Bordsek Wired Earphone USB C1

Cheap, comfortable, and surprisingly good-sounding USB-C earbuds. The mic is meh and the build feels cheap, but for $3 to $14, you're getting way more than you paid for.

The sound quality is the real surprise here. That 14.2mm driver paired with the Hi-Res DAC chip puts it in the 79th percentile for sound, which is well above average for this price bracket. Bass is balanced, mids are clear, and highs don't get shrill. The ANC is also better than expected at the 73rd percentile, though a few owners say it can be overly sensitive. The mic, on the other hand, is a weak spot at the 38th percentile, so don't plan on recording podcasts with these.

Against the JLab JBuds Pro Signature, the Bordsek holds its own on sound but loses on build quality and mic performance. The Sony MDRE9LP/BLU is a more established name, but you'll pay more for similar audio. The BLXSounds A9PRO-BLACK is another budget contender, but the Bordsek's compatibility list is more comprehensive, especially for newer iPhone and Samsung models. If you want the best sound per dollar, the Bordsek is the pick. If you want something that feels less disposable, look at JLab.

At $3 to $14, these are a no-brainer if you need a backup pair or just want something that works. The sound quality alone justifies the price. But if you're expecting premium build or a great mic, you'll be disappointed. For the money, it's hard to complain.

The Bordsek Wired Earphone USB C1 is a budget USB-C wired earbud that punches above its weight on sound, but don't expect much else. The one thing to know: for around $3 to $14 depending on where you buy, you get a 14.2mm dynamic driver with a built-in DAC that delivers surprisingly clear audio. It's not going to wow audiophiles, but it's a solid replacement for the earbuds your phone didn't come with.

If you're looking for premium build quality or a great microphone, this isn't it. Go get the JLab JBuds Pro Signature or spend a bit more on something from Sony. These are backup earbuds, not your daily driver if you care about call quality or how they feel in your hand.

Buy these if you need cheap, reliable wired earbuds with good sound and broad compatibility. They're not perfect, but at this price, they don't need to be. The Bordsek USB C1 is a solid budget pick that gets the job done without any drama.