r/Earbuds•
Jantra

Earbuds that work well with computers and comfortable design?

I have a combined problem - the first is that I need earbuds that pair well with a computer. Most I find seem to be phone/tablet first and it's been a real shot in the dark if they will pair well with a computer. aka: the only way to talk to them is a phone app, they don't pair properly with a computer so the touch gestures/buttons on the earbuds won't respond on a computer like they will on a phone. I've had a proper gaming headset for years that I love, but unfortunately due to the next part, I'm having to give it up.

The second is that due to a medical condition, I have considerable problems with pain around my ears and on/over the ear headsets are no longer an option. I recently tried the Shokz OpenDots 2 which for me were like a miracle as the wrap around the shell of the ear design works beautifully for my specific problem (no pressure on the top or under ear!)... but the only thing I can do with my computer with them is pair to hear sound. No touch gestures, no changing the way the sound is, etc.

Is there something specific I need to look for when it comes to finding earbuds that pair well with computers? Bluetooth seems to be a bit of a dud when it comes to Discord... should I be hunting for USB instead? Bluetooth also seems to have a distance-from-source problem that my USB headset never had.

And is there any other earbuds out there with a similar design to the Shokz OpenDots 2 that might help me in the pain department?

Really hoping for some leads when it comes to this because taking shots in the dark has been expensive to keep trying. :( Thank you!!

Price: Preferably under $300, but frankly if it is the answer to my prayers, willing to go up.

Source: PC first, would be nice if it could pair with PC or phone

Use: Gaming/music/asmr - a lot of chatting on Discord, too!

Tonal Balance: Middle of the road. I do a little of everything, so I'm not picky so long as the sound is nice and clear.

Music Genres: A little of everything, but probably leaning towards pop/rock

Other: I'd really love them to be able to last 7-9 hours at least without needing a charge, if possible.

Posted Jul 10, 2026, 5:51 PM UTC

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