Three years ago, you couldn’t find noise cancelling earbuds under $100 that didn’t sound tinny or fall out of your ears after twenty minutes. I tested eight pairs in 2026 and the gap between budget and premium has shrunk more than I expected. Some of these budget ANC earbuds now deliver 70 to 85% noise reduction at a fraction of the price of flagship models.
In this guide, I’m breaking down the best noise cancelling earbuds under $100 that I actually used. I wore each pair on commutes, during work calls, and on long walks to test real-world ANC performance. I also checked battery life claims, comfort over multi-hour sessions, and call quality in noisy environments.
You’ll find my top three picks highlighted first, then a comparison table covering all eight pairs, followed by detailed individual reviews. I wrap things up with a buying guide and a FAQ section that answers the questions I see most often in forums like Reddit’s r/Earbuds.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks at a (September 2026)
Best Noise Cancelling Earbuds Under $100 in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Soundcore P30i by Anker |
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Check Latest Price |
 TOZO NC9 |
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Check Latest Price |
 EarFun Air Pro 4 |
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Check Latest Price |
 Soundcore P40i |
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Check Latest Price |
 Nothing Ear (a) |
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Check Latest Price |
 Beats Studio Buds+ |
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Check Latest Price |
 AOC ANC Earbuds |
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Check Latest Price |
 JLab Go Pods ANC |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Soundcore P30i by Anker – The Phone Stand Performer
Soundcore P30i by Anker Noise Cancelling Earbuds, Hands-Free Viewing
42dB ANC
10H Battery+45H Case
2-in-1 Phone Stand Case
Pros
- Innovative 2-in-1 case doubles as phone stand
- 42dB noise reduction with adaptive technology
- 10H single charge plus 45H with case
- 4-mic AI for clear calls
- IP54 splash resistance
Cons
- ANC playtime drops to around 6 hours per charge
I used the Soundcore P30i for two cross-country flights and a week of train commutes. The 42dB active noise cancellation is a noticeable step up from the older P20i, and it tames engine drone effectively. For under $30, this is one of the most well-rounded cheap wireless earbuds with ANC I’ve tested this year.
The case is the headline feature. It flips open and folds into a phone stand, which sounds gimmicky until you’re on a flight watching downloaded shows. The 10-hour single-charge battery dropped to about 6 hours with ANC on, which matched the company’s own claim.
Sound quality leans bass-forward thanks to the BassUp technology. If you like punchy low end for hip-hop and electronic music, this is a strength. For acoustic tracks, the mids are slightly recessed but still clear enough for podcasts. The 4-mic AI call system held up well in my kitchen fan test.
Bluetooth 5.4 keeps the connection stable, and pairing was instant on both my Android phone and Windows laptop. The Soundcore app lets you tweak EQ presets and ANC strength, which is rare at this price point.
Build quality and daily durability
The IP54 rating means sweat and light rain are fine, but I’d avoid submerging them. The case hinge feels sturdy after two months of pocket carry. The earbud stems are short, which helps with side-sleeping comfort if you wear them in bed.
Who should skip this pair
Hardcore audiophiles who prioritize neutral sound will want to look elsewhere. The bass boost is real, and the app’s EQ helps but won’t fully tame it. Also, if you need over 8 hours of continuous ANC playback for a single session, the P30i won’t quite get there.
2. TOZO NC9 – The Waterproof Marathon Runner
TOZO NC9 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds, 60H, LED Display
45dB Hybrid ANC
60H Total
IPX8 Waterproof
6 Mic ENC
Pros
- Massive 60H total battery life
- IPX8 fully waterproof rating
- 45dB hybrid ANC with strong low-frequency blocking
- 6-mic ENC for clear outdoor calls
- 32 EQ presets via app
Cons
- Smaller 6mm driver limits soundstage depth
The TOZO NC9 has been my go-to recommendation for gym-goers for the past year. The IPX8 rating means I can rinse them under the tap after a sweaty run, and the 60-hour total battery life means I charge the case about once a week. For under $30, the 45dB hybrid ANC punches well above its weight.
I wore these on a 14-hour travel day that included two flights and a train ride. The TOZO NC9 blocked out cabin noise more effectively than the Soundcore P30i, especially in the low-frequency range. Hybrid ANC uses both feedforward and feedback microphones, and you can hear the difference in busy cafes.
The LED battery display on the case is a small but genuinely useful feature. No more guessing how much juice is left. The 6-mic ENC system kept my voice clear during a sidewalk call next to a busy road, which is a tough test for any earbud.
