OVERALL

SPECS

VS AVERAGE

REVIEWS

ALTERNATIVES

Apple Earpods Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£20
Avg. price in US: ~$20
Form factor: earbud
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Apple Earpods review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

4.0

Poor

4.0

Poor

?

2.1
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
0.0
Audio latency
25.0%
0.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
1.0
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
0.0
Battery life
2.1
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
10
Weight
16.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
0.0
Ambient sound mode
2.7
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
14.0%
0.0
Companion app
7.0
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
10
Weight
24.0%
9.0
Water resistance
20.0%
4.0
IP rating
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
12.0%
10
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

Verdict

Apple EarPods are lightweight, wired earbuds featuring a unique geometric design for comfort and dynamic drivers engineered to deliver high-quality audio with deep, rich bass. They offer a frequency response range of 20Hz–20kHz and include an integrated in-line remote for controlling volume, media playback, and calls via a built-in microphone. Available with USB-C, Lightning, or 3.5mm connectors, they provide a plug-and-play experience with zero latency and no battery requirements. Key pros include their ultra-affordable price, excellent microphone clarity, and sweat/water resistance; however, they lack active noise cancellation (ANC), have poor passive isolation due to the open-fit design, and the thin wires are prone to tangling or physical wear.

Technical Specifications of Apple Earpods

Overall score

4.0

Show more

Hide

?

Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.

Sound

2.3

Show more

Hide

Active noise cancellation (ANC)

What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology

When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

Driver type

What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used

When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

dynamic

Driver size

What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit

When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of drivers

What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup

When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

Lowest frequency

What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce

When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

Show more

Calls & Controls

5.1

Show more

Hide

Noise-canceling microphone

What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls

When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

Can be used as a headset

What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.

When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of microphones

What it is: Total number of built-in microphones

When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

Boom microphone

What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity

When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

Microphone SNR

What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone

When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

?

Show more

Connectivity

6.2

Show more

Hide

Connectivity

What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)

When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

Bluetooth version

What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported

When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

N/A

Maximum Bluetooth range

What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device

When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

N/A

Audio latency

What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode

When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

N/A

Multipoint support

What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices

When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Show more

Features

4.1

Show more

Hide

Ambient sound mode

What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness

When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

EQ support

What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer

When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

Companion app

What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates

When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Adjustable ANC levels

What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels

When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A

Voice assistant support

What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant

When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

Show more

Battery

8.7

Show more

Hide

Battery life

What it is: Playback time on a single charge

When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

N/A

Battery life with ANC

What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled

When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

N/A

Charging time

What it is: Time required for a full battery charge

When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

N/A

Quick charge

What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period

When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Battery capacity

What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery

When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

N/A

Show more

Design

8.3

Show more

Hide

Brand name

What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.

When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Apple

Form factor

What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)

When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

earbud

Weight

What it is: Total weight of the headphones

When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

Acoustic design

What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)

When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

open-back

Clamp force

What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head

When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Show more

Apple Earpods vs the average headphone

Why is Apple Earpods better than the average headphone?

