Finding peace and quiet in a noisy world can feel like a luxury, especially when you’re on a budget. Fortunately, the market for noise-cancelling earbuds has exploded, offering fantastic options without breaking the bank. If you’re tired of battling the roar of traffic, the drone of airplane engines, or the chatter of coworkers, you’re in luck. This article dives deep into the best noise-cancelling earbuds you can snag for under $100, exploring features, performance, and what to expect from budget-friendly options.
| Feature | Importance for Noise-Cancelling Earbuds | Considerations for Budget Options |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) | Primary feature for blocking external noise. | May not be as powerful as premium options; check user reviews for effectiveness in various environments. |
| Transparency Mode | Allows you to hear surrounding sounds without removing earbuds. | Not always included in budget options, but a valuable feature for safety and awareness. |
| Sound Quality | Clarity and richness of audio playback. | May not offer the same fidelity as higher-end earbuds but should still provide enjoyable listening. |
| Battery Life | How long the earbuds last on a single charge. | Pay attention to both playtime with ANC on and off. |
| Comfort and Fit | How comfortably the earbuds sit in your ears for extended wear. | Look for options with multiple ear tip sizes. |
| Build Quality and Durability | How well the earbuds are made and their resistance to wear and tear. | Expect plastic materials at this price point; check for warranty and user reviews on durability. |
| Microphone Quality | Clarity of your voice during calls. | May not be as robust as more expensive models, but still usable. |
| Bluetooth Version | Affects connection stability and range. | Bluetooth 5.0 or higher is preferable. |
| Water Resistance | How well they hold up to sweat and light rain. | IPX4 or higher is recommended for workouts. |
| Price | The overall cost of the earbuds. | Crucial consideration; aim for the best value within your budget. |
Understanding Noise Cancellation Technology
Before we dive into specific models, let’s briefly discuss how noise cancellation works. There are two primary types: active noise cancellation (ANC) and passive noise cancellation. Passive noise cancellation simply blocks out sound by physically creating a seal in your ear canal, much like earplugs. ANC, on the other hand, employs microphones to detect external sounds and then produces an “anti-noise” signal that cancels them out. This is particularly effective at reducing low-frequency noises like traffic hum or airplane drone. Budget-friendly earbuds typically offer a more basic version of ANC compared to premium models, but they can still make a significant difference in your listening experience.
What to Expect From Budget Noise-Cancelling Earbuds
When shopping for noise-cancelling earbuds under $100, it’s essential to manage your expectations. You won’t get the same level of performance as flagship models costing several times more. However, that doesn’t mean these earbuds are not worth considering. Here’s a realistic outlook on what you can expect:
- ANC Performance: Noise cancellation will likely be effective at reducing low-frequency background noise but might struggle with high-frequency sounds like sharp voices or sudden noises. It’s all about trade-offs in this price range.
- Sound Quality: Sound quality will be good, often with a balanced sound profile. Expect a pleasant audio experience, even if it doesn’t reach audiophile-grade levels.
- Build Quality: Budget earbuds are typically constructed with plastic materials, which may not feel as premium as metal or ceramic designs. Durability is something to consider, so looking at user reviews regarding longevity is beneficial.
- Features: Some features, like wireless charging or advanced codec support, may be absent or more limited than with more expensive earbuds.
- Comfort: Fit is subjective; look for options that include multiple ear tip sizes to help ensure a snug, comfortable fit that is crucial for achieving good passive and active noise reduction.
Top Noise-Cancelling Earbuds Under $100
Now that we know what to expect let’s take a look at some of the best noise-cancelling earbuds under $100 that are currently on the market:
Anker Soundcore Life A2 NC
Anker is a well-known brand that consistently delivers good quality at an accessible price. The Soundcore Life A2 NC are a popular option for those seeking effective ANC on a budget. These earbuds feature hybrid active noise cancellation, which means they use both feedforward and feedback microphones to block a broader spectrum of sounds. They also boast a transparency mode that allows you to hear surrounding noises when needed. On top of that, the Soundcore Life A2 NC are known for their excellent battery life, offering up to 7 hours of playtime with ANC on and up to 35 hours with the charging case. The sound quality is clear with boosted bass, and they’re IPX5 rated for water resistance, making them a good option for workouts.
