenience, such as battery life, wireless reliability, and the issue of not losing them which can be pretty easy. The design of the MA390 Wireless earphones, known as neck buds, can be a better alternative to wireless earphones, can provide longer battery life and in the case of these earphones, better quality and balanced sound that while they have a neutral tonality, the level of bass that the earphones put out leaves something to be desired.

The wireless connection of the earphones is excellent and doesn’t experience the dropouts that can be common among other wireless earphones. We never ran into an issue moving around the house and having the music cut out on us. The battery life gives you about seven hours of listening time which is much better than some other options on the market. While the overall design can take some getting used to and is not for everyone, you can’t go wrong with the MA390 Wireless earphones from RHA.

 

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10. Optoma NuForce BE Free5

The best earbuds for commuters

Type: In-ear, truly-wireless | Weight: 62g| Frequency response: 20-20,000Hz | Drivers: 2 | Driver type: 5.6mm | Battery life (on-board): up to 4 hours | Battery life (charging case): 16 hours | Wireless range: 10m

Getting the best sound quality from your earphones shouldn’t cost you more than your monthly utility bill. That’s why the NuForce BE Free5 from Optoma receives so much praise for not only their design but their affordable cost. A wireless earbud, the BE Free5 earbuds are one of the least expensive ways to get a truly wireless experience. While reminiscent of other offerings from Optoma, the Free5’s matte finish and textured plastic gives them a more grown-up feel. The inclusion of an LED in each earbud to let you know whether they’re connected, pairing, or low on power is a nice feature

The fit of the Free5 is very good in comparison to other in-ear earphones on the market. Once they are in, they can be very comfortable in your ear, without having to adjust them constantly as with some other earphones. The sound quality is among the top options at its price point, beating many of its competitors, and can be very efficient at drowning out ambient noise when listening to music.

The areas where the Free5 falters, however, is in the connection strength. Unfortunately, the signal can be dropped from time to time and can be very frustrating. However, with the sound quality and the undeniable value for a premium earphone that is truly wireless, the NuForce BE Free5 from Optoma is worth a look.

 

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11. Jabra Elite 65t True Wireless

The best wireless earbuds

Type: In-ear, true wireless | Weight: 10.9 ounces | Frequency response: 20-20,000Hz | Drivers: N/A | Driver type: Dynamic | Sensitivity: N/A | Impedance: N/A | Battery life (on-board): 5 hrs Battery life | (charging case): 15 hours

In the world of truly wireless earphones, the list typically starts with the AirPods from Apple and the next option on that list is the Elite 65t True Wireless earphones from Jabra. If it’s not, then it definitely should be. While Jabra probably won’t win any awards for the design of the 65t earphones, the overall appearance has a subtle and mature look and have the feeling of a premium product even though they are mainly made from plastic.

On the earbuds, perforations allow various microphones to pick up your voice while making calls but also to mix in outside sounds, which can be adjusted using Jabra’s app, available for both iOS and Android. The carrying case can be a bit cumbersome, itself also made from plastic while you make sure that the earbuds are positioned correctly to ensure the case closes the right way to keep them from falling out.

When removed from their carrying case, the Elite 65t earphones turn on automatically, which is a nice feature that not many other wireless earphones have; and also turn off when putting back in the case. The performance of the wireless connection is right up there with some of the best options on the market and rarely has issues. The sound quality is excellent as well, giving you a crisp listening experience no matter the song or podcast episode.

The battery life is 5 hours according to the manufacturer’s information. However, unless you’re blasting music at its highest level all the time, you should be able to get more than that. While the price point might keep some from trying the Elite 65t True Wireless earphones from Jabra, if you can, we cannot recommend them enough. You will be very satisfied.

 

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12. Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear

The best affordable, great-sounding earbuds

Type: In-ear, wireless | Weight: 5.4g | Frequency response: 15-22,000Hz | Drivers: 112dB

If you visit your local shopping center and head to the electronics section, you can easily find rows and rows of cheaply priced or even cheaply made earphones that many of us settle for because we either don’t know any better or can’t afford a better option. The Momentum In-Ear earphones from Sennheiser offer a high-quality option with the excellent sound quality for much less than you might think. Designed with a sporty look combining black and red earphones with a red audio cord that will make it look right at home whether being used at work or during a workout at the gym. Wire tangling is an ever-common issue with wired earphones, but the flat wires of the Momentum are designed to keep them less likely to get tangled.

