These $80 earbuds embarrass headphones twice the price

Cheap earbuds usually betray themselves within a song. These held up through an entire week of commutes, calls and workouts.

The noise cancelling won't silence a jet engine, but it flattens the office hum and the train rumble — which is what most people actually need.

Who they're for

• Commuters — enough ANC to reclaim a noisy train.
• Callers — the mics are clear, even outdoors.
• Budget buyers — flagship features without the flagship price.