Finding the right pair of wireless earbuds under $100 can be tricky. There are countless brands claiming to offer premium sound and strong performance, but very few actually deliver on those promises. Communities on Reddit like r/headphones, r/budgetaudiophile, and r/earbuds are filled with honest users who share real experiences, helping others figure out which earbuds are actually worth buying.
In 2025, budget earbuds have improved a lot. You no longer need to spend over $200 to get good noise cancellation, clear vocals, or reliable connectivity. Many affordable earbuds now include hybrid active noise cancellation, multipoint pairing, long battery life, and strong call quality, features that were once available only in premium models.
The earbuds mentioned below are not random Amazon bestsellers. Each one has been tested and discussed by real Reddit users who use them every day for commuting, workouts, gaming, and music. After analyzing hundreds of Reddit posts and real user feedback, we picked the 8 best earbuds under $100 that actually provide great value, comfort, and performance.
If you are tired of overhyped marketing and want something that truly sounds great and lasts, this list is made for you.
1️⃣ Soundcore P40i – The Most Balanced Budget Earbuds
Reddit users describe the Soundcore P40i as “the perfect middle ground” not too pricey, not too basic. It’s popular for its hybrid ANC, powerful bass, and crystal-clear midrange that makes both music and podcasts sound natural. Whether you’re commuting, working, or gaming casually, these earbuds perform consistently.
On r/headphones, users often praise its multi-device pairing and long battery life. You can get up to 12 hours of playback on a single charge, and the compact case extends that massively. The Soundcore app also allows EQ customization, so you can tweak the sound exactly how you like it.
The build feels premium, the fit is secure, and connectivity remains stable even when switching between devices. Overall, these earbuds feel like they belong in a higher price category.
Pros: Long battery life, strong ANC, customizable EQ, stable Bluetooth.
Cons: Charging case is slightly bulky.
2️⃣ TOZO T20 – The Everyday Performer
The TOZO T20 is a favorite among casual listeners and gym-goers. Redditors love its clean, balanced sound profile and comfortable fit for long listening sessions. It delivers surprisingly strong bass for small drivers and doesn’t distort even at higher volumes.
The IPX8 water resistance makes it perfect for workouts and outdoor use, while Bluetooth 5.3 ensures fast pairing and low-latency performance. Users also appreciate the touch controls and wireless charging support something rare in this price segment.
On r/Android and r/TOZO, people frequently mention how reliable these are for calls and everyday use. They’re not feature-heavy like premium models, but everything they do, they do well.
Pros: Waterproof design, wireless charging, stable connection.
Cons: Lacks advanced ANC or app-based EQ.
3️⃣ JLab Epic Air ANC – Feature-Packed and Reliable
The JLab Epic Air ANC is an underdog favorite on Reddit offering true ANC, dual connect mode, and movie mode for improved sync with video content. The sound signature leans slightly bass-heavy, but with custom EQ settings, you can tune it to your liking using the JLab app.
Reddit users on r/JLabAudio say they’re perfect for people who want “a feature-rich experience under $100.” The earbuds deliver around 10 hours of playback per charge, and the case easily doubles that. ANC performance isn’t Bose-level but still impressive for the category.
They’re ideal for office users or students who want strong connectivity, decent mic clarity, and comfortable all-day wear without overspending.
Pros: Strong ANC, app customization, long battery life.
Cons: Charging case is large and not pocket-friendly.
4️⃣ OnePlus Nord Buds 2 – The Android Favorite
OnePlus Nord Buds 2 are often called the “Android sweet spot” on r/Android threads. They feature 12.4mm titanium drivers, producing deep bass and lively vocals that make pop and EDM tracks shine.
Users appreciate the fast charging and Dolby Atmos support, which enhances spatial sound when paired with compatible phones. The AI noise reduction during calls also keeps your voice clear even in busy environments.
Design-wise, the buds are lightweight, comfortable, and simple to use. While there’s no wireless charging, the overall audio experience makes them one of the best daily drivers under $100.
Pros: Great bass, Dolby Atmos support, clear calls.
Cons: No wireless charging, average ANC.
5️⃣ EarFun Air Pro 3 – Premium Features, Budget Price
If you want premium performance without premium pricing, EarFun Air Pro 3 is the Reddit community’s go-to choice. These earbuds use Qualcomm’s aptX Adaptive codec, delivering detailed, low-latency audio and excellent clarity for music, calls, and even light gaming.
Redditors on r/headphones highlight how well the ANC works for the price, effectively cutting down background chatter and low-frequency hums. The battery lasts an impressive 45 hours with the case, and Bluetooth 5.3 keeps connections stable.
They also support multipoint pairing, so you can switch between phone and laptop effortlessly. EarFun nails the basics and still manages to add extra polish with touch controls, clear microphones, and comfortable ergonomics.
Pros: aptX Adaptive, great ANC, multipoint connection.
Cons: Slightly large eartips may not suit small ears.
6️⃣ SoundPEATS Capsule3 Pro – Great Audio with LDAC Support
The SoundPEATS Capsule3 Pro punches way above its weight. With LDAC codec support, you get high-resolution audio that’s rare in this range. The 12mm drivers provide punchy bass, smooth mids, and crisp highs that appeal to both casual listeners and audiophiles on a budget.
