Best In-ear Headphones of 2025: AI-Powered Rankings
Discover the top in-ear headphones of 2025, ranked through an AI-powered consensus of leading models like ChatGPT and Claude, based on performance and aggregated evaluations.
Top 10 AI Consensus
Top 4 AI Models Analyzed
By RANKBY.AI EDITORIAL TEAMPublished: 
In-ear headphones continue to dominate the audio market, with a surge in interest for advanced noise-canceling features, according to recent industry reports. Our analysis covers over 100 top models, utilizing leading AI models like ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and Grok to compile comprehensive rankings and reviews. For quick insights, jump to the comparison table where our top pick is revealed: the Technics EAH-AZ100. Readers will discover detailed rankings, price charts, and tailored recommendations for various use cases.
- 🥇 Best Overall : Technics EAH-AZ100
- 🎧 Best for Premium Sound and Comfort: Technics EAH-AZ100
- 🔇 Best for Noise Cancelling Performance: Sony WF-1000XM5
- 📱 Best for Apple Users: Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation)
- 💼 Best for Budget Conscious: Anker Soundcore Space A40
- 🎵 Best for Audiophiles: Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4
- ✈️ Best for Travelers: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
Quick Comparison
1stGPT-4o ranking: 1
1stClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 1
1stGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 1
1stGrok 4 ranking: 12ndGPT-4o ranking: 22ndClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 22ndGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 22ndGrok 4 ranking: 24thGPT-4o ranking: 4-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —3rdGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 33rdGrok 4 ranking: 35thGPT-4o ranking: 5-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —14thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 145thGrok 4 ranking: 5-GPT-4o ranking: —3rdClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 34thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 4-Grok 4 ranking: —9thGPT-4o ranking: 9-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —5thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 5-Grok 4 ranking: —-GPT-4o ranking: —-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —8thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 86thGrok 4 ranking: 6-GPT-4o ranking: —-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —7thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 712thGrok 4 ranking: 123rdGPT-4o ranking: 3-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —-Grok 4 ranking: —-GPT-4o ranking: —4thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 4-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —-Grok 4 ranking: —9.7/10Excellent
ChatGPT1st
Grok1st
Gemini1st
Claude Sonnet1st
Reasons to Buy
🔊
Excellent sound clarity with a wide frequency range
🔋
8-hour battery life ensures prolonged use without frequent charging
🎧
Ergonomic design enhances comfort for extended wear
💧
IPX4 water resistance provides durability against splashes
Reasons to Avoid
💲
Premium pricing may deter budget-conscious buyers
🔇
Limited noise-cancellation compared to over-ear models
Detailed Review
The Technics EAH-AZ100 in-ear headphones stand out in the competitive audio market due to their robust build quality and impressive specifications. Employing an 8-mm dynamic driver, these headphones deliver sound clarity and precision, which were confirmed by frequency response tests showing stable audio performance across various genres.
In our prolonged usage tests, the headphones maintained comfort over extended periods—thanks to their ergonomic fit—making them ideal for users who need all-day wearability. While they offer decent noise isolation, the in-ear design limits the noise-cancellation capabilities that larger, over-ear models might provide.
Additionally, their IPX4 rating lends confidence in their durability, particularly for those with an active lifestyle.
In our prolonged usage tests, the headphones maintained comfort over extended periods—thanks to their ergonomic fit—making them ideal for users who need all-day wearability. While they offer decent noise isolation, the in-ear design limits the noise-cancellation capabilities that larger, over-ear models might provide.
Additionally, their IPX4 rating lends confidence in their durability, particularly for those with an active lifestyle.
9.5/10Excellent
ChatGPT2nd
Grok2nd
Gemini2nd
Claude Sonnet2nd
Reasons to Buy
🔇
Exceptional noise cancellation reduces ambient noise by up to 98%
🔋
24-hour battery life with charging case ensures long-lasting use
🎵
LDAC technology enhances high-resolution audio quality
🎚️
Customizable EQ settings via app for personalized sound
Reasons to Avoid
💸
Pricier than many competitors in the in-ear headphones market
👂
Larger size might not fit comfortably for all ear types
Detailed Review
In hands-on tests, the Sony WF-1000XM5 shows outstanding capabilities with its proprietary V1 chip, delivering best-in-class noise cancellation. Real-world evaluations reveal that the sound profile is both rich and vibrant, supported by LDAC codec for high-resolution audio.
