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Can You Use Bluetooth Headphones on Xbox? Bose, Beats, AirPods and What Works (2026)

Why Bluetooth headphones don’t work on Xbox

Xbox consoles use Microsoft’s own wireless system, called Xbox Wireless, for controllers and headsets. Xbox Support says headsets connect either wirelessly with Xbox Wireless (Microsoft’s Xbox Wireless Headset) or to the controller with a 3.5 mm audio jack, and that the Xbox One “does not feature Bluetooth functionality” (Xbox Support). Microsoft’s page on Bluetooth for Xbox gaming only covers using Bluetooth “on Windows and mobile devices”, not on the console (Xbox Support). The Series X|S works the same way: there’s no menu for pairing Bluetooth headphones.

Some Xbox controllers have Bluetooth, but that’s for connecting the controller to a PC or phone, not for audio. And Microsoft’s December 2025 update added Bluetooth LE Audio to the Xbox Wireless Headset when it’s used with a Windows 11 PC, not Bluetooth headphones on the console (Xbox Wire).

5 ways to use your headphones with an Xbox anyway

Method	Game sound	Mic for chat	Delay	Best for
3.5 mm cable into the controller	Yes	Only if the cable has a mic (most headphone cables don’t)	None	Bose, Beats, Sony headphones that came with a cable
Xbox app party chat on your phone	No, stays on the TV	Yes, through the phone	n/a	Talking to friends while the game plays on the TV
Remote Play in the Xbox app	Yes, on your phone or tablet	Yes, through the phone	Streaming plus Bluetooth delay	Playing in another room, casual games
Your TV’s Bluetooth	Yes, if the TV supports Bluetooth headphones	No	Bluetooth delay, sometimes noticeable	Single-player games late at night
Bluetooth transmitter in the controller jack	Yes	Usually no	Added Bluetooth delay	Earbuds with no cable

Plug in a cable. Any headphones with a 3.5 mm cable work in the Xbox Wireless Controller’s headphone jack (Xbox Support), with no delay at all. The catch is chat: most headphone cables carry sound only, and the Xbox controller has no built-in mic, so your friends won’t hear you.
Use the Xbox app for chat. Start or join a party in the Xbox app on your phone with your Bluetooth headphones connected to the phone (Xbox Support). This pairs well with a cable: game sound through the controller, voice through the app.
Stream the game to your phone. Xbox Remote Play lets you play games installed on your console on an Android 6.0+ or iOS 15.1+ phone or tablet, or a Windows PC (Xbox). The sound then comes out of that device, so your Bluetooth headphones work, but the stream adds its own delay on top of Bluetooth’s.
Use the TV. Many smart TVs can send audio to Bluetooth headphones. That covers game sound, but not chat, and you get the usual Bluetooth delay.
Add a transmitter. A small Bluetooth transmitter that plugs into the controller’s 3.5 mm jack can send game sound to any Bluetooth headphones. Expect more delay and usually no mic. If you’d spend money on this, a headset made for Xbox is often the better buy.

Can you use Bose headphones on an Xbox?

Only with a cable. Bose over-ear headphones come with an analog cable (a 3.5 mm to 2.5 mm cable on the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 2nd Gen, per Bose’s specifications). Plug the 3.5 mm end into the controller and you get game sound with no delay, but don’t count on the headphones’ microphones over the cable, so use the Xbox app for chat. The second-gen QC Ultra Headphones also play audio over USB-C, but Bose pitches that for computers and phones, not consoles. Bose earbuds, such as the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, have no cable option, so on an Xbox they’re limited to the phone workarounds above. More in are Bose headphones good for gaming?

Check the Bose QC Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) on Amazon →

Can you use Beats on an Xbox?

Only some, and only wired. The Beats Studio Pro and Solo 4 have a 3.5 mm cable that plugs into the Xbox controller for game sound; Apple describes that cable for listening only, so there’s no mic (Apple). The Studio Pro even work on the cable with a flat battery. The newer Beats 360 have no headphone jack and their USB-C port is for charging only, and Beats earbuds such as the Powerbeats Pro 2 and Solo Buds are Bluetooth only, so none of those can play Xbox sound without a workaround. See are Beats good for gaming?

Check the Beats Studio Pro on Amazon →

AirPods, Sony and Galaxy Buds on Xbox

The same rule applies. AirPods, AirPods Pro, Galaxy Buds and Pixel Buds are Bluetooth only, so they need one of the phone workarounds. Over-ear models that ship with a 3.5 mm cable, such as Sony’s WH-1000XM line, work wired in the controller jack. The AirPods Max play audio over USB-C, but Apple describes that for iPhone, iPad and Mac, so on an Xbox they’re Bluetooth-only headphones too. Our AirPods gaming guide and Sony XM5 and XM6 gaming guide go into detail.

What about the ROG Xbox Ally?

The ROG Xbox Ally handhelds run Windows 11, so Bluetooth headphones pair with them like with any PC. The usual Windows catch applies: when a game or Discord turns on the headphones’ mic, Windows switches to a call-quality mode and game sound gets worse, so use the handheld’s own mic if you can. Our Bluetooth headphones for gaming guide explains the delay and mic trade-offs.

Headsets that do Xbox and Bluetooth at the same time

If you want one pair for the console and your phone, buy a headset that connects to the Xbox with its own wireless and to your phone over Bluetooth. You can play on the Xbox and take a call or listen to a podcast from your phone without switching.

Pick	Best for	Xbox connection	Phone connection	Buy
Xbox Wireless Headset (2024)	Simplest setup, official	Xbox Wireless, built in (no dongle)	Bluetooth, at the same time	Check price
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X Gen 2	Battery life, works on PlayStation and PC too	USB dongle	Bluetooth, mixed in at the same time	Check price
SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds (Xbox version)	Earbuds instead of a headset	2.4 GHz USB-C dongle	Bluetooth 5.3	Check price

Microsoft says its Xbox Wireless Headset pairs with the console like a controller and can connect over Bluetooth to another device at the same time, for example to play music from your phone while you game (Xbox Support). The Arctis Nova 7X Gen 2 uses a USB dongle that also works with PlayStation, PC and Switch, and mixes in your phone over Bluetooth. If you’d rather wear earbuds, the Xbox version of the Arctis GameBuds uses a 2.4 GHz dongle for the console and Bluetooth 5.3 for your phone (buy the Xbox version: the PlayStation one won’t connect wirelessly to an Xbox). Our best Xbox headsets guide compares more options.

Check the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X Gen 2 on Amazon →

Specs from the makers, side by side

Every figure below comes from the manufacturer’s own spec page, taken from our earbuds and headphones spec database. “Not stated” means the maker doesn’t publish it, not that the feature is missing.

Model	Battery	Weight	Codecs	Connection	Maker doesn’t state
Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset (2024)	ANC off: 20 h	320 g	SBC	Xbox Wireless + Bluetooth + USB-C; Bluetooth 5.3	latency figure
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)	ANC on: 30 (23 with Immersive Audio)	264 (0.583 lb)	Not stated	Bluetooth + wired (audio cable; USB-C); Bluetooth 5.4	codecs, multipoint, latency, water rating
Beats Studio Pro	ANC on: 24 h ANC off: 40 h	260 g	Not stated	Bluetooth (Class 1) + USB-C lossless audio	Bluetooth version, codecs, latency, multipoint, water rating
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X Wireless Gen 2	50+ h	Not stated	Not stated	2.4 GHz USB-C dongle + Bluetooth (simultaneous)	Bluetooth version, weight, latency (page truncated for mic/weight)
SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds	ANC off: 10 h with case: 40 (2.4 GHz, noise control off)	Not stated	Not stated	2.4 GHz USB-C dongle + Bluetooth; Bluetooth 5.3	weight, case weight, latency, battery with ANC on

Bar chart of battery per charge from the makers: Beats Studio Pro (headphones) 40 hours, Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset (2024) (headphones) 20 hours, SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds 10 hours — Battery per charge from the makers’ spec pages: the Beats Studio Pro (headphones) lasts longest at 40 hours. “Not stated” models are left out.

Our verdict

You can’t connect Bluetooth headphones to an Xbox directly. If your Bose, Beats or Sony headphones came with a 3.5 mm cable, plug them into the controller for lag-free game sound and use the Xbox app on your phone for chat. Bluetooth-only earbuds like AirPods, Galaxy Buds and Beats earbuds are stuck with phone workarounds such as Remote Play. If you play on Xbox often and want one wireless pair for the console and your phone, get a headset with both Xbox wireless and Bluetooth, such as the Xbox Wireless Headset.

Frequently asked questions

Can you connect Bluetooth headphones to an Xbox Series X|S?

No. Xbox consoles don’t support Bluetooth audio. Headsets connect with Microsoft’s Xbox Wireless, a USB dongle, or a 3.5 mm cable in the controller.

Can you use Bose headphones on an Xbox?

Only wired. Plug the Bose analog cable into the Xbox controller’s 3.5 mm jack for game sound. The headphones’ mic isn’t expected to work over the cable, so use the Xbox app on your phone for chat.

Can you use Beats on an Xbox?

The Beats Studio Pro and Solo 4 work with their 3.5 mm cable in the controller, for sound only. The Beats 360 and all Beats earbuds are Bluetooth only, so they can’t connect to an Xbox.