Bluetooth 5.3 provides a stable connection, and the TOZO app offers 32 EQ options plus customizable touch controls. Sound signature is balanced out of the box, leaning slightly warm. The 6mm driver is smaller than some competitors, but the tuning makes up for it.
Fit and long-session comfort
The included ear tips run small. I swapped to third-party memory foam tips for a better seal, which also boosted ANC performance. Once you get the right tips, these stay put during runs and long work sessions.
Where the TOZO NC9 falls short
There’s no multipoint connection, so I can’t connect to my laptop and phone at the same time. Also, there’s no wireless charging, which is fair at this price. The case is a bit bulky compared to premium options.
3. EarFun Air Pro 4 – The Audiophile’s Budget Pick
EarFun Air Pro 4 Adaptive Hybrid Noise Canceling Wireless Earbuds, Qualcomm Snapdragon Sound, aptX™ Lossless, 6 Mics AI CVC 8.0 Call, LDAC Hi-Res Audio, 52H Playtime, Bluetooth 5.4, in-Ear Detection
50dB Adaptive ANC
aptX Lossless
LDAC Hi-Res
52H Playtime
Pros
- aptX Lossless and LDAC codec support
- 50dB adaptive hybrid ANC
- Qualcomm Snapdragon Sound certification
- Multipoint with two devices
- CNET Editor's Choice award winner
Cons
- Higher price than most budget options
The EarFun Air Pro 4 earned the CNET Editor’s Choice award, and after two months of daily use, I understand why. This is the best noise cancelling earbuds under $100 pick if you care about audio quality above all else. The combination of aptX Lossless and LDAC support delivers Hi-Res audio that most budget earbuds simply can’t match.
Adaptive hybrid ANC goes up to 50dB, and it dynamically adjusts to your environment. Walking from a quiet office to a noisy street, the earbuds automatically increased noise cancellation without me touching anything. Multipoint connection lets me pair to my phone and laptop simultaneously, which is a feature I’d pay extra for.
The 11-hour single-charge battery is generous, and the case extends that to 52 hours total. Six mics with AI CVC 8.0 keep calls crystal clear. I tested these in a wind tunnel-style setup, and my voice came through clean even at 15 mph wind.
Sound is balanced and detailed, with controlled bass that doesn’t bleed into the mids. The Qualcomm Snapdragon Sound certification means Android users with compatible phones get the full Hi-Res experience. iPhone users get AAC, which still sounds excellent.
Codec support and who benefits
LDAC and aptX Lossless only work on Android devices with compatible hardware. If you’re on iPhone, you won’t get the Hi-Res benefit, but the standard AAC performance is still strong. The EarFun app provides extensive EQ customization.
Reasons to look elsewhere
At around $63, this is the priciest option on my list. If you only need basic ANC for an office or commute, the Soundcore P40i offers better value. Also, in-ear detection sometimes misfired when I pulled the earbuds out quickly.
4. Soundcore P40i by Anker – The Long-Lasting All-Rounder
Soundcore P40i by Anker Noise Cancelling Earbuds with Adaptive ANC
Adaptive ANC
60H Total
11mm Drivers
Wireless Charging
Pros
- Massive 12H single-charge battery
- 60H total with case
- Adaptive ANC adjusts to surroundings
- 11mm drivers with BassUp
- Wireless charging support
Cons
- No LDAC or aptX codec support
If battery life is your number one priority, the Soundcore P40i is hard to beat. I got 12 hours of continuous playback with ANC on, and the case pushed total playtime to 60 hours. For commuters and travelers who hate charging, this is a dream. The adaptive noise cancelling is solid, though not class-leading.
The 2-in-1 case design returns here, and it’s the same phone stand feature I liked on the P30i. Wireless charging is a nice bonus that I didn’t expect at this price. The 11mm drivers with BassUp technology deliver punchy, energetic sound that works well for pop and hip-hop.
Adaptive ANC is the differentiator over the cheaper P30i. It adjusts automatically to your environment, so you don’t have to fiddle with the app when you move from a quiet room to a busy street. Six mics with AI algorithm handle calls well, though the EarFun Air Pro 4 is slightly clearer in windy conditions.
Bluetooth 5.3 is stable, and the Soundcore app is one of the best in the budget category. EQ presets, ANC strength, and touch controls are all customizable.
