Adam Levell, Author at iTech Level

Best Noise-Cancelling Earbuds (2026): 7 Picks Ranked by Measured ANC

Leave a Comment / Audio, Wireless Earbuds

The best noise-cancelling earbuds you can buy are the Apple AirPods Pro 3: SoundGuys measured a 90 percent average reduction in outside noise, the highest it has ever recorded. On Android, get the Sony WF-1000XM6 (88 percent) or the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen). For less, the Sony WF-C710N and the CMF Buds 2 Plus cancel noise far better than their prices suggest.

Noise cancelling isn’t hearing protection: on a construction site or in a machine shop you need NRR-rated earbuds, like the ones in our best earbuds for loud work.

Check the Apple AirPods Pro 3 on Amazon →

How we put this together: this guide ranks earbuds mainly on published noise-cancelling measurements from SoundGuys, which has measured more than 100 noise-cancelling earbuds, plus manufacturers’ specifications and other independent reviews (linked in each pick). It is not based on hands-on testing by iTech Level. Prices are list prices at the time of writing and change often. See how we choose products.

Best noise-cancelling earbuds compared

Earbuds	Best for	Noise cancelling (SoundGuys)	Battery with ANC
Apple AirPods Pro 3	Best overall, best for iPhone	90% average reduction; 9.0/10	Up to 8 hr	Check Price
Sony WF-1000XM6	Best for Android	88% average reduction; 8.8/10	Up to 8 hr	Check Price
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)	Most comfortable	SoundGuys’ best for Android	Up to 6 hr	Check Price
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 5	Best sound, longest-lasting	Adaptive ANC	Up to 6 hr	Check Price
Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro	Best for Samsung	84% average reduction	Up to 6 hr	Check Price
Sony WF-C710N	Best value	8.5/10	About 9 hr (SoundGuys)	Check Price
CMF Buds 2 Plus	Cheapest that’s still good	83% average reduction; 8.3/10	About 9 hr (SoundGuys)	Check Price

Noise-cancelling figures are SoundGuys’ lab measurements (average reduction in outside noise across frequencies) and scores out of 10. Battery figures are the makers’ ratings with noise cancelling on, unless marked as SoundGuys’ measurement. Results depend on a good ear-tip seal, so your experience can differ.

The best noise-cancelling earbuds in 2026

1. Apple AirPods Pro 3: best overall

The AirPods Pro 3 have the strongest noise cancelling SoundGuys has measured in earbuds: a 90 percent average reduction, and a 9.0/10 noise-cancelling score that earns them its best-overall pick. Apple says they remove up to twice as much noise as the AirPods Pro 2. They last up to 8 hours per charge with noise cancelling on, are rated IP57, and come with five ear-tip sizes from XXS to L, which helps get the tight seal noise cancelling depends on (Apple specs).

Good to know: they’re made for the iPhone. On Android they cancel noise just as well, but you lose most of the smart features, such as automatic switching, Live Translation and the Ear Tip Fit Test. See our best earbuds for iPhone for more.

Check the AirPods Pro 3 on Amazon →

2. Sony WF-1000XM6: best for Android

Sony’s WF-1000XM6 (February 2026) are the closest rival to the AirPods Pro 3. SoundGuys measured an 88 percent average noise reduction, up from 87 percent on the XM5, and found their passive isolation, the noise blocked by the fit alone, is better than Apple’s. It also praises their sound and “outstanding” microphones for calls. They support LDAC hi-res audio and multipoint on Android, are rated IPX4, and last up to 8 hours per charge (24 with the case).

Good to know: they’re the most expensive pick, and SoundGuys notes the larger buds may not suit smaller ears. If that’s you, see our best earbuds for small ears.

Check the WF-1000XM6 on Amazon →

3. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen): most comfortable

Bose’s earbuds are SoundGuys’ pick for Android and a long-time favourite for flights and commutes. What Hi-Fi? praises their outstanding noise cancelling and design, and the stability-band fit is comfortable for long wear. Bose rates them at up to 6 hours per charge (4 with Immersive Audio), with three more charges in a wireless-charging case, plus multipoint and IPX4 (Bose).

Good to know: battery life is the shortest of the premium picks, and SoundGuys calls the second generation a modest update over the first. They’re often discounted.

Check the Bose QC Ultra Earbuds on Amazon →

4. Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 5: best sound, longest-lasting

The Momentum True Wireless 5 are for listeners who put sound first. T3 calls them comfortable and terrific to listen to, with great noise cancelling, at a fair price. They have adaptive noise cancelling with automatic wind adjustment, aptX Lossless and aptX Adaptive on Snapdragon Sound Android phones, four mics per earbud, and up to 6 hours per charge with noise cancelling on (40 hours in total with the case). Unusually, the batteries in the earbuds and case are replaceable, so they should last longer than most earbuds.

