I test a lot of earbuds. Some are the best earbuds money can buy, some are... less so. But after reviewing all types of earbuds and headphones this year, I know what I look for in audio gear now.
Most earbuds — from $30 super-cheap models all the way up to $300 audiophile buds — are packed with features. These days, things like IP ratings, wear detection, and custom EQ are commonplace, regardless of price.
Even so, when I'm shopping for earbuds, I look for one thing, and one thing only: Seamless multipoint connectivity. Multipoint is non-negotiable — it makes life so much easier. If you're looking for some recommendations, I've got those, too.
Seamless multipoint connectivity
Multipoint is like good advertising: if it's good, it's invisible. If you're reading this and thinking, "Well, my earbuds don't have multipoint... they just work," then your earbuds probably have excellent multipoint.
If you're reading this with a big cartoon question mark over your head, let me explain. Multipoint is the feature that allows your earbuds to connect to two or more devices at once.
Imagine this: you're watching Reels on your phone, then you go back to your laptop and start up your Chill Lo-Fi Beats to Study To playlist on YouTube. Do your earbuds automatically connect to your laptop, or do your speakers suddenly start blaring in the library?
If the latter, then your earbuds don't have good multipoint — or they don't have multipoint at all.
Multipoint makes life a breeze. With my AirPods Pro 3, I don't have to switch between my phone and laptop in Bluetooth settings. I press play on whatever device I'm using, and my earbuds just know.
Some earbuds "have" multipoint, but do they really? The answer is no. I tested and loved the Skullcandy Method 360 ANC, but they struggled to switch between devices fast enough. Similarly, the EarFun Air 2 NC struggled when using LDAC as well as multipoint.
Thankfully, though, I've tested countless earbuds, so I know precisely which ones have reliable, seamless multipoint. And the best part? They're all discounted right now.
My top recommendations for earbuds with multipoint
I've personally reviewed every earbud on this list. I love the uber-cheap JLab Go Pods ANC, and I always recommend them if you want budget earbuds that don't feel like budget earbuds.
Next, I've got the slightly pricier CMF Buds Pro 2, which sound utterly divine thanks to the Dirac-tuned EQ.
If you can spend a bit more, go for the EarFun Air Pro 4+, which are genuine AirPods competitors for just $99.
Penultimately, I've got the Denon PerL Pro. These are audiophile-level-good but won't break the bank.
Last but not least, my favorite earbuds money can buy, and the best option for iPhone/Mac users. The AirPods Pro 3, of course.
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