Where the P40i beats the competition
Battery life is the headline. The 12-hour single charge is roughly 30% longer than the EarFun Air Pro 4. Wireless charging is rare in this price range. The adaptive ANC is smart enough that I rarely needed to switch modes manually.
Limitations to know about
No LDAC or aptX means Android audiophiles won’t get Hi-Res audio. The 11mm drivers sound great for casual listening but lack the detail of the EarFun’s hybrid setup. ANC strength is good but not as aggressive as the TOZO NC9’s 45dB hybrid system.
5. Nothing Ear (a) – The Design-Forward Smart Pick
Nothing Ear (a) Wireless Earbuds, 45dB Hybrid Noise Cancelling Earbuds, Hi-Res Audio, Advanced Equaliser, Dual Connect, 6 Mics, 42.5H Playtime Ear Buds Wireless Bluetooth, Black
45dB Smart ANC
11mm Driver
42.5H
Dual Connect
Pros
- Distinctive transparent design
- 45dB smart ANC with adaptive mode
- 11mm driver with clear voice tech
- Fast charge: 10 min for 10 hours
- Dual-device connectivity
Cons
- ChatGPT features need Nothing phone
- Not Prime eligible
The Nothing Ear (a) stands out visually, and that’s intentional. The transparent case and earbud design turn heads, but there’s real substance underneath. The 45dB smart active noise cancellation adapts to your environment in real time, and the 11mm driver delivers detailed, balanced sound.
I tested these for a week of work-from-home sessions and daily walks. The smart ANC adjusted smoothly when I moved from a quiet home office to a noisy coffee shop. The 11mm driver is more powerful than the previous Nothing Ear 2, with better bass response and clearer mids.
The clear voice technology reduces wind interference by 60% according to Nothing’s tests, and my calls in a windy park sounded clean. The fast charge is impressive: 10 minutes in the case gives you 10 hours of playback, which saved me on a forgotten-charge morning.
Dual-device connectivity works well, and I could swap between my phone and laptop without re-pairing. The Nothing X app provides an advanced equalizer with multiple presets and a custom mode.
Special features worth noting
ChatGPT integration is unique, but it only works if you own a Nothing phone. The low latency mode reduces audio delay for mobile gaming, which I tested with a few rounds of PUBG Mobile.
Why I rated it lower than competitors
Not Prime eligible means longer shipping for many buyers. The 4.2 average rating is slightly below the 4.3-4.4 range most competitors hit. Some users report the touch controls are too sensitive, registering accidental taps.
6. Beats Studio Buds+ – The Premium Crossover
Beats Studio Buds + | True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds, Enhanced Apple & Android Compatibility, Built-in Microphone, Sweat Resistant Bluetooth Headphones, Spatial Audio – Black/Gold
Active ANC
36H Total
Spatial Audio
IPX4
Pros
- Strong Apple and Android compatibility
- Rich immersive sound with custom acoustic platform
- Spatial audio support for movies
- IPX4 sweat and water resistant
- Three larger voice-targeting mics
Cons
- Listed above the $100 budget
- ANC not as aggressive as some budget options
The Beats Studio Buds+ straddle the line between budget and mid-tier. Listed above the strict $100 ceiling, but frequently discounted, they offer a different value proposition. The custom acoustic platform delivers rich, immersive sound, and the seamless Apple and Android compatibility is hard to match.
Spatial audio support is the standout for movie watching. I tested these with an iPad streaming Dolby Atmos content, and the immersive effect was impressive. The 36-hour total battery life is solid, though the TOZO NC9 and Soundcore P40i last significantly longer.
Four silicone tip sizes ship in the box, which helps with fit. The three larger voice-targeting mics produce clean calls, and the IPX4 rating handles sweat during workouts. ANC is effective against low-frequency noise but less aggressive than the TOZO NC9 or EarFun Air Pro 4.
Class 1 Bluetooth gives you extended range. I walked two rooms away from my phone without dropouts.
Why Beats earns a spot on the list
For iPhone users who want reliable one-tap pairing and spatial audio, the Beats Studio Buds+ deliver. For Android users, the Fast Pair and universal compatibility work just as well. The sound profile is bass-forward, which suits pop, hip-hop, and electronic genres.
Where the budget math breaks down
At the full listed price, this pair costs more than every other option on my list combined. ANC is good but not class-leading. The 4.0 rating is the lowest on this list, and 14% of users give it one star, mostly citing ANC expectations versus premium competitors.
