Best cheap wireless earbuds

Finding cheap wireless earbuds with reliable quality in a technologically saturated market can take time and effort. A quick search on Google for “Cheap Earbuds” would list hundreds of earbuds. We set out to find the top 5 cheap earbuds that pack a punch without going over budget because, at Gadgets Shop, we value both tremendous sound quality and a reasonable price. Finding the real gems among the many options that claim to be a symphony for your ears can be difficult in a market full of wireless earbuds.

Top 5 cheap wireless earbuds

QCY T13 ANC earbuds

Impressive ANC

Anker Life P2 mini Earbuds

Small and lightweight

JLAB Go Air Earbuds

Five colour options

Anker Soundcore P20i

10-hour battery life.

Turtle Beach Scout Air

Designed for gamers

Through extensive research, lots of Googling and hands-on testing, we have determined which wireless earbuds are cheap but don’t lack in good quality and performance. Read along as we review the top 5 cheap wireless earbuds and find the hidden treasures that challenge the stereotype that good sound is only available at high prices. This carefully crafted list is your road map to reasonably priced audio bliss, regardless of whether you’re a podcast connoisseur, a music lover, or just someone searching for trustworthy earbuds on a budget.

These are for someone whose budget maxes out at £40 /$50. These are cheap and incredibly affordable and boast a specification no other solution has yet managed at this level.

QCY T13

The QCY T13 earbuds are an excellent budget-friendly option with impressive battery life, a cool design, and compelling sound quality. Consumers searching for reliable, cheap wireless earbuds with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) provide outstanding value even though they might not be able to compete with more expensive models. The QCY T13 is worth considering if you travel frequently or like immersive audio experiences.

Impressive Noise-Canceling

Bluetooth 5.3

Awesome battery

Strengths

Outstanding Battery Life
Active noise cancellation
Cheap

Weaknesses

Low-quality Mid-Range Detail
Treble peaks occasionally piercing and uncomfortable at higher volume
Limited Customization in App Equalizers

Key features

Weight per earbud	8 g
Weight inside case	44 g
Frequency response range	20 – 20000Hz
Active Noice cancellation	Yes
Battery life (without case)	10 hours
Battery life with charging case	30 hours
Driver size	7.2 mm
Bluetooth	5.0

Design, Build Quality and Comfort

The QCY T13 earphones have an elegant, contemporary look. The sleek, matte-finish charging case is small enough to fit in your pocket. Because of their small weight, the earbuds fit well even after prolonged use. Easy playback and call management are made possible by the touch-sensitive controls, which are snappy and simple to use.

The QCY T13 has earbuds that are all white and have a short stem. Its design is straightforward but well-made. They fit snugly thanks to their oval form, which makes them appropriate for prolonged wear during daily activities or workouts. Although it doesn’t have an official waterproof certification, the seamless, hole-free design suggests it may withstand rain.

Sound Quality

The QCY T13 is a small, reasonably priced audio system featuring a large soundstage that adds depth and dimension. While mid-tones may lack detail, genres like dance and pop benefit from its emphasis on lower frequencies. With clear highs and rich lows, the sound quality is remarkable, and the earbuds provide a well-balanced listening experience appropriate for a wide range of musical styles. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is an excellent option for immersive listening because it improves the audio even more.

One of the standout features of the QCY T13 is its Active Noise Cancellation technology, which is very reasonable with four microphones. The ANC functionality effectively blocks out external sounds, providing a quiet environment for focused listening. While it may not compete with premium over-ear headphones, it performs admirably for its size and price point.

Battery Life

The QCY T13 has an impressive battery life, providing 7- 10 hours of playback on a single charge. The charging case increases the overall playtime to 30 hours without ANC and about 24 hours with ANC. Users who are constantly on the run will particularly appreciate quick charging capability.

Connectivity

The QCY T13 earbuds support Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring a stable and efficient connection. Pairing is seamless, and the earbuds maintain a reliable connection within the advertised range. Including touch controls for playback and call management adds to the overall convenience.

Controls

The touch controls on the earbuds allow for intuitive interaction, with options like play/pause, track skipping and activating a low-latency gaming mode. The controls can be customised through the QCY app, providing flexibility to users.
– Pause/resume play
– Answer/end call
– Skip track backwards
– Ignore call
– Skip track forward
– Voice assistance

App Support

The QCY app adds extra functionality, including firmware updates, battery life monitoring, control customisation, equaliser adjustments, and locating misplaced earbuds on a map. While the sound equalisers might not meet expectations, the app enriches the user experience.

