10 Best Wireless Earbuds Under $100 That Rival AirPods [2026 Review]

It used to be that if you wanted active noise cancellation (ANC), transparency mode, or seamless switching between devices, you had to shell out over $200 for premium buds like the AirPods Pro or Sony WF-1000XM series. That era is officially over. In 2026, the budget audio market has exploded with innovation. Finding the best wireless earbuds under $100 is no longer about compromising; it’s about choosing which premium features you want for a fraction of the price.

We have tested dozens of models to bring you this definitive list. We analyzed battery claims, tested ANC effectiveness in noisy coffee shops and subways, and compared microphone quality for Zoom calls.

Whether you are an audiophile looking for lossless sound or a commuter needing silence, there is a pair of earbuds on this list that rivals the big names for a third of the cost. Here is your updated guide to the top affordable wireless earbuds of 2026.

Key Takeaways

• You don’t need to overspend: The $80-$100 price bracket now offers premium features like Multipoint, ANC, and Transparency modes that used to be exclusive to $200+ models.

• Brand matters for Apps: Stick to brands like Anker Soundcore, EarFun, and Sony for their superior mobile apps, which allow for firmware updates and EQ customization.

• Fit is King: No matter how good the specs are, if the earbuds hurt your ears or fall out, they are useless. If you have small ears, prioritize the Sony WF-C700N. If you run, get the Samsung Galaxy Buds FE.

The ‘Premium’ Gap Has Vanished: What $100 Buys You Today

Before we dive into the specific models, it is important to understand just how drastically the audio landscape has shifted. A few years ago, buying “budget” earbuds meant accepting frequent connection dropouts, Micro-USB charging, and tinny sound. In 2026, the script has flipped.

Thanks to the rapid advancement of affordable Bluetooth 5.3 and 5.4 chipsets, features that were once exclusive to $250 flagship models have trickled down to the sub-$100 category. We are talking about Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) that actually silences a commute, Multipoint Connectivity for seamless multitasking, and companion apps that offer deep customization.

So, what is the catch? To hit this price point, manufacturers often compromise on premium build materials (expect more plastic, less metal) and brand prestige. You likely won’t get the advanced head-tracking spatial audio found in the Apple ecosystem or the absolute best-in-class microphone wind reduction. But for pure audio fidelity and daily usability, the gap between the “budget” tier and the “pro” tier has never been smaller.

Top 3 Picks at a Glance

If you are in a rush, here are the three absolute best options that dominate the sub-$100 category this year.

Detailed Reviews: The Best Wireless Earbuds Under $100

We selected the earbuds below based on strict criteria: they had to offer reliable connectivity, all-day comfort, and sound quality that punches well above its weight class.

1. EarFun Air Pro 4 – The Overall Champion

The “AirPods Pro Killer” of 2026

If you only read one review today, make it this one. The EarFun Air Pro 4 is currently the gold standard for budget audio. EarFun has somehow packed features into this sub-$90 device that are missing from earbuds costing three times as much.

Why It Rivals AirPods

The standout feature here is the support for aptX Lossless audio and the new Auracast broadcast technology. While AirPods still rely on AAC (a lossy codec), the Air Pro 4 can stream CD-quality audio bit-for-bit if you have a compatible Android device. The “QuietSmart 3.0” hybrid ANC is genuinely impressive, cutting out up to 50dB of ambient noise—a figure that matches flagship models.

Real-World Experience

In our testing, the connection stability was rock solid thanks to the latest Bluetooth 5.4 chip. The multipoint connection (pairing to a laptop and phone simultaneously) worked faster than on the Sony WF-C700N. The 6-mic array with AI noise reduction handles windy streets surprisingly well, making your voice sound clear on calls.

Tech Specs:

• Bluetooth: 5.4

• Battery: 11 hours (buds) / 52 hours (total)

• Water Resistance: IPX5

• Codecs: aptX Lossless, LDAC, AAC, SBC

2. Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC – The Silence King

Best Active Noise Cancellation Under $100

The “NC” in the name stands for Noise Canceling, and Anker isn’t joking around. They claim these reduce noise by 98.5%, and for once, the marketing hype is close to reality.

