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Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 Review | 93 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£220
  • Avg. price in US: ~$230
  • Form factor: over-ear
  • Connectivity: wireless
  • Battery life: 30 hours
  • Active noise cancellation (ANC): yes

Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

7.3

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the headphones' quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best headphones on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

7.3

Technical Score

20.0%

?

User score

Very good
7.3

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

7.9

Sound

20.0%

6.7

Features

10.0%

6.0

Design

8.0%

7.0

Connectivity

6.0%

6.5

Battery

4.0%

7.8

Calls & Controls

Very good
?

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.

Score components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 9.0
    Gaming

    Score components:

    35.0%

    9.0

    Audio latency

    25.0%

    9.0

    Low-latency game mode

    20.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

    12.0%

    10

    Noise-canceling microphone

    8.0%

    4.8

    Battery life

  • 7.4
    Travel

    Score components:

    28.0%

    10

    Active noise cancellation (ANC)

    24.0%

    4.8

    Battery life

    18.0%

    2.5

    Weight

    16.0%

    10

    Multipoint support

    14.0%

    10

    Ambient sound mode

  • 9.2
    Calls

    Score components:

    28.0%

    10

    Noise-canceling microphone

    24.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

    18.0%

    10

    Multipoint support

    16.0%

    4.8

    Battery life

    14.0%

    10

    Companion app

  • 6.4
    Workout

    Score components:

    28.0%

    2.5

    Weight

    24.0%

    10

    Water resistance

    20.0%

    6.7

    IP rating

    16.0%

    4.8

    Battery life

    12.0%

    10

    Can be used as a headset

  • No image
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Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £220

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Fairphone Fairbuds XL (2025) are over-ear, modular headphones designed for long-term sustainability, featuring a 40mm dynamic driver setup and an IP54 dust and splash resistance rating. Key characteristics include a unique control joystick for playback, Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX HD support, and a replaceable 750-800mAh battery that provides up to 30 hours of playback (26 hours with ANC active). Main pros include its eco-friendly construction—using 100% recycled aluminum and fair-mined metals—and a highly repairable design with nine user-replaceable parts, such as the ear cushions and headband, which now use breathable mesh fabric for improved comfort. However, notable cons include a high upfront price compared to rivals, lack of advanced features like wear sensors for auto-pause, and active noise cancellation that is often described as only decent rather than class-leading.

Technical Specifications of Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

?

Sound

20.0%

?

Features

10.0%

?

Design

8.0%

?

Connectivity

6.0%

?

Battery

4.0%

?

Calls & Controls

7.3
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a technical score of 7.29 points, which is higher than that of 86.7% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.

Score components:

70.0%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
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.
1.0
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a popularity of 1 points, which is lower than 72.7% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

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.

Score components:

60.0%

7.3

Overall score

40.0%

9.4

Price

7.9
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.9 points, which is higher than 83.2% of products in this category.
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

yes
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 supports active noise cancellation. 72.6% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
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

40 mm
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 uses a driver size of 40 mm, larger driver size than 28.2% of headphones and equal to 53.6% of headphones.
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

1
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 uses 1 drivers, equal to 96% of headphones.
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

20 Hz
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 reaches a lowest frequency of 20 Hz, higher lowest frequency than 50.6% of headphones and equal to 47.5% of headphones.
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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

yes
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 supports a noise-canceling microphone. 54.5% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
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

yes
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 is headset-ready, 84.7% is not. 15.3% of headphones can be used as headsets.
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

6
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has 6 microphones, more microphones than 96.1% of headphones and equal to 2.4% of headphones.
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

no
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 does not include a boom microphone. 15.6% of headphones have a boom microphone.
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

?
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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

wireless
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 supports wireless connectivity, more flexible connectivity than 52.6% of headphones and equal to 47.4% of headphones.
supports both wireless and wired connectivity.
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

5.1
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 uses Bluetooth version 5.1, newer Bluetooth version than 83.9% of headphones and equal to 1.6% of headphones.
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

