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Best overall: Nothing Ear (a). Best ultra-cheap ANC: JLab Go Pods ANC. Best open-ear option: Huawei FreeArc, where officially available. Best wired USB-C earbuds: Sennheiser CX 80U.
This guide covers more than conventional true wireless earbuds. It includes sealed in-ear models with noise cancellation, open-ear and ear-cuff designs for situational awareness, and wired USB-C earbuds for people who do not want Bluetooth or charging. Those categories solve different problems, so the right choice depends as much on your phone, ears, environment, and priorities as on sound quality.
The recommendations are based on TechRadar’s current guide, marked last updated 9 July 2026, and its individual product reviews. Prices are approximate regional bands and can change quickly; check the linked retailer or manufacturer page before buying.
Quick recommendations
| Earbuds | Type | Typical price band | ANC | Battery per charge | Case total | Water rating | Best for | Main drawback |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nothing Ear (a) | Sealed true wireless | Usually under $100 | Yes | Up to 9.5 hours off / 5.5 hours on, claimed | Up to 42.5 hours off / 24.5 hours on, claimed | IP54 buds; IPX2 case | Best overall balance | Shorter ANC battery life; no wireless charging |
| JLab Go Pods ANC | Sealed true wireless | About $37 / £30 | Yes | 7.5 hours claimed; about 5 hours with ANC in review use | 26 hours claimed | IP55 buds | Cheapest acceptable ANC | Loose-feeling supplied tips and harsh transparency |
| EarFun Air Pro 3 | Sealed true wireless | Under about $60 | Yes | 9 hours off / about 7 hours on, guide figures | 36 hours off, claimed | Check regional specification | Battery life and features | Older model; sound can become muddy |
| Huawei FreeArc | Open-ear hook | Regional pricing varies | No | About 7 hours per bud in TechRadar’s listing | 23 hours in TechRadar’s listing; official regional figures differ | IP57 buds, not case | Open-ear sound and secure exercise fit | Availability, app, and battery uncertainty |
| Soundpeats Clip1 | Open ear-cuff | Budget pricing | No | About 8 hours, listed | 32 hours, listed | IPX5 buds | Stability and awareness | Low maximum volume and no isolation |
| Sennheiser CX 80U | Wired USB-C | Budget wired pricing | No electronic ANC | No battery required | Not applicable | Not specified | Sound without charging | No volume controls; microphone static |
Battery figures are not directly comparable. “Claimed” means a manufacturer or guide specification; the JLab ANC figure includes a reviewer observation. Actual life varies with volume, codec, calls, multipoint, and other features.
1. Best overall budget earbuds: Nothing Ear (a)
Buy these if: you want the best all-round combination of sound, ANC, comfort, features, and price in a conventional sealed earbud.
#1 Best Overall
- Powerful Bass: soundcore P20i true wireless earbuds have oversized 10mm drivers that deliver powerful sound with boosted bass so you can lose yourself in your favorite songs.
- Personalized Listening Experience: Use the soundcore app to customize the controls and choose from 22 EQ presets. With "Find My Earbuds", a lost earbud can emit noise to help you locate it.
- Long Playtime, Fast Charging: Get 10 hours of battery life on a single charge with a case that extends it to 30 hours. If P20i true wireless earbuds are low on power, a quick 10-minute charge will give you 2 hours of playtime.
- Portable On-the-Go Design: soundcore P20i true wireless earbuds and the charging case are compact and lightweight with a lanyard attached. It's small enough to slip in your pocket, or clip on your bag or keys–so you never worry about space.
- AI-Enhanced Clear Calls: 2 built-in mics and an AI algorithm work together to pick up your voice so that you never have to shout over the phone.
Do not buy them if: you need the longest possible listening time with ANC enabled, wireless charging, or a fit guaranteed to work with very small ears.
Nothing Ear (a) is the most convincing general-purpose choice in the current TechRadar shortlist. Its energetic sound, compact case, comfortable fit, effective noise cancellation, multipoint connection, and useful app features make it a better-balanced purchase than a cheaper pair that does one thing well but compromises everywhere else.
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The main trade-off is battery life. Nothing’s official figures quote up to 9.5 hours per charge and 42.5 hours including the case with ANC off, but only 5.5 hours per charge and 24.5 hours with the case with ANC on. That is adequate for most commutes, but less impressive than the case totals advertised by some rivals. The figures come from Nothing’s official battery information.
