Bowers & Wilkins have upgraded their PI7 noise-canceling earbuds to the new S2 model, offering better battery life and Bluetooth range of up to 25 meters. The buds now integrate into the Bowers & Wilkins Music app for a much-improved setup experience. On the other hand, Sony’s LinkBuds S are traditional noise-isolating earbuds, more compact and lighter than their former flagship WF-1000XM4 model, featuring Sony’s V1 processor. While not as superior as the XM4s or XM5s, they offer good sound and noise canceling for those looking for high performance at a lower price.
The Sony WF-1000XM4, released in 2021, was an Editors’ Choice Award winner for its excellent performance. However, Sony has now released the updated WF-1000XM5, making the previous model a good option for those able to find it at a discounted price. The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 also stood out as one of the top true wireless earbuds in 2022, but newer models like the Momentum True Wireless 4, AirPods Pro 2, and Sony WF-1000XM5 offer superior features. The JBL Tour Pro 2 earbuds feature a full-color touchscreen display on the case, adding a unique feature to their strong battery life, noise canceling, and voice-calling performance.
Beyerdynamic introduced its first truly wireless earbuds with the Free Byrd model, offering active noise canceling, up to 11 hours of battery life, and high-quality sound. Samsung’s Galaxy Buds 2 provide a more compact option compared to the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, with IPX2 sweat resistance and less wind noise interference due to their design. Bang & Olufsen’s Beoplay EX earbuds offer top-notch sound, noise canceling, and voice-calling performance with a comfortable fit and premium build quality. The Soundcore by Anker Liberty 4 earbuds may not match higher-end models in sound quality, but they offer features like spatial audio, multipoint Bluetooth pairing, and support for the LDAC audio codec.
For those looking for more affordable options, Sennheiser’s CX Plus earbuds provide good sound quality and decent noise canceling compared to their higher-end models like the Momentum True Wireless 3. The CX model, without active noise canceling, offers a more budget-friendly option for users looking for quality audio. Ultimately, there are many options available in the true wireless earbuds market, ranging from high-end models like Bowers & Wilkins and Sony to more budget-friendly choices from brands like Sennheiser and Anker. Each model offers unique features and performance levels to cater to different preferences and budgets.
