Looking for good earbuds without spending a lot? You’re probably checking out AliExpress, and you’re right to do so. This place is full of great finds at low prices.
You can find brands like Xiaomi, Anker, OnePlus, and many more. They’re not just cheap; they’re good value for your money.
So, we’ve looked around for you and found some of the best, budget-friendly earbuds on AliExpress in 2024. Trust us, these are deals you don’t want to miss.
Are AliExpress Earbuds Any Good?
You might be wondering if cheap earbuds from AliExpress can really be any good. After all, we’ve all heard the saying, “You get what you pay for.” But here’s the scoop:
- Variety is King: AliExpress has a massive selection. From basic models for those who just want something simple, to high-tech earbuds packed with features like noise cancellation and Bluetooth 5.0, there’s something for everyone.
- Quality Brands: Yes, it’s true that AliExpress is home to brands you might not have heard of before. But, it’s also a place where well-known Chinese brands like Xiaomi and Huawei sell their products. These companies are known for offering good quality gadgets at a fraction of the price of big-name competitors.
- Customer Reviews are Your Best Friend: One of the best things about shopping on AliExpress is the vast number of customer reviews. These can give you a real insight into how good the earbuds are in practice, from sound quality to battery life.
- Price vs. Performance: When it comes down to it, many earbuds on AliExpress offer an impressive balance of price and performance. You might not get the absolute best sound quality available on the market, but many find the quality surprisingly good for the price.
- Warranty and Returns: It’s important to check the warranty and return policy. While many sellers offer decent return policies and warranties, they can vary, so it’s worth checking this out before you buy.
Buying Earbuds from AliExpress: Smart Tips for a Great Find
Thinking about snagging a pair of earbuds from AliExpress? Great choice! But before you click ‘buy’, here are some tips to make sure you get the best bang for your buck:
- Check the Reviews: Really dig into what others are saying. If lots of people are happy, that’s a good sign. Look for comments about sound quality, battery life, and comfort. Pictures and videos from buyers are super helpful too!
- Know the Brand: Some brands like Xiaomi or Anker have a good rep for quality at a nice price. If you’re looking at a brand you don’t know, a quick search to learn more can go a long way.
- Understand the Specs: Get a little familiar with terms like battery life, Bluetooth range, and waterproof levels. It helps you compare and decide what’s best for you.
- Shipping and Returns: Check how long it’ll take to get to you and what you can do if they’re not quite right. Some sellers are better about this than others.
- Price vs. Quality: Cheap doesn’t always mean bad, but super low prices can sometimes mean a compromise on quality. Think about what you’re willing to pay for what you’re getting.
- Warranty and Customer Service: Look into if there’s any warranty and how you can get help if you need it. Good customer service can make all the difference.
- Look for Deals and Coupons: AliExpress often has sales or coupons. A little patience can save you some cash.
- Fake Products Alert: Keep an eye out for fakes, especially with well-known brands. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
- Payment Security: Use secure payment methods and make sure you’re comfortable with the platform’s buyer protection policies.
- Stay Realistic: Remember, a $20 pair of earbuds might not sound like a $200 pair. But they can still be pretty awesome for the price.
Best Cheap Earbuds on AliExpress: List
No | Model | Best Deal |
---|---|---|
#1. | Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC | View on AliExpress |
#2. | Xiaomi Redmi Buds 5 Pro | View on AliExpress |
#3. | Anker Soundcore Space A40 | View on AliExpress |
#4. | Edifier TWS1 Pro 2 | View on AliExpress |
#5. | Realme Buds Air 5 Pro | View on AliExpress |
#6. | Soundcore Life A3i | View on AliExpress |
#7. | OnePlus Buds Z2 | View on AliExpress |
Best Cheap Earbuds on AliExpress: Review
Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC
- Noise Cancellation (ANC): Yes, with wind reduction and adaptive noise-canceling features
- Water Resistance: IPX4 rating
- Battery Life: Nearly 10 hours with ANC on
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 with LDAC, AAC, and SBC codecs
- Features: 22 EQ presets, eight-band equalizer, Bluetooth multipoint support
The Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC earbuds are a solid pick if you’re after quality without breaking the bank.
