Earbuds have become an essential tech accessory for many, allowing us to listen to music, take calls, and more on the go. However premium models like AirPods can be expensive, putting them out of reach for some buyers. Thankfully, the budget earbuds marketplace has exploded with surprisingly capable and affordable options.
In this expert guide, we’ll review the key factors to weigh when shopping for budget earbuds and showcase 5 of the top-rated models under $100 based on critical and customer reviews.
What to Look for in Budget Earbuds
While budget earbuds make some compromises to lower costs, many provide impressive versatility, sound, and battery life if you know what features to prioritize.
Key Buying Considerations:
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Sound Quality: Many sub-$100 models now include advanced audio components that rival more premium brands. Prioritize earbuds with larger drivers (8-15mm), better frequency responses (20-20kHz), and noise isolation for improved sound.
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Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0 or higher provides solid wireless range and connectivity. Some models also allow wired listening as a backup.
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Battery Life: Shoot for at least 5-6 hours playback per charge minimum, with up to 24 additional hours from the charging case. Quick charge support is also nice to have.
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Comfort and Fit: Lightweight in-ear or earhook designs with multiple eartip size options help get a secure and comfortable fit for long listening sessions.
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Durability: Sweat/water resistance (IPX4 or IPX7 ratings) make earbuds more durable and weatherproof for active lifestyles. Look for impact-resistant builds as well.
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Extra Features: Noise cancellation, transparency/ambient sound mode, and touch controls offer added versatility for the money.
Now let’s showcase 5 of the top budget earbuds that provide great overall performance without breaking the bank!
1. Anker Soundcore Life P2i – Best Under $50
Overview
- Price – $39.99
- Key Features – Graphene drivers, 4 mics, noise cancellation, IPX5 waterproof, wireless and wired modes, 36 hour battery
- Use Case – Inexpensive earbuds packed with features and great sound
Pros
- Superb audio and call quality from advanced graphene drivers
- Impressive noise cancelling performance for the price
- IPX5 rating and impact-resistant shell
- 7 hours playback + 36 hours with case
Cons
- Bulky earpiece design
- Noise cancellation still trails premium brands
Verdict
For just $40, the Soundcore Life P2i earbuds are stuffed with audio innovations like graphene drivers and 4-mic noise cancelling tech that outclass the competition. Rugged and waterproof too.
2. EarFun Air Pro SV – Best Under $100
Overview
- Price – $79.99
- Key Features – 10mm titanium composite drivers, 6 mics, hybrid ANC and transparency modes, wireless charging, IPX5 rating, 28 hour battery
- Use Case – Feature-loaded earbuds with awesome sound quality and noise control
Pros
- Big, warm sound fueled by advanced drivers
- Impressive noise handling with ANC and ambient modes
- Wireless and fast charging support
- IPX5 sweatproofing and impact resistance
Cons
- Battery life lags competitors (7 hours playback)
- Some connectivity issues reported
Verdict
As a premium-like option under $100, the EarFun Air Pro SV earbuds are stuffed with titanium drivers, great noise cancelling tech, and wireless charging that audio geeks will love.
3. FIIL T1 Pro – Best Battery Life
Overview
- Price – $59.99
- Key Features – Dual composite drivers, MEMS mic, 30 hour battery, touch controls, IPX5 rating
- Use Case – Great sounding wireless earbuds with marathon battery life
Pros
- Big, balanced sound quality
- Huge 30 hour total battery life
- IPX5 waterproof and sweatproof
- Excellent connectivity and range
Cons
- Bulky case and earbud design
- No active noise cancellation
Verdict
The FIIL T1 Pro earbuds can run for a ridiculous 30 hours on a charge while delivering excellent wireless sound quality – perfect for travel and all-day listening.
4. TOZO NC2 – Best Noise Cancelling
Overview
- Price – $59.99
- Key Features – 6mm graphene drivers, dual mics, 35db hybrid ANC, 30 hour battery, wireless and wired modes
- Use Case – Impressive active noise cancelling earbuds without the premium price
Pros
- Top-tier 35db noise cancellation
- Graphene-powered sound
- 30 hour total battery with ANC on
- IPX8 waterproof and sweatproof
- Stable fit with earfins
Cons
- Bulky earpiece design
- Bass could be punchier
Verdict
Priced at just $60, the TOZO NC2 earbuds still manage to deliver better active noise cancelling performance than some $200+ models. Crystal clear sound too.
5. Phiaton BT530 – Most Comfortable
Overview
- Price – $59.99
- Key Features – Dual drivers, Bluetooth 5.3, 26 hour battery, earhook design, IPX4 rating
- Use Case – Lightweight and comfortable earbuds ideal for sports and exercise
Pros
- Super lightweight and comfortable fit
- Secure over-ear hook design
- Sweatproof with IPX4 rating
- Great sound quality for the gym
Cons
- Battery life just average at 6 hours
- Lower waterproof rating
Verdict
The Phiaton BT530 earbuds live up to their name with a feather-like fit that makes them disappear during workouts. But they still pump out surprisingly good sound.
Budget Earbuds – Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why buy budget earbuds instead of premium brands?
A: You can still get surprisingly good versatility and sound quality without spending a fortune. Many budget models now have better tech and audio components than ever.
Q: Do budget wireless earbuds have connectivity or interference issues?
A: Generally no – modern Bluetooth 5.0+ and antenna improvements have made connectivity very stable. Just beware truly cheap generic brands.
Q: How do I get the best sound out of budget earbuds?
A: Use eartips that form a tight in-ear seal to improve sound isolation and bass response. You can also try third-party eartips like Comply Foam if included tips aren‘t comfortable.
Q: What’s the difference between noise isolation and noise cancellation?
A: Noise isolation passively blocks external noise via a snug ear canal fit. Active noise cancellation uses microphones and algorithms to electronically counter ambient noise.
Q: Should I buy wired or wireless budget earbuds?
A: Wireless is generally preferred for untethered listening freedom, but wired earbuds avoid battery life worries. Lightning and USB-C wired models allow use with modern smartphones.
In Summary
While it’s tempting to dismiss budget picks as lower-quality, many modern sub-$100 earbuds like our top 5 deliver astonishingly premium features and sound to fit tight budgets. Just be sure to validate critical aspects like sound isolation, waterproofing, and battery life suit your personal needs.
Let us know if you have any other questions about selecting awesome budget wireless earbuds in the comments!