QCY T13 ANC Wireless Earphones

Embrace superior sound quality with the QCY T13 ANC Wireless Earphones. Activate the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) mode to reduce noise by up to 28dB, immersing yourself in crystal-clear audio. Engage the Transparency Mode effortlessly, allowing external sounds without removing […]

SKU: clvc6nbgdum000991btg

Category: Earbuds

Anker Life P2 mini

The Anker Soundcore Life P2 true wireless earbuds are a comfortable and functional audio solution, boasting strong Bluetooth performance, satisfactory audio quality, and convenient features catering to commuters’ needs. With an affordable price tag, these are some of the best cheap wireless earbuds in the market.

The Anker Soundcore Life P2 true wireless earbuds are a compelling choice for users seeking comfort, reliable Bluetooth connectivity, and an enjoyable sound profile, all at an affordable price point.

Lightweight

10mm driver

Good audio

Strengths

Impressive battery life
Comfortable fit
Balanced Audio quality

Weaknesses

Limited touch controls
No ANC
Poor microphone performance outdoor

Key features

Weight per earbud	4.6 g
Weight inside case	39 g
Frequency response range	20 – 20000Hz
Active Noice cancellation	No
Battery life (without case)	8 hours
Battery life with charging case	40 hours
Driver size	10 mm
Bluetooth	5.2
IP Rating	IPX4

Design, Build Quality and Comfort

The Soundcore Life P2 has a recognisable form factor influenced by Apple’s AirPods design. These earphones prioritise comfort and utility over novelty. Multiple silicon tips aid in the snug fit and lightweight design, making for a comfortable wearing experience. Despite being somewhat plain, the design accomplishes its goal well, with a practical appearance and a hint of flair from gold accents.

Sound Quality

Considering its budget-friendly price point, the Soundcore Life P2 delivers a positive audio experience. The sound profile offers punchy and energetic bass, creating a decently sized soundstage. The buds cater to the average listener, emphasising enjoyable sound rather than audiophile-grade precision. Call performance, facilitated by four microphones, meets expectations, providing clarity comparable to a typical phone speaker.

Battery Life

The earbuds showcase commendable endurance with up to 40 hours of combined use, thanks to the sizeable battery housed in the charging case. The convenience of USB-C charging adds a modern touch, ensuring compatibility with the superior standard.

Connectivity

Bluetooth connectivity is a strong suit, offering a reliable and consistent connection. The earbuds connect swiftly to the last paired device upon removal from the case, contributing to a hassle-free user experience. The Bluetooth performance remains robust even when navigating through rooms and walls.

Controls

The controls on the Soundcore Life P2 are simplified, with each earbud featuring a single button for functions such as on/off, pairing, and track skipping. While this simplicity keeps operations straightforward, the in-line controls are limited, offering basic functionality.

App Support

The Soundcore Life P2 needs more app support, limiting users’ customisation and fine-tuning options. Unlike competitors, these earbuds do not offer additional features or settings through a dedicated app.

Anker Soundcore Life P2 Mini Earbuds

£21.99 – £48.99

Immerse in a rich sound with Anker Soundcore Life P2 Mini Earbuds. Bluetooth 5.2, 32H Playtime, and Big Bass ensure an unparalleled audio experience. The Life P2 Mini True Wireless Earbuds redefine your auditory experience, with 20 million+ users raving about […]

SKU: cl216sr461s0008h93e0

Category: Earbuds

JLAB Go Air

The JLab Go Air Pop has challenged conventional expectations by offering true wireless earbuds from a reputable brand at a meagre cost. The JLab Go Air Pop combines design, sound quality, battery life, and connectivity. While it may not compete with premium or mid-range models, it excels in its price category, making it a reliable choice for those seeking cheap wireless earbuds.

