Budget Wireless Earbuds to Buy in 2025

Bluetooth: v5.2 | ANC: Yes | Transparency mode: Yes | Custom EQ: Yes | Charging port: USB-C | wireless charging: Yes | Water resistance: IPX4 | Multipoint connectivity: Yes (2 devices) | Wear detection: No | Battery life (rated): 10 hrs, 50 hrs w/ case | Fast charging (rated): 10 mins = 4 hrs | Codecs: SBC, AAC, LDAC | Warranty: 18 months

Even after two and a half years on the market, the Anker Soundcore Space A40 remains one of the best values in wireless earbuds. With a typical price range of $45 to $60, it provides performance and features that rival earbuds costing double. The lightweight, well-balanced design ensures comfort for extended listening sessions. The default sound profile is warm, featuring a slight boost in the upper-bass and a dip in the treble, which may soften some intricate details but remains enjoyable overall. Importantly, unlike many budget options, it doesn’t overwhelm the low-end, and the Soundcore app allows you to customize the sound profile with EQ tools for a more tailored experience, adding depth to the bass or enhancing high frequencies as desired.

The standout feature of the Space A40 is its exceptional active noise cancellation (ANC), which is impressive for its price. While it may not completely eliminate higher-pitched sounds, it effectively reduces background noise, such as the rumble of trains or jet engines. Anker’s adaptive ANC automatically adjusts the intensity based on your environment, but you can also set it manually to strong, moderate, or weak levels, catering to those with sensitive ears. Additionally, a transparency mode is available, though it doesn’t quite match the effectiveness of high-end models like the AirPods Pro, it still serves its purpose.

Modern conveniences are also included; the Space A40 allows for simultaneous connection to two devices, and you can use a single earbud independently. With an impressive battery life of around eight hours and an included charging case that provides an additional 40 hours, it also supports wireless charging. The IPX4 rating offers decent water resistance, making it suitable for light rain and everyday sweat. Although the touch control scheme can feel complex with up to six customizable shortcuts for taps and long presses, it operates reliably without significant connection issues.

However, there are a few downsides to consider. The microphone quality could be improved, as it struggles with sibilant sounds and may not perform well in noisy environments, making it less than ideal for phone calls. Additionally, there is no automatic pausing feature when you remove an earbud, which some users might miss.

Bluetooth: v5.3 | ANC: Yes | Transparency mode: Yes | Custom EQ: Yes | Charging port: USB-C | Wireless charging: Yes | Water resistance: IPX4 | Multipoint connectivity: Yes (2 devices) | Wear detection: Yes | Battery life (rated): 10 hrs, 50 hrs w/ case | Fast charging (rated): 10 mins = 4 hrs | Codecs: SBC, AAC, LDAC | Warranty: 18 months

The Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC is an excellent choice for those who prefer a more pronounced “stem” design similar to the AirPods. In many respects, these earphones mirror the Space A40 but with a different aesthetic. They feature an impressive adaptive ANC system, a secure fit, wireless charging capabilities, an intuitive app, an IPX4-rated water resistance, and the ability to connect to two devices simultaneously. Although battery life is comparable, users often experience about half an hour more usage with the Liberty 4 NC.

This model delivers a thrilling audio experience with a powerful bass response and a noticeable treble spike, embodying the lively sound profile typical of modern headphones. This makes it particularly appealing for genres like EDM and pop music. However, the intense sound signature may be fatiguing for some listeners. While the Space A40 offers a more laid-back sound, the Liberty 4 NC’s customizable EQ settings in the Soundcore app allow users to adjust the audio profile, although the bass remains prominent.

Additionally, you can manually adjust the ANC strength on a five-step scale, providing more control than the Space A40’s three-step system. The touch controls are more advanced, allowing for triple taps to change volume or access various commands. Wear detection is included, and the integrated microphones perform better in windy conditions. However, the auto-pause feature is slow to respond when removing an earbud, and call quality remains average overall. The transparency mode is functional but not exceptional. It’s worth noting that at $100, this model is right at the edge of our budget recommendations.

While newer models like the Anker Liberty 4 Pro and Liberty 5 offer additional features, they exceed our $100 threshold, making the Liberty 4 NC an ideal choice for those seeking quality without overspending.

Bluetooth: v5.2 | ANC: No | Transparency mode: No | Custom EQ: Yes | Charging port: USB-C | Wireless charging: Yes | Water resistance: IPX7 | Multipoint connectivity: No | Wear detection: No | Battery life (rated): 7 hrs, 30 hrs w/ case | Fast charging (rated): 10 mins = 2 hrs | Codecs: SBC, AAC | Warranty: 18 months

If you’re in the market for true wireless earbuds under $50, the Earfun Free 2S is an excellent choice. Much like the Liberty 4 NC, these earbuds deliver a robust bass response with a slight treble enhancement. While they may lack some mid-range details and can become tiring to listen to for extended periods, they offer a richer sound experience than many others in this price bracket. You can also adjust the audio using the EarFun app, albeit with fewer EQ presets compared to the Space A40.

