If you're still using a pair of Surface Earbuds in 2025, five long years after they first debuted, you might want to make sure they're fully charged all of the time. I own three pairs of Surface Earbuds, all of which haven't been used in over a year, and none of them work anymore.

In their deep sleep, all three sets have forgotten how to be headphones. Two of them will no longer take a charge, meaning the earbuds won't receive power and the case can't handle pairing and syncing the earbuds to a device. One of my sets does still take a charge, but for whatever reason the left earbud no longer works.

Taking a quick look online, it seems I'm not the only one facing these issues. There are countless reports from people online complaining about their Surface Earbuds no longer showing signs of life, or showing a red blinking LED light which appears to translate to an error with charging.

If you've been daily driving your Surface Earbuds and exercising their batteries, yours will likely still work fine. But if you've had yours sat in a drawer for a handful of months or years, there's a high chance your earbuds will never wake from their sleep again. If you haven't used yours in a while, go and power them up to see if yours are okay.

I haven't used my Surface Earbuds in over a year because I moved on to better earbuds, but I recently had my Galaxy Buds Pro 3 stolen and needed a set of headphones in the interim. I thought the two pairs of $200 earbuds I bought a handful of years ago would suffice, but apparently not.

To complete my investigation, I went out and bought a brand-new, third set of Surface Earbuds on eBay for $70 to see if these devices really were killing themselves in their deep sleep. I unwrapped the product and plugged it in, and unfortunately the case also failed to take a charge, which confirms that if you leave these depleted for a long period of time, they'll eventually never wake up.

It's a shame, as even though the Surface Earbuds were never popular, they did at least look interesting. I was excited to go back to using my Surface Earbuds in the wake of my Galaxy Buds being stolen, but unfortunately that doesn't look like it can happen now.

Now, if you're thinking it's normal for battery powered technology to stop working after being discharged for a long period of time. I have a first-gen pair of Apple AirPods that haven't been used in years, and they still take a charge and hold power just fine. Battery life is incredibly poor, but they still wake up and function.

Looking back on my coverage of the Surface Earbuds, the fact that they eventually stop charging if you leave them depleted for long enough was already a documented issue. As far back as 2022, people were receiving new Surface Earbuds and finding that they wouldn't charge when unboxed.

I've also seen several reports online where the left earbuds fails to take a charge or no longer connects to any devices regardless of charge state. That appears to be what's happening with one of my sets. The case powers on, and I'm even able to connect it to a device, but only the right earbud takes any audio signal, with the left one essentially acting dead.

Unsurprisingly, the Surface Earbuds haven't been supported by Microsoft for many years. In fact, the company only ever shipped two firmware updates for the buds, both of which dropped in the same year the device first went on sale in 2020. Since then, Microsoft gave them no love and were essentially abandoned by 2022.

The good news is the Surface Headphones appear to not suffer from this death sleep issue. I have multiple sets of the over-ear Surface Headphones that haven't been charged in over a year, and those still take power and function fine. It just appears to be the Surface Earbuds that won't take a charge after being depleted for a long period of time.

So, a PSA to the few of you left still daily driving Surface Earbuds or using them every so often. If you want to keep using them, make sure they never deplete to zero for too long. If they do, they may never wake up. And if you were looking to buy a new pair: don't.

The Surface Earbuds are a weird product in Microsoft’s line of Surface devices. Now over two years old, and still available to buy at a close to launch price of $160, the Surface Earbuds might be the worst “Surface” branded device you can buy brand new right now. They launched at a time when the wireless earbuds space was heating up and offered less than the competition while charging more.

Are they the best in audio quality? Definitely not. Are they the best designed? Most would argue that they aren’t. Are they the most comfortable? That depends, but I know a lot of people claim they don’t properly fit in their ears. Do they support wireless charging? Nope. Is the case premium? Mine scratches easily and the lid feels flimsy. Nothing about the product screams $160 premium earbuds.

And those are just the issues with the hardware in general, this doesn’t include hardware and software faults of which there are many. Usually, a wearable device like this would receive multiple firmware updates over the lifecycle of the product as the company strives to improve them, especially on a first-generation device.  

Frustratingly, absolutely nothing has happened with the Surface Earbuds since they launched. Taking a quick look at the Surface Earbuds firmware update history page, the last time the Surface Earbuds received any new features or fixes was in… September 2020. That was over two years ago. The first firmware update was in May 2020 when the Earbuds launched, and then again in September 2020 when the “Graphite” colorway was released.

This implies that Microsoft thought the launch day version of each Surface Earbuds colorway was good enough that they didn’t need any further updates, which is abhorrently untrue. Here’s a list of the issues I’ve come across in my two years of daily driving the Surface Earbuds:

• Hissing noise from earbuds when audio is playing
• Audio desync between left and right earbuds
• Poor latency between earbuds and connected device
• Bluetooth connection issues in crowded places
• One earbud not charging in the case
• Earbuds are unable to charge once the battery is depleted

Some of these problems could definitely be solved with firmware updates, but Microsoft hasn’t released any for over 28 months. Even though Microsoft continues to sell the Surface Earbuds new, at the full price of $200, I think it’s fair to say that this product has pretty much been abandoned.

Just because I was curious, I looked around for the update history details for other popular wireless earbuds. To compare, the Apple AirPods 2 have received 7 firmware updates since May 2020. Nothing Ear 1 buds have received multiple since they launched in September 2021, too. Launching earbuds and never updating them again is not the norm.

Also, the Surface Earbuds are absolutely not worth $160 today. They were barely worth that back in 2020. When you consider the likes of Nothing, OnePlus, and even Apple, who are shipping wireless earbuds for $150 or less, with superior sound and active noise cancellation, there’s literally no reason to buy the Surface Earbuds currently.

My sources have said that Microsoft was working on a successor to the Surface Earbuds, codenamed Ella, that was supposed to launch before the end of this year. We're now at the end of the year and that never happened. I hope they’ve simply been delayed and not canceled, though I wouldn’t be surprised if they have.

Microsoft's abandonment of the first Surface Earbuds should be a huge red flag for any potential buyers of a second-generation pair. Why should anyone buy them if Microsoft is going to abandon them the second they hit the market? This product segment is competitive, and there are many other brands that will commit to supporting their own wireless earbuds for longer.

If Surface Earbuds 2 does eventually ship, I hope Microsoft does a much better job at supporting them for longer than a few months. I also hope they have Active Noise Cancelling, a better design, and wireless charging because that’s pretty much the standard for wireless earbuds in the $200 price category these days.

Many of the best Surface accessories are discounted right now through Best Buy. To take part in the deal, you have to bundle two accessories together. The Surface Slim Pen, Surface Earbuds, and several Surface mice are available to bundle. Surface accessories normally sell at premium prices, so any time you can get them at a discount is worth a look.

Getting the discount takes a few more clicks than you might expect. On any Best Buy listing for Surface accessories, you'll see the text "Hot offer save on 2 Select Surface Accessories." Clicking this directs you to a page of the highest-rated bundles. In my testing, all of the suggested bundles are for a pair of Surface Mobile mice. While you certainly could purchase mice in two colors, or a mouse for each hand, you can easily bundle other devices.

At the top of the page, there's an option labeled "Build my Package." This takes you to a page to freely choose which Surface accessories you'd like to bundle. The Surface Mobile Mouse drops down to $15 when bundled. The Surface Slim Pen is only $107 when included in a bundle. Note that the lower prices only appear after you've added them to your package. In my testing, all deals reduce your total by a combined $40.

Alternatively, if you just add two Surface accessories to your cart, the deal will activate automatically on checkout.

Getting the deal is more confusing than it should be, but it's a good way to get Surface accessories at a discount. If you're on the hunt for a keyboard, mouse, pen, or charger, it's worth playing around with the package creator.

The Surface lineup now extends far beyond its premium PCs, including a growing audio presence through its accessories. Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 and Microsoft Surface Earbuds currently represent the two flagship audio flavors, providing cable-free listening across Windows PCs and mobile devices. And while both Microsoft's newest wireless audio solutions, differences in form and features firmly separate these across well-defined audiences.

The primary conversation surrounding Surface Headphones 2 and Surface Earbuds lands with its physical form factor and the benefits enabled by each category. While Microsoft's trusty over-ear headphones provide a high-quality soundscape masked by noise cancellation, truly-wireless earbuds grant mobility and awareness via their compact footprint.

And with Amazon Prime Day fast approaching, new opportunities to secure either product at a discount may arise. The company's two staple audio accessories released earlier 2020, but we may see small price cuts into the fall. Finding either Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 or Microsoft Surface Earbuds below their respective $250 and $200 RRPs likely means you're seeing limited-time discounted pricing.

How the Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 compare to Microsoft Surface Earbuds

Surface Headphones 2 represent Redmond's second attempt at wireless headphones, introducing minor refinements while slicing the retail cost by around 30 percent. The robust yet lightweight design keeps these easy on your end, bolstered by a padded headband and earcups to support prolonged usage. The onboard 40 mm Free Edge drivers also impress, and while undoubtedly subjective, Microsoft represents the higher end of wireless listening.

The biggest draw of the Surface Headphones 2 come through active noise-cancellation (ANC) enabled by software and microphones, and passive noise-canceling through the physical design. Microsoft's preferred ANC implemented centers around ear-mounted dials, with the option to ease between active-noise cancellation or the audio-boost features. The approach provides further granularity across 13 stages, over a simple on-off switch. The other ear also sports a volume dial, while simple touch controls put playback and voice assistant a few taps away.

The improvements under the latest revision aren't game-changing, with refinements to an already encompassing feature set. You receive the same design, materials, and weight of the past, coupled with minor tweaks for daily use. That includes 20-hour battery life upped by 25 percent, a fancy 180-degree earcup hinge, and the new matte black colorway. The internal refresh also modernizes connectivity through Bluetooth 5.0, Qualcomm aptX, and SBC low-complexity sub-band codec.

The strengths of the Surface Headphones 2 aren't hard to identify when stacked against the Surface Earbuds, primarily attributed to their hardware differences. The over-ear form factor does wonders for sound quality, while its padded, lightweight design exceeds comfort expectations. The broad silhouette enables a more robust, isolated audio experience — especially ideal when at the desk or demanding quality listening on the move.