Ear (a) uses an 11 mm dynamic driver and supports SBC, AAC, and LDAC. It also offers dual-device connection, in-ear detection, Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair, custom EQ, firmware updates, Find My Earbuds, and a fit test through the Nothing X app on Android and iOS. LDAC is useful only when the playback device supports it; iPhone users will generally use AAC instead.
The earbuds are rated IP54 and the case IPX2, so the buds can handle ordinary sweat and light splashes but the case needs more care. There is no wireless charging, Auracast, or LE Audio. Those omissions are reasonable at this price, but they matter if you want the newest connectivity features.
Price note: TechRadar’s guide lists an official price of $99 / £89 / approximately AU$192, while Nothing’s US store has recently shown a sale price of $59 against a $79 list price. Regional pricing and promotional status are inconsistent, so treat Ear (a) as “usually under $100” rather than a fixed-price product.
Read the full Nothing Ear (a) review at TechRadar.
2. Best ultra-cheap ANC: JLab Go Pods ANC
Buy these if: your budget is extremely tight and you primarily want some reduction of bus, train, office, or air-conditioning noise.
Do not buy them if: you want refined sound, a secure stock fit, natural transparency mode, or all-day ANC battery life.
At roughly $36.99 / £29.99 / AU$69.95 in TechRadar’s guide, the JLab Go Pods ANC are the cheapest recommendation here with genuinely useful ANC. They reduce low-frequency background noise substantially, although a low hum remains and sharper sounds such as voices and clatter pass through more readily.
The 10 mm-driver earbuds are very light at approximately 4.2 g each, and their Bluetooth 5.4 connection, IP55 rating, customizable controls, and EQ support are strong for the money. The maximum volume is also high. The unusual charging case has an integrated USB charging cable, which means there is one less cable to lose but also makes the case less conventional to replace or share.
There are two important fit and battery warnings. TechRadar found that the supplied eartips did not provide enough friction for a secure fit; trying different tips, or compatible third-party tips, may help. A poor seal weakens both bass and ANC. Also, the guide specification lists 7.5 hours for the earbuds and 26 hours with the case, while the review experience found approximately five hours with ANC enabled. Those numbers are not necessarily contradictory: one is a specification figure and the other is observed ANC use, but buyers should plan around the shorter real-world result.
Transparency mode can sound aggressively amplified, which is less comfortable than the natural ambient mode on better earbuds. These are therefore best as an inexpensive commuter pair, not as the final word in sound quality or awareness.
Read the full JLab Go Pods ANC review at TechRadar.
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3. Best value for long battery life: EarFun Air Pro 3
Buy these if: you want long claimed battery life, multipoint, ANC, and a broad feature set for under roughly $60.
Rank #2
- [Stereo Sound] Featuring OrigX 2.0 technology, the earbuds provide deep bass down to 18Hz, while maintaining clear mids and crisp trebles for a natural and immersive listening experience.
- [Upgraded Ergonomic Fit & Ultra-Light Earbuds] Redesigned to be even lighter and more compact than ever, the TOZO T6 slashes bulk without sacrificing stability. The refined ergonomic angle locks securely in your ear canal, while the featherweight buds virtually disappears during wear—so comfortable you'll forget they're there, and so portable they tuck into any pocket with zero clutter.
- [40 Hours Total Playtime for All-Day Listening] Enjoy up to 9 hours of continuous playback on a single charge, extended to 40 hours with the charging case—perfect for travel, workouts, and long workdays without frequent recharging.
- [Advanced Sweat & Water Resistance (IPX8)] : Protects against complete immersion in water under specific laboratory conditions. Designed to handle heavy sweat, rain, and daily water exposure with confidence.
- [Bluetooth 5.3 technology] Delivers fast pairing, stable connections, and exceptional sound quality. Whether you're at the gym, on a run, or simply relaxing in the bathtub, these headphones can accompany you well.
Do not buy them if: you want the newest EarFun design, class-leading ANC, or tightly controlled sound with dense bass-heavy music.
The EarFun Air Pro 3 remains a compelling value pick in TechRadar’s guide. It offers comfort, useful ANC, multipoint, Bluetooth LE Audio, and Auracast support alongside strong quoted endurance. The guide lists about nine hours per bud and 36 hours with the case with ANC off, and approximately seven hours per bud with ANC on.
