For years, we’ve considered Sony one of our favorite headphone makers in the game, with its noise-canceling WH-1000XM4 (and their three predecessors) perennially topping our list of the best headphones and earning Digital Trends’ Editor’s Choice honors. So when Sony released its true wireless earbud version, the WF-1000XM3, in 2019, we weren’t surprised at all when they wowed us by offering substantial noise-canceling, great fidelity, and the same great app-based features we have enjoyed from the company for years. But in the time since their debut, some strong contenders have emerged. Apple’s AirPods Pro made their own splashy launch, as did the Google Pixel Buds 2 and Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2. We still think very highly of the WF-1000XM3, but these competitors have proven that Sony’s accomplishments are no longer unique. The WF-1000XM3’s name confusingly bears an “M3,” or Mark 3, to match the uber-popular over-ear WH-1000XM3 (which have since been superseded by the even be...

Awesome sound and call quality; Fantastic battery life; Great noise canceling; Compelling app-based features; Comfortable fit;

No water resistance; A bit bulky;

The Sony WF-1000XM3 is great-sounding AirPods alternative, especially if you want active noise-cancelling. The Sony WF-1000XM3 is more than just a do-over done right for the brand (I'm looking at you, WF-SP700N).

Stellar audio performance, Great noise cancellation, Tons of personalization via companion app, Excellent battery life across the board, Luxe, sharp-looking design

Touch controls could use some work, Poor call quality, Loose-fitting tips

The Sony WF-1000XM3 headphones are among the best true wireless headphones out there. They’re not perfect — they could offer a longer battery life, and they’re a little big — but with an excellent sound-quality, great noise cancellation, and a classy design, if you’re looking for awesome true...

Despite some small drawbacks, the Sony WF-1000XM3 is among the best true wireless headphones of 2019.

The WF-1000XM3 sound excellent for true-wireless headphones, with a premium look and feel; They have effective active noise cancellation, decent battery life and USB-C charging (with a quick-charge feature); Touch controls

Not sweat-resistant; not a discreet looking as some competing models; call performance could be a little better

If you're looking for the best alternative to the Apple AirPods, these ought to sit towards the top of the list.

Noise-cancelling; Stylish design

No sweat proofing / water resistance; Software features are inconsistent

Despite some small drawbacks, the Sony WF-1000XM3 is among the best true wireless headphones of 2019.

The WF-1000XM3 sound excellent for true-wireless headphones, with a premium look and feel; They have effective active noise cancellation, decent battery life and USB-C charging (with a quick-charge feature); Touch controls.

Not sweat-resistant; not as discreet looking as some competing models; call performance could be a little better.

Sony hasn't been much of a player in the true wireless (AirPods-style) headphone arena, but its new WF-1000XM3 ($228 at Amazon) may change that. While it's not cheap at $230, it's the best-sounding set of truly wireless earbuds at this price, matching and perhaps even exceeding the performance of pricier competitors from Sennheiser, Beats, Master & Dynamic and Bang & Olufsen. Needless to say, it crushes the AirPods' sound, and has a feature the AirPods don't have: Active noise cancellation.

Despite some small drawbacks, the Sony WF-1000XM3 is among the best true wireless headphones of 2019.

The WF-1000XM3 sound excellent for true-wireless headphones, with a premium look and feel; They have effective active noise cancellation, decent battery life and USB-C charging (with a quick-charge feature); Touch controls.

Not sweat-resistant; not as discreet looking as some competing models; call performance could be a little better.

A distinct lack of water and sweat resistance aside, the Sony WF-1000XM3s are a treat for the ears. The design and execution hits all the right notes and the extended battery life cements them as a clear winner in the true wireless category. For more, check out our guide to which 2019 true wireless earbuds are worth your time.

If you’re looking for the best alternative to the Apple AirPods, these ought to sit towards the top of the list.

Noise-cancelling; Stylish design;

No sweat proofing / water resistance; Software features are inconsistent;

Sony's latest true wireless earbuds are its best so far. The WF-1000XM3 covers all the bases with ambient sound and active noise cancellation, and that's on top of audio profiles and a custom EQ inside its headphones app. For $230, these are one hell of a deal.

Notwithstanding of the great sound quality, the initial pair of the Sony earbuds ordered was unfortunately defective on arrival, where the battery case would not charge. However, Bing Lee customer was extremely helpful where a replacement was ordered and exchanged.