Editor’s note: this is the first version of the article. Updates will follow as the market changes.

What I like about the Marshall Emberton II

With its IP67 protection rating, the Marshall Emberton II is ready for the great outdoors or your musty old jam space.

In true Marshall amplification style, the Emberton II sports a rock-and-roll design reminiscent of one of their classic tube amplifiers. Each side of this omnidirectional unit contains a 2″ full-range driver and a passive radiator. With its rubberized finish and IP67 protection rating, this portable speaker is ready for the beach or your next poolside hang. It easily fits in a backpack, though at 673g it is heavier than competitors such as the JBL Flip 6.

Controlling the Emberton II is dead simple. You’ll find a multidirectional button to control your power and playback and a dedicated Bluetooth button on the top of the unit. While none of these controls are backlit, the multi-control button is pretty intuitive. Push up or down for volume control, left or right to go back or skip a track, and press in the middle once to pause. It couldn’t be easier. You also get a red LED battery life meter.

The multi-control button makes the Emberton II a breeze to use.

While there isn’t much going on in the Marshall Bluetooth app, you’ll at least want to download and install it to take advantage of its “Push” EQ setting. While listening to Forest King by 3 Inches of Blood on the Marshall Emberton II, I noticed a very prominent emphasis on the mids. While this always helps instruments like distorted guitars cut through the mix, this stock preset also changes the sound of the snare drum tone I’m used to hearing on this heavy metal track.

After selecting the Push EQ preset, the Emberton II takes on more of a “U-shaped” frequency response. This enhances the bass, dials back the mid-frequencies, and increases some treble frequencies for a more exciting sound. While the guitars are pushed back slightly, so is the unnecessary “bark” from the snare drum for a better listening experience. This preset also makes kick drums a bit punchier and adds clarity to cymbals.

“I know, it’s only rock and roll, but I like it.”The Emberton II separates your music’s left and right channels with good definition. When compared side by side with the Ultimate Ears Megaboom 3, the Emberton II with the “Push” EQ activated does a much better job in reproducing treble frequencies, even after adjusting the Megaboom 3’s EQ settings. With the Emberton II, you can easily hear the details of the drummer’s cymbal work and other treble-related elements, such as reverberated vocal tones. When it comes to rock music, the Emberton II sounds better to my ears than the Megaboom 3 by far.

What’s not so good about the Marshall Emberton II?

Omnidirectional speakers are ideally placed in the center of your gathering.

As mentioned, the the Marshall Bluetooth app is a little lean. A custom EQ of any kind would be a welcome addition to further personalize the Emberton II sound. In terms of connection, Emberton II connects via Bluetooth 5.1 and is SBC only. No codec support exists for higher bit rate options, which isn’t anything new for portable speakers, but it also doesn’t support multipoint connection.

We also experienced a disappointing battery test. Unfortunately, in our standardized testing, the Emberton II lasted only 9 hours and 8 minutes. Marshall advertises 30-plus hours of playback with the Emberton II. A lackluster battery performance is always a letdown. However, it’s still enough time to listen to Guns ‘n Roses’s Appetite For Destruction at least ten times on repeat.

Lastly, it’s essential to remember omnidirectional speakers aren’t ideal for personal listening and perform best in the center of a gathering. Since your playback is fired hard left and right out of the enclosure, you won’t catch all the production-related details of your favorite song if you’re facing the speaker directly. The omnidirectional design aims to help fill your party area with as much sound as possible. Consider a more traditional, directional Bluetooth speaker for personal listening around the house.

Should you buy the Marshall Emberton II?

The Emberton II is also available in a black and gold finish and cream.

The Marshall Emberton II is a decent-sounding omnidirectional speaker in a fun rock and roll package, suitable for smaller-sized gatherings. It’s durable, dead simple to use, and easily packable if you want to bring it along on your next beach day. As long as you don’t plan on listening for more than 10 hours at a time, you’ll have a blast with this speaker.

However, if you like the idea of an omnidirectional speaker for your next gathering but aren’t digging the Marshall amp-like finish, check out the Ultimate Ears Megaboom 4 (). This popular party speaker is also built to withstand the great outdoors with its IP67 protection rating, not to mention it’s drop-proof and floats. It can also easily fit into your backpack with its cylindric design.

Marshall Emberton II review: FAQs

Did you miss out on the Amazon Prime Day deals? Best Buy is giving you a second chance to get an Amazon Echo speaker at the same super-low prices we saw earlier in July. The Amazon Acho Popt, Echo Dot, and Echo are all on sale from the popular brick-and-mortar retailer!

You can pick up an Amazon Echo Pop for just $18, down $22 from its regular $40 price. You can also get the Amazon Echo Dot half off, bringing the price tag down to $25. Meanwhile, the larger Amazon Echo is going for $55, which is a $45 discount.

Buy the Amazon Echo Pop for $18

Buy the Amazon Echo Dot for $25

Buy the Amazon Echo for $55

These deals are available from Best Buy, and they apply to all the color versions available for all the listed speakers. There’s no sign of how long the offers will last, though.

Which Amazon Echo speaker should you get?

Figuring out which Amazon Echo speaker to get can be a bit confusing. Should you go for the cheapest, the Echo Pop, or are you better off investing in one of the higher-end versions? Of course, all can handle Alexa questions and commands and control your smart home. So, why would you pay more? Let’s go over which users should get each speaker.

The Echo Pop is obviously the most basic speaker, but it isn’t bad. It is very small and good-looking. There’s still has a small notification light, and the 1.95-inch speaker will sound great if you’re close enough to it. It will find a great home in a small room, a desk, or a small kitchen corner. And if you use an eero router, it can even turn into Wi-Fi mesh extender, just like all the other speakers here.

If you want a bit of an upgrade, the Amazon Echo Dot has a smaller 1.73-inch speaker, but it still sounds great in a small room or desk. The notification light goes all around the bottom of the device, and the look is a bit more unique, as it’s nearly a full sphere. You’ll also get some extra features, such as a motion detector and a temperature sensor. This will allow you to do things like automate lights to turn on when you walk into a room, or program the thermostat when the device detects certain temperatures.

If you want to go all out and get good sound, there’s the Amazon Echo. It has a larger 3-inch neodymium woofer and two 0.8-inch tweeters. This speaker also comes with all the features you get from the Echo Dot, including the temperature and motion detection sensors. It even looks like it, with the only difference being that it’s significantly more prominent. There is one upgrade, though: it comes with a 3.5mm jack, which can work as an input or output.

