Why Budget Wireless Earbuds Are Better Than Ever
The market for wireless earbuds has changed dramatically by 2025. Many devices under $200 now come equipped with features like active noise cancellation (ANC), longer battery life, and app integration that were previously exclusive to high-end models.
We carried out comprehensive practical testing of the newest low-cost options, concentrating on useful metrics like call clarity, battery efficiency, and audio fidelity, to confirm these improvements. Seven dependable models, ranging from neutral sound profiles to those with improved bass response, that strike a balance between performance and cost are described in this review.
Quick Navigation
Best Overall: EarFun Air Pro 4 | Best Value: CMF Buds Pro 2 | Best Bass: Anker Soundcore P40i | Best Sound: Nothing Ear (a) | Sony Quality: WF-C700N | Android: OnePlus Buds 3 | Apple Simple: Beats Solo Buds
EarFun Air Pro 4
These earbuds set a new standard for small audio devices by combining titanium-coated drivers with support for LDAC high-resolution sound. The QuietSmart 3.0 technology makes them very quiet, which makes them great for listening. They also have wireless charging and next-gen connectivity, so they can be used by anyone and will work with any device.
Key Specifications
Pros
- Exceptional 50dB ANC performance
- LDAC support for hi-res audio
- Outstanding battery life
- Wireless charging included
- Excellent app customization
Cons
- Slightly bulky design
- No wear detection sensors
- Touch controls can be sensitive
CMF Buds Pro 2
These earbuds are a master class in industrial design and functionality. The case has a unique Smart Dial that makes it easy to use. Not only do they look different, but they also work great with high-fidelity streaming and strong noise cancellation. They offer a customizable experience that stands out in a crowded market, making them great for people who value personalization.
Key Specifications
Pros
- Unbeatable price-to-performance ratio
- Unique customizable design
- 50dB ANC at $50 price point
- LDAC hi-res audio support
- Innovative Smart Dial controls
Cons
- No wireless charging
- Design may not appeal to everyone
- Transparency mode could be better
Anker Soundcore P40i
These earbuds are made to last and take a lot of impact, so they can handle even the busiest schedules. They use big drivers and their own BassUp technology to make a sound that is loud and full of energy. They have the longest battery life in the business, making them the best reliable workhorse for long commutes and tough workouts.
Key Specifications
Pros
- Exceptional bass performance
- Industry-leading 60h battery
- Extensive EQ customization
- Excellent call quality (6 mics)
- Comfortable fit for extended use
Cons
- Bass may overwhelm some genres
- ANC not as strong as competitors
- No LDAC support
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Nothing Ear (a)
Teenage Engineering's experts have tuned these earbuds to give you a balanced, rich soundstage that combines iconic clear aesthetics with serious audio engineering. They look great, but they also have a lot of useful features, like low-latency performance for gaming and built-in AI voice capabilities for a truly modern experience.
Key Specifications
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality
- Unique transparent design
- ChatGPT integration
- Premium build quality
- Comprehensive Nothing X app
Cons
- No wireless charging
- IP54 rating (not IPX5)
- ChatGPT requires subscription
Sony WF-C700N
These earbuds emphasize comfort and clarity while incorporating renowned audio expertise into a featherlight form factor. They ensure a rich listening experience by using sophisticated DSEE upscaling to recover high-frequency details lost in digital compression. They are ideal for all-day professional use without fatigue because of their ergonomic design, which is essentially weightless.
Key Specifications
Pros
- Reliable Sony sound quality
- DSEE audio upscaling technology
- Ultra-lightweight and comfortable
- Excellent Sony app support
- Multipoint connection
Cons
- Lower battery life than competitors
- ANC not as powerful as EarFun
- No wireless charging
OnePlus Buds 3
These earbuds are made to be the best companion for Android fans. They use a coaxial dual-driver system to separate bass and treble for better sound quality. They have a sleek, high-end metal finish and support spatial audio and high-definition wireless transmission, making them feel like a theater.