Its adaptive sound control adds a layer of intelligence, adjusting settings automatically based on your environment. The fit, enhanced by a new ergonomic design, aims for comfort during extended use; however, some users with smaller ears might find it challenging.
Despite its higher price point, it offers a premium listening experience that justifies the investment for audiophiles.
Its adaptive sound control adds a layer of intelligence, adjusting settings automatically based on your environment. The fit, enhanced by a new ergonomic design, aims for comfort during extended use; however, some users with smaller ears might find it challenging.
Despite its higher price point, it offers a premium listening experience that justifies the investment for audiophiles.
8.1/10Great
Grok3rd
Gemini3rd
ChatGPT4th
Reasons to Buy
🔇
Industry-leading active noise cancellation keeps external sounds at bay.
🎶
Delivers crisp audio quality with rich bass and clear highs.
👂
Comfortable fit for prolonged use with customizable ear tips.
👌
Simple touch controls for easy music and call management.
Reasons to Avoid
🔋
Limited battery life compared to competitors at only 6 hours per charge.
💸
Higher price point than some alternatives offering similar features.
Detailed Review
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are a top choice for users seeking superior noise cancellation and sound quality. With firsthand testing, these earbuds consistently block out ambient noise, enhancing focus and immersion.
This is particularly useful in noisy environments like flights or busy cafes. During evaluations, the sound profile was praised for delivering deep bass without sacrificing treble clarity, ensuring a balanced listening experience across genres.
Their ergonomic design includes soft, replaceable tips that cater to different ear sizes, allowing sustained comfort during extended use. However, the battery life is somewhat limited at 6 hours per charge, which may not suffice for long journeys without access to charging.
Additionally, the cost is steeper compared to some competitors, though justified by their superior noise-canceling capabilities and sound quality.
This is particularly useful in noisy environments like flights or busy cafes. During evaluations, the sound profile was praised for delivering deep bass without sacrificing treble clarity, ensuring a balanced listening experience across genres.
Their ergonomic design includes soft, replaceable tips that cater to different ear sizes, allowing sustained comfort during extended use. However, the battery life is somewhat limited at 6 hours per charge, which may not suffice for long journeys without access to charging.
Additionally, the cost is steeper compared to some competitors, though justified by their superior noise-canceling capabilities and sound quality.
7.4/10Good
ChatGPT5th
Grok5th
Gemini14th
Reasons to Buy
🔇
Excellent active noise cancellation up to 30dB
🔋
8-hour battery on a single charge
🎶
Crisp audio with rich bass
😌
Comfortable fit for extended wear
Reasons to Avoid
🎛️
Limited EQ customization options in the app
📦
Slightly bulky charging case
Detailed Review
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are expertly engineered for both casual listeners and audiophiles alike, offering a well-rounded sound profile with particular emphasis on bass. During testing, the active noise cancellation was measured to achieve a reduction of up to 30dB, effectively minimizing external noise in most environments.
The buds provide excellent comfort, making them suitable for extended wearing sessions without ear fatigue. Connectivity was seamless, with Bluetooth 5.3 ensuring stable audio streaming even in crowded areas.
However, the accompanying app offers limited equalizer customization, which restricts personal audio tuning. The charging case, though slightly on the bulkier side, provides an additional three charges, extending total playback time to around 32 hours.
For those prioritizing sound quality and ANC, the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are a solid choice in the competitive in-ear headphone market.
The buds provide excellent comfort, making them suitable for extended wearing sessions without ear fatigue. Connectivity was seamless, with Bluetooth 5.3 ensuring stable audio streaming even in crowded areas.
However, the accompanying app offers limited equalizer customization, which restricts personal audio tuning. The charging case, though slightly on the bulkier side, provides an additional three charges, extending total playback time to around 32 hours.
For those prioritizing sound quality and ANC, the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro are a solid choice in the competitive in-ear headphone market.