While the Surface Headphones 2 further iterate on an established product entry, the Surface Earbuds are the latest Microsoft experiment. The company's first truly-wireless earbuds provide a more versatile solution for calls and audio playback, condensing your listening experience for all-day usage. It's an opposing philosophy to the over-ear alternative, best suited during the commute or presenting in the board room.

The Surface Earbuds pack the fundamentals of any modern wireless earbuds, including Bluetooth connectivity to Windows PCs, iOS, and Android. They sit comfortably in-ear, crucial to its pursuit of all-day listening, with three optional tips to tailor the fit. They also boast impressive battery life for the category with 8 hours per charge and up to 24 hours through the included case. You'll lose any form of noise cancelation by design, allowing the wearer to retain awareness in the office environment.

The primary differentiator with Microsoft's wireless earbuds is the distinct disc-style construction, which provides a smooth touchpad for gestures. Taps and swipes control playback, adjust volume, and hail your digital assistant, without the need to pull out your phone. Microsoft also packs a variety of productivity-focused tools under its Microsoft 365 suite, such as dictation and live PowerPoint translation, but many are also attainable to other headphones.

While Microsoft pitches the Surface Earbuds as a fusion of entertainment and productivity, they're undoubtedly geared toward getting things done. The design overlooks several standardized fundamentals across many rivals, while also doing little to stand out. But if you want to experience Microsoft's on-the-go vision, these are the earbuds for you.

Check out more tips on getting the most out of your headphones and earbuds.

• Windows
  • Headphones Team Windows Central uses every day
  • The least you should spend on earbuds
  • Your next headphones need these features
  • The way we use earbuds is evolving
  • Surface Headphones vs. Earbuds
  • Are AirPods good on Windows?
  • Pair AirPods on Windows
  • Surface Earbuds vs. AirPods
  • Surface Earbuds vs. Galaxy Buds Plus
  • Are Pixel Buds good on Windows?
  • Bluetooth vs. wired headphones
  • Best headphones for Skype
  • Best headphones for Zoom
  • The best headset for students
• Gaming
  • How to find the right PC gaming headset
• Android
  • Surface Earbuds and Android
  • Are AirPods good for Android?
  • What Android users should know about EQ
  • 10 underrated features you need in your next pair of headphones
  • Why some Bluetooth headphones sound better than others
  • Team AC's favorite headphones & earbuds
  • Earbuds are changing how we consume audio
  • Spatial audio and Android is here
  • How little can you spend on earbuds and still enjoy listening?
• Apple
  • Best cheap AirPod knockoffs
  • Are Surface Earbuds good for Apple users?
  • Are Pixel Buds good for Apple users?
  • What iPhone users should know about EQ
  • Apple Watch and hearing damage
  • Best EQ apps for iOS
  • Spatial Audio and AirPods Pro

What you need to know

• Best Buy is selling some colorful new cases for Surface Earbuds.
• Made by SaharaCase, the cases come in red, black, teal, and pink.
• Each color is available at Best Buy now for $30 a pop.

If you want to add an extra pop of color to your Surface Earbuds — and some added protection, too — Best Buy has some new SaharaCase cases that will do the trick. The cases are available in four colors, and they each come with a handy little clip to hook them to a bag, belt loop, or whatever you want to attach them to. The only catch? They're $30 a pop.

The cases are made of silicone, so expect a relativelt grippy texture. SaharaCase claims they're also slim and form-fitting, so they shouldn't add too much bulk.

SaharaCase only shows the cases on Microsoft's original lighter colored Surface Earbuds, so you'll have to use your imagination if you recently picked up a set of the new Graphite Grey Surface Earbuds.

What you need to know

• Graphite Grey Surface Earbuds are now available.
• Previously, the Surface Earbuds were only available in Glacier White
• The Surface Earbuds cost $200.

Microsoft's Surface Earbuds are now available for purchase. The darker earbuds join the Glacier White Surface Earbuds that were already available. Regardless of the color you choose, the Surface Earbuds cost $200.

The Graphite Grey Surface Earbuds are otherwise identical to the Surface Earbuds that were already available, so don't expect any new features or improvements.

The Surface Earbuds look a bit different than other earbuds, as they have a surface large enough to support gestures for controlling media. They're designed with comfort in mind, and earned high marks in our review thanks to their balanced audio and excellent battery life.

If you're debating about getting the Surface Earbuds, make sure to check out some of our comparisons, such as Surface Earbuds vs. Apple Airpods, Surface Headphones 2 vs. Surface Earbuds, and Surface Earbuds vs. Samsung Galaxy Buds Plus.

What you need to know

• The Surface Earbuds have a new firmware update.
• The update brings the ability to turn the aptX codec on or off.
• When the aptX codec is off, the Surface Earbuds use the SBC codec.

Microsoft's Surface Earbuds have a new update that brings just a single change. Following the update to version 3.0.0.6, the Surface Earbuds now let you turn the aptX codec on or off.

Microsoft's support page for the Surface Earbuds outlines the change, which can also be found below.

If you turn the aptX codec off on the Surface Earbuds, the buds will use the SBC codec instead.

The update for the Surface Earbuds should be available now.

What you need to know

• Graphite Grey Surface Earbuds are coming September 10.
• They join the already available Glacier White Surface Earbuds.
• Pricing starts at $199.

Microsoft has today announced that the Graphite Grey variant of its new Surface Earbuds will be launching September 10, several months after the Surface Earbuds launched in Glacier White. The new Graphite Grey option will cost the same as the Glacier White model at $199.

There's nothing else really new with this new model of Surface Earbuds, as it's just the color that's been updated. Many have been waiting for a darker color choice for Surface Earbuds, as they were announced alongside the white pair back in October last year. For some unknown reason, the Graphite Grey model was delayed until now.

Microsoft's Surface Earbuds are a unique pair of truly wireless headphones with excellent sound and premium comfort. Featuring 8 hours of charge, special integration with Microsoft 365, and intuitive touch controls for answering calls, changing volume, and controlling your music.

You'll be able to pick up the Surface Earbuds in Graphite Grey starting September 10 if you feel that the darker aesthetic is something you prefer. If not, you can buy the Glacier White pair today and have them in your hands by the end of the week.

Microsoft has entered the wireless in-ear audio space with Surface Earbuds, translating its premium hardware lineup into a highly competitive space. Samsung Galaxy Buds+ sit among the best, refreshing its signature earbuds with impressive audio quality, comfort, and battery life improvements. And while Microsoft doubles down on productivity, Galaxy Buds+ remain best suited to the average listener.

Can Surface Earbuds take on Samsung's Galaxy Buds?

Microsoft is the latest company jumping on the truly wireless earbud hype, further extending its Surface hardware family beyond its roots with premium PCs. The growing accessories offering follows up the Surface Headphones with a new in-ear alternative, presented for music playback, through to nailing that big presentation. That fusion of lifestyle and productivity carves a distinct angle in a crowded space, while also exceeding expectations in audio fidelity and comfort.

Surface Earbuds share fundamental foundations with any untethered rival, providing hassle-free listening for music, calls, and more, across mobiles, tablets, and PCs. Enhanced functionality comes with the Microsoft 365 suite, hooking into Office applications and Outlook emails to get stuff done while on the move.

Samsung Galaxy Buds+ are the latest from the mobile giant, following up the original Galaxy Buds with an incremental successor. These earbuds sit alongside a broader line of Galaxy-branded devices, focused on the essentials to deliver streamlined, easy to use audio. And with a retail price that undercuts many rivals, it improves one of the best wireless audio picks with new features.

However, both corporations have their priorities and preferred platforms, with exclusive features based on the devices you choose. The ubiquitous Bluetooth connectivity makes both ideal for iOS and Android, or Mac and PC — but based on what you're looking for, it's a simple choice for most.

Microsoft Surface Earbuds and Samsung Galaxy Buds+ both feature impressive hardware — even more impressive when condensed into a compact form factor. Both earbuds showcase their respective manufacturers' audio talent, with comfort to support their ambitions as an all-day companion. While Surface Earbuds weigh a little more than Galaxy Buds+, the design compensates that difference, with no impact on usage.

Each company also has its own in-ear feel, with Microsoft featuring three traditional earbud tips, and Samsung's design sitting in the ear canal, anchored by "wingtips." This age-old debate existed before the wireless era and primarily came down to personal preference.

Microsoft differentiates its earbuds from rivals through several fundamental traits, with the most prominent its disk-shaped design. The additional surface area creates room for side-mounted touchpads on each earbud, enabling simple touch controls by tapping and swiping in preconfigured gestures. These allow the user to control playback, skip tracks, change volume, or even summon their digital assistant. Android users can also triple-tap to generate a randomized Spotify playlist, while iOS (and Android, soon) taps into "Play My Emails" to have their Outlook inbox read aloud. Galaxy Buds+ also feature integrated touchpads, but they're locked down to taps in simple patterns. Various sequences allow you to control music and hail digital assistants, with reliable results.

You'll also be well served by Microsoft and Samsung for battery life, guaranteeing an all-day charge when listening on the move. The Surface Earbuds promise 24 hours, eight hours per charge, and three top-ups via the included charging case. The Galaxy Buds+ pack 22 hours, almost double the original Galaxy Buds, with 11 hours of charge and an identical boost through the cradle. Samsung's case also packs wireless charging, exposing an area where Microsoft falls behind the competition.

Microsoft's signature spin with the Surface Earbuds come with ties to its growing Microsoft 365 offerings, exploring various productivity applications throughout its suite. That includes enhancements to PowerPoint, allowing users to control presentations with an earbud swipe, or transcribing their speech as on-screen captions in real-time. Its growing cloud reliance also allows for instant translation, churning out your captions in over 60 languages. You can dictate documents and emails or listen to your inbox through iOS devices, too. But most of these features aren't unique to Surface Earbuds and can be achieved with any third-party headphones.

