Is your iPhone feeling lonely? Does it need a friend or two, or perhaps some buds? We’ve tested and reviewed hundreds of earbuds, and I currently use an iPhone. So, if you’ve been looking for a pair of earbuds for your iPhone, then here are six earbuds for you to consider: two that are under $100, two that cost under $200, and two earbuds that we consider our best picks overall.
Best Budget Options earbuds (Under $100)
For the best earbuds under $100, I was initially going to recommend the Earfun Air Pro 4. For $90, it packs in great features, including good sound quality. However, after more testing and price comparisons, I found an even better option: Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC
The Liberty 4 NC has a comfortable design, IPX4 water resistance, decent microphone quality, Bluetooth 5.3, and support for the LDAC codec. It scored high for sound quality in our tests, and its active noise cancellation reduces outside noise by about 81%. The Liberty 4 NC usually sells for just under $100 but frequently drops to $80 during sales like Prime Day and Black Friday. It’s an excellent value at that price!
Best Mid-Tier Options: AirPods (Under $200)
AirPods 4 with ANC
If you’re ready to spend over $100 but still don’t want to break the bank, here are two more options under $200. First up is the AirPods 4 with ANC.
These earbuds surprised me—they’re the first AirPods that fit comfortably and securely in my ears without needing third-party ear hooks, and they’re more comfortable than the AirPods Pro 2. With an IP54 rating, they’re resistant to both sweat and water, making them ideal for workouts. They also provide decent noise cancellation, good sound quality, and access to Apple-exclusive features like seamless device switching, spatial audio, hands-free Siri, conversation awareness, and voice isolation. However, at $179, they may feel a bit pricey.
Nothing Ear (a)
For something slightly less expensive—around $150—consider the Nothing Ear (a). They offer a unique and comfortable design, solid noise-canceling performance, and customization options through the Nothing X app, which has one of the best equalizers we’ve used in a headphone app. If you like to personalize your sound, the Nothing Ear (1) is worth a look.
Best Overall Options earbuds
If you’re ready to invest in the best earbuds for your iPhone, I’ve got two premium picks.
AirPods Pro 2
AirPods Pro 2: Even though they’re two years old, AirPods Pro 2 still offers an excellent design, pinch and swipe controls, and a host of Apple-specific features that make them a fantastic addition to your Apple ecosystem. They deliver top-notch sound quality and are among the best in noise cancellation, reducing outside noise by about 83%. These are my daily driver earbuds and are ideal for noisy environments like subways or airplanes.
Sony WF-1000XM5
Sony WF-1000XM5: If AirPods aren’t for you, but you’re willing to invest in premium true wireless earbuds, I highly recommend the Sony WF-1000XM5. Sony leads the pack in noise cancellation, and the WF-1000XM5 doesn’t disappoint. These earbuds have rich sound quality, adaptive sound control, and IPX4 water resistance and are comfortable for extended wear. They’re packed with customization options through the Sony Headphones Connect app, which works seamlessly on iOS.