10 m
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 offers a Bluetooth range of 10 m, higher Bluetooth range than 2.6% of headphones and equal to 79.9% of headphones.
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

?
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

yes
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 supports multipoint. 35% of headphones support multipoint.
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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

yes
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 supports ambient sound mode. 23.2% of headphones support ambient sound mode.
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

yes
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 supports EQ customization. 76.8% of headphones support EQ.
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

yes
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 works with a companion app. 55.7% of headphones support companion apps.
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

yes
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 supports voice assistants. 39.2% of headphones support voice assistants.
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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

30 hours
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 offers battery life of 30 hours, higher battery life than 46% of headphones and equal to 10.5% of headphones.
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

26 hours
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 offers battery life with ANC of 26 hours, lower battery life with ANC than 60.4% of headphones and equal to 0.8% of headphones.
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

2.5 hours
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 needs 2.5 hours to charge, higher charging time than 52.4% of headphones and equal to 12.9% of headphones.
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

?
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

800 mAh
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a battery capacity of 800 mAh, higher battery capacity than 74.7% of headphones and equal to 7.7% of headphones.
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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

Fairphone
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

over-ear
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

330 g
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 weighs 330 g, heavier than 87.6% of headphones and equal to 1% of headphones.
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

closed-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

4.4
Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a clamp force of 4.4, higher clamp force than 50.7% of headphones and equal to 4.2% of headphones.
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Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 vs the average headphone

  • Active noise cancellation
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
    What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology
    When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

    Importance: HIGH

    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
  • EQ customization
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
    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

    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
  • More flexible connectivity
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
    supports both wireless and wired 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

    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.wireless vs wired
  • 0.24 % lower distortion
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 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%

    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 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 %.0.06 % vs 0.3 %
  • Clear call microphone
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
    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

    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
  • On-device controls
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
    What it is: Physical controls available directly on headphones
    When it matters: When you need playback, volume, or call controls to be easy to reach without pulling out your phone.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
  • 5 more microphones
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has more microphones than the average headphone (6 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 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

    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has more microphones than the average headphone (6 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.6 vs 1
  • Foldable design
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
    What it is: Earcups or headband can fold for compact storage
    When it matters: When you travel often and want easier storage in a bag.

    Importance: LOW

    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
  • Foldable design
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
  • Water resistance
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 is water resistant, the average headphone is not. 20.2% of headphones are water resistant.
  • Better IP rating
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a better IP rating than the average headphone (IP54 vs none). The average headphones have an IP rating of none.
  • Active noise cancellation
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
  • 0.24 % lower distortion
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 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 %.
  • USB-C charging
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 uses USB-C charging, the average headphone does not. 29.4% of headphones use USB Type-C.
  • 33.3% higher battery capacity
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a higher battery capacity than the average headphone (800 mAh vs 600 mAh). The average headphones have a battery capacity of 600 mAh.
  • Removable battery
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a removable battery, the average headphone does not. 7.6% of headphones have a removable battery.
  • Rechargeable battery
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
  • Play while charging
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 can play while charging, the average headphone cannot. 55.9% of headphones support play while charging.
  • More flexible connectivity
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
  • Clear call microphone
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
  • On-device controls
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
  • 5 more microphones
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has more microphones than the average headphone (6 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
  • Sidetone support
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 supports sidetone, the average headphone does not. 29.7% of headphones support sidetone.
  • EQ customization
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
  • 8 years newer release date
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 was released more recently than the average headphone (2,025 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.

