If you own an iPhone, iPad, Mac, iPod, or all of the above, you've likely looked into what Apple offers for headphones. They've released a few models under the AirPods lineup and their subsidiary brand, Beats, but they don't have a wide selection to choose from. As such, not all recommendations on this list utilize Apple's W1/H1 and H2 chips, which enable headphones to pair seamlessly to your Apple devices. However, the chips aren't strictly necessary, and most Bluetooth headphones without one will still work with Apple devices. Additionally, since newer iPhones no longer have a headphone jack, opting for a wireless pair of headphones is easier.
We've tested over 285 wireless in-ears and earbuds; below are our top recommendations for the best earbuds for iPhone users to purchase. See our recommendations for the best wireless Bluetooth earbuds, the best earbuds with a mic, and the best true wireless earbuds.
Quick Look
Looking for Black Friday savings on your next pair of headphones? We've got you covered! Check out our Early Black Friday 2025 Deals article for what's worthwhile this year.
-
Best Earbuds For iPhone
Noise Isolation - Full Range9.7Continuous Battery Life9 hrsPeaks/Dips6.6Frequency Response Consistency9.0Controls8.2Comfort8.0App Support7.0Sports And Fitness8.1Travel8.6Office Work8.0Wireless Gaming (In Development)6.0Wired Gaming (In Development)5.8Audio Reproduction Accuracy7.5Noise Isolation9.7Microphone (In Development)6.3See all our test resultsFrequency Response Consistency9.0The best iPhone earbuds are the Apple AirPods Pro 3. These premium-tier earbuds come decked out with all of the brand's latest technology and are optimized for use with iOS. One of the most impressive features is the improvement to the active noise cancelling (ANC) system, which ranks among the best we've tested. It effectively filters out engine rumble, airplane cabin din, and squeaky subway brakes. Plus, you can squeeze nine hours of continuous playback with ANC on, so you can get through a workday without a recharge. The buds come with an H2 chip for conveniently switching between iCloud accounts on different Apple devices, and the case's tracking has improved the 'Find My' function if you misplace them.
Integration with your iPhone runs deep: the buds use the OS to automatically handle updates, but it's worth checking region availability and compatibility for some features, which might be limited to specific iPhone models. Features include being able to use the buds as hearing aids (for mild to moderate hearing impairment), or as hearing protection, and Live Translation, just to name a few. When paired with your iPhone, the microphone system's connection is optimized to capture your voice clearly and does a decent job of rejecting noise, making it a perfect choice for calls and meetings. Spatial Audio is available with head tracking, and these buds also utilize a loudness contour that automatically adjusts the frequency response so you perceive the sound similarly regardless of the volume setting.
That said, besides a tone slider in the Accessibility menu, there's no conventional graphic equalizer to alter the sound profile, which offers a solid bass thump, clear mids, and a somewhat excited top-end, making cymbal harmonics sizzle. Still, if you can sacrifice the iOS-specific features, the Technics EAH-AZ100 represent a premium alternative, lending you more hands-on control over the frequency response and longer battery life, but these buds lack the frills of iOS integration, like Live Translation.
-
Best Upper Mid-Range Earbuds For iPhone
Noise Isolation - Full Range9.1Continuous Battery Life5.9 hrsPeaks/Dips8.6Frequency Response Consistency8.0Controls8.2Comfort7.5App Support6.5Sports And Fitness7.9Travel8.4Office Work7.7Wireless Gaming (In Development)5.7Wired Gaming (In Development)5.5Audio Reproduction Accuracy7.9Noise Isolation9.2Microphone (In Development)5.9See all our test resultsFrequency Response Consistency8.0The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are the best earbuds for iPhone we've tested, belonging to the upper mid-range tier. These iconic buds are a good choice for anyone looking for the full Apple experience at a more accessible price since the release of the Apple AirPods Pro 3. Consider the AirPods Pro 2 as the slightly lower spec version of the top pick (check out this detailed comparison for more information), while sharing similar technology developed for use with iPhones like Spatial Audio and Live Translation. Their continuous battery life is about 33% shorter at 5.9 hours than the flagship, though the case stores more hours of charge in total than the successor. However, the buds have the same H2 chip, letting you seamlessly pair with other Apple devices registered to your iCloud account. They also share the loudness contour meant to improve audio playback at different volume levels and Adaptive EQ, which modifies the upper frequencies based on your anatomy.
Like other AirPods, these lack a dedicated graphic EQ, so you'll want to like how they sound out of the box. They're tuned with a more laidback sound profile, and it's a bit smoother-sounding than the AirPods Pro 3, but not as bassy in the lows or as excited in the highs. Their ANC also blocks out most of the low rumbly noise from engines during a commute, making it easier to hear your music in loud environments. Even if the ANC isn't quite as good as the flagship's, it certainly hangs in there with the best noise cancelling earbuds. These offer versatile overall performance and will do well whether you're traveling, exercising at the gym, or plugging away at the office.
