Best Budget Earbuds Under 50 EUR 2025: Top 5 Tested

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Quick Summary: Best Budget Earbuds 2025

Looking for quality wireless earbuds without breaking the bank? Here are our top picks under 50 EUR:

• Best Overall: Soundcore Space A40 (paid link) – Premium features, exceptional ANC, 50-hour battery
• Best ANC Value: JBL Wave Beam (paid link) – Excellent noise cancellation at budget price
• Best for Workouts: soundcore P20i (paid link) – Secure fit, water resistance, punchy bass

Introduction: Why Budget Earbuds Are Better Than Ever

The budget earbuds market has transformed dramatically. Features that cost over 150 EUR just two years ago – active noise cancellation, wireless charging, premium codecs – are now available in earbuds costing under 50 EUR. For most listeners, today’s budget earbuds deliver 80% of the performance of flagship models at a fraction of the price.

We have tested dozens of affordable wireless earbuds from brands like Soundcore (Anker’s audio division), JBL, Sony, and Samsung to find the best options for EU consumers in 2025. This guide covers five excellent choices, with honest assessments of what each pair does well – and where they fall short.

What we evaluated:

• Sound quality: Bass response, clarity, soundstage
• ANC effectiveness: How well noise cancellation actually works
• Battery life: Real-world usage, not just manufacturer claims
• Comfort and fit: Long-wearing comfort, secure fit for exercise
• Build quality: Durability and water resistance
• Value: Features delivered for the price

Comparison Table

1. Soundcore Space A40 – Best Overall Budget Earbuds

Why we picked it: The Soundcore Space A40 punches far above its weight class. With noise cancellation that rivals earbuds costing three times as much, exceptional 50-hour total battery life, and a mature companion app with extensive customisation, these are the budget earbuds to beat.

Key Specifications

• Drivers: 10mm dynamic drivers
• ANC: Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation with multiple modes
• Battery: 10 hours (ANC off), 8 hours (ANC on) + 40 hours from case
• Codecs: AAC, SBC, LDAC (Hi-Res Audio)
• Water resistance: IPX4 (splash resistant)
• Charging: USB-C and wireless charging
• Weight: 4.9g per earbud

Pros and Cons

Sound Quality Assessment

The Space A40 delivers a warm, bass-forward sound signature out of the box. Fortunately, the Soundcore app provides 22 EQ presets plus a custom 8-band equaliser, allowing you to tune the sound to your preference. With adjustments, these earbuds can sound remarkably balanced and detailed for the price.

LDAC codec support means Android users can enjoy high-resolution audio streaming from services like Tidal and Amazon Music HD – a rare feature at this price point.

Who Should Buy These

The Soundcore Space A40 suits commuters, frequent travellers, and anyone who prioritises ANC and battery life. If you want premium features without the premium price, these deliver exceptional value. Android users particularly benefit from LDAC support.

(paid link)

2. JBL Wave Beam – Best ANC Value

Why we picked it: JBL consistently surprises with how much value they pack into affordable earbuds. The Air Pro 3 offers genuinely effective ANC, excellent sound quality, and premium codec support at a price that undercuts most competitors.

Key Specifications

• Drivers: 11mm wool composite drivers
• ANC: Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation (up to 43dB reduction)
• Battery: 9 hours (ANC off), 7 hours (ANC on) + 36 hours from case
• Codecs: AAC, SBC, LDAC, aptX Adaptive
• Water resistance: IPX5 (water jet resistant)
• Charging: USB-C and wireless charging
• Weight: 5.2g per earbud

Pros and Cons

Sound Quality Assessment

The 11mm wool composite drivers deliver excellent sound quality with good detail retrieval and balanced tuning. Bass is present without overwhelming mids and highs. The soundstage is wider than expected for budget earbuds.

With both LDAC and aptX Adaptive support, the Air Pro 3 accommodates both Android and iPhone users with their preferred high-quality codecs.

Who Should Buy These

The JBL Wave Beam excels for users who switch between devices frequently (multipoint support) or need better call quality than most budget options provide. The IPX5 rating also makes these suitable for workouts in all conditions.

