Open earbuds (AKA open-ear buds) are among the fastest-growing trends in audio. Thanks to their distinctive design that keeps your ear canals clear, the best open earbuds let you enjoy your favorite music or media while staying naturally aware of the world. Without any way to block ambient sounds, these probably can't be your everything buds, but they will let you hear everything. We’ve tested dozens of open-ear gadgets, from clip-on buds to audio glasses and everything in between. These are our favorite open earbuds for every fit and budget.
Don’t forget to check out our other guides, like the Best Wireless Earbuds, the Best Workout Headphones, and the Best Wireless Headphones for more traditional options.
Updated June 2025: We've added the Acefast Acefit Air, and updated pricing and copy with the latest information.