-
Best Mid-Range Earbuds For iPhone
Noise Isolation - Full Range7.4Continuous Battery Life7.5 hrsPeaks/Dips7.9Frequency Response Consistency7.8Controls7.7Comfort7.5App Support7.5Sports And Fitness8.0Travel7.6Office Work7.4Wireless Gaming (In Development)5.7Wired Gaming (In Development)5.6Audio Reproduction Accuracy7.6Noise Isolation7.5Microphone (In Development)7.0See all our test resultsFrequency Response Consistency7.8The Nothing Ear are the best mid-range Bluetooth earbuds for your iPhone we've tested. While they lack the H1/H2 chip and Apple's Spatial Audio implementation exclusive to Apple and Beats products, they boast a wealth of other appealing features. The Nothing buds have multi-device pairing, so you can still switch between your iPhone and any other Bluetooth device, though they don't have quick pairing with iOS. They're not too dissimilar from the Apple AirPods Pro 2, in design, fit, and comfort. Like the AirPods Pro 2, which have controls on the stems, the Nothing buds use pinch controls to reduce accidental misfires.
These earbuds' companion app offers loads of sound personalization, too. The hearing test can alter the tuning to suit your listening, and you have a choice between a simple graphic EQ and a comprehensive eight-band EQ. Besides that, their default sound is warm, with a good amount of rumble and boom, natural-sounding lead instruments, and clear vocals.
Their ANC is helpful for focusing or commuting, though it's not quite as powerful when handling mid-range chatter and ambient din as the top pick. The Nothing still filter out boomy construction noise and high-pitched sounds like shrieking subway brakes well. If you expect to wear them at the office or on a flight, they'll need fewer recharges than the AirPods Pro 2, thanks to a longer continuous battery life. Plus, their microphone system handles noise well, allowing callers to hear you, even in chaotic conditions.
-
Best Budget Earbuds For iPhone
Noise Isolation7.1Continuous Battery Life11 hrsPeaks/Dips7.9Frequency Response Consistency9.1Controls6.8Comfort7.5See all our test resultsApp Support5.0In the budget price range, the Beats Flex Wireless are the best wireless earbuds for iPhone we've tested. They have fewer features than other picks on this list, but still offer solid performance for their budget price. They come in a few colors to match your style and have a W1 chip that makes pairing with iOS devices easier. The W1 chip is an older processor than the H1 or H2 chips, so you can't benefit from features like 'Hey Siri' voice activation.
Their neck-cable design allows you to wear them around your neck when not in use. Unfortunately, their low price is reflected in their build, as some users have reported that their units stopped working within a year of purchasing them. As budget headphones, though, they're easier to replace if broken or lost. Their bass-heavy sound profile is well-suited for genres like EDM and hip-hop, thanks to their extra thump and boom. However, unlike our mid-range pick, they don't have an EQ to help you adjust their sound.
-
Best Open Earbuds For iPhone
Noise Isolation - Full Range6.9Continuous Battery Life4.5 hrsPeaks/Dips8.4Frequency Response Consistency8.4Controls6.8Comfort7.0App Support7.0Sports And Fitness7.7Travel7.4Office Work7.1Wireless Gaming (In Development)5.4Wired Gaming (In Development)5.3Audio Reproduction Accuracy7.4Noise Isolation7.3Microphone (In Development)6.7See all our test resultsFrequency Response Consistency8.4If you want the Apple ecosystem integration of the Apple AirPods Pro 3, but with an open design, consider the Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation. While they're slightly less feature-packed than our top pick, these AirPods have a less intrusive, one-size-fits-all approach that some users may prefer, while others might miss the security of swappable ear tips. This update to the Apple AirPods (3rd generation) also comes with ANC, which performs quite well considering their open-back form factor. Additionally, they're lightweight and sleek, and feature an H2 chip for seamless pairing with other devices in your Apple ecosystem.
Like our top pick and the Apple AirPods Pro 2, they have an Adaptive EQ that adjusts the buds' sound to your unique ear shape, which creates a relatively well-balanced sound profile, albeit with a veiled treble range. They don't have an EQ in their companion app, but you can adjust some basic audio settings if you have a compatible iOS device via the 'Accessibility' tab. They have an okay 4.5-hour continuous battery life with ANC, and their carrying case holds four additional charges. Unfortunately, the buds don't have volume controls, which is inconvenient. Still, they're worth a look if you're searching for the rare combination of ANC and an open design.
