Image © ApplePriced about right
Apple EarPods (USB-C) are wired earbuds designed with a geometry based on the human ear for comfort, featuring a built-in remote for volume, playback, and call control, and delivering high-quality audio with deep bass.
The Apple EarPods with USB-C are an affordable, wired option that relies on a 14.2 mm dynamic driver to produce a sound signature with prominent bass and clear but slightly thin mids. Their open design offers good situational awareness and comfort, though it means they lack noise isolation and may require a careful fit for best performance. They are best suited for calls, casual listening, and everyday use rather than critical audio work.
Paraphrased from published reviews & specs - not an original hands-on test. Our AI disclosure.
| Driver | 14.2 mm dynamic |
|---|---|
| Driver type | dynamic |
| Driver size | 14.2 mm |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz - 20 kHz |
| Driver | 14.2 mm dynamic |
|---|---|
| Driver type | dynamic |
| Driver size | 14.2 mm |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz - 20 kHz |
| Active noise cancelling | No |
|---|---|
| Controls | buttons |
| Water resistance | none |
|---|---|
| USB-C | Yes |
| Microphones | 1 |
|---|
Retailers we matched to this exact model. Prices are periodic snapshots - the link always opens the retailer's current listing.
2 source(s) feeding this product's score. 1 more source(s) feed the score but are not listed, at the publisher's request.
Video reviews we found, each condensed to its verdict. They do feed the HearWiki score, at a measured weight below what a published written review carries.
Reviewers agree that the USB-C Apple EarPods are a surprisingly good budget option at around $20, with the inline microphone being the standout feature for clear calls and recordings, and support for lossless audio up to 24-bit/48kHz.
6:57The reviewer finds the USB-C EarPods to be a surprisingly good value at $20, with decent sound quality that exceeds low expectations, though lacking bass and isolation. The inline microphone is highlighted as excellent for calls, making them a solid backup option for those who prefer wired earbuds or need low latency.
5:25The reviewer confirms that Apple EarPods with USB-C can play Apple Music lossless audio, but only up to 24-bit/48kHz (CD quality), not high-resolution lossless. He notes the EarPods sound warm but lack detail in highs, mids, and bass, and recommends better budget IEMs or over-ear headphones for a more detailed lossless experience.
8:04The reviewer finds the Apple EarPods USB-C to be a decent budget option, especially for its price and microphone performance in quiet conditions, but notes that the wired design is inconvenient and sound quality is only average. They conclude that while it has nostalgic appeal and works well for calls, it's not a serious competitor to wireless earbuds for most users.
3:10The reviewer praises the USB-C EarPods' microphone quality, highlighting its clear audio for calls and recordings due to the wired connection and close mic placement. They recommend it for users with multiple USB-C Apple devices, noting it's a great budget option at $19, though they acknowledge Bluetooth alternatives like AirPods Pro 2 offer more convenience.
8:48The reviewer finds the USB-C Apple EarPods to be a surprisingly good value at $19, praising their clear microphone quality, lossless audio support, and zero latency for calls and video editing. They recommend buying multiple pairs as backup or desk headphones, but note the open-ear design limits bass and lacks features like noise cancellation, and fit depends on ear shape.
Summaries are AI condensations of each video's own conclusion, not transcripts. Titles, thumbnails and view counts belong to their channels.
A minute of your experience with the Apple EarPods (USB-C) helps the next person shopping for them.
Other wired iems models at a comparable price, ordered by HearWiki score.
Other Apple models in the database, same category first.
The data-driven guides this model qualifies for.