Total
Overall
Design
Sound
Battery
Connectivity
Calls & Controls
Features
  • 51.4% higher weight
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 is heavier than the average headphone (330 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
  • 2 Hz weaker bass extension
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a higher lowest frequency than the average headphone (20 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
  • 3 dB/mW lower sensitivity
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (99 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
  • 11 dB lower max SPL
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (99 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
  • 0.5 hours longer charging time
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a higher charging time than the average headphone (2.5 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
  • 4 hours shorter ANC battery life
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a lower battery life with ANC than the average headphone (26 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.
  • 51.4% higher weight
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 is heavier than the average headphone (330 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

    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 is heavier than the average headphone (330 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.330 g vs 218 g
  • 0.5 hours longer charging time
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a higher charging time than the average headphone (2.5 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.
    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

    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a higher charging time than the average headphone (2.5 hours vs 2 hours). The average headphones need 2 hours to charge.2.5 hours vs 2 hours
  • 2 Hz weaker bass extension
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 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

    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 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
  • 3 dB/mW lower sensitivity
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (99 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

    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (99 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.99 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
  • 4.65x less popular
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 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.
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 is less popular than the average headphone (1.00 vs 4.646).1 vs 4.65
  • 2.44x more expensive
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 is more expensive than the average headphone (£220 vs £90).
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 is more expensive than the average headphone (£220 vs £90).£220 vs £90
  • 11 dB lower max SPL
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (99 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
    What it is: Maximum safe sound pressure level
    When it matters: When high-volume headroom is part of your use case.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=116 dB

    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (99 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.99 dB vs 110 dB
  • 4 hours shorter ANC battery life
    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a lower battery life with ANC than the average headphone (26 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.
    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

    Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 has a lower battery life with ANC than the average headphone (26 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.26 hours vs 30 hours
Total
Overall
Design
Sound
Battery

Graphic comparison of Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025 and

Attribute category
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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025?

  • Industry-leading modular design allows users to easily replace almost any part, including the battery, drivers, and headband using a simple screwdriver.
  • Enhanced sustainability with 100% fair-mined cobalt, copper, and silver, plus 100% recycled rare-earth materials.
  • Improved comfort due to new breathable mesh fabric padding on ear cushions and headband, which reduces heat and sweat buildup.
  • Highly praised joystick control on the right ear cup for intuitive music and volume management.
  • Backwards compatibility allows owners of the 2023 model to upgrade to the new 2025 drivers without buying a full new headset.
  • Support for aptX HD provides high-resolution 24-bit wireless streaming.

What customers dislike about Fairphone Fairbuds Xl 2025?

  • Relatively high upfront price compared to competitors that offer more advanced features like the Sony WH-1000XM6 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra.
  • Lack of 'smart' features such as wear sensors for auto-play/pause and fast-charging technology.
  • Average Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) that struggles with high-pitched sounds or wind noise compared to class-leading rivals.
  • Soundstage can feel restrictive or narrow, sometimes leading to 'muddy' vocals in complex musical tracks.
  • The accompanying app is considered basic, offering limited EQ customisation and lacking a device management list for multipoint connections.
  • Ear cups do not swivel to lie flat, making them bulkier for storage in some bags.

Expert reviews

G
galaxus.at
09/12/2025
Fairbuds XL: Second generation with new fabric and new driver

The second-generation Fairbuds XLGo feature a significant design update, replacing synthetic leather with a breathable, sports-style fabric on the ear pads and headband for improved comfort and reduced heat. While the IP54-rated, modular construction remains a major sustainability pro, the internal hardware upgrades—including stronger N52 magnets and a revised diaphragm—result in...Read more

O
ounapuu.ee
17/03/2025
Fairphone Fairbuds XLGo to product viewer dialogue for this item. review: admirable goals, awful product Would you like a comparison of the sound qual...

The Fairphone Fairbuds XL are described as a well-intentioned but ultimately disappointing product that fails to compete with mainstream alternatives like the Sony WH-1000XM3. The reviewer highlights several significant cons, including a bland sound profile that lacks clarity and "broken" active noise-canceling (ANC) that produces wind noise and fails to block ambient sounds...Read more

E
engadget.com
09/12/2025
Fairphone updates its over-ear headphones with better sound

Audio Performance and Design Upgrades The 2025 Fairbuds XL headphones upgrade their sound quality by replacing older components with premium 40mm dynamic drivers, stronger N52 magnets, a paper-based speaker membrane, and improved audio tuning. These changes provide cleaner bass and sharper mid and high frequencies, closing the quality gap with top-tier manufacturers. Materially, the...Read more

