Sony WF-C710N

The Sony WF-C710N claims the budget rank at $120 through Sony's proven ANC engineering and ergonomic design refinement. This model delivers noise canceling performance that punches above its price class, using integrated processor optimization to reduce low-frequency ambient noise effectively. The compact, lightweight design weighs just 4.6 grams per earbud, among the smallest in this category, making these ideal for extended wear during long flights or workdays. Battery life reaches 10 hours per charge with ANC active, extending to 20 hours total with the case, a conservative estimate that buyers report often exceeds in real-world use. The sound signature follows Sony's consumer tuning with balanced midrange and controlled bass, avoiding the excessive low-end emphasis found in competing budget models. The Integrated Processor V1 enables precise ambient sound control through the Sony Headphones Connect app, allowing users to fine-tune ANC intensity or blend in specific environmental sounds. IPX4 water resistance covers typical sweat and splash scenarios, though this falls short of the IPX5 rating in the Earfun and Anker models. Multipoint connectivity pairs with two devices simultaneously, and Fast Pair integration simplifies setup with Android phones. Call quality performs adequately for voice calls but lacks the advanced noise suppression of higher-ranked models. The charging case is compact and charges via USB-C, though wireless charging is absent at this price tier. theRANKS scoring reflects strong trust and demand signals, with Sony's brand reputation bolstering buyer confidence. The budget label applies because this model sacrifices some battery case capacity and water resistance compared to the mid-range Liberty 4 Pro, while delivering noise canceling that approaches the effectiveness of the top-ranked Beats. Buyers who prioritize lightweight comfort and proven Sony audio engineering over maximum feature density will find this the most compelling option under $130.