After teasing them at CES 2025, LG has finally launched its new xboom Buds lineup worldwide. The series includes three models — the xboom Buds, xboom Buds Plus, and the budget-friendly xboom Buds Lite. What makes this launch more interesting is that the sound tuning comes with a creative touch from none other than will.i.am.
The standard xboom Buds
The regular xboom Buds carry a familiar in-ear look, but LG has added a hook-style fit to make them more secure, especially during workouts.
Under the hood, they use graphene drivers to deliver tighter bass and cleaner highs. There’s also Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) backed by a triple-mic setup, along with support for LE Audio Auracast, which allows users to tap into shared public audio streams or connect across multiple devices at once.
Battery life comes in at around 7.5 hours per charge and up to 30 hours with the case (around 24 if you keep ANC switched on). They’re also IPX4 rated, so they can handle a sweaty gym session or a light splash of rain without worry.
Buds Plus: cleaner audio and smarter features
The xboom Buds Plus sit at the top of the new range. They offer all the core features of the standard model but add a few extras aimed at people who take audio more seriously. One of those is adaptive EQ, which fine-tunes the sound in real time based on how the buds fit in your ears.
There’s also LG’s UVnano technology, which helps kill bacteria on the ear tips and speaker mesh when the buds are resting in the case. And for frequent flyers, the Plug & Wireless mode is a clever addition. It turns the case into a Bluetooth transmitter, so you can use the earbuds with non-Bluetooth devices like airplane seatback entertainment systems.
Buds Lite: long battery life at a lower price
Finally, there’s the entry-level xboom Buds Lite, which focus on endurance and comfort. On their own, the earbuds last about 11.5 hours, and with the case, they stretch to an impressive 35 hours of playback — one of the highest in this segment.
Despite being the cheapest option, LG hasn’t cut corners on sound. You still get graphene drivers, plus access to four EQ presets through the xboom Buds app, available on iOS, Android, and Windows. The Lite model is also lightweight and ergonomically shaped, making it easy to wear throughout the day.
Pricing and availability
LG is rolling out the new earbuds across major global markets this month.
The xboom Buds Lite are priced at 99,000 KRW (around $71), the standard xbomm Buds at 100,000 KRW (around $72), and the premium xbomm Buds Plus at 199,000 KRW (around $143). Availability will vary by region, but the regular model is already listed on LG’s official website, with the Lite and Plus versions to follow soon.
With three tiers to choose from, LG is aiming to cover everyone from casual listeners to frequent travelers. And with will.i.am lending his creative input, the company is hoping the xboom Buds series will strike a balance between design, endurance, and standout sound quality.
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Nick, the Co-founder of Earbuds Arena, is a seasoned freelance tech journalist with over ten years of experience covering wearables, apps, headphones, and gadgets. When he’s not immersed in the tech world, you’ll likely find him unwinding with video games, going for a run, or enjoying a game of soccer on the field.