Five colour options

Custom EQ3 sound

Extended battery life

Strengths

Small and comfortable earbuds
Excellent sound quality
Good controls

Weaknesses

Non-standard looking cable
Poor call quality
No app

Key features

Weight per earbud	3.7 g
Weight inside case	35 g
Frequency response range	20 – 20000Hz
Active Noice cancellation	Yes
Battery life (without case)	8 hours
Battery life with charging case	32 hours
Driver size	6 mm
Bluetooth	5.1
IP Rating	IPX4

Design, Build Quality and Comfort

The JLab Go Air Pop boasts a lightweight design with small, comfortable earpieces. The teardrop-shaped ergonomic earbuds are 15% smaller than JLabs’ previous offerings, weighing only 3.7g per earphone. The earbuds come in five colours and arrive in a plastic-free, 100% recycled paper box. The case is compact and durable and stands on its base for convenient one-handed access. Despite an odd flying charging cable, the overall design scores well for its practicality and aesthetics.

Sound Quality

While not claiming to be a top-of-the-class sound, the JLab Go Air Pop delivers commendable sound quality at its price point. These earbuds have Bluetooth 5.1, wearer detection, and three EQ profiles, which offer good bass weight and textured vocals. The treble may exhibit crackles at higher volumes, and they lack the higher CODECs of premium models. However, the sound quality is solid for a cheap wireless earbud, competing favourably with more expensive options.

Battery Life

Impressively, the JLab Go Air Pop provides eight hours of usage from the earbuds and an additional 32 hours when including the case. The earbuds reconnect seamlessly to the last-known device, and on-device controls for volume, track skipping, and virtual assistants enhance user convenience. The robust battery life and hassle-free functionality contribute to top marks for its battery life.

Connectivity

The earbuds connect effortlessly to devices, supporting Bluetooth 5.1 for reliable connectivity. In a market where connectivity issues can be prevalent, the JLab Go Air Pop stands out by offering a straightforward pairing process, earning it points for user-friendly connectivity.

Controls

The on-ear controls of the JLab Go Air Pop are deemed reliable, with simple taps enabling volume adjustments, track skipping, and interaction with virtual assistants. The controls are intuitive and responsive, providing a seamless user experience.

App Support

Although lacking a dedicated app, the JLab Go Air Pop compensates by incorporating three EQ profiles accessible through triple-taping the earpieces. The absence of an app does not hinder the user’s ability to customise audio settings, and the earbuds effectively respond to touch commands.

Anker Soundcore P20i

The Soundcore P20i offers a compelling package with comparably improved battery life, enhanced connectivity, and comprehensive app support. While its sound signature may not suit audiophiles seeking an immersive experience, it excels in providing a cheap wireless earbud option with customisable sound settings and reliable performance.

App support

10 mm driver

10 hour battery

Strengths

Extended battery life
upgraded Bluetooth version
App Support

Weaknesses

Case prone to scratches
Poor call quality in harsh outdoor conditions
Heavy on bass

Key features

Weight per earbud	6 g
Weight inside case	45 g
Frequency response range	20 – 20000Hz
Active Noice cancellation	Yes
Battery life (without case)	10 hours
Battery life with charging case	30 hours
Driver size	10 mm
Bluetooth	5.3
IP rating	IPX5

Design, Build Quality and Comfort

The Soundcore P20i exhibits a more traditional earbud design with stems, setting it apart from the stemless A20i. Despite a familiar form factor, the P20i faces internal competition from Anker’s product range, specifically the Soundcore Life P2i and Soundcore P2 mini. The earbuds have an IPX5 waterproof rating, making them resistant to rain and sweat. While the matte black finish of the charging case is prone to scratches, the overall build quality is commendable. The comfort level is satisfactory, although the ear tips may be felt during extended use.

Sound Quality

The Soundcore P20i offers a sound profile typical of the brand, emphasising bass and lower mid-tones. The mid-bass delivers a powerful and punchy experience, though it can occasionally feel overbearing. The lower mid-tones contribute to a warm and textured audio output. However, the higher frequencies are subdued, with guitars, pianos, and brighter instruments taking a backseat. The sound signature leans towards being dark, making it suitable for background listening rather than immersive experiences.

Battery Life

With a notable improvement over its predecessors, the Soundcore P20i boasts up to 10 hours of listening on a single charge, with the charging case providing two additional charges. A quick 10-minute recharge, in this case, adds two extra hours of listening time. While the charging case has a minor issue of accidentally activating the earbuds when moved, the overall battery life and efficiency are commendable.

Connectivity

Equipped with Bluetooth 5.3 and AAC codec, the Soundcore P20i ensures a stable and efficient wireless connection. Pairing is quick and hassle-free, maintaining a solid connection even in challenging environments. The earbuds support seamless connectivity for an uninterrupted listening experience.

