Forget wireless headphones – 2019 is all about true wireless earbuds. These free-floating buds are completely free from all wires, much like the tiny earpieces in spy movies. What’s more, they each come with a clever charging case to boosts their battery life on-the-go. Apple’s AirPods are the world’s most popular true wireless earbuds, but are they the most impressive? Here’s how to get the best buds…

THE APPLE FANS’ CHOICE

The new high-end version of Apple’s AirPods – the AirPods Pro – feature Active Noise Cancellation tech to block out the world, a choice of eartips to ensure a snug fit, and a much higher price tag. The futuristic white earrings work with any Bluetooth device, but the best features only work with iPhones and iPads. Audio Sharing, for example, which is the virtual equivalent of a 1990s headphone splitter.

£249; apple.com/uk

THE DESIGN GEEK’S CHOICE

This NYC-based hipster audio firm – considered catnip for creatives – has just launched its latest pair of stylish, ultra-light ‘buds. The durable Master & Dynamic MW07 GO‘s are crafted from TR90, an ultra-strong composite typically used to make sporty eyewear. Rated IPX6 water-resistant, they can handle rain, sweat and drool. Shout out to the mind-blowing fast-charge function: 15 minutes of charging returns 5 hours of playtime. Incredible.

£179; masterdynamic.co.uk

THE AUDIOPHILE’S CHOICE

Despite the kooky name, the award-winning Cambridge Audio Melomania 1 true wireless earbuds are serious about sound. They offer nine hours battery life from a single charge for music on the go (45 hours in total with the compact charging case) and deliver a best-in-class sonic performance that belies their tiny size and lightweight stature.

£120; amazon.co.uk

THE TECHNOPHILE’S CHOICE

The might Sony WF-1000XM3‘s are considered to be most futuristic true wireless earbuds around. They feature state-of-the-art noise-cancelling tech that blocks out the world – plus a handy ambient mode for cyclists. Sound quality is exquisite and the charging case boosts total battery life to 24 hours. Expensive, but a darn good reason to smash the piggyback open.

£209; amazon.co.uk

THE FITNESS FANS CHOICE

Apple snapped up Beats Audio for $3billion a few years ago, so these Beats Powerbeats Pro true wireless earbuds feature Apple’s H1 chip. It delivers a killer version of Bluetooth that ensures fast pairing and no signal drops. They’re also sweat and water-resistant and come with big ol’ ear hooks. So, unlike the AirPods, they’ll stay secure during Boxercise. Chunky, but the battery lasts twice as long as the AirPods’.

£219; amazon.co.uk

Hungry for more audio tech? Check out out cut of the most stylish vinyl turntables