Its sound is enjoyable but less disciplined than Nothing Ear (a). Dense arrangements and bass-heavy tracks can become muddy, while the ANC is useful rather than premium-grade. There is no wear detection, and the plain design does not stand out, but those are reasonable compromises at this price.
Recommended Free Tools
Air Pro 3 is an older recommendation, which is the principal reason to check the alternatives before ordering. TechRadar has tested newer EarFun models but still prefers Air Pro 3 for this guide, judging that the newer Air Pro 4’s features feel more cluttered and its sound was less well handled in testing. SoundGuys takes a different view: it currently gives the newer EarFun Air Pro 4+ its best-under-$100 position and treats the Air Pro 4 as a strong-value option, citing features such as ANC, LDAC, aptX Lossless, wireless charging, EQ customization, and approximately 41 hours of measured total runtime.
The practical verdict is simple: buy Air Pro 3 when its price is substantially below newer models and battery value is your priority. If Air Pro 4 or 4+ is only slightly more expensive in your region, compare the newer model’s measured ANC-on endurance, fit, warranty, and app experience before choosing.
See TechRadar’s Air Pro 3 comparison and specifications and SoundGuys’ current under-$100 comparison.
4. Best open-ear earbuds: Huawei FreeArc
Buy these if: you want to hear traffic, announcements, and people around you while keeping an ear-hook design stable during exercise.
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Huawei FreeArc is TechRadar’s best open-ear choice among its tested budget options and its strongest open-ear performer for sound. The hook design holds the earbuds securely without sealing the ear canal, making them a useful option for running, cycling, walking, and long listening sessions where awareness matters more than isolation.
Open construction is also the product’s defining limitation. Outside sound remains present, music leaks more readily, and bass is easily overwhelmed by traffic, wind, or public transport. FreeArc has no conventional ANC because there is no sealed acoustic chamber for it to work against. It is not a replacement for Nothing Ear (a) on an airplane or a noisy train.
TechRadar lists approximately 8.9 g per bud, a 67 g case, 17 × 12 mm drivers, an IP57 rating for the earbuds, and about seven hours per bud with 23 hours total. Huawei’s official regional pages quote different totals, including up to 28 or 36 hours depending on market and page. That conflict cannot be resolved from the available public specifications, so check the local product page rather than treating 23, 28, or 36 hours as universal.
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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchThe IP57 rating applies to the earbuds, not the charging case. Huawei also warns that water resistance can deteriorate over time. Sweat, salt, soap, pool water, and charging while damp remain risks even with an IP rating.
Availability needs particular care: TechRadar noted that FreeArc was not officially available in the US at the time of its guide. Android users may also need to sideload Huawei’s companion app. Basic playback works without the app, but firmware updates and advanced settings are less convenient. Check official regional distribution and warranty support before buying.
Read the full Huawei FreeArc review at TechRadar and check Huawei’s regional product information.
5. Best ear-cuff design for stability: Soundpeats Clip1
Buy these if: ordinary earbuds fall out, you want an awareness-friendly design for walking or workouts, and you prefer a clip around the outer ear.
Do not buy them if: you need isolation, loud maximum volume, strong calls in noisy places, or conventional physical controls.
Rank #3
- Smart LED Display & 50H Sport Headphones: The A10 Bluetooth 5.3 earbuds feature an LED screen that shows real-time power levels for both the case and each earbud (0-100%). With 8 hours of playtime per charge and an IPX7 waterproof case, they deliver a total of 50 hours of use—ideal for gym sessions. They support fast charging via Type-C, taking just 1.5 hours to fully charge. Boasting an ultra-light 0.008lbs design, they stay secure during marathons.
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The Soundpeats Clip1 sits around the outer ear rather than sealing the canal. Its approximately 5 g-per-bud construction provides a comfortable grip, and TechRadar tested it over two weeks with Spotify, Tidal, YouTube, Netflix, games, walking, cycling, and gym sessions. That stability and awareness make it a better exercise choice than a loose conventional in-ear bud.
