RTINGS

The best wired earbuds under $50 that we've tested are the KZ ZSN. Unlike the TIN Audio T2, which are similarly designed in-ear monitors (IEMs), you can purchase the KZ with or without a mic, making them a bit more versatile for day-to-day life. They also have a sleek look that comes in a few different colors to match your style.

These IEMs have a great design that feels durable and well-built. There are metal-finish backplates on the buds, and the braided audio cable is detachable, so it's easily replaceable should it get damaged. Their excited, v-shaped sound profile is well-suited for genres like pop and rock as they deliver extra boom and warmth while vocals and lead instruments sparkle. Depending on your tastes, you may find their sound muddy and harsh.

If you have small ears, their somewhat bulky design can be uncomfortable. They also struggle to block out background noise, so if you're wearing them during your commute, you'll hear the rumbles of bus engines. They do a better job cutting down ambient chatter at the office or in a cafe.

The KZ ZSN are the best cheap earphones with a wired design that we've tested. You may prefer a wired design if you're looking for a latency-free audio experience when you're streaming video or if you value high audio quality. You can also purchase them with or without an in-line mic, depending on your preferences.

These headphones have a great build quality that feels durable. Their braided audio cable is detachable, so if it gets damaged, you can easily replace it. They have an excited, v-shaped sound profile that delivers a touch of extra punch and warmth to audio while vocals and lead instruments are bright. If you like to listen to audio at high volumes, others around you shouldn't be able to hear it. 

Unfortunately, they have a sub-par noise isolation performance and they have a hard time blocking out the low rumble of bus and plane engines. Their fit is a bit bulky too, and you may find them uncomfortable if you have small ears. That said, if you're looking for cheap wired earbuds, they're worth checking out. 

The KZ ZSN are the best cheap earphones with a durable design that we've tested. These wired buds have great build quality thanks to their solid buds and braided audio cable. The cable is also detachable, making it easy to replace if it gets damaged. You can purchase these buds with or without an in-line mic and even pick up a Bluetooth adapter separately if you want to use them wirelessly, although this can add to your expenses. However, you may still prefer a wired design if you're looking for a latency-free audio experience when you're streaming video or if you value high audio quality.

They have an excited, v-shaped sound profile that delivers a touch of extra punch and warmth to audio while vocals and lead instruments are bright. If you like to listen to audio at high volumes, others around you won't hear it. Unfortunately, they have a sub-par noise isolation performance and have a hard time blocking out the low rumble of bus and plane engines. Their fit is a bit bulky too, and you may find them uncomfortable if you have small ears.

The KZ ZSN are the most durable earbuds under $50 that we've tested. These well-built earbuds have a wired design, with a detachable cable you can easily replace if it's damaged. The buds are made of plastic and metal and feel sturdy enough to survive a few accidental drops and bumps. They have a very warm sound profile that adds extra boom to audio, making them well-suited for genres like EDM and hip-hop. Voices and instruments are also preset and clear, meaning you can use them for content like podcasts.

Their passive noise isolation isn't nearly as good as the Anker Soundcore Life Dot 2 Truly Wireless', but they will reduce mid-range noise like background conversations. Unfortunately, unlike most of the picks here, they don't have a mic, so they aren't suitable if you want headphones to take calls on the go. The buds are on the bigger side and may be less comfortable for people with small ears. However, they come with a selection of ear tips to help you find the best fit.

IEM Comparison