Best Budget Earbuds for 2025: Cheap Wireless Picks
We tested budgeted real earbuds against five key criteria and compared models with similar styles and prices. These standards are design,,,,, Sound quality,,,,, feature,,,,, Voice Call Performance and value.
design
We evaluated not only the comfort of the earplug fit (ergonomics), but also the quality of their build and how well the controls were implemented. We also consider waterproof and dustproof ratings, which are especially important for the budget Earplugs and headphones you might take to the gym.
Sound quality
Even the earbuds on a budget still deliver excellent audio. We evaluate sound quality by listening to a playlist of music tracks and comparing earbuds to top-notch products within their price range. Sound characteristics such as bass definition, clarity, dynamic range, and headphone sound are key factors in our evaluation. Some of my test tracks include Spoon’s knocking door, God’s athletes don’t want to be normal, Doors hit me – Catch 3, Track Dirty Rat, Taylor Swift’s alert shit, JVKe’s Golden Hour and Drake’s blinds.
feature
Many budget earbuds aren’t full of features, but we did consider what extras are available on board. These include everything from noise frequency and transparent mode (ambient sound mode) to special sound modes to ear detection sensors that automatically pause music when you pull out your headphones.
Voice Call Performance
When we test voice call performance, we call on the noisy New York streets and evaluate how earbuds reduce background noise and how clearly the caller hears you. This is especially important for those who want cheaper earplugs tossed into their work bags. The best wireless earbuds for voice calls clearly pick up your voice while greatly reducing background noise. Onboard microphones, sophisticated noise reduction algorithms and voice accelerometers, when they bring all factors into call quality. Plus, the vertebral ketone feature allows you to hear your own voice while chatting with noise-isolated buds, helping you avoid talking loudly. If you are looking for a wider range of headphones that fit this bill, check out our overview Best earbuds for making phone calls.
value
In assessing the strength of the earbuds for all these criteria and compared to other models in the price category, we determined the strength of the earbuds and the value that the buds could provide. Since many of these models fall into a similar price range, we further break the price category to ensure they match properly. The feature-packed headphones that sound great provide a big sensation for your money making, earning the highest score in this category.
Our critic David Carnoy tests voice performances on the noisy streets of New York.
