Best Around the Ear Headphones: Top Picks Reviewed

1. Active Noise Cancelling Ear Buds Wireless Earbuds 80h Playtime Bluetooth

We put these Active Noise Cancelling Ear Buds to the test, and for their price point, the active noise cancellation (ANC) is surprisingly effective. It did a decent job of muffling the low rumble of traffic during our commute, creating a more focused listening environment. The sound quality is clear, with a noticeable emphasis on the mids, making vocals stand out well.

The 80-hour playtime is a significant draw, and in our experience, it lived up to the claims with extended listening sessions between charges. The charging case itself feels a bit lightweight, and the plastic construction doesn’t inspire immense confidence for long-term durability. However, the earbuds fit snugly in the ear, even during moderate activity, which is a definite plus.

This product is ideal for budget-conscious commuters or students who need to block out ambient noise for study sessions. If you demand audiophile-grade sound or premium build materials, you’ll likely find these lacking. The touch controls, while functional, are a little overly sensitive, leading to accidental pauses or skips.

2. Occiam Active Noise Cancelling Earbuds Wireless Bluetooth Headphones Ear Buds

The occiam Active Noise Cancelling Earbuds offer a commendable level of noise isolation, particularly for everyday distractions. While not on par with premium offerings, they effectively reduce the drone of office air conditioning and general chatter. Audio reproduction is balanced, with a pleasant warmth in the bass that doesn’t overpower the mids or highs. The earbuds themselves are comfortable for extended wear, fitting well without causing ear fatigue.

I found the Bluetooth connectivity to be stable, with no noticeable dropouts during our testing period. The charging case has a satisfying magnetic closure, and the matte finish resists fingerprints well. However, the button for pairing and power feels a bit mushy, lacking a definitive click that some users might prefer.

These are a solid choice for casual listeners who want decent ANC without breaking the bank. If you’re a frequent flyer or someone who needs absolute silence for critical listening, you might want to explore higher-tier options. The included ear tips are a bit limited in size selection, which could impact the perfect seal for some ears.

3. Bmani Ear Buds Wireless Earbuds Bluetooth Headphones with 80h Playtime

When considering the best around the ear headphones, it’s important to evaluate options across various form factors, and these bmani Ear Buds offer a compelling value proposition. The 80-hour playtime is genuinely impressive, meaning you can go for days without needing to reach for a charger, which is fantastic for frequent travelers. The sound signature leans slightly towards the bass, providing a punchy experience that works well for pop and electronic music.

The fit is secure thanks to the included wingtips, which I found stayed put even during a brisk walk. The charging case feels sturdy and has a pleasing heft to it. My only real gripe is with the button placement on the earbuds themselves; they are quite small and can be a bit fiddly to locate by feel alone, leading to occasional accidental presses.

These are perfect for individuals who prioritize long battery life and a robust sound for their daily commute or gym sessions. If you’re looking for the most discreet in-ear experience or a neutral sound profile for classical music, these might not be your ideal pick. The ANC, while present, is more of a passive isolation feature than active noise cancellation.

4. Soundcore V20i by Anker Open

The Soundcore V20i by Anker presents an interesting take on open-ear audio, and we found the sound to be surprisingly full for a design that doesn’t seal the ear canal. Music reproduction is clear, with a decent soundstage that allows for awareness of your surroundings, which is a key benefit of this design. The earbuds are exceptionally lightweight and comfortable, making them ideal for all-day wear without any pressure points.

Bluetooth connectivity was robust, and the pairing process was straightforward. The charging case is compact and easily slips into a pocket. However, the open design inherently means that bass response will be less impactful than with traditional sealed earbuds, and there’s a noticeable leakage of sound at higher volumes, which could be a concern in quiet environments.

This model is excellent for runners, cyclists, or anyone who needs to stay aware of their auditory environment while still enjoying their music or podcasts. If you’re seeking deep bass or complete noise isolation, you should definitely look elsewhere. The sound quality, while good for the form factor, lacks the richness and depth of in-ear competitors.

5. Pocbuds Bluetooth Headphones Wireless Earbuds 80hrs Playtime Wireless Charging Case

We tested the PocBuds with their impressive 80-hour playtime, and it certainly holds up for extended use between charges, making them a convenient option for long trips. The wireless charging case adds a touch of modern convenience, eliminating the need to fumble with cables. The sound quality is generally pleasing, with a balanced profile that handles various music genres adequately, though it lacks a certain sparkle in the treble.

The earbuds fit well and provide a secure seal, which aids in passive noise isolation. The touch controls are responsive, though occasionally a bit too sensitive, leading to accidental activations. The build quality of the earbuds themselves feels solid, but the charging case, while functional, has a slightly glossy finish that tends to attract fingerprints quite readily.

These are a good option for users who prioritize battery life and the convenience of wireless charging in a budget-friendly package. If you are a discerning listener who demands crisp highs or a premium feel in your accessories, these may not fully satisfy. The ANC is present but very mild, offering only a slight reduction in ambient noise.

