In 2024, the market for wireless earbuds has increased, offering a wide range of the best AirPods alternatives. These alternatives not only offer the best sound quality and various features but also often have an affordable price. Although Apple’s AirPods consistently rank among the top wireless earbuds, certain features may not be accessible to Android users.
In 2024, the best AirPods alternatives are designed for Android compatibility, offering a full set of features without any compromise. Moreover, some of these alternatives even provide greater control compared to AirPods. These earbuds have been assessed for sound quality, comfort, and features. Lastly, with the prices starting as low as $49, it is available for everyone.
Best AirPods Alternatives for 2024
Although AirPods remain the default choice for many iPhone users, the reality is that the true wireless earbud has increased periodically. Moreover, consumers have a range of best AirPods alternatives to choose from, catering to various needs and budgets in 2024. If you’re seeking a wireless solution with superior sound quality, here are some of the best AirPods alternatives to consider.
BoseQuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
The QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds offer noise cancellation capabilities which are effective, making them the best Airpods alternatives in 2024. It effectively also blocks out both powerful low-frequency sounds and higher-frequency noise.
Additionally, Android users now have a superior streaming option compared to the default SBC codec with AptX Adaptive support. Bose’s signature audio quality remains consistent, characterized by rich bass and vibrant highs, making it appealing to anyone who appreciates high-quality sound.
Nothing Ear (2) Truly Wireless
Among the upper mid-range options, the Nothing Ear (2) Truly Wireless earbuds stand out as the best AirPods alternatives for 2024. These earbuds feature a design similar to AirPods and offer a white color option for those looking to match the aesthetic of Apple earbuds.
Additionally, they offer a feature designed to adjust the sound based on the unique shape of your ears. Unlike AirPods, the Nothing Ear (2) earbuds come with an in-app EQ and presets for sound customization. These earbuds have active noise cancellation (ANC) technology and are designed with an IP55 rating, making them resistant to dust and water. While their battery life lasts for 5.6 hours, it has a charging case capable of storing about four extra charges.
Sony WF-1000M5
Sony WF-1000XM5 wireless earbuds belong to the same generation as WH-1000XM5 over-ear headphones and present a more convenient and portable option. It features an IPX4 rating which is resistant to splashes and sweat, ideal for various activities. They also support voice assistants, enhancing user convenience.
Furthermore, users can access additional functionalities through the Sony Headphones Connect app. This includes features like an ear tip fit test to ensure noise isolation, customization of touch controls, and the ability to fine-tune the sound signature using an equalizer. Utilizing Bluetooth 5.3 technology, it might support all compulsory codecs within the 5.3 stack, including LE audio.
Marshall Minor III
Marshall has a unique style design, sharing similarities with AirPods, such as a semi-open design and a compact charging case. The Marshall Minor III offers a range of additional features, including IPX5 water resistance, making it suitable for outdoor activities and workouts.
Additionally, it also offers wear sensors for automatic pausing. Moreover, users can personalize their audio experience using the Marshall Bluetooth app, available for both iOS and Android devices. Furthermore, it provides up to 5 hours of continuous listening on a single charge. Also, users can enjoy a total of 25 hours of playback time with its case for wireless charging.
Soundcore Liberty 4 NC
The Soundcore Liberty 4 NC stands out as the best AirPods alternatives as it offers affordable true wireless earbuds to users in 2024. These earbuds offer great comfort, a wide array of features, impressive battery life, and remarkable active noise-cancellation performance.
In addition, their noise-canceling capabilities are outstanding and they compete with models priced significantly higher. The Liberty 4 NC earbuds provide the best AirPods alternative for an unbeatable price for most users. They offer extended battery life, effective noise cancellation, and a variety of ear tip options for a comfortable fit.
Sony WF-C500
Sony WF-C500 is positioned as a straightforward option that maintains many of the features contributing to its success without compromising on quality. This positioning also places them as one of the best affordable AirPods alternatives in 2024. With an IPX4 rating, Sony’s WF-C500 wireless earbuds are suitable for running and sports, offering resistance to sweat and splashes.
Additionally, they provide convenient connectivity features such as ‘fast pair’ with Android devices and ‘swift pair’ with Windows 10 PCs. Moreover, it offers 10 hours of battery life on a single charge, which should suffice for most users and provide an additional 10 hours of battery life.
Skullcandy Dime 2 True Wireless In-Ear Bluetooth Earbuds
The Skullcandy true wireless earbuds offer exceptional affordability without compromising on features. They provide a noise-isolating fit, water resistance, and convenient control buttons on each earbud. Additionally, the Skullcandy true wireless earbuds are compatible with both Android and iOS operating systems.
They offer a battery life of 3.5 hours on a single charge and up to 12 hours with the charging case. Furthermore, the small and compact case that comes with these earbuds also includes three earbud tips, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your ears.
JLab Go Air Pop
The JLab Go Air Pop stands out for its incredibly low cost, priced at $25 / £25 / AU$49.95, making it the best AirPods alternatives in 2024. Additionally, JLab offers durable listening gear at remarkably affordable prices.
While the JLab Go Air Pop may not offer the best sound or include features like noise cancellation, it could be highly commendable for its reliable Bluetooth connectivity. In addition, it extends its battery life, comfortable and lightweight earpieces, and dependable music playback on the go.
Sony WF-1000XM4
The Sony WF-1000XM4 remains available as an excellent choice, offering various features with discounts. The model provides sound quality and active noise cancellation effectiveness surpassing that of the AirPods Pro.
Additionally, with an IPX4 rating, these Sony earbuds match the durability of Apple’s flagship model. Moreover, the WF-1000XM4 is considered the best based on battery life, providing 7 to 8 hours of playback in noise cancellation mode on a single charge.
JBL Endurance Peak 3
The JBL Endurance Peak 3 earphones are designed to endure the most rigorous workouts, with the support of an IP68 rating. In addition, their wraparound fit ensures stability in any situation. Moreover, the features include up to 10 hours of battery life and a user-friendly companion app offering customizable EQ settings.
Individuals seeking the best AirPods alternatives have a variety of third-party options to choose from in 2024. These alternatives can offer equally comfortable fit and great noise isolation, improving the listening experience. Lastly, all our recommended best AirPods alternatives in 2024 are compatible with Android smartphones.