Key Specifications
Pros
- Dual-driver sound quality
- Strong 49dB ANC performance
- Google Spatial Audio support
- Excellent Android integration
- Premium metallic finish
Cons
- Limited iOS functionality
- Case is somewhat bulky
- No wireless charging
Beats Solo Buds
These earbuds deliver the seamless magic of the Apple ecosystem in a no-frills design with raw endurance in a portable package. Although they do not offer noise cancellation, their custom acoustic architecture and massive standalone battery life allow your music to play for longer periods of time without having to return to the case.
Key Specifications
Pros
- Seamless Apple integration
- 18-hour earbud battery
- Signature Beats sound
- Find My network support
- Ultra-compact case design
Cons
- No Active Noise Cancellation
- Case doesn't charge earbuds
- Limited features vs competitors
Complete Comparison Table
| Model | Price | ANC Depth | Battery Life | Driver Size | Water Rating | Special Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EarFun Air Pro 4 | $53.19 | 50dB | 45 Hours | 11mm Titanium | IPX5 | LDAC, Wireless Charging | Overall Best Value |
| CMF Buds Pro 2 | $47.00 | 50dB | 43 Hours | 11mm Dynamic | IP55 | Customizable Design, LDAC | Budget Champions |
| Anker P40i | $41.99 | 42dB | 60 Hours | 11mm Oversized | IPX5 | BassUp 2.0, 22 EQ Modes | Bass Lovers |
| Nothing Ear (a) | $59.00 | 45dB | 42.5 Hours | 11mm Dynamic | IP54 | ChatGPT, Transparent Design | Audiophiles |
| Sony WF-C700N | $74.97 | Adaptive | 15 Hours | 5mm Dynamic | IPX4 | Noise Sensor, DSEE | Sony Fans |
| OnePlus Buds 3 | $86.00 | 49dB | 44 Hours | 10mm + 6mm Dual | IP55 | Spatial Audio, LHDC 5.0 | Android Users |
| Beats Solo Buds | $69.95 | None | 18 Hours | Custom Beats | IPX4 | Apple H1, Find My | Apple Ecosystem |
What to Keep in Mind: Complete Buying Guide
Choosing the perfect budget wireless earbuds requires balancing your priorities with available features. Here's everything you need to know to make an informed decision in 2025:
1. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
Budget ANC has dramatically improved, but not all implementations are equal. Look for:
- ANC Depth: Modern budget earbuds offer 40-50dB noise reduction, comparable to older flagships. The EarFun Air Pro 4 and CMF Buds Pro 2 both achieve 50dB.
- Adaptive vs. Fixed: Adaptive ANC automatically adjusts to your environment. Most models in our list feature this smart technology.
- Transparency Mode: Essential for awareness of surroundings. Check user reviews for natural-sounding transparency.
- Wind Noise Reduction: Important for outdoor use. Higher-end models include dedicated algorithms.
Pro Tip
If you primarily use earbuds in quiet environments, consider the Beats Solo Buds and invest savings elsewhere. However, for commuters and frequent travelers, strong ANC (like the EarFun Air Pro 4 or OnePlus Buds 3) is worth every penny.
2. Sound Quality Essentials
Sound quality depends on multiple factors beyond just driver size:
- Driver Size & Type: Larger drivers (10-11mm) typically deliver better bass and soundstage. Dual-driver setups like the OnePlus Buds 3 offer superior separation.
- Audio Codecs: LDAC and LHDC provide hi-res audio quality. AAC is standard for Apple devices. The EarFun Air Pro 4, CMF Buds Pro 2, and Nothing Ear (a) support LDAC.
- Tuning Philosophy: Consider your music preference. Bass-heavy (Anker P40i), balanced (Nothing Ear (a)), or signature sound (Beats Solo Buds).
- EQ Customization: App-based EQ allows personalization. The Anker Soundcore app offers 22 preset modes plus custom EQ.
- Professional Tuning: Some brands collaborate with audio experts. Nothing Ear (a) features Teenage Engineering tuning.