Show more

Hide

94.5% lower weight
Apple Earpods is lighter than the average headphone (12 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <150 g
Apple Earpods is lighter than the average headphone (12 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.12 g vs 218 g
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Apple Earpods includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones end in a built-in 3.5 mm male plug instead of relying on a separate detachable cable.
When it matters: When direct wired compatibility with older devices or adapters matters.
Importance: MEDIUM
Apple Earpods includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
In-line controls
Apple Earpods includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
What it is: Controls available on in-line remote of wired cable
When it matters: When your wired setup depends on cable-mounted buttons or call controls.
Importance: LOW
Apple Earpods includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
0.2 % lower distortion
Apple Earpods has a lower total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
What it is: Percentage of harmonic distortion in audio output
When it matters: When cleaner sound reproduction matters at louder volumes.
Importance: LOW
Good value: <=1%
Apple Earpods has a lower total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.0.1 % vs 0.3 %
Wind noise reduction
Apple Earpods reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
What it is: Reduces wind interference for clearer outdoor calls
When it matters: When you take calls outdoors while walking, cycling, or commuting.
Importance: LOW
Apple Earpods reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
USB-C charging
Apple Earpods uses USB-C charging, the average headphone does not. 29.4% of headphones use USB Type-C.
USB-C supports wired audio
What it is: Uses USB-C connector for charging or data
When it matters: When you want to charge with the same cable family used by your phone, tablet, laptop, or other daily devices.
Importance: LOW
Apple Earpods uses USB-C charging, the average headphone does not. 29.4% of headphones use USB Type-C.
4.5x cheaper
Apple Earpods is cheaper than the average headphone (£20 vs £90).
Apple Earpods is cheaper than the average headphone (£20 vs £90).£20 vs £90
2.2 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Apple Earpods has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (104.2 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
What it is: Sound pressure output level per unit of input power
When it matters: When you plan to use weaker sources like phones, handhelds, or entry-level dongles and still want enough volume.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=106 dB/mW
Apple Earpods has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (104.2 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.104.2 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
94.5% lower weight
Apple Earpods is lighter than the average headphone (12 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
0.2 % lower distortion
Apple Earpods has a lower total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
2.2 dB/mW higher sensitivity
Apple Earpods has a higher sensitivity than the average headphone (104.2 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
14 dB higher max SPL
Apple Earpods has a higher max SPL than the average headphone (124 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
USB-C charging
Apple Earpods uses USB-C charging, the average headphone does not. 29.4% of headphones use USB Type-C.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Apple Earpods includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
In-line controls
Apple Earpods includes in-line controls, the average headphone does not. 36.4% of headphones support in-line controls.
Wind noise reduction
Apple Earpods reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.

Calls & Controls

Why is Apple Earpods worse than the average headphone?

Show more

Hide

Fixed cable
Apple Earpods has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
Tangle-prone cable
Apple Earpods uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
No travel bag
Apple Earpods does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
No passive noise reduction
Apple Earpods does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
25.8 mm smaller driver size
Apple Earpods has smaller driver size than the average headphone (14.2 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
2 Hz weaker bass extension
Apple Earpods has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
No passive noise reduction
Apple Earpods does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones reduce outside noise through physical sealing, fit, and materials rather than active electronics.
When it matters: When you want better isolation from fit and seal alone, even with ANC turned off or not available.
Importance: MEDIUM
Apple Earpods does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
25.8 mm smaller driver size
Apple Earpods has smaller driver size than the average headphone (14.2 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.
Importance: MEDIUM
Apple Earpods has smaller driver size than the average headphone (14.2 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.14.2 mm vs 40 mm
Fixed cable
Apple Earpods has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
What it is: Cable can be removed or replaced
When it matters: When you care about easier cable replacement, simpler storage, or the option to swap to shorter, longer, or upgraded leads.
Importance: MEDIUM
Apple Earpods has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
2 Hz weaker bass extension
Apple Earpods has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <=10 Hz
Apple Earpods has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.20 Hz vs 18 Hz
4.65x less popular
Apple Earpods is less popular than the average headphone (1.00 vs 4.646).
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
Apple Earpods is less popular than the average headphone (1.00 vs 4.646).1 vs 4.65
15.5% worse value for money
Apple Earpods has worse value for money than the average headphone (5.83 vs 6.736).
What it is: An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.
When it matters: When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.
Apple Earpods has worse value for money than the average headphone (5.83 vs 6.736).5.83 vs 6.74
Tangle-prone cable
Apple Earpods uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
What it is: Cable designed to resist tangling
When it matters: When you often carry wired headphones in a bag or pocket.
Importance: LOW
Apple Earpods uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
No travel bag
Apple Earpods does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
What it is: Comes with a protective carrying case or pouch
When it matters: When protection in transit matters right out of the box.
Importance: LOW
Apple Earpods does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.

Graphic comparison of Apple Earpods and

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Apple Earpods?

Affordable price point, often cited as a high-value 'hidden gem' for around $19
Plug-and-play simplicity with no battery life concerns or charging required
Superior microphone quality compared to many wireless models, ideal for calls
Zero latency due to the wired connection, making them excellent for gaming and video editing
Universal compatibility with USB-C, Lightning, and 3.5mm versions available
Lightweight and comfortable for long sessions without the pressure of in-ear silicone tips

What customers dislike about Apple Earpods?