7. AOC Noise Cancelling Earbuds – The Newcomer Surprise
AOC Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds, 39dB ANC, 45H, LED Display, Black
39dB ANC
45H Total
13mm Driver
20ms Latency
Pros
- Outstanding 4.8 average rating
- Strong 39dB active noise cancelling
- 20ms low latency for gaming
- 13mm large dynamic driver
- 36 EQ combos via app
Cons
- Lower review count (newer product)
- ANC not quite at premium levels
The AOC Noise Cancelling Earbuds are my dark horse pick. They launched with a 4.8 average rating across 600+ reviews, which is rare for a budget brand. The 39dB active noise cancelling handles daily commute noise well, and the 13mm dynamic drivers deliver impressive bass response.
I tried these for mobile gaming first, and the 20ms latency mode is genuinely useful. The audio stayed in sync with on-screen action, which is a real issue with many budget earbuds. The 6-mic system produced clear calls in my testing.
Battery life hits 45 hours total with the case, and the LED display on the case shows the exact percentage remaining. The AOC companion app offers 36 custom EQ combinations plus six preset modes, which is more flexibility than most competitors at this price.
Bluetooth 5.4 provides stable connection, and the 20-meter range is generous. The case is compact, and the IPX rating handles sweat and light rain.
What makes AOC stand out
The 4.8 rating across hundreds of reviews is a strong signal. Users consistently praise the value proposition and clear call quality. The 12-month warranty plus 60-day return guarantee shows the brand stands behind the product.
Caveats with newer brands
Lower review count means less long-term reliability data. ANC is good for the price but not at the level of the TOZO NC9 or EarFun Air Pro 4. The brand is less established, so firmware updates may be slower to roll out.
8. JLab Go Pods ANC – The Affordable Starter Pick
JLab Go Pods ANC, True Wireless Earbuds, Active Noise Cancelling, Bluetooth, Black
Hybrid ANC
26H+ Total
IP55
Bluetooth Multipoint
Pros
- Affordable entry point with ANC
- Bluetooth multipoint for two devices
- IP55 sweat and water resistant
- 10-minute quick charge for 1 hour
- JLab two-year warranty
Cons
- Short integrated charging cable
- Default EQ may need tweaking
The JLab Go Pods ANC are the most affordable noise cancelling earbuds I tested, and they punch above their weight. For around $20, you get hybrid ANC, IP55 sweat resistance, and Bluetooth multipoint. These are the earbuds I’d recommend to someone buying their first pair of wireless earbuds.
ANC is effective against consistent low-frequency noise like HVAC hum and bus engines. The 7.5-hour single-charge battery is enough for a full work day, and the case extends total playtime to 26+ hours. The 10-minute quick charge gives you an hour of playback, which is useful in a pinch.
Bluetooth multipoint works reliably, and the JLab app lets you customize ANC modes and touch controls. The stem design is comfortable for extended wear, and the IP55 rating handles sweaty workouts and unexpected rain.
Sound quality is solid for the price, though the default EQ boosts bass and treble in a way that can fatigue some listeners. The app’s custom EQ fixes this easily.
Why the Go Pods ANC earn a spot
JLab has a track record of reliable budget audio gear, and the two-year warranty is double what most budget brands offer. The integrated charging cable in the case is a clever design that means one less cable to lose.
Where budget cuts show
The integrated charging cable is short, which limits where you can place the case to charge. Some users report the earbuds can fall out during vigorous exercise. ANC is not as strong as the TOZO NC9 or EarFun Air Pro 4.
How We Tested the Best Noise Cancelling Earbuds Under $100
My testing process for this guide covered four weeks of daily use across all eight pairs. I wore each pair for at least three hours per day, switching between them to compare comfort, ANC strength, and call quality. I also ran standardized tests: airplane cabin noise played through speakers at 75dB, a kitchen fan at 60dB for office simulation, and a windy sidewalk at 15 mph for call quality.
Battery claims were verified by playing music at 60% volume with ANC on, timing how long each pair lasted. I checked claimed charging speeds by timing quick-charge sessions.
Testing methodology notes
Sound quality is subjective, but I tried to evaluate each pair with a standard playlist covering bass-heavy tracks, acoustic music, podcasts, and classical recordings. I tested calls in three environments: quiet room, busy street, and windy conditions.
I prioritized real-world use cases over spec sheets. A pair that ticks every spec box but falls out of your ear during a walk is worse than a slightly less capable pair that stays put.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in Budget ANC Earbuds
Buying the best noise cancelling earbuds under $100 comes down to a few key decisions. Here’s what to think about before you spend your money.
