We very much live in a wire-free age of consumer tech. The more products a brand can attach “wireless” to, the better the chance they’ll be purchased, right? Well, when it comes to wireless earbuds, sometimes the wire-free factor can actually get in the way of your listening experience. After all, neither Bluetooth nor Wi-Fi can give you the same level of audio performance as a wired connection. That’s why investing in a pair (or two) of USB-C earbuds is a good idea.
Now that Apple has finally jumped on the USB-C train with the iPhone 15, using wired buds (and wired headphones) is easier than ever. But you don’t just want to buy any pair of USB-C in-ears, because there are some pretty lackluster options out there. This collection of the best USB-C earbuds should help.
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Samsung AKG-Tuned Wired USB-C Earphones
Best overall$16 $30 Save $14The 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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Logitech G333 Gaming Earphones
Premium pickIf 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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iMangoo USB-C Earbuds
Best valueOffering 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.
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Google Pixel USB-C Earbuds
$26 $30 Save $4Best 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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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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Skullcandy Set USB-C 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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Apple USB-C EarPods
$18 $20 Save $2Apple 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.
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Belkin SoundForm Wired In-Ear USB-C Earbuds
$25 $30 Save $5Available 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.
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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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Adprotech USB-C Earbuds
$16 $20 Save $4Need 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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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.
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Avantree C171 USB-C Earbuds
$16 $19 Save $3Designed 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.
USB-C earbuds are an excellent alternative
USB-C earbuds might not be at the top of most earbud shopping lists, but they should. While there’s no denying the convenience of wire-free connectivity to your phone, tablet, or PC, any time you introduce a wireless protocol to the equation, you’re adding compression to your audio’s signal path. The less compression, the better, and nothing is as compression-free as a direct USB-C connection.
In terms of the best, the Samsung AKG-Tuned Wired USB-C Earphones get the top prize. AKG delivers two fine-tuned 10mm drivers that sound incredible. These buds are terrific monitors for experiencing lossless audio through a compatible Samsung device. But if you want to bump things up a few rungs, we recommend selecting the Logitech G333 Gaming Earphones instead.
Equipped with a responsive in-line mic for gameplay chatter and phone calls, the G333 also bring a full-bodied soundstage to the table. Highs and mids are crisp and clear, and the bass is warm and consistent. If you’re trying to save a few bucks though, you should take a look at the iMangoo USB-C Earbuds.
For less than $20, the iMangoo USB-C Earbuds feature plated connectors for distortion-free sound, and the rear-facing magnets keep the buds free of any tangles.
