Sure, they're small, but that doesn't mean earbuds are a purchase to be taken lightly.
You've probably been listening to music on the go since you were about 12. So you know that finding a good pair of earbuds is actually pretty tricky. (I've gone through more in my lifetime than I can count.)
And while picking up a $5 pair in the checkout line is easy enough, you know you'll just be back again next month (or sooner) for a new pair because they stopped working.
Does that mean all earbuds are crap? No way. It's simply not true that bass, noise cancellation, and crisp sound can only be found in fancy over-ear headphones. Some of usprefer our headphones to be a little more inconspicuous and portable.
Since it's always good to get a personal recommendation, we did some research and pulled out the best earbuds on Amazon, based on actual customer reviews. We looked at which products have the most reviews and highest star ratings to compile this list, which features the earbuds that the greatest numbers of people have been happiest with.
We've also split them into categories: the ones you'll need a headphone jack or the beloved dongle for, the wireless Bluetooth earbuds that are still connected with a cord, and the truly wireless earbuds that are as discrete as you can get.
Whatever your preference and whatever your price range, you're sure to find some that don'tsuck.
Best wired earbuds
This is the headphone-jack kind you've used ever since your first Walkman (or iPod — kids these days!). There's no charging or dealing with dead earbuds, but iPhone users will have to choose between listening and charging.
IMAGE: PANASONIC
The Good
Ergo-fit bud that conforms to your ear • Noise cancellation is better than expected at this price
The Bad
Probably doesn't have the same sound quality as higher-end options
The Bottom Line
If you lose your earbuds a lot, or are just on a budget, these are highly-rated.1. Panasonic RP-HJE120-PPK In-Ear Stereo Earphones
If you're not looking for over-the-top sound features and just need a pair to get the job done, these are for you.
You shouldn't pick a pair of earbuds simply because of an attractive low price, but that's not to say that quality earbuds can't be 10 bucks. The Panasonic RP-HJE120-PPK In-Ear Stereo Earphones have a super comfy ergo-fit bud that's said to conform to the shape of your ear. If you're not looking for over-the-top sound features and just need a pair to get the job done, these are for you — though some customers also mention that their noise cancellation and bass clarity is pretty impressive for such a low price. Amazon customer JSmith writes:
"At first when I bought this earbuds I was skeptical because of the price. But out of all the earbuds I have owned (Beats, Sony, Skullcandy, etc.) These are by far my favorite because it is so reliable. After about a year, these other brands would give out. Ive had these earbuds for about 4 years. They've been dropped countless times and have even been in the washer and dryer. When i found them I thought for sure they were done for but they just keep working. Truly satisfied with this product."Overall, the Panasonic earbuds have a 4.2 out of 5 star rating, purchased by an insane almost 55,000 people. Plus, if you lose them or put them through the washing machine, you won't break the bank replacing them. Choose from 10 fun colors here, with prices starting at $9.99.
IMAGE: SYMPHONIZED
The Good
Made from genuine wood • Take phone calls • Highly-rated sound quality
The Bad
Not a lot of bad things to say!
The Bottom Line
Many reviewers express surprise that these stylish 'buds have such great sound quality at such a low price.2. Symphonized NRG 3.0 Wooden Headphones
These are just as functional as they are classy, handcrafted from genuine wood that offers up insane natural acoustics.
This pair gives off total "I smoke cigars and sit by the fireplace in a robe" vibes. The Symphonized NRG 3.0 Wooden Headphones are just as functional as they are classy, handcrafted from genuine wood that offers up insane natural acoustics. Deep bass and clear sound is also present, with multiple earbud sizes to seal out background nose. The colorful cord features buttons for volume control, voice commands, and phone calls. Basically, they're fancy AF and totally don't look like they're under 25 bucks — but they are. Amazon customer Timmaay26 writes:
"Wow. Just wow. For the price? Seriously? I was not expecting these to produce such well-balanced sound. My last pair were Soul by Ludacris, which did the job. However, I needed something more. I received far more than expected with these Symphonized NRG 3.0 earbuds. Again, I go back to price... ridiculously low for the quality of sound that comes from these."It's seriously hard to find a review that's not along the lines of "Wow, these should be more expensive." Overall, the Symphonized earbuds have a 4.3 out of 5 star rating, purchased by over 2,000 people. Choose from five colors and get yours here, with prices starting at $21.99.
