Wireless earbuds don't need to be expensive to sound great. We've tested 12 affordable earbuds available in the UK to find the best options under £50. Whether you need them for calls, music, or exercise, there's something here for you.
Our Top 3 Picks
1. Soundcore Space A40 (£45.99)
Rating: ★★★★★
The Soundcore Space A40 offers incredible value. They sound significantly more expensive than they cost, with excellent noise cancellation for the price point. Battery life is also impressive at 10 hours per charge.
What We Like
- Outstanding sound quality for the price
- Active noise cancellation (ANC) included
- 10-hour battery life
- Comfortable fit for extended wear
- Fast charging (10 min for 2 hours playback)
What to Consider
- App is essential for best experience
- Slightly bulkier charging case
2. JBL Tune Buds (£49.99)
Rating: ★★★★☆
JBL's Tune Buds are rock-solid earbuds with JBL's legendary sound signature. They're ideal if you prioritise comfort and reliability over cutting-edge features.
What We Like
- Pure, balanced JBL sound quality
- Excellent build quality and durability
- IP54 water resistance (sweat-proof for workouts)
- 8-hour battery life
- Simple, intuitive controls
What to Consider
- No active noise cancellation
- Slightly shorter battery than Soundcore
3. Anker Soundcore Life P3i (£34.99)
Rating: ★★★★☆
If you want to spend even less, the Life P3i is a fantastic budget option. Anker consistently punches above its weight, and these don't disappoint.
What We Like
- Exceptional value at £34.99
- 6-hour battery (24 hours with case)
- Active noise cancellation
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Touch controls
What to Consider
- Build quality is good but not premium
- Slightly narrower soundstage than premium models
What to Look for in Budget Earbuds
Sound Quality
Under £50, you won't get studio-quality sound, but you should expect balanced, clear audio suitable for music and calls. Look for earbuds with at least 5.8mm drivers.
Battery Life
Minimum 5 hours per charge is acceptable; 8+ hours is excellent. Don't forget the charging case—it typically provides 24-32 additional hours.
Noise Cancellation
Budget ANC is passable for trains and offices but won't match premium models. If you need strong ANC, expect to spend more.
Comfort & Fit
You'll wear these for hours. Look for multiple ear tip sizes and lightweight designs. Check reviews mentioning comfort for extended wear.
Water Resistance
IPX4 or better protects against sweat and light rain. Essential if you'll use them during exercise.
Comparison Table
| Model | Price | Battery | ANC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soundcore Space A40 | £45.99 | 10h | Yes |
| JBL Tune Buds | £49.99 | 8h | No |
| Anker Soundcore P3i | £34.99 | 6h | Yes |
Budget Earbuds FAQs
Do I need to spend more than £50 for good earbuds?
Not necessarily. These three options prove you can get excellent earbuds under £50. You'll find even better options at £80-150, but for casual listening and calls, these are perfect.
How long do cheap earbuds last?
Most quality budget earbuds last 2-3 years with daily use. Premium brands like JBL often offer longer support and warranty coverage.
Are wireless earbuds safe to use?
Yes. Wireless earbuds use Bluetooth, which operates at very low power levels and is safe for extended use. No special precautions needed.
Can I use them for working out?
Yes, if they have IPX4+ water resistance. All three of our picks are suitable for exercise and light rain. The Soundcore has the best ANC for busy environments.
Do they work with both iOS and Android?
Absolutely. Bluetooth is universal. All earbuds work with iPhones, Android phones, and any Bluetooth-enabled device.
Final Verdict
You don't need to spend a fortune for great wireless earbuds. The Soundcore Space A40 is our top pick—it's the best balance of features and price. If you want pure JBL sound, go for the Tune Buds. And if you're on a tight budget, the Anker P3i proves you can save money without sacrificing quality.
Ready to upgrade? Check these models on Amazon UK today.