It supports LDAC, low-latency game mode, Dolby Audio, in-ear detection, dynamic EQ, and a personalized listening test through the app. The 12 mm drivers are paired with a listed eight-hour bud battery and 32-hour case total. TechRadar’s review coverage lists IPX5 water resistance for the earbuds.
However, the Clip1 has a low maximum volume and no ANC. That is not merely a specification disadvantage: in a loud street, gym, train, or aircraft, outside noise can overwhelm the music. Touch controls can also be overly sensitive or unreliable, while the case feels inexpensive. Consider it a stability-and-awareness product, not a cheaper substitute for sealed travel earbuds.
Read the full Soundpeats Clip1 review at TechRadar.
6. Best wired USB-C earbuds: Sennheiser CX 80U
Buy these if: you want detailed sound without Bluetooth pairing, battery charging, or wireless latency.
Do not buy them if: your phone has uncertain USB-C audio support, you need on-cable volume controls, or calls are a major priority.
The Sennheiser CX 80U is the strongest choice here for buyers who actively prefer a cable. Its USB-C connection means there is no charging case, no wireless battery degradation, and no pairing process. Wired earbuds can also be useful with laptops, tablets, handheld consoles, and phones that support USB-C digital audio.
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TechRadar praises the CX 80U’s detailed presentation, clean bass, clear mids, vivid highs, passive isolation, and understated construction. It uses 9.7 mm dynamic drivers and has a listed 17–20,000 Hz frequency range. It does not offer electronic ANC, but a good in-ear seal provides passive isolation.
The compromises are significant but clear: there are no on-device volume controls, and the microphone produces noticeable static in testing. Mid-range refinement is also below more expensive wired options. Most importantly, USB-C audio is not universally plug-and-play. Some devices require a digital USB-C headset, some support only analog audio through particular adapters, and some do not route audio as expected. Verify compatibility with your exact phone, tablet, laptop, or console before ordering.
Read the full Sennheiser CX 80U review at TechRadar.
Best budget earbuds by use case
Best ANC under $40: JLab Go Pods ANC
Choose the JLab when the purchase must stay near the super-budget tier. Its ANC is most useful against low engine and air-conditioning noise. If you can spend closer to $60–$100, Nothing Ear (a), Sony WF-C710N, CMF Buds 2, and Soundcore Space A40 deserve comparison because inexpensive ANC varies considerably in fit and tuning.
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Nothing Ear (a) offers the best balance of energetic sound and useful features among the current main recommendations. Sound quality remains subjective, however, and codec support is not a substitute for good tuning. SoundGuys currently highlights the SoundPEATS Capsule3 Pro+ for sound quality and the Air5 Pro for Android codec support, so serious listeners should compare those models at current prices.
Best battery value: EarFun Air Pro 3, with a newer-model check
Air Pro 3 has the longest quoted case endurance among the main sealed picks, particularly with ANC off. TechRadar’s battery figures list approximately nine hours per bud and 36 hours total without ANC. For measured endurance and newer features, compare the EarFun Air Pro 4 and Air Pro 4+ before purchasing; quoted case totals and ANC-on results are not interchangeable.
Best for small ears: start with compact models, not just smaller tips
Earbud fit depends on both the nozzle and the outer shell. TechRadar cautions that Nothing Ear (a) may not suit the smallest ears, while its JLab review found that the Go Pods ANC tips did not grip well. SoundGuys currently recommends the JLab JBuds Mini as a small-ear and portability option, but check current availability and whether a 2026 replacement has appeared. A smaller tip cannot solve a housing that is physically too large; buy from a retailer with a practical return policy.
Best for running and cycling: Huawei FreeArc or Soundpeats Clip1
FreeArc’s hook and Clip1’s ear-cuff grip are more stable and awareness-friendly than many sealed buds. Choose FreeArc for the stronger open-ear sound claim, or Clip1 for its lighter ear-cuff format. Neither is appropriate when you need to block loud traffic, and awareness is not a guarantee of safety: keep volume low and follow local cycling and running rules.
Recommended Free Tools
Best for calls: Nothing Ear (a) among the main picks
TechRadar reports a substantial call-quality improvement over earlier Nothing models. The Sennheiser CX 80U, by contrast, has noticeable microphone static. SoundGuys identifies CMF Buds Pro 2 as a particularly good call-focused alternative, so compare it if frequent calls matter more than Nothing’s overall balance.