Good to know: on an iPhone they stream over AAC, so the hi-res codecs don’t help, and the AirPods Pro 3 cancel more noise for less money.

Check the Momentum True Wireless 5 on Amazon →

5. Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro: best for Samsung

On a Galaxy phone, the Buds 4 Pro are the natural choice. SoundGuys measured an 84 percent average noise reduction, 5–10 dB better than the previous model, and they add Samsung’s 24-bit/96kHz codec, head gestures and an IP57 rating. Battery life is up to 6 hours per charge with noise cancelling on.

Good to know: many of the extras only work with a Samsung phone, and there’s no true multipoint. Our best earbuds for Samsung Galaxy has more Samsung options, including the cheaper Buds 3 FE.

Check the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro on Amazon →

6. Sony WF-C710N: best under $150

SoundGuys names the WF-C710N its best budget noise-cancelling earbuds, scoring the noise cancelling 8.5/10. You also get multipoint, IPX4, about 9 hours per charge in SoundGuys’ testing and up to 30 hours with the case.

Good to know: they don’t have the hi-res codecs or the call quality of Sony’s flagship. For more options at this price, see our best earbuds under $150.

Check the Sony WF-C710N on Amazon →

7. CMF Buds 2 Plus: the cheapest that are still good

The CMF Buds 2 Plus, from Nothing’s budget brand, cut outside noise by 83 percent on average in SoundGuys’ testing, “comparable to earbuds that cost twice as much”, and score 8.3/10 for noise cancelling. They add LDAC hi-res audio on Android, a custom EQ in the Nothing X app, about 9 hours per charge and an IP55 rating. They’re often discounted.

Good to know: LDAC only helps on Android, and on an iPhone you manage them through the Nothing X app rather than iOS settings. They’re also the top noise-cancelling pick in our best earbuds under $100. For even cheaper options, see our best earbuds under $50 for Android.

Check the CMF Buds 2 Plus on Amazon →

Will they last your flight on one charge?

Flights are where noise cancelling matters most, and earbuds can’t play for as long as over-ear headphones. So we checked each pick’s battery life per charge with noise cancelling on against two common trips: a coast-to-coast US flight of about 6 hours and a transatlantic flight of about 8 hours. These are best-case figures at moderate volume, and boarding and taxiing add time, so treat “Only just” as “probably not”.

Earbuds	ANC on, per charge	Coast to coast (~6 h)	Transatlantic (~8 h)
Sony WF-C710N	9 h (SoundGuys test)	Yes	Yes
CMF Buds 2 Plus	9 h (SoundGuys test)	Yes	Yes
Apple AirPods Pro 3	8 h (rated)	Yes	Only just
Sony WF-1000XM6	8 h (rated)	Yes	Only just
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)	6 h (rated)	Only just	No: needs a break in the case
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 5	6 h (rated)	Only just	No: needs a break in the case
Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro	6 h (rated)	Only just	No: needs a break in the case

Two things stand out. The cheapest picks, the Sony WF-C710N and CMF Buds 2 Plus, last longest per charge, though their figures come from SoundGuys’ tests rather than maker ratings, so they aren’t measured the same way. Among the premium picks, the AirPods Pro 3 and WF-1000XM6 only just cover a transatlantic flight, and the Bose, Sennheiser and Samsung won’t make it in one go. On a long-haul flight of 11 hours or more, every pair here needs at least one break in the case. The easy fix is a short top-up in the case during the meal service.

Watch: AirPods Pro 3 vs Sony WF-1000XM6

Our top two picks are close, and the right one mostly depends on your phone. SoundGuys, whose noise-cancelling measurements we use in the table above, compare them side by side in this 14-minute video.

Video by SoundGuys, embedded from YouTube. Watch on YouTube.

New spec check every week: subscribe on YouTube.

How to get the most from noise-cancelling earbuds

The seal matters most. Noise cancelling works with the ear tip, not instead of it. If the tip is too small or too big, low rumble leaks in and the cancelling sounds weak. Try every tip size, and use a fit test if your earbuds have one.
Expect rumble to vanish, not voices. Noise cancelling is best at steady, low sounds like engines, trains and air conditioning. Voices and sudden noises are harder to cancel, even on the best earbuds.
Battery drops with it on. Every pick here lasts longer with noise cancelling off, often by an hour or more per charge.
For long flights, consider over-ear headphones. The best earbuds now come very close, but over-ear headphones are often more comfortable for hours at a time and last longer per charge. See our best noise-cancelling headphones.

