5 Best Wireless Earbuds Under $100 That Actually Deliver Quality and Comfort
5 Best Wireless Earbuds Under $100 That Actually Deliver Quality and Comfort
You don’t need to spend hundreds to get great sound, active noise cancellation, and solid battery life. Today’s market is packed with affordable wireless earbuds that rival premium brands. Here are five of the best options under $100 that blend performance, comfort, and value.
1. Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 – Best Overall
The Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC is a powerhouse of features at an affordable price. With adaptive active noise cancellation (ANC), LDAC support for high-resolution audio, and up to 10 hours of playtime on a single charge, these earbuds punch well above their price point.
Key Features:
- Adaptive ANC 2.0 that adjusts to your environment
- Multipoint Bluetooth pairing (connect two devices at once)
- LDAC high-fidelity audio support
- 10 hours of battery life (50 hours with case)
- Customizable EQ via the Soundcore app
Price: $99.99
Best For: Audiophiles who want premium features at a mid-range price.
2. Samsung Galaxy Buds FE – Best for Android Users
The Galaxy Buds FE bring many premium Samsung features to a lower price range. They offer a balanced, crisp sound, easy one-tap pairing with Samsung devices, and active noise cancellation. The fit is secure and comfortable for long listening sessions.
Key Features:
- Active noise cancellation
- Seamless connection with Galaxy phones
- Touch controls for calls, playback, and ANC
- Up to 8.5 hours of playback per charge (30 hours with case)
Price: $69.99
Best For: Android users who want strong performance and great integration with Galaxy devices.
3. Sony WF-C510 – Best for Everyday Use
The Sony WF-C510 earbuds are compact, lightweight, and ideal for casual use. While they don’t feature ANC, their sound quality, build, and app customization make them an excellent daily driver. The open design helps with awareness during outdoor use.
Key Features:
- Balanced, rich audio with Sony’s Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE)
- Long 15-hour total battery life
- Reliable connection and low latency
- Lightweight, open-fit design for comfort
Price: $49.99
Best For: Commuters, students, and casual listeners.
4. JLab Go Pop ANC – Best Budget Noise Cancelling Option
JLab has built a reputation for delivering solid audio gear at rock-bottom prices. The JLab Go Pop ANC earbuds bring active noise cancellation and transparency mode for under $30. The customizable EQ modes (JLab Signature, Balanced, Bass Boost) make them surprisingly versatile.
Key Features:
- Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode
- Bluetooth 5.3 for stable connection
- Dual Connect (use either earbud independently)
- 8+ hours battery (32 hours with case)
Price: $20.89
Best For: Budget-conscious buyers who still want ANC.
5. JBL Vibe Beam 2 – Best for Bass Lovers
The JBL Vibe Beam 2 combines punchy bass with solid build quality. These earbuds come with JBL’s Deep Bass Sound profile and ergonomic tips for comfort. The long battery life and IPX4 water resistance make them great for workouts and everyday use.
Key Features:
- JBL Deep Bass Sound
- IPX4 sweat and water resistance
- Voice assistant compatibility
- Up to 8 hours playback (24 hours with case)
Price: $39.95
Best For: Bass enthusiasts and fitness users.
Comparison Table
| Earbuds | Best For | Noise Cancellation | Battery Life | App Support | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 | All-around performance | Adaptive ANC | 10 hrs (50 w/case) | Yes | $89.99 |
| Samsung Galaxy Buds FE | Android users | ANC | 8.5 hrs (30 w/case) | Yes | $69.99 |
| Sony WF-C510 | Everyday use | No | 15 hrs total | Yes | $49.99 |
| JLab Go Pop ANC | Budget pick | ANC | 8 hrs (32 w/case) | No | $20.89 |
| JBL Vibe Beam 2 | Bass lovers | Passive | 8 hrs (24 w/case) | Limited | $39.95 |
Pro Tips for Choosing Earbuds Under $100
- Check codec support: AAC or LDAC means better audio clarity and lower latency.
- Battery life matters: Look for at least 6–8 hours per charge.
- Prioritize fit: A snug seal improves both comfort and sound quality.
- Consider brand updates: Reputable brands push firmware updates that fix bugs and improve sound.
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FAQs
Q: Are earbuds under $100 worth it?
A: Yes. With improvements in battery life and ANC, brands like Anker, JLab, and Samsung now offer premium sound quality for under $100.
Q: Do budget earbuds have good microphones?
A: Many do. Models like the Liberty 4 and Galaxy Buds FE include multiple mics and AI noise reduction for clear calls.
Q: Can I use these for workouts?
A: Yes, look for models with IPX4 or higher water resistance such as the JBL Vibe Beam 2 or JLab Go Pop ANC.
Q: Which earbuds have the longest battery life?
A: The Sony WF-C510 and Anker Liberty 4 offer the best endurance, lasting up to 15 and 50 hours respectively (with charging cases).