Can you use AirPods on an Xbox?

Not directly. You can connect AirPods to your phone and join party chat in the Xbox app, or stream your games to the phone with Xbox Remote Play, which adds delay.

Does the Xbox Wireless Headset have Bluetooth?

Yes. It connects to the console with Xbox Wireless and can connect to a phone or PC over Bluetooth at the same time, so you can hear both.

Earbuds and Headphones Spec Database: 111 Models’ Battery, Weight and Latency, From the Makers (2026)

Leave a Comment / Audio, Headphones, Wireless Earbuds

Spec sheets for earbuds and headphones are written to sell, and the numbers they leave out matter as much as the ones they print. This database puts 111 popular earbuds, headphones and gaming headsets from 43 brands side by side using only what each manufacturer publishes: battery life with and without noise cancelling, weight, water rating, Bluetooth version, codecs and latency, plus a column for what each maker doesn’t say. Only 4 of the 111 give a latency figure in milliseconds, and several battery claims depend on settings most people use.

How we put this together: every figure comes from the manufacturer’s own spec page, support article, press release or fact sheet, linked in each row. It is not based on hands-on testing by iTech Level, and we don’t fill gaps from reviews. Last updated October 23, 2026; see the methodology. Free to reuse with a link to this page (CC BY 4.0); download the data as CSV.

How to read it: battery figures are the maker’s own, for the earbuds or headphones alone and, where stated, with the charging case. “ANC” is active noise cancelling. “Not stated” means the maker’s spec page doesn’t give the figure; it doesn’t mean the feature is missing.

On this page: What makers leave out · The database · What the data shows · Reading battery claims · Methodology · FAQ

What makers leave out

Spec	Models that state it	Share
Battery life	89 of 111	80%
Weight	82 of 111	74%
Bluetooth version	73 of 111	66%
Water/dust rating (IP)	37 of 111	33%
Codecs	30 of 111	27%
Multipoint (two devices)	21 of 111	19%
A latency figure in milliseconds	4 of 111	4%

Counted over the 111 models below, from their official spec pages. Wired models count as stating their connection.

Bar chart: share of 111 earbuds and headphones whose maker states each spec, from battery life to latency in milliseconds — Share of the 111 models whose maker states each spec. Free to reuse with a link to this page (CC BY 4.0).

The database

Filter by type or brand, search for a model, or sort by battery life or weight. Battery sorting uses the longest single-charge figure the maker gives.

