Wireless earbuds have become an essential everyday accessory, whether you are commuting on the Budapest metro, working from a cafe, or exercising at the gym. The market is crowded with options ranging from budget offerings under 15,000 HUF to premium models exceeding 100,000 HUF. We tested five of the most popular pairs available in Hungary to help you decide which is right for you.
Each pair was tested over two weeks of daily use, including commuting, office work, video calls, and exercise. Sound quality was evaluated using a mix of lossless audio tracks across genres including classical, electronic, hip-hop, and rock.
Samsung Galaxy Buds 2: Best Value for Most Buyers
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 remain one of the best value propositions in the Hungarian earbuds market. Priced around 35,000 HUF, they deliver surprisingly capable active noise cancellation, comfortable fit, and balanced sound quality that punches above their weight class.
Sound signature leans slightly warm, with a gentle bass boost that makes them enjoyable for casual listening. The noise cancellation is not as aggressive as the Sony or Bose options on this list, but it effectively reduces ambient noise on public transport and in moderately noisy offices.
For Samsung phone users in Hungary, the integration is seamless. The Galaxy Wearable app provides extensive customization including a five-band EQ, noise cancellation intensity slider, and touch control mapping. Pairing with non-Samsung Android devices and iPhones works fine too, though you lose some advanced features.
Comparison Table
| Model | ANC | Battery | Price (HUF) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 | Good | 5h + 24h case | ~35,000 |
| Apple AirPods Pro 2 | Excellent | 6h + 30h case | ~89,000 |
| Sony WF-1000XM5 | Excellent | 8h + 24h case | ~95,000 |
| Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds | Excellent | 6h + 18h case | ~109,000 |
| Nothing Ear (2) | Good | 6.3h + 36h case | ~42,000 |
Apple AirPods Pro 2: Best for iPhone Users
If you use an iPhone, the AirPods Pro 2 are essentially the default recommendation. The integration with iOS is unmatched, from instant pairing to seamless switching between Apple devices. The adaptive transparency mode is genuinely impressive, automatically reducing loud sounds like traffic noise while keeping speech clear.
Noise cancellation is among the best we have tested, effectively silencing the rumble of the Budapest tram system and most office chatter. Sound quality is balanced with good detail retrieval, though audiophiles may prefer the slightly richer presentation of the Sony WF-1000XM5.
Available at iSTYLE stores across Hungary, Apple authorized resellers, and major electronics retailers. The USB-C charging case is a welcome upgrade for those who have moved on from Lightning cables.
Sony WF-1000XM5: Best Sound Quality
For listeners who prioritize audio quality above all else, the Sony WF-1000XM5 is the one to get. The Dynamic Driver X delivers a wide, detailed soundstage with punchy bass, clear mids, and extended highs. These earbuds support LDAC high-resolution Bluetooth audio, which makes a noticeable difference when streaming from services that offer lossless quality.
Noise cancellation is on par with the AirPods Pro 2, and the compact design is a significant improvement over the bulkier XM4. Comfort is excellent for extended wear, which matters if you use earbuds throughout your workday.
The main drawback is the price. At around 95,000 HUF in Hungary, they are a premium investment. But if sound quality is your priority, no other true wireless earbuds in this price range compete on pure audio performance. For detailed audio measurements, see Rtings' headphone reviews.
Over-Ear Alternative: Bose QuietComfort 35 II
While this guide focuses on true wireless earbuds, we wanted to mention the Bose QC35 II as an alternative for those who prefer over-ear headphones. Now available at significantly reduced prices in Hungary (often under 80,000 HUF), they remain one of the most comfortable wireless headphones ever made.
The noise cancellation, while not quite matching Bose's newer QC Ultra Headphones, is still effective for commuting and office use. The 20-hour battery life means you can often go a full work week without charging. If earbuds simply do not fit your ears comfortably, this is a proven and reliable alternative.
What to Consider Before Buying
When shopping for wireless earbuds in Hungary, keep these practical points in mind:
- Warranty coverage differs between authorized retailers and grey market imports. Buying from established Hungarian stores ensures you get the full manufacturer warranty with local service options.
- If you regularly commute on the Budapest metro or BKK buses, prioritize strong noise cancellation. The difference between good and excellent ANC is very noticeable in these environments.
- Battery life ratings from manufacturers are measured without ANC. Expect roughly 20-30% less in real-world use with noise cancellation enabled.
- If you frequently take work calls, check how the earbuds handle voice isolation. The AirPods Pro 2 and Sony XM5 lead in call quality among our tested models.
Our Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 offer the best overall value for Hungarian buyers, delivering impressive features at an accessible price. iPhone users should go directly for the AirPods Pro 2, while audiophiles will appreciate the Sony WF-1000XM5. If budget is not a concern and you want premium comfort with top-tier ANC, the Bose QC Ultra Earbuds are worth the investment.
All prices reflect current Hungarian retail pricing as of October 2025.
For ongoing headphone and earbuds reviews with detailed measurements, we recommend Rtings.com and SoundGuys as comprehensive international resources.
