At Mashable, we frequently concentrate on the newest technology, and while we take pleasure in checking out the latest Sony headphones, we understand that not everyone can afford them. Premium technology can come with a hefty price tag, and a $500 pair of headphones isn’t always attainable. This is why we’re showcasing the finest budget earbuds.
Affordable earbuds provide a compact option compared to over-the-ear headphones. Despite their lower cost, these earbuds are not lacking in features. Some top earbuds we’ve evaluated reach nearly $300 — Apple AirPods Pro retail for $249.95, while Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds are priced at $299 — but there are more economical choices available. You don’t have to pay $300 or even $100 to find quality earbuds.
With Amazon Prime Day occurring from July 8 to 11, there’s an opportunity for additional savings. We’ve discovered early discounts on earbuds and headphones, including wireless options. Our top recommendation, the EarFun Air Pro 4, is already marked down to $62.99 ahead of Prime Day.
If you aim to save on economical earbuds, these are the best selections.
**What’s regarded as budget?**
Budget is a relative term, so we’re concentrating on earbuds priced under $200, primarily under $100. Our top recommendation, the EarFun Air Pro 4, comes in at $79.99 and provides noise cancellation akin to more expensive variants. Opting for budget models might involve some compromises but not sacrifices. For less than $100, you can still obtain active noise cancellation and self-charging cases.
**Other models we’ve evaluated**
The models listed stem from our thorough testing at Mashable. Our earlier top choice was the Apple AirPods 3; however, they have been supplanted by the AirPods 4, which are pricier and less compatible with Android devices.
Another option was the Skullcandy Method 360 ANC earbuds featuring sound by Bose. My colleague Bethany Allard assessed these, and while they are acceptable for $100, they possess a subpar case design and are not as comfortable as other models on this list. Moreover, the initial $100 price is anticipated to increase to $129.99.