Bluetooth wireless earbuds are suitable for a wide range of uses: listening to music on public transport, following an online course, taking calls in a shared office, running or gaming on your mobile phone. The technical specifications, however, pile on the promises without always explaining what they actually mean in practice.
Before buying Bluetooth TWS earbuds, three common confusions keep cropping up.
Mentions of Bluetooth 5.3, 5.4 or 6.0 indicate a connection generation, but they aren't enough to predict the day-to-day experience. Stability also depends on the phone you're using, the distance and any obstacles. For Bluetooth earbuds for iPhone and Android, check compatibility with your operating system, the pairing process and the companion app.
TWS earbuds should also be easy to find if you lose them. An app that can locate your earbuds or let you customise the controls can be really handy. Volume adjustment is usually done from your phone or directly on the earbuds.
Take the time to compare each of these separately:
The Edifier X5 Pro, for example, claims up to 7 hours per charge and 31 hours with the case, while the Edifier X1 Lite boasts up to 26 hours in total. These figures are based on data provided by the manufacturers and may vary depending on settings and usage conditions.
For anyone looking for earbuds with long battery life, a 15-minute fast charge can prove more useful than an impressive figure achieved under unrealistic conditions.
An IP rating shouldn't be taken lightly:
These ratings don't replace the manufacturer's instructions. After a workout, dry your earbuds thoroughly before putting them back on charge. For waterproof sports earbuds, a secure fit in the ear is just as important: suitable ear tips, a hook or an open design can stop you from constantly having to push them back in.
Finally, having a built-in microphone doesn't guarantee your voice will be perfectly clear on the Tube or in strong wind. Check for background noise reduction and look at the stated usage limitations.
Why this choice suits this profile: A simple TWS solution for commuting, studying, calls and everyday listening, on both iPhone and Android.
Its spec sheet clearly states the total battery life, fast charging and IP54 rating. This lets you compare concrete data rather than a vague promise.
Bluetooth 5.4, up to 26 hours claimed, 15-minute charge for around 1.5 hours of listening and a low-latency mode of 60ms.
Why this choice suits this profile: It's aimed at travellers, professionals and audiophiles who want to personalise the sound and reduce some ambient noise.
The spec sheet distinguishes hybrid ANC from the call-focused algorithm: the two functions aren't presented as a single technology.
Bluetooth 5.3, customisation app, game mode, IP55 and up to 31 hours claimed with the case.
Why this choice suits this profile: Its open bone-conduction design is ideal for sport, and the built-in memory lets you listen to files without keeping your phone connected.
The intended use is clearly stated: sport, swimming and outdoor activities. However, you must dry the product and its charging port before recharging.
32GB internal memory, claimed IPX8 rating, built-in microphone and an open design that lets you stay more aware of your surroundings.
Why this choice suits this profile: A versatile model for calls, work, study and travel, compatible with iOS and Android.
Real-time translation requires a compatible app: these earbuds don't replace a standalone translator device.
Bluetooth 6.0, built-in microphone, IPX5, claimed range of 10 metres and battery life of around 4 hours per charge.
We've put together a comprehensive, real-time updated selection of products that meet these demanding criteria and European safety standards.
Open your phone's Bluetooth settings, place the earbuds in their case or activate their pairing mode, then select their name from the list of available devices. If the connection fails, remove an old pairing, recharge the earbuds and start the process again.
It depends on the battery, how often you use them, the number of charge cycles and how well you look after them. Store the earbuds in their case, keep them away from heat and never charge a device that's still wet. Built-in batteries will eventually lose capacity, so it's worth comparing the warranty, the accessories supplied and the availability of after-sales service.
Yes, ANC can reduce battery life compared to listening without this feature. To make charges last longer, only activate noise cancellation when it genuinely improves your comfort and, when the manufacturer provides the information, compare the stated battery life with and without ANC.