11 affordable wireless earbud alternatives to AirPods — starting at just $20
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Gone are the days of wired headphones and earbuds, especially when premium-quality wireless technology no longer costs an arm and a leg to snag.
Wireless and wearable tech is more affordable than ever, as seen in the smartwatch market. And Apple has been continuously dominating the earbuds arena for some time now — dating all the way back to 2016. In fact, a report by Counterpoint Research via Bloomberg outlined that Apple sold approximately 82 million AirPods in 2020 alone. This marked an increase of 61 million units compared to 2019.
However, despite the massive surge in sales, the study explained that Apple is reportedly losing market share compared to other wireless earbuds brands. Putting that fact into perspective, in 2019 Apple AirPods (the standard AirPods models as well as the latest AirPods Pro) reportedly accounted for about half of all true wireless earphones. The study goes on to explain that this year, Apple AirPods sales are expected to decrease to around 35 percent due to rival brands gaining popularity.
One major factor that likely caused this decline of interest in Apple's models is the influx of more affordable options that perform just as well. Currently, the latest Apple AirPods retail for $179 (non-sale price) on Amazon, and the AirPods Pro retail for $269.99 (when not on sale).
That being said, check out the 11 best affordable wireless earbuds that range in price from $20 to $149. To make your shopping easier, the top features of each are listed below.
1. Otium Wireless Hi-Fi Stereo Earbuds, $19.99 (Orig. $32.99)
Top Features:
30 hours of playtime
Low power consumption
Long-lasting battery
USB Type-C Quick Charge
Comes in four colors
2. Tozo T12 Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds With Premium Fidelty Sound Quality, $39.98 (Orig. $59.99)
Top Features:
Touch-control
Smart LED Digital Display
Waterproof
Easy pairing
Charge on the go
Comes in five colors
3. Comiso True Wireless Earbuds With Deep Bass, $42.99
Top Features:
Ergonomic comfort sports design
Upgraded ultra-long playback
Rich bass sound
48-hour ultra-long playtime
Waterproof
Comes in three colors
4. JBL Tune True Wireless In-Ear Headphones, $52.46 (Orig. $120)
Top Features:
Two-hour charging time from empty
Hands-free stereo calls
Signature JBL pure bass sound
5. Beats Flex Wireless Earbuds, $69.95
Top Features:
Customized fit for all-day comfort
Apple headphone chip
Up to 12 hours of listening time
Auto-play and pause
On-device controls
Extended wireless range
Comes in four colors
6. UrbanEars Alby Wireless Earbuds With Customizable Fit, $69.99
Top Features:
Earbuds attach to charging case magnetically for extra security
Includes silicone in-ear tips for a customizable fit
Available in four colors
Voice and touch controls
Water-resistant design
7. Jabra Elite Wireless Earbuds With Charging Case, $75 (Orig. $79.99)
Top Features:
Four-microphone call technology
Up to 15 hours of use on a single charge
Fast-charge compatible
Two-year warranty against dust and water
Voice assistant compatible
8. Urbanears Boo Wireless Headphones, $79.99
Top Features:
Sustainable design (made of up to 97% recycled materials)
Passive noise cancellation and balanced sound
Up to 30 hours of wireless playtime
Optimized charging
Splash resistant
Touch controls
9. Amazon Wireless Echo Buds With Premium Sound And Active Noise Cancelation, $119.99
Top Features:
Dynamic audio and active noise cancelation
Alexa-compatible (also works with other assistants)
Customizable fit
Sweat-resistant
Wireless charging compatible
Comes in two colors
10. Marshall Minor III True Wireless Earbuds, $129.99
Top Features:
Signature vintage Marshall design and color
25 hours of wireless playtime
Touch-sensitive surface
Auto-play and pause
Water-resistant
Buy Now on Marshall Headphones
11. Jaybird Vista, $149.99
Top Features:
Sweat and waterproof
Single earbud mode
Sport fit
Fast charge
Premium sound with custom EQ
If you enjoyed this story, check out these 3 premium earbuds that are the best you can buy.
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