The Finest Wi-fi Earbuds Underneath $50 of 2023

How We Tested Earbuds

Since 2021, we’ve been turning on and tuning in to the best quality earbuds we can get our mitts on without selling the farm to get them. Like most tech, the limits to high-quality audio aren’t as much tethered to dollar signs as it is to the quest for the best of the best, but often, we just need a set of ‘buds that’ll keep up with our walk to work or run in the afternoon.

We tested dozens of earbuds to determine the highest quality affordable options for this list. We selected contenders based on popularity, online reviews, and recommendations from across the GearJunkie team. Once we had compiled a pile of candidates, we carefully assessed comfort, sound quality, and durability.

The tests were fairly straightforward. A drop from a second-story window, an extended shower, and several hours in the freezer. All of these have real-world applications, especially if you live in a harsher climate. Over several days’ worth of ear time and a gym session for each, we got a pretty clear idea of their sonic strengths and weaknesses.

All of the products on this list cleared the hurdles. For $50 or less, our recommendations are the best available.

It’s worth noting that earbuds can get much more expensive than those on this list. If you want the all-around best headphones for exercise, plan to spend a little more.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose Affordable Earbuds

If you’re searching for a pair of reliable headphones for less than $50, there are a handful of key variables to keep in mind. Ultimately, you aren’t going to find high-performance options in this price range. Still, if you understand the basics of sound quality, battery life, and waterproofing, you can make an informed purchase and get the best bang for your buck.

Sound Quality

Like full-size speakers, earbuds distort different parts of the audio spectrum. No two pairs of earbuds will sound the same. While there are several objective factors that separate high-quality and low-quality sound, personal preference is perhaps the most important consideration. Some folks like a bassy sound balance, while others prefer a heavier treble.

Most of the earbuds on this list aren’t truly noise-canceling, save for the Anker Soundcore Life A3i Earbuds, which are certainly an outlier at this price point, and effective noise cancellation is typically a feature of more expensive options. Still, many users prefer to be able to hear their surroundings while listening to music or podcasts. Some earbuds on this list will simply muffle — but not cancel — outside noise, which comes in handy — especially in loud environments.

Ultimately, many users find that they do not need everyday earbuds with elite sound quality. For most users, a few sonic flaws are reasonable — especially if you want to spend $50 or less.

Battery Life and Charging

Like all wireless devices, earbuds need to be charged from time to time. When you’re in the middle of a flight or bike ride, you certainly don’t want your headphones to suddenly die. For this reason, it’s worth seeking headphones with reasonable battery life and a quality charging case.

The battery life of headphones depends on various factors including surrounding air temperature and audio volume. To get the maximum life out of your fully charged headphones, keep the volume in the low to mid-range.

In 2023, a good pair of affordable earbuds may last up to 5 or 6 hours on a single charge. In our experience, earbuds tend to die a little sooner than the manufacturer claims. Most pairs come with a nifty charging case that allows you to juice up the headphones on the go. Most fully charged cases will charge the earbuds 2-5 times before they need to be plugged into an outlet.

Call Quality

Most high-quality workout headphones are able to accept and manage quick phone calls. A built-in microphone, user-friendly controls, and decent sound quality are essential for taking calls via your headphones.

These days, dual and quad mic technology has dramatically improved call quality — even on cheap earbuds.

However, if you plan to use your ‘buds for long work calls, a $20 pair might not be the best choice.

Waterproofing and Durability

If you’re going to be wearing earbuds while working out, durability and a reasonable degree of water resistance are crucial. If your exercise regimen includes outdoor activities such as running, cycling, or rowing, we recommend earbuds with a solid waterproof rating. Even if you don’t plan on being out in the rain, it’s wise to be prepared.

Though all of the headphones on this list are fairly durable, some will withstand wear and tear better than others. Though cheap earbuds are easy on the wallet, there is certainly a relationship between price and build quality.

In order to handle the inevitable perspiration that occurs during exercise, earbuds need to be reasonably water-resistant. Many options come with a water resistance IP rating that serves as a helpful guide.

Basically, headphones exist on a spectrum from IPX1 to IPX9. IPX1 headphones should be able to handle sweat and occasional small drops of light rain. IPX9 headphones can withstand a direct stream of hot water from a pressure nozzle. The IPX rating system can feel a little confusing, and we recommend you don’t think too hard about it.

Simply put, headphones with any IPX rating should be able to handle the demands of any dry-land form of exercise. If you plan to use your earbuds in wet environments — like a scullboat or a paddleboard — we recommend a higher IPX rating.

Frequently Asked Questions