Why It Rivals AirPods

The ANC on the Liberty 4 NC is better than the standard AirPods (which have none) and arguably rivals the first-generation AirPods Pro. It uses an oversized 11mm driver and a noise isolation chamber to physically block sound while the algorithms cancel the rest. If you fly often or take the subway, these offer the “bubble of silence” effect usually reserved for Bose products.

Real-World Experience

The Soundcore app is arguably the best companion app in the budget sector. You can use “HearID 2.0” to scan your ears and create a custom EQ profile. The 3D Surround Sound mode is fun for movies, though it lacks the head-tracking sophistication of Apple’s Spatial Audio.

Tech Specs:

• Bluetooth: 5.3

• Battery: 10 hours (buds) / 50 hours (total)

• Water Resistance: IPX4

• Codecs: LDAC, AAC, SBC

3. Nothing Ear (a) – The Style Icon

Best Design and “Cool Factor”

Tech should be fun, and Nothing understands that better than anyone. The Ear (a) comes in a striking yellow (as well as black and white) and features the brand’s signature transparent aesthetic.

Why It Rivals AirPods

It’s not just about looks; the pinch controls on the stems are nearly identical to the AirPods Pro, which many users prefer over touch sensors because they prevent accidental pauses. The sound signature is vibrant and punchy, and if you use a Nothing phone, you get direct ChatGPT voice integration—a glimpse into the future of AI wearables.

Real-World Experience

These are incredibly comfortable for long listening sessions. The “Smart ANC” checks the seal between the earbud and your ear canal to adjust noise cancellation automatically. While the battery life isn’t as massive as the EarFun or Soundcore, it is sufficient for a full day of work.

Tech Specs:

• Bluetooth: 5.3

• Battery: 9.5 hours (buds) / 42.5 hours (total)

• Water Resistance: IP54 (Buds) / IPX2 (Case)

• Codecs: LDAC, AAC, SBC

4. OnePlus Buds 3 – Premium Feel, Mid-Range Price

Best for Features and Build Quality

The OnePlus Buds 3 feel like $150 earbuds disguised with a $90 price tag. They have a sleek, metallic finish and offer a feature rarely seen under $100: sliding volume controls on the stem.

Why It Rivals AirPods

Volume control is a major pain point for many wireless earbuds—usually, you have to tap frantically or pull out your phone. With the Buds 3, you just slide your finger up or down the stem, just like on the AirPods Pro 2. The dual-driver system (10.4mm woofer + 6mm tweeter) separates bass and treble frequencies for a rich, dynamic soundstage.

Real-World Experience

The “Golden Sound” feature analyzes your ear canal structure and hearing sensitivity to generate a custom audio profile. It sounds gimmicky, but it noticeably improves clarity. The 49dB ANC is potent, though slightly behind the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC in blocking high-pitched voices.

Tech Specs:

• Bluetooth: 5.3

• Battery: 10 hours (buds) / 44 hours (total)

• Water Resistance: IP55

• Codecs: LHDC 5.0, AAC, SBC

5. Samsung Galaxy Buds FE – The Android Default

Best for Samsung Users

The “FE” stands for Fan Edition, which means Samsung took the best features of their Pro line and stripped away the excess to lower the price.

Why It Rivals AirPods

This is the AirPods equivalent for the Samsung ecosystem. If you have a Galaxy phone, tablet, and watch, these buds switch between them instantly. The design returns to the beloved “wingtip” fit, making them arguably the most secure earbuds for running on this entire list.

Real-World Experience

The sound is tuned by AKG and follows the “Harman Curve,” meaning it is crowd-pleasing with punchy bass and clear vocals. The ANC is very effective at canceling low-frequency rumbles (like bus engines). However, they lack wireless charging, which is a bummer for some.

Tech Specs:

• Bluetooth: 5.2

• Battery: 8.5 hours (buds) / 30 hours (total)

• Water Resistance: IPX2

• Codecs: Samsung Scalable Codec (SSC), AAC, SBC

6. Sony WF-C700N – Comfort Above All

Best for Small Ears

Sony’s naming scheme is confusing, but their audio quality is not. The WF-C700N is designed for people who find standard earbuds painful or bulky.

