Best Wireless Earbuds Under $100 in 2026: Top Picks Compared
Best Wireless Earbuds Under $100 in 2026: Top Picks Compared
Finding the perfect pair of wireless earbuds doesn't mean emptying your wallet. The market for budget-friendly earbuds has exploded, with manufacturers packing premium features into affordable packages. Whether you're commuting, working out, or just enjoying your favorite playlist, there's a great option for under $100.
In this guide, we'll break down the top wireless earbuds that deliver exceptional value, comparing sound quality, battery life, comfort, and extra features to help you find your perfect match.
Why Price Doesn't Always Equal Quality
The wireless earbud market has matured significantly. Features that were once exclusive to $200+ earbuds—like active noise cancellation (ANC), transparency mode, and wireless charging—are now standard in the sub-$100 category. Brands like Anker, JBL, Samsung, and Google have all released compelling options that rival their premium counterparts.
When shopping for budget earbuds, the key is knowing which features matter most to you. Do you prioritize bass-heavy sound for workouts? Crystal-clear calls for work meetings? Or perhaps all-day battery life for long commutes?
Top 5 Wireless Earbuds Under $100
1. Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC - Best Overall ($79)
The Liberty 4 NC offers an incredible balance of features and performance. With adaptive ANC that adjusts to your environment, these earbuds compete with options twice their price.
Key Features:
- Adaptive active noise cancellation
- 10 hours playback (50 hours with case)
- LDAC hi-res audio support
- Comfortable lightweight design
- Customizable EQ via app
Who it's for: Anyone wanting premium features without the premium price.
2. Samsung Galaxy Buds FE - Best for Android ($99)
Samsung's "Fan Edition" earbuds bring flagship features to a budget-friendly price point. They integrate seamlessly with Samsung devices but work great with any Android phone.
Key Features:
- Active noise cancellation
- 6 hours playback (21 hours with case)
- IPX2 water resistance
- Samsung ecosystem integration
- Comfortable wingtip design
Who it's for: Samsung and Android users who want seamless integration.
3. JBL Tune Buds - Best for Bass Lovers ($69)
JBL's signature sound profile shines in these affordable earbuds. If you love punchy bass for hip-hop, EDM, or workout playlists, these deliver.
Key Features:
- JBL Pure Bass Sound
- Active noise cancellation
- 8 hours playback (32 hours with case)
- IP54 dust and water resistance
- 4 microphones for clear calls
Who it's for: Music lovers who prioritize powerful bass response.
4. Google Pixel Buds A-Series - Best for Google Users ($79)
Google's budget earbuds offer clean sound and excellent Google Assistant integration. They're particularly great for Pixel phone owners.
Key Features:
- Google Assistant built-in
- Real-time translation
- 5 hours playback (24 hours with case)
- Adaptive Sound
- Comfortable, secure fit
Who it's for: Google ecosystem users and those who love voice assistants.
5. Nothing Ear (a) - Best Design ($79)
Nothing's transparent design stands out in a sea of similar-looking earbuds. Beyond aesthetics, they deliver solid sound and useful features.
Key Features:
- Unique transparent design
- Active noise cancellation
- 9.5 hours playback (42.5 hours with case)
- ChatGPT integration
- Customizable EQ
Who it's for: Style-conscious buyers who want something different.
What to Look for When Buying
Sound Quality
Look for earbuds with customizable EQ settings so you can tune the sound to your preferences. Many apps let you boost bass, enhance vocals, or create custom profiles.Battery Life
Consider your daily usage. If you're commuting 2+ hours daily, prioritize options with 8+ hours of playback. The charging case capacity matters too—more case charges mean less frequent plug-ins.Fit and Comfort
Earbuds you can't wear comfortably for extended periods are useless regardless of features. Look for options with multiple ear tip sizes and consider wingtip designs for active use.Active Noise Cancellation
ANC quality varies significantly in this price range. Some budget earbuds offer excellent noise cancellation, while others provide minimal reduction. Check reviews specifically mentioning ANC performance.How to Compare Prices Instantly
Before purchasing, it's smart to compare prices across retailers. Prices for the same earbuds can vary by $20-30 between Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and manufacturer sites.
With the Real Results app, you can simply scan the barcode of any earbuds in-store to instantly see prices from all major retailers. This ensures you're getting the best deal whether you're shopping online or in person. You can also check user reviews and ratings to see what real buyers think.
Want personalized recommendations? Ask Rosie, our AI shopping assistant, to compare options based on your specific needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are budget wireless earbuds worth it?
Absolutely. Today's sub-$100 earbuds offer features like ANC, wireless charging, and hi-res audio that were previously only available in premium models. The gap between budget and flagship has narrowed significantly.How long do budget earbuds last?
Most quality budget earbuds last 2-3 years with proper care. Battery degradation is the main factor—expect capacity to decrease by about 20% after 2 years of regular use.Can I use budget earbuds for phone calls?
Yes, most modern budget earbuds include multiple microphones for clear call quality. Look for options with dedicated call microphones and noise reduction features.Do I need ANC in my earbuds?
If you commute on public transit, work in noisy environments, or travel frequently, ANC is worth prioritizing. For quieter settings, you might prefer earbuds with better sound quality instead.Which earbuds work best with iPhone?
While AirPods offer the best iPhone integration, any Bluetooth earbuds work well with iPhone. The Samsung Galaxy Buds FE and Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC are excellent cross-platform options.Final Verdict
For most buyers, the Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC offers the best combination of features, sound quality, and value at $79. If you're deep in the Samsung ecosystem, the Galaxy Buds FE at $99 provides seamless integration worth the extra cost.
Whatever you choose, use the Real Results app to scan and compare prices before buying—you might find the same earbuds for less at a different retailer!