Wired earbuds are back, and Bose's new noise-cancelling pair shows they're not a gimmick

Bose Noise Cancelling Wired Earbuds.Credit: Bose Published Sep 28, 2026, 1:03 PM EDT Jon is a seasoned journalist who has written definitive coverage of consumer tech at publications like Engadget, Android Authority, and BetaKit. He's an expert on making tech accessible ranging from mobile and PCs to emerging platforms like wearables. When he's not writing, he's going on adventures with ihis family and is an avid photographer. Sign in to your How-To Geek account Wired earbuds are suddenly trendy, and Bose wants to seize the moment by launching its Noise Cancelling Wired Earbuds. In theory, they offer the best features of true wireless earbuds without the hassles of Bluetooth connections or charging. The new models connect to USB-C phones, computers, and tablets. While they play at a fixed 24-bit/48kHz rate, the wired link allows source audio at any bitrate, including lossless. The direct connection also reduces lag, making them better-suited to games and videos than wireless equivalents. Bose uses the same QuietComfort active noise cancellation (ANC) as in its own earbuds and headphones, including an Aware Mode (read: transparency) to let in the outside world. Four mics on the buds themselves block sound, while one on the remote picks up your voice while limiting the rustling sound of your clothes. The buds are gym-ready with IPX4 sweat and water resistance, and use multiple sizes of both silicone tips and wings to stay in your ears. Bose ships the Noise Cancelling Wired Earbuds on October 15 for $99 in Black, White Smoke, and a limited-run Dewdrop Mint color. They're available to pre-order now. Why are wired earbuds popular again? They're a rebellion against modern tech Wireless earbuds are certainly convenient, but the wired varieties are making a comeback both for their practical advantages and the statement they make. There's no pairing, no battery life anxiety, and no fear that you'll drop an earbud down a sewer grate. Audio is more reliable and doesn't have to be compressed. They cost less, too, since they don't need wireless chips or batteries. Wired is the way to go if you value simplicity. More importantly, they serve as a rebellion against the tech-for-tech's-sake push. As with the iPod revival, wired earbuds both harken back to a simpler time and show that you're in no rush to use the latest hardware. Wires tangle, and you'll have wrap them when you're not using them. However, Bose is clearly betting that there's a market for wired earbuds that keep up with ANC and other modern creature comforts.