Whatever you're planning to use them for, there's a great pair of wireless earbuds out there that won't break the bank. And you may even be surprised by some of the functions and features they offer despite their affordable price tag.

Features like multipoint pairing, ANC, and high levels of water resistance aren't just for premium-priced buds.

Here are the best cheap earbuds available today.

Sony’s WF-C500 Truly Wireless In-Ear Bluetooth Earbuds are an excellent choice of premium, yet reasonably cheap earbuds. They are IPX4 water-resistant and offer a 10-hour battery life, which can be extended to 20 hours using the rechargeable earbud case. They’re lightweight and comfortable to wear and allow for single-earbud use.

So how about the sound? Well, as you’d probably expect from Sony, the sound quality is top-notch. Using a unique Digital Sound Enhancement Engine to restore sounds lost in compression, you get to enjoy high-resolution audio that truly impresses you. Additionally, the built-in microphone provides easy hands-free calling with crystal-clear sound.

These earbuds are sweatproof too, making them a solid choice for use at the gym or while out running. And if you’re in a hurry, you can snatch an hour of play time from just a 10-minute charge. You won’t get active noise cancelation with these buds, but they tick almost every other box: superior sound, great audio for calls, comfortable to wear, and decent battery life.

Key Features
  • 10-hour battery life (20 hours with case)
  • IPX4 waterproof
  • Fast charging
  • Uses digital sound enhancement engine
  • Hands-free calls
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 10 hours
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Yes
  • Brand: Sony
  • Bluetooth: Yes
  • IP Rating: IPX4
  • Solo bud mode?: Yes
  • Charging type: Yes
  • Case battery: 10 hours
  • Weight: 4.80 ounces
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 3.15 x 1.38 x 1.22 inches
  • Noise Cancellation: N/A
Pros
  • Excellent sound quality
  • Suitable for exercise
  • Comfortable to wear
Cons
  • No noise cancellation feature
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Sony WF-C500 Truly Wireless In-Ear Bluetooth Earbud Headphones

If noise cancellation is top of your priorities list for a pair of cheaper earbuds, then the EarFun Air Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds could be the answer to your prayers. Using Qualcomm aptX Adaptive Audio technology, they deliver powerful sound with minimal distortion. They use six environmental noise-canceling microphones to help block out unwanted background noise, including adverse weather sounds.

With three microphones in each earbud, you can enjoy high-quality voice calls that eliminate up to 90 percent of all peripheral noise. You can also use these earbuds to connect to two devices at a time for extra convenience and customize your experience further with the EarFun app. Here, you can switch the noise cancellation mode, customize touch controls, and so on until you have the perfect setup.

They offer a nine-hour play time, which can be boosted to an impressive 45 hours using the charging case. They’re IPX5 waterproof, protecting them against sweat damage, and they even have a built-in gaming mode, making them even more versatile. With noise-cancellation features, customizable functions, and lasting comfort, these are a great pair of lower-priced wireless earbuds to consider.

Key Features
  • Uses QualcommaptX Adaptive Audio Technology
  • 11-millimeter drivers
  • IPX5 waterproof
  • Active Noise Cancellation
  • 9-hour battery life (45 hours with case)
  • Extra customization vis EarFun app
  • Multipoint connection
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 9 hours
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Yes
  • Brand: EarFun
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.3
  • IP Rating: IPX5
  • Solo bud mode?: Yes
  • Driver Size: 11mm
  • Charging type: Yes
  • Case battery: 35 hours
  • Weight: 1.83 ounces
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 2.36 x 1.97 x 1.22 inches
  • Noise Cancellation: Yes
Pros
  • Noise canceling
  • Connect to two devices
  • Customization options
  • 45 hours of battery
Cons
  • Touch controls can be a little inconsistent
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EarFun Air Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds

If you’re after a truly budget-priced option, there are still some pleasant surprises out there in terms of what you can get for your money. Take these JLab Go Air Pop True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds for instance. With three built-in active sound modes (JLab Signature, Balanced, and Bass Boost), you can customize your sound to suit whatever you’re listening to.

Easy touch control functions allow you to play/pause, skip tracks, and answer calls with a simple tap of your finger, and you can use either earbud independently should you wish to. There are around eight hours of battery life with the earbuds themselves, which can be further extended to provide an additional 24 hours using the charging case.

Speaking of the charging case, it’s smaller than most and can be easily tucked away in a pocket without causing too much additional bulk. Six-millimeter dynamic drivers amplify the sound, and IPX4 waterproofing protects against sweat and weather damage. Finally, comfort fit gel tips make these budget buds easy to wear all day every day.

