True wireless earbuds are small in-ear headphones with no cable between the two buds, suited to commuters, gym-goers and anyone who takes calls on the move. Our range covers standard in-ear models, ear-hook sports earbuds and open-ear designs from brands such as JBL, Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi and Sony.
How to choose true wireless earbuds
Wearing style. In-ear earbuds are the most common type in our range and seal the ear canal, which helps with bass and blocks outside noise. Ear-hook models stay put during running and training, while open-ear and bone conduction designs leave your ears uncovered so you can hear traffic or colleagues.
Calls and noise control. Most earbuds here have built-in microphones, but call quality varies with the number of microphones and the noise reduction behind them. If you travel by train or work in an open office, look for active noise cancelling and a transparency mode. If you mainly listen at home, you can skip both.
Water and dust resistance. IPX4 protects against sweat and light splashes, which is enough for most workouts. IP54 and IP55 add protection against dust and stronger water jets, and IP57 or IP68 suit swimming-style exposure or very wet conditions. Check whether the rating covers the case as well, as it often applies to the buds only.
Battery life and charging case. Look at the playing time per charge and the total with the case, since the case recharges the buds several times. Wireless charging and fast charging are useful extras if you forget to plug in overnight.
Phone compatibility. Any phone with Bluetooth will connect, but some features work best within one ecosystem, such as quick pairing and automatic switching on Apple, Samsung and Huawei devices. Android users who care about audio quality should check which Bluetooth codecs the earbuds and phone both support.
True wireless earbud brands we carry
- JBL: the largest brand in our range, known for its Pure Bass sound and a broad choice of models from basic to sport-oriented.
- Apple: AirPods pair quickly with iPhone, iPad and Mac and switch between them automatically.
- Samsung: Galaxy Buds integrate closely with Galaxy phones and offer noise cancelling on higher models.
- Sony: well regarded for noise cancelling and detailed sound in its in-ear models.
- Huawei and Xiaomi: both make earbuds that combine noise cancelling and long battery life at accessible price points, and work with their own phone apps.
- Shokz: specialises in bone conduction and open-ear headphones that leave the ear canal free, a popular choice for running and cycling.
- Sudio: a Swedish brand known for minimalist design and a focus on everyday listening.
- JVC: a Japanese audio manufacturer offering earbuds from simple everyday pairs to sport models.
Also in our range: HAMA, SBOX and Havit.
True wireless earbuds FAQ
Are true wireless earbuds good for running and the gym?
Yes, provided they stay in place and resist sweat. Ear-hook and ear-clip designs hold best during fast movement, and an IPX4 rating or higher covers sweat and splashes. Open-ear models are worth considering if you run outdoors and want to hear traffic.
What does the IP rating on earbuds mean?
The IP code shows how well a device resists dust and water. The first digit covers dust and the second covers water, so IP54 means partial dust protection and splash resistance. When the first digit is replaced by an X, as in IPX4, dust protection has not been rated.
Do I need noise cancelling earbuds?
It depends on where you listen. Noise cancelling makes a clear difference on trains, planes and in busy offices by reducing constant low-frequency noise. In quiet settings, or when you need to stay aware of your surroundings, standard earbuds are enough.
Can I use true wireless earbuds with any phone?
Yes, any phone with Bluetooth can connect to them. Brand-specific extras, such as one-tap pairing or automatic device switching, usually work best with the same maker's phone. Basic music playback and calls work on every Bluetooth phone.
