The best wireless earbuds of 2026

NBC Select independently determines what we cover and recommend. When you click on or buy through our links, we earn a commission. Learn more.AudioI’ve tested over 50 wireless earbuds — here are the best for fitness, noise-cancelling and moreMy top picks include brands like Bose, Apple and more.Updated July 7, 2026, 4:27 PM EDTHarry RabinowitzTech ReporterSkip to table of contentsAll my recommendations are wireless, portable and come with a small charging case.Courtesy Harry RabinowitzIn this articleOur top picksThe best wireless earbudsOther notable earbuds I testedHow I test wireless earbudsHow to shop for wireless earbudsWhy trust NBC Select?See 3 MoreAs NBC Select’s tech reporter, I test earbuds on a monthly basis and have tried more than 50 options for this story. I use wireless earbuds constantly to tune out noise on the subway, to listen to a podcast, take calls at work, listen to music while I work out — I always have a pair in my backpack or my pocket.With so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which model is best for you and your needs. Below, I rounded up the best wireless earbuds for various activities and budgets so you can find a pair that most suits your lifestyle.Selected.Our top picksBest for iPhoneApple AirPods Pro 3$220.00$249.00AmazonLearn moreBest for AndroidGoogle Pixel Buds Pro 2$226.68$229.00AmazonLearn moreBest budgetAnker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC$69.99$99.99AmazonLearn moreBest noise cancellationBose Quiet Comfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)$undefined$299.00AmazonLearn moreBest for fitnessBeats Powerbeats Fit$199.95$199.99AmazonLearn moreBest open earShokz OpenFit 2$139.95$179.95AmazonLearn moreSee 3 MoreRelatedselectselectI’ve tested dozens of workout headphones: These are the bestWant more from NBC Select? Sign up for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter.The best wireless earbudsAfter testing dozens of earbuds, my top picks came from brands like Apple, Google, Beats, Bose and Shokz. Every option on this list were sampl...