ANC strength and hybrid vs. single-mode
Active noise cancellation comes in two flavors: feedforward (mics on the outside) and feedback (mics on the inside). Hybrid ANC uses both and is generally more effective. The EarFun Air Pro 4’s 50dB hybrid ANC is the strongest on this list, followed by the TOZO NC9 at 45dB.
For office and home use, 35-40dB ANC is plenty. For commutes and flights, look for 40dB or higher.
Bluetooth codecs explained
Codecs determine how audio is compressed and sent from your device to the earbuds. SBC is universal but lower quality. AAC is what iPhones use by default. aptX and LDAC are higher-quality codecs mostly found on Android. The EarFun Air Pro 4 supports both aptX Lossless and LDAC, which is rare under $100.
If you mainly use an iPhone, codec support matters less. If you’re on Android, LDAC support unlocks Hi-Res audio.
Battery life and charging
Look for at least 6 hours of single-charge playback with ANC on. Anything less won’t survive a long flight or full work day. Total battery with the case should be 30+ hours for casual users, 45+ for heavy users.
Wireless charging is a nice bonus that’s become more common. Fast charging is also worth checking: 10 minutes in the case for 1-2 hours of playback is a useful safety net.
Fit, comfort, and IP ratings
Fit matters more than any spec sheet. If the earbuds don’t seal properly, ANC won’t work and bass will disappear. Most pairs include multiple tip sizes; try them all.
IP ratings tell you about water and dust resistance. IPX4 handles sweat and light rain. IP55 and above can handle more demanding conditions. The TOZO NC9’s IPX8 rating is the highest on this list.
Multipoint and companion apps
Multipoint connection lets you pair to two devices at once. This is essential if you switch between a phone and laptop. The EarFun Air Pro 4, Soundcore P40i, Nothing Ear (a), and JLab Go Pods ANC all support multipoint.
Companion apps let you tweak EQ, ANC strength, and touch controls. Soundcore, TOZO, Nothing, EarFun, JLab, and AOC all offer free apps for their respective models.
Frequently Asked Questions About Budget ANC Earbuds
Are cheap noise cancelling earbuds under $100 actually worth buying?
Yes, cheap noise cancelling earbuds have improved dramatically. The best noise cancelling earbuds under $100 in 2026 deliver 70 to 85% noise reduction, which is enough for most commutes, office work, and travel. You sacrifice some refinement compared to $200+ flagships, but for daily use, the gap is smaller than you might expect.
What is the difference between ANC and passive noise isolation?
Active noise cancellation uses microphones and inverse sound waves to cancel external noise, especially low-frequency sounds like engine drone and HVAC hum. Passive noise isolation is the physical seal from the earbud blocking higher-frequency sounds. Good ANC earbuds use both for the best effect.
Which earbuds have the best battery life under $100?
The TOZO NC9 and Soundcore P40i both deliver 60 hours of total playtime with the case. For single-charge battery, the Soundcore P40i hits 12 hours with ANC on, and the TOZO NC9 reaches 10 hours with ANC. Both are excellent choices if battery life is your priority.
Do budget earbuds have good noise cancellation?
Modern budget ANC earbuds have surprisingly good noise cancellation. The EarFun Air Pro 4 reaches 50dB of adaptive hybrid ANC, which rivals earbuds that cost three times as much. The TOZO NC9 hits 45dB. For most real-world environments, these are more than enough.
What features should I look for in budget earbuds under $100?
Focus on ANC strength (40dB or higher for noisy environments), battery life (6+ hours single charge), IP rating (IPX4 minimum for workouts), and codec support (LDAC or aptX for Android users). Multipoint connection is a nice bonus if you switch between devices frequently.
Final Verdict: The Best Noise Cancelling Earbuds Under $100
After testing all eight pairs, the EarFun Air Pro 4 remains my top pick for the best noise cancelling earbuds under $100. The combination of 50dB adaptive ANC, aptX Lossless and LDAC support, and 52-hour total battery life is hard to beat. It earned the CNET Editor’s Choice for good reason.
For pure value, the Soundcore P40i is the clear winner. You get 60 hours of total battery, adaptive ANC, and wireless charging at a price that makes the EarFun look expensive. The TOZO NC9 is the best pick under $30, with IPX8 waterproofing and 60-hour battery.
No matter which pair you pick from this list, you’ll get genuine noise cancellation that handles commutes, office work, and travel well. The best noise cancelling earbuds under $100 have come a long way, and any of these eight would be a solid buy in 2026.