Choosing the right audio gear can feel overwhelming with so many options available. This year, I've tested countless true wireless earbuds, wireless headphones, and wired in-ear monitors to bring you my top picks for 2024. From budget-friendly champions that punch far above their weight, to premium options delivering exceptional sound quality, this guide covers a range of price points and styles to suit diverse listening preferences and needs. Whether you prioritize value, sound fidelity, comfort, or a blend of features, you'll find recommendations to help you elevate your audio experience.My selections represent the best in class across different categories. I'll be highlighting standout performers, discussing what makes them exceptional, and offering alternatives for listeners with specific requirements. Prepare to discover earbuds that deliver incredible sound despite their affordable price tags, headphones that rival high-end models, and wired IEMs that offer exceptional audio quality. Let's dive into the best audio gear 2024 has to offer.
Pros And Cons
- Versatility and quality
- MMCX and 2-pin interchangeable connectors
- Supports most IEMs
- Low noise floor
- Qualcomm chip for Bluetooth, aptX Adaptive, LDAC, and LHDC
- Sirus Logic master high-fi chip for DAC
- Separate amplifier chip with hardware-based volume control
- Drives high-end IEMs
- 7 hours playtime, 4 additional charges in case
- Wireless charging
- Stylish case
- Good sound quality
- Comes with a hard case
- Larger soundstage with similar detail retrieval
- Customizable in user-friendly app
- Good battery life (55 hours with ANC on)
- Good ANC and transparency
- Comfortable to wear
- Multipoint and LDAC support
- Good value
- Best balance between aluminum build, spacious and detailed sound quality
- Good EQ presets in app
- Surprisingly amazing mic quality
- LDAC and multipoint connection
- ANC and transparency are not its strongest points
- Good sound quality
- Perfect controls
- Multi-point connection
Read more: EPZ P50 In-Ear Monitor Review: A Breakout Performer?
Best True Wireless Earbuds: The Surprisingly Amazing EarFun Free 2
The true wireless earbud market is flooded with excellent options, making it hard to choose just one. Many offer fantastic sound, seamless controls, and multi-point connectivity. While I used to rely on my AirPods Pro 2, I've since moved on.
My top pick for 2024, however, is the surprisingly affordable EarFun Free 2. At only $60, it punches well above its weight. It boasts an aluminum build, spacious and detailed sound quality, and surprisingly great mic quality.
It features LDAC and multi-point connection. Although ANC and transparency aren't its strongest suits, the value is unparalleled. I'll be doing a full review soon, so stay tuned!
Best Wireless Headphones: EarFun Air Pro HD's Unbeatable Value
In the wireless headphone category, I've tested many, but the EarFun Air Pro HD stands out. Priced at just $80 (or even less in some regions), it comes with a hard case—a rare find at this price point.
What truly impresses is the exceptional sound quality; it even surpasses my Bose QC Ultras, offering a wider soundstage and similar detail retrieval. The user-friendly app allows for customization.
Long battery life (55 hours with ANC), excellent ANC and transparency modes, and a comfortable design make this a winner. It also supports multipoint connection and LDAC. For pure value, this is unmatched.
Best Wired IEMs: Moondrop Blessing 3's Pristine Sound
Choosing a favorite wired IEM is tough, given the plethora of options. I've sampled many, but my personal pick is the Moondrop Blessing 3. Its clean, punchy bass and overall sound signature closely match my preferences.
While the Moondrop Dusk might be a better option for some due to its EQ capabilities, the Blessing 3 consistently delivers a smile-inducing listening experience. Its sound quality is exceptional, and it remains a go-to choice for me.
For budget-conscious listeners, the $60 Truthear Zero is another solid choice, offering a warmer sound signature with remarkable balance. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual sound preferences.
Bonus: The iFi Go Blu - A Wireless Upgrade for Your Wired IEMs
If you want to wirelessly connect your wired IEMs, the iFi Go Blu is a game-changer. Unlike budget wireless adapters, it offers exceptional versatility and quality.
It supports both MMCX and 2-pin connectors, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of IEMs. Its high-fidelity components (Qualcomm chip for Bluetooth, Sirrus Logic DAC, separate amplifier) deliver superb sound quality.
With features like LDAC, aptX Adaptive, and a long battery life (7 hours + 4 charges in the case), the iFi Go Blu is a premium choice for wirelessly enjoying high-quality audio from your wired IEMs.