But Surface Earbuds don't come without compromise, overlooking several standard features. With no wireless charging for the case, no ability to see how much battery is left in the case, no in-ear detection, and other absent features, they fall behind the AirPods and Galaxy Buds that dominate the space. In my weeks using Surface Earbuds, they sparked frustration over missing features, rather than shining for their strengths. And with a higher asking price than similarly capable earbuds, they fail to justify the investment.

For the average user, Samsung outperforms Microsoft's offerings — especially for those using Android devices. Surface Earbuds target a specific audience, primarily pushing productivity, whether on back-to-back calls or preparing your next presentation. But for everyday audio, whether chatting or entertainment, Galaxy Buds+ lead the pack, while also being $50 cheaper.

Check out more tips on getting the most out of your headphones and earbuds.

• Windows
  • Headphones Team Windows Central uses every day
  • The least you should spend on earbuds
  • Your next headphones need these features
  • The way we use earbuds is evolving
  • Surface Headphones vs. Earbuds
  • Are AirPods good on Windows?
  • Pair AirPods on Windows
  • Surface Earbuds vs. AirPods
  • Surface Earbuds vs. Galaxy Buds Plus
  • Are Pixel Buds good on Windows?
  • Bluetooth vs. wired headphones
  • Best headphones for Skype
  • Best headphones for Zoom
  • The best headset for students
• Gaming
  • How to find the right PC gaming headset
• Android
  • Surface Earbuds and Android
  • Are AirPods good for Android?
  • What Android users should know about EQ
  • 10 underrated features you need in your next pair of headphones
  • Why some Bluetooth headphones sound better than others
  • Team AC's favorite headphones & earbuds
  • Earbuds are changing how we consume audio
  • Spatial audio and Android is here
  • How little can you spend on earbuds and still enjoy listening?
• Apple
  • Best cheap AirPod knockoffs
  • Are Surface Earbuds good for Apple users?
  • Are Pixel Buds good for Apple users?
  • What iPhone users should know about EQ
  • Apple Watch and hearing damage
  • Best EQ apps for iOS
  • Spatial Audio and AirPods Pro

Microsoft Surface Earbuds are Redmond's first attempt at wireless in-ear audio, extending the Surface accessories range into a competitive and fast-growing space. Premium Surface design continues here, with high-quality construction, leading comfort, and impressive sound.

But when compared to the offerings from Apple, Samsung, and other established names, Microsoft misses the mark with several features, failing to justify the price. Surface Earbuds pack a ton of functionality geared toward productivity, yet Apple AirPods remain the best buy for most.

How Surface Earbuds stack up against AirPods

Surface Earbuds represent Microsoft's first truly wireless in-ear audio endeavor, introducing its latest extension of the flagship PC brand. These premium everyday earbuds provide hassle-free access to music and calls, coupled with a suite of productivity features enabled by Microsoft 365 services.

The arrival of Surface Earbuds marks the latest challenger in the wireless audio space, already dominated by several mobile giants. Apple AirPods have led lineup for several years, acclaimed for their seamless design and ease of use, perceived as the preferred solution for iPhone. While the Android ecosystem's diversity has sprouted many offerings, most still embrace the familiar AirPods-style design.

It's reasonable to draw comparisons between Surface Earbuds and Apple AirPods, both functional across iOS, Android, and Windows 10 PCs, sharing a similar retail price tag. However, with Surface Earbuds and Apple AirPods pursuing vastly different features, which pair is best for you primarily comes down to personal preferences.

Microsoft does a lot right with Surface Earbuds, pushing philosophies present throughout the broader Surface lineup. They sit comfortably in-ear, crucial to its pursuit of all-day listening, with competitive audio quality akin to Apple, Samsung, and established manufacturers. You also snag impressive battery life, with up to eight hours of listening per charge, climbing to 24 hours through the included case.

Surface Earbuds distance themselves from rivals via a distinct disc-style design, serving up easy access to touch gestures. Taps and swipes control playback, adjust volume, and hail your digital assistant, without the need to pull out your phone. Android users can also remotely generate Spotify playlists with a quick triple tap, while iOS users can use Play My Emails to read Outlook emails aloud. And while they take some time to get used to, the gestures generally prove useful at triggering commands, when on the move.

The identity of Surface Earbuds spans entertainment through productivity, but they're undoubtedly geared toward getting things done. The design overlooks commodities now increasingly common across the rivals, attempting to provide unique traits through ties to Microsoft services. That holds little ground for consumers, with Microsoft's talent in the enterprise space reflected on Surface Earbuds instead.

Related: How to use Apple AirPods with Windows PCs

AirPods provide a design better geared to the average consumer, with Apple's proficiency spotlighted once again through its AirPods lineup. The king in mobile hardware for over a decade, coupled with a storied past in entertainment, Apple was the first to nail the truly wireless design. That started with the original AirPods, which still acts as the go-to reference for many alternatives today, succeeded by the more expensive AirPods Pro.

Apple AirPods keep wireless audio simple, with streamlined pairing and playback on iOS devices, and even highly-functional on Android and Windows 10 PCs. The all-white silhouette is a common sight, housing two beamforming microphones, optical sensors, and accelerometers. You also get double-tap gestures on either ear, assignable to playback controls, or Siri. While less functional than Surface Earbuds' touchpads, they're less awkward to trigger.

iOS devices like iPhones and iPads are where the AirPods shine. The smooth setup through moment-to-moment interaction is a treat, partially enabled by its proprietary W1/H1 chip for faster connections and longer battery life. Apple also delivers the quality of life adjustments like in-ear detection, automatically controlling connectivity and playback when in and out of your ear, simply overlooked with Surface Earbuds. They're small bonuses individually, but quickly position the AirPods as a product that feels consistently great to use.

Microsoft Surface Earbuds marketing also boasts unique ties to Microsoft 365, hooking into the broader office suite with deeper integration. For example, link these up to a Windows 10 PC for PowerPoint slide control with gestures, while transcribing your voice in real-time. You can also translate your speech into another language as on-screen captions, through Microsoft services. But these features aren't unique, available to any headphones when using Office, including AirPods.

The Microsoft Surface Earbuds are a robust set of wireless earbuds, especially for the productivity-minded user. Their outstanding comfort will suit most buyers, with its three earbud tip sizes helping fine-tune the fit to your personal preferences. Opting for Microsoft's latest also has technical strengths, whether improved microphone quality, longer continuous battery life, or the IPX4 water resistance — which Apple reserves for its AirPods Pro. But for most, those strengths struggle to outweigh the success of AirPods, especially at that premium.

For iPhone, iPad, Mac, and other compatible Apple devices, the AirPods line undoubtedly offers the best wireless audio experience. While Microsoft Surface Earbuds secure more credence on Android phones or Windows 10 PCs over iOS, consider your priorities, and which better suits you.

Check out more tips on getting the most out of your headphones and earbuds.

• Windows
  • Headphones Team Windows Central uses every day
  • The least you should spend on earbuds
  • Your next headphones need these features
  • The way we use earbuds is evolving
  • Surface Headphones vs. Earbuds
  • Are AirPods good on Windows?
  • Pair AirPods on Windows
  • Surface Earbuds vs. AirPods
  • Surface Earbuds vs. Galaxy Buds Plus
  • Are Pixel Buds good on Windows?
  • Bluetooth vs. wired headphones
  • Best headphones for Skype
  • Best headphones for Zoom
  • The best headset for students
• Gaming
  • How to find the right PC gaming headset
• Android
  • Surface Earbuds and Android
  • Are AirPods good for Android?
  • What Android users should know about EQ
  • 10 underrated features you need in your next pair of headphones
  • Why some Bluetooth headphones sound better than others
  • Team AC's favorite headphones & earbuds
  • Earbuds are changing how we consume audio
  • Spatial audio and Android is here
  • How little can you spend on earbuds and still enjoy listening?
• Apple
  • Best cheap AirPod knockoffs
  • Are Surface Earbuds good for Apple users?
  • Are Pixel Buds good for Apple users?
  • What iPhone users should know about EQ
  • Apple Watch and hearing damage
  • Best EQ apps for iOS
  • Spatial Audio and AirPods Pro

Do iPhones and iPads support Microsoft Surface Earbuds?

Surface Earbuds bring a new truly wireless in-ear accessory to Microsoft in-house hardware, promising everyday cable-free listening for mobile and PC. Connected over Bluetooth, an open wireless standard, both iPhones and iPads pair and play over the earbuds.

All core Microsoft Surface Earbuds features translate when used via an iPhone or iPad, including audio from calls and entertainment. Their integrated touch panel also serves natural gestures for fingertip control over playback. Tapping jumps between pause and play, swiping up and down tweaks volume, and horizontal moves skip tracks. Gestures are expected to function on iPhone and iPad devices. Microsoft has also promised support for various assistants, including native compatibility with Apple's own Siri voice companion.

However, Microsoft's Android investments have scaled in recent years alongside Windows 10, recently shipping deep cross-platform integration, even launching the Android-powered Surface Duo in 2020. Microsoft Surface Earbuds continue this trend, with various compatibility differences, due to limitations of the iOS operating system.

Surface Earbuds also ride on voice and touch experiences tied to Microsoft's pool of services. Microsoft Office integration promises capabilities to navigate Outlook emails, control PowerPoints while transcribing speech, and provide other productivity enhancements. The earbuds will also pack real-time translation for over 60 languages. Surface Earbuds even support "Play My Emails" in the Outlook mobile app, reading emails aloud from your phone, and currently exclusive to iOS.

Where Surface Earbuds fall short with iOS

Microsoft has already set expectations, outlining Android-exclusive features, including direct Spotify integration. It enables a simple triple-tap to launch Spotify from your locked mobile, using machine learning to select songs from your library.

Microsoft promises a fast-pair system, too, cutting out formal processes with a sleek setup. The system ties into Windows 10 PCs and will also leverage Google's Fast Pair standard if running Android 7 Nougat or higher. Apple's closed strategy for iOS prevents a seamless solution unless using its H1 chip found in AirPods.

With Microsoft Surface Earbuds set to launch on May 12, we'll understand the final scope of features on iPhone and iPad. As we learn more about the earbuds' relationship with Apple, we'll update this breakdown.

Should you buy Surface Earbuds for iPhone and iPad?