By the way, if you’re looking for a good smart display, you might also want to consider the Amazon Echo Show 5 and Amazon Echo Show 8. They are also discounted at Best Buy.

Are you getting yourself one of these? Go ahead and get it as soon as possible, as we don’t know how long these offers will stick around. If you miss this second chance, you might have to wait a bit until the prices drop again. Likely around Black Friday.

No way, HUAWEI

The HUAWEI FreeBuds 5 are one of the company’s more accomplished open-ear buds.

HUAWEI is a relatively young company in the grand scheme of things. Established in 1987 after Ren Zhengfei was discharged from China’s People’s Liberation Army, Zhengfei’s military history helped HUAWEI secure some of its first major contracts. However, HUAWEI has since faced consistent international scrutiny for allegedly stealing intellectual property from other companies. Yet despite this, HUAWEI entered the consumer electronics arena in 2016 with great success. For example, its smartphones were immediately popular for their pleasing designs and reasonable price tags.

At the time, HUAWEI boasted it would become the world’s largest smartphone manufacturer within five years. By 2018, it had taken second place ahead of Apple and was closely trailing Samsung. By all accounts, it was widely expected to make good on its promise by the end of 2019. This would have overthrown Samsung as the leading player for the first time since 2011.

HUAWEI smartphone sales overtook Apple in 2018. But in 2024, the company is no longer among the top ten global smartphone manufacturers.

However, everything stalled in May 2019 when then-US president Donald Trump signed an executive order banning telecommunications equipment from foreign firms deemed national security risks. While the ban only affects products released after May 15, 2019, it remains in perpetuity and has faced little resistance from the Biden administration. This has forced HUAWEI to pivot its business practices. It also encouraged Google to bar HUAWEI from using its suite of digital products. Subsequently, fans can no longer access Gmail, YouTube, Google Drive, or the Google Play Store from newer HUAWEI smartphones. Other US-based companies have followed suit. From Qualcomm, Intel, Arm, and Microsoft, HUAWEI is increasingly isolated from Western technology companies.

In recent years though, the US government has enacted a licensing system for US firms that want to work with HUAWEI. In particular, Qualcomm, Samsung, and Sony can sell specific manufacturing parts to HUAWEI. However, the company launched its own Harmony OS NEXT in August 2023. This removes the Android layer and strips HUAWEI devices of Android-based applications. Perhaps unsurprisingly, this has led to a downfall in international sales.

My way or the HUAWEI

The HUAWEI FreeBuds 5i have excellent noise canceling and cost significantly less than the competition.

Apple is still the player to beat regarding headphones. AirPods frequently top international sales. Apple’s Wearables, Home, and Accessories category also consistently outstrips its Mac and iPad segment. This is shown by the listing profiting $7.9 billion in Q2 of 2024. However, this marked a roughly 10% fall on the previous quarter’s earnings of $8.8 billion. Tim Cook (Apple’s CEO) attributes this to a difficult comparison on Apple Watch and AirPods.

In another show of strength, HUAWEI’s Harmony OS exceeded Apple’s iOS market share in China in Q1 of 2024, selling 900 million consumer devices. Domestically, HUAWEI smartphone sales increased from 9.3% to roughly 16% in 2023 — a roughly 70% improvement. Conversely, Apple’s share in China fell to 15.7% in Q1 of 2024 from 19.7% a year earlier, splitting the market virtually evenly with HUAWEI. Apple has since cut prices for Chinese customers to stay in the race.

If HUAWEI's climbing smartphone sales are anything to go by, the once-dominant AirPods Pro could be in trouble in China.

Other Western consumer electronics manufacturers fare worse than Apple. For example, Samsung recorded a $2.3 billion turnover for its Harman category in Q1 of 2024. Preliminary data from Sony’s recent Consolidated Financial Results shows that its Audio and Visual sales for Q1 of 2024 hit just over $0.5 billion. This seems markedly low. We must wait for more details when the company unveils its Q1 Earnings Announcements on August 7, 2024.

While HUAWEI’s geographical revenue stream has struggled since the US ban took effect in 2019, its domestic sales remain resilient. For example, the company earned $97 billion at home in 2023, with $35 billion generated specifically from its consumer business segment. This is up roughly 9.6% overall and 17% in its consumer category from a year earlier. Abroad, HUAWEI enjoyed an income of $6.6 billion across the Americas in 2018. This was even higher in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA,) reaching $28 billion. This fell sharply in 2020 though, hitting just $5.5 billion in the US and $25 billion across the EMEA respectively. In its most recent yearly accounting, HUAWEI raised just $4.9 billion in the States and just over $20 billion across the EMEA.

Time to Free(the)Buds?

The HUAWEI FreeBuds 5 offer an extremely comfortable fit.

It’s much more difficult to purchase HUAWEI products in the US than it used to be. However, fans outside the US and those who find a workaround may be pleased with what’s on offer. For example, HUAWEI’s latest FreeBuds 6i () have 11mm dynamic drivers and support the SBC, AAC, LDAC, and L2HC Bluetooth codecs. The last is HUAWEI’s proprietary connection and profits up to 960kbps, 44.1kHz/ 24-bit audio sampling. The buds also benefit from powerful noise canceling that attenuate an average of 27dB between 50Hz and 20kHz. They are also IP54-rated to protect against omnidirectional water splashes and small solid objects. The FreeBuds 6i last five hours with ANC enabled and benefit an extra 20 hours from the charging case. They also work with the HUAWEI AI Life app (Android/ iOS) to conduct firmware updates, edit the EQ, and customize controls.

It isn’t just in-ear buds that HUAWEI has to offer, though. The company’s recent FreeClip () open-ear buds are a spherical take on the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds. Wearing a similar clip-on design, the HUAWEI FreeClip leave your ears unoccluded to maintain situational awareness. This build is often more popular among athletes and cyclists than open-fit buds like the AirPods (3rd Generation) and HUAWEI FreeBuds 5. The FreeClip wear an IP54 water- and dust-resistant rating and weigh just 5.6g. The buds last eight hours on a single charge and the case profits an extra 24 hours of playtime. Those who frequently find themselves on Zoom calls will enjoy the buds’ ability to block out distracting environmental noises. Android and iOS fans can also download the HUAWEI AI Life app to install vital firmware updates and utilize other flagship features. Unfortunately, the buds do not support active noise canceling.

