With a price of $139.95, while Apple’s truly wireless earbuds, the AirPods have become one of the bestselling earphones ever since their launch in 2016. They are still pretty pricey for what they are. When they were first released, they were the only true wireless headphones on the market, and users worldwide marveled at how freeing Apple’s smash hit was.
Now, the industry has caught up, and even with a 2019 refresh, the AirPods haven’t made many more leaps in sound and build quality, barring the addition of wireless charging and increased battery life. In 2024, hundreds of alternative true wireless earbuds match, if not “beat,” the sound quality of the AirPods, and some are mere fractions of the price of Apple’s offering.
Also Read: Best Apple AirPods Pro case covers for 2023 – & – Best AirPods case for 2023
Selecting the right product from the thousands of options available on Amazon can be quite difficult. That’s why we at TechEngage have compiled this list of Amazon’s best true wireless earbuds for 2024.
Comparison of Apple AirPods with its alternatives
| Features | Apple AirPods 2nd Gen | Apple AirPods 3rd Gen | JBL Free X True Wireless | Anker SoundCore Life P2 | SOUNDPEATS Q True Wireless | Sony WF-1000XM5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sound Quality | Good | Excellent | Premium | Good | Good | Superior |
| Active Noise Cancellation | No | Yes | Limited | No | Active Noise Cancellation | Advanced Noise Cancellation |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 4.2 | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth |
| Battery Life | 5 hours | 6 hours | 4 hours | 7 hours | 4.5 hours | 8 hours |
| Charging Time | 2 hours | 1 hour | 2 hours | 2 hours | 2 hours | 1.5 hours |
| Water Resistance | No | No | Yes (IPX7) | Yes (IPX5) | Yes (IPX5) | Yes (IPX4) |
| Price | $139.95 | $131.47 | $298.00 |
Best AirPods-Alternatives
1. JBL Free X True Wireless Earbuds
Pros:
- Premium sound quality
- Comfortable fit
- Bluetooth 4.2
- Charging case with up to 20 hours of battery life
Cons:
- Limited noise cancellation
- Slightly bulky design
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Price | |
| Discount | – |
| Rating on Amazon | out of 5 stars – Out of reviews. |
| Brand | JBL Store |
| Buy Now | Buy on Amazon |
Next on our list is the JBL Free X True Wireless Earbuds. Known for their exceptional audio performance, JBL delivers once again with these wireless earbuds.
Designed for music enthusiasts, these earbuds offer a premium sound experience. The deep bass and clear highs will immerse you in your favorite tunes like never before. Whether you’re listening to your favorite artists or enjoying podcasts, the JBL Free X will elevate your audio experience to new heights.
Comfort is also a priority with the JBL Free X. The ergonomic design ensures a secure and comfortable fit, allowing you to wear them for extended periods without discomfort. Say goodbye to ear fatigue and hello to endless enjoyment.
With a Bluetooth 4.2 connection, you can easily pair these earbuds with your devices and enjoy wireless freedom. No more tangled cables or limited mobility. Just pure audio bliss.
The included charging case is a great companion for the JBL Free X. It provides an additional 20 hours of battery life, ensuring that your earbuds are always ready to go. Whether you’re traveling or on-the-go, you can count on these earbuds to keep up with your busy lifestyle.
While the JBL Free X offers decent noise cancellation, it may not completely eliminate all background noise. You may still hear some external sounds if you’re in a noisy environment. However, the premium sound quality makes up for this minor limitation.
In terms of design, the JBL Free X earbuds are slightly bulkier compared to other options on the market. While this may not be an issue for everyone, some users may find them less discreet than other slim-profile earbuds. However, the comfort and audio performance make up for the slightly bulkier design.
With an average rating of stars out of 5, customers have praised the JBL Free X for its impressive sound quality and comfortable fit. One satisfied customer writes:
“The sound quality is fantastic, with solid bass and clear mids and highs. They are comfortable to wear even for extended periods. The charging case is compact and convenient. Overall, a great product from JBL.”
Priced at , the JBL Free X True Wireless Earbuds offer a superb audio experience and exceptional comfort at a reasonable price. If you’re looking for wireless earbuds that deliver on sound quality and comfort, the JBL Free X is a worthy contender.
2. Anker SoundCore Life P2
Pros:
- Good sound quality
- Great build
Cons:
- Stem
- Micro-USB A
- Button is not well thought out
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Price | |
| Discount | – |
| Rating on Amazon | out of 5 stars – Out of reviews. |
| Brand | SoundCore Store |
| Buy Now | Buy on Amazon |
The second choice on this list is from the Chinese technology giant Anker. The Soundcore Life P2 matches Apple’s AirPods’ sound quality and convivence at under half of the price.
Each earbud has two microphones housed in the stem and paired with beamforming noise reduction and CVC (Clear Voice Capture) 8.0 technology; your voice will sound loud and clear, perfect for making calls by phone and internet calls. The days of “sorry, I didn’t catch that” are over with this great microphone array.