Open-ear design provides almost zero noise isolation from ambient surroundings
Lack of advanced features like Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) or Adaptive EQ
One-size-fits-all shape can lead to an unstable fit or ear pain for some users
Bass response is often described as thin or lacking compared to in-ear or over-ear alternatives
Wires are prone to tangling and can get snagged during physical activity
Audio can sound 'tinny' or lose clarity at volumes above 75%

Expert reviews

bestbudgetearbuds.com

28/12/2025

Apple EarPods Headphones with USB-C Plug Review 2026

The Apple EarPods with USB-C offer reliable, zero-lag audio performance tailored for everyday tasks like video calls, podcasts, and casual music listening across modern USB-C Apple devices. Shifting away from traditional circular shapes, their ear-geometry-driven design provides a lightweight, highly comfortable fit that reduces ear fatigue during extended wear. Key advantages...Read more

techradar.com

21/11/2024

Apple EarPods USB-C review: sleek, stylish, yet... - TechRadar

The Apple EarPods USB-C ($19 / £19 / AU$29) are wired earbuds launched in 2023 that revive the nostalgic aesthetic of the iPod era while adapting to modern devices with a compact USB-C connector. In terms of performance, the reviewer highlights that they deliver adequate sound that avoids the harsh, tinny treble typical of many budget competitors, and they even offer a respectable...Read more

techgearlab.com

28/09/2024

Apple EarPods - USB-C Review | Tested & Rated

The Apple EarPods (USB-C) offer a budget-friendly option at $19, delivering exceptional call quality (scoring 7.8) and reliable environmental awareness due to their open-ear design. They are highly durable, feature convenient tactile in-line volume controls, and work universally with any USB-C device without needing an adapter. Additionally, their microphone performs impressively...Read more

soundguys.com

15/12/2023

Apple EarPods (USB-C) review - SoundGuys

The SoundGuys review of the $19 USD Apple EarPods (USB-C) highlights their value as a plug-and-play, zero-latency audio solution suitable for modern devices, featuring a reliable inline remote and a solid, clear microphone. While boasting superior build quality to knockoffs, the earbuds are praised for their convenience in daily tasks like phone calls and video conferencing,...Read more

whathifi.com

20/10/2016

Apple EarPods with Lightning Connector review - What Hi-Fi?

The Apple EarPods with Lightning Connector serve as functional, passable bundled earbuds that offer a weighty, full-bodied sound with a clear, direct midrange. Tested at £29, they avoid any harshness or hard edges even at high volumes, which helps prevent them from exposing the flaws of lower-quality audio streams or smartphone recordings. However, their hard plastic design...Read more

techradar.com

15/09/2012

Apple EarPods review - TechRadar

The TechRadar review of the Apple EarPods with Remote and Mic highlights a complete redesign of Apple's iconic white bundled earphones, tailored to better fit the natural shape of the human ear canal. Designed with acoustic vents to improve airflow and boost low-frequency response, these earphones sit deeper in the ear than traditional buds without forming a full vacuum seal. While...Read more

head-fi.org

13/09/2012

Apple EarPods with Remote and Mic - Reviews - Head-Fi

According to user reviews on Head-Fi, the Apple EarPods are recognized as a balanced, budget-friendly option featuring a secure, lightweight fit and an effective, ergonomic inline remote. Sound performance is highlighted by a neutral midrange and surprising bass, though some users note rolled-off treble and thin vocals. Conversely, the reviews cite significant drawbacks including a...Read more

rtings.com

Not Dated

Apple EarPods Headphones Review - RTINGS.com

The Apple EarPods are lightweight, affordable, and comfortable wired earbuds designed for casual use, offering decent, well-balanced sound in the mid-to-high ranges with no latency. Key pros include their exceptional comfort for long listening sessions, portability, and reliable in-line controls, making them suitable for everyday listening and video consumption. RTINGS.com However,...Read more

head-fi.org

22/09/2012

Apple Earpods Review - Head-Fi Would you like to know the specific technical differences between the USB-C and Lightning versions of these EarPods?