Key Features
  • Three active sound modes
  • 8-hour battery life (32 hours with case)
  • Small, easy-to-transport charging case
  • IXP4 waterproof
  • Hands-free calls
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 8 hours
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Yes
  • Brand: JLab
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.1
  • IP Rating: IPX4
  • Solo bud mode?: Yes
  • Driver Size: 6mm
  • Charging type: Yes
  • Case battery: 24 hours
  • Weight: 2.11 ounces
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 5.98 x 8.2 x 0.39 inches
  • Noise Cancellation: No
Pros
  • Affordable
  • Three different sound modes
  • Compact case for easy transportation
Cons
  • Not noise-canceling
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JLab Go Air Pop True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds

The Samsung Galaxy Buds2 are wireless earbuds with noise-canceling ambient sound, that filter out unwanted background noise while amplifying the sounds that you do want to hear. Of the three mics in each earbud, two pick up the desired sounds, and the ANC mic blocks out the rest.

Using the Galaxy Wearables app, choose from three levels of ambient noise to adjust perfectly to your environment. Reduce background noise for pure immersion in your music or podcasts, or switch up modes to hear the world around you with a more transparent sound. Clear voice transmission also makes these earbuds a great choice for hands-free calls.

Two-way dynamic speakers mean there’s thick, tasty bass with crystal clear treble to enjoy here, and simple but effective one-touch controls take no time at all to master. You’ll get around eight hours of use from a full charge, which you can expect to reduce to roughly five hours or so with ANC engaged. For great clarity of sound with adjustable ANC settings, these are some impressive earbuds that you should consider.

Key Features
  • Noise-canceling
  • Three ambient noise modes
  • 8-hour battery life
  • Customize using Galaxy Wearables app
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 8 hours
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Yes
  • Brand: Samsung
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.2
  • Solo bud mode?: Yes
  • Charging type: Yes
  • Weight: 0.176 ounces
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 1.98 x 1.97 x 1.09 inches
Pros
  • Great sound quality
  • Ambient noise modes are versatile
  • Easy to use
  • Some sound customization options available
Cons
  • Battery life is a little underwhelming
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SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds2 True Wireless Earbuds

The long-distance runner of cheaper wireless earbuds, these Soundcore by Anker Life P3 Noise Cancelling Earbuds offer an ultra-long playtime. On a full charge, the earbuds provide 10 hours of listening fun, but this can be stretched to a whopping 50 hours with the charging case. And with a handy fast charging case, you can squeeze four hours of life out of them on just a 10-minute charge.

The Multi-Mode Noise Canceling features furnish you with three different noise-canceling modes to choose from, including transport, outdoor, and indoor. These are fairly self-explanatory when it comes to selecting the right mode to suit your environment, but make a notable difference in the clarity of sound. And for an extra kick, you can engage BassUp mode for a more intense bass-heavy sound.

For voice calls, a handy AI algorithm picks up the sound of your voice and filters out background sound; making it easy for you to be heard no matter where you are. Controls can be further customized with the Soundcore app, and extra sound modes including gaming, sleeping, and ambient sound can be found here. Comfort in sound, whatever your preference.

Key Features
  • 10-hour battery life (50 hours with case)
  • 3 noise cancellation modes
  • Fast charging
  • Customizable via Soundcore app
  • BassUp mode
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 10 hours
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Six
  • Brand: Soundcore
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.2
  • IP Rating: IPX5
  • Driver Size: 11mm
  • Charging type: Yes
  • Case battery: 40 hours
  • Weight: 2.24 ounces
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 2.56 x 1.97 x 1.18 inches
  • Colors: Sky Blue
  • Noise Cancellation: Yes
Pros
  • Great battery life
  • Plenty of noise-cancelling options
  • Crystal clear voice calls
  • Can be customized
Cons
  • Touch controls can be temperamental
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Soundcore by Anker Life P3 Noise Cancelling Earbuds

While not being a true ANC option, the Jabra Elite 3 in-Ear Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds do offer the means to reduce the sound around you. An Intelligent Noise Control feature can be engaged to isolate ambient noise, dampening its effect. HearThrough technology goes the other way, acting as the equivalent of a transparency mode to allow you to hear the outside world.