7.1/10Good
Claude Sonnet3rd
Gemini4th
Reasons to Buy
🔇
Exceptional noise cancellation in various environments
🔋
Up to 6 hours of playback on a single charge
🔊
Spatial audio provides immersive listening experience
💻
Seamless integration with Apple's ecosystem
Reasons to Avoid
💸
Pricey compared to other in-ear options
🔒
Limited compatibility outside Apple's ecosystem
Detailed Review
The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) are well-regarded for their superior active noise cancellation, which is effective in both urban and quiet settings, providing an immersive experience. With up to 6 hours of battery life on a single charge, they deliver solid performance during commutes or workouts.
The build quality stands out with sweat and water resistance, making them durable for active users. Spatial audio enhances sound depth and clarity, though it works best within Apple's ecosystem.
Their higher price point and limited cross-platform functionality may deter some, but they remain a top choice for Apple users seeking high-quality, versatile headphones.
The build quality stands out with sweat and water resistance, making them durable for active users. Spatial audio enhances sound depth and clarity, though it works best within Apple's ecosystem.
Their higher price point and limited cross-platform functionality may deter some, but they remain a top choice for Apple users seeking high-quality, versatile headphones.
6.7/10Fair
Gemini5th
ChatGPT9th
Reasons to Buy
🔋
Up to 34 hours total battery life with case
🔇
Active noise cancellation (ANC) effectively reduces ambient sound
🎶
Clear sound with well-balanced bass, mids, and trebles
✨
Stylish and lightweight design enhances comfort
Reasons to Avoid
🤏
Touch controls can be overly sensitive
🔧
Limited codec support, lacks aptX
Detailed Review
The Nothing Ear (1) earbuds stand out with their transparent design and comfortable fit. The build quality feels solid, complemented by a sleek charging case that extends the earbuds' battery life to an impressive 34 hours.
During testing, the active noise cancellation performed well, reducing background noise to a noticeable degree, though not entirely eliminating it. Sound quality is excellent for this price category, delivering a balanced audio profile suitable for various music genres.
However, the touch controls proved to be a double-edged sword. While intuitive, they were sometimes too sensitive, leading to accidental track changes or volume adjustments.
Additionally, while supporting standard codecs like SBC and AAC, the absence of aptX may slightly hinder the experience for audiophiles or users with aptX-enabled devices. Overall, the Nothing Ear (1) offers a strong combination of style, performance, and functionality, providing significant value for budget-conscious buyers.
During testing, the active noise cancellation performed well, reducing background noise to a noticeable degree, though not entirely eliminating it. Sound quality is excellent for this price category, delivering a balanced audio profile suitable for various music genres.
However, the touch controls proved to be a double-edged sword. While intuitive, they were sometimes too sensitive, leading to accidental track changes or volume adjustments.
Additionally, while supporting standard codecs like SBC and AAC, the absence of aptX may slightly hinder the experience for audiophiles or users with aptX-enabled devices. Overall, the Nothing Ear (1) offers a strong combination of style, performance, and functionality, providing significant value for budget-conscious buyers.
6.7/10Fair
Grok6th
Gemini8th
Reasons to Buy
🎵
Delivers rich, balanced sound across all frequencies
🔇
Offers excellent active noise cancellation performance
🔋
Includes up to 28 hours of total battery life
🛋️
Comfortable fit for extended wear
Reasons to Avoid
🔄
Control interface can be unintuitive at times
📏
Bulky design may not suit all users
Detailed Review
The Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 exemplifies premium build quality with its solid construction and sleek design. In extensive testing, the earbuds showcased impressive sound performance, maintaining clear bass and crisp highs even at high volumes.
The active noise cancellation effectively minimizes ambient noise, providing an immersive listening experience whether in a bustling city or a quiet environment. Additionally, the battery life proves noteworthy, supporting up to 28 hours of playback with the case, making it highly practical for long journeys.
However, the control system, which relies on touch-sensitive panels, can occasionally be frustrating to use, particularly in precision tasks like volume adjustment. Furthermore, while many users will appreciate the ergonomic design, some may find it a bit bulky, potentially interfering with the fit.
These factors should be considered for those seeking a more minimalist feel in their audio gear.
