Amazon Echo Buds 2 Review: Best Budget ANC Earbuds?

My Verdict Up Front: The Amazon Echo Buds 2 Are a Steal

After six weeks of putting the Amazon Echo Buds (2nd Gen) through their paces, I can confidently say these are the best budget wireless earbuds with active noise cancellation you can buy in 2025. At just a fraction of the cost of Apple AirPods Pro, these true wireless earbuds deliver surprisingly robust ANC performance, solid audio quality, and seamless Alexa integration that actually makes sense for everyday use.

I've tested everything from the Sony WF-1000XM4 to the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds, and while the Echo Buds 2 don't quite match those premium options in raw audio fidelity, they punch well above their weight class. For anyone who's deeply invested in the Amazon ecosystem or simply wants competent ANC earbuds without breaking the bank, these buds are an absolute no-brainer.

What Are the Echo Buds 2 and Who Should Buy Them?

The Amazon Echo Buds (2nd Generation) are Amazon's refined take on budget-friendly true wireless earbuds with active noise cancellation. Released as a significant upgrade over the original Echo Buds, these in-ear headphones pack genuine ANC technology (not just passive noise reduction), hands-free Alexa voice control, and a more compact design into a package that typically sells for under $120.

These aren't just another pair of cheap wireless earbuds flooding Amazon's marketplace. The Echo Buds 2 represent Amazon's serious entry into the premium TWS earbuds market, competing directly with products from Jabra, Anker Soundcore, and even Apple's AirPods lineup.

Target Audience: Who Should Buy the Echo Buds 2?

My Credentials: Why Trust This Review?

As a technology reviewer with extensive experience testing audio equipment, I've had the privilege of evaluating dozens of wireless earbuds across all price ranges. My testing methodology involves real-world scenarios—commuting on noisy trains, working out at the gym, taking conference calls in busy coffee shops, and critically listening to various music genres from hip-hop to classical. I'm not just regurgitating spec sheets; every observation in this review comes from my genuine, hands-on experience over six intensive weeks with the Echo Buds 2.

Product Overview & Technical Specifications

What's in the Box: Unboxing Experience

Amazon's packaging is refreshingly straightforward and environmentally conscious. The Echo Buds 2 arrive in a compact box made with post-consumer recycled plastic, aligning with Amazon's Climate Pledge commitments. Inside, you'll find:

• Echo Buds (2nd Gen) earbuds – Pre-installed with medium tips
• Compact charging case – Available in Glacier White or Black
• Three sizes of silicone ear tips – Small, Medium, Large for customized fit
• USB-C charging cable – Standard USB-A to USB-C, approximately 2 feet long
• Quick start guide – Minimal documentation (most info is in the Alexa app)

Notably absent: No additional wing tips or ear stabilizers, which some competitors like the Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro include.

Key Specifications: The Numbers That Matter

Price Point & Value Positioning

The Echo Buds 2 launched at $119.99 for the standard USB-C charging version and $139.99 for the wireless charging case model. However, in 2025, I've frequently seen these drop to as low as $34-55 during Amazon sales events like Prime Day, making them an absolute steal.

To put this in perspective, the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) retail for $249, the Sony WF-1000XM4 hover around $278, and even the Google Pixel Buds Pro command $199. The Echo Buds 2 deliver 70-80% of the performance at less than half the street price.

Design & Build Quality: Compact, Comfortable, and Well-Crafted

Visual Appeal & Aesthetic Design

Amazon clearly took feedback from the bulky first-generation Echo Buds to heart. The 2nd gen models are 20% smaller and lighter, with a sleeker, more refined aesthetic that doesn't scream "budget earbuds." Available in Glacier White or Black finishes, both feature a matte coating that resists fingerprints and scratches admirably.

The charging case is remarkably compact—about the size of a dental floss container—making it easy to slip into jeans pockets or small purses. The lid has a satisfying magnetic snap, and the LED indicators on the front subtly show battery status without being obnoxious. Compared to the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds' boat-anchor case, the Echo Buds 2 case is genuinely pocketable.

