Wireless in-ears

Don’t fancy faffing about with tangle-happy headphone cables any more? Pop a pair of these free-spirited buds into your lugs and move on with your life

Cut those cables out of your life

Samsung Gear Iconx (2018)

What’s the story? Samsung’s audio pedigree has been mixed to say the least, but its new buds talk a good redemption story. There’s a built-in running coach, touch controls for playback, 3.4GB of storage for over 1000 songs and battery life of up to seven hours. This all sounds mighty impressive, but will count for nowt if they don’t sound decent.

Are they any good?

Much to our surprise, these Samsungs mostly match up to their techy prowess with audio that’s among the best you can find in a pair of in-ear buds. There’s a precise, spacious sound here with a healthy thud of bass when needed. Our one major qualm is a coarseness through the midrange and treble that grates at higher volumes.

Price £199 / stuff.tv/iconx

Stuff says ++++,

A tech-packed pair of buds that are only let down by harshness at loud volumes

Bose Soundsport Free

What’s the story? Apple’s Airpods might be the most ubiquitous wireless in-ears but they’re far from the best for getting a sweat on. Built specifically with exercise in mind, Bose’s Soundsport Free earphones are resistant to both sweat and water, so they’ll withstand the gnarliest workouts. Despite their chunky vibe they fit pretty well too, thanks to their winged tips that rest against the inside of your ear.

Are they any good?

The Boses hold up as decent gym buddies with a bold, balanced sound that’s blessed with rich and weighty bass. They skip out on noise-cancellation, but that’s a blessing in disguise for runners who are looking to stay in one piece amid the city hustle and bustle. A slightly unreliable audio connection is a far greater annoyance.

Price £180 / stuff.tv/soundsportfree

Stuff says ++++,

Occasional audio dropouts see these buds fall just short of true sporting greatness

Sony WF-1000X What’s the story?

Our headphones of the year from 2017’s Stuff Awards might not be as multifaceted as their latest rivals, but they still have the sonic chops to hold their own. Combining noise-cancelling skills that can adapt to your environment, controls for audio playback and a whopping nine-hour battery life, they give plenty of boom for your buck. There’s even a microphone for voice control.

Are they any good?

As is the case for a lot of Sony’s headphones these days, the WF-1000XS marry impressive detail with good noise-cancelling tech. There’s a satisfying combination of lightness and surefootedness to these buds. Dynamic range is impressive too, ensuring the rhythm and musicality of your playlists is kept in balance.

Price £199 / stuff.tv/wf1000x

Stuff says +++++

Last year’s award-winners are still our favourite wireless buds