When looking to buy wireless earbuds, Microsoft's latest endeavor pitches a distinct premise, especially for those deeply rooted in its productivity services. The premium identity of Surface transpires here, backed by gestures and cloud features. For everyday work and play, the Microsoft Surface Earbuds meet your needs and beyond.

When used with iPhones and iPads, you'll be getting the lesser experience, but only by the smallest of margins. Android and Windows 10 draw the best, with one of such devices recommended in your life for deeper integration.

For those without Android or Windows 10, Apple AirPods may better fit the bill. Tight control over iOS has cemented AirPods as the best overall iPhone and iPad experience, with streamlined features and seamless pairing via Apple's H1 headphone chip. Despite their mid-range quality, they're ideal for convenient, portable audio — and a fair amount cheaper.

Like Microsoft Surface Earbuds, Apple AirPods feature two truly wireless buds and an accompanying charging carry case. You'll also secure up to 24 hours of playback, basic touch controls, and Siri support.

Do Surface Earbuds work on Android?

Microsoft's Surface Earbuds not only work with the new Surface hardware, as well as other Windows-powered devices but also Android smartphones and tablets. All you need is to be running Android 4.4 or later (smartphones and tablets released within the last few years will do so) and at least Bluetooth 4.1.

Microsoft supporting Android makes sense since not only is Android the most popular mobile OS, but the company is also looking to release a new portable device running Google's OS. You'll need to be running at least version 4.4 (most smartphones and tablets released in the past few years do so).

Using Surface Earbuds on Android will let you control media playback, fire up Spotify, and more.

Why you would want these strange earbuds

Surface Earbuds are positioned as a hassle-free way of accomplishing simple tasks on PC and mobile. You'll be able to use these smart devices for consuming media, communicating with others, and even improve overall productivity. Sporting an all-day battery life, gesture control support, and comfy ergonomics, Microsoft promises a unique experience with these new buds.

The rather strange, yet distinct cyclical design allows for capacitive touch gestures, eliminating the requirement to pick up and unlock your device. You'll be able to play, pause, skip tracks, and adjust volume with a command to open Spotify on Android. The earbuds also promise AI-enhanced features, including real-time voice transcription for Office, email management, and translation for over 60 languages.

Should you buy Surface Earbuds with Android?

Microsoft has made a compelling choice to consider when shopping around for wireless earbuds. If you happen to be rooted deep in Microsoft's ecosystem — not just on Windows, but Android or iOS too — then Surface Earbuds make more sense. Using the Surface Earbuds with Android hardware allows you to quickly perform actions without reaching for the screen.

Check out more tips on getting the most out of your headphones and earbuds.

• Windows
  • Headphones Team Windows Central uses every day
  • The least you should spend on earbuds
  • Your next headphones need these features
  • The way we use earbuds is evolving
  • Surface Headphones vs. Earbuds
  • Are AirPods good on Windows?
  • Pair AirPods on Windows
  • Surface Earbuds vs. AirPods
  • Surface Earbuds vs. Galaxy Buds Plus
  • Are Pixel Buds good on Windows?
  • Bluetooth vs. wired headphones
  • Best headphones for Skype
  • Best headphones for Zoom
  • The best headset for students
• Gaming
  • How to find the right PC gaming headset
• Android
  • Surface Earbuds and Android
  • Are AirPods good for Android?
  • What Android users should know about EQ
  • 10 underrated features you need in your next pair of headphones
  • Why some Bluetooth headphones sound better than others
  • Team AC's favorite headphones & earbuds
  • Earbuds are changing how we consume audio
  • Spatial audio and Android is here
  • How little can you spend on earbuds and still enjoy listening?
• Apple
  • Best cheap AirPod knockoffs
  • Are Surface Earbuds good for Apple users?
  • Are Pixel Buds good for Apple users?
  • What iPhone users should know about EQ
  • Apple Watch and hearing damage
  • Best EQ apps for iOS
  • Spatial Audio and AirPods Pro

What you need to know

• Panos Panay shared an image of himself using a Surface Duo.
• The image also shows Panay wearing grey Surface Earbuds.
• The Surface Duo doesn't have a public release date but is often shown off by Microsoft employees.

Microsoft and Windows hardware chief Panos Panay shared yet another shot of himself using a Surface Duo. This time, he's shown off lounging with the Surface Duo unfolded and rocking some dark grey Surface Earbuds.

We don't have an official release date for the Surface Duo, but it seems like a weekly occurrence that a Microsoft employee shares a photo with one. Photos of the Surface Duo also frequently include other Microsoft hardware, in this case the Surface Earbuds in grey. We already knew that the Surface Earbuds would come in a darker color, but this shot shows them off a bit.

The Surface Duo Panay is holding appears to have a bumper case on it as well, adding a bit more protection to the folding device without appearing to add much size.

Surface Earbuds represent Microsoft's first truly-wireless in-ear audio endeavor, delivering a highly capable expansion in the flagship PC lineup. They're primed for premium everyday listening, whether calls or entertainment, coupled with a productivity focus through Microsoft Office integration and real-time translation.

The circular design also boasts two integrated touchpads, allowing for easy-access gesture control. It puts core playback features, like play, pause, skip, and volume within a finger's reach, while also hooking directly into digital assistants and Spotify music. But getting your head around Surface Earbud gesture control can be confusing, especially when just getting started.

Here's your ultimate guide to Surface Earbud gesture controls — including what you can do, and how to use them.

Surface Earbuds gestures explained — and how to use them

Microsoft Surface Earbuds touch gestures function across iOS, Android, and Windows 10 devices when connected over Bluetooth. Gestures execute a limited set of core functions, utilized through taps and swipes, and eliminating the need to reach for your phone or PC.

The gestures mandate tapping and swiping in preconfigured directions, executing a limited set of core functions, without the requirement to interact with your mobile device or PC. For example, gestures enable easy control over music and calls, or interactions with select aspects of the Office suite.

Most Surface Earbuds gestures apply all aspects of playback, allowing for media control like play, pause, skip, and volume. Access to your device's native digital assistant is also supported, whether Cortana, Google Assistant, Siri, Alexa, or more. Android users also receive direct Spotify integration, leveraging machine learning to create dynamic playlists.

While the gestures are relatively straightforward, some swipe motions are limited to just one ear. Volume and skip use different swipes in different directions, but current hardware limitations mean they're split across the left and right ears.

These are the Surface Earbuds actions, their required gestures, and a handy visual aid follow.

Surface Earbuds Outlook 'Play My Emails' gestures

Microsoft recently released its Play My Emails features for Outlook on iOS, leveraging Cortana natural language and AI to read your inbox aloud. The feature enables multitasking while listening to incoming messages, via a brief overview using advanced text-to-speech. The new Surface Earbuds boast that Office integration, including hands-free access to your Outlook inbox on iOS devices — with Android support on the horizon.

Play My Emails messages act similarly to regular music playback, with play, pause, skip, and volume functions over touch gestures.

Surface Earbuds put a majority of everyday tasks just a swipe or tap away, ideal for entertainment and productivity when on the move. The above gestures all work out of the box, and function across all officially supported devices.

Microsoft's $200 Surface Earbuds carve out a unique space in today's increasingly saturated "buds" market. Whether everyone needs them is not a question, as the answer is no. But after spending the last two weeks with Surface Earbuds, I am hard-pressed to want anything else either.

What unique features make Surface Earbuds stand out, what do I think can be better, and should you get them? All of these shall be answered and more in my deep-dive review.

Bold, different, but functional

Surface Earbuds design, specs and features

Microsoft took a distinctive approach to the design of Surface Earbuds, yet we saw hints of what they would look like as early as 2015 in its "Productivity Future Vision" video. With a white, glass-like rounded exterior that sits outside the ear users can have a literal surface to swipe and tap gestures on without complications.

Nothing looks like Surface Earbuds, which is good and bad, depending on how you feel about them. But in a world that went from laughing at Apple's bold AirPods design to acceptance and even normality, I don't see Surface Earbuds as that unusual. I prefer the look over Surface Earbuds as I will never be convinced that AirPods look better.

Besides the pragmatics of having a gesture-enabled surface that can be easily discerned without looking, the Earbuds also have a low profile. When someone is looking at you straight on, like in a conference call, you can barely notice them as they do not jut out from your head — they are nearly invisible. Where Surface Earbuds become evident is when viewed as a profile/side shot. The semi-glossy white orbs are then difficult to miss, something that could be lessened if Microsoft ever offers a darker grey version.

There is a lot of detail in Surface Earbuds. While the exterior looks and feels like glass, it is a polycarbonate (plastic). That's good as no one wants a shattered earbud were it to fall on the sidewalk. Additionally, glass would weigh down the earbuds, which are already 7.2 grams each. That weight is slightly heavier than Samsung's Galaxy Buds (5.7g) and Google's Pixel Buds (5.3 g). But Microsoft also didn't want the earbuds to "squeak" when dragging your finger across it for a gesture, so it used material to be completely silent.

The 13.5mm drive per bud is also slightly larger with Surface versus Pixel Buds (12mm). For codec support, you get SBC and aptX, but there is no AAC.

In the box, you get the rather large Surface Earbuds case, Type-A to Type-C charging cable for the case, and two sets of fitted earbuds (small and large in addition to the mediums). It's a pleasant packaging experience, too, with a printed "Everyone's ear is as unique as their fingerprint" declarative on the inner box.

That carrying case is divisive. It is the largest out of all the popular earbud options on the market. It does, however, still fit in the coin pocket of my stretch jeans, but I'm not sure it'd be great to carry them there. This is where Apple and Google's case design is much preferred. The lid of the case has a small spring to let it snap open, but it is also a surprisingly thin lid. It does stay closed with a satisfying snap when closing, but it all feels a bit hollow.

On the bottom of the case is a Bluetooth pairing button, in the rear, a Type-C charging port. Inside, there is a white LED that pulses when charging or stays on when paired.

Conspicuously missing from the Surface Earbuds rather large case is any wireless charging. That's a bizarre oversight considering its girth and price.

Perfected all-day wear

Surface Earbuds comfort and feel

Surface Earbuds are extraordinarily comfortable. Microsoft envisions users wearing these eight hours a day (to match that eight-hour battery life), but for that to be possible, you cannot experience "ear fatigue."