Best for iPhone
Nothing Ear (a) is the most balanced starting point for an iPhone user because its app is available on iOS, it supports AAC, and its main features do not depend on LDAC. Do not pay extra solely for an Android-oriented codec that your iPhone cannot use. Check multipoint behavior, microphone quality, and the app’s current iOS feature set before buying.
Best for Android
Android users can benefit from LDAC, aptX, LHDC, Fast Pair, and manufacturer-specific settings, but both phone and earbuds must support the relevant feature. Nothing Ear (a), Soundpeats Clip1, and EarFun models offer useful Android options. FreeArc needs a special availability and app check because Huawei’s Android setup may require sideloading.
Best without a charging case
Sennheiser CX 80U is the straightforward answer. Wired USB-C earbuds remove Bluetooth pairing and battery wear altogether, but confirm that your device supports USB-C audio and accept the loss of wireless controls and ANC.
Rank #4
- Touch-Controlled Freedom: Play, pause, skip tracks, tweak volume, or launch Siri and Google Assistant—all with simple tap gestures on the earbuds. Perfect for keeping your phone in your pocket while you stay focused on what matters.
- Fast Battery & Speed Charging: Enjoy 6 hours of uninterrupted listening on a single charge, extended to 54 hours with the included charging case. The case charges fully via Type-C in 1.5 hours, and when you're in a rush, just 10 minutes plugged in grants 2 hours of playback. A precise LED percentage indicator on the case removes all guesswork from your power levels.
- Instant-On Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.4 and dual-channel transmission mean these earbuds power up and pair automatically the second you open the case. Broad protocol support (HSP, HFP, A2DP, AVRCP) ensures flawless integration with iPhone, Android, and Windows devices, maintaining a stable connection up to 15m in clear conditions.
- Immersive Audio & Crystal Calls: True wireless stereo sound brings your music and podcasts to life with striking clarity. Meanwhile, the built-in noise-cancelling microphone filters out ambient racket so your voice comes through loud and clear on every call.
- Built for Movement: At just 7g per earbud, the soft, flexible earhook design delivers a barely-there feel that stays secure during runs, rides, and gym sessions. Three pairs of silicone ear tips (S/M/L) provide a tailored fit, and IPX7 waterproofing handles heavy sweat and rain with ease.Not intended for underwater use.
How to choose budget earbuds
First choose the form factor
Sealed in-ear earbuds are the right choice for commuting, travel, office concentration, bass, passive isolation, and ANC. They can feel intrusive, and their performance depends heavily on the ear-tip seal.
Open-ear earbuds leave the ear canal open. They are useful for announcements, running, cycling, and listeners who dislike the pressure of sealed tips. They leak sound, provide little isolation, usually have weaker bass outdoors, and can be overwhelmed by traffic or wind.
Ear-cuff or clip-style earbuds sit around or against the outer ear. They are a useful middle ground when stability and awareness matter, but they do not provide the isolation of a sealed bud. Clip1 is the relevant budget example in this guide.
Wired USB-C earbuds are best when charging and wireless latency are unacceptable. They are not feature-for-feature competitors to true wireless earbuds, so judge them on sound, compatibility, passive isolation, microphone quality, and long-term simplicity.
Do not judge ANC by the decibel number alone
Cheap ANC usually works best on steady low-frequency noise such as an engine, fan, or air-conditioning system. Voices, dishes, keyboard clicks, wind, and sudden high-frequency sounds are harder to suppress. A manufacturer’s “up to 45 dB” or similar figure is not directly comparable with another brand’s number because test conditions and frequency ranges differ.
Fit is part of ANC. If the tips do not seal, bass escapes and the cancellation system has less acoustic isolation to work with. A good budget pair with the correct tip can outperform a nominally stronger pair that fits badly. Open-ear earbuds should not be expected to deliver conventional ANC.
Treat codecs as a compatibility feature, not a sound-quality guarantee
SBC and AAC are the broadly compatible baseline. LDAC, aptX, aptX Adaptive, aptX Lossless, and LHDC require support from both the earbuds and the playback device, and availability can depend on operating system, region, app, and settings. iPhone buyers will generally not benefit from every Android-focused codec.
A higher-bitrate codec may improve transmission quality in the right setup, but it does not guarantee good tuning, comfort, ANC, call quality, or connection stability. It can also increase battery use or create problems when multipoint is enabled.