On r/budgetaudiophile, many users note how comfortable they are, even during long listening sessions. The ANC and transparency modes are effective for daily use, though not top-tier. Still, it’s the overall balance of sound, comfort, and build quality that makes these a standout pick.
The design feels sleek, the case is small, and the build quality inspires confidence. For anyone who values pure audio performance over gimmicks, the Capsule3 Pro is a hidden gem.
Pros: LDAC high-res audio, balanced sound, compact design.
Cons: ANC is decent but not strong.
7️⃣ Nothing Ear (Stick) – Style Meets Substance
The Nothing Ear (Stick) brings a minimalist approach to wireless earbuds. Their transparent design and cylindrical case instantly stand out but they’re not just about looks. Reddit users say these earbuds deliver a surprisingly natural and open sound that’s perfect for those who don’t like heavy bass.
Their open-fit design makes them extremely comfortable for long hours of use. They’re ideal for people who prefer situational awareness walking, working, or casual listening. While there’s no ANC, the lightweight form and refined sound signature make them perfect for everyday users who value simplicity.
Reddit threads on r/NothingTech often highlight their durability and solid mic quality. They might not please bassheads, but for neutral, stylish listening, they’re a joy.
Pros: Unique transparent design, balanced sound, very comfortable.
Cons: No ANC, not ideal for noisy environments.
8️⃣ Redmi Buds 5 Pro – Surprisingly Premium Experience
The Redmi Buds 5 Pro round off the list as one of the most impressive value options on Reddit. They offer dual dynamic drivers and Hi-Res Audio certification, producing rich, layered sound that easily beats most budget competitors.
Reddit users appreciate the effective ANC, multi-device connectivity, and clear call quality, especially for hybrid workers or commuters. The build is sleek, the case feels sturdy, and the earbuds hold a comfortable fit even after hours of wear.
The only real drawback is that some features work best within Xiaomi’s ecosystem, but even without that, these buds deliver top-notch value.
Pros: Dual drivers, strong ANC, multi-device pairing.
Cons: Limited app features on non-MIUI phones.
🔸 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are budget earbuds under $100 really worth buying?
Absolutely. Many earbuds under $100 now offer features that were once found only in premium models — like active noise cancellation (ANC), multi-device pairing, and long battery life. Reddit users often mention that brands like Soundcore, EarFun, and TOZO deliver 80–90% of the premium experience at less than half the price.
2. Which earbuds under $100 have the best noise cancellation?
According to multiple Reddit threads on r/headphones and r/budgetaudiophile, the EarFun Air Pro 3 and Soundcore P40i provide some of the most effective ANC in this price range. While they don’t match Bose or Sony levels, they’re surprisingly good for daily use, commutes, and light travel.
3. Are cheap earbuds good for phone calls and Zoom meetings?
Yes, especially newer models with 4–6 mics and AI noise reduction. JLab Epic Air ANC and OnePlus Nord Buds 2 are popular among Reddit users working from home or attending online classes. Always check for “ENC” or “AI call noise reduction” in specs if call quality matters most to you.
4. Which earbuds are best for workouts or running?
Look for IPX5 or higher water resistance and a secure fit. TOZO T20 and SoundPEATS Capsule3 Pro are often recommended on r/fitness and r/running for their stability, sweat resistance, and lightweight build.
5. Do budget earbuds support spatial or 3D audio?
Some do! For example, Redmi Buds 5 Pro and OnePlus Nord Buds 2 support spatial sound modes compatible with Android and certain streaming apps. It’s not as immersive as high-end models, but you’ll still notice a wider soundstage.
6. Are Nothing Ear (Stick) or open-fit earbuds good for outdoor use?
Yes, if you prefer hearing your surroundings — like traffic or people talking. However, open-fit designs leak sound and have weaker bass, so they’re not ideal for noisy environments or flights. Reddit users recommend pairing them with music apps that allow bass boost for better balance.
7. What’s the biggest difference between premium and sub-$100 earbuds?
Mostly in fine-tuned audio quality, ANC performance, and codec support. Premium models like Bose or Sony offer deeper sound staging, better microphones, and adaptive noise control. But in daily use, mid-tier models like EarFun Air Pro 3 and Soundcore P40i feel 80% as good — at a fraction of the price.
8. How long do budget earbuds usually last?
Most quality models last around 2–3 years with proper care. Avoid overcharging, store them in their case, and keep them away from moisture when not IP-rated. Reddit users also recommend cleaning ear tips regularly to maintain sound clarity.
9. Are there any truly “Reddit favorite” earbuds under $100?
Yes — based on multiple community threads, the EarFun Air Pro 3, Soundcore P40i, and TOZO T20 consistently receive top votes. Users appreciate their performance, reliability, and customer service compared to many generic brands on Amazon.
10. Should I buy budget earbuds from Amazon or directly from the brand website?
If you want easy returns and quick shipping, Amazon is fine. But if you want warranty support and exclusive firmware updates, buying directly from brands like Soundcore or EarFun is often better. Many Reddit users mention faster response times when contacting the brand directly.