Earphones have become a daily accessory for many – whether to tune out noise on the commute to work, or enhance immersion while binge watching shows at home. High quality earphones used to be quite expensive, but recent years have seen impressive audio performance even in budget price segments.
This blog shares a detailed overview of the best earphones under 500 available in India. Keep reading to discover top picks across major brands and various styles that deliver stunning sound without breaking the bank. We dive into aspects like audio quality, design, extra features and real customer reviews to showcase options maximizing value at this affordable price point.
Whether a discerning audiophile on a budget, or simply a casual listener wanting trustworthy quality, the curated recommendations here aim to help make that buying decision easier across use cases. Time to enhance your daily listening sessions with top notch earphones handpicked after thorough research combining both expert and user perspectives. Let’s get started!
The boAt BassHeads 100 are a great option for those looking for affordable earphones with good sound quality and bass. These wired earphones feature 10mm drivers for powerful audio and deep bass. The earbuds have an inline mic and control for answering calls and controlling music playback.
For under 500 rupees, the BassHeads 100 punch above their weight in audio performance. The bass is powerful yet clean, making these great for bass lovers. The metallic earbuds have a premium look and feel. Noise isolation is also decent for blocking out ambient sounds. Overall, these make for a really good pair of budget earphones.
The boAt bassheads 105 are a popular entry-level earphone model from boAt known for its extra bass and style. These bright green earbuds have a 10mm driver in each earpiece for stereo audio. It comes with an in-line mic for calls and media controls.
For its low price tag, the bassheads 105 packs a real punch in bass performance. The sound spectrum has been tuned for extra bass which really shows, making these great for bass lovers. The build quality is average but acceptable for budget earphones. Noise isolation is also decent thanks to the in-canal fit. At this price point they make an excellent choice for EDM and hip hop listeners.
The Boult Audio BassBuds X1 features a 10mm driver tuned for extra bass performance. The earphones have an in-line microphone and control pod to easily manage music and calls on the go. It comes with a 1.2m long cable.
Boult Audio focuses on value for money audio products and the BassBuds X1 delivers on that promise. For an affordable price you get earphones that can handle high volumes without distortion. The bass is powerful but does not overshadow the mids and highs. Noise isolation is also decent thanks to the in-canal design. The wire cable feels sturdy but can tangle. Overall, impressive audio for the price.
The Boult Audio X1 Pro delivers a number of upgrades over the original X1 – including a Type-C charging port, IPX5 water resistance and improved noise isolation. The feature 10mm neodymium drivers in each earbud for powerful stereo sound. It also supports voice assistants with its in-line microphone.
Boult Audio has upgraded its original X1 earphones to add some nice premium features. The Type-C port makes charging convenient, water resistance is great for active use, and noise isolation creates an immersive listening experience. Audio quality remains top-notch with the 10mm drivers delivering plenty of bass along with crisp mids and highs. At under 500 rupees, the X1 Pro earns its name as a ‘pro’ budget option.
Philips is a reputed brand for audio products. The Philips TAE1107BK earbuds feature 10mm neodymium drivers for quality stereo sound powered by bass. It has an in-line microphone and controller for call and music management. The ear tips come in three sizes for a customizable fit.
As a legacy audio brand, Philips brings quality and comfort to these in-ear earphones. The 10mm drivers produce clear sound with punchy bass. Noise isolation works decently well to cut out ambient noise when music is playing. The cable appears sturdy though may tangle a bit over time. At this price point they make for a nice choice combining both audio performance and brand trust.
The boAt Bassheads 228 packs extra bass into its 10mm drivers along with a stylish design. It features an angled gold-plated 3.5mm headphone jack for durability and tangle resistant flat cable. The inline remote mic allows for call and music management on the go.
BoAt is one of the most popular headphone and earphone brands in India. With the Bassheads 228 they deliver powerful bass along with vibrant style. The bass overpowers the mids and highs just a bit, but the sound is still quite clear for listening to today’s bass-heavy genres. Noise isolation is also decent thanks to the snug in-ear fit. For bass lovers wanting earphones that match their style under 500 rupees, the Bassheads 228 make an excellent stylish choice.
JBL is a leading audio brand that brings its expertise into the C50HI earbuds. It features a one button remote for controlling music and calls. The contoured design allows for a comfortable in-ear fit for extended wear. Volume levels are also indicated through integrated LED lights.