HUAWEI has many other offerings, including the FreeBuds Pro 3 () and FreeBuds SE 2 (.) The former adorn an AirPods Pro aesthetic and offer a list of pleasantries including powerful noise canceling, adaptive EQ, and four ear tip sizes. The latter are the company’s affordable alternative and profit an IP54 resistance rating, Bluetooth 5.3, nine hours of battery life, and compatibility with the HUAWEI AI Life app.

But what do you think? Is HUAWEI’s recent resurgence at home indicative of the company again emerging as an international contender in the headphone arena, or is it doomed until the US lifts its sanctions? Let us know in the poll below.

Loading poll

My view basically boils down to the fact that I’m not comfortable choosing convenience over reliability and quality — ever. Bluetooth headphones are often the disposable point-and-shoot of audio, the K-cup machine, the IKEA living room set. Sure, all those things appear to get the job done conveniently, but well? Not often.

I’m the dinosaur that still shoots with a full-frame DSLR. I roast my own coffee because I refuse to pay more for burnt beans. And if I need furniture: I build it out of mahogany, oak, or birch. Maybe you don’t have a lot in common with my worldview, but I think it’s pretty clear that the older, wired designs are still superior to wireless. At least, for now.

Editor’s note: this article was updated on July 31, 2024 to update links and language.

1) Wired headphones perform better than Bluetooth headphones

Bluetooth simply doesn’t have the bandwidth or the performance ceiling to keep up with the best wired headphones. That’s not to say that all wired headphones are better than all Bluetooth headphones. Oh no. But Bluetooth’s “lossless” options are still a few years out, or reliant on a very specific constellation of hardware to achieve. If you have an iPhone or older Android phone, you’re currently outta luck.

Pictured: headphones that will blow any pair of Bluetooth cans away with their audio quality.

Even if you do meet the above requirements, you’re going to struggle to find anything that competes with, say, a Sennheiser HD800. And you’d need a very loose definition of “competing.” Even though there are some really awesome Bluetooth headphones out there (see: Apple AirPods Max): those are the exception, not the rule.

Bluetooth does a really great job at transmitting “good enough” music for commuters, and that’s great — but it’s a pretty low bar to clear. Though most people can’t really tell the difference between a FLAC file and an MP3 file at 320kbps, the point here is that Bluetooth’s ceiling isn’t quite at CD quality just yet. MP3 compression may be able to maximize quality by deleting out sound we can’t hear, but you can definitely tell when you lose quality after a certain point.

In the future, wireless audio will easily beat the crap out of our current wired headphones where audio quality is concerned via digital audio transmission. However, that day isn’t today: and if you really want the best of digital audio, you need a cable — be it USB-C, Lightning, XLR, or preferably your standard 3.5mm. While there are codecs like aptX Lossless and LDAC that bear the “Hi-res certified” branding, the truth is they’re not actually lossless, however adamant that press material is on the point. Bluetooth just isn’t there yet.

2) Batteries are inconvenient and wasteful

Which will last longer, the latte or the battery?

Having yet another battery to charge is, in my professional opinion, an unacceptable pain in the ass. It’s also very bad for the environment!

Why on earth would you limit yourself that way, especially with the main instrument you use in situations like an airplane trip? You might find yourself without access to power, and welp: you’re outta luck. Sorry about that! While battery tech is getting better, there’s always that point where a cell will stop charging. When that happens, you need to be able to change out the battery — but unless you have a product like the Fairphone Fairbuds, you really can’t do that. At this point, your headphones are dead. If you could change out the battery easily this wouldn’t be an issue, but nope: the whole thing is garbage now.

That doesn’t even touch upon the issue that true wireless earphones in particular are strong drivers of e-waste. If you’ve ever had a set of true wireless earphones break on you, did you do the research to find the proper recycling facility, or did you just throw them away? Yeah, that’s what I thought. If you’re feeling bad about considering tossing your wireless earbuds, I suggest reaching out to a recycling service like Call2Recycle.

3) You’re paying extra when you don’t need to

Flickr user: reynermedia Don’t blow your cash when you don’t have to.

Bluetooth headphones in general are undeniably convenient when you discount the headaches associated with having to charge the damn thing. However, when you’re paying $50-100 more for the same set of headphones — and the wired version works just as well — you may want to just save the money to spend on better things.

Better things include:

• A good number of café trips
• Putting it into a Roth IRA
• Spring for a better streaming service
• Investing in a better phone
• Buying new music
• Showing that special someone you care
• A good bottle of whiskey

Everyone has that point where the extra cash is worth it for the convenience, but truthfully not everyone can throw around cash willy-nilly. Students, for example, should really be doing whatever they can to maximize their “textbook” budget — and $50 buys a lot of really cheap beer. While it’s tempting to really tee off on Apple right about now, I’m going to hold back because luxury products aren’t something you buy when you’re looking to save money. If you’re seriously considering the AirPods Max, cost is not really something I imagine you care too much about.

4) “Wireless” isn’t always a durability feature

In theory, the ability to ditch the wire — the most delicate and oft-broken part of any headphone anywhere — is a positive for durability and safety. And Bluetooth headphones seem to be the logical fulfillment of that idea. However, this problem can be side-stepped if headphone manufacturers use a removable cable. To wit, V-Moda, Sennheiser, Audio-Technica, Beats, Bose… and pretty much all of the major headphone companies use a removable cable on many of their non-Bluetooth headphones.

Removable cables are a lot more common nowadays.

But that doesn’t even address the other part of this issue: adding a battery and other sensitive electronics adds another point of failure. Ever drop a set of headphones or knock it off a table? I sure have. Ever stuff them in a bag and subsequently toss the bag onto a hard surface? Guilty. Banging around your Bluetooth headphones probably won’t kill them, but there’s more to break inside. If one of the solder points shatters, if the electronics break, or if — God forbid — the battery pulls a Note 7 on you: your headphones will die.

Wired headphones aren’t impervious to breakage, but they’re definitely much simpler (and cheaper) to fix with the right design.

5) Reliability

Bluetooth just isn’t as reliable as a directly wired connection, and that’s a big deal.

As with most machines, adding a link in the chain will often introduce potential points of failure, and Bluetooth headphones, in particular, add a point where the connection is subject to external factors not applicable to wired ones. Lots of things can affect whether your headphones will work the way you’ve come to expect them to, and the crappier Bluetooth headphones seem to consult a pantheon of frustration gods to decide how they’re going to tick you off on any given day.