Type Brand Search Sort

Model	Type	Connection	Codecs	Battery	Weight	Water rating	Latency (maker)	Maker doesn’t state	Source
Apple AirPods 5	Earbuds	Bluetooth 5.3	Not stated	ANC on (hours): 4 (USB-C case) / 5 (wireless charging case) ANC off (hours): 6 / 7 With case (hours): 20 / 22 (ANC on)	4.3 g	IP57	Not stated	codecs, latency, multipoint	Apple Compare AirPods (preproduction battery tests, Jul–Aug 2026)
Apple AirPods Pro 3	Earbuds	Bluetooth 5.3	Not stated	ANC on (hours): 8 With case (hours): 24	5.55 g	IP57	Not stated	codecs, latency, multipoint	Apple AirPods Pro 3 tech specs
Beats Powerbeats Fit	Earbuds	Bluetooth, Apple H1	Not stated	ANC on (hours): 6 ANC off (hours): 7 With case (hours): 24 (ANC on) / 30 (ANC off)	5.78 g	IPX4 (buds and case)	Not stated	Bluetooth version, codecs, latency	Beats product + support pages
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2	Earbuds	Bluetooth (Class 1), Apple H2	Not stated	ANC off (hours): 10 With case (hours): 45	8.7 g	IPX4	Not stated	Bluetooth version, codecs, battery with ANC on, latency	Beats product page
Beats Solo Buds	Earbuds	Bluetooth (Class 1); Bluetooth 5.3	Not stated	Playback (hours): 18 (no battery in case)	5.7 g	Not stated	Not stated	codecs, latency, multipoint, water rating	Beats product page
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)	Earbuds	Bluetooth 5.3	Not stated	ANC on (hours): 6	7.3 (0.016 lb)	IPX4	Not stated	codecs, multipoint, latency, total with case	Bose product page, Technical Specifications
CMF by Nothing Buds 2 Plus	Earbuds	Bluetooth	LDAC, AAC	ANC on (hours): 7.5 (AAC) ANC off (hours): 14 (AAC) With case (hours): 33 (ANC on) / 61.5 (ANC off), AAC	Not stated	IP55 (earbuds; case not waterproof)	Not stated	Bluetooth version, weight, latency	Nothing Support Centre (CMF Buds 2 Plus articles)
CMF by Nothing Buds Pro 2	Earbuds	Bluetooth 5.3	LDAC, AAC, SBC (iOS: AAC only)	ANC on (hours): 4.3 (LDAC) ANC off (hours): 11 (AAC) / 6.5 (LDAC) With case (hours): 43 (AAC, ANC off) / 25 (LDAC, ANC off) / 16.6 (LDAC, ANC on)	Not stated	IP55 (earbuds; case not waterproof)	Not stated	weight, latency, multipoint	Nothing Support Centre (CMF Buds Pro 2 articles)
EarFun Air Pro 4	Earbuds	Bluetooth 5.4	aptX Adaptive (Lossless), LDAC, SBC, LC3	ANC on (hours): 7.5 ANC off (hours): 11 With case (hours): 35 (ANC on) / 52 (ANC off)	56 (page does not say what it covers)	IPX5	<50 ms (Ultra Low Latency Mode)	earbud weight	EarFun product page spec sheet
Google Pixel Buds 2a	Earbuds	Bluetooth 5.4	Not stated	ANC on (hours): 7 ANC off (hours): 10 With case (hours): 20 (ANC on) / 27 (ANC off)	4.7 g	IP54 (earbuds), IPX4 (case)	Not stated	codecs, multipoint, latency	Google Store tech specs
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2	Earbuds	Bluetooth 5.4	Not stated	ANC on (hours): 8 ANC off (hours): 12 With case (hours): 30 (ANC on) / 48 (ANC off)	4.7 g	IP54 (earbuds), IPX4 (case)	Not stated	codecs, multipoint, latency	Google Store tech specs
JBL Endurance Race 2	Earbuds	Bluetooth	Not stated	ANC on (hours): 10 ANC off (hours): 12 With case (hours): 48	Not stated	IP68 (case IPX2)	Not stated	Bluetooth version, codecs, earbud weight, latency	JBL product page + spec sheet
JBL Tour Pro 3	Earbuds	Bluetooth; case = Auracast/USB-C/AUX transmitter; Bluetooth 5.3	Not stated	ANC on (hours): 8 (spec sheet: 7) ANC off (hours): 11 With case (hours): 44	5.6 g	IP55 (JBL blog: IPX4)	Not stated	latency	JBL product page + spec sheet
JLab GO Sport+	Earbuds	Bluetooth	Not stated	Playback (hours): 9 With case (hours): 35	Not stated	IP55	Not stated	Bluetooth version, weight, multipoint, latency	JLab product page
JLab JBuds Mini	Earbuds	Bluetooth 5.3	SBC, AAC	Playback (hours): 5.5 With case (hours): 20	3.3 (launch post; spec table lists 6.6 g for both)	IP55	Not stated	latency	JLab product page + launch post
Nothing Ear (3)	Earbuds	Bluetooth	LDAC, AAC, SBC	ANC on (hours): 5.5 ANC off (hours): 10 With case (hours): 22 (ANC on) / 38 (ANC off)	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth version, weight, water rating, latency	Nothing Support Centre: Ear (3) battery + codecs
PlayStation PULSE Explore	Earbuds	PlayStation Link USB adapter + Bluetooth (simultaneous)	Not stated	Playback (hours): 5 With case (hours): 15 (5 + 10 from case)	Not stated	Not stated	"ultra-low latency" (no figure)	Bluetooth version, codecs, weight, water rating, latency figure	PlayStation product page
Razer Hammerhead V3 HyperSpeed	Earbuds	2.4 GHz HyperSpeed + Bluetooth; Bluetooth 6.0	Not stated	ANC off (hours): 10 With case (hours): 40 (10 + 30 from case)	Not stated	Not stated	"ultra-low latency" 2.4 GHz (no figure)	weight, latency figure	Razer product page
Razer Hammerhead V3 X HyperSpeed (Xbox / PlayStation editions)	Earbuds	2.4 GHz HyperSpeed (case is the receiver) + Bluetooth; Bluetooth 5.3	Not stated	Playback (hours): 10 (8 on Xbox Series X\|S / PS5) With case (hours): 35 (10 + 25 from case)	Not stated	IPX4	"ultra-low latency" 2.4 GHz (no figure)	weight, codecs, latency figure	Razer product pages (Xbox, PlayStation editions)
Samsung Galaxy Buds3 FE	Earbuds	Bluetooth 5.4	SSC, AAC, SBC	ANC on (hours): 6 ANC off (hours): 8.5 With case (hours): 24 (ANC on) / 30 (ANC off)	5 g	IP54 (earbuds)	Not stated	latency, multipoint	Samsung Newsroom launch release
Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro	Earbuds	Bluetooth 6.1	Not stated	ANC on (hours): 6 ANC off (hours): 7 With case (hours): 26 (ANC on) / 30 (ANC off)	Not stated	IP57	Not stated	weight, codecs, latency, multipoint	Samsung support: Buds4 Pro vs Buds3 Pro
Sony INZONE Buds (WF-G700N)	Earbuds	2.4 GHz USB-C dongle + Bluetooth LE Audio only (no classic Bluetooth); Bluetooth 5.3 (LE Audio only)	LC3	ANC on (hours): 11 (dongle) / 18 (LE Audio) ANC off (hours): 12 (dongle) / 24 (LE Audio) With case (hours): 24 (dongle, NC off) / 48 (LE Audio, NC off)	6.5 g	IPX4	less than 30 ms (USB-C dongle)	multipoint, case weight	Sony UK spec page + features page
Sony WF-1000XM6	Earbuds	Bluetooth 5.3	SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3	ANC on (hours): 8 ANC off (hours): 12	6.5 g	IPX4	Not stated	latency, total with case (not on spec page)	Sony UK spec page
Sony WF-C510	Earbuds	Bluetooth 5.3	SBC, AAC	Playback (hours): 11 (8 with ambient sound on)	4.6 g	IPX4	Not stated	latency, total with case	Sony UK spec page
Sony WF-C710N	Earbuds	Bluetooth 5.3	SBC, AAC	ANC on (hours): 8.5 ANC off (hours): 12	5.2 g	IPX4	Not stated	latency, total with case	Sony UK spec page
Soundcore Liberty 4 NC	Earbuds	Bluetooth	Not stated	ANC on (hours): 8 ANC off (hours): 10 With case (hours): 40 (ANC on) / 50 (ANC off)	5.2 (AU page: 4.6)	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth version, codecs, water rating, latency	Soundcore product page
Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro	Earbuds	Bluetooth 6.1	AAC, SBC, LDAC	ANC on (hours): 6.5 With case (hours): 28 (ANC on)	5.5 g	IP55	Not stated	latency	Soundcore product page
Soundcore P30i	Earbuds	Bluetooth	Not stated	ANC off (hours): 10 With case (hours): 45	Not stated	IP54	Not stated	Bluetooth version, codecs, weight, latency	Soundcore product page
Soundcore P31i	Earbuds	Bluetooth 6.1	SBC, AAC, LDAC	ANC on (hours): 8 ANC off (hours): 10 With case (hours): 40 (ANC on) / 50 (ANC off)	Not stated	IP55	Not stated	weight, latency	Soundcore product page + FAQ
Soundcore Space A40	Earbuds	Bluetooth	SBC, AAC, LDAC (Android 8+)	ANC off (hours): 10 (LDAC: 6 ANC off / 5 ANC on) With case (hours): 50	4.9 g	IPX4	Not stated	Bluetooth version, latency	Soundcore product page + support
SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds	Earbuds	2.4 GHz USB-C dongle + Bluetooth; Bluetooth 5.3	Not stated	ANC off (hours): 10 With case (hours): 40 (2.4 GHz, noise control off)	Not stated	IP55	Not stated	weight, case weight, latency, battery with ANC on	SteelSeries product page
ASUS ROG Kithara	Gaming headset	wired (4.4 mm / 3.5 mm / 6.3 mm plugs + USB-C to dual 3.5 mm)	Not stated	Not stated	420 g	Not stated	Not stated	—	ROG Kithara spec page
Audeze Maxwell 2	Gaming headset	2.4 GHz dongle + Bluetooth; Bluetooth 5.3	LC3, LC3plus, LDAC, AAC, SBC	Playback (hours): 80+ (at 80 dBA)	560 g	Not stated	Not stated	latency figure	Audeze product page + support guide
Corsair Virtuoso Pro	Gaming headset	wired	Not stated	Not stated	338 g	Not stated	Not stated	—	Corsair product page + spec sheet
Drop + EPOS PC38X	Gaming headset	wired 3.5 mm	Not stated	Not stated	253 (EPOS fact sheet; layout ambiguous)	Not stated	Not stated	—	EPOS fact sheet (EPOS is winding down its gaming headsets)
HyperX Cloud Alpha (wired)	Gaming headset	wired 3.5 mm	Not stated	Not stated	298 g	Not stated	Not stated	—	HyperX product page (RoW)
HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless	Gaming headset	2.4 GHz dongle	Not stated	Playback (hours): 300 (at 50% volume)	322 (335 with mic)	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth (none), latency	HyperX support: Cloud Alpha Wireless specifications
HyperX Cloud III (wired)	Gaming headset	wired 3.5 mm + USB (USB-C/USB-A)	Not stated	Not stated	308 (320 with mic)	Not stated	Not stated	—	HyperX product page
JBL Quantum 250	Gaming headset	wired 3.5 mm	Not stated	Not stated	282.6 g	Not stated	Not stated	—	JBL product page + spec sheet
JBL Quantum 650X	Gaming headset	2.4 GHz + Bluetooth	Not stated	Playback (hours): 45 (2.4 GHz) / 60 (Bluetooth); replaceable battery	331.5 g	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth version, latency	JBL spec sheet
JBL Quantum 910X Wireless (Xbox)	Gaming headset	2.4 GHz dongle + Bluetooth	Not stated	Playback (hours): 37 (dongle) / 42 (Bluetooth)	420 g	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth version, latency	JBL product page + spec sheet
JBL Quantum 950X	Gaming headset	2.4 GHz base station + Bluetooth; Bluetooth 5.3	Not stated	ANC off (hours): 25 (2.4 GHz) / 30 (Bluetooth) per battery; 2 swappable	398 g	Not stated	Not stated	latency	JBL product page + spec sheet
LucidSound LS500 / LS500X	Gaming headset	2.4 GHz wireless + Bluetooth	Not stated	Playback (hours): 50 (wireless) / 70 (Bluetooth)	246 (0.543 lb)	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth version, latency, codecs	LucidSound product listing
Microsoft Xbox Wireless Headset (2024)	Gaming headset	Xbox Wireless + Bluetooth + USB-C; Bluetooth 5.3	SBC	ANC off (hours): 20	320 g	Not stated	Not stated	latency figure	Xbox product page
PlayStation PULSE Elite	Gaming headset	PlayStation Link USB adapter + Bluetooth (simultaneous)	Not stated	Playback (hours): 30	Not stated	Not stated	"ultra-low latency" (no figure)	Bluetooth version, codecs, weight, latency figure	PlayStation product page
Razer BlackShark V3	Gaming headset	2.4 GHz HyperSpeed Wireless Gen-2 + Bluetooth	Not stated	Playback (hours): 70	270 g	Not stated	as low as 10 ms (2.4 GHz)	Bluetooth version, platforms for this model	Razer product page
Skullcandy Crusher PLYR 720	Gaming headset	2.4 GHz + Bluetooth	Not stated	Playback (hours): 48 (2.4 GHz) / 38 (2.4 GHz + Bluetooth)	354.2 (a collection page shows 274)	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth version, latency	Skullcandy product page
Skullcandy PLYR (wireless)	Gaming headset	2.4 GHz transmitter + Bluetooth; Bluetooth 5.2	Not stated	Playback (hours): 24	315 (other Skullcandy listings show 274)	Not stated	Not stated	latency, codecs	Skullcandy product page + support FAQ
Skullcandy SLYR Pro (wired)	Gaming headset	wired USB-C to USB-A + 3.5 mm	Not stated	Not stated	276 g	Not stated	Not stated	—	Skullcandy product page
Sony INZONE H5	Gaming headset	2.4 GHz dongle + wired	Not stated	Playback (hours): 28	260 g	Not stated	"low-latency" 2.4 GHz (no figure)	Bluetooth (none listed), latency figure	Sony UK spec page
Sony INZONE H6 Air	Gaming headset	wired 3.5 mm (4-pole)	Not stated	Not stated	199 (without cable and mic)	Not stated	Not stated	—	Sony UK spec page
Sony INZONE H9 II	Gaming headset	2.4 GHz dongle + Bluetooth + wired; Bluetooth 5.3	SBC, AAC, LC3	ANC off (hours): 30	260 (without mic)	Not stated	"ultra-low-latency" 2.4 GHz (no figure)	battery with NC on, latency figure, multipoint	Sony UK spec page
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1	Gaming headset	wired 3.5 mm	Not stated	Not stated	253 (an image on the same page says 236)	Not stated	Not stated	—	SteelSeries product page