The earpieces are designed to fit comfortably without being oversized, and with soft silicone ear tips, they are generally suitable for prolonged use. With an impressive IPX7 rating, these earbuds are fully waterproof, making them a great option for workouts and outdoor activities. They feature reliable touch controls and provide around seven hours of playtime on a single charge, with the included case offering an additional 30 hours. While the case isn’t the smallest on the market, it remains portable enough to fit in your pocket.

However, buyers should be aware of some limitations in this price range. The Free 2S lacks features such as active noise cancellation, multi-device connectivity, automatic pausing, and transparency modes. While the microphone quality is decent, it does struggle with wind noise, which could be a drawback for outdoor use.

Bluetooth: v5.3 | ANC: No | Transparency mode: Yes | Custom EQ: Yes | Charging port: USB-C (integrated) | Wireless charging: No | Water resistance: IP55 | Multipoint connectivity: No | Wear detection: No | Battery life (rated): 9 hrs, 35+ hrs w/ case | Fast charging (rated): 10 mins = 1 hr | Codecs: SBC | Warranty: 2 years

For gym enthusiasts seeking budget-friendly earbuds, the JLab Go Sport+ are a fantastic option priced at just $30. With an around-the-ear hook design, these earbuds stay securely in place during various activities such as jogging, weightlifting, or intense workouts. The soft and flexible hooks ensure comfort regardless of ear size, making them a versatile choice. With an IP55 water-resistant rating, they can endure sweats and light moisture, although it’s important to note this rating does not apply to the charging case. Battery life ranges from eight to nine hours on a single charge, and the case adds another 35 hours of playtime. The touch controls are responsive and easy to use, enhancing the overall user experience, including a surprisingly effective transparency mode that allows you to hear your surroundings when needed.

While the Go Sport+ works seamlessly with JLab’s straightforward smartphone app for assigning touch controls and checking battery status, the built-in EQ presets aren’t particularly dynamic. The default “JLab Signature” profile may feel light on bass and slightly harsh in the treble compared to models like the Space A40. Although the default sound profile is adequate for casual listening, it may not satisfy audiophiles seeking depth and richness in their audio experience. It’s essential to have reasonable expectations when purchasing such an affordable product.

In terms of additional features, the Go Sport+ lacks ANC, wireless charging, auto-pausing, and multi-device connectivity. The charging case comes with a short USB-C cable that’s permanently attached, which can be convenient but requires extra care to avoid damage. Additionally, while the case could be more compact, it remains portable enough for most users. The microphone may struggle in windy environments, which is a consideration for those who plan to use them outdoors frequently. Regardless, at $30, the Go Sport+ offers notable value as a reliable choice for workouts.

Bluetooth: v5.2 | ANC: No | Transparency mode: No | Custom EQ: Yes | Charging port: USB-C | Wireless charging: No | Water resistance: IPX2 | Multipoint connectivity: Yes (2 devices) | Wear detection: Yes | Battery life (rated): 5 hrs, 6 hrs w/ wake word off, 20 hrs w/ case | Fast charging: 15 mins = 2 hrs | Codecs: SBC, AAC, aptX | Warranty: 1 year

If you prefer open earbuds that rest comfortably on the outer ear, the Amazon Echo Buds present a great alternative to pricier models like the AirPods, priced at $50. Though the plastic construction may not feel premium, these earbuds offer a lightweight design that doesn’t compromise on durability. While they do allow sound to enter and exit more readily than in-ear options, this characteristic can be advantageous for those who prefer situational awareness. The fit can be customized by removing the pre-installed silicone covers if necessary, but be mindful that comfort is subjective and varies based on ear shape. The microphone quality is satisfactory, and the circular touch panels offer ample space for user controls, which are both customizable and responsive. With a battery life of approximately five hours, these earbuds perform adequately for their price point. The case conveniently adds three full charges, though it’s important to note that Amazon does not include a USB-C charging cable with the product. A lower IPX2 water resistance rating means these earbuds aren’t ideal for gym use.

While the Echo Buds sound acceptable out of the box, utilizing the EQ sliders in the Alexa app can help refine the audio profile, particularly if the treble feels overly pronounced. This slight adjustment can enhance clarity for vocals and instruments while maintaining a good balance. However, expect some limitations in bass response, as open earbuds generally do not deliver deep sub-bass, though they can still produce some low-end rumble for genres like hip-hop and EDM.

Unlike many budget options, the Echo Buds offer features like auto-pausing and multi-device connectivity. While switching between devices may require manual pausing on one device before switching to another, it’s a valuable feature for this price range. These earbuds also integrate Alexa for hands-free voice control, which can be turned off by disabling the microphones if desired. The Alexa app, while cluttered, offers features such as a lost device tracker and sidetone control for phone calls, enhancing the overall user experience.