-
Best Sports Earbuds For iPhone
Noise Isolation - Full Range9.2Continuous Battery Life7.1 hrsPeaks/Dips7.7Frequency Response Consistency8.9Controls7.9Comfort8.0App Support6.5Sports And Fitness8.1Travel8.5Office Work7.7Wireless Gaming (In Development)5.8Wired Gaming (In Development)5.6Audio Reproduction Accuracy7.9Noise Isolation9.2Microphone (In Development)5.8See all our test resultsFrequency Response Consistency8.9The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 are the best wireless earbuds for iPhone, geared for sports, we've tested. Thanks to their ear hooks, they stay in place during runs or workouts at the gym. They're about as stable as the Apple AirPods Pro 3, but their stability is less dependent on how well they fit in your ears, thanks to the safeguard of the silicone-covered over-ear hooks. They're also comfortable, well-built, and rated IPX4 for resistance against water splashes, so they can survive splashes from rain if you're exercising outside. They last over seven hours on a single charge, and their carrying case holds three extra charges, which is handy in a pinch.
Compared to their predecessor, the Beats Powerbeats Pro Truly Wireless, they have a smaller and lighter form factor with additional features, but the hooks make them larger than most other true wireless earbuds. The second generation now have an ANC system that performs almost as well as that of our top pick. With their upgraded H2 chip, they also support Apple ecosystem device switching and Apple's Spatial Audio features, including head tracking. You can also monitor your workouts with their integrated heart monitor, which works with common fitness platforms like Open, Nike Run Club, and Peloton. That said, the AirPods Pro 3 use heart monitors too, so it's not an exclusive feature.
They have a fairly balanced sound profile that suits different kinds of audio with detailed treble. The bass and mid-ranges deliver audio that matches our target curve, but roll-off in the high-treble relative to our curve can close off the Powerbeats Pro 2's sound a bit. You can't adjust their sound profile since their companion app has no customization controls.
Read more about sport-oriented earbuds in our article on the best wireless earbuds for running and working out.
Notable Mentions
-
Beats Fit Pro True Wireless:
The Beats Fit Pro True Wireless offer many of the same iOS-related features as the Apple AirPods Pro 3, like Spatial Audio and an H1 chip for seamless pairing. However, their fit isn't as comfortable, and their ANC blocks significantly less ambient noise.
See our review -
JBL Vibe Buds True Wireless:
The JBL Vibe Buds True Wireless are wallet-friendly earbuds. While they lack the spatial audio features and H2 chip found in the Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, they deliver a more balanced sound with plenty of bass on tap. Also, they have a similarly comfortable fit that's slightly more stable, thanks to their in-ear seal.
See our review -
OnePlus Buds 3:
If you're looking for a pair of buds that offer some quality-of-life upgrades over the Beats Flex Wireless but still won't break the bank, consider the OnePlus Buds 3. While they lack the Beats' neckband design and W1 chip, they offer the same comfortable fit and improved stability. Plus, their ANC system does a solid job of isolating you from external distractions.
See our review -
Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC Truly Wireless:
The Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC are ANC-equipped buds that outlast the Nothing Ear. While they include an equalizer, their default bassy tuning is more polarizing, and their mic isn't as realistic.
See our review
Recent Updates
Oct 14, 2025:
This article was updated to include the Apple AirPods Pro 3 as the top pick, with the Technics EAH-AZ100 as an alternative. The Apple AirPods Pro 2 were moved to the upper mid-range pick, and the Nothing Ear were moved to the mid-range pick. The Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC have been added to the Notable Mentions. Tweaks to the text have been made for accuracy.
Jun 26, 2025:
We've replaced the Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 with the Technics EAH-AZ100 as our Best Noise-Cancelling pick, and updated the Best Sports pick from the Beats Powerbeats Pro Truly Wireless to the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2.
Feb 26, 2025:
While our main picks have remained the same, we've updated our Notable Mention section with the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 and removed the Anker Soundcore Liberty Air 2 due to stock issues.
Nov 28, 2024:
The Apple AirPods (3rd generation) Truly Wireless were removed as a pick due to their price exceeding the Nothing Ear Truly Wireless, and they've been succeeded by the Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation Truly Wireless, which are now our pick in a new category, 'Best Open Earbuds.' The Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 Truly Wireless replaced the Jabra Elite 10 True Wireless as our noise cancelling pick.
Aug 08, 2024: The Nothing Ear Truly Wireless have been added as the upper mid-range pick; the Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) Truly Wireless have been moved to the mid-range pick. The Jabra Elite 10 True Wireless have replaced the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Truly Wireless as the noise cancelling pick.
All Reviews
Our recommendations above are what we think are currently the best wireless headphones for iPhone for most people to buy. We factor in the price (cheaper headphones win over pricier ones if the difference isn't worth it), feedback from our visitors, and availability (no headphones that are difficult to find or almost out of stock everywhere).
If you would like to choose for yourself, here is the list of all our reviews for wireless earbuds and in-ear headphones, sorted by Quick Pair (iOS) support. Be careful not to get caught up in the details. There are no perfect headphones. Personal taste, preference, and listening habits will matter more in your selection.