Best USB C Earbuds: Top Picks for 2024

1. Apple Earpods Headphones with USB

We’ve spent considerable time with Apple’s standard EarPods, and while they’ve been a ubiquitous accessory for years, their USB-C iteration brings them into the modern charging era. The familiar white plastic design remains, offering a lightweight feel for extended listening sessions. The sound quality is generally balanced, making them suitable for casual music listening and voice calls.

However, the fit can be a point of contention; they tend to sit loosely in many ears, which can lead to them falling out during more active moments. The cable, while durable enough for daily use, can still tangle in pockets or bags, a minor annoyance we encounter with most wired options. The inline remote offers basic controls, which are functional but lack tactile feedback, sometimes leading to accidental presses.

This product is ideal for users who prioritize simplicity and already have a USB-C equipped device, especially if they’re looking for a no-frills audio solution for calls and podcasts. They are not for audiophiles seeking deep bass or nuanced soundstages, nor for anyone who needs a secure fit for workouts.

2. Apple Airpods 4 Wireless Earbuds

The latest iteration of Apple’s mainstream wireless earbuds, the AirPods 4, aim to enhance the listening experience without the Pro moniker’s premium price. The design is instantly recognizable, and the charging case is compact and pocket-friendly. We found the audio quality to be a noticeable step up from previous standard models, with improved clarity and a slightly more engaging sound profile, especially when Personalized Spatial Audio is engaged.

The integration with Apple devices is, as expected, effortless. Pairing is instantaneous, and switching between devices is remarkably smooth. However, the noise isolation is still quite passive, meaning ambient sounds will easily penetrate, which is a double-edged sword depending on your environment. The fit, while generally comfortable, still relies on a universal design that might not suit everyone’s ear shape perfectly, leading to occasional readjustments.

This is a great option for existing Apple users who want a convenient, good-sounding wireless earbud experience with the added benefit of Spatial Audio. However, those who require robust active noise cancellation or a truly customizable fit should look elsewhere.

3. Wired USB C Headphones for iPhone

For those navigating the evolving landscape of smartphone ports, these 2-pack USB-C wired headphones offer a practical solution, especially for newer iPhones. We tested these as a budget-friendly alternative for users who prefer wired connections or need a backup. The build quality is basic, as expected at this price point, with a predominantly plastic construction that feels neither premium nor flimsy. Sound reproduction is adequate for everyday listening, providing a clear enough signal for podcasts and calls, though bass response is understandably limited.

The primary appeal here is the direct USB-C connection, bypassing the need for dongles and offering a straightforward plug-and-play experience. However, the cable management can be a bit unruly, and the overall audio fidelity doesn’t compete with higher-end wired or wireless options. The inline controls are functional but very rudimentary, offering only basic play/pause and volume adjustments, which can feel a bit clunky in use. These are truly the best usb c earbuds for someone on a strict budget or who needs a spare pair.

These are a solid choice for iPhone users who have transitioned to USB-C and need an affordable, no-fuss wired audio solution. They are not designed for critical listening, demanding workouts where a secure fit is paramount, or for users who expect a premium build and sound experience.

4. Apple Airpods Pro 3 Wireless Earbuds

The AirPods Pro 3 represent Apple’s continued push into premium wireless audio, focusing on an immersive listening experience with advanced features. The design is sleek and familiar, with the charging case offering a satisfying heft and a compact profile. Sound quality is where these truly shine, delivering rich, detailed audio with punchy bass and clear highs, further enhanced by the effective Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). We found the ANC to be remarkably adept at silencing the drone of everyday environments.

The Transparency mode is also impressively natural, allowing you to hear your surroundings without feeling disconnected. However, the fit, while improved with silicone tips, still relies on a standardized nozzle size that might not create a perfect seal for every ear canal, potentially impacting ANC performance slightly. The touch controls on the stems are responsive but can sometimes be accidentally triggered when adjusting the earbuds, a minor annoyance we’ve noted.

These are an excellent choice for Apple users who demand top-tier noise cancellation, superior sound quality, and deep integration within the Apple ecosystem. However, individuals with very specific ear shapes that struggle with silicone tips or those who prioritize a physical button interface might want to consider alternatives.

5. Wired USB C Earbuds

These wired USB-C earphones aim to provide a straightforward audio solution for devices that have embraced the USB-C standard. Upon initial inspection, the build quality is utilitarian; the plastic feels a bit hollow, and the cable, while functional, lacks the robustness of more premium offerings. The sound profile is surprisingly passable for general listening, offering a clear mid-range that’s suitable for spoken word content and casual music enjoyment, though bass enthusiasts will likely be disappointed.

The direct USB-C connection is the main selling point, eliminating the need for adapters and offering a simple plug-and-play experience. However, we did notice a slight hiss when no audio was playing, a common characteristic of some budget wired USB-C headphones. The inline remote is basic, featuring only volume controls and a play/pause button, which can feel a little mushy under the thumb. They are not for those seeking an audiophile experience.

These are best suited for users who need a basic, affordable wired headset for their USB-C devices, particularly for secondary use or as a backup. They are not recommended for anyone who prioritizes superior sound quality, active noise isolation, or a durable, premium build.

6. USB C Headphones for Samsung

We tested these USB-C headphones with a Samsung S26, and the plug-and-play experience was as straightforward as advertised. The audio quality for music was surprisingly balanced, with clear highs and a decent, though not overpowering, bass response. They felt comfortable enough for extended listening sessions, with the ear tips creating a good seal without applying too much pressure.