Being in a room with too many other Bluetooth devices can affect your headphones, as can bad software. Maybe your phone is too old and your new headphones will only use an SBC profile instead of the A2DP or aptX you were promised. Maybe you’ll suffer packet loss for no discernible reason, and your music skips. There’s lots that can go wrong with a wireless connection.

Wired headphones don’t skip occasionally, nor are they hard to use with your source (assuming it has a jack). They don’t have trouble when there’s lots of other Bluetooth devices around, and they won’t default to a lower-quality standard of connection if your source is 2-3 years old. They may not be glamorous, but wired headphones are extremely reliable. They don’t have lots of points of failure, they’re cheap to fix, and they work.

For the above reasons and many more: wired headphones will always be king in my eyes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do you listen to music?

Workout buds should block out the noise around you and fit securely.

As they say in real estate: location, location, location. Where you listen to your music, podcasts, and audiobooks determines what kind of earbuds you should buy. Those who plan to listen to music while commuting by train or bus will want to prioritize active noise canceling (ANC). Likewise, gymgoers will enjoy noise canceling too.

Sitting on the opposite end of the spectrum, bike commuters and people who live in urban areas can safely navigate the world with open earbuds like the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 and rumored AirPods (4th generation). If you’re a proud homebody, you may not have a use for noise canceling and dislike the fit of open earbuds. In that case, the world is your oyster.

Your conference call attendees will appreciate you for buying earbuds with a high-quality mic.

Anyone who spends time in virtual meetings will want to invest in earbuds with a good microphone, which often cost at least $100. Of course, spending more than that doesn’t guarantee a good pair of buds, but spending less than that typically yields unimpressive microphone quality.

Where you listen to your music may also influence how often you use your earbuds. If you don’t plan to use your buds more than once a week, keep it simple. Get something cheap and effective like the Jlab JBuds Mini. You can probably spend less than $100. However, if you use your earbuds every day, multiple times a day, you may want to get a pricier pair.

No matter where you listen, you’ll have to consider many features before clicking a buy button.

What features do you want from your earbuds?

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra noise canceling earbuds feature wraparound fins help keep the buds in place during exercise.

Noise canceling is one of the hottest audio features, and expensive and cheap earbuds alike share this feature. A good pair of ANC earbuds can unplug you from outside distractions, allowing you to focus on your music. The Sony WF-1000X5, for instance, can reduce the loudness of low frequencies like the rumble of your train car up by about 88%. Of course, commuters, especially those who fly often, will want to get something comfortable. Comfort is notably more subjective than ANC. However, for the most comfortable fit, we recommend earbuds with memory foam ear tips. Some earbuds, like the WF-1000XM5, come with foam tips, but you can always buy a pair from Comply to fit whatever buds you’d like.

Typically, the more features you want out of your earbuds, the more expensive the price tag.

Similarly, if you listen in the gym, noise canceling may help block out background noise. I find ANC earbuds to be particularly good at hushing the low, unending groan of a treadmill. A good fit will also quiet the metallic “clang” that inevitably happens from people dropping weights.

The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 are a durable pair of earbuds and sadly, Jabra’s last pair of consumer buds.

Beyond ANC, gym rats and athletes at large will need to invest in durable earbuds. Fortunately, there’s an objective rating system that informs you of what conditions you can subject your earbuds to. A pair of durable earbuds will have an “Ingress Protection” (aka IP) rating. You can almost always find a pair of IPX4-rated earbuds in any price range. An IPX4 rating means your buds will resist water sprays from all directions. If you rock-climb or run on the beach, you may want to opt for earbuds with a dust-resistant rating too. A great example of durable earbuds are the IP57-rated Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2.

You should know that most wireless earbuds include a companion app for your phone. Nine times out of 10, you’ll need app access to enjoy 100% of your earbuds’ features. Once you get set up in the app, you can usually customize the sound, change the onboard controls, and more. Some of our favorite mobile earbud apps come from Sony, Jabra, and Nothing. All of these apps give you granular control over the multi-band custom EQ.

The Samsung Wearables app has a 9-band equalizer for the Galaxy Buds3 Pro.

Nearly all applications work equally well on iPhones as they do on Android phones. However, if you’re interested in the AirPods Pro or AirPods series, you’ll need an iPhone to access almost all the features. Apple reserves it’s (limited) customization options for its own hardware. Through the iOS or iPadOS Settings apps, you can personalize the Spatial Audio effect, customize the onboard controls, toggle auto-ear detection on/off, and more. Plus, Apple hides some of its best AirPods features in the Accessibility menu within the Settings app.

Do you have an iPhone or Android phone?

Android phones have more Blueooth codecs to choose from than iPhones.

Not only does smartphone compatibility determine app features and access, but it also affects Bluetooth audio quality. Different smartphones support different Bluetooth codes. The better the codec, the better your wireless audio quality. LHDC is one of the best Bluetooth codecs you can use regarding sound quality and lag (or lack thereof), but relatively few devices support it compared to other high-end Bluetooth codecs like aptX and LDAC. Android supports a variety of Bluetooth codecs, while Apple only supports two (SBC and AAC). All Bluetooth-enabled devices must support SBC, so it’s no boon for Apple, and AAC is quite good, but its transfer rates can’t hold a candle to LHDC.

Investing in earbuds that can make use of high-quality Bluetooth codecs is worthwhile for anyone. We especially recommend high-quality codec support to listeners who want the best audio quality from their earbuds. Gamers can also benefit from the virtually imperceptible lag that comes from high-quality Bluetooth codecs.

How much do earbuds normally cost?

The cost of earbuds and headphones can ramp up quickly, but just breathe. You don’t have to overspend to get good buds for your needs.

Once you’ve narrowed down the factors above, you can start to narrow down the price range. Budget earbuds usually cost less than $100; mid-range buds are between $100 and $200; and top-tier earbuds will run you more than $200.

Budget earbuds will usually have okay sound and call quality. You might find noise canceling on budget buds, but more often than not, it will do very little to quiet the sounds of your environment. The fit can be hit or miss because ergonomics often take a backseat to other features. Buds at the lower end of this price range often won’t have an app. A great budget option are the Moondrop Space Travel ().

You can toy with the smart case to control your earbuds in your phone’s stead.

Midrange earbuds are my favorite, because they cover all bases, bringing a whole lot of value to the table. You’ll start to find better build quality, very good sound quality, solid mic quality, and useful mobile applications. Examples of excellent midrange earbuds: Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro () and JBL Live Beam 3 ().

