What are the best true wireless (TWS) headphones you can buy in India right now? Options vary depending on your budget, and we’ve picked out the best TWS headphones across price ranges, key features, and specific requirements.
While the last year has seen some impressive innovation and growth in the true wireless earbuds segment, things have slowed down a bit over the past few months when it comes to big-ticket launches from big brands. That said, there have been some significant new product launches in recent months from Indian and global brands.
Active noise cancellation continues to be the main feature buyers look for when choosing true wireless headphones across price segments, but new innovation comes in the form of advanced codec support and features built for certain devices and platforms could be big trends in 2022. We’ve refreshed our top picks across price categories for true wireless earbuds, with products new from Sony, Samsung, and OnePlus, and here are our top picks.
How do true wireless headphones work?
Until the advent of true wireless technology, wireless headphones and earphones had some kind of connector between the left and right channels, be it a cord or a headband. With true wireless headphones, even this short cable is gone, and each has its own battery, DAC, amplifier, and Bluetooth chip. The earbuds connect individually to the source device, or the primary earbuds are connected to the source then also connect to a second earbuds to provide a digital signal.
This way, each earphone can work independently, but the two function together to ensure that the listener receives the stereo sound coming from the source device. The obvious advantage of this arrangement is the convenience of a completely cordless listening experience, which improves comfort and ease of use. This is a boon in many use cases, including while exercising, in crowded places, on the way to work, or when you want to use your headphones while lying down.
True wireless headphones often also include a built-in microphone, so you can use them as hands-free with your smartphone. As long as the microphone is good enough to pick up sound over slightly longer distances, this makes true wireless headphones the most discreet and effective way to carry out conversations on the go. And while additional components can make headphones a little heavier than regular headphones, many of the new options are compact, lightweight, comfortable, and don’t rely on tips. wing or ear hook to stay in place in your ear.
Best True Wireless Headphones: Apple AirPods Pro
Even though it’s over two years old now, our favorite true wireless earbuds are still Apple AirPods Pro. Although it is still a bit expensive at around Rs. 20,000 in India, AirPods Pro remains very current and capable in the face of growing competition, and the addition of MagSafe compatible wireless charging with new purchases keeps things relevant, especially especially if you use iPhone and other Apple accessories.
AirPods Pro are a big improvement over previous AirPods and competing headphones, thanks to one big feature – active noise cancellation. This makes headphones a lot more useful than most other true wireless options and improves your hearing. even in the noisiest environments. There’s also transparency mode, which lets in outside and ambient sound in the most natural-sounding way we’ve heard on any headset to date. We found the sound to be engaging, immersive, and clear.
Much of the improvement in these headphones can be attributed to their in-ear fit, which provides better noise isolation and provides a more immersive listening experience. The AirPods Pro are also incredibly versatile and can adjust to different songs on the fly for a comfortable yet enjoyable sound. As expected, AirPods are used with Apple devices and work best if you have an iPhone or iPad. That’s not to say they won’t work on Android smartphones or computers, but certain features will only work with Apple’s iOS devices. But no matter what device you use it with, the AirPods Pro are an easy and compelling pair of truly wireless earbuds.
Buying: AirPods Pro
The best true wireless headphones for Android: Sony WF-1000XM4
The Sony WF-1000XM4 are truly top-of-the-line wireless headphones in every sense, and there’s one key factor that sets it apart from other similar products – support for the Bluetooth LDAC codec. This makes it especially suitable for use with Android smartphones, and the sound quality on offer is truly one of the best you can get with this model. Good ANC, a functional app and other useful features make this true wireless headset capable.
While the fit feels a bit wobbly due to the size of the headset and limited control customization options, the Sony WF-1000XM4 is one of our top picks for its LDAC support, working stable and without any connection problems. The sound is detailed and enjoyable, making these perhaps the best pair of true wireless earbuds you can buy right now – if you have an Android smartphone.
The best true wireless headphones under Rs. 15,000: Samsung Galaxy Buds 2
While many may suggest that Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro is a true wireless headset with better sound Galaxy Buds 2 (and we agree), the latter is the better choice in our opinion for one main reason – a much more comfortable fit. Valuation Rs. 11,999 in India, the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 is practically as good as the Pro model and also supports the Scalable Bluetooth codec, providing better sound quality when used with Samsung devices.