Why It Rivals AirPods

These are tiny. They sit flush in the ear and are incredibly lightweight. While they don’t have the advanced sensors of AirPods (no auto-pause when you take them out), they bring Sony’s 360 Reality Audio and DSEE (Digital Sound Enhancement Engine), which upscales low-quality music files to near-CD quality.

Real-World Experience

The comfort level is unmatched. You can wear these for 4 hours straight without “ear fatigue.” The buttons are physical tactile clicks rather than touch sensors, which is great for winter when you are wearing gloves. The ANC is decent for the size, but struggles with very loud environments.

Tech Specs:

• Bluetooth: 5.2

• Battery: 7.5 hours (buds) / 15 hours (total)

• Water Resistance: IPX4

• Codecs: AAC, SBC

7. Soundcore Space A40 – The Marathon Runner

Best Battery Life

If you are the type of person who constantly forgets to charge your devices, the Soundcore Space A40 is your savior.

Why It Rivals AirPods

AirPods generally offer 5-6 hours of listening time. The Space A40 offers 10 hours on a single charge and a staggering 50 hours with the case. They also support LDAC for High-Res audio, something regular AirPods lack entirely.

Real-World Experience

The design is a “dot” style rather than a “stem” style, making them look discreet in the ear. The Adaptive ANC automatically detects noise levels around you and adjusts the strength of the cancellation. It works smoothly, preventing that “pressure” feeling some people get from strong ANC.

Tech Specs:

• Bluetooth: 5.2

• Battery: 10 hours (buds) / 50 hours (total)

• Water Resistance: IPX4

• Codecs: LDAC, AAC, SBC

8. CMF Buds Pro 2 – The Value Innovator

Best Unique Feature (Smart Dial)

CMF is the budget sub-brand of Nothing, and the Buds Pro 2 are shaking up the entry-level market (~$60).

Why It Rivals AirPods

The charging case features a physical “Smart Dial” that you can rotate to adjust volume or press to control playback. It’s a fidget-spinner-like feature that is actually useful. They also boast 50dB Hybrid ANC, which is a massive claim for this price point.

Real-World Experience

The sound is very bass-heavy thanks to the “Ultra Bass Technology 2.0.” If you listen to hip-hop or EDM, you will love these. The dual-driver architecture (11mm bass + 6mm tweeter) keeps the vocals clear even when the bass is thumping.

Tech Specs:

• Bluetooth: 5.3

• Battery: 11 hours (buds) / 43 hours (total)

• Water Resistance: IP55

• Codecs: LDAC, AAC, SBC

9. Jabra Elite 4 – The Workhorse

Best for Calls and Durability

Jabra has exited the consumer earbud market to focus on enterprise, but the Elite 4 remains widely available and is a steal in 2026.

Why It Rivals AirPods

Jabra built its reputation on call quality. The 4-microphone technology ensures you sound professional on Teams or Zoom calls, even if you are in a coffee shop. They are also built tough with an IP55 rating against rain and dust.

Real-World Experience

These use physical buttons that are easy to press without jamming the bud into your ear. The “HearThrough” (transparency) mode is adjustable via the app. While they lack the flashy features of the CMF or EarFun, they are reliable, sturdy, and just work.

Tech Specs:

• Bluetooth: 5.2

• Battery: 5.5 hours (buds) / 22 hours (total)

• Water Resistance: IP55

• Codecs: aptX, SBC

10. JLab JBuds ANC 3 – The Budget King

Best Under $60

Sometimes you don’t even want to spend $90. For tight budgets, JLab is the undisputed king of the US market.

Why It Rivals AirPods

JLab packs features into the JBuds ANC 3 that have no business being this cheap. You get decent ANC, a “Be Aware” mode, and a Movie Mode that reduces latency for watching videos. The built-in USB cable on the case means you never have to hunt for a charging cord.

Real-World Experience

Are they as premium as the EarFun Air Pro 4? No. But they are 85% of the experience for 50% of the price. The battery life is solid (42+ hours total), and they are small enough to carry anywhere. The “Movie Mode” is a legitimate perk for Netflix binges on the bus.