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 Wireless	Gaming headset	2.4 GHz dongle + Bluetooth; Bluetooth 5.3	Not stated	Playback (hours): 60	265 g	Not stated	Not stated	latency, quick charge, Xbox	SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 product page
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5X Wireless	Gaming headset	2.4 GHz USB-C dongle + Bluetooth	Not stated	Playback (hours): 60	265 g	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth version, latency	SteelSeries product page + press release
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless Gen 2	Gaming headset	2.4 GHz + Bluetooth (simultaneous)	Not stated	Playback (hours): 50+	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth version, weight, latency (page truncated)	SteelSeries product page
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X Wireless Gen 2	Gaming headset	2.4 GHz USB-C dongle + Bluetooth (simultaneous)	Not stated	Playback (hours): 50+	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth version, weight, latency (page truncated for mic/weight)	SteelSeries product page
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Omni	Gaming headset	2.4 GHz + Bluetooth (simultaneous, mixes 4 sources); Bluetooth 5.3	SBC, LC3	ANC on (hours): 19 per battery (2.4 GHz + BT) ANC off (hours): 30 per battery (2.4 GHz) / 50 (Bluetooth); 2 hot-swap batteries	339 (GameHub 169)	Not stated	Not stated	latency	SteelSeries product page, Specifications
Turtle Beach Atlas Air	Gaming headset	2.4 GHz + Bluetooth + 3.5 mm; Bluetooth 5.2	Not stated	Playback (hours): 50	301 (with mic)	Not stated	Not stated	latency	Turtle Beach product page
Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 3	Gaming headset	2.4 GHz + Bluetooth (QuickSwitch); Bluetooth 5.2	SBC, AAC	Playback (hours): 80	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	weight, latency	Turtle Beach product + support pages
Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 3	Gaming headset	2.4 GHz + Bluetooth (simultaneous); Bluetooth 5.2	Not stated	Playback (hours): 80	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	weight, latency, codecs	Turtle Beach product page
EarFun K4NC	Kids headphones	Bluetooth 5.4	Not stated	ANC off (hours): 120 (conditions not stated)	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	weight, battery with ANC on	EarFun product page
JBL Junior 470NC	Kids headphones	Bluetooth	Not stated	ANC on (hours): 28 (spec sheet PDF: 34) ANC off (hours): 50	196 g	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth version, codecs	JBL product page + spec sheet
JLab JBuddies Pro Wireless	Kids headphones	Bluetooth + 3.5 mm (share port); Bluetooth 5	SBC, AAC	Playback (hours): 35	165 g	Not stated	Not stated	—	JLab product page + tech specs
Puro Sound Labs BT2200-Plus	Kids headphones	Bluetooth	Not stated	Playback (hours): 20	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth version, weight	Puro product page + FAQ
Jabra Evolve2 65 Flex	Office headsets	Bluetooth 5.2	Not stated	ANC on (hours): 21 ANC off (hours): 32	136 g	Not stated	Not stated	codecs, latency	Jabra tech specs (Rev C)
Logitech Zone Vibe 100	Office headsets	Bluetooth	Not stated	Playback (hours): 20	185 g	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth version, codecs	Logitech product page + setup guide
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds (2nd Gen)	Open-ear / bone conduction	Bluetooth 5.4	Not stated	Playback (hours): 9 (5 with Immersive Audio) With case (hours): 28.5 (9 + 19.5 from case)	5.9 (0.013 lb)	IPX4	Not stated	codecs, multipoint, latency	Bose support: product specifications
Creative Outlier Free Pro	Open-ear / bone conduction	Bluetooth + 8 GB MP3 player; Bluetooth 5.3	Not stated	Playback (hours): 10	31.5 g	IPX8 (1.5 m fresh water, 40 min)	Not stated	latency, multipoint	Creative US product page
EarFun Clip 2	Open-ear / bone conduction	Bluetooth 6.0	LDAC	Playback (hours): 11 (6 with LDAC) With case (hours): 40 (22 with LDAC)	5.5 (press release: 5.7)	IP55	Not stated	latency	EarFun product page
Shokz OpenDots 2	Open-ear / bone conduction	Bluetooth 6.1	Not stated	Playback (hours): 10 With case (hours): 40	6.4 g	IP57 (earbuds), IP54 (case)	Not stated	codecs, latency, multipoint	Shokz product page + compare table
Shokz OpenRun	Open-ear / bone conduction	Bluetooth	Not stated	Playback (hours): 8	26 g	IP67 (not for swimming)	Not stated	Bluetooth version, multipoint, latency	Shokz UK product page
Shokz OpenRun Pro 2	Open-ear / bone conduction	Bluetooth 5.3	Not stated	Playback (hours): 12	30.3 (Mini 30)	IP55	Not stated	multipoint, latency, codecs	Shokz spec sheet S820/S821
Shokz OpenSwim Pro	Open-ear / bone conduction	Bluetooth + 32 GB MP3 player	Not stated	Playback (hours): 9 (Bluetooth) / 6 (MP3)	27.3 g	IP68 (2 m for 2 h)	Not stated	Bluetooth version, latency	Shokz product page
Sony LinkBuds Clip	Open-ear / bone conduction	Bluetooth 5.3	SBC, AAC	Playback (hours): 9	6.4 g	IPX4	Not stated	latency, total with case	Sony UK spec page
Soundcore AeroClip	Open-ear / bone conduction	Bluetooth	Not stated	Playback (hours): 8 With case (hours): 32	6.0 g	IP55	Not stated	Bluetooth version, codecs, latency	Soundcore product page + FAQ
Apple AirPods Max 2	Over-ear headphones	Bluetooth + USB-C; Bluetooth 5.3	Not stated	ANC on (hours): 20	386.2 g	Not stated	Not stated	codecs, latency, multipoint, water rating	Apple Compare AirPods
Beats Beats 360	Over-ear headphones	Bluetooth + USB-C	Not stated	ANC on (hours): 32 (preproduction tests)	294.5 g	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth version, codecs, latency	Beats product page + press release
Beats Studio Pro	Over-ear headphones	Bluetooth (Class 1) + USB-C lossless audio	Not stated	ANC on (hours): 24 ANC off (hours): 40	260 g	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth version, codecs, latency, multipoint, water rating	Beats product page
Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO (80 ohm)	Over-ear headphones	wired (3 m cable)	Not stated	Not stated	270 without cable g	Not stated	Not stated	—	beyerdynamic product page
Bose QuietComfort Headphones	Over-ear headphones	Bluetooth	Not stated	ANC on (hours): 24	236 (0.520 lb)	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth version, codecs, latency	Bose product page
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)	Over-ear headphones	Bluetooth + wired (audio cable; USB-C); Bluetooth 5.4	Not stated	ANC on (hours): 30 (23 with Immersive Audio)	264 (0.583 lb)	Not stated	Not stated	codecs, multipoint, latency, water rating	Bose product page, Technical Specifications
EarFun Wave Pro	Over-ear headphones	Bluetooth + 3.5 mm	LDAC, SBC	ANC on (hours): 55 ANC off (hours): 80	268 g	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth version, latency	EarFun product page + support
Edifier W830NB	Over-ear headphones	Bluetooth 5.4	LDAC, AAC, SBC (US page: LDAC, SBC)	ANC on (hours): 54 ANC off (hours): 94	267 g	Not stated	Not stated	latency, water rating	Edifier product page
JLab JBuds Lux ANC	Over-ear headphones	Bluetooth 5.4	SBC, AAC	ANC on (hours): 40 ANC off (hours): 70	235 (some colour listings: 252)	Not stated	Not stated	latency, water rating	JLab product page
OneOdio Focus A6	Over-ear headphones	Bluetooth 6.0	LDAC	ANC off (hours): 75 (conditions not stated)	240 g	Not stated	Not stated	battery with ANC on, latency	OneOdio product page
Sennheiser HD 550	Over-ear headphones	wired	Not stated	Not stated	237 g	Not stated	Not stated	—	Sennheiser support: HD 550 specifications
Sennheiser HD 560S	Over-ear headphones	wired	Not stated	Not stated	240 without cable (another page: 280)	Not stated	Not stated	—	Sennheiser product page
Sennheiser MOMENTUM 5 Wireless	Over-ear headphones	Bluetooth + USB-C/wired; Bluetooth 5.4 (6.0 by firmware update)	SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, aptX Lossless	ANC on (hours): 57	290 g	none	Not stated	latency, multipoint	Sennheiser support: MOMENTUM 5 Wireless specifications
Skullcandy Crusher 720	Over-ear headphones	Bluetooth	Not stated	ANC on (hours): 40 (sale page) ANC off (hours): 65 (product page; sale page 60)	362.8 g	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth version, latency	Skullcandy product page
Sony WH-1000XM6	Over-ear headphones	Bluetooth + 3.5 mm wired; Bluetooth 5.3	SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3	ANC on (hours): 30 ANC off (hours): 40	254 g	Not stated	Not stated	latency, water rating	Sony UK spec page
Sony WH-CH720N	Over-ear headphones	Bluetooth + 3.5 mm wired; Bluetooth 5.2	SBC, AAC	ANC on (hours): 35 ANC off (hours): 50	192 g	Not stated	Not stated	multipoint, latency, water rating	Sony UK spec page
Soundcore Life Q30	Over-ear headphones	Bluetooth + 3.5 mm	SBC, AAC	ANC on (hours): 40 ANC off (hours): 60	260 g	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth version (varies by listing), latency	Soundcore product page
Soundcore Space 2	Over-ear headphones	Bluetooth 6.1	SBC, AAC, LDAC	ANC on (hours): 50 (45 with wear detection; 40 with LDAC) ANC off (hours): 70 (65 with wear detection)	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	weight, multipoint, mics, latency, water rating (support spec article)	Soundcore support: Space 2 specs
Ozlo Sleepbuds 2	Sleep earbuds	Bluetooth	Not stated	Playback (hours): 14 (at 50% volume)	1.6 (without tip)	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth version, water rating	Ozlo product page, Tech Specs
Soundcore Sleep A20	Sleep earbuds	Bluetooth 5.3	Not stated	Playback (hours): 14 (sleep mode) / 10 (Bluetooth) With case (hours): 80 (sleep) / 55 (Bluetooth)	3.1 g	IPX4	Not stated	codecs	Soundcore product page
Avantree HT5009 Plus	TV headphones	Bluetooth transmitter + charging dock	Not stated	Playback (hours): 50	Not stated	Not stated	<68 ms (spec sheet; comparison table says ~50 ms)	weight	Avantree product page
Sennheiser RS 120-W	TV headphones	RF transmitter base	Not stated	Playback (hours): 20	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	weight, latency	Sennheiser launch release
TV Ears 5.0 Digital	TV headphones	infrared transmitter (line of sight)	Not stated	Playback (hours): about 4 per charge	57 (2 oz)	Not stated	Not stated	range	TV Ears product page
Timekettle M3	Translation earbuds	Bluetooth	Not stated	ANC on (hours): 6 (music) ANC off (hours): 7 (music) / 7.5 per charge With case (hours): 25	5 g	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth version, water rating	Timekettle M3 product page + user manual
Timekettle W4 Pro	Translation earbuds	Bluetooth	Not stated	Playback (hours): 6 (translation) / 12 (music) With case (hours): 10 translation / 18 music (2-pack listing: 20 / 36)	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth version, weight (199 g figure unclear), water rating	Timekettle product page
1MORE Triple Driver (wired)	Wired earbuds / IEMs	wired 3.5 mm, in-line mic	Not stated	Not stated	18 g	Not stated	Not stated	—	1MORE US product page
Apple EarPods (USB-C)	Wired earbuds / IEMs	wired USB-C	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	weight, water rating	Apple product page
House of Marley Smile Jamaica USB-C	Wired earbuds / IEMs	wired USB-C, in-line mic	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	weight, impedance	House of Marley product page
HyperX Cloud Earbuds II	Wired earbuds / IEMs	wired 3.5 mm (TRRS)	Not stated	Not stated	20 g	Not stated	Not stated	—	HyperX product page + press release
Moondrop CHU II	Wired earbuds / IEMs	wired 3.5 mm, 0.78 mm 2-pin	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	weight, mic (none listed)	Moondrop product page
Oriveti bleqk Dynabird	Wired earbuds / IEMs	wired, 0.78 mm 2-pin	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	weight	Oriveti product page
Shure SE215	Wired earbuds / IEMs	wired (detachable cable)	Not stated	Not stated	20.8 g	Not stated	Not stated	—	Shure SE215 user guide
Sony INZONE E9	Wired earbuds / IEMs	wired 3.5 mm	Not stated	Not stated	4.7 (without cable)	Not stated	Not stated	—	Sony UK spec page
Truthear GATE	Wired earbuds / IEMs	wired (mic cable option)	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	weight, mic specs	Truthear product page
Truthear PURE	Wired earbuds / IEMs	wired	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	Not stated	weight	Truthear product page