Controls

The touch-sensitive controls on the Soundcore P20i provide intuitive navigation, allowing users to adjust volume, skip tracks, and manage calls with a simple tap. However, changing the volume may take longer than desired, and the case’s accidental activation of the earbuds could be a minor inconvenience.

App Support

A significant advantage of the Soundcore P20i is its compatibility with the free Soundcore app for iPhone and Android. The app offers user-friendly controls, including volume adjustments on the touch panels. It introduces a gaming mode that synchronises gaming sound effects with on-screen action. Additionally, the app provides 21 different sound presets for audio customisation, addressing some of the earbuds’ sound balance issues.

Anker Soundcore P20i True Wireless Earbuds

£21.99

Elevate your audio experience with Anker Soundcore P20i. These true wireless earbuds feature 10mm drivers for big bass, Bluetooth 5.3 for seamless connectivity, and a water-resistant design. With 30 hours of playtime and AAC/SBC codecs, you can enjoy dynamic sound […]

SKU: cl216so9lbt000bok5b0

Category: Earbuds

Turtle Beach Scout Air

The Turtle Beach Scout Air gaming earbuds present a feature-rich and capable option for gaming enthusiasts, offering commendable performance in everyday use. While not replacing all-in-one gaming and entertainment buds, they deliver a well-balanced soundscape and low-latency connection.

The Turtle Beach Scout Air gaming earbuds offer a solid option for those seeking reliable and versatile wireless gaming audio but with cheap wireless earbuds. While not without some drawbacks, their commendable performance in critical areas, such as low-latency gaming, makes them a competitive choice in this price range.

Designed for gamers

Smart assistant compatibility

Low latency feedback – 60ms

Strengths

Impressive overall soundscape.
Low-latency connection for gaming.
Effective touch gestures.

Weaknesses

Build materials feel cheap.
Flattening of lower ranges in specific genres.
Muffled mic performance.

Key features

Weight per earbud	6g
Weight inside case	25g
Frequency response range	20 – 20000Hz
Active Noice cancellation	No
Battery life (without case)	5 hours
Battery life with charging case	15 hours
Driver size	6 mm
Bluetooth	5.1

Design, Build Quality and Comfort

The design of the Turtle Beach Scout Air earbuds reveals a mix of positives and drawbacks. The case, constructed with seemingly cheap materials, lacks a premium feel but offers practical features like a magnetic lid and a flat bottom for stability. The earbuds, featuring touch-sensitive controls and a distinctive look, suffer from lightweight and easily scratched plastic. The overall form, though portable, may pose comfort issues during extended use. It comes with three ear tips – small, medium and large.

Sound Quality

The Turtle Beach Scout Air’s audio profile is notable for its impressive mid and higher ranges, avoiding overblown bass commonly associated with in-ear buds. The soundstage excels in most games, providing clarity and responsiveness. However, a noticeable flattening of lower tones becomes apparent in heavier genres and some music genres, impacting overall richness.

Battery Life

With a 20-hour battery life, the Turtle Beach Scout Air earbuds offer satisfactory endurance, though falling short of some competitors. The case facilitates quick charging, ensuring minimal downtime for users.

Connectivity

The earbuds pack some handy features. They include a low-latency Game Mode, EQ presets, and customisable touch gestures accessible through the Turtle Beach app. While these features enhance functionality, occasional connectivity issues, such as one earbud failing to pair, pose a notable drawback.

Controls

The touch gestures on the earbuds work well, providing convenient playback controls and ease of use. However, the app-dependent customisation and occasional connectivity problems may hinder the overall user experience.

App Support

The Turtle Beach app adds valuable features, including EQ presets and touch gesture customisation, enhancing the overall functionality of the earbuds. However, occasional issues in pairing and reliance on the app may present challenges.

Top 5 cheap wireless earbuds

QCY T13

Strengths

Weaknesses

Key features

QCY T13 ANC Wireless Earphones

Anker Life P2 mini

Strengths

Weaknesses

Key features

Anker Soundcore Life P2 Mini Earbuds

JLAB Go Air

Strengths

Weaknesses

Key features

Anker Soundcore P20i

Strengths

Weaknesses

Key features

Anker Soundcore P20i True Wireless Earbuds

Turtle Beach Scout Air

Strengths

Weaknesses

Key features

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