Yeah, we see you — we like wired earbuds, too. You may be just as annoyed as we were when tech companies started removing the trusty aux input in favor of thinner phones and tablets. It's slim pickings out there for wired earbud fans, but thankfully, some brands are still making USB-C earbuds. No, we're not against wireless earbuds (like the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro), as they offer convenience and excellent portability. However, some wireless earbuds tend to be more expensive, and a heftier price tag does not always translate to better sound quality. Luckily, USB-C earbuds offer impressive audio without burning a hole in your pocket.
One of the big advantages of corded alternatives is their inherent convenience. Sure, the cords might be annoying when they start bobbing around during a run or get all tangled in your pocket. But honestly, it's a small price to pay if you don't want to deal with the latency issues — those little pauses or delays that hit at the worst possible moments when watching videos or gaming. Not to mention the advantage they have when your wireless earbuds run out of juice. Just plug in your USB-C earbuds, and you're ready to go. If anything, they make for an affordable backup pair.
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Samsung AKG-tuned Wired USB-C Earphones
Best overallThe 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.
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1More Penta Driver P50
Premium pickThe 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.
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Motorola Earbuds 3C S
Best valueA lower price doesn’t have to mean lower quality, which is why Motorola’s USB-C earbuds stand out. You’re not going to get deep bass, but the 9.4 drivers produce an even sound with impressive highs and lows for every listening situation. These earbuds also come with three ear tips and the ergonomic design sits well in most ears, perfect for long study sessions. There’s even a mic and an in-line control button for managing calls. That’s not bad for $13.
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Logitech G333 Gaming Earphones
Best for gamersIf 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.
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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.
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Cooya USB Type-C Earphones
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Skullcandy Set in-ear earbuds
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.
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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.
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iMangoo USB-C Earbuds Lake Blue
With excellent compatibility to 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.
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Titacute Wired USB-C Earbuds
Choose the Titacute wired USB-C earbuds for your USB audio-enabled devices for their style. They come with all the good stuff, like extra ear tips, a clip holder, a carrying case, and in-line controls for volume, call, and music. Plus, the cord is made out of braided nylon that looks like it can withstand a tug-of-war. The DAC can convert most high-bitrate audio codecs, but the drivers fall a bit short of the mark.
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HappyAudio W1-C
If you are looking for something simple to use with your USB-C-only phone, choose the HappyAudio W1-C wired USB-C earphones. They are compatible with Samsung and Google phones, as well as other leading brands with USB-C audio output. These buds sport a natural look combined with lag-free distortion-free audio. A robust in-line mic facilitates reliable calling capacity, and a 3.5mm variety is also available. -
Benewy Type-C Earphones
With a polished plastic silver-white body, the Benewy Type-C earphones pull off a stylish, contemporary look. They have a high-quality passive DAC chip built right into the USB-C plug to convert phone, tablet, console, and digital signals to high-quality analog audio. They are very comfortable in-ear, though the fit leaves something to be desired. However, the mic, call, volume, and playback controls are built in-line and easy to use. -
WamGra USB-C Headphones
Created mostly for MacBooks and iPads, the WamGra USB-C headphones are compatible with most Pixel, Samsung, and OnePlus devices as well as certain Windows laptops. They carry a powerful DAC that doesn't fail to deliver a rich sound. The in-line control buttons are tactile and respond well while allowing you to control calls, media, and volume. These earbuds are comfortable but fit rather loosely.
Why USB-C wired earbuds are a smart choice
If you're debating wired versus wireless earbuds, there are a few things to consider. First, good wired earbuds don't have any latency, meaning your phone's screen content and the audio will always be in sync. Secondly, almost all smartphones come with a USB-C port that they can use to fire high-quality audio, which is something Bluetooth can't do. Also, you do away with all the charging hassle related to wireless headphones. And to sweeten the deal, wired buds save a lot of money compared to wireless options.
Considering all of the above, we find that the Samsung AKG-tuned wired earphones check all the right boxes. They champion all the metrics with expertly tuned audio reproduction and sturdy build. Plus, they pair well with a Samsung handset. If you don't mind spending a few more clams, 1More's Penta Driver P50 boasts high-res audio and premium cables. They're also the only earbuds on our list developed by an Emmy award-winning sound engineer. That's gotta count for something, right?
We don't all have $170 to spare, and that's okay because the Motorola Earbuds 3C S offers you a way to enjoy some ear candy on a budget. Will the sound quality match our premium pick? No, but for $13, you're getting reliable mids and decent lows. And that built-in mic is a nice perk as well.
Really, any of these USB-C earbuds are great, and it may not be a bad idea to order a couple of pairs and test them yourself. After all, your ears are the best judge.