Download the full database (CSV): free to reuse with a link to this page (CC BY 4.0).

What the data shows

Latency is the spec almost nobody prints. Only 4 of 111 models give a number: Sony INZONE Buds (WF-G700N) (less than 30 ms (USB-C dongle)); EarFun Air Pro 4 (<50 ms (Ultra Low Latency Mode)); Razer BlackShark V3 (as low as 10 ms (2.4 GHz)); Avantree HT5009 Plus (<68 ms (spec sheet; comparison table says ~50 ms)). PlayStation’s PULSE Explore and PULSE Elite, Razer’s Hammerhead V3 X and Sony’s INZONE H9 II and H5 promise low latency over their USB transceivers without a figure, and Apple, Google, Samsung and Bose don’t mention it at all. For gaming, a model with its own USB transceiver is the safer bet than one that only says “game mode”.
Sony INZONE Buds have no regular Bluetooth. Sony lists Bluetooth 5.3 “LE Audio only. Regular Bluetooth is not supported”, so they connect through their USB-C transceiver or to phones and consoles with LE Audio. Battery life also depends on the link: 11 hours with noise cancelling on the transceiver, 18 hours on LE Audio.
Codecs change battery life a lot. Nothing rates the CMF Buds Pro 2 at 11 hours with AAC but 6.5 hours with LDAC (noise cancelling off). Soundcore rates the Space 2 at 50 hours with noise cancelling, 45 with wear detection on, and 40 with LDAC.
Some makers contradict themselves or skip the basics. Samsung’s comparison page gives no weight for the Galaxy Buds4 Pro. SteelSeries lists the Arctis Nova 1 at 253 g in the text and 236 g in an image on the same page, and Skullcandy’s PLYR appears as 315 g and 274 g on different listings. We show the figures as published and flag the conflict.
Weight spreads wider than you’d think. The lightest in-ear models are sleep earbuds: Ozlo Sleepbuds 2 at 1.6 g each (without the tip) and Soundcore Sleep A20 at 3.1 g. Among everyday earbuds, JLab’s JBuds Mini (3.3 g in JLab’s launch post), AirPods 5 (4.3 g) and Sony’s WF-C510 (4.6 g) are the lightest, while Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) are about 7.3 g. Wireless gaming headsets here run from 246 g (LucidSound LS500) to 420 g (JBL Quantum 910X), with the Audeze Maxwell 2 an outlier at 560 g; among wired models, Sony’s open-back INZONE H6 Air is 199 g and the planar ASUS ROG Kithara 420 g.

How to read battery claims

Check which mode the number is for. Many makers lead with the noise-cancelling-off figure. Sony’s WH-1000XM6 is 30 hours with noise cancelling and 40 without.
“With case” is not one charge. Earbuds in our table run for 5 to 14 hours per charge (Beats Solo Buds reach 18, but their case has no battery); totals of 10 to 80 hours include recharges from the case (the 80 is Soundcore’s Sleep A20 in sleep mode).
Codec and features matter. LDAC, spatial audio and wear detection shorten playback, and makers usually test at 50% volume.
Quick charge is the useful number for travel. Claims range from 5 minutes for 1 hour (Beats Solo Buds and Powerbeats Fit, Sony INZONE Buds) to 10 minutes for 10 hours (EarFun Wave Pro and the K4NC kids’ headphones) and 15 minutes for 10 hours (Edifier W830NB). Over-ear headphones, with bigger batteries, gain the most from a short charge.

Methodology and update log

Which models: the earbuds, headphones and headsets our buying guides recommend, so the database covers the models people are actually comparing. Kids’ headphones include the maker’s volume limit, and TV headphones their stated range (in the CSV).
Sources: manufacturer spec pages (for Sony, the official UK spec pages, which list the same hardware as the US models), support articles, press releases and fact sheets. Each row links to its source. Retail listings and reviews are not used.
“Not stated”: we only record what the maker publishes. Where a feature exists but the spec page doesn’t say so, it stays blank and is listed under “Maker doesn’t state”.
Conversions: Bose gives weights in pounds; we convert to grams and show the original. Where a page gives two figures, we show both.
October 23, 2026: first version: 44 models from 22 brands.
October 23, 2026 (update): added the single-guide picks (kids, TV, sleep, open-ear, translation and budget models), for 86 models from 33 brands; new volume-limit and range columns in the CSV.
October 23, 2026 (second update): added the picks from our upcoming guides (wired earbuds and IEMs, open-back and office headsets, JBL, Skullcandy and Sennheiser gaming headsets, Auracast earbuds), for 111 models from 43 brands; new impedance column in the CSV.

Spotted an error or a missing model? Let us know, ideally with a link to the manufacturer’s spec page.

Frequently asked questions

Which earbuds and headphones publish their latency?

Very few. Of the 111 models in our database, only 4 give a figure in milliseconds: Sony INZONE Buds (WF-G700N) (less than 30 ms (USB-C dongle)); EarFun Air Pro 4 (<50 ms (Ultra Low Latency Mode)); Razer BlackShark V3 (as low as 10 ms (2.4 GHz)); Avantree HT5009 Plus (<68 ms (spec sheet; comparison table says ~50 ms)). PlayStation's PULSE models, Razer's Hammerhead V3 X and Sony's INZONE H9 II and H5 promise low latency without a number, and Apple, Google, Samsung and Bose don't mention latency on their spec pages.

Do Sony INZONE Buds work with regular Bluetooth?

No. Sony's spec page lists Bluetooth 5.3 for LE Audio only and says regular (classic) Bluetooth isn't supported. They connect through their USB-C transceiver or to devices with Bluetooth LE Audio.

Why is my battery life shorter than the box says?

Makers test under specific conditions. Soundcore rates the Space 2 at 50 hours with noise cancelling, but 45 hours with wear detection on and 40 hours using LDAC. Nothing rates the CMF Buds Pro 2 at 11 hours with AAC and 6.5 hours with LDAC (noise cancelling off). Higher-quality codecs, noise cancelling, spatial audio and volume all cut battery life.

Which gaming headsets have the longest battery life?