The graphene drivers produce a wider soundstage with exceptional accuracy and clarity. Anker’s propriety BassUp technology conducts real-time analysis and enhances the bass frequencies to add powerful sonic punch. This results in a powerful and crisp sound signature with a wide soundstage for earbuds. Customers won’t be disappointed with the sound quality of the Life P2’s.
A single charge gives you a full 7 hours of listening, while the charging case can extend that to an astonishing 40 hours. If you’re in a hurry, charge the charging case for 10 minutes and get up to 1 hour of playtime, perfect for ensuring you’re all geared up for a short run.
With an average rating of stars out of 5, Amazon customers love the sound quality and great value of the Anker SoundCore Life P2. One five-star review states:
“I’ve been enjoying these earbuds for almost two days straight. Both music and podcasts sound great, and the mics have been solid. I used them for work calls and the people I’ve asked have said that I sounded clear.
I think I hit the sweet spot in terms price vs. earbud battery, case battery, IPX waterproof rating, cVc noise cancelling, and quality of microphones. The big con that I didn’t foresee was that physical buttons on truely wireless earbuds can be kind of painful. The positioning and the stiff click on these buttons is such that pressing them requires jamming the earbuds deeper into your ear.”
With a list price of , these earbuds are considerably cheaper than AirPods and sound just as great. If you’re looking for quality true wireless buds, you should consider Anker SoundCore Life P2.
3. SOUNDPEATS Q True Wireless Earphones Bluetooth 5.0
Pros:
- Good sound quality
- USB C
- Active noise cancellation
Cons:
- Large case
- No in-ear detection
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Price | |
| Discount | – |
| Rating on Amazon | out of 5 stars – Out of reviews. |
| Brand | SoundPEATS Store |
| Buy Now | Buy on Amazon |
With a large 10mm driver, these true wireless earbuds provide superior sound quality at an affordable price. The SoundPEATS Q wireless earbuds support wireless charging if you own a Qi wireless charging pad for easy charging.
Barring that, whilst alternatives use the inferior Micro-USB connector, the SoundPEATS’ case charges by USB-C quick charge in 2 hours to ensure you’re all juiced up for the day. Alone, the earbuds have a battery life of 7 hours of continuous playback.
With the latest Bluetooth 5.0 transmission, SoundPEATS Q wireless earbuds provide a seamless connection without any interruptions in use. The quad microphone array, with two built-in dual mics in each earbud, maximize the call performance, ensuring your voice is loud and clear. One microphone is for capturing your voice best, and the other is for reducing the ambient noise around you. That’s active ambient noise reduction!
With an average rating of stars out of 5, Amazon reviewers love these earbuds. One customer writes:
“Talking quality was very good. Especially when in a vehicle, or walking outside. On the receiving end, I was told I was loud and clear without any distortions.
Overall, for the price, these are great. I would buy these as gifts for friends and family. Soundpeats Q, I would call these as successors for Soundpeats True Buds which were budget alternative for Gen1 AirPods.”
Priced at , these buds represent some insane value for money. If you’re looking for good but affordable true wireless earphones, the SoundPEATS are an excellent choice and well worth some consideration.
4. Sony WF-1000XM5
The Sony WF-1000XM5 truly wireless Bluetooth earbuds with built-in Alexa and advanced noise-canceling technology offer a compelling audio experience. Here, we present the pros and cons of these remarkable earbuds, helping you make an informed decision before purchasing.
Pros
- Superior Sound Quality: The Sony WF-1000XM5 delivers exceptional audio performance, offering a balanced and immersive soundstage that enhances your music, movies, and podcasts.
- Advanced Noise-Canceling: Experience uninterrupted audio bliss with the effective noise-canceling technology, which significantly reduces background noises and distractions.
- Built-in Alexa Support: With Alexa built right into the earbuds, you can effortlessly control your music, manage your day, and access information using just your voice.
- Seamless Connectivity: These earbuds utilize the latest Bluetooth technology, ensuring a stable and reliable connection to your devices for a hassle-free listening experience.
- Long Battery Life: Enjoy extended listening sessions with the Sony WF-1000XM5, thanks to their impressive battery life. With the compact charging case, you can also conveniently charge them wirelessly or quickly.
- Comfortable Fit: The earbuds come with various ear tip sizes and an ergonomic design, providing a secure and comfortable fit for long periods of use, making them ideal for workouts or extended listening sessions.
Cons
- Price: The Sony WF-1000XM5 is a premium product, which means it comes with a higher price tag than some other wireless earbuds on the market.
- Size: While the earbuds are relatively compact, the charging case may be bulkier compared to other options, which could be a consideration for those seeking a more portable solution.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Price | $298.00 |
| Discount | – |
| Rating on Amazon | out of 5 stars – Out of reviews. |
| Brand | Sony Store |
| Buy Now | Buy on Amazon |
In conclusion, the Sony WF-1000XM5 offers numerous benefits, including exceptional sound quality, advanced noise-canceling technology, built-in Alexa support, and a comfortable fit. However, the higher price and relatively larger charging case are factors to consider. Ultimately, weighing these pros and cons is important based on your specific needs and preferences.
