5 Budget Wireless Earbuds for 2025
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5 Budget Wireless Earbuds for 2025

10min

The world of audio has gone wireless now, and it offers great sound without costing a fortune. In 2025, affordable wireless earbuds will rival premium ones in sound and comfort. 

This guide helps you find that perfect balance of performance, value, and everyday usability, so you can enjoy rich audio without overspending.

How to Pick the Best Budget Wireless Earbuds: A 5-Point Checklist

Before getting into recommendations, let’s narrow down what really separates an average pair of wireless headphones from a great one. These five essential features will help you find a set that fits your lifestyle and listening habits perfectly.

Exceptional Audio Performance

Crisp highs, rich mids, and deep bass define good sound. Look for larger drivers and advanced codecs like AAC or aptX that enhance clarity and detail. Even at a modest price, you can enjoy immersive, well-balanced audio that is far above its cost.

Great Price

A great deal isn’t only about paying less. It’s about real value. The best budget earbuds deliver strong performance, comfort, and durability. Even at an accessible price point, Shokz earbuds provide clear, balanced sound, secure fit, and innovative features designed to keep you moving.

Comfort and Fit for Everyday Use

Long hours of wear demand a secure yet gentle fit. Models with multiple ear tips or an ergonomic open-ear design reduce ear pressure and keep sound stable. Good comfort means you can move freely and listen all day without fatigue or irritation.

Durable Build Quality

Daily use brings bumps, drops, and scratches. Earbuds built from sturdy materials with high quality assembly will withstand constant handling. A durable pair will last much longer and maintain performance over time.

Effective Sweat Resistance

Sweat and moisture are unavoidable for active users. An IP rating defines headphone protection, with IPX4 resisting light sweat and IPX5 or higher handling rain or intense workouts. Reliable water resistance keeps your earbuds performing well no matter how active your lifestyle.

Top 2  Wireless Earbuds under $100

Shokz earbuds offer outstanding open-ear earbuds that are reliable, and great-sounding for less than $100.  These are  open-ear options that deliver comfort and clear sound for your daily commute or morning runs. They are among the best wireless earbuds under $100 for users who prioritize awareness and durability.

OPENMOVE

Shokz OpenMove proves that premium sound and everyday comfort come at an affordable price. With its open-ear design, you can stay in your own world of music while still feeling connected to what’s happening around you.  An ideal product for city life or casual listening.

  • Upgraded Audio Quality: 7th-generation bone conduction delivers clearer, more dynamic audio at a budget-friendly price.

  • Weather-Ready Design: IP55 water resistance stands up to sweat, rain, and everyday conditions.

  • Reliable Battery Life: Up to 6 hours of playtime keeps you going through even long workouts and travel.  

OpenRun (Refurbished)

Shokz OpenRun (Refurbished) delivers premium performance at an attractive value. Each unit undergoes a company-certified refurbishment process to ensure it meets the same high standards as the original flagship model. It’s a practical choice for eco-conscious shoppers seeking quality, comfort, and reliability in a sleek package.

  • Dynamic Sound: Crisp highs, deep bass, and balanced tones deliver an immersive listening experience.

  • Lightweight: Designed to stay comfortable and stable through long days and active use.

  • Customized Fit: Available in two sizes, Standard and Mini, for a perfectly secure, personalized fit.

3 Best Wireless Earbuds in the $100-$200 Range

Stepping into this range opens the door to specialized features. These models show that spending a little more can bring serious gains in comfort and performance.

OpenRun Pro 2

Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 takes open-ear performance to the next level. OpenRun Pro 2 features Shokz’s latest 10th-generation bone conduction technology. It’s engineered for an active lifestyle who demand both high-quality audio and lasting comfort. Designed to stay secure through every sprint, jump, and mile, these could be the most stable sports wireless headphones yet.

  • Immersive 3D Sound: The upgraded bone conduction system delivers fuller bass, sharper detail, and a richer sense of depth for an immersive audio experience.

  • Endurance-Ready Power: Fully charges in just one hour and provides up to 12 hours of continuous playtime.

  • Vibration-Controlled: Advanced bone conduction technology minimizes the tactile vibration often associated with high-volume audio.  This provides high performance without the distracting "buzz" on your skin.

