Testing Methodology
- Duration: 2 weeks per model
- Music Genres: Rock, EDM, Classical, Podcasts
- ANC Test: Airplane, subway, coffee shop
- Battery Test: Real-world usage
The Rankings
🥇 1. Sony WF-1000XM6 ($199)
Sound: 9.5/10 | ANC: 10/10 | Battery: 8 hours
Why #1: Best ANC in class. Incredible sound. LDAC support.
Best For: Audiophiles, frequent travelers
🥈 2. Nothing Ear (3) ($149)
Sound: 8.5/10 | ANC: 8/10 | Battery: 7 hours
Why #2: Best value. Transparent design. Great app.
Best For: Style + substance seekers
🥉 3. Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro ($179)
Sound: 9/10 | ANC: 9/10 | Battery: 6 hours
Why #3: Best for Samsung users. 360 Audio.
Best For: Galaxy phone owners
4. Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 ($129)
Sound: 8/10 | ANC: 7/10 | Battery: 9 hours
Best For: Budget buyers, long battery life
5. Jabra Elite 10 ($199)
Sound: 8.5/10 | ANC: 8.5/10 | Battery: 6 hours
Best For: Call quality (6-mic system)
6. OnePlus Buds Pro 3 ($149)
Sound: 8/10 | ANC: 7.5/10 | Battery: 7 hours
Best For: OnePlus users, good all-rounder
7. Beats Fit Pro ($179)
Sound: 7.5/10 | ANC: 7/10 | Battery: 6 hours
Best For: Gym/workouts (secure fit)
Comparison Table
| Model | Price | Sound | ANC | Battery |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony XM6 | $199 | 9.5 | 10 | 8h |
| Nothing Ear 3 | $149 | 8.5 | 8 | 7h |
| Galaxy Buds 3 Pro | $179 | 9 | 9 | 6h |
| Soundcore Liberty 4 | $129 | 8 | 7 | 9h |
| Jabra Elite 10 | $199 | 8.5 | 8.5 | 6h |
Buying Guide
For Audiophiles
Get Sony WF-1000XM6. LDAC codec, exceptional tuning.
For Budget Buyers
Anker Soundcore Liberty 4. 90% of the performance at 65% of the price.
For iPhone Users
Honestly? Get AirPods Pro 2 ($249). H2 chip integration is worth the extra $50.
For Android Users
Nothing Ear (3) or Galaxy Buds 3 Pro depending on your phone brand.
Final Verdict
🏆 Overall Winner: Sony WF-1000XM6
Best sound, best ANC, worth every penny of $199.
💰 Best Value: Nothing Ear (3)
$149 for 85% of Sony's performance. Unbeatable value.