Tech Accessories · Budget Audio
Best Wireless Earbuds Under $100 in 2025
Affordable earbuds no longer mean compromises. We tested seven leading models to find the pairs with reliable ANC, comfortable fits, and dependable mics for hybrid work.
Key takeaways
- ANC and multipoint Bluetooth are now table stakes under $100—prioritize fit and seal before chasing codec support.
- Battery claims vary wildly. Our real-world tests show 6–8 hours with ANC on is the realistic target for this tier.
- App support matters. Choose buds with firmware updates and EQ controls so you can extend their lifespan.
Top picks at a glance
We evaluated comfort, mic clarity, ANC strength, and durability. Ratings below combine lab measurements with crowdsourced sentiment from 12,000+ owner reviews.
| Model | Best for | Why it stands out |
|---|---|---|
| Soundcore Liberty 4 NC | Everyday commuters | Adaptive ANC, LDAC option for Android, and a pocketable case that recharges fully in under 90 minutes. |
| EarFun Air Pro 3 | Call-heavy workdays | Six beamforming mics and Qualcomm cVc noise suppression gave the clearest voices in our windy test chamber. |
| JBL Live Buds 3 | Fitness & durability | IP55 sweat resistance, secure wing tips, and the most stable Bluetooth connection when surrounded by competing devices. |
How we tested
Each earbud set received a two-week test cycle. We measured the passive and active noise reduction using an artificial head, recorded mic quality in three environments, and logged charging speed with 20W USB-C bricks. Long-form comfort notes came from commuter and gym volunteer panels spanning four ear shapes.
We also track long-term ownership data. Our review crawler flags spikes in failure reports so we can re-test firmware or swap recommendations quickly.
Buying advice
Fit and ear-tip selection
Most frustrations stem from poor seal. Swap to the next size up and twist the buds slightly forward—if you can hear your own footsteps loudly, the seal needs work. Foam tips add isolation but trap moisture, so rotate in silicone tips for workouts.
Battery expectations
Marketing often lists 10-hour playback, but we logged closer to 7 hours with ANC enabled at 70% volume. Focus on fast top-ups: cases that deliver 4 hours of playback after a 15-minute charge keep you going on long travel days.
Microphone clarity
Multipoint lets you answer calls from your laptop and phone without re-pairing. Check for Qualcomm cVc or AI noise suppression if you handle calls near busy streets. The Air Pro 3 topped our leaderboard thanks to aggressive wind filtering.
Upgrade paths & accessories
Ready to invest more? Step up to the Sony LinkBuds S for spatial audio or the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds if you want premium ANC and immersive sound. Traveling frequently? Pair your buds with a compact power bank so the case never runs flat in transit.
For iPhone owners considering AirPods, jump to our AirPods vs. Galaxy Buds comparison to see how Apple's H2 chip stacks up against Samsung's Galaxy AI tuning.