Under $50 Scores: These $35 earbuds offer AirPods Pro-quality sound at a bargain

Content is created by CNN Underscored’s team of editors who work independently from the CNN newsroom. When you buy through links on our site, CNN and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Learn more

Brand recognition goes a long way, especially when shopping for bargain wireless earbuds. Companies like Anker, EarFun and Skullcandy have released quality sub-$50 models, earning them good will with budget-conscious consumers and critics. Then there are the diamonds in the rough — unknown audio manufacturers that have launched surprisingly great buds at unbeatable prices. Such is the case with Baseus and their Bowie MA10.

These aren’t the most stylish buds out there, and their bulky appearance could be a turnoff for those preferring a smaller, lighter design. However, the Bowie MA10’s beauty lies within, powered by a robust spec sheet that produces crisp, spacious sound and monstrous battery life. And that’s just a small tasting.

Baseus Bowie MA10

The Bowie MA10 are generously affordable buds with class-leading battery life and elite sound for a fraction of the cost of AirPods Pro 2.

How I found the Baseus Bowie MA10

These buds came my way through a PR promotion that an editor forwarded to my inbox. The features alone were captivating enough to request a sample. Not only do the Bowie MA10 exceed expectations, but they prove to be better than some of our favorite Under $25 Scores like the Anker Soundcore P20i and Skullcandy Dime 2. Furthermore, they’re arguably the best budget earbuds under $50.

Why they’re a score

The amount of functionality Baseus grants users is impressive, from noise reduction to sound personalization to versatile connectivity. That’s not even including some of the other perks on hand.

Baseus’ companion app for iOS and Android is where most of the action takes place. You’ll gain access to the ANC/Ambient Sound setting, battery level indicators for both the buds and the charging case, control customization, EQ with multiple presets, Low Latency mode and even a Locate function for finding misplaced buds. A few of these features aren’t even available on some $100 wireless earbuds.

An aerospace-grade titanium-plated double compound diaphragm, Bluetooth 5.3 with dual-channel low latency and a customizable EQ make up the Bowie MA10’s sound design. The default Classic EQ complements modern music genres (e.g., EDM, hard rock, hip hop). Lows are snappy and tight right out of the box. Instruments and vocals sound more prominent on the Bowie MA10 than on Apple’s flagship buds. You can also enjoy increased bass response when switching to the Mega Bass EQ or well-balanced frequencies with the Clear EQ. Overall, the sound signature is dynamic and vibrant.

Active noise cancellation is far from what you’ll experience on some of the best wireless earbuds like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra and Sony WF-1000XM5. Don’t expect Baseus’ version to match the AirPods Pro 2’s ANC either. What you get is serviceable for the price. Users can either pick from multiple modes engineered for different environments (Commuting, Indoor, Outdoor) or select between 10 levels of noise neutralization. The latter is most effective and reduces low and mid-frequency sounds when set at max level. Common distractions like cars passing down the block and neighborly chatter are silenced, but blaring noises like sirens and landscaping tools are annoyingly loud.

Ambient mode salvages ANC by providing adequate transparency. You can eavesdrop on people’s conversations in the elevator or maintain some awareness in outdoor settings.

Then comes the Bowie MA10’s unsung hallmark: battery life. A single charge generates up to 8 hours of playtime, plus a 10-minute quick charge can net you 2 hours of use. The real reward comes from the large and weighty charging case, which holds a ridiculous 140 hours. Do the math and that’s about 17 extra charges.

The Bowie MA10 are bulky compared to other similarly priced rivals. They’re also much sturdier and more uniquely crafted. Solid plastic makes up most of the design, and there’s a built-in rubberized wing to stabilize fit. IPX6 waterproofing keeps these buds from moisture damage from any sweat or splashing.

Certain areas don’t perform up to par. The light-up touch panels demonstrate unreliable input accuracy and multipoint technology causes audio to frequently stutter when paired to two devices at the same time.

Still, one can only appreciate the valiant effort Baseus put into giving you the most for your dollar, even if some functions don’t live up to industry standards. They’re well worth a consideration — if not for their excellent sound or extended functionality, then for their near-endless battery life.

Note: The prices above reflect the retailers' listed price at the time of publication.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com