If there’s one thing I’ve done extensively in 2025, it’s testing open earbuds for TechRadar. These devices, also known as open-ear or open-fit headphones, have surged in popularity recently. Unlike noise-canceling headphones, open earbuds allow ambient sound to seep in, making them ideal for runners and cyclists who need to stay aware of their surroundings. Despite their growing popularity among brands, spotting a pair in public remains rare.
For those unfamiliar, open earbuds rest over the ear rather than inside, allowing users to hear both music and environmental sounds. This design choice has implications for audio quality and fit, often necessitating a sports loop to secure them during physical activities. With a flood of new models hitting the market, selecting the right pair can be daunting. Here, I present my top three picks for 2025.
Earfun OpenJump: Budget-Friendly Choice
The Earfun OpenJump may not top the list in terms of performance, but they offer a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers. Released at $79.99 / £99.99 / AU$149.99, these earbuds have already seen price reductions, making them an attractive choice for those seeking affordability.
Earfun is renowned for producing cost-effective audio products, and the OpenJump continues this tradition. While the audio quality and design might not rival premium models, they suffice for the price point. Notably, the battery life is impressive, catering to music lovers and athletes who require extended playtime.
Despite being the third choice on this list, the Earfun OpenJump’s affordability makes them a viable alternative for those hesitant to invest in pricier models.
Honor Earbuds Open: Feature-Packed Performer
The Honor Earbuds Open stand out with their unique feature set. Surprisingly, they include noise cancellation, a rarity in open earbuds, which helps mitigate intrusive ambient noise. This feature is particularly beneficial in noisy environments like urban settings or gyms.
In addition to noise cancellation, the Honor Earbuds Open boast a workout EQ mode and an AI translator app. However, the battery life is less impressive compared to competitors. Audio-wise, they offer a bass-rich sound with high maximum volume and sharp treble, addressing common issues with open earbuds.
These earbuds are the most expensive on this list, priced at £149.99 / AU$380 (approximately $200). While they may strain some budgets, their feature set justifies the cost for those seeking advanced functionality.
Huawei FreeArc: Best Overall Sound
The Huawei FreeArc emerges as my favorite open-earbuds, consistently delivering balanced and detailed audio. Their superior sound quality sets them apart from the competition, making them a frequent choice for my personal use.
The fit of the Huawei FreeArc is another highlight, providing stability during various activities, from running to gym workouts. While the case is slightly larger than the Honor’s, it remains compact and protective.
However, the FreeArc lacks some features found in the Honor, such as noise cancellation. Additionally, the app installation process can be cumbersome for Android users, requiring side-loading. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Huawei FreeArc is reasonably priced at £99.99 (approximately $130, AU$200), offering excellent value for the quality they deliver.
“The Huawei FreeArc are the best-sounding open earbuds I’ve tested yet, by quite a margin – audio sounds balanced and detailed.” – TechRadar Review
The Rise of Open Earbuds: A New Era in Audio
The increasing popularity of open earbuds reflects a broader trend in audio technology towards multifunctionality and user safety. As urban environments become busier, the ability to remain aware of one’s surroundings while enjoying music is a significant advantage. This trend is likely to continue, with more brands entering the market and innovating in this space.
Looking ahead, the challenge for manufacturers will be to enhance audio quality and feature sets while maintaining affordability. As technology advances, we can expect further improvements in battery life, sound quality, and user-friendly features, making open earbuds an even more attractive option for consumers.
In conclusion, whether you’re a budget-conscious buyer, a feature-seeker, or an audiophile, the current market offers a range of open earbuds to suit your needs. As these devices continue to evolve, they promise to redefine how we experience music in our daily lives.