Microsoft did an incredible job on the design. The earbuds twist into your ear with ease and just stay there with no active pressure points. I was able to wear the earbuds for four hours straight and not even come close to being bothered.

Seeing as there is no active or passive noise cancellation, these earbuds do not touch your ear canal at all. I prefer that design as it allows you to hear someone talking to you, or a car coming up from behind. It also means your ear canal won't get sore from hours of having something jammed into it.

Likewise, these earbuds to not rattle, shake, or even fall out. They really lock into your ears. You can run with them and do light exercise with no problems (they are IPX4 rated too). You can also lay down on a pillow with your head on the side while listening to a podcast or music or watching a movie with no discomfort.

Removing the earbuds from the case is also tricky. Due to how they lay flush, you must dig into prying them out. Same with placing them back in as the orientation needs to be correct.

Let's talk software

Surface Earbuds paring and Surface Audio app

Surface Earbuds, because they work on iOS, Android, and Windows 10, relies on standard Bluetooth. While Swift Pair (Windows) and Fast Pair (Android) help the process with a pop-up notification that "seamlessly" assists in the pairing process, the Surface Earbuds are not immune to the fussiness of Bluetooth even in 2020.

This finicky Bluetooth behavior is also complicated by the new Surface Audio app, which is excellent. But in all headphones with an assistive app, pairing becomes this weird dance between hitting the pairing notification, using Bluetooth settings on your phone, and letting the app try to make it all happen. Surface Earbuds are no different.

The Surface Audio apps, which are available on iOS, Android, and Windows 10, let you control the equalizer with presets, or customize and save your own. You can also see volume level, battery life (per earbud), disable touch controls, choose language support, watch tutorial videos, and download firmware updates.

For some reason, however, you can't see the battery life of the carrying case. By comparison, the case for my Bose SoundSport Frees has a simple five-point LED to assist in such matters.

On Android, there is also a persistent notification to help keep the connection alive to Surface Earbuds, which is annoying (I already have one for Spotify, my Tesla, and Microsoft's Your Phone). There doesn't seem to be any downside, however, were to you turn it off.

Surface Earbuds can be paired up to seven devices, but there can only be one active connection at a time. That functionality is in contrast to the Surface Headphones, which can handle eight pairings and two active connections. But the excuse is reasonable: One of the pairings is actually between the left and right earbuds, which communicate wirelessly to operate. And because that counts as an active pairing, there an only be one more connection to your PC or phone allowed at a time.

This active pairing limitation is very frustrating as it prevents users from jumping between smartphone usage and PC video conferences effortlessly. Instead, users must force disconnect (turn off Bluetooth) on one device, connect to the other, and hope it all works. Sometimes it does, sometimes it doesn't. While annoying, this is just how Bluetooth operates, and I am not sure how Microsoft can solve it, but I wish it could.

Even when connected to the PC, there are still Bluetooth quirks. Under Skype, there are two Surface Earbud options under the audio settings page, one for Surface Earbuds with hands-free AG audio, and another for Surface Earbuds stereo. Why? I don't know, but only one of them works with Skype (AG audio), and the other is what you want for music. And Windows itself is still not very friendly to streamlining audio selections, which can be a labyrinth of options.

On the plus side, you can use just one earbud at a time with the other in the case. There is also no lag when using earbuds to watch movies or live TV — lips and sound matches perfectly.

Surface Earbuds support whatever voice assistant is on your phone, but no voice assistant is built-in. On Android, this means you can use Google Assistant, Bixby, or Alexa with a simple long press on either bud. For the iPhone, you can only use Apple's Siri as there is no way to assign them to Google Assistant.

Swipe left

Surface Earbuds gestures and control

Gestures with Surface Earbuds is another adventure. For the most part, the gestures work and work quite well. But there is a breaking-in period in which you must get used to them to figure what works.

Some gestures work on both earbuds (double tap, touch, and hold), while others are left-only (swipe forward, back for audio tracks, PowerPoint), or right-only (swipe up/down for volume). It is not bad, but it is all a bit different if you are coming from Surface Headphones. It would seem a better option to have all the gestures available on either earbud, but Microsoft likely omitted this to prevent mistakes in gesture actions. There is also no way to customize those gestures with the app.

Even how you perform the gestures takes some practice since you are never looking at yourself while executing them.

To further confuse things, on Android, you can triple-tap to open Spotify, which then auto-starts playing algorithmically picked songs for you. Another triple-tap during Spotify playback puts a kibosh on that song and goes to the next algorithmically picked one. It's a neat feature, but due to Apple's limits, a triple tap doesn't do anything on iOS. Luckily, swiping between tracks in Spotify works for iOS, Android, and Windows.

Reversing things, on iOS, you can use the Play My Emails feature in Outlook to hear your emails and respond to them. But you can't do that on Android…yet (it's coming in the next few months).

But once you get used to the gestures on Surface Earbuds, it is quite satisfying. Being able to change tracks, pause, and control the volume of your music or a phone call while never touching your phone is liberating.

One strange omission is the inability to auto-pause when the earbuds are removed from your ears. This feature is becoming increasingly common, and while Surface Headphones can auto-pause when placed around your neck, no such function is found with Surface Earbuds.

Sounds good

Surface Earbuds audio quality and battery

Microsoft has a knack for doing an impressive amount in sound with little hardware. You don't need to look further than its long history in the Surface PC lineup to see it knows how to get a lot of audio out of a small speaker.

This audio talent translates well to Surface Earbuds. Are they the best out there? I don't know; there's a lot of subjectivity in that claim. And seeing as these headphones don't go into the ear canal, volume and bass will not be as intense as some other options. What I can tell you is I think they sound great.

A few of us at Windows Central now own the Surface Earbuds, and the consensus is the audio quality is competitive against Apple, Samsung, and Google — they are up there with the best. But due to the differing design, the sound profile here is distinct.

Audio is crisp and vibrant but not overwhelming, falling in a very middle range. Users have access to a five-band equalizer in the app, which lets you fine-tune the sound profile to your liking. I recommend boosting the lows a bit higher if you prefer a more bass-heavy experience.

As already mentioned, there is absolutely no noise-canceling ability here. Microsoft would gladly point you to Surface Headphones 2 for that feature, but Surface Earbuds have a different goal. Microsoft sees these as being used all-day in the office, or at home where background noise is not an issue. Could you use these on a plane or a subway? Sure, but it won't be any different than using Apple AirPods.

The microphones are also particularly good. It's not clear Microsoft is excelling here compared to the competition, but they are not lagging either. Even when I used them on our podcast, the audience's consensus was that their quality was excellent and better than expected.

For battery, Microsoft promises eight hours of usage per charge, with two more recharges in the case for 24 hours. For streaming music, and just leaving them in, I would push that number closer to seven hours, and maybe only five if using them for calls the entire time. But they are incredibly good for battery life.

Dropping them in the case for ten minutes gains you an extra hour of usage.

On a peculiar note, the right headphone tends to have a lower battery percent reading than the left. This behavior is likely due to the right being the "master," which does more work for audio broadcasting.

The bottom line

Surface Earbuds amazingly comfortable, but tough competition

Like Surface Headphones, Microsoft has proven it can create impressive and competitive headphones in an increasingly saturated market. While Surface Earbuds look different with a bold, but functional design, I can say they do distinguish themselves from the crowd.

Where Surface Earbuds take the lead is comfort, battery life, and audio quality. Microsoft intends for these to be worn all day, and that goal is achieved. I'm not sure other headphones can outmatch Surface Earbuds in this regard.

Gestures, while finicky, are also a unique selling point. Being truly hands-free from your phone is fantastic. But that advantage is weakened if you have a smartwatch (notably the Apple Watch), which is just as functional (maybe even more). Being able to use live translation or dictation in Microsoft Office is neat, but very niche (plus any microphone can do the same).

But while audio quality and battery life are excellent, it is the price versus features that make Surface Earbuds a tough sell. With no wireless charging for the case, no ability to see how much battery is left in that case, no in-ear detection, all while charging $20 to $60 more than the rest, is difficult to justify. (It is worth noting students can get a 10 percent discount knocking the price down to $180).

Surface Earbuds have a particular target audience, and I'm a part of that, which is why I like them so much. They are outstanding. But I am not convinced that the market is big enough for people to take an interest in Surface Earbuds over the more widely available and cheaper Galaxy Buds, or AirPods.

While Surface Earbuds are excellent, they only shine in a few areas, and I'm not sure many people care about those particular advantages to pay such a premium. If Surface Earbuds were priced at $150-$175, that would level the field. But Microsoft is going to need something else to warrant that $200 asking price, and right now, that killer feature is not here.

What you need to know

• First Surface Earbuds firmware update is available now.
• Improves audio quality, pairing, and overall product stability.
• Can be downloaded using the Surface Audio app.

Microsoft has released a day one firmware update for Surface Earbuds that bring with it improvements to pairing, audio, and overall stability when using the Surface Earbuds. The update was released on May 12, the same day the Surface Earbuds launched, and brings the firmware version number up to 3.0.0.5.

Customers powering on the Surface Earbuds for the first time will immediately see this firmware update available to download. You can install firmware updates using the new Surface Audio app on Windows 10, Android, and iOS. Microsoft says downloading and installing firmware updates can take a while, so make sure your batteries are efficiently charged first.

The full changelog is below:

• Audio quality and stability improvements.
• Pairing and connection improvements.

Surface Earbuds are available now for $199 and are shipping in 24 markets across the globe. Will you be picking up a pair? Let us know in the comments.

What you need to know

• Microsoft's Surface Go 2, Surface Earbuds and Surface Headphones 2 are available for purchase.
• Microsoft's website lists several configuration options for the Surface Go 2, including the Intel Core m3 variant.
• Microsoft's other pieces of Surface hardware should be available later this month.

Microsoft's Surface Go 2, Surface Headphones 2, and Surface Earbuds are available starting today. Microsoft recently announced several additions to its Surface family of devices, and a few of them are available now. The Surface Go 2 starts at $400, the Surface Earbuds cost $200 and the Surface Headphones 2 are available for $250.

