Many people struggle to fall asleep due to noise, stress, or discomfort. Earbuds for sleeping offer a simple solution. These specialised earbuds block out unwanted sounds, deliver soothing audio, and provide a comfortable fit for hours. Whether you live in a noisy city or have a snoring partner, the right earbuds can help you drift off quickly and wake up refreshed.
What Makes Earbuds for Sleeping Different?
Regular earbuds are not designed for overnight use. Earbuds designed for sleeping are crafted with soft materials, compact shapes, and features that prioritise comfort. They often include:
- Ultra-thin or low-profile designs for side sleepers
- Passive or active noise masking to block distractions
- Long battery life for all-night use
- Sleep tracking and smart alarms in advanced models
These features ensure you can wear them all night without discomfort or interruptions.
Top Features to Look For
When shopping for earbuds for sleeping, focus on these key aspects:
- Comfort: Look for soft, flexible materials and a shape that fits your ear without pressure.
- Battery Life: Choose earbuds that last at least 8 hours on a single charge.
- Noise Masking: Decide if you want passive noise isolation or active noise cancellation.
- Audio Options: Some models play only sleep sounds, while others let you stream music or podcasts.
- Sleep Tracking: Premium earbuds can monitor your sleep patterns and provide insights for better rest.
The Best Earbuds for Sleeping in 2025
Anker Soundcore Sleep A20
The Soundcore Sleep A20 stands out for its comfort and smart features. These earbuds use a 4-point noise masking system and twin-seal ear tips to block out snoring, pets, and street noise. They fit snugly and comfortably, even for side sleepers. The Sleep A20 offers up to 14 hours of battery life in sleep mode and 10 hours in Bluetooth mode. The charging case extends total playtime to 80 hours. You can stream your favourite sleep sounds, music, or podcasts via Bluetooth 5.3. The built-in MEMS sensor tracks your sleep positions and provides detailed analytics through the Soundcore app. AI-powered brainwave audio helps you relax and fall asleep faster. These earbuds for sleeping are ideal for anyone who wants a blend of comfort, technology, and long battery life.
Ozlo Sleepbuds
Ozlo Sleepbuds are designed for maximum comfort and effective noise masking. They use stabilizing ear wings to stay in place without causing pressure, making them perfect for side sleepers. The earbuds produce white noise at just the right volume to mask external sounds, helping you fall asleep quickly. You can choose from up to 10 sleep sounds and set alarms or timers through the app. Sleep tracking features are expected soon. Many users report that these earbuds for sleeping become almost invisible once in your ears, making them easy to wear all night.
Apple AirPods Pro 2
For those who want active noise cancellation and premium audio, the Apple AirPods Pro 2 are a strong choice. They offer excellent sound quality, effective noise cancellation, and minimal noise leakage. The lightweight design and four tip sizes ensure a comfortable fit, especially for back sleepers. Battery life is around six hours per charge, with the case providing up to 30 hours. The AirPods Pro 2 are best for those who want to listen to their own music or podcasts in bed and need strong noise blocking.
Kokoon Nightbuds (Philips Sleep Headphones)
Kokoon Nightbuds, now branded with Philips, are designed specifically for sleep. These earbuds are tiny, soft, and comfortable for side sleepers. They do not have active noise cancellation but offer a variety of sleep sounds and relaxation talks via their app. A unique feature is their sleep tracking, which can fade out audio as you fall asleep. The Nightbuds are a great choice for those who want a lightweight, non-intrusive earbud with smart sleep features.
SnoozeBand Bluetooth Sleep Headphones
The SnoozeBand is a headband featuring ultra-thin speakers, ideal for side sleepers who prefer not to use in-ear buds. The fabric is soft, breathable, and fully washable. You can listen to white noise, music, or guided meditations for up to 12 hours per charge. The headband design ensures comfort in any sleep position and is compatible with all Bluetooth devices. It comes with a shut-down timer and no annoying voice prompts, making it a user-friendly option for uninterrupted sleep.
Comparing the Best Earbuds for Sleeping
| Model | Noise Blocking | Battery Life | Best For | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soundcore Sleep A20 | Passive masking | 14 hrs | Side sleepers | AI brainwave audio, analytics |
| Ozlo Sleepbuds | Passive masking | 10 hrs | Side sleepers | Stabilizing ear wings |
| Apple AirPods Pro 2 | Active cancellation | 6 hrs | Back sleepers | Premium audio, ANC |
| Kokoon Nightbuds | Passive masking | 10+ hrs | Side sleepers | Sleep tracking, audio fadeout |
| SnoozeBand Headband | Passive masking | 12 hrs | Side sleepers, comfort | Washable headband |
Who Should Use Earbuds for Sleeping?
Earbuds for sleeping are ideal for:
- Light sleepers who wake up easily from noise
- People living in noisy environments
- Partners of snorers
- Travellers who need rest on planes or trains
- Anyone who enjoys falling asleep to music, podcasts, or white noise
Choose the model that matches your preferred sleep position, comfort needs, and audio preferences. With the right earbuds for sleeping, you can transform your nights and wake up feeling truly rested.