Also worth a look

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 FE: SoundGuys measured about 86 percent noise reduction, more than Samsung’s pricier Pro model of the same generation, for under $150. Best on a Samsung phone; no multipoint or wireless charging.
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2: strong noise cancelling in a very small, light design; the pick for Pixel owners. See our Pixel earbuds guide.
Soundcore P30i: the cheapest way to get noise cancelling, usually well under $50, though it’s well behind every pick above.

Specs from the makers, side by side

Every figure below comes from the manufacturer’s own spec page, taken from our earbuds and headphones spec database. “Not stated” means the maker doesn’t publish it, not that the feature is missing.

Model	Battery	Weight	Water rating	Connection	Maker doesn’t state
Sony WF-1000XM6	ANC on: 8 h ANC off: 12 h	6.5 g	IPX4	Bluetooth 5.3	latency, total with case (not on spec page)
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)	ANC on: 6 h	7.3 (0.016 lb)	IPX4	Bluetooth 5.3	codecs, multipoint, latency, total with case
Sony WF-C710N	ANC on: 8.5 h ANC off: 12 h	5.2 g	IPX4	Bluetooth 5.3	latency, total with case
CMF by Nothing Buds 2 Plus	ANC on: 7.5 (AAC) ANC off: 14 (AAC) with case: 33 (ANC on) / 61.5 (ANC off), AAC	Not stated	IP55 (earbuds; case not waterproof)	Bluetooth	Bluetooth version, weight, latency
Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro	ANC on: 6 h ANC off: 7 h with case: 26 (ANC on) / 30 (ANC off)	Not stated	IP57	Bluetooth 6.1	weight, codecs, latency, multipoint

Our verdict

For the strongest noise cancelling in earbuds, get the AirPods Pro 3, especially with an iPhone. On Android, the Sony WF-1000XM6 come within a whisker and add LDAC and excellent mics, while the Bose QC Ultra Earbuds are the most comfortable. Sound lovers should look at the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 5, and Samsung owners at the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro. On a budget, the Sony WF-C710N and CMF Buds 2 Plus deliver real noise cancelling for a fraction of the price.

Black Friday 2026: what to expect

Next sale: Black Friday

Prime Big Deal Days has ended. Black Friday is November 27, 2026, and Cyber Monday is November 30. Amazon's Black Friday deals often start a few days early. Some Amazon Black Friday deals are for Prime members only. New members can start a free Prime trial (eligible customers; it becomes paid unless you cancel). Our picks are chosen on year-round value, not just sale pricing; tap any link to see today's price.

Black Friday 2026 is November 27, with many deals starting the week before and running through Cyber Monday (November 30). Last year the AirPods Pro 3 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) both dropped well below their list prices around Black Friday, so a small cut on either is worth waiting out.

The Sony WF-1000XM6 and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro launched in 2026, so they have no Black Friday history yet; judge them against their list prices and Prime Big Deal Days prices.
Budget picks like the CMF Buds 2 Plus are often discounted below their $79 list all year, so don’t overpay for a “Black Friday” label.
Compare against the price history, not the “was” price.

Frequently asked questions

Which earbuds have the best noise cancelling?

The Apple AirPods Pro 3. SoundGuys measured a 90 percent average reduction in outside noise, the highest it has recorded in earbuds. The Sony WF-1000XM6 are close behind at 88 percent, with better passive isolation, and the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) are the most comfortable of the top picks.

AirPods Pro 3 or Sony WF-1000XM6 for noise cancelling?

For pure noise cancelling, the AirPods Pro 3 measure slightly better (90 vs 88 percent in SoundGuys’ tests), but most people won’t notice the difference. Choose by phone: the AirPods Pro 3 for an iPhone, the WF-1000XM6 for Android, where they add LDAC and multipoint.

What are the best cheap noise-cancelling earbuds?

The Sony WF-C710N, which SoundGuys rates 8.5/10 for noise cancelling, and the CMF Buds 2 Plus, which cut outside noise by 83 percent on average. The Soundcore P30i are cheaper still but cancel much less noise.

Are noise-cancelling earbuds as good as over-ear headphones?

The best earbuds now come very close for noise cancelling, and they’re far more portable. Over-ear headphones still tend to be more comfortable for long flights and last longer per charge, so frequent flyers may prefer them.

Why doesn’t noise cancelling work well in my earbuds?

Usually because the ear tips don’t seal. Try a different tip size in each ear and run your earbuds’ fit test if they have one. Also remember that noise cancelling is strongest on steady low sounds like engines; voices and sudden noises always get through more.