Last but not least, you have the best earbuds money can buy at $200 and up. At this price point, expect advanced ANC, very comfortable designs, wireless charging, and other premium features like multipoint connectivity. Premium earbuds are for listeners who want cutting-edge tech, price be damned. For this category, we recommend the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) () for iPhone owners, and Sony WF-1000XM5 () for Android users.

By listing out your needs and being true to them, you can find the perfect buds without breaking the bank.

Frequently asked questions about the cost of earbuds

Editor’s note: this list was published on July 29, 2024, and is the first version of the article. Updates will follow as the market changes.

Best portable speaker with a handle: Anker Soundcore Motion X500

The Motion X500’s aluminum handle makes it easy to tote around.

The Anker Soundcore Motion X500 stands out as one of the best portable speakers, particularly because of its sturdy handle. It offers a perfect balance of power and portability. Its unique three-driver design, including two forward-facing drivers and one upward-facing driver, delivers an impressive 40 watts of stereo sound that punches above its weight class.

With Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, support for high-quality codecs like LDAC and AAC, and an IPX7 waterproof rating, it’s ready for both indoor and outdoor adventures. The Motion X500’s premium build, featuring lightweight aluminum construction, ensures durability without sacrificing mobility. Add in the customizable EQ via the companion app, backlit controls for ease of use, and a 12-hour battery life, and you have a versatile speaker that caters to audiophiles and casual listeners alike, all at a competitive price point.

Best portable speaker you don’t have to carry: JBL Clip 5

It wouldn’t be a Clip without its signature built-in carabiner.

The JBL Clip 5 stands out as one of the best portable speakers, particularly because you don’t have to carry it, thanks to its built-in carabiner. This ultra-compact speaker is designed for adventure, featuring an upgraded IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, making it ideal for outdoor excursions. With improved sound quality, delivering 7W of output from its 1.75″ driver, the Clip 5 offers a noticeable audio upgrade from its predecessor.

The addition of JBL Portable app support brings customizable EQ options and the ability to link with other compatible JBL speakers. Its 12-hour battery life, Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, and multipoint connection feature further enhance its versatility. Whether clipped to a backpack, hung from a tree branch, or resting on a surface, the JBL Clip 5 proves to be a rugged, portable powerhouse that punches above its weight in both sound quality and convenience.

Best portable speaker with bass: Beats Pill

The Beats Pill has an impressive bass output for its size.

The Beats Pill stands out as one of the best portable speakers for bass enthusiasts, delivering impressive low-end output that defies its compact size. This revamped classic combines powerful sound with modern features, making it a versatile choice for various settings. The Pill boasts an IP67 dust and water resistance rating, ensuring durability for outdoor adventures. With an exceptional 24-hour battery life, it outlasts many competitors in its class.

The speaker excels in bass reproduction, providing a rich, full sound that’s particularly noticeable even at lower volumes. Its 20-degree tilt design optimizes sound projection, while fast pairing and cross-platform compatibility with both iOS and Android devices enhance its user-friendliness. Despite some limitations at higher volumes, the Beats Pill’s robust bass performance, coupled with its portability and feature set, makes it an attractive option for those seeking a bass-heavy sound in a compact package.

Best waterproof portable speaker: JBL Charge 5

The JBL Charge 5 features an IP67 protection rating.

The JBL Charge 5 stands out as one of the best waterproof and durable portable speakers, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. With its robust IP67 rating, this speaker is not only waterproof but also dustproof, capable of withstanding submersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. Its rugged design, featuring durable fabric and protective silicon bumpers, ensures it can handle the rigors of outdoor use.

The Charge 5 delivers impressive sound quality with clear vocals and powerful bass, thanks to its long-excursion driver, separate tweeter, and dual passive radiators. With a 20-hour battery life and the ability to charge other devices via its USB-A port, it’s a versatile companion for extended outings. The speaker’s PartyBoost feature allows connection with up to 100 compatible JBL speakers for an even bigger sound. While it’s bulkier than some portable options, the JBL Charge 5’s combination of durability, sound quality, and features make it an excellent choice for those seeking a rugged, waterproof speaker for their outdoor activities.

Best small portable speaker: JBL Go 4

A portable speaker that fits in the palm of your hand.

The JBL Go 4 stands out as one of the best compact portable speakers, offering impressive features in a tiny package. Weighing less than a pound and small enough to fit in a back pocket, it’s the epitome of ultra-portability. The Go 4 boasts an upgraded IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, making it ideal for outdoor adventures or even as a shower speaker. Its durable design now includes additional silicone protection around the edges, enhancing its ruggedness.

A significant improvement over its predecessor is the support for the JBL Portable app, which provides a 5-band customizable EQ for personalized sound tuning. Despite its small size, the Go 4 delivers decent audio quality, especially after tweaking the EQ settings. With Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity and multipoint connection support, it offers versatile pairing options.

The speaker provides 7 hours of playback time, an improvement from the previous model. Additional features like the ability to pair with other JBL speakers for a larger sound and its affordable price point make the JBL Go 4 an excellent choice for those seeking a highly portable, durable, and feature-rich compact speaker.

Need to bring more bass? The Soundcore Boom 2 Plus is bigger but still portable

You’re already halfway to the party with the Boom 2 Plus

The Anker Soundcore Boom 2 Plus is an excellent choice for those who need more bass in a still-portable package. This speaker packs a serious punch with its dual 4.5-inch woofers and two 1-inch tweeters, delivering up to 140 watts of power. Its “BassUP 2.0” technology boosts the low-end significantly, making it perfect for outdoor parties and beach gatherings. Despite its larger size, the Boom 2 Plus remains portable with a sturdy handle and removable carrying strap.

It’s built to withstand the elements with an IPX7 water-resistance rating and even floats, making it ideal for poolside or beach use. The speaker also features customizable LED lights on its passive radiators, adding a visual element to your music. With a 20-hour battery life, companion app support for EQ customization, and the ability to connect with up to 100 other compatible speakers, the Soundcore Boom 2 Plus offers a powerful, feature-rich audio experience for those who want big sound in a portable format.

The best portable speakers: Notable mentions

The Bose Portable Smart Speaker is compact and lightweight enough to easily tote around with one hand.

