The 3 best budget wireless earbuds of 2025: Quality without overpaying

In 2025 the budget TWS market exploded: for 30–50 dollars you can now buy earbuds with ANC, solid battery life, and balanced sound that match flagships in everyday use. The editorial team of Palach selected three standouts — Huawei FreeBuds SE 4, OnePlus Nord Buds 3, and CMF Buds 2 — based on tests from Scarbir, SoundGuys, and CNET. They are ideal for music, calls, and sports, and current discounts make them even more affordable.

Huawei FreeBuds SE 4: the best balance of price and ANC

These updated Huawei earbuds finally bring active noise cancellation to the budget segment. The short-stem design with silicone tips is comfortable even after long sessions, and the oval case fits easily into a pocket. The 10 mm drivers deliver clean, balanced sound with an emphasis on midrange — vocals and instruments are detailed without an overboosted bass. Six microphones ensure excellent call clarity, and IP54 protects against sweat and rain.

Key features include ANC with three modes (up to 25 dB), touch controls, the Huawei AI Life app for EQ, and Bluetooth 5.4. Battery life is excellent: 10 hours without ANC (50 with the case). Scarbir tests confirm that they are slightly behind the Oppo Enco Air3 in bass but more versatile overall. Price: 35–45 dollars, or from 29 dollars with AliExpress discounts.

OnePlus Nord Buds 3: a bass-focused option for music lovers

OnePlus did not cut corners on sound: the 12.4 mm drivers with a titanium diaphragm and BassWave technology produce deep, punchy bass that works well for EDM and rock. The earbuds are well balanced with good instrument separation, and IP55 protection makes them suitable for running or gym workouts. ANC up to 32 dB reduces transport noise, while transparency mode lets important sounds through.

Features include Google Fast Pair, the Sound Master EQ in the companion app, gesture controls, and LDAC support for hi-res audio. Battery life reaches 12 hours without ANC (43 with the case). According to Engadget, the microphone outperforms the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC, and the price (40–50 dollars) makes them a hit for OnePlus fans. Amazon discounts start at 35 dollars.

CMF Buds 2: Nothing design with 55 hours of use

Nothing’s sub-brand stands out with design: the jewelry box-like case with a transparent dial for volume and track control looks more like an accessory than a gadget. The 11 mm drivers with Dirac Opteo and Ultra Bass 2.0 deliver rich sound with punchy low end and clear highs — premium-level performance for 40 dollars. Six microphones improve call quality, and IP55 ensures resistance to moisture.

Features include ANC, spatial audio, Google Fast Pair and Swift Pair, and transparency mode. Battery life is record-breaking: 13.5 hours without ANC (55 with the case). SoundGuys praises the customizable EQ, while Reddit users highlight the distinctive design. The only drawback is that the bass may feel too aggressive for classical music. Price: 35–45 dollars, around 30 dollars during sales.

In brief

Huawei FreeBuds SE 4 (29–45 dollars) offer ANC and 50-hour battery life; OnePlus Nord Buds 3 (35–50 dollars) provide strong bass and are great for sports; CMF Buds 2 (30–45 dollars) combine long battery life with a unique design. All three rank among the best under 50 dollars in 2025 tests, with IP54 or IP55 protection and companion apps. Choose based on bass preference (OnePlus) or design (CMF), and look for discounts on AliExpress or Amazon for maximum value.