Technics Technics EAH-AZ100 Reference-Class True Wireless Review

With sound and ANC both in the 98th percentile, the Technics AZ100 earbuds are an audiophile's dream in a wireless package. Just be ready for battery life that's only in the 12th percentile and a $298 price tag. They're elite performers with very specific trade-offs.

The Technics EAH-AZ100 earbuds land in the 98th percentile for both sound quality and active noise cancellation. That's not a typo. For $298, you're getting a pair of true wireless earbuds that compete with the absolute best in audio fidelity and quiet. They're also in the 97th percentile for connectivity, thanks to a 3-point multipoint system that juggles devices better than almost anything else. The catch? Battery life sits at the 12th percentile. You get 10 hours with ANC on, which is fine, but it's a clear step behind the class leaders.

Let's talk about that 98th percentile sound. It's driven by planar magnetic drivers with magnetic fluid, a combo that delivers incredibly low distortion and a wide, detailed soundstage. When you add Dolby Atmos with head tracking, you get a spatial audio experience that genuinely feels immersive, especially for movies. The ANC is just as impressive, landing in the same elite tier. It's adaptive, meaning it adjusts to your environment automatically, and it's incredibly effective at shutting out the world. The 3-point multipoint connectivity is a standout feature, letting you connect to three devices at once and manually prioritize which one gets the audio. It's a power user's dream.

At $298, the AZ100s are expensive, no two ways about it. You're paying a premium for that elite-tier sound and ANC. The value proposition is simple: if audio quality and noise cancellation are your absolute top priorities, and you're willing to trade some battery life and mic performance for it, then the price is justified. If you just need good all-rounders, there are cheaper options that offer a more balanced package.

Stacked up against the competition, the AZ100s have a clear audio advantage over the Anker Soundcore P31i and the JBL Tune Flex. Their real fight is with the Sony WF-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort Earbuds. The Sonys might edge them out slightly in ANC and have better battery life, but the Technics counter with superior multipoint connectivity (3 devices vs. 2) and, for many listeners, a more refined, detailed sound signature thanks to those planar magnetic drivers. The Bose are comfort kings, but the Technics offer more advanced features like head tracking. It's a tight race at the top.

Skip these if battery life is a deal-breaker. A 12th percentile score means you'll be charging them more often than most high-end earbuds. Also, if you take a lot of important voice or video calls, the 43rd percentile mic might not meet your needs. Budget-conscious buyers should look elsewhere too, as the $298 price is a steep ask for a package with these specific compromises.

The Technics EAH-AZ100 are a data-backed powerhouse for pure audio enthusiasts. The 98th percentile scores for sound and ANC are legit. We recommend them if your main goals are critical listening and maximum noise cancellation, and you can live with the average battery life and mic. If you need all-day battery or make a lot of calls on the go, look at the Sony XM5 or even the Nothing Ear (a) for a more balanced, budget-friendly profile.