(paid link)

3. soundcore P20i – Best for Workouts

Why we picked it: The P20i combines a secure fit, solid water resistance, and punchy bass that energises workouts. Gaming mode with reduced latency adds versatility. For exercise enthusiasts on a budget, these deliver reliable performance.

Key Specifications

• Drivers: 11mm silk diaphragm drivers
• ANC: Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation with transparency mode
• Battery: 7 hours (ANC off), 6 hours (ANC on) + 35 hours from case
• Codecs: AAC, SBC
• Water resistance: IPX5 (water jet resistant)
• Charging: USB-C and wireless charging
• Weight: 5.2g per earbud
• Special features: Gaming mode (60ms latency)

Pros and Cons

Sound Quality Assessment

The P20i is tuned for energy and engagement rather than flat accuracy. Bass is prominent and punchy – perfect for workout playlists and EDM. The Soundcore app allows bass reduction if you prefer more balanced sound.

The gaming mode genuinely reduces latency, making these usable for mobile gaming without noticeable audio delay.

Who Should Buy These

Gym-goers and runners will appreciate the secure fit and sweat resistance. Mobile gamers benefit from the low-latency mode. If you prioritise workout performance over critical listening, the P20i delivers.

(paid link)

4. Sony WF-C510 – Best Brand Name Option

Why we picked it: JBL brings decades of audio expertise to the budget segment. The WF-C510 offers the signature JBL sound profile – punchy bass with energetic mids – in a comfortable stick design that many users find easier to wear than in-ear alternatives.

Key Specifications

• Drivers: 5.8mm dynamic drivers
• ANC: Active Noise Cancelling with Ambient Aware
• Battery: 8 hours (ANC off), 6 hours (ANC on) + 32 hours from case
• Codecs: AAC, SBC
• Water resistance: IPX4 (splash resistant)
• Charging: USB-C only (no wireless charging)
• Weight: 5.1g per earbud

Pros and Cons

Sound Quality Assessment

JBL’s sound signature is instantly recognisable – bold bass, forward mids, and clear (if slightly rolled-off) highs. It is an engaging, fun sound that works well for pop, hip-hop, and electronic music. Classical and acoustic listeners may prefer the more neutral tuning of the JBL Wave Beam.

Who Should Buy These

JBL fans and those who prefer the stick-style earbud design over in-ear options will appreciate the WF-C510. The reliable brand reputation and readily available warranty service add peace of mind for buyers who prefer established names.

(paid link)

5. JBL Wave Beam 2 – Best Premium Features

Why we picked it: JBL’s Wave Beam 2 brings flagship features to the budget segment. With noise cancelling, 40 hours total playtime, JBL Pure Bass sound, and Smart Ambient technology, these deliver premium JBL features at a budget-friendly price.

Key Specifications

• Drivers: JBL dynamic drivers
• ANC: Active Noise Cancellation with Ambient Sound mode
• Battery: 8 hours (ANC off), 6 hours (ANC on) + 32 hours from case
• Codecs: AAC, SBC
• Water resistance: IP54 (dust and splash resistant)
• Charging: USB-C and wireless charging
• Weight: 5.6g per earbud

Pros and Cons

Sound Quality Assessment

JBL Pure Bass sound delivers the signature JBL experience – deep, powerful bass that brings music to life. The audio is engaging and dynamic, perfect for genres like pop, hip-hop, and electronic music.

Smart Ambient technology allows you to hear your surroundings when needed, making these versatile for different listening situations.

Who Should Buy These

The JBL Wave Beam 2 suits users who want premium features like ANC and long battery life. The JBL Pure Bass sound signature delivers engaging audio for music lovers. Smart Ambient technology lets you stay aware of your surroundings when needed.

(paid link)

Budget Earbuds Buying Guide

Choosing between budget earbuds can be confusing. Here is what actually matters:

ANC Effectiveness

Not all noise cancellation is equal. Budget ANC typically reduces low-frequency noise (plane engines, train rumble, air conditioning) by 15-25dB. Premium options in this price range – like the Soundcore Space A40 – approach 30dB reduction, matching mid-range options from years past.

