The Budget Earbud Revolution
Sub-$100 earbuds in 2026 feature ANC, spatial audio, and multipoint Bluetooth that cost $250 two years ago. We tested six models across sound, ANC, battery, calls, and durability.
1. Nothing Ear (a) 2
11mm drivers deliver punchy bass without muddy mids. 25dB ANC effective for commutes. Wireless charging case. Three mics with AI noise reduction for excellent calls.
- Price: $79
- Battery: 7h / 32h with case
- Codec: LDAC, AAC, SBC
2. Anker Soundcore Liberty 5
LDAC hi-res audio, 40dB ANC (surprisingly deep), 10-hour battery. HearID creates personalized EQ from your hearing profile.
3. Samsung Galaxy Buds FE 2
Best for Android with seamless pairing and spatial audio. Wingtip design for secure workout fit. Balanced sound with slight bass emphasis.
4. JLab Go Air Pop 3
At $30, remarkable value. No ANC but good sound with customizable EQ. 8-hour battery. Call quality the weak point.
5. EarFun Air Pro 4
$60 with ANC, wireless charging, aptX Adaptive, IPX5. V-shaped sound. 22dB ANC with natural transparency mode.
6. OnePlus Buds 4
Clean balanced sound. Effective ANC, 7-hour battery. Great OnePlus ecosystem integration. No wireless charging.
Our Picks
- Best overall: Nothing Ear (a) 2 at $79
- Best ANC: Anker Liberty 5 with 40dB at $80
- Budget: JLab Go Air Pop 3 at $30
- Workouts: Samsung Galaxy Buds FE 2
