The price range for noise-cancelling earbuds can vary from $60 to $300. And while the cheaper models can be solid, you do sometimes get what you pay for.
Amazon seems like they’re striking a nice balance between quality and price with their second-generation Echo Buds. Available for pre-order, the updated earbuds start at $100 for now and go up incrementally in price based on the charging case (a wireless charging case will add $20, for example). That’s far less than the Google Pixel Buds or Apple AirPods, and more like what you’d find with a brand like Jabra or Anker.
The updated Echo Buds are 20% smaller than their predecessor and offers hands-free access to Alexa — if you read the Amazon press release, you’ll notice Alexa capabilities are front-and-center. As well, these new buds offer better Active Noise-Cancelling capabilities; Amazon claims the ‘buds cancel twice as much sound as their first-gen model (a Passthrough Mode allows the outside world in a bit more).
The charging times are OK. It’s five hours of listening time while you’re using the ANC properties, and up to 15 with the charging case.
The all-new Echo Buds are available in Black or Glacier White starting at $119.99, but are available for a limited time starting at $99.99 (again, that’s for the version with a wired charging case; add $20 for a wireless option). Customers who qualify will also receive six months of Amazon Music Unlimited and Audible Plus for free. Shipments begin May 13.
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