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techradar.com
09/12/2025
Fairphone Fairbuds XL (2025) review: eco-friendly headphones that'll last you for years

The Fairphone Fairbuds XL (2025) are over-ear wireless headphones that focus heavily on environmental sustainability, utilizing fair-mined metals, recycled rare-earth materials, and 100% renewable energy for assembly. Designed for longevity, their modular construction allows users to easily replace individual parts, and they come backed by an extended three-year warranty. A standout...Read more

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heise.de
09/12/2025
Fairphone Fairbuds XL: Repairable Over-Ear Headphones Review

The Fairphone Fairbuds XL review from Heise highlights the headphones' revolutionary modular design, positioning them as a premier choice for eco-conscious consumers looking for longevity. The main pro of these over-ear headphones is their outstanding repairability. Composed of individual components held together by standard Phillips screws rather than glue, users can effortlessly...Read more

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connect.de
23/12/2025
Fairbuds XL 2025 Review: Sustainability Comes at a Cost", "Fairbuds XL 2025 Tested: Sustainability Has a Price

The 2025 Fairphone Fairbuds XL are €249 over-ear headphones that excel in sustainability, featuring an highly innovative modular design where nearly all components can be individually purchased and replaced by the user (e.g., a replacement battery for €20). Additionally, Fairphone allows backward-compatible hardware upgrades, enabling owners of the 2023 model to install the new 40mm...Read more

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deejay-basics.de
26/12/2025
Sustainability Has Its Price: Fairbuds XL 2025 Review

The Fairbuds XL 2025 over-ear headphones place a strong emphasis on sustainability, offering a modular design that can be completely disassembled for easy repair and battery replacement. Released in December 2025 for 249 Euro, this generation upgrades the previous 2023 version with backward-compatible 40mm drivers and a visually refreshed, IP54-rated fabric-weave design. Additional...Read more

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phonandroid.com
03/02/2026
Our Full Review of the Fairphone Fairbuds XL (2025)", "Our Comprehensive Review of the Fairphone Fairbuds XL (2025)

The Fairphone Fairbuds XL (2025) is a highly repairable, modular wireless over-ear headphone priced at 249 euros, offering substantial upgrades over its predecessor. Designed with sustainability in mind, all individual components—such as the 800 mAh removable battery (20€), ear cushions (15€), and drivers—can be easily replaced without tools. The updated design swaps out old faux...Read more

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digitec.ch
09/12/2025
Fabric instead of faux leather: the new Fairbuds XL are much more comfortable

The second-generation Fairphone Fairbuds XL, reviewed on Digitec, significantly improves comfort by replacing artificial leather with a breathable, sportswear-like mesh fabric on the ear pads and headband. While the design, enhanced by IP54-rated durability, is a major pro, the internal upgrades—including stronger N52 magnets for better sound—offer a less noticeable real-world...Read more

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clubic.com
09/12/2025
I'm testing the Fairbuds XL (2nd gen): the first truly sustainable headphones are back

The Fairphone Fairbuds XL (2nd Gen) is an eco-friendly, highly modular over-ear headset designed to fight tech obsolescence by offering an impressive repairability system of up to nine replaceable parts, including the battery, headband, cushions, and even the 40mm dynamic drivers. Scoring an 8/10, this second-generation model delivers a major generational leap in audio performance...Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
09/12/2025
Fairphone launches Fairbuds XL 2025: an even more repairable and ethical headset

The Fairphone Fairbuds XL (2025) is a modular, eco-friendly wireless headset priced at €249 that features 9 user-replaceable parts including the battery, headband, and drivers. Designed with 50% fair and recycled materials, this iteration introduces breathable mesh fabric on the earcups and headband to improve long-term wearing comfort and minimize heat buildup. Pros: The headset...Read more

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01net.com
09/12/2025
Fairphone Fairbuds XL 2 review: our opinion on the headphones