IMAGE: SONY
The Good
Great bass and balance • Highly-rated fit
The Bad
Not a lot of bad things to say!
The Bottom Line
If you're looking for great sound quality at an affordable price, these could be it.3. Sony MDRXB50AP Extra Bass Earbud Headset
Bass this bumpin' is pretty hard to find in earbuds under $100, so if the audiophile in you cares about that, these are your pick.
At a slightly higher price point (but still a steal considering what they can do), the Sony MDRXB50AP Extra Bass Earbud Headset are ace. They have a similar look to the silver ones above but come in a few colors and are obviously Sony, if you care about big brand names. Interior neodymium magnets give them powerful, equal sound in each ear, and 12mm dome driver units (the metallic things on the earpiece) deliver bass that is truly extra. Bass that bumpin' is honestly pretty hard to find in earbuds under $100, so if the audiophile in you cares about that, these are your pick. Amazon user Machiventa writes:
"They fit perfectly in my ears, and stay in even when moving around/jogging. The included tips are thin and actually make a perfect seal. The sound of these right out of the box is incredible and got even better with several hours of use. I'm not an audiophile but know decent sound when I hear it. I've tried many brands over the years, and these are good too great IMO. I'm a bass head and the sound of these is pretty damn near perfect concerning the balance of bass, mids, and highs. The mids and highs aren't too recessed, and the bass isn't too boomy."Overall, the Sony Extra Bass earbuds have a 4.2 out of 5 star rating, purchased by over 3,000 people. They're regularly priced at $49.99, but we've seen them on sale numerous times for as low as $29.99. Get them in black, blue or red here.
IMAGE: BOSE
The Good
Tri-port tech provides strong bass • Sweat- and weather-resistant
The Bad
Pricey
The Bottom Line
Reviewers tend to say that the quality of sound and durability make these wired 'buds worth the price.4. Bose SoundSport In-Ear Headphones
Basically, you're getting sincerely awesome acoustics for such a tiny pair of headphones.
Where there's a "best earbuds" list, there's Bose. That's because Bose really knows quality — so even if they're a little more expensive, they're worth it. The Tri-port technology provides strong bass from three different ventilation holes and makes for crisp highs and natural-sounding lows. Basically, you're getting sincerely awesome acoustics for such a tiny pair of headphones. Bose also claims that they're sweat and weather resistant, so even the most extreme workouts won't make them fall out. Amazon customer Kelly writes:
"These earbuds are awesome. While you can't expect truly bombastic bass from such small "speakers", these actually do a really good job with bass, and the whole spectrum of sound. Extremely high quality, very comfortable. They stay in the ear very well. Yes, you pay more for Bose products - but that's because they're better. If you want truly high-quality sound in a small package, these earbuds are for you!"Overall, the Bose SoundSport Headphones have a 4.1 out of 5 star rating, purchased by nearly 3,000 people. Choose from five colors and get them for $99 here.
Bluetooth and wireless earbuds
If you're tired of untangling headphone cords every damn day or constantly losing your iPhone dongle, a pair of wireless earbuds may be more up your alley.
IMAGE: OTIUM
The Good
Sweatproof • Ear hook for extra security • Eight hours of listening on a charge
The Bad
Some reviews said they stopped working, but got free replacements
The Bottom Line
If you're willing to bet that your pair won't stop working after a few months, these could be an excellent deal.5. Otium Wireless Sport Headphones
Sweatproof and equipped with a comfortable ear hook to ensure security, these little guys are perfect for vigorous workouts.