Materials and Construction Quality

Build quality exceeds expectations for this price point. The earbuds feature a combination of matte and glossy plastic with IPX4 water resistance certification, meaning they can handle sweat from intense gym workouts and light rain splashes without issue. According to Amazon's safety documentation, they meet IEC 60529 IPX4 standards.

However, they're not waterproof—don't wear these swimming or in the shower. The charging pins on the case are gold-plated for better conductivity and longevity, and the USB-C port feels robust enough to withstand daily charging cycles.

Ergonomics & Wearability: How They Actually Feel

Comfort is subjective, but the Echo Buds 2 nailed it for my medium-sized ears. The included three sizes of silicone ear tips (similar to what AirPods Pro offer) ensure most people will find a secure fit. The ear tip sizing test in the Alexa app uses audio frequencies to determine if you've got a proper seal—a feature I found genuinely useful and wish more manufacturers would implement.

The nozzle design creates effective acoustic isolation without that "diving bell effect" some ANC earbuds produce. I wore these for 3-hour coding sessions and 90-minute gym workouts without any discomfort, ear fatigue, or that annoying "my earbuds are falling out" anxiety. They stay put during jogging, weightlifting, and even jumping rope, though they lack dedicated wing tips that something like the Jabra Elite Active 75t provides.

Long-Term Wear Assessment

Unlike over-ear workout headphones, in-ear buds inevitably create some ear canal pressure. With the Echo Buds 2, I found I could comfortably wear them for 2-3 hours straight before needing a break. The lightweight 5.7-gram design helps minimize fatigue, though they're not quite as comfortable as the ultra-light Nothing Ear 1 for marathon listening sessions.

The matte finish prevents that gross slippery feeling some glossy earbuds develop with sweat. After gym sessions, a quick wipe-down with a microfiber cloth keeps them hygienic.

Performance Analysis: Where the Echo Buds 2 Shine (and Stumble)

Core Functionality: How Well Do They Actually Work?

Let's cut through the marketing jargon and talk about real-world performance. The Echo Buds 2 deliver solid, balanced audio quality that competes admirably with earbuds costing twice as much. They won't satisfy audiophiles who demand reference-level accuracy, but for everyday listening to Spotify, Amazon Music HD, podcasts, and YouTube videos, they're more than adequate.

Sound Quality & Audio Performance

Frequency Response & Tonal Balance

The 5.7mm dynamic drivers produce a consumer-friendly sound signature with slightly elevated bass response, clear midrange, and adequate treble extension. Testing with a variety of genres revealed:

• Bass Response: Punchy and present without overwhelming the mix. Electronic tracks from Daft Punk and hip-hop from Travis Scott have satisfying sub-bass rumble, though they don't match the bass-heavy Skullcandy Crusher Evo. Bass heads might find them slightly restrained.
• Midrange: Vocals are clear and forward in the mix. Listening to Rag 'n'Bone Man and Alison Krauss, I could discern vocal textures and nuances without straining. Guitar-driven rock from Led Zeppelin sounded full-bodied and engaging.
• Treble: Here's where the Echo Buds 2 show their budget roots. High-frequency extension is decent but not spectacular. Cymbals and hi-hats lack the shimmering brilliance of premium earbuds like the Sony WF-1000XM4. The treble is smooth and fatigue-free, which is great for extended listening, but lacks the air and sparkle that audiophiles crave.

Soundstage & Imaging

The stereo panorama is respectable for closed-back in-ear headphones. Listening to orchestral recordings, I could distinguish instrument placement with reasonable accuracy. The soundstage won't blow your mind like open-back headphones, but it's sufficiently wide for an immersive listening experience. Spatial audio is notably absent—a feature Apple reserves for its ecosystem with AirPods Pro.

Equalizer & Sound Customization

The Alexa app includes a three-band equalizer (bass, mids, treble) that actually works. I appreciated being able to tweak the sound signature to match different genres. Cranking up the treble helped with classical music, while boosting bass made EDM tracks more engaging. It's not the parametric EQ you'd find in audiophile apps, but it's sufficient for casual tuning.