The Surface Go 2 has a 10.5-inch display, up from the original Surface Go's screen size. While the screen is larger, the body of the Surface Go 2 is the same size as the original. Microsoft did this by reducing the size of the convertible PC's bezels. The Surface Go 2 is available with either an Intel Pentium Gold processor or a more powerful Intel Core m3 processor. Our initial benchmarks show that the Core m3 version does very well when compared to the Pentium Gold variant. The Pentium Gold, Core m3, and Core m3 with Wi-Fi or LTE are listed on Microsoft's website. Best Buy lists the Pentium Gold and Core m3 Wi-Fi variants.

The Surface Earbuds are a new member of the Surface family. They have omnisonic speakers for high quality audio and support haptic gestures for controlling music and other content. They also integrate with Office 365, including support for dictating documents.

The Surface Headphones 2 also support gestures and work with Office 365. They're similar to the original Surface Headphones but have Bluetooth 5.0 and aptX support. Also, they're more comfortable when worn around the neck because the earcups can now be rotated 180 degrees. The Surface Headphones 2 are available in Light Gray or Matte Black.

What you need to know

• Microsoft's new lineup of Surface hardware is available for preorder on Amazon.
• You can preorder the Surface Go 2, Surface Book 3, Surface Dock 2, and Surface Earbuds now.
• The Surface Headphones 2 have not appeared for preorder on Amazon yet.

Microsoft's Surface Go 2, Surface Book 3, Surface Earbuds, and Surface Dock 2 are all available for preorder on Amazon. Microsoft recently announced its newest additions to the Surface family, and you can preorder them now to get them as early as possible. The Surface Go 2 starts at $400, the Surface Book 3 starts $1,599 and the Surface Earbuds cost $200. You can also preorder the Surface Dock 2 for $260. At the moment, the Surface Headphones 2 are not available for preorder on Amazon but you can preorder them from Microsoft.

The Surface Go 2 has a larger display than the original Surface Go while keeping the same body size and shape. Microsoft accomplished this by making the bezels thinner and expanding the display. The Surface Go 2 is available with either Intel Pentium Gold processors or more powerful Intel Core m3 processors. Our initial benchmarks show that the Core m3 version stacks up very well against the cheaper Pentium Gold version. Though at this time only the Pentium Gold version appears for preorder on Amazon.

The Surface Book 3 keeps the external design and look of the Surface Book 2 but has several internal improvements. The CPU and GPU that you can get inside are more powerful, and there are more GPU options. Though, like the Surface Go 2's listing, only some options appear on Amazon at this time.

The Surface Earbuds are a newcomer to the Surface family. They feature omnisonic speakers for high quality audio and support haptic gestures for navigating playback. They also integrate with Office 365, allowing you to perform tasks such as dictating documents.

The Surface Dock 2 is a refresh of the original Surface Dock. It supports faster transfer speeds than the original dock and includes several USB-C ports. It also can deliver up to 120 watts of power to connected Surface devices, meaning your device won't run out of power while you have it docked.

What you need to know

• The Surface Audio app is now available on Android, iOS, and Windows 10.
• The app is a companion to Surface Headphones 2 and Surface Earbuds, allowing you to manage each.
• Surface Headphones 2 and Surface Earbuds ship on May 12 and are available to preorder now.

Microsoft's new Surface Headphones 2 and Surface Earbuds start shipping to buyers and arriving in stores on May 12, and Microsoft is preparing by launching the new Surface Audio companion app. The app is available now for iOS, Android, and Windows 10, giving Surface Headphones and Earbuds users a quick way to manage the accessories, update them, and more.

The apps ensure you can adjust the settings of your Surface Headphones or Surface Earbuds no matter what you have them paired to. In each, you'll find access to an equalizer, the option to customize device controls, and the ability to change your language. The Surface Audio app is also where you'll initiate firmware updates when they're available.

The main home screen of the app also gives you a quick overview of the status of your Surface Headphones or Surface Earbuds. You can see the battery level, along with how much time you have left before the battery dies. That's in addition to the volume level, along with the noise cancellation level.

Lastly, you can edit the name of your headphones or earbuds, access tutorials, and dive deeper into details about your devices.

Surface Headphones 2 and Surface Earbuds are available to preorder now for $250 and $200, respectively. Both are expected to start shipping on May 12. You can download the Surface Audio app at the App Store, Google Play, and Microsoft Store now.

Thanks, Kris, for the tip!

What you need to know

• Surface Headphones 2 and Surface Earbuds are now up for preorder at Best Buy.
• Best Buy's preorders come a day after they launched on the Microsoft Store.
• Surface Headphones 2 are priced at $250 while Surface Earbuds fetch $200.

Following up on Surface Book 3 and Surface Go 2 going up for preorder at Best Buy, Microsoft's Surface Headphones 2 and Surface Earbuds are also now up for grabs at the big box retailer. Surface Headphones 2 cost $250, while Surface Earbuds are available for $200.

Both Surface Earbuds and Surface Headphones 2 features integrations with Office apps that let you do things like control PowerPoint slides and listen to your latest emails from Outlook on demand. Surface Earbuds feature omnisonic speakers that should deliver high audio quality, and they've been tuned to work well in office environments. The large touch sensors on each bud allow you to quickly change volume, skip tracks, and call up your digital assistant as well.

Surface Headphones 2 largely keep the same design and feel of the original Surface Headphones, but with some notable tweaks. There's a new matte black color option, which joins the gray color found on the original. Microsoft has also added Bluetooth 5.0, aptX support, and the earcups can now be rotated 180 degrees for a more comfortable experience when they're resting around your neck.

Surface Earbuds and Surface Headphones 2 are both expected to start shipping and arrive in stores starting May 12. For now, you can preorder each from both Best Buy and the Microsoft Store.

Microsoft's Surface Go 2, Surface Book 3, and Surface Earbuds are all available for preorder on Best Buy. The latest pieces of Surface hardware were announced yesterday, and you can preorder them now to make sure you get them as soon as possible. At Best Buy, The Surface Go 2 starts at $400, the Surface Book 3 starts $1,599 and the Surface Earbuds cost $200. At the moment, the Surface Headphones 2 and both of Microsoft's new docks are not available for preorder through Best Buy.

The Surface Go 2 features a larger display than the original Surface Go while retaining the same body shape and size. It has improved internals and has options for either Intel Pentium Gold or Intel Core m3 processors. Based on our initial benchmarks, the Core m3 version stacks up very well against the cheaper Pentium Gold version. Though at this time Best Buy does not list the Core m3 version of the Surface Go 2.

The Surface Book 3 has the same body size and shape as the Surface Book 2 and has no external changes. Instead, it has internal improvements and options for a more powerful CPU and GPU. Best Buy doesn't list the cheaper 8GB variant that's available on Microsoft's website. Instead, it starts at the version with 16GB of RAM at $2,300.

The Surface Earbuds are a new member of the Surface family, and feature omnisonic speakers for high audio quality. They support haptic gestures that allow you to control music and other content. They also integrate with Office 365 such as allowing you to dictate to documents.

Microsoft Surface Earbuds with noise cancellation

Surface Earbuds expand Microsoft's flagship hardware line via truly wireless in-ear audio. Positioned with premium sound and accompanying productivity features, they join the existing Microsoft Surface Headphones with added portability for mobile and PC. Boasting "all-day comfort" and up to 24 hours of battery life, Surface Earbuds set out as a daily companion for work and entertainment.

Microsoft Surface Earbuds don't support active noise cancellation, distanced from the isolative capabilities of earlier Surface Headphones. While first unveiled amid low adoption from rivals in the wireless earbud space, its absence falls behind some premium alternatives today. Beyond pure implementation, bringing ANC will compromise battery life and raise the already high price. Microsoft does tout "noise reduction," although only to clear up your speech over the dual-microphone setup.

While ANC doesn't ship with Surface Earbuds, it doesn't mean you're not getting an exceptional audio experience. Our initial time with Surface Earbuds has demonstrated considerable comfort, offering a snug insert-and-twist fit. It helps the Surface Earbuds sit effortlessly in-ear while avoiding full isolation from the outside world.

Surface Earbuds are scheduled for May 12, priced at $199, launching at a reduced price compared to the original $249 unveiling. Microsoft has now kicked off preorders, available exclusively in the "glacier" white colorway.

Best Surface Earbuds alternatives with active noise cancellation

Amid a push to cut down headphone jacks, truly wireless earbuds are on the rise. Convenience comes with cutting the cable, ideal for use on both mobile and PC. Wireless audio can now pack a ton of features into a compact package, making ANC a valuable tool for travelers. If the Surface Earbuds don't cut it, the Sony WF-1000XM3 earbuds are among the leaders today.

The Sony WF-1000XM3 boasts impressive audio with an in-ear design, aided by noise cancellation. They'll cut the background noise and elevate your listening experience, even if falling short of bulky over-ear alternatives. Pair that with a streamlined look, comfort, and features primed for audiophiles – you've got some of the best earbuds to buy.

While among the high-end, the Sony WF-1000XM3 retails only just above the Microsoft Surface Earbuds launch price. You'll miss out on some signature cloud-backed productivity, but gain capable ANC.

Staying within the same hardware family, the Surface Headphones 2 are Microsoft's Surface Earbuds alternative. The weighty over-ear design cuts out the world and keeps you focused, although sacrificing portability in the process. They offer average ANC but stand out with 13 different ambient sound levels, adjustable via a dial on the left ear. That flexibility is especially valuable when phasing in and out activities. Oh, and they now come in black, unlike the Earbuds.

The Surface Headphones 2 don't slack in performance, with first-rate soundscapes and comfort, onboard digital assistant integration, and touch gestures. If it's a style for you, give them a try.

How long does Surface Earbuds battery last?

Microsoft claims the Surface Earbuds deliver up to eight hours of continuous playback on a single charge, providing juice for most lengthy listening sessions. The included charge case bumps this to 24 hours of claimed battery life across an additional two full charges. That's enough to last the day without battery worries or cover the week with intermittent use.

