Best USB-C earbuds in 2024

24 March 2024 (13:30)

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For when you forget to charge your Bluetooth earbuds — again

Wireless earbuds may be the in-ear or on-ear accessory of choice for most smartphone, tablet, and laptop owners, but there are a few drawbacks to going wire-free. Perhaps the biggest nuisance is having to worry about recharging your earbuds. It’s also pretty easy to misplace a set of wire-free buds. If you can relate, we recommend going with a pair of USB-C earbuds instead!

Now that most modern devices use USB-C ports, it’s never been easier to hook up a pair of wired headphones. We’ve put together a list of all our favorite models, with options for both budget-shoppers and audiophiles. We’ve also made sure to include first-party brands like Samsung and Google, along with reputable third-party manufacturers.

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Samsung AKG-Tuned Wired USB-C Earphones

Best overall

$17 $30 Save $13

The Samsung AKG-tuned wired USB USB-C earphones carry the legacy with pride. The audio quality is tuned by AKG, which exudes a premium vibe through the dual 10 mm drivers. Being connected to your phone’s USB port, it picks up digital audio signals exactly as the source, so you experience actual lossless audio. If you own a Samsung Galaxy Android phone and care about audio quality over everything, these earphones will be the best choice for you.

1More Penta Driver P50

Premium pick

$120 $170 Save $50

The Penta Driver P50 earbuds offer a rich sound, thanks to the 5-driver hybrid acoustics and Hi-Res technology. These buds’ dynamic DLC drivers and four planar units provide a broad frequency range. This translates to an immersive soundstage with wonderfully clear highs and warm lows. They also feature a detachable micro-miniature coaxial gold-plated cable, so if your cord ever wears out, you can replace it. They’re comfy as well and include multiple ear tip options.

iMangoo USB-C Earbuds

Best value

Offering excellent compatibility with almost any mobile device with audio output through the type-C port, the iMangoo USB-C earbuds give you solid value for money. The built-in DAC is good enough to retain the quality of even lossless tracks, while plated connectors ensure a stable connection. Although not as good as top-notch earbuds, the audio is ample for regular listening. Also, the magnets in the back of each earphone ensure easy storage and almost no tangle.

Logitech G333 Gaming Earphones

Best for gamers

If you’d prefer a lightweight alternative to bulky headsets, the Logitech G333 Gaming Earphones are an excellent option. The dual drivers deliver the detailed sound required for your favorite games, producing distortion-free highs/mids and warm lows. The in-line mic can’t compete with the mics you find on over-the-ear gaming headphones, but it’s plenty sensitive—your COD crew won’t have any trouble hearing you. Comfort-wise, these buds come with three silicone ear tips to ensure a firm yet cozy fit.

Google Pixel USB-C Earbuds

Best compatible with Google products like the Pixel Fold, the Google Pixel USB-C earbuds produce exceptional sound. The muted, clean aesthetic of Google’s signature style will fit most outfits and occasions, while the looped wire hook fits inside your ear folds, making a secure yet comfortable grip. And with these earbuds, you can enjoy true 24-bit lossless audio. Moreover, the single button also works with Google Assistant.

Cooya USB Type-C Earphones

$14 $16 Save $2

The Cooya USB-C earphones are known for their compatibility and pair with almost anything that can fire audio signals out of a USB-C port. They come with a 4-foot-long cable curled up in a nice case, are ergonomically built to fit comfortably in your ears, and have play controls to boot. In addition, the built-in DAC can decode some of the most advanced audio codecs offered by Android and Apple phones.

7Hz Salnotes Zero

If the cable comes out of your earbud, they’re normally ruined, but Linsoul made the 7Hz Salnotes Zero’s wire detachable, allowing you to more safely store the buds when they’re not in use or replace the cable should it get broken somehow. With stainless steel faceplates, oxygen-free copper cables, and 10mm dynamic drivers, these buds will not disappoint.

JLab JBuds Pro

With 10mm drivers delivering clean, crisp sound, interchangeable gel fins and tips for a custom fit, and a built-in microphone with in-line controls, there’s a great deal to appreciate about these wired earbuds. For only $30, they provide exceptional value.

Elgin Rumble

What makes the Elgin Rumble special is that they’re OSHA compliant, meaning that they offer up to 27dB hearing protection. You can use these on work sites while next to loud equipment without worrying about hearing damage. They also have an IP67 rating, so you don’t have to worry about dust or water damaging them during use. And they sound pretty good, too.

Skullcandy Set In-Ear USB-C wired headphones white background

Skullcandy Set USB-C Earbuds

$25 $32 Save $7

For people with smartphones without a 3.5mm jack, the Skullcandy USB-C wired earbuds are perfect. They look beautiful with exquisitely shaped curves, and the build is light and very comfortable. They are also on the bassy side with rich and warm sound. The cherry on top: these buds have a great mic for hassle-free calls.

Adprotech USB Type-C magnetic wired earphones white background

Adprotech USB-C Earbuds

Need high-resolution acoustics out of your phone? Then, ditch the standard earbuds and use these Adprotech type-C wired earphones. The DAC built into the USB-C plug can convert high-bitrate audio into near-premium analog sound, which feels unbiased except for some extra bass. The build quality is great, with magnetic backs to the ear pads and soft hooks to hold them securely in your ears, so you can use them while doing light exercise, too.

Apple USB-C EarPods

$18 $20 Save $2

Apple EarPods may seem old school, but you can get a pair with USB-C to keep up with the times. They have in-line controls for easy adjustments and can even support lossless and spatial audio. They sound good, too, which is always important, and comfort is about on par as well, though there are no silicone ear tips, so they won’t always stay snug.

Belkin SoundForm Wired In-Ear USB-C Earbuds

$25 $30 Save $5

Available in white or black finishes, the Belkin SoundForm USB-C buds are designed to give you the perfect sound and an ultra-comfortable fit. It’s also nice to see a company care about keeping earbuds tangle-free, with a flattened wire design. These earbuds are also sweat and splash-resistant, and include a multi-control button for playback and call commands.

UliX Rider USB-C Earbuds

$20 $25 Save $5

Compatible with just about any USB-C device out there, the UliX Rider USB-C Earbuds are engineered to deliver amazing sound quality and passive noise isolation. On top of small, medium, and large ear tips and a handy carrying case, the ends of both UliX buds will magnetically attach to each other. For less than $25, these USB-C buds are definitely hard to beat!

Symphonized Wooden USB-C Earbuds

Nothing says “fancy” like custom crafting for a pair of earbuds. Such is the case with the Symphonized Wooden USB-C Earbuds, which use all-natural Bubinga wood for the exterior of both 8mm drivers. Other features include terrific sound quality with passive noise isolation, a multi-command button, and a built-in microphone.

Avantree C171 USB-C Earbuds

$17 $19 Save $2

Designed to hook over your ears for increased comfort and a secure fit, the Avantree C171 USB-C Earbuds deliver pulse-pounding sound all day, every day. And the best part? You won’t have to worry about them falling out of your ears and getting lost. We’re also big fans of the built-in mic that can be used to make crystal-clear phone calls.