Finding wireless earbuds that deliver strong sound quality, active noise cancellation, and long-term comfort without exceeding a $100 budget is possible in 2025. Several models stand out for their balance of features, battery life, and value. Here are five options that consistently perform above expectations for their price range.
1. Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC — Best Overall
The Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC lead the list with their combination of sound customization, effective noise cancellation, and long battery life. The ANC blocks out ambient sounds during commutes and in busy environments with surprising efficiency for the price.
The sound profile is energetic with a bass emphasis that can be adjusted through the companion app’s 8-band equalizer. This level of fine-tuning is rare in budget earbuds and allows listeners to adapt the audio to different genres or personal preference. Battery performance reaches nearly 10 hours per charge with ANC active, making them suitable for extended listening sessions without interruption.
While microphone clarity in noisy areas is average, the overall comfort, fit, and feature set make the Liberty 4 NC an easy recommendation for most users seeking an all-around performer under $100.
2. EarFun Air Pro 4 — Excellent Sound and Features
The EarFun Air Pro 4 offer impressive audio quality supported by high-resolution codecs such as aptX Lossless and LDAC. This gives Android users a clear advantage in audio fidelity, offering richer detail than standard Bluetooth codecs. Out of the box, the sound signature is balanced, and further adjustments are available through the EarFun app.
Their ANC performs well for both commuting and indoor environments, and the lightweight build ensures long-term comfort. The earbuds’ touch controls can be overly responsive at times, but the overall design remains functional for everyday use. Battery life holds up well for day-to-day listening, and the combination of codec support, sound tuning, and effective noise cancellation positions them as a strong choice for audio-focused buyers.
3. Anker Soundcore Space A40 — Feature-Packed and Comfortable
The Anker Soundcore Space A40 provide an appealing mix of comfort and customization. These earbuds support the LDAC codec for higher-bitrate streaming and include 22 EQ presets within the companion app. Such variety allows users to switch between profiles quickly depending on content type.
The ANC is capable, though not the strongest in this list, yet it remains effective for most urban and indoor settings. Multiple ear tip sizes ensure a secure fit, and the lightweight design prevents fatigue during longer listening sessions. The Space A40 appeal to those who value extensive tuning options without compromising wearability.
4. CMF Buds 2 Plus — Superior Sound and Battery Life
The CMF Buds 2 Plus from Nothing’s sub-brand offer refined sound quality paired with exceptional endurance. Audio output is detailed and clear, and personal adjustments can be made through their app.
With ANC off, the earbuds can reach an impressive 14 hours of playback on a single charge. Their noise cancellation is especially effective against low-frequency background noise, making them suitable for travel and office use. One change from the previous generation is the absence of the “Smart Dial” feature on the case, which provided quick volume and track adjustments. Even without this, the CMF Buds 2 Plus remain a standout choice for those prioritizing battery longevity and high-quality audio under $100.
5. OnePlus Buds 3 — Booming Bass and Solid All-Around Performance
The OnePlus Buds 3 cater to listeners who prefer a bass-forward sound profile. Their dual-driver design produces deep, impactful lows while retaining clarity in mids and highs. Adjustments to the sound signature are available via the in-app EQ, offering flexibility for different styles of music.
The fit is secure and comfortable, allowing for active use during workouts or commutes. While their ANC falls short of the strongest performers here, call quality is notably clear for this price segment. With customizable controls and durable construction, the OnePlus Buds 3 suit those seeking powerful bass without sacrificing versatility.
Key Takeaways for Choosing Under-$100 Earbuds
- Audio Customization: Models like the Liberty 4 NC and Space A40 offer deep EQ control, giving listeners the freedom to tailor sound profiles.
- Battery Life: The CMF Buds 2 Plus excel in endurance, which benefits those who often listen for long stretches without charging.
- Codec Support: For users streaming high-resolution audio, options such as the EarFun Air Pro 4 and Space A40 with LDAC or aptX Lossless support stand out.
- Comfort and Fit: Lightweight builds and multiple ear tip options make extended listening more comfortable, as seen in the Space A40 and Liberty 4 NC.
- Noise Cancellation: While not all models have equal ANC strength, every pick here offers enough reduction to make a difference in daily listening environments.
Each of these earbuds demonstrates that spending less than $100 does not mean compromising on features that matter most: sound quality, comfort, and functionality. By focusing on what fits your listening habits and priorities, it is possible to find a pair that feels built for you without exceeding budget limits.
