Updated Fairbuds XL over-ear headphones feature modular battery and three major upgrades

Many of the upgrades introduced in the new Fairbuds XL can be easily added to the previous model. (Image source: Fairphone)

The Fairbuds XL are perhaps the most modular over-ear headphones available today. Not only is the battery easily removable, but components such as the drivers are also replaceable. Fairphone has now released an updated version of the Fairbuds XL, promising significantly improved audio quality.

Hannes Brecher (translated by Zhiwei Zhuang), Published 12/09/2025 🇩🇪

Audio Launch

The Fairbuds XL was originally introduced in May 2023. An upgraded version of the over-ear headphones has now arrived, sporting the same name and a largely unchanged design, apart from a new texture on its plastic components and fabric cover.

The most significant improvement is possibly the new “premium” paper drivers. Whilst Fairphone has once again opted for 40 mm dynamic drivers, the updated ones are designed to deliver better performance with more powerful bass alongside more accurate mids and highs. In future, owners of the original Fairbuds XL will be able to purchase these drivers separately and upgrade their existing headphones. Besides enhanced design and audio quality, the new Fairbuds XL offer another key upgrade: automatic shut-off after 30 minutes of inactivity to help conserve battery. The warranty period has also been extended from two to three years.

The new Fairbuds XL features active noise cancellation (ANC) and Bluetooth 5.1, with support for aptX HD codec and Multipoint technology. Battery life is rated at 20 hours with ANC enabled. The product’s main selling point is its focus on eco-friendly and repairable design. The company claims the headphones are e-waste neutral, manufactured using 100% renewable energy, and made with 92% recycled aluminium. Users can effortlessly swap out the battery and replace the headband, the electronics, and the cable connecting both ear cups when needed.

Price and availability

Priced at $229 / €249 / £219, the second-gen Fairbuds XL are available now in Forest Green and Horizon Black from Fairphone’s online shop. The new version thus retains the same list price as its 2023 predecessor. Shipping is scheduled to begin on 9 December 2025 in Europe, whilst customers in the US can start placing orders later this month through Amazon.

Source(s)

Fairphone

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Editor of the original article: Hannes Brecher - Senior Tech Writer - 19381 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2018

Since 2009 I have written for different publications with a focus on consumer electronics. I joined the Notebookcheck news team in 2018 and have combined my many years of experience with laptops and smartphones with my lifelong passion for technology to create informative content for our readers about new developments in this sphere. In addition, my design background as an art director at an ad agency has allowed me to have deeper insights into the peculiarities of this industry.

contact me via: @HannesBrecher, LinkedIn, Xing

Translator: Zhiwei Zhuang - Translator - 516 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2022

After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering, I moved from Singapore to Cologne in 2014 and began pursuing a career as a freelance translator. Much of my translation work focuses on science, engineering and technology. My fascination with computers and mobile electronics began when I was young. And I have fond memories reading countless tech and gaming magazines. Working with Notebookcheck gives me the opportunity to incorporate my personal interests into my professional work.

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