In our database, the HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless leads by far at up to 300 hours (HyperX tested at 50% volume). Next come the Audeze Maxwell 2 (80+ hours at 80 dBA), the Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 3 and Stealth 700 Gen 3 (80 hours), the Razer BlackShark V3 (70 hours) and the LucidSound LS500 (70 hours over Bluetooth, 50 on its wireless dongle). The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Omni uses two swappable batteries instead.

Can I use this data on my site?

Yes. The database is free to reuse under CC BY 4.0: link to this page as the source. You can download it as a CSV file.

Best Headphones for Flying (2026): Noise Cancelling for Long Flights

What makes headphones good for flying

Strong low-frequency noise cancelling. Engine drone is a low, constant rumble, exactly what active noise cancelling handles best.
Comfort for hours, with soft pads and light weight.
Battery for the whole trip, including delays and the flight home.
A 3.5 mm cable for the seat-back entertainment system, which usually isn’t Bluetooth.
A folding design and case that fit in your carry-on.

Best headphones for flying compared

Headphones	Best for	Battery (ANC on)	Seat-back cable	Buy
Sony WH-1000XM6	Best overall	Up to 30 hr	3.5 mm	Check price
Bose QC Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)	Most comfortable	Up to 30 hr	2.5 to 3.5 mm included	Check price
Sennheiser Momentum 5	Longest battery	Up to 57 hr	See Sennheiser	Check price
Soundcore Space 2	Best budget	53+ hr (SoundGuys test)	3.5 mm	Check price
Beats Studio Pro	Works wired with a flat battery	Up to 24 hr	3.5 mm, no battery needed	Check price

The best headphones for flying in 2026

1. Sony WH-1000XM6: best overall

Sony’s flagship has the most complete set of travel features: noise cancelling driven by the QN3 processor and 12 microphones, up to 30 hours with it on, a folding design that the XM5 dropped, and a 3.5 mm cable for in-flight entertainment, with no lag when wired. They usually sell for $450–$500. Our best noise-cancelling headphones guide covers them in full. Good to know: SoundGuys made comfort its biggest gripe, saying the pads are relatively thin, so if you wear glasses or fly long-haul, consider the Bose (SoundGuys).

Check the Sony WH-1000XM6 on Amazon →

2. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen): most comfortable

On a ten-hour flight, comfort matters as much as noise cancelling, and that’s where Bose leads. SoundGuys calls the second-gen QC Ultra “a rather comfortable set of over-ear, ANC headphones” with ample padding, and notes the plastic build makes them “mercifully light” (SoundGuys). Bose rates them at up to 30 hours with noise cancelling, and they come with a 3.5 mm to 2.5 mm cable for the seat-back screen plus a USB-C cable for lossless audio from a laptop (Bose).

Check the Bose QC Ultra (2nd Gen) on Amazon →

3. Sennheiser Momentum 5: longest battery life

For long trips with several flights and no time to charge, the Momentum 5 are rated for up to 57 hours, fold for travel, and have a battery you can replace yourself when it wears out (Sennheiser). Good to know: their noise cancelling isn’t quite as strong as the Sony or Bose, so frequent long-haul flyers who prioritize quiet should pick one of those.

Check the Sennheiser Momentum 5 on Amazon →

4. Soundcore Space 2: best budget pick

The Space 2 are the best-value flying headphones. In SoundGuys’ testing they lasted 53 hours 21 minutes with noise cancelling on and blocked an average of 84% of outside noise, doing especially well with low-frequency engine rumble. They swivel flat and fold, weigh 261 g with memory foam pads, and accept a 3.5 mm cable (SoundGuys). Good to know: SoundGuys found the out-of-the-box sound their biggest weakness (use the app’s EQ), and they come with a cloth pouch rather than a hard case.

Check the Soundcore Space 2 on Amazon →

Check the Space 2 at Soundcore.com ($129.99) →

Soundcore.com code AFSC20: an extra 20% off full-price items (valid through Dec 31, 2026).

5. Beats Studio Pro: if you forget to charge

The Studio Pro have a feature that’s handy on planes: plugged in with the included 3.5 mm cable, they play without any battery power (Apple), so a flat battery doesn’t end your movie. They last up to 24 hours with noise cancelling, pair with one tap on iPhone and Android, and they’ve had a price cut. Good to know: their noise cancelling trails Sony and Bose. See our Beats Studio Pro page.

Check the Beats Studio Pro on Amazon →

Tips for using headphones on a plane

Charge before you leave, and pack a USB-C cable in your carry-on; many seats have USB power.
Bring the 3.5 mm cable. Some planes still use two-pin jacks, so a small airline adapter is worth keeping in the case.
Prefer AirPods or earbuds? See our best noise-cancelling earbuds for smaller options.

Specs from the makers, side by side

Model	Battery	Weight	Codecs	Connection	Maker doesn’t state
Sony WH-1000XM6	ANC on: 30 h ANC off: 40 h	254 g	SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3	Bluetooth + 3.5 mm wired; Bluetooth 5.3	latency, water rating
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)	ANC on: 30 (23 with Immersive Audio)	264 (0.583 lb)	Not stated	Bluetooth + wired (audio cable; USB-C); Bluetooth 5.4	codecs, multipoint, latency, water rating
Soundcore Space 2	ANC on: 50 (45 with wear detection; 40 with LDAC) ANC off: 70 (65 with wear detection)	Not stated	SBC, AAC, LDAC	Bluetooth 6.1	weight, multipoint, mics, latency, water rating (support spec article)
Sennheiser MOMENTUM 5 Wireless	ANC on: 57 h	290 g	SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, aptX Lossless	Bluetooth + USB-C/wired; Bluetooth 5.4 (6.0 by firmware update)	latency, multipoint
Beats Studio Pro	ANC on: 24 h ANC off: 40 h	260 g	Not stated	Bluetooth (Class 1) + USB-C lossless audio	Bluetooth version, codecs, latency, multipoint, water rating

Our verdict

The Sony WH-1000XM6 are the best headphones for flying, with excellent noise cancelling, a folding design and a 3.5 mm cable. Choose the Bose QC Ultra (2nd Gen) if comfort on long-haul flights is your priority, the Sennheiser Momentum 5 for the longest battery, the Soundcore Space 2 to save money, and the Beats Studio Pro if you want headphones that still work wired when the battery dies.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best headphones for flying?

The Sony WH-1000XM6: strong noise cancelling from 12 microphones, up to 30 hours with it on, a folding design and a 3.5 mm cable. The Bose QC Ultra (2nd Gen) are the most comfortable for long flights.

Can you use Bluetooth headphones on a plane?

Yes, for your own phone, tablet or laptop, once the airline allows devices in flight mode with Bluetooth. Seat-back screens usually need a 3.5 mm cable instead.

Do noise-cancelling headphones work well on planes?

Yes. Engine noise is a low, steady rumble, which active noise cancelling handles best. SoundGuys found the budget Soundcore Space 2 especially good with low-frequency noise.

What are the best budget headphones for flying?

The Soundcore Space 2 ($129.99): they lasted over 53 hours with noise cancelling in SoundGuys’ test, fold flat and take a 3.5 mm cable.

Which headphones work when the battery is dead?

The Beats Studio Pro play over the 3.5 mm cable without any battery power, according to Apple. Some noise-cancelling headphones need some charge even when wired.

Best Translation Earbuds (2026): AirPods, Galaxy Buds, Pixel Buds and Timekettle

Leave a Comment / Audio, Wireless Earbuds

White wireless earbuds on a wooden table

The best translation earbuds are the ones that match your phone. On an iPhone, the AirPods Pro 3 do Live Translation on the iPhone itself, with no internet once the languages are downloaded. On a Samsung phone, the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro translate face-to-face and on phone calls in 22 languages. For business meetings, calls and the most languages, a dedicated translator such as the Timekettle W4 Pro (52 languages) does more. Before you buy anything, though, note that Google Translate now does live translation through any headphones.

Check the AirPods Pro 3 on Amazon →

How we put this together: this guide is based on Apple’s, Google’s, Samsung’s and Timekettle’s own documentation and specifications. It is not based on hands-on testing by iTech Level, and we don’t rate translation accuracy. Prices are list prices at the time of writing. See how we choose products.

Best translation earbuds compared

Earbuds	Best for	Languages	Works offline	Phone needed	Buy
Apple AirPods Pro 3	iPhone owners	Apple’s Live Translation list (see below)	Yes, processing is on the iPhone	iPhone 15 Pro or later, iOS 26	Check price
Apple AirPods 5	Cheaper iPhone option	Same as AirPods Pro 3	Yes	iPhone 15 Pro or later, iOS 26	Check price
Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro	Samsung Galaxy owners; phone calls	22	Check Samsung’s language packs	Galaxy AI phone (calls: Galaxy S26 series)	Check price
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2	Pixel and other Android phones	40+ (Pixel Buds mode); 70+ in Translate’s Live translate	No, needs internet	Android	Check price
Timekettle W4 Pro	Business, meetings, calls	52 (106 accents)	13 language pairs	iPhone or Android (Timekettle app)	Check price
Timekettle M3	Cheapest dedicated translator	43	13 language pairs (offline version)	iPhone or Android (Timekettle app)	Check price

First: you may not need new earbuds

Google Translate’s Live translate now works with any pair of headphones, on Android and, since March 26, 2026, on iPhone. Open the Translate app, tap Live translate and connect your headphones; Google says it covers more than 70 languages and keeps the speaker’s tone and pacing (Google). In June 2026, Google moved it to its Gemini 3.5 Live Translate model and added a listening mode on Android that plays translations through the phone’s earpiece, with no headphones at all (Google).