Buy Now on AmazonConclusion
In conclusion, if you’re in the market for affordable wireless earbuds that offer exceptional sound quality, there are several excellent alternatives to Apple’s AirPods. Our comprehensive list includes the JBL Free X True Wireless Earbuds, Anker SoundCore Life P2, SOUNDPEATS Q True Wireless Earphones Bluetooth 5.0, and the Sony WF-1000XM5.
Each option provides unique features and benefits, catering to different preferences and budgets. The JBL Free X stands out for its premium sound quality and comfortable fit, making it an excellent choice for music enthusiasts. The Anker SoundCore Life P2 offers great sound quality, a reliable build, and impressive battery life at an affordable price point. The SOUNDPEATS Q delivers superior sound quality, USB-C charging, and active noise cancellation at an unbeatable value. Lastly, the Sony WF-1000XM5 boasts exceptional sound quality, advanced noise-canceling, built-in Alexa support, and a comfortable fit, albeit at a higher price.
Ultimately, it’s essential to consider your specific needs, preferences, and budget when selecting the best AirPods alternative. Each option provides an exciting alternative that rivals or surpasses the AirPods in terms of sound quality, comfort, and price. We hope this comprehensive list helps you make an informed decision and find the perfect true wireless earbuds for your needs.
FAQs: AirPods Alternatives
Are these AirPods alternatives compatible with Apple devices?
Yes, all the AirPods alternatives mentioned in this post are compatible with Apple devices. They use Bluetooth technology to connect to your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, providing a seamless and wireless listening experience.
Do these alternatives offer active noise cancellation?
Yes, some of the AirPods alternatives featured in this post offer active noise cancellation. The Sony WF-1000XM5, for example, is equipped with advanced noise-canceling technology, which significantly reduces background noises and distractions. The Anker SoundCore Life P2 also features excellent noise reduction capabilities. However, it’s important to note that the level and effectiveness of noise cancellation may vary between models.
Can I use these alternatives for making phone calls?
Absolutely! All the AirPods alternatives mentioned in this post are designed to allow you to make phone calls easily. They have built-in microphones and advanced voice technology to ensure crystal-clear call quality.
Are these AirPods alternatives as good as the original AirPods?
While the AirPods alternatives mentioned in this post offer similar features and functionalities to Apple AirPods, their performance may vary. Some alternatives may offer better sound quality, longer battery life, or additional features like active noise cancellation. It ultimately depends on individual preferences, budget, and specific needs.
Are these AirPods alternatives suitable for fitness activities?
Many of the AirPods alternatives discussed in this post are designed to be suitable for fitness activities. They offer features such as sweat resistance, secure fit, and sometimes even water resistance. This makes them ideal for workouts, running, or other physical activities requiring reliable and comfortable audio companions.
Do these AirPods alternatives support voice assistants like Siri?
Yes, most of the AirPods alternatives mentioned in this post support voice assistants, including Siri. By simply activating the voice assistant feature on your paired device, you can use voice commands to control your music, make calls, ask questions, and access various other functionalities offered by voice assistants.
Can these AirPods alternatives connect to multiple devices simultaneously?
It depends on the specific model, but many AirPods alternatives do offer the ability to connect to multiple devices simultaneously. This allows you to seamlessly switch between different devices, such as your phone and laptop, without the hassle of disconnecting and reconnecting each time.
How do these AirPods alternatives compare in terms of battery life?
The battery life of AirPods alternatives can vary depending on the model and usage. However, many alternatives offer comparable or even better battery life compared to Apple AirPods. Some models have longer playback times, while others come with portable charging cases that provide additional battery backup on the go.
Do these AirPods alternatives come with warranty or return policies?
Most reputable brands offer warranty and return policies for their AirPods alternatives. The duration and warranty terms may differ, so it’s advisable to check the manufacturer’s website or contact their customer support for specific details. Additionally, many online retailers also provide return or exchange options within a certain period of time after purchase.
What type of connectivity do these AirPods alternatives use?
The AirPods alternatives discussed in this post mainly use Bluetooth connectivity. They are designed to seamlessly connect to your devices, such as smartphones, tablets, or computers, via Bluetooth. This wireless connection eliminates the hassle of tangled cables and provides more freedom of movement while enjoying your audio content.
Can I use these AirPods alternatives with non-Apple devices?
Absolutely! These AirPods alternatives are not exclusive to Apple devices. They can be used with a wide range of devices that support Bluetooth connectivity, including Android smartphones, Windows computers, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices.
Are these AirPods alternatives customizable?
Yes, some AirPods alternatives come with companion apps that allow you to customize various settings and features. These apps may offer options to modify sound profiles, enable/disable noise cancellation, adjust touch controls, and more. Customization features may vary between models and brands, so it’s recommended to check the specific capabilities of each AirPods alternative.
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