OpenSwim Pro

Break the water-land barrier and enjoy your music, anywhere, anytime. OpenSwim Pro features an IP68 waterproof rating, supporting both underwater swimming and land-based activities.  So go ahead and immerse yourself in both the water and your music world.

  • Tech Upgrade: 8th Generation Bone Conduction offers lower vibration, less sound leakage, and clearer audio for smooth listening in and out of water.

  • Multi-Device + App Control: Connect to multiple devices at once and easily customize settings via the smart app.

  • Bluetooth + MP3 Modes: Stream via Bluetooth on land or switch to built-in 32GB MP3 mode at the track or in the pool. 

OpenDots ONE

Small in size, big in power. Weighing only 6.5g, OpenDots ONE earbuds offer a lightweight, comfortable fit that lets you enjoy music all day without fatigue. They deliver rich, immersive sound with crisp highs and deep bass. Easily customize your audio preferences through the smart app for a truly personalized listening experience.

  • DirectPitch™ with Dolby Audio: Crystal-clear sound powered by advanced audio technology.

  • Long Battery Life: Using the charging case provides up to 40 hours of total playback time.

  • Touch Controls: Easily manage volume, calls, and playback with intuitive touch controls.

Comparison Table of Top Models

Model

OPENMOVE

OpenRun (Refurbished)

OPENRUN PRO 2

OPENSWIM PRO

OPENDOTS ONE

Price (USD)

$79.95

$97.50

$179.95

$179.95

$199.95


Tips for Cleaning and Maintaining Wireless Earbuds

All wireless earbuds need occasional care. Keeping them clean not only improves hygiene but also extends their lifespan.

Clean Charging Case and Contact Points

Use a soft brush or dry cotton swab to remove dust or lint from the charging pins and case interior. Keeping these points clean ensures stable charging and prevents connection issues.

Clean The Ear Tips and Mesh Carefully

Wash in-ear earbud silicone tips gently with mild soap and water. Then let them dry completely. Use a dry brush for the mesh grille. Avoid applying liquid directly to the mesh grille to prevent damage. 

Regular Maintenance Schedule

Storing and maintaining earbuds properly includes wiping them after each workout and performing a deeper clean once a month. Sweat, dust, and oils build up quickly with regular use, so regular care keeps them performing at their best.

Avoid Moisture and Extreme Heat

Keep your earbuds away from steam, rain, and hot environments like parked cars in the sun. High temperatures can shorten battery life and affect waterproof seals.

Store Them Correctly

Always store your earbuds in their charging case when not in use. It protects them from damage, keeps them powered, and ensures they’re ready whenever you need them.

FAQ

Are Expensive Earbuds Really Better?

Not always. You might pay extra for earbud brand reputation and design. But today many more affordable wireless earbuds deliver excellent sound quality.  They even include smart controls and are a great value for everyday use.

Do You Charge Earbuds with the Case Open or Closed?

Charging begins automatically once the earbuds are properly seated. Closing the case helps maintain good contact and keeps dust out.

What Are The Top-Rated Budget-Friendly Wireless Earbuds for Noise Cancellation?

Shokz prioritizes open-ear safety and therefore does not feature Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). However, if you need clearer sounding calls, many Shokz models (OpenMove or OpenRun series) are equipped with noise-canceling microphones.  These will effectively filter background noise so your voice stays clear.

Can You Recommend Some High-Quality Wireless Earbuds That Are Affordable?

Shokz OPENMOVE stands out for clear sound, comfort, and reliability. They are an excellent everyday choice and one of the best low-cost wireless earbuds under $100.

Do You Leave Your Earbuds in The Charging Case When Not in Use?

Yes. Keeping earbuds in their case protects them from damage and prevents battery drain. Most cases stop charging automatically when full, so overcharging is not a concern.

Conclusion

Finding quality budget wireless earbuds is easier than ever in 2025. Shokz models like the OPENMOVE prove you can enjoy safety, comfort, and impressive sound without overspending. They provide excellent sound, fit, and durability.  You can confidently count on them to enhance your routine for years to come. Premium listening no longer requires a premium price tag.

NIKI Jane
NIKI Jane is a writer for Shokz. When not creating content, she’s usually out with her OpenRun Pro 2—cycling, hiking, and running wherever the road takes her.

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