Wireless Earbuds That Let You Replace the Batteries

Many wireless earbuds on the market are designed with non-replaceable batteries, making them essentially disposable after a few years. However, there are some earbuds models that allow users to replace the batteries, giving them a longer lifespan and reducing electronic waste. In this article, we will explore seven earbuds models that let you replace the batteries.

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Fairphone Fairbuds

One of the most notable examples of earbuds with replaceable batteries is the Fairphone Fairbuds. Fairphone’s whole business model is centered around repairability, and its Fairbuds earbuds are no exception. The earbuds are designed to be modular and serviceable, with easily accessible screws and no glue or convoluted manufacturing. This means that users can easily replace the batteries in the Fairbuds, as well as repair the charging case.

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iFixit, a popular repair guide website, has given the Fairbuds a perfect repairability score, making it the first earbuds model to achieve this feat. While user reviews on Amazon are mixed, with some users praising the repairability and sound quality, others have criticized the fit and reliability. However, for users who value repairability, the Fairbuds are definitely worth considering.

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Sony WF-1000XM3 and WF-1000XM4

Sony is another company that has offered earbuds with replaceable batteries. The WF-1000XM3 and WF-1000XM4 earbuds ship with easily replaceable coin cell batteries. iFixit notes that the MX3s are particularly repairable, and while the MX4s are not as easy to open up, the batteries are still fairly replaceable. However, with the release of the XM5 and XM6 earbuds, Sony has made the experience of replacing the batteries much harder, and attempting to do so can damage the earbuds permanently.

Despite this, users can still find the older XM3 and XM4 earbuds on the market, which offer a more straightforward experience of replacing the batteries. This is a great option for users who want to extend the lifespan of their earbuds without breaking the bank.

Samsung Galaxy Buds Live

Another earbuds model that offers replaceable batteries is the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live. Released in 2020, these earbuds were arguably Samsung’s last easily serviceable offering. While they still require some careful work to access the battery, users can easily replace the CP1254 batteries on Amazon for $19.99. This is a great option for users who want to keep their earbuds running for a longer period.

Bang & Olufsen Beoplay Eleven

Bang & Olufsen’s Beoplay Eleven earbuds may seem like a pricey option at $599, but they do offer replaceable batteries. However, users will need to take their earbuds to a Bang & Olufsen service center to have the battery replaced. While this may not be what users expect from replaceable batteries, it is still a step in the right direction.

Sennheiser Momentum 5 earbuds (coming soon)

Sennheiser’s upcoming Momentum 5 earbuds are set to offer user-replaceable batteries in both the earbuds and the charging case. This is a great option for users who want to extend the lifespan of their earbuds without breaking the bank. With a price tag of $299.95, these earbuds are definitely worth considering.

Microsoft Surface Earbuds (discontinued)

Finally, Microsoft’s Surface Earbuds were reportedly very easy to replace, using a standard coin cell battery. However, these earbuds have been discontinued, making them difficult to find.

It’s worth noting that new regulations, particularly from the EU, are forcing companies to make their devices less consumable. This means that devices will likely start shipping with more readily replaceable batteries, so that the entire product doesn’t need to go once the batteries die.