JBL is known for its quality sound engineering across headphones and speakers. The C50HI brings a comfortable lightweight earbud design with the renowned JBL audio signature – warm tones with ample bass, clear mids and crisp highs. For an immersive listening experience under 500 rupees from a top brand, these make a compelling choice combining great fit and sound.
Xioami is now a leader in the affordable tech space. Its earphones pack ultra deep bass into a metal sound chamber design. It features an in-line microphone and remote for call and music control. The box includes three pairs of ear tips for customized fit.
The Xiaomi earphones offer tremendous value just like its popular smartphones. You get a premium metal design with audio tuned for bass lovers featuring solid mids and highs as well. Noise isolation works decently thanks to the in-ear fit and variety of ear tips to choose from. For those wanting deep bass along with crisp sound on a budget, these quickly became a fan favorite.
Portronics specializes in affordable personal audio products. Its Conch Gama earphones promise premium sound in a budget package. It packs 10mm speakers for high bass performance and features a microphone for voice calls. The 1.2 meter cable is advertised as tangle-free.
The Conch Gama earphones deliver on their promise of high quality sound on a budget. While marketed for bass lovers, the sound spectrum is quite balanced between lows, mids and highs. Noise isolation works sufficiently well for noisy commutes or concentration during study/work. The mic also makes clear voice calls thanks to noise cancellation tech. Overall, impressive performance across sound and features at this affordable sticker price.
The Zebronics Zeb-Bro earphones offer bass-driven sound on a budget. It comes equipped with 10mm neodymium drivers in each earbud. The 1.2m cable length ensures convenience while the in-line microphone enables voice calls and virtual assistant support.
As a budget homegrown brand, Zebronics delivers decent audio quality for the price with the Zeb-Bro. The sound is geared more towards bass lovers, though mids and highs come through as well. Noise isolation could be better but is acceptable for noisy commutes. The microphone works sufficiently well for voice calls. For an affordable pair of earphones for mostly music listening, these get the job done.
The pTron Pride Lite HBE promises an immersive audio experience on a budget. It features 10mm neodymium drivers in each earbud for stereo sound powered by bass. The in-line microphone enables clear calls while the 1.2m tangle-free cable allows convenience. These lightweight earphones come with extra earbuds as well.
For its affordable price tag, the Pride Lite HBE earphones pack a sonic punch. The audio quality shines with clear mids and highs to balance the powerful bass. Noise isolation works sufficiently well for blocking out ambient sounds. Build quality also feels decent and lightweight for extended music sessions. Overall, aptly named, these earphones deliver pride for discerning listeners on a budget.
The Portronics Conch Type C earphones offer modern connectivity. Key upgrades over the original Conch include Type-C charging, tangle-free cable and premium metal alloy body. It retains powerful 10mm drivers for deep, distortion-free stereo sound.
Portronics delivers excellent value for money with the Conch Type C earphones. You get the convenience of Type-C charging port along with premium design and materials like metal alloy housing and tangle-free cable – things not usually found at this price. And most crucially, the sound quality remains top notch. For both music and calls on the go, these make for a future-ready affordable choice.
Product | Features |
---|---|
boAt BassHeads 100 | 10mm drivers, metallic finish, inline control |
boAt bassheads 105 | Extra bass, HD sound, tangle-free cable |
Boult Audio BassBuds X1 | 10mm neodymium drivers, HD sound |
Boult Audio X1 Pro | 10mm drivers, Type C port, IPX5 rating |
Philips TAE1107BK | 10mm neodymium drivers, lightweight |
boAt Bassheads 228 | Tuned for extra bass, tangle-free cable |
JBL C50HI | JBL signature sound, integrated microphone |
Xiaomi Earphones | Aluminium alloy sound chamber, ultra deep bass |
Portronics Conch Gama | 10mm high fidelity drivers, inline mic |
Zebronics Zeb-Bro | 10mm drivers, bass focused sound |
pTron Pride Lite HBE | 10mm powerful drivers, noise isolation |
Portronics Conch Tune C | Type C port, 10mm drivers, metal alloy body |
When choosing earphones in this budget segment, focus on aspects like:
Sound Quality
As earphones are mainly meant for music listening, sound quality becomes paramount. Check the audio spectrum – whether the lows, mids and highs are balanced or if the sound tilts more towards extra bass or bright treble. This depends on your listening preferences across genres. Also see if volumes go loud enough without distortion.