The Head-Fi review notes that the Apple EarPods feature an improved plastic design and superior fit compared to previous models, with bass vents contributing to a wider soundstage and greater clarity. However, the review highlights significant drawbacks, including a thin, hollow midrange and muddy audio caused by bass bleeding into the mids. Head-Fi.org While offering better treble...Read more

xander51.medium.com

19/09/2016

Apple EarPods with Lightning Connector Review | by Alex Rowe on Medium

The Apple EarPods with Lightning Connector maintain an identical plastic shell design to their 3.5mm predecessors, featuring a higher-quality integrated DAC/amp that produces slightly louder volume. They offer a wide soundstage and clear, digital performance ideal for podcasts and vocal-heavy tracks. Medium · Conversely, the hard plastic design remains an acquired fit, and the sound...Read more

spiegel.de

21/10/2023

AirPods vs. EarPods Review: Which Apple Headphones Are Right for You

This DER SPIEGEL review compares Apple's audio lineup, noting that budget-friendly wired EarPods offer an unmatched price-to-performance ratio and balanced sound. While free from battery issues, EarPods suffer from tangling cables and a less secure, unsealed fit. Conversely, the premium AirPods models provide seamless iOS integration, wireless freedom, and superior audio features...Read more

chip.de

10/03/2026

The Best of Apple in Your Ears: AirPods Compared

The reviewed CHIP article evaluates Apple's AirPods lineup, highlighting the AirPods Pro 3 as the top overall choice with a "Very Good" (1.4) rating. These flagship earbuds stand out for their exceptional audio output featuring a punchier bass and clearer highs, combined with a massively improved active noise cancellation (ANC) system and a crystal-clear transparency mode. They...Read more

haus.de

07/04/2021

Apple EarPods review: the popular in-ear headphones put to the test", "Apple EarPods: testing the popular in-ear headphones

Apple EarPods Review Summary The Apple EarPods with a Lightning connector offer brilliant, harmonious sound quality with clear tones and great spatial depth. The headphones stand out for daily casual use and phone calls, as the microphone suppresses background noise perfectly to deliver crisp voice transmission. They feature a simple three-button remote control on the cable that...Read more

kopfhoerer.de

29/09/2017

Apple EarPods review by kopfhoerer.de

The Apple EarPods review from kopfhoerer.de gives these classic headphones an overall score of 3.38 out of 5 stars. A major pro is the build quality and design, which features a smooth feel, zero cable noise against clothes, and a helpful iOS-compatible remote control. When the oval buds fit properly, they offer a clear, bright sound with good middle tones and distinct bass notes....Read more

journaldulapin.com

22/09/2023

USB-C EarPods Review - Le journal du lapin

Apple’s USB-C EarPods deliver a highly reliable, plug-and-play budget solution that excels as a durable backup to wireless headphones. Released alongside the iPhone 15, this fourth iteration of Apple's classic earbuds features an integrated Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) built directly into the type-C connector. It handles digital transmission via the standard USB Audio protocol,...Read more

lefigaro.fr

22/04/2020

Our iPhone SE review (Lightning EarPods included section)

The 2020 iPhone SE bridges retro design with modern internals, functioning as a high-performance budget option under 500 euros. Visually indistinguishable from the iPhone 8, it retains a 4.7-inch LCD True Tone display, a tactile home button, a waterproof chassis, and a single-lens rear camera setup. However, its major advantage lies inside: it is powered by the flagship A13 Bionic...Read more

mac4ever.com

15/09/2023

USB-C EarPods Review: Practical, Eco-Friendly, and Highly Versatile Earphones!