Hey gym addicts: The Otium Wireless Sport Headphones just might be the workout headphones you've been waiting for. Sweatproof and equipped with a comfortable ear hook to ensure security, these little guys are perfect for vigorous workouts, running, biking, or anything in-between. The sound quality is also superb — their EDR technology basically means clear bass and no muddied sound, even at its loudest volume. (One guy said they're even comparable to Beats.) According to the listing, you can fit in eight hours of listening time on one full charge. Amazon customer Jack Relly writes:
"These blew the top of my head clean off. It's scary how nice these are. The price doesn't seem to match the item. This is totally confounding me. Under $20? Ok, what game is this? I almost wish I could find some huge flaw somewhere. I feel like some great company left some money on the table to benefit all of earbud mankind. These could easily fetch double the charge. Otium, thank you!!!!!!"Dang, Otium. Overall, they have a 3.8 out of 5 star rating, purchased by a whopping 8,000+ people. Some negative reviews claim that their pair stopped working within the first few months, but most mention that Otium sent them a replacement pair immediately. Choose from black or red and get them here, with prices starting at $19.97.
IMAGE: SOUNDPEATS
The Good
Sweatproof • Magnets keep them together • Good fit
The Bad
If you like an ear hook, you're out of luck here
The Bottom Line
Highly-rated sound and a convenient magnet make these a great choice.
Some people just don't like that over the ear hook. That's cool. The SoundPEATS Magnetic Bluetooth In-Ear Headphonesare an in-ear option for those big on headphones staying in place. They're equipped with a high-fidelity, detailed stereo sound and impressive bass for how small they are. All of that is packed into an ultra-lightweight design that will almost feel like you're not wearing anything. Built-in magnets allow the buds to stick together like a necklace for a more secure hold when they're not in use. These are also claimed to be sweatproof, another plus for gym-goers. Amazon customer Mac2298 writes:
"These are my favorite Bluetooth headphones ever! I've gone through at least half a dozen headphones in the last year trying to find the best affordable pair, and none have even come close to these SoundPeats. I liked them so much that when I lost my previous pair, I went ahead and bought them again! So many things about them that are amazing... the sound quality is superb for the price, they are as light as any non-bluetooth pair of earbuds are, the bluetooth connection is reliable and not delayed, the design is incredibly comfortable with a responsive remote exactly in the place you would want it, the battery life is better than average... I could go on, but I think it suffices to say that these are the best bluetooth headphones available at this price point."Overall, the SoundPEATS earbuds have a 4.1 out of 5 star rating, purchased by nearly 1,500 people. Get them in one of four colors here, with prices starting at $28.99.
IMAGE: PHAISER
The Good
Extremely good customer service • Great sound • Sweatproof
The Bad
Known to break sometimes, but with quick free replacement
The Bottom Line
There's a reason these wireless headphones are so popular - their sound quality is amazing for the price.7. Phaiser BHS-730 Bluetooth Headphones
These bad boys sport 8 mm speakers designed by Swiss audio engineers and are apparently approved by even the pickiest music lovers.
Another option for intense sound without an intense price are the Amazon's Choice Phaiser BHS-730 Bluetooth Headphones. These bad boys sport 8 mm speakers designed by Swiss audio engineers and are apparently approved by even the pickiest music lovers. The BHS-730 give the most robust sound and deepest bass of any Phaiser headphones, but the HD sound isn't all they can do. They're coated in Liquipel Nano Coating, making them sweatproof and strong enough to survive being dropped in water. Memory foam ear tips provide extra comfort and noise isolation. Amazon customer Y.A-P. writes:
"I could not be happier with these earbuds. I was looking for bluetooth earbuds with a microphone which would let me control my phone with my voice (Xiaomi Mi Max 2). I haven't been disappointed. They are very confortable for they are delivered with all sorts of sizes of in-ear rubbers (with and without the additional thingy which holds them in place even better). The response is very accurate (I have tried a whole lot of equalizing depending on the genre of music: from bassy to balanced) and they don't let much noise go through. I ended up buying a pair for my husband who is equally happy."Overall, the Phaiser BHS-730 headphones have a 4.2 out of 5 star rating, purchased by over 17,000 people. (Woah.) And, if you happen to have issues, previous buyers mention that Phaiser's customer service is out of this world. Choose from five colors and get them for $35.99 here.
