Table of contents
Introduction
With so many wireless earbud options available to consumers in 2024, it’s an almost impossible task to sort through all of the models that are truly worth exploring and seeking out. That’s where we come in with our reviews and “Editors’ Choice” buying guides that offer a taste of what is available.
High-end headphone brands rarely put their best wireless earbuds on sale because they want to maximize the level of interest and profitability for those specific models. However, with so much competition we’re seeing a mix of new and older earbuds on sale for Black Friday this year.
Our list below only recommends what the eCoustics team have actually reviewed or auditioned and determined to be an incredible value especially when on sale. Check back often as this page may update frequently when new deals are added or expire.
Why Spend More on Wireless Earbuds?
Spending more on a true wireless earbuds (TWS) should get you better sound quality, but doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get more features or comfort. Nearly every TWS now comes with noise cancellation, and its effectiveness tends to improve as price increases.
Build quality, fit options, and ruggedness contribute to higher pricing. Paying a little more could provide conveniences such as tap or touch controls, a wireless charging case, auto-pause, a companion app for custom EQ settings, and longer battery life.
Best Earbud Deals Under $50
1MORE S31
In our comparison of 8 open-ear fit earbuds, the 1More S31 ranked best in overall value by offering a respectable balance of fit, comfort, security, usability, call quality, and sound quality. Pick them up in black or white.
Best Earbud Deals Under $100
Creative Aurvana Ace 2
New in 2024, the Creative Aurvana Ace 2 are the only wireless noise cancelling earbuds on our list to feature XMEMS tweeters which deliver a clearer and more defined top end than competitors. Plus get support for aptX Lossless and Bluetooth LE with compatible smartphones.
Best Earbud Deals Under $200
AirPods Pro 2
AirPods Pro 2 (2nd generation) are the world’s best selling wireless earbuds and are exceptionally convenient for Apple users. Although they were released in 2022, they’re still Apple’s top model with active noise cancellation and personalized spatial audio. Plus a recent firmware update enabled new hearing health features.
Sennheiser Momentum 4
Introduced in 2024, the Momentum 4 are Sennheiser’s top-of-the-line true wireless earbuds. They match Sony and Bose top models feature-for-feature, while offering more EQ customization options to fine tune a preferred sound signature. Available now at 30% off in black, copper or white.
Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2
The Pi7 S2 were Bowers & Wilkins’ top-of-the-line wireless ANC earbuds in 2023, but have been replaced by the Pi8 this year. Expect best-in-class resolution, clarity, detail retrieval, and a spacious sounding presentation for those that prioritize sonic performance over noise cancellation. Available colors include blue, white, and black.
Best Earbud Deals Under $300
Sony WF-1000XM5
Released in 2023, the WF-1000XM5 remain Sony’s top-of-the-line wireless ANC earbuds. It features best-in-class noise cancellation, 8 hour battery life and improved call quality in a super comfortable design. Available colors include black, silver, and smoky pink.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Introduced in 2023, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra wireless noise cancelling earbuds are an alternative to Sony’s XM5 for those that prefer a little more bass. Available in black, diamond, lunar blue, moonstone blue, or white smoke.
The Bottom Line
Most of these deals will expire after Black Friday so be sure to grab them while on sale. Keep in mind that fit and overall comfort will ultimately determine personal satisfaction. Everyone’s ears are different, so if an earbud can’t stay sealed in your ear, it won’t matter how good it’s supposed to sound because you’ll never hear its full capabilities. Consider earbuds that come with various ear tip sizes to have a better chance of getting a proper seal around your ear.
Also remember to check battery performance and case charging times, which vary considerably between models. When it comes to active noise cancellation (ANC), every brand offers a different approach and some are more effective than others. ANC can also have a negative impact on sound quality. So if sound quality is more important to you than noise cancelling it’s better to turn ANC off.
We highly recommend to seek out a demo of any wireless earbuds you are considering. If that’s not possible, find out the seller’s return policy along with the manufacturer’s warranty.
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