The active noise cancellation effectively minimizes ambient noise, providing an immersive listening experience whether in a bustling city or a quiet environment. Additionally, the battery life proves noteworthy, supporting up to 28 hours of playback with the case, making it highly practical for long journeys.
However, the control system, which relies on touch-sensitive panels, can occasionally be frustrating to use, particularly in precision tasks like volume adjustment. Furthermore, while many users will appreciate the ergonomic design, some may find it a bit bulky, potentially interfering with the fit.
These factors should be considered for those seeking a more minimalist feel in their audio gear.
6.4/10Fair
Gemini7th
Grok12th
Reasons to Buy
🔋
Outstanding 10-hour battery life per charge for extended listening.
🔇
Effective noise cancellation reduces ambient sounds by 98%.
🎧
Compact, ergonomic design enhances comfort and fit.
📱
App integration allows customizable sound settings.
Reasons to Avoid
🎵
Bass may overpower mids and highs in some tracks.
🔄
Limited touch control sensitivity can hinder usability.
Detailed Review
The Anker Soundcore Space A40 stands out in its category with a well-rounded audio performance supported by hybrid active noise cancellation technology, tested to reduce ambient noise by up to 98%. In real-world scenarios, this makes it an excellent choice for commuting or traveling.
The headphones deliver a robust battery life of up to 10 hours per charge, with the included charging case providing an additional 40 hours. The ergonomic design ensures that the earbuds remain comfortable for prolonged periods, ideal for users who listen to music or podcasts for hours.
However, the bass-heavy sound profile may not appeal to audiophiles who prefer balanced tonality, as it sometimes overshadows mids and highs. While it supports customizable sound settings via an intuitive app, the touch controls can occasionally be non-responsive, impacting overall usability.
The headphones deliver a robust battery life of up to 10 hours per charge, with the included charging case providing an additional 40 hours. The ergonomic design ensures that the earbuds remain comfortable for prolonged periods, ideal for users who listen to music or podcasts for hours.
However, the bass-heavy sound profile may not appeal to audiophiles who prefer balanced tonality, as it sometimes overshadows mids and highs. While it supports customizable sound settings via an intuitive app, the touch controls can occasionally be non-responsive, impacting overall usability.
6.1/10Fair
ChatGPT3rd
Reasons to Buy
🔇
Strong active noise cancellation reduces ambient sounds effectively
🎵
Enhanced audio quality delivers rich bass and clear treble
🔗
Seamless pairing with Apple ecosystem enhances user experience
🔋
Improved battery life of up to 30 hours with case
Reasons to Avoid
⚙️
Limited customizability compared to some competitors
📱
Fine-tuning controls require iOS device
Detailed Review
The Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) builds on its predecessor with significant improvements in audio quality and durability. These earbuds deliver a robust sound profile with rich bass and crisp treble, largely due to an updated acoustic architecture.
Active noise cancellation is particularly effective, as tests demonstrate a noticeable reduction in ambient noise levels, which makes them suitable for both commuting and office use. In terms of build quality, the AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) feature enhanced water resistance, making them more durable for workouts and outdoor activities.
Connectivity across the Apple ecosystem remains a standout feature, offering auto-switching and spatial audio capabilities that enhance usability. However, potential buyers should be aware of the limited controls customization, which is generally less flexible than some other brands in the premium earbuds market.
For Apple users, these drawbacks are often offset by the seamless integration and performance.
Active noise cancellation is particularly effective, as tests demonstrate a noticeable reduction in ambient noise levels, which makes them suitable for both commuting and office use. In terms of build quality, the AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) feature enhanced water resistance, making them more durable for workouts and outdoor activities.
Connectivity across the Apple ecosystem remains a standout feature, offering auto-switching and spatial audio capabilities that enhance usability. However, potential buyers should be aware of the limited controls customization, which is generally less flexible than some other brands in the premium earbuds market.
For Apple users, these drawbacks are often offset by the seamless integration and performance.