• Anker Soundcore Motion 300 (): The Anker Soundcore Motion 300 is a budget-friendly audio adventure companion. Featuring an IPX7 protection rating and decent sound in a durable, compact package, you don’t have to think twice before tossing this speaker into your backpack or gear bin for a weekend getaway.
• Bose Portable Smart Speaker (): The Bose Portable Smart Speaker works well and has impressive bass for such a small speaker. You can indeed take it around with you — even outside on a picnic, thanks to its water-resistant build. It works with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can pick the smart assistant you want.
• Bose SoundLink Flex (): The Bose SoundLink Flex makes for a good hiking or shower companion and delivers playback that distinguishes vocals and instruments well, making it a solid pick for adventures who want something rugged and loud.
• JBL Flip 6 (): Hikers, bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts are sure to appreciate the- IP67 rating when they take the Flip 6 out and about. Similarly, shower singers will also enjoy the loud output from the Flip 6 that overcomes ambient sounds. Anyone who wants an easy-to-use Bluetooth speaker will get JBL’s speaker to work in no time.
• Sonos Roam 2 (): The Sonos Roam 2 has a portable-friendly size and build with great sound to boot.  Existing Sonos users will benefit from their home smart setup reaching a little further. Still, with its new Bluetooth connection option, anyone can use it as a standalone Bluetooth speaker for their next adventure without relying on the finicky Sonos app.

What you should know about portable Bluetooth speakers

Portable speakers come in all shapes and sizes.

Durability

When it comes to portable speakers, durability is key. Look for speakers with IP ratings that indicate water and dust resistance. IPX7 or higher is ideal for waterproof speakers that can withstand submersion, while IP67 offers both water and dust protection. Rugged designs with rubberized exteriors or impact-resistant materials are also beneficial for outdoor use.

Battery life

Battery life varies widely among portable speakers. Consider how you’ll use the speaker — if you’re planning long beach days or camping trips, opt for models offering 15+ hours of playtime. Some speakers also double as power banks, allowing you to charge your other devices.

Connectivity

Most portable speakers use Bluetooth for wireless connectivity. Look for Bluetooth 5.0 or higher for improved range and stability. Some speakers offer additional connection options like aux-in ports or NFC pairing for added versatility.

Sound quality

While portable speakers have come a long way, they still have limitations due to their size. Bass response is often the biggest challenge. Some speakers use passive radiators or “bass boost” features to enhance low-end performance. Consider speaker size and driver configuration when evaluating sound quality.

Additional features

Many portable speakers now come with companion apps for EQ adjustment, firmware updates, and additional features. Some offer speakerphone functionality, voice assistant integration, or the ability to pair multiple speakers for stereo sound or larger parties.

How we test portable speakers

At SoundGuys, we put every portable speaker through a standardized testing process to ensure our recommendations are based on objective data and real-world performance. Our testing includes:

• Output measurements to determine maximum volume and distortion levels
• Battery life testing under standardized conditions
• Durability tests to verify manufacturer claims about water and dust resistance
• Subjective listening tests in various environments to assess real-world performance

For a more detailed look at our testing methodologies, check out our How We Test page and our article on why we test.

How we choose the best portable speakers

When selecting the best portable speakers, we consider a combination of factors:

• Sound quality: We prioritize speakers that offer balanced, clear audio across a wide range of music genres.
• Durability: Given their portable nature, we favor speakers with robust build quality and weather resistance.
• Battery life: Longer playtime is always better, but we also consider charging speed and power bank functionality.
• Features: We look for useful additions like app support, multi-speaker pairing, and voice assistant integration.
• Value: We consider the overall package and price point to ensure our recommendations offer good value for money.

Why you should trust SoundGuys

The Pill is small and durable enough to take on most summer adventures.

At SoundGuys, our team combines years of audio engineering experience with rigorous testing protocols to deliver accurate, unbiased reviews. We don’t just rely on marketing claims — we verify performance through our own measurements and real-world testing.

Our editorial independence is paramount. We never accept payment for positive coverage, and our writers are prohibited from owning stock in audio companies. This ensures that our recommendations are based solely on product merit, not financial incentives.

Please visit our Ethics Policy page for a deeper look into our ethics policy and how we maintain our integrity.

Frequently asked questions

It’s been a while since Google dropped the Pixel Buds Pro, and it looks like the wait for a new pair of wireless earbuds is almost over. With the Pixel 9 series set to debut at Google’s August 13 launch event, rumor mills are churning about the possibility of the Pixel Buds Pro 2 making an appearance. Now we even have a fresh leak about how much Google’s next flagship earbuds could cost.

The good folks over at Dealabs have managed to snag not just the EU price but also the US and UK prices for the Pixel Buds Pro 2. If their info is on the money, the Buds Pro 2 will set you back $229 in the US, €249 in the EU, and £219 in the UK. Compared to the first-gen Buds Pro, that’s a bit of a price hike — $30 more in the US, €20 more in the EU, and £20 more in the UK.

Today’s leak also suggests that the official color names for the Buds Pro 2 will be Hazel, Porcelain, Wintergreen, and Peony.

Earlier this week, we got a glimpse of the Pixel Buds Pro 2’s design and color options, courtesy of Android Headlines. From the looks of it, the new earbuds will sport the same case design as the original Buds Pro, with a few tweaks to the earbuds themselves, including a winged design.

The last Pixel Buds Pro were always getting discounts, so we were hoping these new ones would be a good deal right out of the gate. But it looks like Google has gone in the opposite direction. Let’s hope that the buds come packed with some serious upgrades in sound quality and ANC to make that price bump worth it.

In terms of what else we know, a regulatory listing from UL Demko and Safety Korea suggests that the charging case’s battery capacity could jump to 650mAh, compared to the original’s 620mAh. We’re still in the dark about other specs, but given the steady flow of leaks, more details are probably just around the corner.

Define “best”

If I could put my finger on why the question is so tough to answer, it’s like asking someone what the best car or power tool is; there’s so much information that’s missing from the question that it becomes hard to answer. What are the best headphones? Is it what sounds the best? What about features? Do you have the right phone? Must the best headphones have a certain feature? The list goes on.

There’s no such thing as best, and it’s time to stop pretending that there is.

There should be no greater clue to the lack of the “best” headphones out there than the constant bickering and user reviews on YouTube. If there were a set of “best” headphones, it would not be so difficult to figure it out. There are a fair number of experienced journalists, engineers, and enthusiasts all chasing that dragon — so there would be a lot less confusion around the issue if such a thing existed. The simple truth is there isn’t a “best” set of headphones, there’s only a “best” set for your needs at any given time.

