I’ve spent enough time switching between the best Android phones to know that wireless earbuds don’t always behave the same way once you try doing anything beyond basic music listening. Some earbuds will connect instantly and stay that way; others need companion apps, extra permissions, or software workarounds to unlock full functionality. Basically, it’s a toss-up. It’s why the Pixel Buds have usually been my reliable choice, mostly for being the exception to this. They’re made by Google, tuned to perform consistently well with Android, and generally behave as expected. But being the default doesn’t necessarily make them the best.
The Pixel Buds are great, but being the default doesn’t make them the best.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, odd as it might seem, it’s not rare to find Android users choosing AirPods as their Bluetooth earbuds of choice. Honestly, it’s easy to see why. They’re familiar and sound good enough. The AirPods have built a reputation for consistency and carry a level of brand cachet that alternatives often don’t. They’re a known commodity, a safe option, and that counts for a lot in a market full of competitors that promise the moon. But that doesn’t mean they are an ideal choice for Android users either. AirPods paired to Android phones will stream music just fine, but without Apple’s deeper ecosystem support, they lose much of what makes them special.