For under a hundred bucks, these earbuds deliver a package that’s hard to beat, combining long battery life, reliable active noise cancellation, and the added bonus of wind reduction.
They’re tailored to enhance your listening experience, with a bass and treble boost that hits just right for most users.
The Soundcore app takes customization further, offering 22 EQ presets and an eight-band equalizer for that perfect sound.
Plus, with the latest Bluetooth 5.3 and support for multiple codecs, you’re covered regardless of your device.
The cherry on top? Bluetooth multipoint lets you juggle connections seamlessly, making them a practical choice for multitaskers.
While they’re not the go-to for intense workouts due to their IPX4 rating, they excel in everyday use, offering responsive touch controls and a comfort that lasts all day.
Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Strong ANC performance with additional features
- Long battery life
- Versatile connectivity options
Cons:
- IPX4 rating means they’re not suited for intense workouts
- Sound profile may not suit all preferences
This approach keeps the tone friendly and straightforward, offering clear insights into why the Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC earbuds could be a great choice for many.
Xiaomi Redmi Buds 5 Pro
- ANC: Yes, up to 52dB
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3, 49ms low latency
- Driver Size: 11mm titanium-coated woofer, 10mm piezoelectric ceramic tweeter
- Battery Life: 10 hours (Buds), 38 hours (with Case)
- Charging Interface: Type-C
- Additional Features: Hi-Res Audio Wireless, Comfortable Fit, Xiaomi Headphones App
The Xiaomi Redmi Buds 5 Pro is a standout choice for those in search of quality earbuds without breaking the bank.
From the get-go, these earbuds impress with their flagship-level 52dB ANC, making them a quiet companion in noisy surroundings.
The combination of a large titanium-coated woofer and a ceramic tweeter delivers a sound experience that’s rich in detail, from deep bass to crisp highs.
The comfort is noteworthy too; with their ergonomic design and lightweight, these buds are easy to wear all day.
Connectivity is seamless thanks to Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring a stable connection across a wide array of devices.
Plus, with a total playtime of up to 38 hours with the case, you’re set for extended listening sessions.
The inclusion of the Xiaomi Headphones App for customization adds a personal touch, letting you tweak settings to your preference.
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality with clear bass, mids, and highs.
- Effective ANC for noise-sensitive users.
- Comfortable and lightweight design, suitable for long periods of use.
- Stable connectivity and quick pairing across devices.
- Durable with IP54 water and dust resistance.
Cons:
- Battery life dips with ANC activated.
- Design may feel too familiar for those seeking a fresh look.
- Missing a dedicated low-latency mode for gamers.
- Price may vary significantly for international buyers.
- No wireless charging for the case.
Anker Soundcore Space A40
- Active Noise Cancelling: Yes, comfortable for sleeping
- Connectivity: Bluetooth with multipoint connection
- Battery Life: 5-10 hours, extended with ANC only
- Charging: USB-C and wireless
- Water Resistance: IPX4 splashproof
- App Support: Soundcore app with customizable controls and EQ
The Anker Soundcore Space A40 is a game-changer for those on the hunt for affordable, feature-packed earbuds.
With its stellar Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) that makes even side-sleeping a dream, these earbuds blend comfort with cutting-edge technology.
The call quality might take a slight hit in windy conditions, but for the price, the trade-off is minimal.
The Soundcore app is a highlight, offering an array of sound equalizers and a gaming mode that outperforms even its predecessors.
The design is sleek, the case and earbuds feel premium, and they’re built to last with IPX4 splashproof protection.
The ability to wirelessly charge and connect to multiple devices simultaneously adds layers of convenience, making these earbuds a versatile companion for any tech-savvy user.
Pros:
- Exceptional ANC for peaceful listening.
- Comfortable fit, even suitable for sleeping.
- Premium build with wireless charging.
- Handy app customization and gaming mode.
Cons:
- Call clarity can suffer outdoors.
- ANC may not block all sudden noises.
Edifier TWS1 Pro 2
- Active Noise Cancelling (ANC): Strong performance across various frequencies
- Battery Life: 4 hours with ANC on
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, lacks multipoint connection
- Water and Dust Resistance: IP54
- Special Features: Wind noise reduction mode, Gaming Mode, auto-pause when an earbud is removed
- Sound: Versatile profile with strong bass, clear mids, and smooth treble
For just $50, the Edifier TWS1 Pro 2 sets a high bar for Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) in the budget earbud market.