The built-in microphone picked up my voice clearly during calls, even in moderately noisy environments, which is a definite plus for everyday communication. The cable itself felt robust, and the in-line controls were responsive to touch. However, I did notice that the cable has a tendency to tangle more easily than some of the premium options we’ve encountered.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: For someone who primarily uses their Samsung phone for music during their commute and needs a reliable microphone for work calls, these are a solid choice. I used them during a bustling train ride, and the noise isolation was good enough to enjoy my podcast without cranking the volume to unsafe levels. The simple design means they’re easy to stash in a pocket or bag.

While these headphones offer good value for the price, audiophiles seeking extremely deep bass or intricate soundstage details might find them a bit lacking. They are also not ideal for those who require active noise cancellation for truly quiet listening environments.

7. Wired USB C Headphones for iPhone

Testing these USB-C wired headphones on an iPhone 17 revealed a good, albeit not perfect, audio experience. The sound reproduction was generally crisp, and I appreciated the clarity in vocal-heavy tracks. The build quality felt sturdy, with a nice weight to the earcups that suggested durability. The USB-C connector plugged in securely, providing a stable connection throughout our testing period.

The in-line controls are functional, allowing for play/pause and track skipping, though the button placement felt slightly awkward under my thumb initially. The microphone quality was adequate for casual conversations, but it struggled a bit in noisier settings, with some background interference noted. The silicone ear tips provided a comfortable seal, but I found the smallest size still a touch too large for a perfect fit.

Who is this specifically for?: These are best suited for iPhone users who have recently upgraded and want to ditch the dongle life without breaking the bank. If you primarily listen to podcasts or vocal-focused music and make occasional calls, these will serve you well. They are a practical option for students or anyone looking for a no-fuss audio solution.

While these offer a decent audio solution for iPhones, those who prioritize deep, resonant bass or require superior microphone clarity for frequent professional calls should look elsewhere. They are not the best usb c earbuds for critical listening or noisy environments.

8. USB C Headphones for Samsung

We evaluated these USB-C headphones with a range of Samsung devices, from the S26 down to the S23 FE, and found them to be a consistent performer. The audio output was pleasingly warm, with a noticeable emphasis on the mid-range frequencies that made vocals and instruments stand out. The earbuds themselves felt lightweight and comfortable, making them suitable for long listening periods without fatigue.

The microphone quality was a highlight, capturing voices with impressive clarity and minimal distortion, even when I moved around. The braided cable felt premium and resisted tangling better than many competitors, which is a welcome feature for daily use. However, the in-line volume controls felt a little less responsive than I would have liked, sometimes requiring a firmer press.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: These are perfect for busy professionals who rely heavily on their Samsung phone for conference calls and also enjoy listening to music during their commute. I used them during a busy office day, and the microphone handled background chatter exceptionally well, ensuring my voice came through clearly to colleagues. The comfortable fit meant I could wear them for hours without any discomfort.

While these headphones offer a great combination of comfort and call quality, they might not satisfy bass enthusiasts who crave a thunderous low-end. Those who prefer a more minimalist in-line control setup might also find the slightly firm button presses an annoyance.

9. Skullcandy Set USB

Our testing of the Skullcandy Set USB headphones revealed a sound profile geared towards a younger demographic, with a pronounced bass that can sometimes overpower other frequencies. The design is bold and distinctive, which will appeal to those who value aesthetics. The USB-C connection was solid, and the headphones were recognized instantly by our test devices.

Comfort-wise, the earbuds are reasonably snug, but the sound isolation isn’t the best, meaning ambient noise can easily creep in. The microphone performance was passable for quick calls, but it lacked the clarity needed for extended or important conversations. I did find the cable to be a bit on the shorter side, which limited my movement when plugged into a desktop or a phone in a pocket.

Who is this specifically for?: These are ideal for teenagers or young adults who primarily listen to bass-heavy music genres like hip-hop or EDM and want headphones that make a visual statement. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that delivers a punchy low-end for casual listening, these might fit the bill. They are not for those who seek nuanced audio reproduction or excellent noise isolation.

While the bass is certainly present, it comes at the cost of overall audio fidelity, making them unsuitable for classical music or podcasts where clarity is paramount. The limited noise isolation also means they’re not a good choice for noisy commutes.

10. Amazon Basics Wired Earbuds with Microphone

We put these Amazon Basics wired earbuds through their paces, and as expected from the brand, they deliver a no-frills, functional experience. The sound quality is adequate for everyday listening, offering a fairly neutral profile without any particular emphasis on bass or treble. The build feels basic but sturdy enough for regular use, and the USB-C connection was reliable.

The microphone performed acceptably during our tests, picking up speech clearly enough for casual conversations without significant distortion. The in-line controls are simple, offering play/pause and track skip functionality, though they feel a bit plasticky to the touch. I noticed that the ear tips, while providing a decent seal, felt a little generic and could become uncomfortable after several hours of continuous wear.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: These are perfect for someone who needs a spare pair of wired earbuds for occasional use or for a device that doesn’t support Bluetooth. I used them primarily for listening to audiobooks while doing chores around the house, and they performed their job without any fuss. They are a practical choice for anyone prioritizing basic functionality over premium features.

While these earbuds are functional, they lack the audio refinement and comfort that more premium options provide. They are not suitable for audiophiles or individuals who spend many hours listening to music and require superior comfort and sound detail.