Best Truly Wireless Earbuds Under $100

How to Choose the Right Truly Wireless Earbuds Under $100

Key Features to Compare

When evaluating truly wireless earbuds under $100, focus on these 5-7 core features to ensure they align with your needs:

1. Sound Quality and Codecs: Look for balanced audio with strong bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. Budget models often support SBC or AAC codecs for standard Bluetooth streaming, but premium picks like the Baseus BS1 include LDAC for hi-res audio (up to 96kHz/24-bit), enabling richer detail on compatible devices like Android phones. Compare driver size (typically 6-12mm); larger drivers (e.g., 10mm in the Truly Upgrade) deliver punchier bass without distortion.

2. Battery Life and Charging: Aim for at least 5-6 hours per charge with the case providing 20-40 hours total. The Baseus BS1 offers 40 hours, outlasting the 50-hour claim of the Truly Upgrade (which includes case). Fast charging is key—many support 10-minute top-ups for 1-2 hours of play. Wireless charging is rare under $100, so prioritize USB-C cases.

3. Noise Cancellation and Call Quality: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) in budget tiers is often hybrid (adaptive to environment), as in the Baseus BS1, reducing low-frequency rumble by up to 40dB. For calls, check mic count—6-mic setups (Baseus) with ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation) outperform single-mic options like the TWS Earphones, minimizing wind noise during outdoor use.

4. Fit and Comfort: IPX4+ waterproofing is essential for sweat resistance. Open-ear designs like the Truly Upgrade suit glasses wearers and small ears, avoiding in-ear pressure, while semi-in-ear (Baseus) provides passive isolation. Test for secure fit via wingtips or hooks; lightweight builds (under 5g per bud) prevent fatigue during long sessions.

5. Connectivity and Latency: Bluetooth 5.0+ ensures stable pairing within 10m. Low-latency modes (under 60ms) are crucial for gaming, as in the Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds. Compatibility matters—Google Pixel-specific TWS models integrate seamlessly with Android gestures.

6. Additional Perks: App support for EQ tweaks (rare but present in Baseus) and multipoint pairing (connect to two devices) add versatility. Build quality, like the mechanical case on the Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds, enhances portability.

Budget Considerations

Under $100, earbuds fall into three tiers, each offering escalating value:

• Ultra-Budget ($0-$30): Basic connectivity and 4-6 hour battery, like the $10.99 Wired Earbuds 2 Pack (non-wireless alternative) or $36.99 TWS Earphones. You get reliable calls and decent sound for casual listening, but expect no ANC, shorter case life (15-20 hours), and plastic builds prone to wear. Ideal for backups or kids, but wireless options here sacrifice range for price.

• Value Tier ($30-$60): Sweet for everyday use, with Bluetooth 5.2, IPX5 waterproofing, and 20-30 hour total playtime. The Truly Upgrade ($N/A, estimated $50) and Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds ($50) fit here, adding open-ear comfort or gaming latency. Sound is bass-forward, calls clear with dual mics, but no hi-res or advanced ANC—great if you prioritize workouts over audiophile detail.

• Near-Premium ($60-$100): Closest to flagship performance, like the $69.99 Baseus BS1 with LDAC, 40-hour battery, and adaptive ANC. You gain 4g lightweight fit, 6-mic calls, and Bluetooth 6.0 for future-proofing. Trade-offs include occasional app glitches, but overall, this tier delivers 85% of $200 earbuds' features, making it worthwhile for heavy users.

Across tiers, expect solid warranties (1 year) and eco-friendly cases, but skimp on luxury materials like metal grilles.

Performance vs. Price

The sweet spot under $100 is the $50-$70 range, where performance plateaus upward without diminishing returns. For instance, the Baseus BS1 at $69.99 punches above its weight with hi-res LDAC and hybrid ANC, matching $150 models like Anker Soundcore in noise reduction (40dB) and playtime (8 hours per bud), but at half the cost—ideal for commuters blocking subway noise. Below $50, like the TWS Earphones ($36.99), you get true wireless basics with Pixel compatibility, but latency spikes (100ms+) hinder gaming, and battery dips to 20 hours total.

Compare to pricier options: Under $100 avoids Sony WF-C500's ($120) superior app EQ but rivals its bass via larger drivers. Value peaks when features like ENC calls (Baseus) justify the spend for professionals, while budget picks suffice for podcasts. Overall, $60+ yields 20-30% better audio fidelity and 50% longer life, making it the performance-price nexus—skip ultra-cheap unless portability trumps quality.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Ignoring Fit for Your Ear Shape: Many opt for in-ear buds without trying open designs; the Truly Upgrade's clip-on prevents falls during runs, unlike sealed buds that cause ear fatigue for small-eared users.

2. Overlooking Codec Compatibility: Android users might buy AAC-only buds (iOS-focused), missing LDAC's hi-res on the Baseus—test device pairing to avoid tinny sound.

3. Neglecting Waterproof Ratings: Gym-goers forget IPX5 (sweat/jets) vs. IPX4 (splashes); the Truly Upgrade's rating handles workouts, but lower-rated TWS Earphones risk failure in rain.

4. Focusing Solely on Battery Claims: Real-world use halves advertised times (e.g., 50H on Truly Upgrade drops to 25H with ANC); prioritize total case life over per-charge hype.

5. Skipping Call Mic Reviews: Budget mics amplify background noise; avoid single-mic like basic TWS if calls are key—opt for multi-mic like Baseus for clarity.

Top Picks Summary

Our top 3 picks cater to specific users from the reviewed lineup:

1. Baseus BS1 NC ($69.99): Best overall for audiophiles and professionals. Its LDAC hi-res, adaptive ANC, and 6-mic calls deliver premium sound and clarity, ideal for daily commuters or office workers needing noise-free focus.

2. Truly Upgrade Clip on Earbuds (~$50): Best for athletes and glasses wearers. Open-ear design with 50H playtime and IPX5 suits workouts without isolation fatigue, perfect for runners prioritizing awareness over deep bass.

3. TWS Earphones Compatible with Google Pixel ($36.99): Best budget pick for Android users. Affordable true wireless with hands-free case charging fits casual listeners on Pixel devices, great for students or light travelers seeking basics without frills. (Word count: 742)

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes truly wireless earbuds better than wired ones under $100?

Truly wireless earbuds eliminate cables for full mobility, crucial for workouts or multitasking—unlike the $10.99 Wired Earbuds 2 Pack, which tether you but offer unlimited battery and deeper bass at no charging hassle. Under $100, wireless options like the Baseus BS1 ($69.99) add ANC and 40-hour playtime, justifying the premium over wired for active users. However, wired wins for reliability in low-battery scenarios or with non-Bluetooth devices. If freedom matters, go wireless; for basics, wired saves $30+.

How important is noise cancellation in budget earbuds?

ANC is a game-changer for noisy environments but varies under $100. The Baseus BS1's adaptive hybrid ANC effectively cuts low-end rumble (e.g., traffic) by 40dB, rivaling $150 models for commuters. Open-ear like the Truly Upgrade skips ANC for awareness, while the TWS Earphones lack it entirely,