Black Friday is approaching, and if you’re in the market for new earbuds, now is the time to start planning. With a huge range of options available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. This guide, compiled by Mashable’s audio experts, breaks down the best earbuds available this year, with a focus on what you can expect during the Black Friday sales.
The market has shifted. While wired earbuds still exist, wireless options dominate, offering advanced noise cancellation and high-quality microphones. Prices range from budget-friendly to premium, with top-tier models costing upwards of $300. Sales during Black Friday can significantly reduce these costs, making high-end features more accessible.
Why Now?
The current trend is towards features, not just sound. Noise cancellation, spatial audio, and specialized models like sleep earbuds are increasingly popular. Black Friday is the ideal time to capitalize on discounts, especially for premium brands like Bose and Apple.
Our Top Picks
1. Panasonic Technics EAH-AZ100: Best for Audiophiles
The Panasonic Technics EAH-AZ100 earbuds deliver exceptional sound quality, making them ideal for music enthusiasts. They feature magnetic fluid drivers for rich, detailed audio, with customizable bass and treble settings. The earbuds also offer excellent active noise cancellation and can connect to three Bluetooth devices simultaneously.
Key Features:
- Exceptional sound quality with magnetic fluid drivers
- Advanced active noise cancellation
- Multipoint connection to three devices
- Long battery life (10 hours per charge, 28 hours with case)
Drawbacks:
- Can be uncomfortable for extended wear
- High price point ($299)
2. Bose QuietComfort Ultra: Best for Noise Cancellation
If noise cancellation is your priority, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds are the way to go. With industry-leading ANC, these earbuds silence the world around you, making them perfect for travel, work, or simply escaping distractions.
Key Features:
- Unbeatable noise cancellation
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Long battery life (6 hours per charge, 24 hours with case)
- Wireless charging
Drawbacks:
- Battery life is average for the price
- Limited equalizer customization
3. Anker Soundcore P20i: Best Budget Option
For those on a tight budget, the Anker Soundcore P20i earbuds offer surprising value. Despite their low price, they deliver good sound quality, long battery life, and even a “find device” feature that helps you locate lost earbuds.
Key Features:
- Affordable price point
- Long battery life (9.5-10 hours per charge, 30 hours with case)
- “Find device” feature
- Decent sound quality
Drawbacks:
- No active noise cancellation
- No multipoint connection
4. Apple AirPods Pro 3: Best for Apple Users
The Apple AirPods Pro 3 are the premium choice for Apple device owners. Seamless integration with iOS and Mac, combined with advanced features like heart rate monitoring and live translation, make them a standout option.
Key Features:
- Seamless Apple integration
- Advanced noise cancellation
- Heart rate monitoring
- Live translation
Drawbacks:
- High price point ($249)
- Limited equalizer customization
5. Anker Soundcore Sleep A10: Best for Sleep
The Anker Soundcore Sleep A10 earbuds are designed specifically for sleep. They offer a comfortable fit, long battery life, and a library of sleep sounds to help you drift off.
Key Features:
- Comfortable fit for sleep
- Long battery life
- Sleep sound library
- Affordable price point
Drawbacks:
- Limited sound customization
- Sleep sound library is limited
Black Friday Deals to Expect
Black Friday sales are expected to offer significant discounts on all of these models. Keep an eye out for deals on the Bose QuietComfort Ultra, which may drop to their lowest price since release. The Apple AirPods Pro 3 are also likely to see discounts, making them more accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right earbuds depends on your needs and budget. Whether you’re an audiophile, a frequent traveler, or simply looking for a comfortable pair for sleep, there’s an option for you. With Black Friday sales approaching, now is the time to start planning your purchase