Mono Mode lets you enjoy the use of one individual bud while the other charges, enabling you to keep listening endlessly if you wish. However, if you prefer stereo sound, both earbuds together will provide you with seven hours of playtime, which increases to 28 hours with the charging case. Dual six-millimeter drivers provide a decent punch of bass, and your sound can be customized further using the Sound+ app.

These earbuds are IP55 water-resistant, making them a safe choice for inclement weather. Four built-in mics plus precision touch controls make them more than adequate for voice calls, too. Mid-priced among the cheaper options out there, the only downside is a marginally lesser battery life than some of the competition.

Key Features
  • Intelligent Noise Control feature
  • 7-hour playtime (28 hours with case)
  • HearThrough technology for transparency
  • IP55 resistance
  • Customization options through Sound+ app
  • Alexa built-in
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 7 hours
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Yes
  • Brand: Jabra
  • Supported codecs: Qualcomm aptX, SBC
  • Bluetooth: Yes
  • IP Rating: IP55
  • Solo bud mode?: Yes
  • Driver Size: 6mm
  • Charging type: No
  • Case battery: 28 hours
  • Weight: 4.6 ounces
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 1.57 x 4.33 x 3.54 inches
  • Noise Cancellation: No
Pros
  • Intelligent Noise Control helps isolate background noise
  • Voice assistant compatible
  • Affordable all-rounders
Cons
  • Not noise-canceling
  • Not compatible with wireless charging
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Jabra Elite 3 in Ear Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds

Active, sporty types will appreciate the ‘stay put’ design of these TRELAB X3-Pro Wireless Earbuds with Earhooks. They hook around the tops of your ears to ensure they won’t fall loose while you put yourself through your paces. And with IPX7 water resistance and sweat proofing, these are the perfect companions for intense workouts.

Up to nine hours of battery life on a single charge, with a total listening time of 45 hours using the charging case means your headphones last as long as you do. 11-millimeter drivers deliver a sound that’s as intense as your workout, and simple one-touch controls allow you to answer calls with ease, should you happen to be interrupted.

Compatible with Google Assistant and Siri, these earbuds also support voice control technology for added convenience. And being fully chargeable in just two hours, they’ll be juiced up and ready for your next gym session or jog, come rain or shine.

Key Features
  • Non-slip earhooks
  • 45-hour battery life with charging case
  • IPX7 waterproof
  • Supports voice assistants
  • One touch controls for calls, etc.
  • Full charge in two hours
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 9 hours
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Yes
  • Brand: TRELAB
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0
  • IP Rating: IPX7
  • Solo bud mode?: Yes
  • Charging type: Yes
  • Case battery: 35 hours
  • Weight: 3.37 ounces
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 2.97 x 2.7 x 1.66 inches
  • Noise Cancellation: No
Pros
  • Great for exercising with
  • Good battery life
  • Supports voice assistant
  • Fast charging
Cons
  • Noise isolating, rather than canceling
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TREBLAB X3-Pro - Wireless Earbuds with Earhooks

The JBL Tune 130NC TWS Wireless Headphones are another mid-point option with ANC. Noise-canceling technology uses two microphones to filter out everyday background distractions, so you can focus on your music. Ambient Aware Mode lets you flip things the other way so that you can experience your sounds while still being able to hear the world around you.

JBL’s pure bass sound is delivered by 10-millimeter drivers, which gives things a nice bit of welly and lets you revel in every thumping beat. Six built-in mics let you enjoy hands-free calls in stereo with perfect clarity, and TalkThru technology allows you to stop for a quick chat without requiring you to remove your earbuds.

There are some great quality-of-life features here that make these earbuds a very tempting prospect. Battery life is pretty good too, with eight hours or so on a full charge, and boosted to almost 40 hours with the charging case. IPX4 water resistance and sweat proofing is the icing on the cake, giving you a solid, all-weather option.

Key Features
  • ANC
  • IPX4 water resistant
  • 40-hour battery life with charging case
  • Stereo hands-free calls
  • TalkThru technology
  • Ambient Aware mode
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 8 hours
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Yes
  • Brand: JBL
  • Bluetooth: Yes
  • IP Rating: IPX4
  • Solo bud mode?: Yes
  • Driver Size: 10mm
  • Charging type: Yes
  • Case battery: 24 hours
  • Weight: 1.83 ounces
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 1.06 x 0.79 x 0.79 inches
  • Noise Cancellation: Yes
Pros
  • Noise-canceling
  • TalkThru feature is convenient and practical
  • Pure Bass sound is nice and meaty
Cons
  • Earbud tips don't provide the best in-ear fit
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JBL Tune 130NC TWS True Wireless In-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones

For gamers who prefer earbuds rather than bulky over-ear headphones, it can be difficult to find a pair that enhances your in-game sound to the desired level. However, for anybody looking for a pair of dedicated gaming earbuds, you’ll thank yourself for checking out the Razer Hammerhead True Wireless X Earbuds. Designed by gamers for gamers, these are the real deal.

