If you use a smartphone, chances are you have already gone cable-free or are considering it when it comes to earbuds. If you are looking to upgrade or bite the bullet and buy a pair for the first time, here are some great options to consider across Android, iPhone, and Huawei phones. 

Sony WF1000XM5 

Often ranked the best ‘truly wireless noise cancelling earbuds,’ the Sony XF1000XM5 is suited for both Apple and Android users. It features high-resolution audio, Sony’s AI (Artificial Intelligence) noise reduction tools and adaptive sound controls for your surroundings. Its nifty Speak-to-Chat feature will pause audio while you speak. It promises 8 hours of battery life and 24 hours with its battery case, and a quick 3-minute charge yields 1 hour of listening time. It’s also water-resistant for splashes and sweat. 

Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) 

If you’re an iPhone user, the AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C connection is best suited as it offers better noise cancellation and sound quality. There have been upgrades to the transparency and spatial audio features and more ear tip sizes are in the box. It carries additional dust resistance and new audio experiences through iOS 17 like adaptive audio and conversation awareness. Its USB-C charging port supports reverse-wired charging from any iPhone 15. 

Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro 

Samsung users should check out the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro with features exclusive to Galaxy, unlike other Android devices. It offers 24-bit audio Hi-Fi sound quality and active noise cancellation (ANC). Its smart ‘voice detect’ feature will turn off ANC and turn on ambient sound. Built-in Dolby Atmos paired with 360-degree sound means the sound moves with you for a spatial experience. Battery life is 5 hours with ANC on, and 18 hours from its battery case. 

Huawei FreeBuds 3 Pro  

The FreeBuds 3 Pro will be heading to SA soon and offers dual-driver speakers, ANC 3.0 and is certified for high-res wireless audio. Other features include PureVoice with background noise cancellation, triple adaptive EQ, and dual device connections. It pairs with Huawei, Android, and iOS and comes with four ear tip sizes, and is dust and splash-resistant. The stalks offer touch controls, and it promises 31 hours of battery from its case, and 6.5 hours on a single charge. 

Anker Soundcore SportX10 

If you’re into fitness, check out the Anker Soundcore SportX10 for Android and iOS. It brings peace of mind with its rotating ear hooks, so you don’t have to worry about it falling off. It offers bass enhancement, sweat protection, and up to eight hours of battery life or 32 with the battery case. It has its own noise cancelling tech to enhance voice and block out background sounds, plus there are 22 EQ pre-sets on the app. It comes in a compact case that can be opened with one hand.  

Get a new phone to go with your new wireless earbuds. Check out the Vodacom shop for great deals on contract and prepaid devices.