Noise Isolation
For use in noisy environments like travel commutes, noise isolation can make a big difference in listening experience. See if the ear tips go into the ear canal to block ambient sounds. Certain designs like closed back earbuds also help cut out noise passively.
Build and Comfort
You’d want earphones that will last physically over months of usage. Check the quality of wires and ear tips which face maximum wear and tear. A comfortable and ergonomic fit also enables long music listening sessions without fatigue or irritation. Having multiple sized ear tips helps get the right fit.
Extra Features
Added functionality like an in-line microphone for calls, remote to control music playback and volume are a bonus in budget earphones. Other aspects like tangle-free cables, water/sweat resistance also increase utility for active use cases outdoors and during workouts.
Brand Value
Established audio brands often deliver better quality control even in budget models. Weigh options like JBL, Philips, boAt who have expertise in sound engineering against lesser known brands with impressive specs on paper.
There are a few popular earphone designs:
In-Ear Earbuds
These have silicone/rubber tips that go inside the ear canal providing noise isolation along with secure fit. Great for travel and noise protection but some may find them invasive.
Earbuds
Earbuds rest just outside the ear canal without entering it. They allow you to hear ambient sounds and people around you. Comfortable for long term wear but do not isolate noise.
Over/On-Ear
Larger, cushioned earcups cover your ears fully creating a surround sound effect. Excellent noise isolation but less portable than in-ear options. Wired models usually exceed a 500 budget.
True Wireless
Truly wireless earbuds connect independently over Bluetooth removing messy wires altogether. Convenient to use but currently exceed a 500 rupee budget.
Follow these tips to make your earphones last longer:
Avoid Moisture Damage
Don’t let your earphones get wet in the rain. Even sweat can cause corrosion over time. Opt for water resistant options if using during workouts.
Use Storage Case
Make use of included carrying cases or small bags to keep earphones safe while not in use. Prevent wire tangles by wrapping cable around case while storing.
Replace Eartips
The rubber or silicon ear tips face maximum damage over time. Check for cracks or tears regularly. Replace eartips immediately as they prevent hygienic use after wear and tear.
Clean Periodically
Use anti-bacterial wipes to gently clean earbud dust and ear wax build up over time. Similarly wipe down wires to remove sweat residue or grease periodically.
The Xiaomi Wired Earphones (with mic) stand out as the best overall choice considering audio quality, durable metal design and tremendous popularity with over 85,000 ratings. JBL C50HI makes for the best pick from a premium audio brand.
For powerful bass under 500, the BoAt Bassheads 228 steals the show with its 10mm drivers tuned especially for ‘super extra bass’. The Xiaomi offering also produces plenty of thump and extension thanks to its dual dynamic drivers.
All the models mentioned in this list except the Philips TAE1107BK come equipped with an in-line microphone for calls and voice assistant support. The JBL, Xiaomi and Boult Audio options even promise noise cancellation support during calls via their microphones.
Established names like boAt, JBL, Xiaomi, Philips and Boult Audio make excellent earphones even with entry-level models priced under 500. These brands invest in better materials, audio engineering and quality control even for budget models. Lesser known brands often cut corners that reflect in aspects like long term durability.
Prioritize sound quality metrics like bass depth, stereo separation, noise isolation etc. while comparing models under 500. Other deciding factors can be brand value, microphone for calls, number of eartip sizes, built quality of wires and housing, water/sweat resistance if needed and extra perks like voice assistant support. Comfort and secure ergonomic fit should also play a role while choosing for long listening sessions.
And there you have it – the top contenders for best earphones under 500 spanning reputed names like boAt, Xiaomi, JBL and more along with lessons in choosing correctly as per your preferences. We focused on stellar overall sound quality powered by innovations like metal casing and extra bass drivers normally reserved for more premium models. Simply put, auditory magic need not demand a princely sum.
The built, comfort and connectivity also punches way above the modest price point to potentially serve for years as loyal musical companions both indoors and on the move. No more straining to hear vocals or fiddling with annoying tangled wires. Treat your eardrums to crystal clarity surrounded by blissful isolation from a noisy world. Let mesmerizing symphonies, frenetic rap or that catchy new pop single embrace you anytime, anywhere so you can fully inhabit the power of sound wherever life takes you!
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