Science

Best AirPod Clones for Cheap

These AirPod alternatives cost less and are just as powerful.

by Dorian Smith-Garcia
Unsplash / Barrett Ward

Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock, you know that Apple recently released their AirPods. These wireless earbuds offer Bluetooth technology, also charge wirelessly, and are designed to seamlessly integrate into the general Apple universe with their iPhones, Apple Watches, and other devices. But they also cost $199, meaning that for many consumers—even current Apple consumers—they’re not a realistic option. So, what’s a person to do when they want to be one of the cool kids with wireless earbuds but they don’t necessarily want to spend $200? They find these affordable alternatives that cost a fraction of the price and offer the same features.

Cshidworld True Wireless Stereo Earphones

Not everyone loves the white earbuds that are synonymous with Apple products. And if this describes you, Cshidworld’s sleek black wireless earbuds will be a welcome change. The Bluetooth 5.0 and HD Stereo means you’ll enjoy clear audio fidelity whether you’re chatting on a call or listening to audio. The one-step pairing makes these earphones easy to use, and you can get up to seven hours of continuous playtime with just one charge. The case can charge your earphones up to five times before it needs to be recharged. The water-resistant earphones come with a wireless charging case that helps them charge faster.

Hexdeer Wireless Earbuds

These multifunctional earbuds work with iOS and Android devices. The Bluetooth headphones each feature sound chips and deep surround bass. The built-in mic allows for clear conversation. The ergonomic design of the Hexdeer earbuds creates comfortable extended wear and is also sweat-proof to keep them from slipping even if you use them at the gym. Bluetooth 5.0 means you can easily pair these earbuds with your devices with no issue. The Hexdeer earbuds also come with their own wireless charging case. And the intuitive buttons makes pausing music and answering calls easy to do.

ZBC I9X Truly Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds

If your goal is to find a pair of earbuds that looks just like the Apple AirPods but for significantly less, then these are a great solution. In addition to other common features like HD quality sound and easy pairing, the 9X wireless Bluetooth earbuds also offer noise cancellation. The CVC echo noise reduction also helps to remove common environment noise that can interfere with phone calls and music playback enjoyment. The ZBC I9X earbuds also come with a wireless charging case that can recharge your earbuds up to 4 times when it’s fully charged.

SoundPEATS True Wireless Earbuds

One of the biggest features on the SoundPEATS wireless earbuds is that they automatically power on once you remove them from their case and power off when they’re returned to the case. These earbuds also feature Bluetooth 5.0 for easy pairing and true sound technology for clear playback and robust bass. When fully charged, the earbuds offer four hours of playback and use and the case will charge the earbuds a total of five times before it needs to be recharged. The SoundPEATS also come with three different sizes of ear tips for a comfortable fit.

Topicy Wireless Earbuds with Charging Case

These wireless earbuds are also similar in design to Apple’s AirPods but are much more budget-friendly. Topicy also features Bluetooth 5.0 and promises to offer 200 hours of standby battery time. The earbuds can be used in unison or you can share an earbud with someone else and pair each bud with separate devices for personal use. Multifunctionality through the single button makes it easy to answer and end calls, as well as play and pause music. The earbuds offer six hours of play or talk time between charges and the case will fully charge them eight times before needing to be recharged.