Once you pop these earbuds in, the world quiets down significantly, especially with its knack for dialing down mid-tones, making it ideal for those who want to drown out conversations and background music while still keeping aware of some higher-pitched sounds like wind or rain.
This feature alone makes them stand out, although it does take a toll on the battery life, offering just 4 hours of playtime with ANC activated.
Despite this, the TWS1 Pro 2 doesn’t skimp on other fronts. Their comfortable and snug fit, combined with IP54 water and dust resistance, makes them a sturdy choice for both indoor and outdoor activities.
Phone calls are mostly crisp, thanks to microphones that prioritize your voice, and the Gaming Mode is a neat addition for those looking for synced audio and video playback.
Sound-wise, they deliver a well-balanced audio experience with a punchy bass that doesn’t overpower the natural mids and the smooth highs, catering well to a variety of music genres.
Pros:
- Outstanding ANC for the price.
- Comfortable fit and water-resistant design.
- Versatile sound profile suitable for many music types.
- Useful features like wind noise reduction and auto-pause.
Cons:
- Limited battery life with ANC on.
- Lacks features like multipoint connection and on-ear volume control.
Realme Buds Air 5 Pro
- Active Noise Cancellation: Up to 50dB ANC
- Driver Size: 11mm coaxial dual driver
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3, LDAC codec
- Battery Life: Up to 40 hours playback
- Design: Pebble-shaped, IPX5 water-resistant
- Features: 360° spatial audio, 40ms low latency, Realme Link app customization
The Realme Buds Air 5 Pro is making a significant impact, especially among the younger crowd, thanks to its trendy designs and effective marketing.
With features like active noise cancellation, high-resolution LDAC codec support, and an innovative dual-driver system, these earbuds are designed to provide a premium audio experience without the premium price tag.
The stylish pebble-shaped design is not just about looks; it’s practical, offering a comfortable fit and IPX5 water resistance.
Although they lack wireless charging and volume control through touch gestures, the Realme Buds Air 5 Pro more than makes up for it with its sound quality, battery life, and the customization available through the Realme Link app.
Pros:
- Excellent ANC and sound quality.
- Stylish design with comfortable fit.
- Impressive battery life.
- Customizable through Realme Link app.
Cons:
- Prone to scratches and smudges.
- No wireless charging.
- Lacks touch gesture for volume control.
Soundcore Life A3i
- Active Noise Cancellation: Effective at reducing darker background sounds
- Battery Life: About 5 hours with ANC on
- Controls: Physical buttons for track and volume control, ANC modes
- Water Resistance: IPX5 rain and sweat-proof
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, compatible with Soundcore app
- Features: 21 sound equalizers in the Soundcore app
The Soundcore Life A3i might fly under the radar compared to other Soundcore models, yet it stands out as a gem in the sub-$50 category.
The earbuds offer a snug fit once properly adjusted, making them comfortable for extended use.
They feature usable active noise cancelling that effectively tones down darker sounds and background noise, making them suitable for a variety of settings, though they may not completely silence chatter and traffic noises.
What sets the Life A3i apart are the physical buttons, a boon for those who struggle with touch controls during workouts or in cold weather.
The IPX5 rating ensures they’re resilient against rain and sweat, making them a great companion for sports enthusiasts.
Call quality is solid, with microphones that clearly pick up your voice, though performance can dip in windy conditions.
The sound quality is where the Life A3i truly shines. At lower volumes, you’re treated to a warm and relaxed soundstage, with the treble taking a backseat.
Crank up the volume, and the earbuds come alive with a surprisingly engaging sound profile.
The bass is punchy and controlled, even in complex tracks, while guitars and pianos sound rich and vocals are delivered with power.
With more treble emphasis than the Edifier TWS1 Pro 2 and quick, deep bass, the Life A3i has an uplifting sound signature that music lovers will appreciate.
Pros:
- Engaging sound with strong, controlled bass.
- Convenient physical buttons for easy control.