Normally, I try to answer this question by starting a conversation, but in my experience, people generally want an immediate answer. The sheer number of people treating our FAQ submission tool as a search engine is a testament to that. Sometimes, they simply want confirmation that the popular headphones du jour are what they should buy (Beats, AirPods, etc.), or hope you know about a product that doesn’t exist offering ANC, stellar audio, and impossible features that only costs $10. Everybody wants a unicorn, but sadly, they don’t exist.

Are the most expensive headphones not the best? Why spend so much money on them, then?

It may sound as if I’m being unfair, but it’s worth considering that asking someone out of the clear blue sky, “What’s the best ice cream flavor?” or “What’s the best Rush album?” is a bit of a tall ask. So, in a product category with as much diversity as personal audio has, how is asking “What are the best headphones?” any different?

It’s not.

To ask the right questions, you should be asking yourself first:

1. How do you want to use your headphones? Working out? Travel? Critical listening?
2. What headphones have you tried that sounded great to you?
3. Is there something you absolutely need your headphones or earbuds to do?

After you’ve answered those questions, think to yourself: is everyone on this planet going to use their headphones or earbuds in exactly the same way? If not, you’ve discovered why there’s no such thing as the “best headphones.”

It’s a matter of taste

Now that headphones are used in many more contexts by many more people than simply listening to music, so too have the demands on earbuds and headphones. Over the last twenty years, headphones went from a wired-only affair with very few models requiring any sort of advanced processing power to where we are now. Most of the earbuds that cross my desk are wireless ANC models with new features like spatial audio with head tracking, or adaptive ANC, or even some that measure your ear canal and adjust their sound that way. The days of simple headphones that do one thing are gone.

I miss when headphones simply needed a wire to connect.

So when you’re faced with the idea that headphones need to do lots of different things, get ready to understand that not every product out there is going to do what you want it to. In a world where there’s so much to choose from, paradoxically, there’s less that will suit your demands as those demands get increasingly granular. Our recommendations can change depending on what kind of phone you have, where you listen to your music, or even what you do at work. These can all affect what we tell you to look for in a personal audio product.

You’d be surprised how often something like “not having adequate water resistance” or having the right flavor of spatial audio has swayed my personal recommendations. Even having the wrong phone processor is swaying my recommendations now. It’s exhausting!

Some people like less bass, others people want their inner ear bones rattled into powder — what people like varies.

Even if it was just down to sound quality, that, too, is a loaded subject. Even though there’s a certain kind of sound that we prefer, that’s not going to be everyone’s cup of tea. In fact, one of the things we learned from independent listening tests is that lots of people prefer very different sounds, even if they can largely agree on a preference curve that is a bit different than what they like the most. Some people like less bass, and other people want their inner ear bones rattled into powder. While most tuning preferences will center around some identifiable characteristics, what people like varies. We routinely review headphones that score well on the best approximation we have for measuring sound quality at present, but our reviewers are looking for something else.

Preference curves are very different, and what you prefer might not align with any.

What about a standard response? A preference curve like the Harman Target describes what most people will rate positively — but meeting a preference curve isn’t going to guarantee that every person out there would prefer that kind of sound to any others. It may even be a moving target (if you’ll excuse the pun). If you dig into the scores different preference curves earn from large groups of listeners, you’ll see that none really approach a perfect 100; even the best-rated preference curves bounce around 60-70 percent listener preference. Though it’s true that these preference curves can help us contextualize how headphones sound, meeting them is no guarantee that you, personally, will like the sound.

Big tech has skin in the game

One of the more frustrating developments in personal audio was the entrance of big tech into the category. Sure, these megacorps have added a lot of really cool features and produced many of the most beloved personal audio products out there — but the development has also introduced the concept of walled gardens to a segment that used to be more or less universally compatible.

These things changed the course of audio, whether you like it or not.

Though large companies have guided the development of personal audio since the very beginning, the market has never been more fractured than it is now. When Apple bought Beats, it shifted the landscape of headphones and earbuds forever. Though heavyweights like Sony and Panasonic had long since been major players in audio, a computing company that popularized the smartphone was now turning the segment into an extension of a larger one. We’re starting to see more and more personal audio products locked to source hardware than ever before. For example: AirPods simply don’t have the same features unless you use them with an iOS device, and Samsung earbuds have lots of cool AI features — but only if you have a new Samsung phone.

Live translation is cool, but you’ll need to choose your earbuds based on the platform that supports it.

The profit motive does bad things to a market, especially when there’s money to be made by shutting the door on interoperability or user maintenance. I’m not saying that headphones are getting enshittified, just that there’s little motivation to spend the extra money required to make sure your products don’t generate sales for your other wares. It’s not surprising that earbuds and headphones are more “disposable” than ever, because that’s just the most efficient way to make money from them. This is fundamentally at odds with someone looking to make a smart and savvy purchase.

Since the market dominance of true wireless earbuds, headphone and earbud designs have become nearly impossible for normal people to fix themselves. It used to be that you could swap out batteries to ANC headphones, or order replacement drivers for headphones that gave up the ghost, but no more. It’s much less profitable for a company to allow maintenance of their products when forcing consumers to buy a whole new one would be better for the bottom line. There’s a reason why we’ve only seen one set of earbuds with a removable battery housing, and it’s not one of the top manufacturers out there.

Stop worrying about the best headphones: what’s going to make you happy?

Listen to your media, not your headphones.

It should come as no surprise, then, that what people consider to be the “best” is now going to be a much more loaded question. There’s not an easy answer out there, but there are potentially hundreds of products that fit the bill. Instead of chasing what’s best, try to figure out what’s best for you, or at least realize that pure satisfaction may never come. You know that old saying “perfect is the enemy of good?” That’s what you should be keeping in mind while searching for headphones. Remember, buying headphones isn’t going to make you happy for the long haul, but it is a great tool to help you experience art.

Being happy with what you have will allow you to do more meaningful things like find new music, enjoy your gaming, or have a better workout. The goal shouldn’t be to buy a status symbol or what other people think you should have, but to get the right tool for the job. Only when you look at buying headphones through that lens does the way forward get clearer. If you’re able to narrow down what you want, we have more than a few recommendations for you to explore.

Editor’s note: this article was published on July 26th, 2024, and is the first version. Updates will follow as the market changes.

What’s it like to use the Beats Pill compared to the Sonos Roam 2?