If you’re used to using cheap sets of earphones to listen to music, then the sound quality that Momentum offers is going to sound incredible. This isn’t to say that they cannot provide quality sound, booming bass, and enjoyable experience which they most certainly do, even though the mids don’t provide much enjoyment, it is still a huge step up from the cheaper option. If you’re looking for an upgrade that while affordable, keeps you out of the bargain bin, you can’t go wrong with the Momentum In-Ear earphones from Sennheiser.

 

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13. JBL Tune 760NC

Best active noise-canceling headphones

The JBL Tune 760 NC can be a treat for music lovers. This headphone is compatible with devices such as iPhone, Android, Mac, PC, and iPad. Besides this, JBL Tune 760 NC is capable of producing powerful bass.

With this set of NC headphones, you can easily attend calls, and switch songs without using your hands. The 760 also has effective noise canceling that allows you to minimize all background noise if you choose to.

This headset is easily foldable and compact convenient for those on the go. So on the whole, these lightweight headphones give you a great music experience.

 

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14. Focal Sphear S

The best high quality, cost-effective earbuds

Type: Inner ear, wired  | Weight: 18.5 g | Frequency response: 20-40,000 Hz| Drivers: N/A | Sensitivity: 99 dB| Impedance: 32 Ω

Focal, a French company that is better known for creating loudspeakers that are of the highest quality, surprised consumers with their first foray into the earphones market. With the Focal Sphear S, while they may not topple any of the big boys just yet, their first entry into the in-ear niche is certainly getting attention with housings that while they are made from plastic, have a steel grille that gives them a more expensive feel. An understated design helps to keep the focus off how they look and push it more towards the performance of the earphones, which shines.

The mid-forward performance of the earphones offers a nice amount of energy in the highs for any number of instruments and won’t detract from the highs or the base either. While the bass could use more impact when it comes to songs in the electronic and rap genres, it has a good amount of extension, though can pale in comparison to some higher-priced options.

Compared to those other options, the sound quality of the Focal Sphear presents itself with a rich quality of sound even though they only offer an average amount of noise isolation. Overall, the Sphear from Focal is a quality offering from a brand just getting started in the earphones area.

 

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15. Treblab X5 

 

The best wireless earbuds for athletic creatives

The TREBLAB X5 headphones are all-around headphones with a budget-conscious price tag. They come with truly incredible HD sound, full noise cancellation, and Siri. These headphones are completely water-resistant and sweat-proof and you can enjoy your music for a playtime of up to 6 hours with + 4 additional charges with a charging case.

 

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16. xFyro Aria

The best waterproof earbuds

Designed by audio’s finest award-winning engineers, the xFyro ARIA waterproof wireless headphones bring next-generation technology to today’s active listener. Magnetically connect your earbuds to the battery case to enjoy a total listening time of 32 hours before having to recharge your case. Get 10% off with code ‘Jacob10’

 

17. xFyro ANC Pro

One of the most affordable premium earbuds

Type: Inner ear, Truly Wireless | Weight: 5g | Drivers: N/A | Driver type: Dynamic, 7 mm, graphene | Battery life (on-board): 8 hours without ANC, 10 hours with ANC | Battery life (charging case): Up to 90hrs | Wireless range: up to 10 meters

When it comes to noiseless earphones powered by AI, the Xyfro ANC Pro is a great option to choose. Although this premium pair of earphones have stiff competition, they have outstanding battery life and come with a game mode setting that reduces signal delay to 90ms.

These ANC earphones have a 30db noise control system that cut off more than 6000 noises but allows important noises like car horns and sirens. They are also IPX5 water-resistant and shockproof which means they’ll be fine with most stumbles or drops they will endure with minimal to no damage.

When it comes to bass sound quality these earphones are good ones to opt for. These ANC earphones are also quite convenient for zoom meetings and calls as they come with a dual-beamforming microphone that ensures crisp and clear mic quality.

 

18. Beyerdynamic Amiron

The best comfort earbuds. 

Weight: 340g | Battery life: NA | Frequency: 15 – 24,000 Hz | Impedance: 40 ohms | Connectivity: The wired version | Placement: Over-Ear | Color: Black  

Experience your favorite tunes with the chunky Beyerdynamic Amiron wired headphones with comfortable snug headbands and soft ear cups. Amiron suits those who like to kick back on the couch and listen to music. You may misjudge their robust look for its lack of comfort, but Amiron proves it wrong. Amiron is a contender for your go-to headphones for longer music sessions. 