The Fairphone Fairbuds XL 2 offers a highly sustainable and fully repairable design featuring a modular build with nine user-replaceable parts, including the battery and speakers. Released in December 2025 for €249, this generation introduces a retro-industrial aesthetic made with 50% recycled materials and replaces its older faux-leather material with a more breathable mesh fabric....Read more

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presse-citron.net
09/12/2025
Fairbuds XL Review (2025): The Repairable and Upgradable Headphones

The Fairbuds XL (2025) is an eco-friendly, modular wireless headset priced at €249 that stands out for its exceptional repairability and upgradeability. On the positive side, it features a highly sustainable design made with over 80% recycled plastics, 92% recycled aluminum, and 100% recycled rare earth elements. The headset offers a comfortable fit with breathable mesh ear...Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
08/01/2026
Fairphone Fairbuds XL (2025) Review: A sustainable Bluetooth headset making progress

The Fairphone Fairbuds XL (2025) is a mid-range, modular Bluetooth headphone praised primarily for its exceptional sustainability and fully repairable design. Retailing at €249, the headphones feature a durable, IP54-certified build made extensively from recycled materials. On the positive side, reviewers highlight its very intuitive controls, comfortable fit despite a heavy weight...Read more

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rush.nl
17/12/2025
New Fairbuds XL: Sustainable design with solid audio

The Fairphone Fairbuds XL (2025) is a sustainable, over-ear wireless headphone priced at €249 that stands out for its exceptional modular design and right-to-repair ethos. The primary pros center on its sustainability; almost every component—including the battery, headband, and ear cushions—is easily user-replaceable using a standard screwdriver, and it even offers backward...Read more

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gadgetgear.nl
14/12/2025
Review: Fairphone Fairbuds XL (2025) - Modular and socially responsible

The Fairphone Fairbuds XL (2025), rated 4/5 by GadgetGear, excel in sustainability, featuring a highly modular, repairable design alongside comfortable wear and good sound quality. These headphones prioritize ethical manufacturing, offering a unique, socially responsible alternative to standard, disposable consumer electronics. However, the review highlights drawbacks, including...Read more

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nl.mashable.com
06/01/2026
Fairbuds XL Review (2025): The Promise of a Modular, Sustainable Headphone is Fulfilled

The Fairbuds XL (2025) headphones offer great comfort updates and a sustainable, modular design that allows users to replace almost any part easily. Fairphone fixed earlier comfort issues by switching to a breathable mesh fabric that prevents sweaty ears. The sound quality is improved with new 40 mm drivers that use a paper membrane, making the audio feel calmer and more natural....Read more

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id.nl
21/12/2025
Fairphone Fairbuds XL Review (2025) – You can repair these headphones yourself

The ID.nl review concludes that the Fairphone Fairbuds XL (2025) is a highly sustainable, eco-friendly option priced at €249, prioritizing exceptional, user-friendly modularity over top-tier performance. While competing headphones in this price tier outperform it technically, the Fairbuds XL stands out for consumers prioritizing product longevity and repairability. A major advantage...Read more

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androidplanet.nl
09/12/2025
Fairphone Fairbuds XL (2025) review: reason to upgrade

The Android Planet review awards the second-generation Fairphone Fairbuds XL (2025) an 8/10 score, praising its exceptional sustainability and modular architecture. Retaining the distinct design of its predecessor, this version enhances long-term comfort by swapping out fake leather for lightweight, breathable woven fabric ear cushions and a matching headband. The headphone stands...Read more

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androidworld.nl
09/12/2025
Fairbuds XL (2025) review: expensive sustainable headphones

The Fairbuds XL (2025) is a highly sustainable, over-ear headphone from the Dutch company Fairphone, costing 249 euros. Its biggest selling point is its LONGTIME-certified modular design, allowing consumers to easily swap out nine different parts—including the battery, drivers, and ear cushions—with a simple setup. It features well-balanced, clear audio with no major weaknesses,...Read more

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