The best AirPods alternatives to save money

AirPods are designed to work perfectly with the Apple ecosystem, but if you’re looking for a cheaper, but equally valid alternative, you’ve come to the right place!

What are the best, cheap AirPods alternatives

Sony WF-1000XM4: Despite the release of the new Sony WF-1000XM5, the WF-1000XM4 are still, in 2023, one of the best alternatives to AirPods. These Sony True Wireless headphones offer excellent sound quality while also providing effective active noise cancellation. They incorporate Adaptive Sound Control technology that automatically detects the context and adjusts the ambient noise. Unlike the previous model, the WF-1000XM4 are compatible with the LDAC codec and boast of offering Hi-Res Audio listening, as well as spatial sound thanks to 360 Reality Audio technology. Through the companion app, you can set the level of active noise reduction to your liking. In terms of the Sony WF-1000XM4’s battery life, it is 8 hours with noise reduction turned on and about 12 hours without. With the wireless charging case, you can get three charging cycles, or about 24 hours of total autonomy.

Anker Soundcore Liberty 3 Pro: If you’re looking for a good value, the Liberty Air 3 Pro by Soundcore offers some nice improvements over the previous model for less than 140€. For this price, you get a balanced sound, active noise cancellation and good comfort. This model is compatible with the AAC, SBC and LDAC codecs. In terms of battery life, they perform quite well and offer up to 8 hours of listening without ANC. The box allows you to charge them three times, giving you a total battery life of around 24 hours without going through a power source. Finally, their silicone tips available in different sizes allow for a good fit in the ears.

Huawei Freebuds Pro 2: launched in June 2022, the second generation of Freebuds Pro presents itself as an alternative to Apple’s AirPods Pro. The two headphones also look quite similar from certain angles. Designed in collaboration with Devialet, they improve on multiple levels compared to the first generation. The sound quality is still convincing, as is the build quality and ergonomics. They are equipped with silicone tips of three different sizes for optimal comfort. These headphones are also Hi-Res Audio certified and compatible with the LDAC codec. You will benefit from intelligent noise reduction up to 47 dB. The battery life is relatively low compared to the competition. Expect 4 hours with ANC and 6.5 hours without ANC. With the wireless charging case, the battery life increases up to a maximum of 30 hours.