Like most truly wireless earbuds, the Surface Earbuds are designed for storage via the sleek carry case, passively charging the buds. The box charges over USB Type-C, though it lacks any form of wireless charging, as implemented by Apple AirPods, Samsung Galaxy Buds, and other rivals.

Why Surface Earbuds could be for you

Surface Earbuds bring the first truly wireless earbuds to its in-house product line, positioned as a hassle-free accompaniment to mobile and PC. While a suite of productivity features differentiates the earbuds from competitors, Microsoft pitches them as a daily accessory for media consumption, communication, to improving workflow. Backed by "all-day" comfort and battery life, they're shaping up as a new entry in the audio space.

Beyond tangle-free audio playback, Surface Earbuds pack engrained experiences for improved ease of use and focus. The distinct cyclical design serves as a capacitive plain for touch gestures, eliminating the need to use your device for simple interactions. Swipes can play, pause, skip tracks, and adjust volume, with a command to open Spotify on Android. The earbuds also promise AI-enhanced features, including real-time voice transcription for Office, email management, and translation for over 60 languages.

Surface Earbuds are on track to launch May 12, priced at $199, launching at a reduced price to the originally quoted $249 retail. Microsoft has now kicked off preorders, available exclusively in the "glacier" white colorway.

What you need to know

• Panos Panay shared a brief video on Twitter about the new Surface devices.
• Microsoft announced the Surface Book 3, Surface Go 2, and several other Surface devices today.
• Panay highlights that the devices are designed to adapt to people's workflow.

Microsoft's chief product officer, Panos Panay, shared a brief video on Twitter today showing his excitement for the new Surface devices. Microsoft announced two new PCs today, the Surface Book 3 and the Surface Go 2. The company also announced the Surface Headphones 2, Surface Earbuds, and two docks for connecting devices. Panay discussed how the devices adapt to people's workflow.

About halfway through the video, Panay's daughter walks into the room in which he's filming. She joins the video, says hi, and says good-bye alongside Panay ending the video.

Panay often announces Surface devices with a bit more fanfare, but with the current health crisis Microsoft took a different approach to announcing the new Surface devices.

What you need to know

• Microsoft recently posted videos for the Surface Book 3, Surface Go 2, and Surface Earbuds.
• The videos highlight the latest additions of the Surface lineup.
• Microsoft will likely share videos for the rest of the lineup soon.

Microsoft just announced a plethora of Surface hardware, and you can check out three of them in new sizzler videos. The new videos show off the Surface Book 3, Surface Go 2, and Surface Earbuds.

The Surface Go 2 video focuses on mobility. It highlights the device's instant on capabilities, Windows Hello, and versatility. The Surface Go 2 has a larger display than its predecessor, thanks to its thinner bezels, and can attach to a keyboard.

The Surface Earbuds video appears to be similar or identical to the one that Microsoft used when the headphones were originally announced. It shows off the Surface Earbuds support for gestures, charging case, and quick pairing. It also shows off the ability to dictate to Office 365.

The Surface Book 3 video highlights that it's the Surface device with the longest battery life. The video also mentions some of the internal specs, such as its new GPU options and its 10th Gen Intel processor.

Make sure to check out our coverage of the Surface Go 2, Surface Book 3, and Surface Earbuds to get all the details.

What you need to know

• Microsoft's Surface Earbuds are now available for preorder.
• The Surface Earbuds support gestures and integrate with Office 365.
• They will be available from May 12 for $199.

Microsoft's Surface Earbuds are finally available for preorder. The Surface Earbuds were originally announced last October but were delayed until this spring. Now, you can preorder the Surface Earbuds for $199. That price tag is lower than the $249 price tag that once appeared on the Microsoft Store. The Surface Earbuds launch on May 12 in 24 markets.

The Surface Earbuds do not feature noise cancellation, but that choice was made by Microsoft to help people who wear headphones all day. The Surface Earbuds support haptic gestures, such as swiping forward or back to navigate playlists and swiping up or down to adjust playback volume.

The Surface Earbuds have Omnisonic speakers to deliver high-quality audio. Microsoft states that the headphones will get up to 8 hours of battery life on their own and up to 24 hours of battery when combined with their USC-C charging case.

You can connect the Surface Earbuds to Windows 10 with Swift Pair and Android phones with Fast Pair. At launch, the Surface Earbuds will be available in "glacier" white, but darker grey versions should be available at a later date. You can read more about the Surface Earbuds in our post covering their announcement.

It's new Surface hardware day! Microsoft has unveiled several new Surface products that are set to start shipping as soon as next week, and pack numerous improvements to Microsoft's low-end and high-end product lines. Here are all the announcements you need to know about.

Microsoft is announcing five new Surface products ranging from PCs to accessories, and is also releasing the Surface Earbuds that were originally announced back in October 2019. Here's a list of the new products being announced today:

• Surface Book 3
• Surface Go 2
• Surface Headphones 2
• Surface Dock 2
• Surface USB-C Travel Hub

The new Surface Book 3

Microsoft is finally updating its Surface Book product line with faster processors and more powerful GPU options. While the exterior remains the same, the inside has been updated with Intel 10th-Gen processors, up to 32GB RAM, and 2TB storage along with NVIDIA GTX 1650, 1660 Ti, or Quadro 3000 graphics options.

Surface Book 3 is not cheap, starting at $1599 for an Intel Core i5 with no dedicated graphics. We'd recommend skipping this model and jumping up to the Intel Core i7 models that start at $1999. This will get you a dedicated graphics card in the 13.5-inch, along with more storage and power to boot.

Surface Book 3 begins shipping on May 21 in the US and Canada. Check out our breakout post for availability, specifications, and more.

The new Surface Go 2

Alongside the Surface Book 3, Microsoft is updating the Surface Go product line with a larger display and a more powerful model for those who need it. The Surface Go 2 features the same overall design and size, but with a larger 10.5-inch panel with thinner bezels, which makes the product look more modern and less cramped to use.

Surface Go 2 still starts at $399, but users can now opt for a more powerful $629 model with an Intel Core m3 inside. This model provides 64 percent more power over the original Surface Go, making it suitable for most office-related tasks, browsing the web, checking email, and watching movies and listening to music.

Surface Go 2 begins shipping on May 12 in several markets. Check out our breakout post for availability, specifications, and more.

Surface Headphones 2 and Surface Earbuds

The Surface Headphones are also getting an update with a new black color option, increased battery life, and and Bluetooth 5.0 support. The Surface Headphones 2 look identical to the first generation, not including the new color of course. Most notably, these new Surface Headphones are cheaper than the originals, launching at just $250 instead of $349.

Microsoft's Surface Earbuds were originally announced in October 2019 and were supposed to start shipping before 2020 rolled around. However, the product was delayed and is only now beginning to ship. The only change between the Surface Earbuds launching today and the ones that were announced in October is that the price has dropped from $249 to $199, a saving of $50.

Make sure you check out our breakout posts for the Surface Headphones 2 and Surface Earbuds for information on availability, pricing, and more.

Surface Dock 2 and USB-C Travel Hub

Alongside the new Surface PCs comes a new Surface Dock to match. The new model includes USB-C ports in addition to USB-A ports. Interestingly, the new Surface Dock 2 only supports the Surface Book 3, Surface Pro 7, Surface Pro X, Surface Laptop 3, and Surface Go 2. It won't work on previous generation products, according to Microsoft.

Also new is a USB-C travel hub, which carries several ports for those who need them when on the go. These ports include 1x USB-C port, 1x USB-A port, 1x ethernet port, 1x HDMI 2.0 port, 1x VGA port, and 1x 3.5mm headphones jack. It's like a mini Surface Dock and works with more than just Surface products.

Check out our breakout post for these new accessories if you'd like to know more about pricing and availability.

What are you looking forward to?

That's all the notable announcements coming out of Microsoft today. We're expecting a handful of new Surface products to begin shipping in the next few weeks, most of which are modest updates over their predecessors. It's a little disappointing to see Microsoft hasn't changed the design of the Surface Book 3, but it's good to see a larger display and more powerful configurations on the Surface Go 2.

Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

What you need to know

• Surface Earbuds go on sale May 12 in Microsoft's online stores in 24 markets.
• The price has been reduced from $249 to $199
• Earbuds provide up to 8 hours of usage, and 24 hours with the charging case.

After being delayed in November to spring the Microsoft Surface Earbuds are finally coming to market. As expected, the earbuds will be available globally in 24 markets through Microsoft's online store. The price has also dropped from $249 to a more reasonable $199 as a likely response to the competition.

The Microsoft Surface Earbuds are for a specific demographic with some unique differentiators. While there is no noise canceling (active or passive) with Surface Earbuds, that is by design. Microsoft sees these headphones as an accessory for the working professional who an all-day work experience with music, calls, and even presentations in the office.

Microsoft's Surface Earbuds are built from the ground up to deliver excellent sound quality through Omnisonic speakers, unique haptic swipe gestures, dual mic array, and a Type-C charging case that delivers up to 24 hours of playback.

Some of the gestures were already revealed in a recent FCC filing. Those gestures include tap, touch, and swipe. Users can swipe up or down to change the volume. Swipe back or forward to change tracks and double-tap to pause music and make calls.

A new triple-tap on either earbud automatically launches Spotify on Android phones. And on iOS, users can use the new Play My Emails in the Outlook mobile app (US only), a feature that is coming to Android phones soon.

In a surprising move, the Surface Earbuds also integrate with Office 365 with gestures, dictation, and translation features.

Pairing is also effortless with support for Swift Pair in Windows 10 and Fast Pair with Android phones. The feature lets users connect the Surface Earbuds with one tap by merely placing the charging case near a Surface PC or phone.

Microsoft has a lot of competition in this space, especially with Google just launching its well-received Google Pixel Buds 2020, which are $20 cheaper. But those buds also have three-hour less battery life and may not be as comfortable as the new Surface Earbuds.

Surface Earbuds go on sale May 12 in Microsoft's online stores in 24 markets. Although they are launching in "glacier" white initially, the darker gray versions are expected to come at a later date.

What you need to know

• The Surface Earbuds manual appeared online recently.
• The manual goes through support gestures, Office 365 features, and general management of the headphones.
• The Surface Earbuds will reportedly launch on May 6, 2020.

