Best affordable Bluetooth earbuds
Finding the best Bluetooth earbuds can sometimes take a toll on a person’s wallet, but to get good sound quality, it shouldn’t have to. Finding the right Bluetooth earbuds with quality sound and any other features you may want, like a high waterproof rating, stereo and mono modes, microphone quality and more.
Whatever you’re looking for in Bluetooth earbuds, there’s almost certainly an option that fits within your budget. If you prefer exercising with your earbuds, for instance, you may want to look for a pair that is waterproof-rated IPX7 or IPX8, or those with a wraparound cable design that will stay on a little better.
What to look for in Bluetooth earbuds
Waterproof rating
Especially for those that plan to exercise or spend time outdoors with their Bluetooth earbuds, finding those that are rated for water resistance or as waterproof can be especially helpful. Anything rated IPX5 and above is rated for, at least, lightly-pressurized water exposure. Most earbuds are not rated as dustproof, but at the max waterproof rating, IPX8-rated earbuds can be submerged into water of over 1 meter deep for up to 30 minutes.
Charging case
Most Bluetooth earbuds now include a charging case, which can significantly increase the length of time a pair of headphones will run. While many earbuds offer between 3 and 5 hours of playtime on a single charge, those with a charging case can be charged intermittently, sometimes amounting to as many as 40- or 50-hours total playtime before the case needs to be charged too.
Earbud fit
While many prefer the classic plastic feel of their earbuds, others that have more difficulty getting them to fit sometimes prefer models that feature silicone tips, which form in a variety of shapes and sizes.
Microphone and mono or stereo/binaural modes
Fortunately, most Bluetooth headphones today offer a microphone for phone conversations and voice commands. In addition, even budget Bluetooth earbuds typically feature the ability to listen to audio in either stereo modes with both earbuds, sometimes called binaural mode, or in a mono mode with just one headphone.
Best cheap Bluetooth earbuds
HWCONA Retro Leather Bluetooth Wireless Earbuds: available at Amazon
Not only are they super elegant and stylish with their retro faux-leather charging case, but these IPX8-waterproof Bluetooth earbuds are affordable and sound great. The waterproof design is sweat-proof for working out and water submersible in up to 1-meter-deep water for a limited time.
VEATOOL Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds: available at Amazon
These Bluetooth earbuds are more expensive than some models, but their comfortable ear hooks are perfect for those who have trouble finding the right fit. They feature binaural or stereo modes for phone calls, music, podcasts and more, as well as up to 48 hours of cyclical playtime.
Otium Wraparound Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds: available at Amazon
If you plan to exercise or perform physical activity with their earbuds, you’ll appreciate the wrap-around design connecting each earbud and comfortable ear hooks for improved fit. The Bluetooth connection works at up to 30 feet away from the source, and replacement ear tips are included.
Slitinto Black Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds: available at Amazon
With a sleek black design and a useful charging case, these earbuds are one of the best pairs out there with a mid-range price tag. The earbuds have no silicone tips and are IPX7 waterproof rated, and the digital charge indicator is a convenient way to view charge level without connecting to Bluetooth.
AMZSMT White True Wireless Earbuds: available at Amazon
AMZSMT’s glossy white earbuds come with a charging case, 40 hours of cyclical playtime and force touch buttons for controlling your music’s volume and playback. The charging case includes a three-light charge indicator, and the earbuds feature a built-in microphone and IPX5 waterproof rating.
Lasuney IPX7 Waterproof Bluetooth Earbuds with Charging Case: available at Amazon
These waterproof headphones are not only inexpensive, but they also offer a simple, matte black look, a built-in microphone and excellent audio quality given the price. The subtle charge indicator lights are useful, and the IPX7 waterproof rating makes them well-suited to working out or listening by the poolside.
SENSO Bluetooth Earphones: available at Amazon
Linked with a behind-the-neck cable, these earbuds feature impressive HD audio and are supported by reliable customer service. The earloops make it easy to work out while listening to music without fear of losing your earbuds, and the active noise cancellation allows for isolated listening.
Treblab XR700 PRO Wireless Earbuds: available at Amazon
These bass-boosting earbuds with flexible earbuds fit most people comfortably and feature 5.0 Bluetooth connectivity and an IPX7 waterproof rating. Customers like the adjustable design and impressive sound and microphone quality.
Boltune Wireless Earphones: available at Amazon
With a built-in mic and in-line audio controls, these earbuds work well for phone calls and offer IPX7 waterproof protection. The 10-millimeter drivers produce excellent sound quality, and the impressive battery life makes these a good pair for long commutes.
Skullcandy Sesh Evo True Wireless Earbuds: available at Amazon
Despite the brand name, these earbuds offer a great value with their true wireless design and long battery life of the charge case. The lightweight design is comfortable, and customers are impressed with the range of the earbuds.
Anker Soundcore Life P2 True Wireless Earbuds: available at Amazon
The charge case of these true wireless earbuds makes for a total listening time of 40 hours, and the single earbud feature switches either earbud to mono. The HD sound quality is impressive, though there are some connectivity issues.
TOZO T12 Wireless Earbuds: available at Amazon
Though there are cheaper options, these flashy earbuds feature an IPX8 waterproof rating for an extremely durable design, and the charge case features a bright display for checking the battery level. The in-ear design is comfortable for most, and the 10-millimeter drivers produce rich bass and crisp highs.
Zachary Visconti is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money
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