Forget AirPods and save big on these alternative earbuds

AirPods alternatives
(Image credit: iMore)

Apple's AirPods may have been roundly mocked by the internet when they debuted (remember the memes?) but it'd be fair to say the little white earbuds have been a great success.

Easy to use, and packed with clever tech in both the buds and the charging case, they're incredibly popular among iPhone users -- but there are some great options from other manufacturers too. We have a full list of our favorite AirPods alternatives, but there are some that are discounted for Cyber Monday that are worth a look right now.

Don't forget AirPods alternatives can offer different designs (ideal if you're not keen on the pristine white buds Apple offers), can connect more easily with non-Apple devices, and are often cheaper, too. And, in the case of Beats, they offer much the same functionality.

Amazing AirPods alternatives at Cyber Monday discounts

Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earbuds | $249.95 $149.95 at Amazon

Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earbuds | $249.95 $149.95 at Amazon

The first Beats entry on this list, the Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earbuds offer nine hours of listening time between charges, with 24 hours in the case. These feature adjustable, secure-fit ear hooks for lightweight comfort and stability. 


Jabra Elite 7 Pro | $199.99 $119.99 at Amazon

Jabra Elite 7 Pro | $199.99 $119.99 at Amazon

These impressive earbuds are at their all-time high through Amazon. They offer eight hours between charges, with 30 hours in the case. For an enhanced experience, use the  Jabra Sound+ App.

OnePlus Buds Pro Wireless Earbuds | $149.99 $79.99 at Amazon

OnePlus Buds Pro Wireless Earbuds | $149.99 $79.99 at Amazon

For something a little different, consider these earbuds from OnePlus. Available in Matte Black, Glossy White, and silver, you can experience 10 hours of playback between charges with 38 hours stored on the case. 

SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds 2 Pro | $229.99 $197.99 at Amazon

SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds 2 Pro | $229.99 $197.99 at Amazon

With HD voice technology, the Galaxy Buds2 Pro offers hi-fi sound quality, intelligent conversation mode, and more. The included charging case provides 29 hours of coverage. The buds hold 10 hours. I've been testing a pair of these for months and find them to be perhaps the best AirPods alternative. 

Beats Fit Pro | $199.95 $159.95 at Amazon

Beats Fit Pro | $199.95 $159.95 at Amazon

These Beats provide secure-fit wingtips for all-day comfort and stability. Enhanced by the Apple H1 chip, these earbuds support automatic switching, audio sharing, "Hey Siri," and more. Enjoy 24 hours of music with the pocket-sized charging change and six hours on the earbuds themselves. 

Master & Dynamic MW08 | $299.99 $224.25 at Amazon

Master & Dynamic MW08 | $299.99 $224.25 at Amazon

For a premium choice, consider these impressive earbuds from New York-based Master & Dynamic.  Available in six color combinations, these buds are made of light-weight ceramic and offer Bluetooth 5.2. They provide 12 hours of listening per charge plus 30 hours in the case for up to 42 hours of total battery life. 

In the lead-up to Cyber Monday, continue to visit iMore often to see new deals we uncover at the hottest retailers. This year, you will find fantastic discounts on various Apple products, including Apple Watch, iPads, and many more. If you're reconsidering AirPods, consider our Cyber Monday AirPods deals page.

Bryan M Wolfe
Staff Writer

Bryan M. Wolfe has written about technology for over a decade on various websites, including TechRadar, AppAdvice, and many more. Before this, he worked in the technology field across different industries, including healthcare and education. He’s currently iMore’s lead on all things Mac and macOS, although he also loves covering iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. Bryan enjoys watching his favorite sports teams, traveling, and driving around his teenage daughter to her latest stage show, audition, or school event in his spare time. He also keeps busy walking his black and white cocker spaniel, Izzy, and trying new coffees and liquid grapes.