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) Performance

This is where budget earbuds typically fall flat, but the Echo Buds 2 surprised me. Amazon's switch from active noise reduction (ANR) in the first generation to genuine active noise cancellation makes a meaningful difference.

Quantitative Measurements

Amazon claims up to 28dB of noise attenuation. In my real-world testing with a sound meter app and controlled environments:

• Low-frequency rumble: (subway trains, airplane engines) – Reduced by approximately 70-75%. Not quite Sony WF-1000XM4 levels, but noticeably better than cheap ANC pretenders.
• Mid-frequency noise: (traffic, office chatter) – Reduced by about 60-65%. Effective for focusing in coffee shops.
• High-frequency sounds: (keyboard clicks, baby cries) – Reduced by roughly 40-50%. This is typical for in-ear ANC; passive isolation from the ear tips does most of the heavy lifting here.

Real-World ANC Testing Scenarios

I tested these in multiple environments that reveal ANC strengths and weaknesses:

• Subway commute: ANC effectively muted the rumble of the train and track noise. Announcements were still audible (safety first!), but I could listen to podcasts at comfortable volumes without cranking the volume to unsafe levels.
• Open-plan office: ANC knocked down the ambient chatter and HVAC hum by about 60-70%. Not total silence, but enough to enter a focused flow state. Comparable to Jabra Elite 85t performance.
• Coffee shop: Background music, espresso machine noise, and conversation blur effectively faded into the background. I could work on writing and research without distraction.
• Gym: This is where ANC matters less (you need ambient sound awareness for safety), but enabling workout mode maintained sufficient isolation from grunting gym-bros while still letting me hear approaching equipment.

Transparency Mode (Ambient Sound)

The Echo Buds 2 feature a passthrough mode that pipes outside audio through the microphones. It works, but it's not natural-sounding like AirPods Pro's transparency mode. There's a noticeable digital quality and slight amplification that makes conversations sound artificial. I found myself just removing an earbud when I needed to talk to someone.

Microphone Performance & Call Quality

Each earbud houses a 4-microphone array with beamforming technology and noise reduction algorithms. Call quality is a pleasant surprise:

Voice Pickup & Clarity

On Zoom calls and phone conversations, people consistently reported my voice sounded clear and natural. The beamforming microphones effectively isolate speech from background noise. Testing in a busy coffee shop, my colleague said they could barely hear the ambient chatter—the mics focused tightly on my voice.

Wind Noise Handling

Outdoor calls in moderate wind revealed some limitations. While better than many competitors, wind gusts still create noticeable buffeting. Not a deal-breaker for occasional outdoor calls, but if you're frequently taking calls while walking outdoors, consider dedicated calling earbuds like the Jabra Evolve2 65.

Sidetone Feature

The Echo Buds 2 lack sidetone (hearing your own voice during calls), which some people miss. I didn't find this bothersome, but if you're used to sidetone on other earbuds, be aware it's absent here.

Battery Life: Adequate but Not Class-Leading

Battery performance is respectable but not exceptional:

For context, the AirPods Pro deliver 4.5 hours with ANC, so the Echo Buds 2 are competitive. However, the Sony WF-1000XM4 crush them with 8 hours of ANC playback.

The fast charging feature is genuinely useful—a 15-minute top-up gives you enough juice for a commute or workout. The charging case uses USB-C (thank you, Amazon, for not sticking with micro-USB), and the optional Qi wireless charging version adds convenience if you already have charging pads around your home.

Bluetooth Connectivity & Range

The Echo Buds 2 use Bluetooth 5.0, which provides solid connectivity and range. In my testing:

• Wireless range: Maintained stable connection up to 35 feet indoors through one wall, 50+ feet outdoors with line of sight.
• Connection stability: Zero dropouts during normal use. Pairing is quick and reliable with both iPhone and Android devices.
• Latency: Minimal lag for video streaming on YouTube and Netflix. Not ideal for gaming (no low-latency mode), but fine for casual use.
• Codec support: SBC and AAC codecs only. No aptX, aptX HD, or LDAC. Not a huge issue since most streaming services don't require high-res codecs, but audiophiles might care.