Truly wireless earbuds
For those who are constantly on the go and really just can't be bothered with any cords whatsoever, 100% wireless earbuds are a game changer. This is a serious Men in Black look, y'all. Just make sure you don't lose them.
IMAGE: FOCUSPOWER
The Good
Tiny • Excellent battery life • 50-foot connection range
The Bad
Might take a while to get used to these tiny 'buds
The Bottom Line
If you want truly wire-free 'buds and don't want to spend a ton, try these out.8. FOCUSPOWER F10 Mini Bluetooth Earbuds
This borderline invisible pair of earbuds are the #1 best selling truly wire-free earbuds.
Starting off with a bang: This borderline invisible pair of earbuds are the #1 best selling FOCUSPOWER F10 Mini Bluetooth Earbuds. They're mini alright, and the smallest ones we've seen — perfect for those who want their headphones as unnoticeable as possible. (They may fall out a time or two before you get the positioning right, but what else can you expect from earbuds smaller than a coin?) Just snuggle these little beauties into your ear canal and call it a day, alright? The F10 earbuds have seriously impressive battery life as well. They're apparently able to last up to six or seven hours, depending on the volume. But we don't think you'll need full volume anyway, because according to the listing, the lithium accumulator gives full-volume sound at just 30 or 40%.Amazon customer Jon writes:
"It's rare that I leave a 5 star review, so trust me when I say this little guy deserves it! Let me start off by saying I own a pair of Bragi's Dash which retails for almost $300. This F10 was nearly able to replace it. Pro: Amazing quality for the price, dual device pairing actually works, small size yet holds true to its claimed run time, works in both ears which is a plus for me, no mediocre gimmicks like some other little buds, and absurdly long connection range - 50 feet!"Overall, the FOCUSPOWER earbuds have a 4.3 out of 5 star rating, purchased by over 6,000 people. Get yours in black for $25.99 here.
IMAGE: TREBLAB
The Good
Affordable • Stylish • Crisp sound
The Bad
Not the cheapest, but not the priciest either
The Bottom Line
If you're looking for style at a mid-range price, these could be the earbuds for you.9. TREBLAB X2 Bluetooth Earbuds with Beryllium Speakers
Multiple customers make it a point to talk about the unique, ultra-futuristic look of these earbuds, mentioning that they're constantly getting compliments.
Another slick choice are the TREBLAB X2 Bluetooth Earbuds with Beryllium Speakers. In this new and improved version of Treblab's first go, the company has perfected the X2's speakers with beryllium — an element found in stars that apparently makes the speed of sound 2.5 times faster than traditional speakers. This is as crisp and three-dimensional as you can get. (Cue the goosebumps.) Listen for five hours on one charge, and then use the portable charging dock and carrying case to get another five hours of juice. Multiple customers make it a point to talk about the unique, ultra-futuristic look of these earbuds, mentioning that they're constantly getting compliments. Amazon customer max writes:
"Let me tell you these are some serious wireless headphones guys.The sound is perfectly balanced with a stage right in front of your head. Just exquisite. I smiled when I saw the 3D audio remark but they weren’t kidding, the sound does sound three dimensional and hits you from all sides. The look the feel the weight, all perfect. All at fraction of the price. I don’t know how they can offer this quality for this much, but it is what it is. Great job on these bad boys Treblab!"Overall, the TREBLAB X2 earbuds have a 3.9 out of 5 star rating, purchased by over 600 people. Choose from black or white and get them for $69.95 here.
IMAGE: BOSE
The Good
Sweat-and weather-resistant • Excellent sound quality • Includes "find my buds" app feature
The Bad
Pricey
The Bottom Line
If you want the best wire-free option with loss-prevention tech, these could be worth the price tag.
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