Tech Specs:

• Bluetooth: 5.2

• Battery: 9 hours (buds) / 42 hours (total)

• Water Resistance: IP55

• Codecs: SBC, AAC

Buying Guide: How to Choose Budget Earbuds in 2026

The market is flooded with options. Here is how to cut through the jargon and pick the right pair.

1. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) vs. Isolation

Don’t be fooled by “Noise Isolating” labels—that just means they plug your ears like earplugs. You want Active Noise Cancellation, which uses microphones to listen to outside noise and generate an “anti-noise” wave to cancel it out. Look for “Adaptive ANC” (like on the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC), which adjusts the strength based on your environment.

2. The Codec Alphabet: SBC, AAC, LDAC, aptX

• SBC: The basic standard. Every earbud has this.

• AAC: Apple’s preferred standard. If you use an iPhone, this is all you need.

• LDAC / aptX: High-Res audio codecs for Android. They transmit 3x more data than standard Bluetooth. If you use Spotify Premium or Apple Music Lossless on Android, look for the EarFun Air Pro 4 or Soundcore Liberty 4 NC.

3. Battery Life & Fast Charging

In 2026, acceptable battery life is at least 6-7 hours of continuous playback on a single charge. Anything less will frustrate you. Also, look for “Fast Charging” (e.g., “10 minutes charging = 2 hours playtime”), which saves you when you realize your buds are dead right before a gym session.

4. Multipoint Connection

This is a productivity game-changer. It allows your earbuds to connect to your laptop and phone simultaneously. If you are watching a YouTube video on your laptop and a call comes in on your phone, the audio switches automatically. Most buds on our list (EarFun, Soundcore, OnePlus) support this.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Are cheap wireless earbuds actually worth it in 2026?

Absolutely. The technology has matured to the point where the “law of diminishing returns” hits hard after $100. While a $250 pair of AirPods Pro 2 might have slightly better transparency mode and head-tracking spatial audio, a $90 pair of EarFun Air Pro 4s delivers 90% of that performance. For most users, the difference is negligible.

2. Which earbuds have the best microphone for calls under $100?

The EarFun Air Pro 4 and Jabra Elite 4 currently hold the crown for call quality in this price range. EarFun uses the new cVc 8.0 noise reduction technology from Qualcomm to filter out background noise, while Jabra’s 4-microphone array is tuned specifically for voice frequencies.

3. Do I need “Lossless” or “LDAC” audio support?

If you are an iPhone user, no. iPhones only support the AAC codec, so you won’t benefit from LDAC or aptX. However, if you are an Android user with a subscription to a high-quality streaming service (like Tidal, Qobuz, or Apple Music), getting earbuds with LDAC (like the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC) will make your music sound noticeably crisper and more detailed.

4. Can I use these earbuds for gaming?

Yes, but look for “Low Latency Mode” or “Game Mode.” Standard Bluetooth can have a slight delay (latency) which causes the audio to lag behind the video in fast-paced games. The EarFun Air Pro 4 (with <55ms latency) and JLab JBuds ANC 3 (with Movie Mode) are excellent choices for mobile gaming.

5. Is it better to buy earbuds with stems (like AirPods) or dots?

This is personal preference, but there is a functional difference. Stem-style earbuds (like Nothing Ear (a)) usually have better microphone quality because the mic is physically closer to your mouth. Dot-style earbuds (like Sony WF-C700N) are generally more discreet and can be more comfortable to wear while lying down or wearing a winter hat.

Final Thought: The Sound of Value

The days of budget earbuds sounding tinny and hollow are long gone. The market has shifted, and the consumer is the winner.

If you want the absolute best all-arounder that feels “future-proof,” buy the EarFun Air Pro 4. If your priority is blocking out the world on a noisy commute, the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC is unbeatable. And if you just want something that looks cool and works seamlessly, the Nothing Ear (a) is a joy to use.

Stop overpaying for brand names. The best audio experience of 2026 is likely sitting right in the double-digit price range.