User Experience: The Daily Reality of Using Echo Buds 2

Setup & Installation: Getting Started

Setup is refreshingly simple, especially if you're already in the Amazon ecosystem. The process takes about 3 minutes:

1. Download the Alexa app (free on iOS and Android)
2. Open the charging case near your phone
3. The app automatically detects the Echo Buds and walks you through pairing
4. Run the ear tip fit test to ensure proper seal
5. Customize touch controls and enable features

If you're not an Amazon user, you can still pair these like any Bluetooth device, but you'll miss out on firmware updates, EQ customization, and Alexa integration. Non-Alexa users might be better served by the Google Pixel Buds Pro or AirPods Pro for their respective ecosystems.

Daily Usage: Living with the Echo Buds 2

Typical Day Scenario

Here's how the Echo Buds 2 integrated into my daily routine over six weeks:

Morning commute (45 minutes): I'd pop in the earbuds, say "Alexa, play my Discover Weekly playlist," and ANC would kick in to block subway noise. Battery would be at 100% from overnight charging. The passive fit test reminder occasionally popped up if I didn't have a perfect seal.

Work sessions (3-4 hours intermittent): ANC mode helped me focus in my noisy open office. Transparency mode worked adequately for quick conversations with colleagues, though I usually just removed one earbud. Battery typically dropped to 40-50% by lunchtime with ANC constantly enabled.

Afternoon workouts (60-90 minutes): After a 15-minute quick charge, I'd head to the gym. The IPX4 rating held up perfectly through sweaty HIIT sessions. Touch controls for volume and playback occasionally misregistered when adjusting the fit during exercise.

Evening wind-down: Back in the charging case for overnight charging via USB-C. The case's compact size made it easy to keep on my nightstand.

Touch Controls & Interface

The Echo Buds 2 use touch-sensitive surfaces on each earbud for controls. They're customizable through the Alexa app, with default mappings:

• Single tap: Play/pause (both buds)
• Double tap: Skip forward (right) / Skip back (left)
• Triple tap: Next track (right) / Previous track (left)
• Long press: Cycle ANC/Passthrough/Off (both buds)
• Wake word: "Alexa" activates hands-free voice control

Touch Control Accuracy

Touch responsiveness is about 85% accurate. Most of the time, taps register correctly, but I experienced occasional false triggers when adjusting the earbuds' position or putting on a jacket hood. The long-press gesture sometimes requires holding longer than feels natural. Not deal-breakers, but noticeable compared to the precise controls on AirPods Pro.

Wear Detection & Auto-Pause

The Echo Buds 2 include proximity sensors that detect when you remove an earbud, automatically pausing playback. This worked reliably in my testing—a genuinely useful feature that's become table stakes for premium earbuds. Popping a bud back in resumes playback after a 1-2 second delay.

Alexa Integration: The Echo Buds' Secret Weapon

If you're invested in the Amazon ecosystem, the hands-free Alexa voice control is a game-changer. Simply say "Alexa" and the buds activate, ready for commands:

• "Alexa, play chill music" – Starts Amazon Music
• "Alexa, what's the weather?" – Provides local forecast
• "Alexa, set a timer for 10 minutes" – Works seamlessly while cooking
• "Alexa, turn off the living room lights" – Smart home control (if you have Philips Hue, Ring, etc.)
• "Alexa, read my Audible book" – Resume audiobook playback

The VIP Filter feature lets you receive notifications from specific contacts—useful for important calls while filtering out spam. Drop In and Intercom features work if you have other Echo devices, turning your earbuds into a whole-home communication system.

Find My Feature

Lost an earbud? The Alexa app includes a Find My feature that plays a loud beeping sound from the earbuds. It's not as sophisticated as Apple's AirTag network, but it helped me locate a bud that fell between couch cushions. The case doesn't have Find My support, only the individual earbuds.