3. Battery Life Considerations
Battery performance varies significantly across models:
- Earbud Battery: Look for 6-8 hours minimum with ANC on. The Beats Solo Buds offer exceptional 18 hours without a charging case.
- Total Battery: With case, aim for 30+ hours. The Anker Soundcore P40i leads with 60 hours total.
- Fast Charging: Modern earbuds offer impressive quick charge. CMF Buds Pro 2 provides 2 hours from 5 minutes charging.
- Wireless Charging: Convenient but adds cost. Only the EarFun Air Pro 4 includes this at the budget level.
- Real-World Usage: Manufacturer claims assume 50% volume. Actual battery life varies with ANC usage and volume levels.
4. Call Quality & Microphones
Essential for work calls and voice assistants:
- Microphone Count: More microphones generally mean better call quality. The Anker P40i features 6 AI-enhanced mics.
- AI Noise Reduction: Advanced algorithms filter background noise. Look for AI-powered call enhancement.
- Wind Suppression: Important for outdoor calls. Check reviews for real-world performance.
- Voice Assistant Quality: Test how well earbuds pick up commands in various environments.
5. Water & Sweat Resistance
Protection ratings matter for active lifestyles:
- IPX4: Splash-resistant, suitable for light workouts (Sony WF-C700N).
- IPX5: Water jet resistant, ideal for intense workouts (EarFun Air Pro 4, Anker P40i).
- IP55: Dust and water resistant, best for outdoor activities (CMF Buds Pro 2, OnePlus Buds 3).
- IP54: Moderate dust and splash resistance (Nothing Ear (a)).
Important Note
Water resistance ratings apply to earbuds only, not charging cases. Avoid submerging in water, and rinse/dry after sweaty workouts to maintain longevity.
6. Comfort & Fit
The best earbuds are ones you'll actually wear:
- Earbud Weight: Lighter is better for extended use. Sony WF-C700N weighs just 4.6g per earbud.
- Ear Tip Options: Multiple sizes ensure proper fit. Look for at least 3-4 size options.
- Fit Test: Apps like Nothing X and Sony Headphones Connect include fit tests to ensure optimal seal.
- Stem vs. Stemless: Stemless designs (Nothing Ear (a)) are compact but may be harder to remove. Stem designs offer easier handling.
- Long Session Comfort: Read reviews specifically mentioning 2+ hour comfort for your use case.
7. Connectivity & Features
Modern connectivity features enhance usability:
- Bluetooth 5.3/5.4: Latest versions offer better range, stability, and lower latency.
- Multipoint Connection: Connect to two devices simultaneously. Essential for work-life balance.
- Low Latency Mode: Gaming modes reduce lag to under 100ms. Nothing Ear (a) achieves 94ms.
- App Ecosystem: Comprehensive apps add significant value through customization and updates.
- Platform Integration: Apple users benefit from H1 chip features (Beats Solo Buds). Android users appreciate Fast Pair and Google Spatial Audio (OnePlus Buds 3).
8. Build Quality & Design
Premium feel doesn't always require premium prices:
- Materials: Look for quality plastics with good finishing. Metallic accents add perceived value.
- Case Design: Compact cases fit better in pockets. Consider if you need lanyard attachment (CMF Buds Pro 2).
- Hinge Durability: Check reviews for long-term hinge reliability.
- LED Indicators: Clear battery indicators help track charge status.
- Unique Designs: Transparent cases (Nothing Ear (a)) or customizable options (CMF Buds Pro 2) express personality.
9. Price vs. Value Analysis
Understanding the price-performance sweet spot with current market prices:
- Under $50 (Best Budget Pick): Anker Soundcore P40i at $41.99 and CMF Buds Pro 2 at $47.00 both deliver exceptional value. The Anker wins on battery life (60 hours) and bass performance, while CMF offers 50dB ANC and LDAC at an unbeatable price point—the best sub-$50 option available.