6. Gnmn Active Noise Cancelling Ear Buds Wireless Earbuds 96hrs Playback

We put the GNMN Active Noise Cancelling Ear Buds to the test, and while they offer impressive battery life, the active noise cancellation (ANC) is more of a gentle whisper than a firm silencing.

The sound quality is decent for casual listening, with a slightly bass-forward profile that many will enjoy. However, audiophiles might find the mids and highs lacking a bit of clarity and sparkle. The earbuds themselves are lightweight and fit snugly, though the touch controls can be overly sensitive, leading to accidental pauses or skips.

For those who prioritize extended listening sessions without constant charging, these GNMN buds are a compelling option. I found myself using them for an entire workday and then some, which is a significant convenience. They are well-suited for commuters who want to drown out general ambient noise, but not for those seeking true silence in loud environments.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with marathon battery life and acceptable ANC for everyday commutes, these are worth considering. However, if pristine audio fidelity or robust noise cancellation is your top priority, you might need to explore other avenues.

7. Boean Bluetooth Headphones, Wireless Headphones with 16 Hours Playtime Bluetooth

The Boean Bluetooth Headphones promise 16 hours of playtime, and in our testing, they delivered close to that mark, making them a solid contender for daily use. We found the build quality to be a bit plasticky, which is a common trade-off at this price point, but they feel sturdy enough for regular wear.

Sound-wise, the Boean headphones offer a balanced profile that should appeal to a wide audience. The bass is present without being overpowering, and vocals come through clearly. They don’t quite reach the sonic heights of premium models, but for general music listening and podcasts, they perform admirably. The fit is comfortable, with soft earcups that don’t cause fatigue even after extended periods.

These are a great option for students or anyone needing reliable wireless audio for study sessions or work. I particularly appreciated how easy they were to pair with multiple devices, switching between my laptop and phone without fuss. For someone seeking straightforward, dependable sound without breaking the bank, these are a good choice among the best around the ear headphones.

Anyone prioritizing premium materials or advanced audio features might find these lacking. However, for dependable, everyday listening with a decent battery life, they are a perfectly capable option.

8. Beats Powerbeats Pro 2

We spent considerable time with the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2, and their secure fit during intense workouts is undeniable. The ear hooks are a standout feature, ensuring they stay put no matter how vigorous your activity. The sound profile is signature Beats – punchy bass that can sometimes overshadow the finer details in the music.

The integration with Apple devices is, as expected, top-notch, offering quick pairing and reliable connectivity. However, for Android users, the experience is less refined, with some features feeling a bit tacked on. The charging case is compact and provides ample extra juice, though its glossy finish is a fingerprint magnet.

These are undoubtedly for the fitness enthusiast who demands an unshakeable fit and a sound that drives them through their workout. I found them to be incredibly reliable during my runs, never once needing to adjust them. The active noise cancellation is decent but not class-leading, allowing some ambient noise through.

If you’re an Android user or prefer a more neutral sound signature, you should look elsewhere. While excellent for their intended purpose, they come with a premium price tag and some compromises for non-Apple users.

9. Jbl Endurance Peak 3

The JBL Endurance Peak 3 earbuds impressed us with their rugged design and IP68 water and dust resistance, making them ideal for any environment. The sound quality is energetic, with a strong emphasis on bass that’s perfect for motivating workouts. We noticed that the touch controls, while customizable, can be a bit finicky to get used to.

Battery life is a strong suit here, offering plenty of playback time even with ANC engaged. The fit is secure thanks to the ear hooks, and they remained comfortable even during extended listening sessions. The ambient sound mode is a useful addition for situational awareness, though it does introduce a slight hiss.

These are a fantastic choice for outdoor adventurers, swimmers, or anyone who needs earbuds that can withstand the elements. I took them through a rainstorm, and they performed flawlessly, a testament to their robust build. The charging case is a bit bulky, but its durability makes up for it.

If you’re looking for subtle, refined audio or a compact charging case, these might not be the best fit. However, for durability and a powerful sound experience, they are hard to beat.

10. Jlab, Go Sport+, True Wireless Workout Earbuds, Bluetooth Sport Earbuds

We tested the JLab Go Sport+ earbuds, and they offer a no-frills approach to workout audio. The sound is surprisingly decent for the price, with a clear mid-range and a respectable bass presence that won’t fatigue your ears. The earbuds are lightweight and come with multiple ear tip sizes, allowing for a customizable and secure fit.

The battery life is adequate for most workouts, and the charging case provides a few extra charges, though it’s not the most robustly built. I found the Bluetooth connection to be stable, with minimal dropouts even during high-impact activities. The physical buttons on the earbuds are a welcome change from sensitive touch controls, offering tactile feedback.

These are a solid option for budget-conscious athletes or anyone who needs a reliable pair of workout earbuds without all the bells and whistles. They are perfect for those who prioritize function over form and want something that will simply get the job done during their training sessions. The overall design is functional rather than stylish.

If you’re seeking premium sound, advanced features like ANC, or a sleek charging case, you’ll need to invest more. However, for their intended purpose as affordable workout companions, they perform admirably.