Learning Curve: How Quickly Can You Master Them?

There's virtually no learning curve. If you've used any true wireless earbuds before, you'll feel at home within 10 minutes. The Alexa app provides helpful tutorials, and the interface is intuitive. Even my tech-averse parents figured out basic controls within an hour.

The only complexity comes from Alexa's deep feature set—there are dozens of voice commands and smart home integrations to explore, but you can ignore these if you just want basic earbud functionality.

Comparative Analysis: How Echo Buds 2 Stack Up Against Competitors

Direct Competitor Comparison

Value Proposition Analysis

When you factor in price-to-performance ratio, the Echo Buds 2 are remarkably competitive:

• Best overall value: Echo Buds 2 deliver 75-80% of the performance of $200+ competitors at half the cost
• Best for audiophiles: Sony WF-1000XM4 (if budget allows)
• Best for Apple users: AirPods Pro (seamless ecosystem integration)
• Best for Android: Google Pixel Buds Pro
• Best for Amazon/Alexa users: Echo Buds 2 (hands-free Alexa is killer feature)

Unique Selling Points: What Sets Echo Buds 2 Apart

1. Unbeatable price-to-performance ratio: Genuine ANC and good sound quality for under $120 (often much less on sale)
2. Hands-free Alexa integration: No other earbuds offer wake-word Alexa activation with this level of polish
3. Compact, pocketable design: Smaller than most ANC competitors
4. Ear tip fit test: Smart feature that ensures optimal seal for ANC and sound quality
5. Amazon ecosystem synergy: Works seamlessly with Echo devices, Fire TV, Alexa smart home

When to Choose Echo Buds 2 Over Competitors

When to Skip Echo Buds 2

Pros and Cons: The Unvarnished Truth

Real User Testimonials

Purchase Recommendations: Who Should (and Shouldn't) Buy

Best For:

Skip If:

Alternative Recommendations by Use Case

Where to Buy: Get the Best Deal on Echo Buds 2

Current Pricing & Deals

The Echo Buds (2nd Gen) have fluctuated wildly in price since launch. Here's the pricing landscape in December 2025:

• MSRP: $119.99 (USB-C charging) / $139.99 (wireless charging)
• Typical street price: $55-85
• Sale price (Prime Day, Black Friday): $34-55
• Best deal seen: $34.99 during October 2025 Prime Day event

What to Watch For: Seasonal Pricing Patterns

Based on 2025 pricing trends, the best times to buy Echo Buds 2:

• Prime Day (July): Consistently the deepest discounts, often 60-70% off
• Black Friday / Cyber Monday: Typically 50-60% off MSRP
• Amazon Prime Member Deals: Exclusive early access to lightning deals
• End-of-month clearance: Occasional surprise sales to hit quotas

What's Included & Warranty

Amazon provides a 1-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. Extended protection plans are available at checkout for 2-3 years of additional coverage. Amazon Prime members get hassle-free returns within 30 days, which I highly recommend utilizing to test these earbuds in your specific use cases.

Final Verdict: Are the Echo Buds 2 Worth Buying in 2025?

The Bottom Line

After six weeks of intensive real-world testing, I can confidently recommend the Amazon Echo Buds (2nd Gen) to anyone seeking affordable true wireless earbuds with genuine active noise cancellation. These aren't perfect—the battery life is average, transparency mode needs work, and multipoint Bluetooth is conspicuously absent—but they deliver exceptional value for the price.

At the frequently discounted price of $34-75, the Echo Buds 2 are borderline unbeatable. Even at full $119 MSRP, they compete admirably with earbuds costing twice as much. The hands-free Alexa integration is genuinely useful if you're in the Amazon ecosystem, and the ANC performance punches well above its weight class.

Who Wins With Echo Buds 2?

You'll love these if you're a budget-conscious shopper who wants premium features without premium prices, an Amazon/Alexa user looking for seamless ecosystem integration, or a commuter/gym-goer who needs effective noise cancellation. First-time ANC buyers will find these perfect for exploring the technology without massive investment.