Read battery claims in four separate ways
- Bud-only playback: how long the earbuds run before returning to the case.
- ANC-on playback: usually shorter than the headline figure.
- Total case endurance: the sum of recharges, not one listening session.
- Call endurance: often lower than music playback.
Volume, ANC, LDAC, spatial audio, multipoint, and voice calls can all reduce runtime. TechRadar’s methodology measures bud-only playback at 50% volume with ANC on and off, rather than making case capacity the primary battery score. Use that distinction when comparing products.
Fit is more important than an impressive specification sheet
Try every included eartip size and use a manufacturer’s seal test where available. A good fit should not cause pain after 20–30 minutes, slip during normal movement, or require pressing the bud deeper into the ear to operate controls. Look for fins, hooks, or an ear-cuff design if conventional earbuds will not stay put.
Replaceable tips can improve grip, but they cannot make an oversized shell suitable for a small ear. Touch controls can also cause discomfort if pressing them pushes the bud inward. Check the case size as well: a case that does not fit your pocket is a daily usability failure.
Expect compromises in budget microphones
Microphone quality should be considered separately from music quality. A quiet-room call may sound clear while traffic and wind produce aggressive processing, muffled speech, or dropouts. TechRadar tests microphones by recording a standardized spoken passage and assessing prominence, clarity, detail, and naturalness, rather than relying only on a casual phone call.
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IP54, IP55, IPX5, IP57, and similar labels describe resistance under specified test conditions. They generally apply to the earbuds, not necessarily the charging case. Water-resistant does not mean waterproof: sweat, salt, soap, pool water, showering, and charging while damp can still cause damage. Dry earbuds and charging contacts completely before putting them in the case.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How TechRadar tests these earbuds
Every recommendation is individually reviewed by TechRadar audio reviewers using the site’s standardized process where applicable. This does not necessarily mean that every model was tested simultaneously in one controlled head-to-head session. TechRadar combines repeatable measurements with longer subjective listening and real-world use.
The process includes music with ANC on and off, reference playlists, codec and connection checks, microphone recordings, battery testing at 50% volume, app and multipoint evaluation, and testing of features such as spatial audio and personalization. Reviewers also assess comfort, controls, case design, water-resistance claims, and value at the product’s actual price. Use cases include transport, cafés, offices, city streets, walking, movies, podcasts, gaming, and workouts. Read TechRadar’s full earbuds testing methodology.
Best Value
- JBL Deep Bass Sound: Get the most from your mixes with high-quality audio from secure, reliable earbuds with 8mm drivers featuring JBL Deep Bass Sound
- Comfortable fit: The ergonomic, stick-closed design of the JBL Vibe Beam fits so comfortably you may forget you're wearing them. The closed design excludes external sounds, enhancing the bass performance
- Up to 32 (8h + 24h) hours of battery life and speed charging: With 8 hours of battery life in the earbuds and 24 in the case, the JBL Vibe Beam provide all-day audio. When you need more power, you can speed charge an extra two hours in just 10 minutes.