Therefore, if you are using a Samsung smartphone or tablet, the Galaxy Buds 2 should be your top choice because of its all-round performance. While the water resistance isn’t adequate and the lack of app support on iOS somewhat holds it back, it’s still a really good pair of wireless earbuds. Regardless of your source device, you’ll get good sound, good ANC and a great fit within the Rs budget. 15,000. This makes the Galaxy Buds 2 worth picking up.
Buying: Samsung Galaxy Buds 2
Best under Rs. 10,000: OnePlus Buds Pro
OnePlus’ most expensive audio product to date, OnePlus Buds Pro are an impressive pair of truly wireless earphones at Rs. 9,990. With active noise cancellation and a good app, the Buds Pro are a great pair of headphones for the price. It also supports Dolby Atmos and low-latency gaming, but only when used with a OnePlus smartphone.
The pressure-sensitive controls work well, fit comfortably, and sound fun and energetic, making this a great pair of headphones to buy even if you don’t own a OnePlus smartphone. Small blemishes aside like the plain-looking charging case and awkward smart mode for ANC, these are quite easily our favorite true wireless earbuds for under Rs. 10,000.
Buying: OnePlus Buds Pro
Best affordable true wireless earbuds: Realme Buds Q2
Among the most affordable true wireless headphones with active noise cancellation, Rs. 2.499 Realme Buds Q2 is one of the best value for money options you can buy right now. While ANC performance is basic, it’s functional and makes a sensible difference making listening a little easier in all kinds of environments. There’s also app support via the Realme Link app, making this a feature-packed pair of headphones for the price.
Sound quality and battery life, while not exceptional, are good enough and the headphones look nice thanks to the reflective touch sensitive area on the outside of the earphones. While we found the low latency mode to be a bit impressive and the soundstage a bit self-contained, these are still easily the best pair of true wireless headphones you can buy for under Rs. 3,000 when it comes to features and capabilities.
Buying: Realme Buds Q2
How we choose the best true wireless earbuds
We’ve reviewed or used a wide variety of truly wireless headphones, including popular options from major electronics manufacturers, as well as options from traditional audio brands that have been in the business. headphones and earphones for many years. We’ve also taken into account specs, codec support, and pricing to come up with our top recommendations.
True wireless headphones form a relatively new product segment, and we’ve had the chance to test out most of the new options. In addition to the headphones, we also pay attention to the charging cases that come with these options. These cases often provide extra battery backup and are also a convenient and safe way to carry your headphones when not in use. With all these points in mind, we’ve selected our list of top recommendations, as well as other options to watch out for as listed below.
Also consider these true wireless earbuds
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2: If you have an Android smartphone to take advantage of the aptX Bluetooth codec, here are the best-sounding true wireless earbuds you can buy right now. However, it is expensive at 24,990.
Jabra Elite 85t: Jabra’s Latest True Wireless Earphones Priced Rs. 17,999 wonand is the most advanced device with great sound, good ANC and all-round performance. It is only slightly expensive compared to Oppo Enco X.
OnePlus Buds Z2: Valuation at Rs. 4,999 won In India, the alternative to the OnePlus Buds Z features active noise cancellation and delivers fun, punchy audio, making it a worthwhile option under Rs. Especially 5,000 if you have a OnePlus smartphone.
Nothing Tai 1: Probably the best-looking pair of true wireless earbuds you can buy right now, the Nothing Ears 1 is also pretty decent when it comes to sound quality, ANC, app support, and cost. Rs. 6,999 won.
Google Pixel Buds A-Series: Same as AirPods but for Android smartphones, Rs. 8,999 won The Google Pixel Buds A-Series works exceptionally well with the Google Assistant and produces detailed and clear sound. However, there is no ANC.
Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro: Samsung’s flagship true wireless earbuds are a great choice with advanced codec support and very good sound quality for all around Rs. 10,000 won – if you can get used to the ingenious design and fit.