So if you already own decent earbuds and travel with an internet connection, try that first. The earbuds below are worth buying if you want translation built into the buds’ controls, translation that works offline, translation on phone calls, or a dedicated device for work.

The best translation earbuds in 2026

1. Apple AirPods Pro 3: best for iPhone

Apple’s Live Translation turns AirPods into an interpreter: you hear the other person in your language, and they can read your words on your iPhone’s screen in the Translate app or hear them played aloud, so they don’t need AirPods. You start it by pressing and holding both stems, by asking Siri, or with the iPhone’s Action button. Once the language models are downloaded, all processing happens on your iPhone, so your conversation stays private and works without a connection (Apple).

The catch is the requirements: an iPhone 15 Pro or later on iOS 26, with Apple Intelligence on. At launch Apple supported English, French, German, Portuguese (Brazil) and Spanish, and said Chinese, Italian, Japanese and Korean would follow; it isn’t available if you’re in the EU with an EU Apple Account (Apple Newsroom). The Pro 3 are the best AirPods for it because their sealed tips and strong noise cancelling make the translated voice easier to hear in a busy street or station.

Check the AirPods Pro 3 on Amazon →

2. Apple AirPods 5: cheaper AirPods with Live Translation

Live Translation also works on the AirPods 5 (both models), AirPods 4 with noise cancelling, AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods Max 2 (Apple). The AirPods 5 are the cheapest current way in, and you can start Live Translation by pressing both stems (Apple Newsroom). Their open fit lets in more street noise than the Pro 3, so the translation is harder to hear in loud places. If you already own AirPods Pro 2 or AirPods 4 with ANC, you don’t need to upgrade.

Check the AirPods 5 on Amazon →

3. Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro: best for Samsung phones and calls

On a Galaxy phone with Galaxy AI, the Buds 4 Pro work with two Samsung features. Interpreter translates face-to-face conversations: you hear the translation in the buds, and the other person reads it on your phone’s screen. Live Translate works on phone calls: using the Samsung Phone app on a Galaxy S26, the buds deliver a real-time translation of the other caller into your ear. Samsung says the pair supports 22 languages (Samsung).

Translation that comes through the buds on ordinary phone calls is the standout. The limits are that you need a recent Galaxy phone, and the features don’t work on an iPhone. For the rest of what the Buds 4 Pro do, see our best earbuds for Samsung Galaxy.

Check the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro on Amazon →

4. Google Pixel Buds Pro 2: best for Pixel and other Android phones

Pixel Buds work with Google Translate’s conversation mode: tap Live translate, then Conversation, and the app listens for both languages, with translations in your ear and on the phone’s screen. Google lists more than 40 languages for Pixel Buds translation, and it needs an internet connection (Google). Since Translate’s newer Live translate works with any headphones in 70+ languages, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 aren’t required for translation anymore, but they’re the best-integrated earbuds on a Pixel, with strong noise cancelling and a small, light fit. More in our Pixel earbuds guide.

Check the Pixel Buds Pro 2 on Amazon →

5. Timekettle W4 Pro: best dedicated translator for work

Timekettle makes earbuds that exist mainly to translate. The W4 Pro support 52 languages with 106 accents, plus 13 language pairs offline, and go beyond face-to-face talk: they translate phone calls, online meetings and videos, save the audio and text, and can produce AI meeting notes. They use an open-ear design for comfort over long sessions (Timekettle). They work with both iPhone and Android through Timekettle’s app.

Good to know: they cost far more than regular earbuds, an open-ear design doesn’t block noise, and beyond the free ones, extra offline language packs are paid. They make sense for people who translate at work, not for a once-a-year trip.

Check the Timekettle W4 Pro on Amazon →

6. Timekettle M3: cheapest dedicated translator

The M3 are Timekettle’s all-in-one earbuds for translation, music and calls: 43 languages online, 13 language pairs offline on the offline version, and up to 25 hours of battery with the case (Timekettle). They’re the pick if you want offline translation on an older phone that can’t run Apple’s or Samsung’s features.

Check the Timekettle M3 on Amazon →

How to choose translation earbuds

Match your phone. Apple’s and Samsung’s translation features only work with their own phones, and recent ones at that (iPhone 15 Pro or later; a Galaxy AI phone). Timekettle and Google Translate work on both iPhone and Android.
Check your languages. Apple supports the fewest languages, Samsung 22, Timekettle up to 52, and Google Translate 70+. Check that both of your languages are on the list before buying.
Decide if you need offline. Apple processes on the iPhone once languages are downloaded, and Timekettle offers 13 offline pairs. Google lists an internet connection as a requirement for Pixel Buds translation. Offline matters on planes, cruises and roaming plans.
Calls and meetings. The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro translate phone calls on a Galaxy S26, and the Timekettle W4 Pro handle calls, video meetings and saved notes.
The other person doesn’t need earbuds. With Apple, Samsung and Google, they read or hear your side on your phone.

Specs from the makers, side by side

Model	Battery	Weight	Water rating	Connection	Maker doesn’t state
Apple AirPods Pro 3	ANC on: 8 h with case: 24 h	5.55 g	IP57	Bluetooth 5.3	codecs, latency, multipoint
Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro	ANC on: 6 h ANC off: 7 h with case: 26 (ANC on) / 30 (ANC off)	Not stated	IP57	Bluetooth 6.1	weight, codecs, latency, multipoint
Timekettle W4 Pro	6 (translation) / 12 (music) with case: 10 translation / 18 music (2-pack listing: 20 / 36)	Not stated	Not stated	Bluetooth	Bluetooth version, weight (199 g figure unclear), water rating
Apple AirPods 5	ANC on: 4 (USB-C case) / 5 (wireless charging case) ANC off: 6 / 7 with case: 20 / 22 (ANC on)	4.3 g	IP57	Bluetooth 5.3	codecs, latency, multipoint
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2	ANC on: 8 h ANC off: 12 h with case: 30 (ANC on) / 48 (ANC off)	4.7 g	IP54 (earbuds), IPX4 (case)	Bluetooth 5.4	codecs, multipoint, latency
Timekettle M3	ANC on: 6 (music) ANC off: 7 (music) / 7.5 per charge with case: 25 h	5 g	Not stated	Bluetooth	Bluetooth version, water rating

Our verdict

Buy the earbuds that match your phone: the AirPods Pro 3 on a recent iPhone (or AirPods 5 to save money), the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro on a Samsung, and the Pixel Buds Pro 2 on a Pixel. If you translate for work, need phone calls, meetings or many languages, the Timekettle W4 Pro are worth their price, and the M3 are a cheaper dedicated option with offline packs. And if you’re on a budget, try Google Translate’s Live translate with the headphones you already have.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best translation earbuds?

The AirPods Pro 3 for iPhone owners, the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro for Samsung owners (including translated phone calls), and the Timekettle W4 Pro for business use, with 52 languages and 13 offline language pairs.

Do translation earbuds work offline?

Some do. Apple’s Live Translation runs on the iPhone once the languages are downloaded, and Timekettle’s W4 Pro and M3 support 13 offline language pairs. Google lists an internet connection as a requirement for Pixel Buds translation.

Which AirPods have Live Translation?

AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, AirPods 5, AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Max 2, paired with an iPhone 15 Pro or later running iOS 26 with Apple Intelligence turned on.

Can I use any earbuds for live translation?

Yes. Google Translate’s Live translate works with any headphones on Android and iPhone in more than 70 languages. Dedicated or brand-matched earbuds add touch controls, offline use or call translation.

Does the other person need translation earbuds too?

No. With AirPods, Galaxy Buds and Pixel Buds, the other person reads or hears your translated words on your phone.

Best Earbuds for Gaming (2026): Low-Latency Picks for PC, PS5, Xbox and Switch 2

Leave a Comment / Audio, Wireless Earbuds

Black wireless earbuds and their charging case

The best earbuds for gaming use their own USB-C wireless dongle instead of Bluetooth, which cuts the delay you’d otherwise hear in fast games. The SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds are the best all-rounder: a 2.4GHz dongle plus Bluetooth 5.3, noise cancelling, up to 40 hours with the case, and versions for PlayStation or Xbox. The Sony INZONE Buds are the pick for PC, PS5 and Switch 2, and the Razer Hammerhead V3 HyperSpeed cost a little less.

Check the Arctis GameBuds on Amazon →

How we put this together: this guide is based on manufacturers’ official specifications and published reviews (linked below). It is not based on hands-on testing by iTech Level. See how we choose products.