Best Laptops for Video Editing (2026): Windows Picks and Which MacBook to Buy

Best laptops for video editing compared

Laptop	Best for	Processor / graphics	Screen	Buy
ASUS ProArt P16 (2025)	Best Windows laptop overall	Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, RTX 5070 (as reviewed)	16″ OLED, 120Hz	Check price
Lenovo Yoga Pro 9i Aura Edition	Best screen for the money	Intel Core Ultra 9, RTX 5050 or 5060	16″ 3.2K tandem OLED, 120Hz	Check price
ASUS ProArt PX13 GoPro Edition	Most power in a small laptop	Ryzen AI Max+ 395, Radeon 8060S, 128GB	13.3″ 3K OLED touch, 60Hz	Check price
MacBook Pro 14 (M5 Pro)	Best for Mac users	Apple M5 Pro, ProRes engine	14.2″ XDR, 120Hz	Check price
Lenovo LOQ 15 Gen 10 (RTX 5060)	Best on a budget	Ryzen 7 250, RTX 5060	15.6″ IPS	Check price

The best laptops for video editing in 2026

1. ASUS ProArt P16 (2025): best Windows laptop for video editing

The ProArt P16 is built for creators first. It pairs an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 with Nvidia RTX 50-series graphics (the RTX 5070 in the reviewed configuration), a 16-inch OLED screen, and ASUS’s DialPad, a touch-sensitive dial on the touchpad for scrubbing timelines and adjusting brush size or exposure in creative apps. It’s 14.9 mm thin, weighs under 2 kg and is MIL-STD 810H rated. Stuff calls it “an impressive Windows laptop for creatives with lots of power, sublime looks and a gorgeous OLED screen”.

Good to know: it’s expensive, and the same reviews question whether the faster renders justify the premium over older models. ASUS has also announced a new 2026 ProArt P16 for this fall, with up to 128GB of memory and a 4K tandem OLED option, but no price yet (Android Headlines), so the 2025 model may get cheaper.

Check ProArt P16 prices on Amazon →

2. Lenovo Yoga Pro 9i Aura Edition: best screen for the money

The Yoga Pro 9i is the one to get if colour and brightness matter most. Last year’s Gen 10 impressed Notebookcheck with a 1,100-nit OLED that it calls one of the best screens on the market, and in the US it came with a Core Ultra 9 285H and RTX 5060. The new Gen 11 moves to Intel’s Core Ultra 300 (Panther Lake) chips with RTX 5050 or 5060 graphics and an optional 3.2K 120Hz tandem OLED (Ubergizmo).

Good to know: the RTX 5060 is a mid-range GPU, fine for 4K editing but slower than the ProArt P16 for heavy effects and exports. GPU wattage affects export times too; our laptop GPU power database lists it for over 200 laptop configurations. With the Gen 11 now out, a discounted Gen 10 is often the better value.

Check Yoga Pro 9i prices on Amazon →

3. ASUS ProArt PX13 GoPro Edition: most power in a small laptop

Tom’s Guide names the PX13 GoPro Edition the best Windows laptop for video editing. Inside a 3.1 lb, 13.3-inch convertible, it has AMD’s Ryzen AI Max+ 395 with Radeon 8060S graphics and 128GB of unified memory, up to 96GB of which can go to the GPU, plus a 3K OLED touchscreen covering 100% of DCI-P3. It comes with a pen, a carry case, a year of GoPro Premium+ and three months of Adobe Creative Cloud (The Gadgeteer).

Good to know: Tom’s Guide flags the 60Hz screen and the microSD (not full-size SD) slot, and reviewers note battery life doesn’t match a MacBook’s. It makes most sense for creators who travel and edit large projects on the road.

Check the ProArt PX13 GoPro Edition on Amazon →

4. MacBook Pro 14 (M5 Pro): best for Mac users

If you’re not tied to Windows, a MacBook Pro is still the easiest recommendation for editing: Tom’s Guide ranks the MacBook Pro first overall for video editing. The 14-inch M5 Pro model has a bright XDR display, a hardware ProRes engine, HDMI and a full-size SD card slot, 1TB of storage as standard, and much longer battery life than the Windows picks. It also runs Final Cut Pro, which is Mac-only. Our best MacBook for video editing guide compares the M5, M5 Pro and M5 Max models in detail.

Good to know: you can’t upgrade the memory or storage later, so buy the configuration you’ll need. Some Windows-only plugins and tools won’t run on a Mac.

