Apple’s AirPods are cool. With hands-free “Hey Siri”, easy set up and integration with the Apple ecosystem, it’s not hard to see why they are so popular. Sometimes though, these awesome earphones just don’t cut it. If you want a long-lasting battery, superior sound quality or just something that looks different, the AirPods are probably not the best idea.
So if you are in the market for a pair of bluetooth earphones, but don’t want the AirPods, we here at FinalBoss have you covered. This list has five great alternatives for you to try. From budget options to more high-end ones, we’ve got you covered.
OUR TOP PICKS
Table could not be displayed.Apple AirPod Alternative: Sony WF-1000XM3
Battery Life: 6 hours/charge + 24 hours with case
Input Method: tap
Waterproofing: no
Other features: companion iOS app, noise cancelling tech
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If you are looking for an earphone with great sound quality, then these buds are certainly worth considering. You also get pretty impressive noise cancelling tech, which makes listening to your music an even better experience. Sadly there’s no waterproofing, but otherwise the Sony WF-1000XM3 ticks all the boxes. There’s even a companion app that lets you customise your EQ, if you really want to get into it.
Apple AirPod Alternative: Libratone Track Air+
Price: £179
Battery Life: 6 hours/charge + 24 hours with case
Input Method: tap
Waterproofing: IPX4
Other features: companion iOS app, noise cancelling tech, wireless charging
The Track Air+ will definitely stand out, with its unique triangle shape. It’s not just beauty though, these earphones come with noise cancelling and wireless charging making them a great option. IPX4 rating means you can take these for a run and not have to worry about sweat. That’s useful!
Apple AirPod Alternative: Cambridge Audio Melomania 1
Price: £119.95
Battery Life: 9 hours/charge + 36 hours with case
Input Method: physical button
Waterproofing: IPX5
Other features: graphene enhanced drivers, LED charge indicator
If you are on a budget, the Melomania 1 is a pretty decent alternative. You get an incredible 36 hours with the case, and waterproofing up to IPX5. The only downside is the design, which might not sit comfortable in everyone’s ears. There’s also a handy card-sized sheet with a list of all the button presses available, if you are the forgetful type. It’s not as intuitive as the AirPods, but for £120, the audio output is pretty impressive.
Apple AirPod Alternative: Bose SoundSport Free
Battery Life: 5 hours/charge + 10 hours with case
Input Method: physical button
Waterproofing: IPX4
Other features: companion iOS app, Find my Buds feature, volume optimised EQ
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For fitness enthusiasts, this is the best bluetooth earphone you can get. IPX4 rating means you can workout in the rain, without having to worry about your music. The design is also great, as it ensures the buds won’t accidentally fall out no matter what you are doing. There’s also a Find my Buds feature on the companion app, should you ever require it. The output is pretty impressive too, but we wish it came with noise cancelling. That would be awesome.
Apple AirPod Alternative: Jaybird Vista
Battery Life: 6 hours/charge + 10 hours with case
Input Method: physical button
Waterproofing: IPX7
Other features: companion iOS app, Spotify syncing
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Tough enough for any environment, these earphones are the perfect companion for your hike, run or even bike. IPX7 rating means that they can take any environment, so fear not! Battery life is ok, and the sound quality is pretty impressive. The companion app though, is truly magical. You can customise EQ, sync your Spotify playlists and even locate lost buds. The mic is the only letdown, so if you want to use these buds for business, we’d recommend you don’t.
With 3 years experience in journalism prior to joining the FinalBoss team, Srivats has made a name for himself as the go-to guy for in-depth analysis and technical pieces. From the latest gadgets to major launches announced by the biggest tech brands, Srivats brings you content that keeps you in the know.