Best wired USB-C earbuds in 2024

There’s no denying the convenience that a pair of wireless earbuds brings to the table. Unfortunately, wire-free in-ear and over-ear products also come with a small list of concerns. Users have to worry about battery life (for the wireless buds and the charging case), and wireless audio is typically given a short Bluetooth leash. After about 30 feet or so, the connection between the host device and earbuds will falter. And while hi-res wireless earbuds are now available, they tend to sit at the premium end of the market.

That’s why several great pairs of USB-C earbuds are still available in the world of consumer tech. Available from top brands like Samsung, Logitech, and more, USB-C earbuds are designed for true plug-and-play operation. This collection includes the best USB-C earbuds on the market — but before you decide, make sure that the host device you’re connecting to actually has a USB-C port.

Best overall

Samsung AKG-Tuned Wired USB-C Earphones

The 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.
Premium pick

Logitech Zone Wired Earbuds

Designed for a premium playback and chat experience, the Logitech Zone Wired Earbuds use advanced noise-cancelling mics to isolate and enhance your every spoken syllable. And thanks to Logitech’s phenomenal PET+PU driver engineering, music and podcasts will sound more immersive and detail-rich. We’re also glad to see that Logitech thought to include a couple of USB-C adapters (3.5mm and USB-A). Plus, the in-line controller provides all the control options you’ll need to fine-tune your Zone Wired Earbuds’ capabilities.
Best value

iMangoo USB-C Earbuds

Offering 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.
Google Pixel USB-C Earbuds

$20 $30 Save $10

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.
Belkin SoundForm Wired In-Ear USB-C Earbuds

Available 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.
Apple USB-C EarPods

Apple 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.
JLab JBuds Pro

$20 $30 Save $10

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.
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.
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.
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.
Avantree C171 USB-C Earbuds

$17 $19 Save $2

Designed 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.
JBL Tune 310C

$20 $25 Save $5

JBL is certainly no stranger to the world of advanced earbuds, and most folks will love the power and performance that the JBL Tune 310C deliver. These exceptional in-ears are available in black and white, and feature a flattened USB lead from the in-line controller to the buds. This prevents tangling, which bodes well for those of us who love tossing our earbuds in a handbag or backpack. True to JBL’s typical audio engineering, the Tune 310C manage to pull off bass response you’d normally have to spend way more for.

USB-C earbuds are an excellent alternative

While it may seem strange to recommend non-wireless tech, earbuds and headphones will often sound better when using a wired connection to a compatible host device. Not to mention that experiencing full hi-res playback isn’t possible without a pair of wired earbuds or headphones. Fortunately, there are plenty of USB-C earbuds to choose from, and most users will love the Samsung AKG-Tuned Wired USB-C Earbuds.

Combining AKG audio calibration with Samsung’s penchant for pulse-pounding sound, the Samsung AKG-Tuned Wired USB-C Earbuds leverage their 10mm dynamic drivers to deliver engulfing and detail-rich audio. And the pair is less than $20, so they are also some of the most inexpensive buds from a noteworthy brand on the market. Of course, you could always spend a few more dollars and go premium.

For just shy of $80, the Logitech Zone Wired Earbuds use powerful noise-cancelling mics to hone in on your voice during phone and video calls. The sound quality is also great, and we’re glad that Logitech opted to use neodymium for enhanced volume presence. The in-line controls are also intuitive and easy to access, thanks in part to the tangle-free cable.

If you’re all about budget-friendly shopping, the iMangoo USB-C Earbuds are ideal. Not only are these buds inexpensive, but they also contain a solid internal DAC that ensures playback is always the best it can be.