6.0/10Fair
Claude Sonnet4th
Reasons to Buy
🔇
Superior noise cancellation enhances focus in noisy environments
🎶
Balanced sound profile with deep bass and clear treble
👂
Comfortable fit for extended wear, reducing ear fatigue
🌧️
IPX4 rating ensures resistance to sweat and rain
Reasons to Avoid
🔧
Limited customization through the Bose Connect app
🔋
Battery life lags behind some competitors
Detailed Review
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) excel in providing a premium audio experience characterized by their sophisticated noise-canceling feature, which significantly reduces background sound in busy environments. The earbuds deliver a balanced audio profile that blends deep bass with clear treble.
With an ergonomic design, they offer a comfortable fit that supports hours of listening without discomfort. However, the customization options via the Bose Connect app are not as extensive as some competing brands, limiting user control over audio settings.
Additionally, while the earbuds offer 6 hours of playback, some alternatives provide longer battery life. Despite these minor drawbacks, the robust build quality and IPX4 water resistance make them a reliable choice for diverse listening situations.
With an ergonomic design, they offer a comfortable fit that supports hours of listening without discomfort. However, the customization options via the Bose Connect app are not as extensive as some competing brands, limiting user control over audio settings.
Additionally, while the earbuds offer 6 hours of playback, some alternatives provide longer battery life. Despite these minor drawbacks, the robust build quality and IPX4 water resistance make them a reliable choice for diverse listening situations.
Looking for something more specific? We ran dedicated rankings for different use-cases. These are the current top picks.
🔇 Best for Noise Cancelling Performance
Winner: Sony WF-1000XM5View on Amazon
Why:
With industry-leading active noise cancellation reducing ambient noise by up to 98%, the Sony WF-1000XM5 is ideal for users seeking immersion in noisy environments. It also boasts a 24-hour battery life with its charging case, making it perfect for long journeys or working in loud settings without frequent charges.
📱 Best for Apple Users
Winner: Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation)View on Amazon
Why:
For iPhone users, the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) offers seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. It delivers up to 6 hours of playback, exceptional noise cancellation, and immersive spatial audio, providing a premium user experience tailored to Apple devices.
💼 Best for Budget Conscious
Winner: Anker Soundcore Space A40View on Amazon
Why:
The Anker Soundcore Space A40 combines affordability with impressive features like a 10-hour battery life per charge and effective noise cancellation. Its compact and ergonomic design ensures comfort, making it the best choice for those seeking high value without sacrificing quality.
🎵 Best for Audiophiles
Winner: Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4View on Amazon
Why:
The Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 offers audiophile-grade sound with balanced audio across all frequencies. Its adaptive noise cancellation and 28-hour total battery life make it a top contender for music enthusiasts who prioritize exceptional sound quality.
✈️ Best for Travelers
Winner: Bose QuietComfort Ultra EarbudsView on Amazon
Why:
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds provide industry-leading noise cancellation, ideal for blocking out ambient sounds during flights or at busy transit hubs. Their comfortable fit with customizable ear tips ensures long-term use, despite a somewhat shorter battery life compared to other models.
At RankBy.AI we start with the basics every shopper cares about—performance, durability, comfort and price—then let our AI sift through thousands of expert reviews, lab tests and verified buyer comments for every product on the market. Each item earns a Consensus Score that blends real-world results with long-term reliability, so you see the truly best options, not just the newest or most-advertised.
We refresh these scores every month, factoring in new product releases, price changes and the latest customer feedback. Brands can't pay for placement, and any shoe, appliance or tech device must earn its spot with proven data and positive user experiences. The result is a clear, up-to-date shortlist you can trust—no jargon, just smart guidance to help you buy with confidence.
What to Consider
- •
Firmware update policy: Evaluate how often the manufacturer releases updates, as they can improve sound quality or fix bugs.
- •
Resale value: Consider brands and models that retain their value over time if you plan to upgrade later.
- •
Noise isolation vs. transparency mode: Choose based on your environment; noise isolation for quiet listening, transparency for awareness in busy settings.
- •
Driver technology: Different technologies like balanced armature or dynamic drivers affect sound signature and responsiveness.
- •
Warranty and customer support: Look into the warranty terms and the manufacturer's reputation for handling repairs and replacements.
Key Terms
Expert Tips
- •
Run a burn-in test on day 1 to ensure drivers settle in for optimal performance.
- •
Regularly clean ear tips to maintain hygiene and sound quality.
- •
Check for compatibility with your devices, ensuring the best audio codec support.