10 Best Earbuds Under 100 2026 in the United States

The Beats Studio Buds + offer impressive sound quality with their custom acoustic platform, delivering rich and immersive audio. These earbuds excel in comfort and fit, thanks to four pairs of silicone tips that ensure a snug fit for a variety of ear sizes. The active noise cancellation (ANC) and transparency modes provide flexibility in controlling ambient sound, making them suitable for various environments.

With up to 36 hours of listening time, these earbuds have a robust battery life, reducing the need for frequent charging. Connectivity is strong, with one-touch pairing and broad compatibility with both Apple and Android devices, supported by Class 1 Bluetooth for extended range and fewer dropouts. These earbuds also feature spatial audio for an enhanced listening experience. Additionally, the IPX4 rating for sweat and water resistance makes them reliable for workouts and outdoor activities.

The controls might take some getting used to, as they include a combination of button, touch, and voice controls. The transparent design may not appeal to everyone, and although the noise cancellation is effective, it may not be on par with higher-end models. The earbuds' lightweight design (3.2 ounces) and compact charging case make them highly portable. Users seeking high-quality sound and reliable performance in a budget-friendly package will find the Beats Studio Buds + to be a solid choice.

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 delivers high-fidelity sound quality thanks to the H2 chip and custom-built driver, providing clear high notes and rich bass. Its active noise cancellation is advanced, effectively removing background noise, while the Transparency mode allows you to stay aware of your surroundings.

The customizable fit with four silicone tips ensures comfortable wear for various ear shapes and creates a reliable acoustic seal. Battery life is strong, offering up to 6 hours of listening time with noise cancellation enabled, and 30 hours with the charging case. Connectivity is seamless with Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring stable and quick pairing with compatible devices.

The earbuds are dust, sweat, and water-resistant (IP54), enhancing durability for different environments. Touch controls are intuitive and include volume adjustments by swiping the stem, making it easy to manage playback and calls. The Personalized Spatial Audio feature and dynamic head tracking provide an immersive listening experience. However, it's worth noting that while these earbuds offer premium features, they are priced significantly higher than $100, making them less suitable for someone strictly looking for budget-friendly options.

For those looking for earbuds under $100, the Bose Ultra Open Bluetooth Earbuds offer some compelling features, particularly in sound quality and comfort. The OpenAudio technology ensures you get high-quality, private sound while still being aware of your surroundings, which is ideal for outdoor use or when multitasking. The design is comfortable and secure, with a lightweight grip that ensures they stay put during use. Their IPX4 water resistance means they can handle splashes and sweat, making them suitable for workouts or rainy days.

However, there are a few trade-offs to consider. These earbuds lack noise cancellation, which might be a drawback for users needing to block out background noise. The battery life is decent, with up to 7 hours of playtime and additional charges from the case, though the immersive audio mode reduces this to about 4 hours. Connectivity is a strong point, thanks to Bluetooth multipoint and the ability to switch seamlessly between devices.

The simple button controls are user-friendly, and the Bose app adds extra functionality and updates. Durability seems adequate with the acoustic mesh protecting against moisture and debris. In summary, these earbuds are best suited for those who prioritize comfort, situational awareness, and decent sound quality in an affordable package but may not be ideal for those seeking noise-canceling features or extended battery life in immersive mode.