Estimating the exact number of earphone brands in the world can be challenging due to the constantly evolving nature of the tech industry. However, there are hundreds of brands globally, ranging from well-established multinational companies to newer startups. Here’s a broad categorization:

### **Major International Brands:**
1. **Apple** (AirPods)
2. **Sony** (WF series, etc.)
3. **Bose** (QuietComfort, SoundSport)
4. **Sennheiser** (Momentum, CX series)
5. **Samsung** (Galaxy Buds)
6. **Jabra** (Elite series)
7. **Beats by Dre** (Powerbeats, Beats Fit Pro)
8. **Panasonic** (RZ-S series)
9. **JBL** (Tune series, Reflect series)
10. **Huawei** (FreeBuds series)

### **High-End and Audiophile Brands:**
1. **Bowers & Wilkins** (PI7, PI5)
2. **Shure** (SE series)
3. **RHA** (CL2, T20)
4. **Campfire Audio** (Andromeda, Solaris)
5. **FiiO** (FH series)

### **Budget and Popular Brands:**
1. **Anker** (Soundcore)
2. **Xiaomi** (Redmi Buds, Mi In-Ear)
3. **Realme** (Buds series)
4. **OnePlus** (Bullets series)
5. **Tronsmart** (Onyx, Spunky Beat)

### **Niche and Emerging Brands:**
1. **1MORE**
2. **HIFIMAN**
3. **Skullcandy** (Crusher series)
4. **Harman Kardon**
5. **AKG** (N series)

### **Regional and Local Brands:**
There are also numerous regional and local brands that cater to specific markets, which can include small or emerging companies not widely known outside their regions.
https://gadgetandgear.com/

In total, the number of brands can easily run into the hundreds, especially when considering variations and different product lines within each brand. The earphone market is quite dynamic, with new brands and models frequently emerging as technology advances and consumer preferences shift.