The audio clarity and the balance Amiron provides with its punchy bass is an added plus in selecting these headphones for a better home user experience. You can prefer these headphones for a better home experience. However, these headphones don’t suit those who wish to use them outdoors because the open-back design ends up in sound leaks.  

 

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19. AKG Y50BT Headphones

The best lightweight design.

Placement: On-ear | Noise canceling: No | Battery life: 20 hours | Connector: Micro USB | Weight: 25 grams | Battery type: Lithium batteries (included in the product box) | Frequency: 20 – 20kHz | Impedance: 32 Ohms | Sensitivity: 113 dB SPL/V | Drivers: 40mm 

AKG Y50s headphones were first introduced in 2014. AKG Y50BTs provide a dynamic, high-bass, punchy, and detailed sound while having a portable and lightweight design.

The comfort AKG Y50BT provides with its wafer thin headband to its users is a killer factor in selecting this pair of headphones. Whether indoor jamming, recording sessions, outdoor jogging, or travel, these cost-effective yet efficient headphones are a great choice.

 

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How to choose the best earphones for you 

With the different types of earphones available, once you decide on which style you think will work best for your day in and day out, you want to make sure that they also meet certain criteria so they will fit, perform well and last for years to come. With that in mind, we wanted to share our checklist when it comes to choosing the best earphones.

Comfort and fit

The right amount of comfort is important in anything you wear on your body. From jeans to earphones, something worn sparingly won’t generally become uncomfortable. However, over time, without the proper fit, can become uncomfortable. To get an idea of whether or not the earphones you’re buying are not only a good fit, but comfortable, if you have the chance, try the earphones on for about 20 minutes to determine if they are a good fit or not.

For headphones, weight can be a significant factor in regards to overall comfort. Although the overall weight of the headphones may not be that much, when they are on your head, that weight can affect how comfortable they are. The headband can also influence the level of comfort with padding and adjustable to ensure a proper fit.

Portability

With earphones, portability isn’t usually an issue. The physical design of both earphones and headphones, especially those that are wireless is designed for portability. Whether you’re at the gym or hanging around the house, many earphones are made for anybody’s active lifestyle. Make sure that the ones you choose not only satisfy your audio needs but your lifestyle needs as well.

Durability

If, in addition to the work that you do, live a pretty active lifestyle, the durability of your earphones could be something to consider before making a decision. While many earphones and headphones will come with carrying cases to protect them when they aren’t being used. If they are high-end earphones, check to see if you can purchase replacement parts. It can be a lot less money to replace parts of your earphones instead of buying a new set.

Wired or Wireless

Whether you should choose wired or wireless earphones is strictly a personal choice. The can be benefits and negatives for either choice. Wired earphones can offer better sound quality than some brands of wireless earphones but the cord can become tangled easily. While you won’t run into that problem with wireless, the cost of many wireless headphones can be a negative to some.

Price

While for many people, spending hundreds of dollars on top-of-the-line earphones can be a feasible option, but for others, it may not be so easy. Choosing a pair of earphones that fit your budget can sometimes help you find a better quality cheaper option than you would have gotten spending hundreds of dollars on a more expensive pair of earphones.

 

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The Best Earphones & Earbuds in 2022

Here is a summary of the best earbuds, perfect for designers, freelancers, creatives, and music lovers in general.

• Sony WH-1000XM4 — The best noise-canceling headphones overall (Editor’s Choice)
• Plantronics Backbeat PRO 2 — The best budget noise-canceling headphones
• Apple AirPods Pro — The best earbuds for Apple fans
• Bose SoundSport Free — The best earbuds for reliable connectivity
• Optoma NuForce BE Sport4 — The best budget-friendly earbuds
• Apple Airpods Max — The best over-ear earphones
• Sony WF-1000XM3 — The best noise-canceling earbuds
• 1More Triple Driver In-Ear Headphone — The best affordable wired earbuds
• RHA MA 390 Wireless  — The best earbuds with a unique design
• Optoma NuForce BE Free5 — The best earbuds for commuters
• Jabra Elite 65t True Wireless — The best wireless earbuds
• Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear — The best affordable, great-sounding earbuds
• 1More Quad Driver In-Ear Headphones — The best looking wired earbuds
• Focal Sphear S — The best high quality, cost-effective earbuds
• Treblab X5 — The best wireless earbuds for athletic creatives
• xFyro Aria — The best waterproof earbuds
• xFyro ANC Pro — One of the most affordable premium earbuds
• Beyerdynamic Amiron — The best comfort earbuds 
• AKG Y50BT Headphones — The best lightweight design

What earphones do you use?