Jabra Elite 3
Jabra is renowned for its excellent audio and microphone quality. While the Jabra Elite 3 is an entry-level product it provides a good balance between price and performance. Although they don’t feature active noise cancellation, their snug fit provides excellent passive noise isolation. The Jabra Elite 3 delivers a clear, balanced sound with powerful bass and is extremely comfortable to wear for long periods. They also come with a decent battery life of 7 hours and an additional 28 hours with the charging case. Jabra’s reputation for reliability and high-quality audio at an affordable price makes these a great contender. Additionally, they have an IP55 rating for water and dust resistance.
TOZO NC9
The TOZO NC9 are a budget-friendly option that offers surprising noise-cancellation capability. They boast hybrid active noise cancellation and provide multiple listening modes, including noise cancellation, transparency, and normal modes. The sound profile is well-balanced, and the earbuds come with multiple ear tips to ensure a good fit. Battery life is decent at around 8 hours on a single charge and up to 32 hours with the charging case. The TOZO NC9 also has IPX6 water resistance making them a decent choice for active use.
1More PistonBuds Pro
1More is known for delivering high-quality sound at competitive prices, and the 1More PistonBuds Pro continue that trend. These earbuds feature hybrid active noise cancellation with different modes for varied environments. They have a comfortable fit, provide a balanced sound profile, and offer about 7.5 hours of battery life with ANC on and a total of 30 hours with the charging case. The PistonBuds Pro also include a transparency mode and IPX5 water resistance.
Skullcandy Dime 3 True Wireless Earbuds
The Skullcandy Dime 3 are known for their ultra-compact size, and surprisingly good sound quality, and are an excellent option for those on a budget. While they don’t have active noise cancellation, they do provide good passive noise isolation due to their fit. They come with a comfortable fit, clear audio, and a battery life of about 8 hours which is impressive given their small size. The Dime 3 also includes IPX4 water resistance, making them suitable for light workouts and everyday wear.
EarFun Air Pro 2
The EarFun Air Pro 2 are a notable contender in the under $100 category due to their impressive noise-cancelling capabilities and overall performance. These earbuds offer hybrid active noise cancellation, effectively blocking out a wide range of background sounds. The inclusion of a transparency mode allows users to stay aware of their surroundings when necessary. The EarFun Air Pro 2 boasts a comfortable design, a secure fit, and clear sound with strong bass response. Battery life is also impressive, providing up to 7 hours on a single charge with ANC enabled and an additional 27 hours via the charging case. An IPX5 rating ensures they can handle sweat and light rain.
Factors to Consider When Choosing
When selecting noise-cancelling earbuds under $100, consider these additional factors to help make the best choice for your needs:
- Your Specific Noise Environment: If you’re primarily dealing with low-frequency noise such as on your commute, most ANC earbuds should perform well. However, if you face more inconsistent noises (like chattering voices), some earbuds might struggle more than others. Review user comments regarding specific sound environments.
- Comfort is Key: If you intend to wear your earbuds for extended periods, comfort is critical. Look for models that include multiple ear tip sizes and consider the shape and size of the earbuds themselves.
- Battery Life Needs: Think about how often you use your earbuds, and if you often travel you’ll need earbuds with longer battery life or be happy to charge them daily.
- Primary Use Cases: If you plan to use your earbuds for workouts, prioritize options with solid water resistance and a secure fit. If calls are a priority, be sure to check user reviews of microphone quality and performance.
- Warranty and Support: Look for brands that offer warranties and reliable customer support. It provides some peace of mind when investing in electronics.
Making the Most of Your Budget Earbuds
Once you’ve selected your earbuds, there are a few things you can do to get the most out of them:
- Ensure the Right Fit: Take the time to experiment with different ear tip sizes to find the most secure and comfortable fit. A good seal is essential for effective noise isolation and sound quality.
- Update Firmware: Make sure your earbuds’ firmware is updated, as this often addresses bugs and improves performance.
- Use ANC Sparingly: While ANC is excellent, it does use more battery. Use it when you genuinely need it to preserve battery life.
- Explore EQ Settings: Some earbuds come with companion apps that allow you to tweak EQ settings. Experiment to find a sound profile that suits your preferences.
- Care for Your Earbuds: Clean your earbuds regularly, and store them in the case when not in use to protect them.
There are many excellent noise-cancelling earbuds available for under $100, allowing you to enjoy your music, podcasts, and calls without being constantly bothered by external sounds. While these earbuds may not have all of the bells and whistles of premium models, they offer a valuable combination of noise reduction, good sound quality, and essential features for a reasonable price. By carefully considering your needs and the factors outlined in this article, you can find the perfect pair of budget-friendly noise-cancelling earbuds to transform your listening experience.