Who Should Look Elsewhere?

Audiophiles, Apple ecosystem devotees, and anyone requiring best-in-class ANC should invest in premium alternatives. If you need multipoint Bluetooth or exceptional battery life, competitors like the Jabra Elite 85t or Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro make more sense.

My Personal Take

I genuinely enjoyed using the Echo Buds 2. They've become my daily drivers for commuting and gym sessions, relegating my more expensive AirPods Pro to critical listening sessions. The convenience of saying "Alexa, play my workout playlist" while my hands are full with gym bags is worth the price of admission alone.

If Amazon catches these on sale—which happens frequently—don't hesitate. At $34-55, they're the best value in wireless earbuds period. Even at $119, they're competitive with products costing $200+. The Echo Buds 2 prove that good audio technology doesn't have to break the bank.

Score Breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Echo Buds 2 worth buying in 2025?

Absolutely, especially if you catch them on sale. At $34-75, they're unbeatable. Even at full $119 MSRP, they offer excellent value for anyone wanting ANC earbuds without spending $200+.

Do Echo Buds 2 work with iPhone?

Yes, they work with any Bluetooth-enabled device including iPhone. However, you'll need the Alexa app (free on iOS) to access advanced features like EQ customization and firmware updates. Siri is supported, but Alexa integration is obviously better on Android.

How is the ANC compared to AirPods Pro?

The AirPods Pro have better ANC, particularly for mid-frequency noise. In side-by-side testing, I'd say AirPods Pro are about 10-15% more effective at noise reduction. However, the Echo Buds 2 deliver 80-85% of AirPods Pro performance at less than half the price—excellent value.

Can I use them for working out?

Yes! The IPX4 rating makes them sweat and splash resistant, perfect for gym workouts. They stayed secure during my HIIT sessions, weightlifting, and running. Check out our guide to the best headphones for working out for more options.

Do they support wireless charging?

The $119 base model uses USB-C charging only. The $139.99 version includes a Qi-certified wireless charging case. Both versions charge the earbuds identically—only the case charging method differs.

What's the difference between Echo Buds 2nd Gen and 3rd Gen?

According to RTINGS comparison, the 2nd Gen has better ANC, superior microphone performance, and more stable fit for workouts. The 3rd Gen (2023 release) has a less deep in-ear fit and better ambient awareness but lacks true ANC. For most users, the 2nd Gen is the better choice.

How long does the battery actually last?

In my real-world testing, I got 4 hours 45 minutes with ANC on at 50% volume, close to Amazon's 5-hour claim. Battery life extends to about 6.5 hours with ANC off. The charging case provides roughly 15 hours total (ANC on) or 19.5 hours (ANC off).

Can I use just one earbud at a time?

Yes, both earbuds work independently. You can use just the left or right earbud for calls or music, which is useful for staying aware of your surroundings or conserving battery.

Do they have multipoint Bluetooth?

No, unfortunately the Echo Buds 2 do not support multipoint connection. You can only connect to one device at a time. Switching between devices requires manual disconnection and reconnection.

Are they good for phone calls?

Yes, call quality is quite good. The 4-microphone array with beamforming technology effectively isolates your voice from background noise. Colleagues consistently reported clear audio on Zoom calls, even when I was in noisy environments.

What's the best price for Echo Buds 2?

Based on 2025 pricing trends, $50 or below is an excellent deal. They frequently drop to $34-55 during Amazon sale events like Prime Day and Black Friday. Use price tracking tools like CamelCamelCamel to get alerts when they hit your target price.

Related Articles You Might Like:

• 📱 Best Headphones for Working Out – Complete guide to gym-friendly audio gear
• 🎧 Best Over-Ear Headphones for Working Out – If you prefer over-ear style
• 💻 Best Laptops for College – Pair your Echo Buds with the perfect laptop
• 🎮 Best Headphones for PS5 – Gaming audio recommendations
• 📷 Best Smartphones for Photography – Top camera phones of 2025