We’re only halfway through 2024 and there has been one consumer tech product category that has seen non-stop action. We’re not just talking about the slew of smartphone launches in 2024, but the continued rise of TWS Bluetooth earbuds that shows no signs of slowing down. A report from Future Market Insights pegs the global market sales figures for 2023 at USD 56.6 billion. This report also suggests that the TWS earbuds category is poised to grow at an impressive CAGR of 24.9% and hit USD 522 billion by 2033.
India will be one of the key drivers of this global growth. Most of the action in India is in the sub-Rs 5K market where earbuds continue to benefit from better battery life and features that have trickled down from the premium segment. We’re also seeing an emphasis on design in the budget segment as consumers continue to be spoilt for choice. Some of the latest launches from CMF by Nothing and OnePlus figure in our listing of the best Bluetooth earbuds you can buy under Rs 5,000:
CMF by Nothing Buds Pro 2
One of the most stylish TWS Bluetooth Earbuds at this price point — we dig the smart dial on the case that’s more than just a design element. CMF by Nothing calls it the industry’s first customisable Smart Dial. You can use this to tweak the volume and also use touch controls as menu shortcuts by pre-sets in the Nothing X App. It also scores with its 360-degree cinematic sound that benefits from the audio set up. These buds are packed dual drivers (11mm bass driver + 6mm tweeter) and feature 6 HD mics for superior call quality. Battery life – 43 hours, is another win.
Price: Rs 4,298
JBL Wave Flex
JBL’s latest sub-Rs 5,000 earbuds won a Red Dot award for its innovative design. The headline feature is JBL’s trademark Deep Bass Sound powered by 12mm drivers that deliver a great soundstage for its asking price. The ergonomic, stick-open design of the JBL Wave Flex ensures a comfortable fit. It also allows you to immerse yourself in your playlist without blocking your ear canal. JBL claims that these buds deliver a battery life of 32 hours.
Price: Rs 3,499
OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro
OnePlus is betting big on the ANC (Active noise cancellation) capabilities of its newest pair of TWS Bluetooth earbuds. These buds come with up to 49dB of Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation. The buds also come with a crystal clear 3-Mic Call noise cancellation. Sound quality gets a boost with the 12.4mm Titanised Diaphragm and OnePlus’s Rich Bass with Basswave 2.0. Another feature we like is fast charging — a 10-minute charge gives you 11 hours of playtime. OnePlus promises up to 44 hours of battery life for the case and buds.
Price: Rs 3,299
Moto Buds
It’s not just the funky form factor, these buds are also geared for sweaty workouts and a heavy drizzle thanks to their water-repellent design. They are powered by 12.4mm dynamic drivers, so that you can immerse yourself in the multi-dimensional audio of Dolby Atmos. The triple-mic system on each of the buds and the anti-wind noise algorithm augments call quality while the 42-hour battery life is another win.
Price: Rs 2,999
Redmi Buds 5C
Redmi’s all-new TWS earbuds are also riding on its ANC solution; these buds offer 40dB of hybrid active noise cancellation and are kitted with 12.4mm titanium drivers. The other big talking point is the Environmental noise cancellation on the Quad-mic. These buds feature a unique dual-channel AI algorithm that filters wind noise during outdoor activities. You get 36 hours of battery life, while a 10-minute charge provides up to two hours of playtime.
Price: Rs 1,999
Boult Mustang Torq
Boult’s co-branded earbuds with Mustang should appeal to auto enthusiasts and design fans alike. These buds seek inspiration from generations of Mustang sports cars to create a unique form factor. For instance, the case LEDs aim to mimic wedge-deck tailgate. We like the choice of bold blue for these buds that don’t just score on style. Boult has kitted the Mustang Torq buds with 13mm drivers backed with BoomX technology; these buds come with Extra Bass and feature Boult’s Zen Quad Mic ENC for improved call quality.
Price: Rs 1,799
