I Used to Think Apple AirPods Were the Best, But These 10 Changed My Mind

Apple AirPods have become the go-to choice for a lot of people, mostly because they’re easy to use, pair seamlessly with Apple devices, and have that instantly recognizable design. But convenience isn’t everything. When you start paying attention to sound quality, battery life, comfort, and overall value, there are plenty of other headphones that can easily compete or even come out ahead.

In this slideshow, we’re highlighting 10 headphones that offer impressive audio, strong noise cancellation, and features AirPods don’t always deliver. Whether you’re commuting, working out, traveling, or just listening at home, these alternatives show that you don’t need the Apple name to get a great listening experience.

Quick Take:

• Apple AirPods are generally considered the best of the best when it comes to headphones
• Today, many options on the market are just as good if not better than Apple
• Relevant options exceed Apple in performance, design, or longevity

• Price: $179 (before sale pricing)
• Noise-cancelation: No
• Battery life headphones: 10 hours
• Battery life case: N/A
• IP rating: IP55

A very different take on headphones compared to Apple AirPods, the SHOKZ OpenRun Pro is unique. Using bone conduction technology to "hear" your music and the outside world, these headphones are a runner or fitness fanatic's dream. While they lack noise cancelation, they are lightweight and offer excellent sound, all while being water resistant no matter how much you sweat.

• Price: $79 (before sale pricing)
• Noise-cancelation: Yes
• Battery life headphones: 10 hours (ANC on)
• Battery life case: 50 hours
• IP rating: IPX4

Anyone who wants to save money over Apple's AirPod lineup can't go wrong with the Soundcore by Anker Space A40. Regularly on sale for under $50, you get 50 hours of battery life on a single charge with the case, which is long enough to watch 25 movies. And add noise reduction by up to 98% with ANC, and the Anker value shows without stretching your wallet.

• Price: $350 (before sale pricing)
• Noise-cancelation: Yes
• Battery life headphones: 30 hours (ANC on)
• Battery life case: N/A
• IP rating: N/A
• Great AirPods Max Replacements

If you prefer over-the-ear headphones instead of earbuds, the Sony WH-1000XM5 models are hard to go wrong with over the AirPods Max. Touch controls, 30 hours of battery life, and 3 hours of playback with just 3 minutes of charging are ideal for long road trips or travel. Better yet, Sony offers a lightweight design and soft leather, so they feel comfortable on your head for long listening sessions.

• Price: $299 (before sale pricing)
• Noise-cancelation: Yes
• Battery life headphones: 8 hours (ANC on)
• Battery life case: 30
• IP rating: IP54

While the AirPod lineup certainly sounds good enough for most users, those who value an iconic sound should look to the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 earbuds. Lengthy name aside, Sennheiser has a reputation for producing a best-in-class audio experience. Best of all, you can customize the sound using various sound profiles.

• Price: $229 (before sale pricing)
• Noise-cancelation: Yes
• Battery life headphones: 8 hours (ANC on)
• Battery life case: 30
• IP rating: IP54

Unsurprisingly, the best headphones made by Google are also the best AirPod alternatives for fans of AI work. With hands-free support for talking directly with Google Gemini, the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 are far better for hands-free work than Apple and Siri. One big benefit of the Pixel Buds is their incredible fit, emphasizing a design that works well with every ear size.

• Price: $299 (before sale pricing)
• Noise-cancelation: Yes
• Battery life headphones: 6 hours (ANC on), 8.5 hours hours (ANC off)
• Battery life case: 24 hours
• IP rating: IPX4

With some of the best noise cancellation in the headphone space, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds are a fantastic choice for most people. Battery life is relatively similar to that of most AirPod models. Still, Bose has done such incredible work with noise cancellation that it's hard to ignore just how good these headphones are while commuting on public transportation.

• Price: $99 (before sale pricing)
• Noise-cancelation: Yes
• Battery life headphones: 7 hours (ANC on), 9 hours (ANC off)
• Battery life case: 36 hours
• IP rating: IPX5

Anyone who wants a value-friendly alternative to the AirPods should look for a good deal on the EarFun Air Pro 3 headphones. You have a best-in-class battery with a combined 45 hours of battery life with the earbuds plus the case. You also receive noise cancellation, Bluetooth 5.3, and the ability to use the EarFun app to customize the sound.

• Price: $199 (before sale pricing)
• Noise-cancelation: Yes
• Battery life headphones: 6 hours (ANC on)
• Battery life case: 24 hours
• IP rating: IPX4

If you like the seamless connectivity of AirPods but want something a little different, Beats Fit Pro can't be ignored. It is both sweat- and water-resistant, making it a great alternative for those who want to listen to music while working out. While you still receive active noise cancellation, the Beats Fit Pro stays in place better with its secure-fit wingtips.

• Price: $125 (before sale pricing)
• Noise-cancelation: Yes
• Battery life headphones: 6 hours (ANC on), 9 hours (ANC off)
• Battery life case: 39 hours
• IP rating: IP55

The OnePlus Buds Pro 2 immediately stands out as an AirPod competitor thanks to their lengthy battery life. With 39 hours available using the battery case, this beats the best AirPod battery life, which tops off at 30 hours. You also get terrific AI-powered noise cancelation, outstanding bass, spatial audio, and 10 hours of battery life with just 10 minutes on a charger.

• Price: $299 (before sale pricing)
• Noise-cancelation: AI-driven
• Battery life headphones: 6 hours (ANC on), 7 hours (ANC off)
• Battery life case: 24 hours
• IP rating: IPX4

When finding a standout AirPod alternative, the Sony WF-1000XM5 headphones are hard to beat. Between AI-driven active noise canceling and customer EQ settings, there is very little to dislike about anything Sony makes. The only downside is that the Sonys don't connect as seamlessly as AirPods, but given the boost in sound quality, this can be easily overlooked.