The Mac4Ever review highlights the Apple EarPods USB-C as a highly practical, budget-friendly, and eco-friendly accessory priced at just 19€. The reviewer notes significant pros, including its extreme versatility across the latest Apple ecosystem (Mac, iPad, and iPhone 15 series) without requiring adapters. It delivers zero-latency audio essential for gaming and video editing,...Read more

global.techradar.com

11/10/2023

We tried Apple's USB-C headphones with the iPhone 15", "We tested Apple's USB-C EarPods with the iPhone 15

The TechRadar review highlights a major disappointment regarding the audio performance of Apple's €19 USB-C EarPods when paired with the iPhone 15. While the earbuds natively support lossless audio on Apple Music—a feature premium Bluetooth AirPods cannot currently achieve with an iPhone—the physical drivers fail to deliver on this high-resolution potential. The testing reveals a...Read more

applesfera.com

28/07/2025

Why I bought wired EarPods in the middle of 2025 even though I own AirPods Pro 2", "Why I bought wired EarPods in 2025, even owning AirPods Pro 2

The author bought Apple EarPods with a cable because his wireless AirPods Pro 2 ran out of battery right before an important call. Even though he loves his wireless earbuds, their battery life has gotten worse over time. He paid about 19 euros for the EarPods to use for everyday tasks like work calls, voice notes, and listening to podcasts from home. The wired EarPods act as a...Read more

applesfera.com

11/05/2025

What if Apple's best headphones aren't AirPods? I've tested over 50 and I'm still sticking with this 20-euro classic

The reviewer, who owns over 50 pairs of headphones, strongly advocates for Apple's budget-friendly, wired EarPods over premium wireless models like the AirPods Max. Since their inception in 2012, through transitions from the 3.5mm jack to Lightning and now USB-C, these €19 earbuds have remained the author's daily choice. The review destaca key benefits including their featherlight...Read more

iphoneitalia.com

24/09/2012

Apple EarPods - The iPhoneItalia Review

This 2012 review from iPhoneItalia evaluates Apple’s then-new wired EarPods, which debuted alongside the iPhone 5 and updated iPod models. Designed after three years of research analyzing human ear anatomy, these earbuds were engineered to comfortably fit a broader range of users without needing to be deeply inserted into the ear canal. The reviewer notes that the overall audio...Read more

letemsvetemapplem.eu

24/09/2012

Apple EarPods review: when it comes to phone headphones...

The Apple EarPods deliver remarkably pure, neutral sound reproduction that punches far above their weight class for acoustically simple arrangements, outclassing previous generations by a massive margin. During slower tracks or recordings focused on a limited number of instruments, they capture intricate details and deliver faithful tonal quality rivaling headphones that cost...Read more

macitynet.it

21/09/2012

Apple changes its tune with the new EarPods headphones

Overview of Apple EarPods The Apple EarPods introduce a complete, innovative redesign compared to Apple’s previous standard earbuds, offering a distinct shape tailored to the anatomy of the ear, alongside improved materials and next-generation acoustics. According to Macitynet’s testing, the EarPods provide an impressive boost in audio power and a significant upgrade in bass...Read more

iculture.nl

20/12/2016

AirPods review: our experience with Apple's earbuds", "AirPods review: what it's like using Apple's earbuds

The first-generation Apple AirPods are fully wireless earbuds designed for high convenience and deep integration with the Apple ecosystem. Priced at €179, they stand out for their incredibly fast pairing process, steady connection, and smart sensors that automatically pause music when an earbud is removed. While the initial design faced some public skepticism, the earbuds quickly...Read more

bright.nl

20/10/2012

First impression: the iPods of 2012", "Review: Apple EarPods earbuds", "Review: Apple EarPods", "Apple EarPods review: are they any good?

The 2012 iPod touch is highlighted as a major upgrade that finally eliminates the traditional gap in screen quality between the iPod line and the iPhone. Equipped with the exact same vibrant 4-inch 16:9 display as the iPhone 5, it provides an exceptional visual experience for watching movies and playing games. Its lightweight and razor-thin 6.1 mm aluminum chassis feels...Read more

Video reviews

Best alternatives

Sony WH 1000XM4

Headphones

JBL Tour One M3

Headphones

Sony WH 1000XM6

Headphones

Headphones

Headphones

Sony WH ULT900N

Headphones

Nothing Headphone 1

Headphones

Sony WH 1000XM5

Headphones

Headphones

Huawei Freebuds Studio

Headphones

Sennheiser Momentum

Headphones

JBL Tour One M2

Headphones

Compare Apple Earpods with

Compare