The Beats Pill and Sonos Roam 2 are competent but different portable Bluetooth speakers. The Pill is a bit larger, weighing 680g, while Roam 2 is much lighter at 430g. Both speakers feature a relatively sleek and packable design and an IP67 protection rating, making them dust and waterproof.

Of course, the big difference lies in the tech. While the bigger Beats Pill is a beach party starter with straightforward operation, the Sono Roam 2 is a smart speaker capable of starting or integrating into an entire Sonos ecosystem. It also offers voice commands via Sonos Voice Control or Amazon Alexa, and its slender size makes it easy to move from room to room around the house.

With its updated Bluetooth connectivity, the Roam 2 can function as a dead simple stand-alone Bluetooth speaker without relying on the Sonos app. A welcome update, but if you’re shelling out for a smart speaker, you’ll likely want to take advantage of the available tech.

How do you control the Beats Pill and Sonos Roam 2?

Both units feature tactile controls that offer a satisfying click when pushed. The Beats Pill has recessed buttons along the top, and the Roam 2 has a control panel integrated into one of its rubberized end caps. Of course, you can also control some of the Roam 2’s features via the Sonos app or voice commands.

Should you use the apps of either the Beats Pill or Sonos Roam 2?

The Beats Pill only offers an app for Android users and doesn’t even contain an equalizer. If you’re an iPhone user, the software is conveniently baked into the Setting app on iOS, but you still don’t get an equalizer.

While the new Sonos Roam 2 can be used as a standalone Bluetooth speaker without the app, you will need to download and install it to take advantage of all its smart features, such as Wi-Fi connection, configure your voice control, and integration into an existing Sonos setup. You can also take advantage of and personalize your sound a bit with the better-than-nothing Bass and Treble sliders.

How do the Beats Pill and Sonos Roam 2 connect?

The Beats Pill connects to your device via Bluetooth 5.3 and is SBC and AAC, but supports lossless listening over USB-C connection. It’s a cool feature, but portable Bluetooth speakers aren’t exactly ideal for critical listening.

The Sonos Roam 2 connects to your device via Bluetooth 5.2 and is also SBC and AAC only. However, as a smart speaker, it also offers a Wi-Fi connection for higher-quality audio streams and supports Apple Airplay 2.

Does the Beats Pill sound better than the Sonos Roam 2?

The Beats Pill puts out an impressive amount of bass for a portable speaker.

Getting down to the brass tacks, if you’re looking for a party speaker for the backyard or the beach, the Beats Pill annihilates the Roam 2 when it comes to low-end bass response. Listening to Night Train by Code Elektro, there is clearly no contest. The Pill provides a steady pulse of the synthesized bass on this track, even at lower volumes. It has enough output to keep a medium-sized gathering going, but you’ll start hearing some distortion past 80% volume. If your friends are known to get a little rowdy, consider buying a second Pill and running them in stereo for more party-filling power.

While the Pill wins regarding bass response, the Roam 2 does a much better job reproducing mid-range frequencies. This is apparent when changing the genre and listening to Sun Goddess by Ramsay Lewis. While the groove is there, the percussive strumming of the rhythm guitar cuts through with better clarity, not to mention the vocals sound much more present in the mix. If you’re not concerned with a thumping bass response while casually listening to music in the kitchen while making dinner, the Roam 2 is still a decent-sounding speaker with good instrument separation.

Should you get the Beats Pill or Sonos Roam 2?

The larger size of the Beats Pill gives it an advantage in performance.

If you’re an existing Sonos user, snagging a Roam 2 is a no-brainer. It will easily integrate into your home system, and you’ll have a decent-sounding speaker to extend its reach around the house or into your backyard. If you’re considering getting into the world of smart speakers, the Sonos Roam 2 makes a great choice to get your toes wet without going overboard.

However, the Beats Pill is an undeniable choice if you’re looking to start your party. It’s durable, has excellent battery life, and has tons of bass. What else do you need? You won’t have to deal with a buggy companion app either, so you can focus on having a good time with your pals.

What should you get instead of the Beats Pill and Sonos Roam 2?

If you like the size and packability of the Roam 2 but aren’t interested in its smart features, consider the JBL Flip 6 () and save a few bucks. It’s IP67, has a robust build, and has a decent bass response. That said, the Beats Pill puts out way more low-end than the Flip 6.

If you like the Beats Pill’s more prominent size and sound, you’ll want to size up and look at the JBL Charge 5 (). It also features an IP67 protection rating and is closer in battery life to the Pill, advertising 20 hours of playback. It also features a courtesy outlet for charging any devices in the field.

Frequently asked questions

Results

On our website, 682 readers participated in the poll. A staggering 72% of respondents said they were crushed by Jabra closing up shop. This strong emotional response underscores Jabra’s impact on its loyal customer base. An additional 22% acknowledged that Jabra’s products were pretty good, bringing the total positive sentiment to 94%.

Our YouTube poll, which garnered 668 votes, showed a more diverse range of opinions but still demonstrated significant support for the brand. Here, 18% of voters expressed being crushed by the news, while 35% agreed that Jabra’s products were pretty good. Combined, 53% of YouTube respondents showed a positive attitude towards the brand.

Interestingly, the YouTube poll revealed a higher percentage of users who were less affected by Jabra’s exit. 28% said they wouldn’t really miss the brand, while 19% weren’t familiar with Jabra at all. This difference could be attributed to the broader audience on YouTube compared to our website’s more audio-focused readership.

When we combine the results from both polls, the overall sentiment becomes clear:

Most of you will miss Jabra, too.

• Strong emotional attachment: 45% of all respondents (across both platforms) expressed being deeply affected by Jabra’s departure.
• Positive brand perception: An additional 28.5% acknowledged Jabra’s quality, even if they weren’t as emotionally invested.
• Limited impact: 16% of total respondents won’t miss the brand significantly.
• Brand awareness: 10.5% were unfamiliar with Jabra, highlighting the challenges the company faced in achieving widespread recognition.

While the Jabra may not have achieved the household name status of giants like Apple or Sony, it clearly cultivated a dedicated fan base who appreciated its innovation, quality, and value for money. From pioneering early models to pushing the popularity of features like Bluetooth Multipoint and workout-friendly designs, Jabra has cemented a legacy in portable audio.

As Jabra exits the consumer earbuds market with its final offerings—the Elite 10 Gen 2 and Elite 8 Active Gen 2—many audio enthusiasts will feel the loss. As the audio world moves forward, it will be interesting to see how the gap left by Jabra will be filled.

Comments