With a 60ms Low Latency Gaming Mode, you’re rewarded with a lag-free experience while unwinding with your favorite titles. Great news for those who enjoy gaming on Bluetooth-enabled devices, as this ensures much greater synchronicity. These earbuds are incredibly simple and convenient to use thanks to Bluetooth 5.2 with auto-pairing, meaning all you have to do is pop them in and go.

Compatible with your smartphone’s voice assistant and with touch-enabled controls, the Razer Hammerhead earbuds are versatile and easy to operate. The Razer Audio app allows you to remap touch controls, customize the EQ, and so on to elevate the experience further. And the backlit Razer logo on the charging case adds a little bit of extra excitement that gamers everywhere are bound to love.

Key Features
  • 60ms low latency gaming mode
  • Backlit charging case
  • Touch-enabled controls
  • 13mm drivers
  • Mobile app customization experience
Specifications
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Yes
  • Brand: Razer
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.2
  • IP Rating: N/A
  • Solo bud mode?: Yes
  • Driver Size: 13mm
  • Charging type: Yes
  • Weight: 1.76 ounces
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 0.99 x 2.53 x 2.08 inches
  • Noise Cancellation: No
Pros
  • Great for gamers
  • Plenty of customization options
  • Backlit charging case looks cool
  • Convenient auto-pairing
Cons
  • Lacking a bit of long-term comfort for wearer
Buy This Product
Razer Hammerhead True Wireless X Earbuds

The Skullcandy Sesh Evo True Wireless In-Ear Bluetooth Earbuds offer good value for money for those who may be constrained by their budget but still want to explore the options out there. And in terms of what they have to offer, they make pretty solid all-rounders.

With five hours of battery life in the buds themselves and an additional 19 hours from the case, you’ll get 24 hours in total. Six-millimeter drivers provide punchy sound that nevertheless impresses, even if it doesn’t blow you away. Three EQ modes are available to choose from (music, movies, and podcast), and you can use each earbud separately if you wish.

IP55 rated for water, sweat, and dust, they make a decent everyday pair of earbuds that will provide for a multitude of uses. Hands-free calls are happily accommodated here, and touch controls let you accept calls, adjust volume, and skip tracks with ease. And for the asking price, any small issues with the battery life or sound power are easy to mitigate.

Key Features
  • 24-hour battery life (including charging case)
  • Three EQ modes for music, movies and podcasts
  • IP55 water-resistant
  • Supports hands-free calls
  • Six-millimeter drivers
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 5 hours
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Yes
  • Brand: Skullcandy
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0
  • IP Rating: IP55
  • Solo bud mode?: Yes
  • Charging type: No
  • Case battery: 19 hours
  • Weight: 2.24 ounces
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 7.28 x 4.21 x 1.54 inches
Pros
  • Good value for money
  • EQ modes offer some limited customization
  • Handy for everyday use
Cons
  • Not noise-canceling
Buy This Product
Skullcandy Sesh Evo True Wireless In-Ear Bluetooth Earbuds

FAQ

Q: Are Cheap Wireless Earbuds Safe?

There is no evidence to suggest that cheap wireless earbuds are harmful. Bluetooth earbuds and headphones emit a very low level of nonionizing radiation, which is harmless to humans. In general, wireless earbuds are safe if used as per instructions.

Q: Are Earbuds Worth Buying?

Earbuds are great if you are on the move and don't want obtrusive headphones in the way. They are ideal for playing sports, running, and gym sessions. Most even comfortably in your ear without falling out.

Unless you plan to spend a lot of money on earbuds, you generally won't get as good sound quality as over-ear headphones, but you may be surprised at the decent level of audio you can get with budget earbuds.

Q: Are Earbuds Repairable?

Most cheap earbuds are easily replaced due to their price. However, if you don't want to spend money on a new pair of earbuds, there are ways you can repair them.

Sometimes it is possible to isolate a wire that has shorted out by bending it in certain spots. You can then use a soldering iron and electronics solder to fix the issue.

However, many earbuds and headphones come with a warranty or guarantee, so it's worth checking this out beforehand.