- Hands-free calls with VoiceAware: When you're making hands-free stereo calls on the go, VoiceAware lets you balance how much of your own voice you hear while talking with others
- Water and dust resistant: From the beach to the bike trail, the IP54-certified earbuds and IPX2 charging case are water and dust resistant for all-day experiences
Also consider—and why these are not the main picks
| Model | Why it may be worth checking | Why it is not a primary pick in this guide |
|---|---|---|
| Anker Soundcore Space A40 | RTINGS currently ranks it as a leading cheap wireless option and reports particularly strong overall performance and ANC for the price. | It is not among TechRadar’s current main recommendations. The difference may reflect testing methods, age, price movement, or regional availability; the source does not establish one definitive reason. |
| EarFun Air Pro 4 / Air Pro 4+ | Newer features, ANC, EQ, and broader codec support; SoundGuys currently ranks Air Pro 4+ as its best under-$100 choice and highlights roughly 41 hours of measured total runtime for Air Pro 4. | TechRadar prefers Air Pro 3 for its own guide, finding the newer feature set less cleanly handled and the sound less convincing in its testing. |
| Sony WF-C510 | What Hi-Fi? includes it among its best cheap wireless options. | It is an alternative to investigate for Sony’s app and tuning, but it is not a current main pick in TechRadar’s guide. |
| Sony WF-C710N | What Hi-Fi? lists it among its cheap ANC recommendations, and TechRadar says its ANC and features are impressive. | It sits near the upper end of the budget range, so its value depends heavily on the current price relative to Nothing Ear (a). |
| CMF Buds 2 / Buds Pro 2 | SoundGuys and Tom’s Guide highlight CMF’s low pricing, ANC, and, for the Pro 2, call performance. | TechRadar lists the Pro 2 as an alternative but finds its value limited beyond its low price and colorful design. Quoted battery and ANC figures should not be compared without checking test conditions. |
| JLab JBuds Mini | SoundGuys recommends it for small ears, portability, IP55 protection, and low price. | Check current availability and whether a newer 2026 revision has replaced it; it is not a current main pick in TechRadar’s featured list. |
| SoundPEATS Capsule3 Pro+ / Air5 Pro | SoundGuys highlights Capsule3 Pro+ for sound and Air5 Pro for Android users seeking LDAC and aptX support. | These are codec- and tuning-focused alternatives, not automatic upgrades. Confirm phone compatibility, app support, warranty, and current regional price. |
| Skullcandy Set USB-C | Worth checking if it is locally available and substantially cheaper than the CX 80U. | The current TechRadar shortlist gives the CX 80U the wired USB-C recommendation for its sound and passive isolation. |
| Google Pixel Buds 2a | Potentially attractive to Android and Pixel owners when platform integration and local pricing are priorities. | They are not a current featured pick in this guide; verify current price, fit, battery, and which Pixel-specific features work with your phone. |
| Apple AirPods 4 | A natural ecosystem option for iPhone, iPad, and Mac owners. | They can exceed the strict budget boundary, and this guide’s main picks offer stronger value for general budget buying. Consider them when Apple integration matters more than price. |
These are comparison points, not evidence that every omitted model is inferior. Independent outlets use different test conditions and place different weight on ANC, sound, platform integration, price, and product age. For example, RTINGS’ budget picks, SoundGuys’ under-$100 list, and What Hi-Fi?’s cheap-earbud guide do not produce identical rankings.
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What to do when budget earbuds disappoint
If the earbuds sound thin, lose bass, or ANC seems weak
- Try every included eartip size and reseat both earbuds.
- Run the app’s seal or fit test if available.
- Check that the two buds are not using different fit positions or ear-tip sizes.
- Try compatible third-party tips only if the nozzle is a standard size.
- If the shell itself is too large, return the earbuds rather than expecting different tips to solve the problem.
If battery life is much lower than advertised
- Compare bud-only runtime with ANC on and off, rather than comparing case totals.
- Temporarily disable ANC, spatial audio, LDAC, multipoint, and high volume to identify the cause.
- Update the firmware and app.
- Clean and dry the charging contacts; sweat can prevent a bud from charging fully.
- Do not store damp earbuds in the case.
If ANC or transparency sounds disappointing
- Improve the ear-tip seal and try the strongest ANC mode.
- Disable wind reduction or transparency processing if it creates artifacts.
- Use passive isolation or over-ear headphones for aircraft and very loud environments.
- Do not expect open-ear or ear-cuff earbuds to create a sealed quiet bubble.
If the app, codec, or multipoint does not work
- Confirm that the phone supports the selected codec and that it is enabled in the app or Bluetooth settings.
- Update the earbuds, app, and phone.
- Forget the earbuds, reset them, and pair again.
- Test one source device before enabling multipoint.
- Check whether the app is available in your country; Huawei FreeArc may require Android sideloading.
- If basic playback works without the app, use that as a fallback rather than risking an unofficial app from an untrusted source.
If an earbud gets wet
- Stop charging it and dry it thoroughly.
- Remember that IP ratings usually cover the earbuds, not the case.
- Do not swim, shower, or use the rating as permission to charge while wet.
- Treat saltwater, pool water, and soap as especially risky.
Budget boundaries and buying advice
For this guide, “budget” means roughly under $40 for super-budget models, $40–$80 for mainstream budget earbuds, and up to about $100 for upper-budget products. A product costing more than $100 normally should not be called budget simply because it is temporarily discounted. Wired USB-C earbuds are judged separately because their lack of batteries and wireless features changes the value calculation.