- $50-$75 (Sweet Spot Range): EarFun Air Pro 4 at $53.19 offers the most complete feature set with flagship-level 50dB ANC, LDAC, wireless charging, and titanium drivers—making it the best overall value. Nothing Ear (a) at $59.00 delivers audiophile-grade sound with Teenage Engineering tuning and transparent design. Beats Solo Buds at $69.95 provide simplicity and Apple integration without ANC. Sony WF-C700N at $74.97 brings brand reputation and compact comfort with Sony's audio expertise.
- $80-$90 (Premium Budget Tier): OnePlus Buds 3 at $86.00 offers dual-driver setup (10mm + 6mm) with 49dB ANC, spatial audio, and seamless Android integration—perfect for OnePlus phone owners and Android power users seeking flagship performance.
- Value Champion: At current prices, the EarFun Air Pro 4 ($53.19) offers the best price-to-performance ratio with comprehensive flagship features. For absolute budget seekers, the CMF Buds Pro 2 ($47.00) and Anker P40i ($41.99) deliver incredible value. For audiophiles prioritizing sound quality, Nothing Ear (a) ($59.00) provides premium audio at mid-range pricing.
10. Brand Reputation & Support
After-sale support matters for longevity:
- Warranty Coverage: Check warranty length (typically 1 year) and what's covered.
- Firmware Updates: Brands like Sony and Nothing regularly release improvements.
- Customer Service: Research brand reputation for handling issues and replacements.
- Availability: Ensure replacement ear tips and accessories are readily available.
- Community Support: Active user communities provide troubleshooting help and tips.
Final Buying Tip
Read recent user reviews (last 3-6 months) on multiple platforms. Early reviews may not reflect firmware improvements or long-term durability. YouTube reviews offer real-world sound comparisons, while written reviews provide detailed technical analysis.
Our Final Recommendations
After extensive testing, here are our curated picks based on different user profiles and priorities. Choose the one that best matches your needs:
Best Overall
EarFun Air Pro 4 - The complete package with 50dB ANC, LDAC support, 45-hour battery, and wireless charging. Best all-rounder for most users seeking flagship features at budget prices.
Best Value
CMF Buds Pro 2 - Unbeatable at $50 with 50dB ANC, LDAC, customizable design, and smart dial controls. Perfect for budget-conscious buyers who refuse to compromise.
Best for Bass
Anker Soundcore P40i - Bass lovers' dream with BassUp 2.0 technology, 60-hour battery, and 22 EQ presets. Ideal for EDM, hip-hop, and electronic music enthusiasts.
Best Sound Quality
Nothing Ear (a) - Teenage Engineering tuning delivers audiophile-grade balanced sound with unique transparent design. Perfect for music purists and design enthusiasts.
Best for Android
OnePlus Buds 3 - Dual-driver setup, 49dB ANC, Google Spatial Audio, and seamless Android integration. Optimal choice for OnePlus phone owners and Android power users.
Best for Apple
Beats Solo Buds - H1 chip magic with instant pairing, Find My support, and 18-hour battery. Simple, reliable choice for iPhone users who prioritize ecosystem integration.
Best All-Day Comfort
Sony WF-C700N - Ultra-lightweight 4.6g design, V1 processor intelligence, and legendary Sony reliability. Perfect for professionals wearing earbuds throughout the workday.
Best Battery Life
Anker Soundcore P40i - Incredible 60-hour total battery life means charging once a month. Ideal for travelers and users who forget to charge regularly.
The Verdict
With flagship-level 50dB ANC, LDAC, and wireless charging, the EarFun Air Pro 4 ($53.19) offers the best value overall. Those on a tight budget should purchase the Anker P40i ($41.99) for its powerful bass and 60-hour battery, or the CMF Buds Pro 2 ($47.00) for unparalleled features under $50. The Nothing Ear (a) ($59.00) with Teenage Engineering tuning will appeal to audiophiles. Android fans should opt for the OnePlus Buds 3 ($86.00) for superior dual-driver performance, while Apple users can enjoy seamless integration with the Beats Solo Buds ($69.95). All of these options, which range in price from $42 to $86, are well worth it.