- Solid call quality, suitable for phone and video calls.
- Water and sweat resistance, ideal for sports.
Cons:
- Fit may require adjustment for optimal comfort and ANC performance.
- ANC doesn’t fully isolate against all external noises.
OnePlus Buds Z2
- Active Noise Cancellation: Yes, with a “Max” level for enhanced silence.
- Battery Life: Up to 38 hours without ANC, 7 hours per charge on the buds with ANC off, 5 hours with ANC.
- Charging: Quick charging – 10 minutes for approximately 5 hours of listening.
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2, with Fast Pair for Android.
- Water Resistance: IP55 for the buds, IPX4 for the charging case.
- Drivers: 11mm dynamic, emphasizing bass.
- Features: Triple microphones per earbud, touch controls, in-ear detection, Hey Melody app compatibility for customization.
The OnePlus Buds Z2, priced at $99, offer an appealing combination of features typically found in more expensive models.
They maintain the aesthetic of their predecessor, the Buds Z, while introducing significant enhancements like larger drivers for better sound and improved battery life for extended usage.
The inclusion of active noise cancellation and pass-through sound capabilities make them a formidable option against competitors like the Google Pixel Buds A-Series.
Design-wise, they are sleek and comfortable, suitable for long listening sessions and secure enough for active use, including sweat-inducing workouts.
The Buds Z2 deliver on sound quality, with a powerful bass and clear mids, though they may lean too much towards loudness, potentially overpowering finer musical details.
The transparency mode and noise cancellation features are well-executed, providing useful flexibility in various listening environments.
The Hey Melody app extends functionality for both Android and iOS users, offering customization that enhances user experience, although some advanced features like an equalizer are exclusive to OnePlus device users.
Pros:
- Excellent battery life with quick charging capabilities.
- Comfortable and secure fit, suitable for active use.
- Effective noise cancellation for the price point.
- Comprehensive control and customization through the Hey Melody app.
Cons:
- Sound tuning may favor bass and loudness over balance.
- Some features and customizations are restricted to OnePlus devices.
Final Words Best Affordable Earbuds on AliExpress
We’ve reached the end of our journey through some of the best and most affordable earbuds available on AliExpress.
Our list represents the top picks from an extensive testing process, focusing on those that not only come at a great price but also boast impressive performance.
While AliExpress is a treasure trove of countless audio gems, we’ve curated this selection based on direct experience and thorough review, ensuring that you get reliable recommendations that stand out in both quality and value.
Remember, the vast marketplace of AliExpress has much more to offer, so our list is just a starting point.
There are plenty of other fantastic earbuds out there waiting to be discovered. However, we’ve highlighted these particular models because they’ve passed our tests with flying colors and have received positive feedback from the community.
Whether you’re a casual listener, a discerning audiophile on a budget, or someone in between, we hope our guide helps you find the perfect pair of earbuds that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
FAQs on Best Cheap Earbuds on AliExpress
What are some of the best cheap wireless earbuds available on AliExpress?
- Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC
- Xiaomi Redmi Buds 5 Pro
- Anker Soundcore Space A40
- Edifier TWS1 Pro 2
- Realme Buds Air 5 Pro
- Soundcore Life A3i
- OnePlus Buds Z2
Are there any earbuds with exceptional battery life on AliExpress?
Yes, the Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC is Nearly 10 hours with ANC on, making it a top pick for those prioritizing long-lasting use.
Can I find earbuds suitable for sports and gym use on AliExpress?
Yes.
What should I look for in cheap wireless earbuds on AliExpress?
Key factors include sound quality, battery life, comfort, and connectivity features like Bluetooth 5.0 or higher. Also, consider if you need additional features like active noise cancellation or water resistance.
What about compatibility with iOS and Android devices?
Most earbuds available on the list are compatible with both iOS and Android devices, offering flexibility for users with different smartphones.
Which is the best cheap earbuds on Aliexpress?
Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC
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Nick, the Co-founder of Earbuds Arena, is a seasoned freelance tech journalist with over ten years of experience covering wearables, apps, headphones, and gadgets. When he’s not immersed in the tech world, you’ll likely find him unwinding with video games, going for a run, or enjoying a game of soccer on the field.