TechRadar uses approximate bands of under $40 / £30, under $60 / £50, and under $100 / £100, with featured products extending to approximately AU$130. These are not currency conversions or promises that every model is sold at the same relative price in every country. Local taxes, sales, distribution, warranty, and stock can change the better buy.
Before ordering, check five things: whether the price is genuinely below the next category, whether your phone supports the desired codec and app, whether the product can be returned after a fit test, whether the case has its own water rating, and whether official replacement or warranty support exists in your region. Spending $20–$40 more is worthwhile only when it fixes a real problem such as fit, ANC, calls, battery life, or connection reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cheap earbuds worth buying?
Yes, if you choose around a specific need rather than a specification list. Nothing Ear (a) is the strongest all-round value among the main picks, JLab Go Pods ANC are a good ultra-cheap ANC choice, and Sennheiser CX 80U offers good wired value. The cheapest model is not automatically the best value if it fits poorly or has unusable battery life.
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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesDo budget earbuds have good ANC?
Some do. Budget ANC is usually effective against low-frequency hum from engines, fans, and air-conditioning, but less effective against voices, wind, clatter, and sudden sounds. Nothing Ear (a) is the strongest ANC balance in this guide; JLab Go Pods ANC are the cheapest acceptable ANC option.
Is LDAC worth paying for?
Only if both your earbuds and phone support LDAC and you value higher-bitrate Bluetooth audio. LDAC does not guarantee better tuning, comfort, ANC, calls, or connection stability, and it may reduce battery life. iPhone users generally will not benefit from it.
Are open-ear earbuds safe for running?
They can make it easier to hear traffic and other people, which is useful for running and cycling, but awareness is not a complete safety system. Keep the volume low, remain alert, and follow local rules. Open earbuds are also poor choices in loud environments because traffic and wind can overwhelm the music.
Which budget earbuds are best for small ears?
Start with compact models such as the JLab JBuds Mini, which SoundGuys currently recommends for small ears, but verify 2026 availability. Nothing Ear (a) may not suit the smallest ears, and changing tips cannot fix an oversized housing. Use a retailer with a practical return policy.
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How long do cheap wireless earbuds last?
The useful listening time varies with ANC, volume, codec, multipoint, calls, and battery age. Compare bud-only runtime with ANC on and off rather than relying on the case total. TechRadar measures battery at 50% volume under both ANC conditions, while manufacturer figures are usually ideal-case claims.
Are wired USB-C earbuds better value?
They can be. Wired earbuds need no pairing, charging case, or battery replacement and usually have low latency. They give up wireless controls and ANC, however, and USB-C audio is not universal. Confirm that your phone or computer supports USB-C digital audio before buying.
Can I use these earbuds with both iPhone and Android?
Most Bluetooth models can play audio with both platforms, but advanced features vary. Check app availability, multipoint behavior, codec support, Fast Pair, firmware updates, and EQ controls. Nothing Ear (a) has an app for both iOS and Android; Huawei FreeArc may require Android app sideloading in some situations.
Does an IP rating make earbuds waterproof?
No. IP54, IP55, IPX5, and IP57 describe resistance under particular test conditions. The rating often applies only to the earbuds, not the case. Do not swim or shower with them, avoid soap and saltwater, and dry the earbuds before placing them in the case or charging.
Should I buy an older model on sale?
Yes, when the discount is large and the older model still meets your needs. EarFun Air Pro 3 remains attractive for battery life and features, but compare it with Air Pro 4 or Air Pro 4+ if the price gap is small. Also check battery age, firmware support, warranty, replacement stock, and whether a newer model improves fit or call quality.
The Bottom Line
For most buyers, choose Nothing Ear (a) if its current regional price is under $100 and its roughly 5.5-hour ANC runtime is acceptable. Choose JLab Go Pods ANC when the budget is closer to $40, Huawei FreeArc when open-ear awareness and a secure hook matter more than isolation, Soundpeats Clip1 when you prefer an ear-cuff grip, and Sennheiser CX 80U when you want good wired sound without charging.
The best budget earbud is ultimately the one whose compromises match your use. Sealed ANC earbuds, open-ear workout buds, and wired USB-C earbuds should not be treated as interchangeable products.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