The Surface Earbuds have yet another leak. Relatively recently, the Surface Earbuds manual appeared online on an FCC listing. The manual goes over the gestures you can use with the headphones, the Office 365 features it supports, and general maintenance and setup of the upcoming headphones. While the Surface Earbuds don't have an official release date, they will reportedly launch on May 6, 2020. Microsoft originally planned to release the Surface Earbuds earlier, but delayed their launch to this spring.

The manual includes several photos of the Surface Earbuds and their case. There's a USB-C charging port on the bottom of the case, as well as a pair button. The large touchpads can be used to perform actions like playing and pausing music, activating a digital assistant, and adjusting the volume of the headphones.

Towards the end of the manual, it lists things you can do with the Surface Earbuds with Office 365 and Cortana:

• Manage your Outlook calendar, email, and to-dos with your voice.
• Dictate in Word and other Microsoft Office apps.
• Advance slides and get live captions or subtitles in PowerPoint.
• Get digital assistance from Cortana—set reminders, get answers to questions, and more.

The information in the manual isn't new or that surprising, but it's interesting to see the manual of a device before the device is released.

The Surface Earbuds have Omnisonic speakers and support unique haptic feedback swipe gestures. They have a dual-mic array for voice controls and making calls. In our time with the Surface Earbuds last October, we found them comfortable to wear and were impressed by the sound quality.

What you need to know

• The Surface Earbuds will launch on May 6, 2020 according to a new report.
• The Surface Earbuds work with Office 365 and support gestures for navigating music and other content.
• Microsoft's website already lists the Surface Earbuds for $250, though no release date is listed at this time.

Microsoft's Surface Earbuds will come out on May 6, 2020, according to a new report from WinFuture. The German site points to the European retail sector as a source for the Surface Earbud's release date. WinFuture reports that the new earbuds from Microsoft will launch in many European contries on May 6, 2020.

Microsoft first revealed the Surface Earbuds at its October hardware event last year, but Microsoft's Chief Product Officer, Panos Panay, announced that the earbuds would be delayed until spring 2020.

WinFuture also reports that the Surface Earbuds will launch at €199. This lines up fairly well with the U.S. pricing of $250 that's on the Microsoft Store. Prices outside the U.S. aren't always exact conversions of U.S. prices. There's also a chance that the U.S. pricing could change from what's currently listed.

While the May 6 release date isn't confirmed officially, it lines up well with the current timeline we've heard for Surface hardware. The Surface Earbuds recently passed through the FCC and Microsoft's Brad Anderson showed off a pair recently on Twitter, so it seems likely that their release is around the corner.

The Surface Earbuds combine the functionality of everyday earbuds with productivity features. They work with Microsoft Office and Microsoft Teams, and support features like voice dictation and translation. They have Omnisonic speakers, haptic swipe gesture support, and a dual-mic array to pick up audio. Combined with their case that charges with USB-C, the Surface Earbuds get 24 hours of playback.

What you need to know

• The Surface Earbuds appear in a recent FCC filing.
• The Surface Earbuds could launch this Spring.
• Other Surface devices also appeared in FCC filings recently.

A recent FCC filing for the Surface Earbuds could indicate that the headphones are close to launching (via Windows Latest). The filing shows off the Surface Earbuds from several different angles alongside a tape measure. It was originally submitted on January 22, 2020, and became available on March 30, 2020.

We've already seen the Surface Earbuds up close and have followed their delay to this Spring, so the filing doesn't show new information. Though, the tape measure does make it easy to see how big they are, which is roughly 25mm x 25mm x 20 mm. The filing is interesting because it lines up with other FCC filings for Surface devices. These filings being spotted and appearing could indicate that the devices are just around the corner.

The Surface Earbuds are built to deliver high-quality sound through Omnisonic speakers. They have haptic feedback, swipe gestures, a dual-microphone array, and a USB-C charging case. When used with the charging case, the Surface Earbuds can get up to 24 hours of battery life, according to Microsoft. The Surface Earbuds also integrate with Office 365, including support for gestures, dictation, and translation features.

What you need to know

• Microsoft's Brad Anderson shared another photo of himself using the Surface Duo recently.
• Anderson also shared an image of himself and his family using the Surface Duo earlier this week.
• Another post from Anderson shows him wearing the Surface Earbuds.

Microsoft's corporate vice president Brad Anderson continues to tease images with himself and the Surface Duo. This time, he shared a shot of himself using the Surface Duo on his deck while lounging in a chair. In the image, he's holding the Duo open like a book. Anderson has shared several images of himself using upcoming Surface hardware, including an adorable shot of his kids using the Surface Duo with him in his office.

It appears that Microsoft is increasing the public use of the Surface Duo. Microsoft's Windows and hardware chief, Panos Panay, recently shared an image taken by the Surface Duo. While it's safe to assume Panay, Anderson, and some other Microsoft employees used the Surface Duo before sharing these images, they're now sharing images of the device in use publicly.

Anderson also shared an image with himself wearing the Surface Earbuds a couple of weeks ago.

While the Surface Duo was initially slated for a holiday 2020 launch, our senior editor Zac Bowden reports that Microsoft wants to move the launch of the Duo up. People using the products publicly is not a guarantee of an early release date, but the Surface Duo could very well arrive sooner than the end of 2020.

What you need to know

• Microsoft's Surface Earbuds won't ship now until spring 2020.
• Two color options will be available.
• Surface Earbuds are expected to now launch in more markets.

Microsoft's October hardware event brought many new devices to market, but it was Surface Earbuds that had an IOU for release. While the original plan was to have at least the white version of the $250 headphones shipping by holiday season with the gray model coming later, those dates have now shifted.

In a tweet from Surface hardware chief Panos Panay, the release for Surface Earbuds have moved to spring 2020 due to some software tweaks and presumably some manufacturing delays. No specific date in spring has been announced with details coming later.

If there is any good news about this delay is that both the white and gray versions should be available at the same time versus a staggered release. Likewise, Microsoft says that because of the delay, Surface Earbuds can launch simultaneously in more markets than initially planned.

Still, with Microsoft missing the crucial "holiday season," especially in North American and European markets, it's hard not to see this as a missed opportunity. Apple has been able to get its new AirPods Pro to stores in just days after its announcement. On the other hand, Google's new $180 Pixel Buds 2 – announced in October – also won't be coming to market until spring 2020 either.

Microsoft's Surface Earbuds are built from the ground up to deliver excellent sound quality through Omnisonic speakers, unique haptic swipe gestures, dual mic array, and a Type-C charging case that delivers up to 24 hours of playback. In a surprising move, the Surface Earbuds also integrate with Office 365 with gestures, dictation, and translation features.

During our brief sampling period at Microsoft's October event, the Surface Earbuds were very comfortable to wear, and the sound quality was quite impressive. Unfortunately, we'll have to wait a bit longer to try them out in the real world.

Yesterday, Google announced its second generation Pixel Buds that will compete with the likes of Apple's AirPods, Samsung's Galaxy Buds, and Microsoft's upcoming Surface Earbuds. Both the Pixel Buds and Surface Earbuds will be launching in close proximity of each other, and we want to know which pair you're considering if you're in the market for a new set of wireless earbuds.

The Surface Earbuds are $249, but the Pixel Buds come in at a much more affordable $179. Microsoft's earbuds are definitely the most expensive on the market, but is that cost justified?

Microsoft says the Surface Earbuds feature unique productivity features such as Office 365 integration and better touch controls on the buds themselves for controlling music and volume without touching your phone. They also work with any virtual assistant, including Cortana, Google Assistant, and Alexa.

The Pixel Buds feature Google Assistant integration, and a design that's far slimmer than the Surface Earbuds. The Pixel Buds fit comfortably in your ear, and are so small you can't really see them if you're looking at someone head on. The Surface Earbuds feature a much bulkier design, to accomodate the huge touchpad that allows for the advanced touch controls not found on other earbuds.

So, which one are you interested in buying? Anser the poll and let us know.

At the big Microsoft Surface event today, Redmond revealed its long-rumored Surface Earbuds, complete with some nifty productivity features. Similar to the Bluetooth headsets of old, the Surface Earbuds are an ideal hands-free kit, complete with dictation, Office 365 connectivity features, and gesture controls. However, some have already been raising eyebrows over how they look.

When you're wearing something, visuals tend to become more important to people. Apple's AirPods have been the target of various memes and jokes since they were revealed, but have since become pretty common to see in public.

The success of the Surface Earbuds will probably depend on their quality and functionality, just like any product. But if we're going off looks alone, how do you feel about them? Vote in our poll, let us know.

Related: Everything Microsoft announced at the Oct 2 Surface Event

Note: You may need to disable adblockers to see the poll!

What you need to know

• Microsoft's new Surface Earbuds support gestures and securely fit into your ears.
• The new headphones are shown off in a video by Microsoft.
• The Surface Earbuds also integrate with Office, including translating PowerPoint presentations.

Lost among the announcements of folding phones, a new version of Windows 10, and a Surface device powered by ARM are the Surface Earbuds. The new headphones from Microsoft support one-click pairing, can be navigated with gestures, and are designed to fit securely in people's ears.

The Surface Earbuds have dual-array microphones and come in a charging case. The new video also shows off how the Surface Earphones integrate with Microsoft Office, including translating PowerPoint presentations.

Here's everything Microsoft announced at its Surface 2019 event

What you need to know

• Microsoft announced the new Surface Earbuds at the October Surface event, costing $249.
• The new earbuds support gestures and a variety of Microsoft-focused features.
• The new Earbuds will work with the newly announced Microsoft Surface hardware.

Microsoft announced new earbuds to go up against Apple's AirPods. This new accessory offers up to 24 hours of battery life and should not only work with Microsoft's latest Surface hardware but other devices too. The main highlight of the new Surface Earbuds is the design and gesture support.

Each Earbud has a flat surface to allow for full gesture control, letting you manipulate media playback, volume, and even supported apps like Microsoft Office. You'll be able to translate content and much more. These new Surface Earbuds will come out later in October for $249.

Everything Microsoft announced at its October 2019 Surface event