2nd July 2026 – (Hong Kong) Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 has been rated among the best-performing true wireless earbuds in a comparative test by the Consumer Council, while the most expensive model assessed — Bang & Olufsen’s Beoplay Eleven — was found to be among the weakest for battery performance.
The findings were published on 2nd July in the latest issue of CHOICE magazine. Conducted in collaboration with the International Consumer Research and Testing organisation (ICRT), the study examined 55 in-ear true wireless Bluetooth models priced between HK$219 and HK$4,498. The results revealed significant differences in audio quality and battery capability.
In sound performance tests covering speech, classical, rock and jazz music, five professional assessors awarded top marks to both the AirPods Pro 3 and Sony’s WF-1000XM6. The two models were praised for their balanced bass, mid-range and treble output, as well as their clear and immersive vocal reproduction.
For active noise cancellation, the AirPods Pro 3, Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) and Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5 delivered the strongest results in simulated aircraft cabin and street noise environments, each receiving full marks. In terms of comfort, the AirPods Pro 3 and Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro were rated highest, performing well during exercise and when worn with glasses.
Battery performance varied widely. Audio-Technica’s ATH-CKS50TW2 offered the longest playback time at 17 hours and 21 minutes on a single charge, but also recorded the slowest full recharge time at three hours and 25 minutes. Huawei’s FreeBuds Pro 4 achieved the fastest charging speed, requiring only 29 minutes to fully recharge the earbuds and case. At the lower end, Libratone’s AIR+3 managed just four hours and 25 minutes of playback per charge.
Three models received the lowest overall battery score of 2.5 out of 5: the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay Eleven, despite being the priciest at HK$4,498, along with Audio-Technica’s ATH-CKS30TW+ and JLab’s Go Pop ANC. These were criticised for extended charging times, limited quick-charge efficiency and charging cases capable of providing no more than two full recharges.
For those seeking affordability, the Xiaomi Redmi Buds 5, priced at HK$219, was identified as offering reasonable overall performance for its cost.
The Consumer Council advised consumers to assess their personal needs and budget before making a purchase, noting that suitable options are available across all price ranges. Users were reminded to avoid excessive volume levels and to make use of built-in output limiters to protect their hearing. As in-ear models sit deep within the ear canal, regular cleaning of detachable ear tips is recommended, and sharing of earphones should be avoided. Prolonged use may impede airflow in the ear canal and increase the risk of wax build-up or infection, and medical advice should be sought if discomfort arises.