Recommendation: If ANC is your priority, the Space A40 or JBL Wave Beam deliver the best performance under 50 EUR.

Battery Life Realities

Manufacturer battery claims typically assume moderate volume without ANC. Real-world usage with ANC enabled and comfortable listening volumes typically delivers 70-80% of advertised figures.

• Excellent: 8+ hours per charge with ANC (Space A40)
• Good: 6-7 hours per charge with ANC (JBL Wave Beam, P20i)
• Adequate: 5-6 hours per charge with ANC (Wave Beam 2)

Codec Support

Bluetooth codecs affect audio quality and latency:

• SBC: Universal baseline, adequate quality
• AAC: Better than SBC, preferred by iPhone
• aptX: Good quality for Android devices
• LDAC: High-resolution audio streaming (best quality)

Practical advice: LDAC support (Space A40, JBL Wave Beam) matters only if you stream Hi-Res audio and use an Android device. iPhone users are limited to AAC regardless of earbud capabilities.

Water Resistance Ratings

IPX ratings indicate protection level:

• IPX2: Light splash only – not suitable for workouts
• IPX4: Splash resistant – handles sweat and light rain
• IPX5: Water jet resistant – safe for intense workouts and rain

For exercise: Choose IPX5 or higher (JBL Wave Beam, soundcore P20i).

Frequently Asked Questions

Are budget earbuds with ANC worth it?

Yes, budget ANC has improved significantly. While not matching flagship earbuds, options like the Soundcore Space A40 and JBL Wave Beam effectively reduce background noise on commutes and in offices. They will not eliminate all noise, but the difference is noticeable and valuable for most users.

Can I use these earbuds for running?

Yes, but choose carefully. The soundcore P20i (IPX5) and JBL Wave Beam (IPX5) offer the best sweat and rain protection. The JBL Wave Beam 2 (IPX2) are not recommended for intense exercise. Fit is personal – if earbuds fall out during your runs, try different ear tip sizes or consider wing tips.

Which budget earbuds have the best sound quality?

For pure sound quality, the Soundcore Space A40 with LDAC support and comprehensive EQ customisation offers the most versatile audio experience. The JBL Wave Beam 2 dual-driver design also delivers impressive detail. However, “best” sound is subjective – some prefer JBL’s energetic tuning over neutral accuracy.

Do budget earbuds work with iPhone?

Yes, all earbuds in this list work with iPhone via Bluetooth. However, iPhone limits wireless audio to AAC codec, so LDAC-capable earbuds won’t deliver their maximum quality on iOS. JBL Wave Beam 2 lose some ecosystem features when used with iPhone.

How long do budget earbuds last?

With proper care, expect 2-3 years of regular use. Battery capacity gradually decreases over time – after 18-24 months, you may notice reduced battery life. Storing earbuds at extreme temperatures or fully discharged accelerates battery degradation.

Final Verdict: Which Budget Earbuds Should You Buy?

After extensive testing, here are our clear recommendations:

• Best overall: Soundcore Space A40 (paid link) – The best combination of ANC, battery life, and features under 50 EUR. Our top recommendation for most buyers.
• Best ANC value: JBL Wave Beam (paid link) – Excellent noise cancellation with multipoint support and better call quality.
• Best for workouts: soundcore P20i (paid link) – Secure fit, IPX5 rating, and punchy bass for gym sessions.
• Best brand name: Sony WF-C510 (paid link) – Classic JBL sound from an established audio brand.
• Best premium features: JBL Wave Beam 2 (paid link) – ANC, 40h battery, JBL Pure Bass sound.

All five options deliver genuine value for money. The key is matching earbuds to your specific priorities – whether that is ANC performance, workout durability, ecosystem integration, or brand preference.

Want to learn more about audio gear? Read our complete audio gadgets guide for recommendations on DACs, microphones, and other audio accessories.

Last updated: January 2025