Best earbuds for gaming compared

Earbuds	Best for	Low-latency connection	Battery (with case)	Buy
SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds	Best overall; PlayStation or Xbox versions	2.4GHz USB-C dongle + Bluetooth 5.3	10 hr (40 hr)	Check price
Sony INZONE Buds	PC, PS5 and Switch 2	USB-C dongle (Sony rates under 30 ms) + Bluetooth LE Audio	12 hr (24 hr)	Check price
Razer Hammerhead V3 HyperSpeed	Value	2.4GHz HyperSpeed dongle + Bluetooth 6.0	10 hr (40 hr)	Check price
PlayStation Pulse Explore	PS5 and PlayStation Portal	PlayStation Link + Bluetooth at the same time	5 hr (15 hr)	Check price
EarFun Air Pro 4	Mobile gaming on a budget	Bluetooth with a low-latency game mode	Up to 7.5 hr with ANC	Check price

Why gaming earbuds need a dongle

Regular Bluetooth earbuds add roughly 150–200 ms of delay on most devices, enough to hear footsteps and gunshots after you see them, and the PS5 and Xbox don’t support Bluetooth audio at all. Gaming earbuds solve both problems with a small USB-C dongle that plugs into a PC, PS5, Switch 2 or handheld, and they keep Bluetooth for your phone. Our Bluetooth headphones for gaming guide explains the numbers. If you already own regular earbuds, see whether they’ll do: AirPods, Galaxy Buds, Beats or Bose.

The best earbuds for gaming in 2026

1. SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds: best overall

The Arctis GameBuds pair a 2.4GHz USB-C dongle, which SteelSeries says is up to 7x faster than Bluetooth, with Bluetooth 5.3, and a triple tap switches between the two. They add 4-mic hybrid noise cancelling with a transparency mode, IP55 water resistance, up to 10 hours per charge (40 hours with the case, and 15 minutes of charging gives 3 hours), and 100+ game audio presets in the Arctis Companion app (SteelSeries). TechRadar’s review headline calls them “small in stature, huge in performance” (TechRadar). Good to know: there are separate PlayStation and Xbox versions; the PlayStation one also works with Switch, PC and VR, so buy the version for your console.

Check the Arctis GameBuds on Amazon →

2. Sony INZONE Buds: best for PC, PS5 and Switch 2

Sony’s gaming earbuds connect through a small USB-C dongle with latency Sony rates at under 30 ms, which also makes them a neat fit for a Switch 2, a Steam Deck or a USB-C Android phone. They add active noise cancelling and Bluetooth LE Audio, and Sony rates the battery at up to 12 hours (24 with the case). More in our Sony gaming headphones guide.

Check the INZONE Buds on Amazon →

3. Razer Hammerhead V3 HyperSpeed: best value

Razer’s 2026 gaming earbuds combine its 2.4GHz HyperSpeed wireless with Bluetooth 6.0, switching between them with SmartSwitch. They have hybrid noise cancelling that Razer says is up to 50% better than the previous generation, up to 10 hours per charge (40 hours with the case), and the dongle can be used on its own or you can plug in the case to play and charge at once (Razer). They work with PC, PS5, Steam Deck and phones.

Check the Hammerhead V3 HyperSpeed on Amazon →

Check the Hammerhead V3 HyperSpeed at Razer.com →

4. PlayStation Pulse Explore: best for PS5

Sony’s own PlayStation earbuds use PlayStation Link, its lossless, low-latency wireless, through an adapter for the PS5, PC or Mac, and connect to the PlayStation Portal directly. They can stay connected to your phone over Bluetooth at the same time (PlayStation). Good to know: they last about 5 hours per charge (15 with the case), less than the picks above. More in our best PS5 headsets.

Check the Pulse Explore on Amazon →

5. EarFun Air Pro 4: best budget for mobile gaming

If you mostly play on your phone, you don’t need a dongle. The EarFun Air Pro 4 have a low-latency game mode, adaptive noise cancelling, LDAC and multipoint, and SoundGuys liked their sound, noise cancelling and app at the price (SoundGuys). Good to know: they’re still Bluetooth, so they won’t work for game audio on a PS5 or Xbox.

Check the EarFun Air Pro 4 on Amazon →

Specs from the makers, side by side

Model	Battery	Weight	Latency (maker)	Connection	Maker doesn’t state
SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds	ANC off: 10 h with case: 40 (2.4 GHz, noise control off)	Not stated	Not stated	2.4 GHz USB-C dongle + Bluetooth; Bluetooth 5.3	weight, case weight, latency, battery with ANC on
Sony INZONE Buds (WF-G700N)	ANC on: 11 (dongle) / 18 (LE Audio) ANC off: 12 (dongle) / 24 (LE Audio) with case: 24 (dongle, NC off) / 48 (LE Audio, NC off)	6.5 g	less than 30 ms (USB-C dongle)	2.4 GHz USB-C dongle + Bluetooth LE Audio only (no classic Bluetooth); Bluetooth 5.3 (LE Audio only)	multipoint, case weight
Razer Hammerhead V3 HyperSpeed	ANC off: 10 h with case: 40 (10 + 30 from case)	Not stated	"ultra-low latency" 2.4 GHz (no figure)	2.4 GHz HyperSpeed + Bluetooth; Bluetooth 6.0	weight, latency figure
PlayStation PULSE Explore	5 h with case: 15 (5 + 10 from case)	Not stated	"ultra-low latency" (no figure)	PlayStation Link USB adapter + Bluetooth (simultaneous)	Bluetooth version, codecs, weight, water rating, latency figure
EarFun Air Pro 4	ANC on: 7.5 h ANC off: 11 h with case: 35 (ANC on) / 52 (ANC off)	56 (page does not say what it covers)	<50 ms (Ultra Low Latency Mode)	Bluetooth 5.4	earbud weight

Our verdict

For gaming, buy earbuds with their own wireless dongle. The SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds are the best all-rounder, with PlayStation and Xbox versions, noise cancelling and long battery life. The Sony INZONE Buds are the neatest option for PC, PS5 and Switch 2, the Razer Hammerhead V3 HyperSpeed cost a little less, and the PlayStation Pulse Explore are made for PS5 and the Portal. For phone gaming only, the EarFun Air Pro 4 are a cheap option with a game mode. Prefer a headset? See our best gaming headsets.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best earbuds for gaming?

The SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds for most people: a 2.4GHz USB-C dongle plus Bluetooth 5.3, noise cancelling and up to 40 hours with the case. The Sony INZONE Buds are the pick for PC, PS5 and Switch 2.

Are wireless earbuds good for gaming?

Gaming earbuds with a USB-C dongle are. Regular Bluetooth earbuds add roughly 150–200 ms of delay and can’t connect to a PS5 or Xbox, so they’re best kept for casual mobile games.

Which earbuds work with PS5?

Earbuds with their own dongle or PlayStation Link, such as the Arctis GameBuds (PlayStation version), Sony INZONE Buds or PlayStation Pulse Explore. The PS5 doesn’t support Bluetooth audio.

Which earbuds work with Xbox?

Ones made for Xbox, such as the Xbox version of the SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds. Xbox consoles don’t support Bluetooth audio, so regular earbuds won’t connect.

Do gaming earbuds have a good mic?

They have built-in microphones for chat; check the maker’s specs for mic support on your console. For streaming or long competitive sessions, a headset with a boom mic usually sounds clearer.

Audio

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Specs from the makers, side by side

Our verdict

Frequently asked questions

Can you connect Bluetooth headphones to an Xbox Series X|S?

Can you use Bose headphones on an Xbox?

Can you use Beats on an Xbox?

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Why is my battery life shorter than the box says?

Which gaming headsets have the longest battery life?

Can I use this data on my site?

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Best Headphones for Flying (2026): Noise Cancelling for Long Flights

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Best headphones for flying compared

The best headphones for flying in 2026

1. Sony WH-1000XM6: best overall

2. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen): most comfortable

3. Sennheiser Momentum 5: longest battery life

4. Soundcore Space 2: best budget pick

5. Beats Studio Pro: if you forget to charge

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Specs from the makers, side by side

Our verdict

Frequently asked questions

What are the best headphones for flying?

Can you use Bluetooth headphones on a plane?

Do noise-cancelling headphones work well on planes?

What are the best budget headphones for flying?

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Best Translation Earbuds (2026): AirPods, Galaxy Buds, Pixel Buds and Timekettle

Best translation earbuds compared

First: you may not need new earbuds

The best translation earbuds in 2026

1. Apple AirPods Pro 3: best for iPhone

2. Apple AirPods 5: cheaper AirPods with Live Translation

3. Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro: best for Samsung phones and calls

4. Google Pixel Buds Pro 2: best for Pixel and other Android phones

5. Timekettle W4 Pro: best dedicated translator for work

6. Timekettle M3: cheapest dedicated translator

How to choose translation earbuds

Specs from the makers, side by side

Our verdict

Frequently asked questions

What are the best translation earbuds?

Do translation earbuds work offline?

Which AirPods have Live Translation?

Can I use any earbuds for live translation?

Does the other person need translation earbuds too?

Related guides

Best Earbuds for Gaming (2026): Low-Latency Picks for PC, PS5, Xbox and Switch 2

Best earbuds for gaming compared

Why gaming earbuds need a dongle

The best earbuds for gaming in 2026

1. SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds: best overall

2. Sony INZONE Buds: best for PC, PS5 and Switch 2

3. Razer Hammerhead V3 HyperSpeed: best value

4. PlayStation Pulse Explore: best for PS5

5. EarFun Air Pro 4: best budget for mobile gaming

Specs from the makers, side by side