Check the MacBook Pro 14 (M5 Pro) on Amazon →

5. Lenovo LOQ 15 Gen 10 (RTX 5060): best on a budget

Gaming laptops make capable budget editing machines, because an Nvidia RTX GPU speeds up effects and exports in Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve. The LOQ 15 Gen 10 with an RTX 5060, a Ryzen 7 250 and 16GB of DDR5 is our top pick in the gaming laptops under $1,200 guide, and it handles 1080p and 4K timelines for much less than a creator laptop.

Good to know: a budget gaming screen isn’t made for colour accuracy, so for client colour work pair it with a calibrated external monitor. 16GB of RAM is the minimum for 4K editing; 32GB is more comfortable, so check whether the memory can be upgraded.

Check the Lenovo LOQ 15 on Amazon →

Which MacBook for video editing: M5, M5 Pro or M5 Max?

If you edit on a Mac, the chip matters more than the size. The MacBook Pro 14 with M5 Pro above suits most editors; here’s how the rest of the range compares:

Model	Best for	Memory	ProRes engines	Display	Weight	Buy
MacBook Pro 14 (M5 Pro)	Best overall	24GB and up	1	14.2″ XDR, 1,000 nits SDR, 120Hz	3.5 lb	—
MacBook Pro 14 (M5)	Best value	16–32GB	Yes (hardware ProRes)	14.2″ XDR, 1,000 nits SDR, 120Hz	3.4 lb	—
MacBook Pro 14 or 16 (M5 Max)	8K, multicam, colour	Up to 128GB	2	14.2″ or 16.2″ XDR	3.6 / 4.7 lb	—
MacBook Pro 16 (M5 Pro)	Biggest screen	24GB and up	1	16.2″ XDR, 120Hz	4.7 lb	Check price
MacBook Air 15 (M5)	Light editing on a budget	16–32GB	Yes (hardware ProRes)	15.3″ Liquid Retina, 500 nits	3.3 lb	Check price

Specs from Apple’s tech specs pages for the 14-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Pro/M5 Max), 16-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Pro/M5 Max), 14-inch MacBook Pro (M5) and 15-inch MacBook Air (M5). Starting prices from Apple’s March 2026 announcement.

MacBook Pro 14 with M5: best value

The base 14-inch MacBook Pro is the cheapest way to get the XDR display, HDMI and an SD card slot. It comes with 1TB of storage. The M5 has a 10-core CPU, a 10-core GPU and hardware acceleration for H.264, HEVC, ProRes and ProRes RAW. Unlike the MacBook Air, it has a fan, so long exports hold their speed. It’s a good fit for YouTube, wedding and social video work in 4K.

Good to know: memory tops out at 32GB, bandwidth is 153GB/s, and the ports are Thunderbolt 4 rather than 5. Heavy multicam, 8K or complex Fusion and After Effects work will push you toward the M5 Pro.

Check the MacBook Pro 14 (M5) on Amazon →

MacBook Pro with M5 Max: best for 8K, multicam and colour grading

The M5 Max doubles the ProRes engines to two, which speeds up exports of multiple ProRes streams. It supports up to 128GB of unified memory with 460–614GB/s of bandwidth depending on the GPU, and starts with 2TB of storage. Apple says it’s up to 3x faster than the M4 Max in DaVinci Resolve Studio in its own testing. It comes in both sizes: the 14-inch at 3.6 lb, or the 16-inch at 4.7 lb for the larger screen.

Good to know: it’s the most expensive option, and it only pays off if your projects actually hit the limits of the M5 Pro. The 14-inch M5 Max is rated for slightly less battery life than the M5 Pro (20 vs 22 hours of video streaming).

Check MacBook Pro M5 Max models on Amazon →

MacBook Pro 16 with M5 Pro: best for a bigger screen

If you edit mostly at a desk but still travel, the 16-inch gives you a 16.2-inch XDR panel (3456 × 2234) with room for a full timeline and viewer, and it’s rated for up to 24 hours of video streaming. It has the same ports and M5 Pro chip options as the 14-inch.

Good to know: at 4.7 lb it’s over a pound heavier than the 14-inch, and it costs more.

Check the MacBook Pro 16 (M5 Pro) on Amazon →

MacBook Air 15 with M5: best for light editing on a budget

The MacBook Air uses the same M5 chip family, with hardware ProRes support, 16GB of memory and 512GB of storage as standard. The 15-inch model has the 10-core GPU and weighs 3.3 lb; the 13-inch has an 8-core GPU. For short-form social video, vlogs and simple 4K edits, it’s plenty.

Good to know: it has no fan, so long exports and effects-heavy timelines slow down as it heats up. The 500-nit display isn’t an XDR panel, so it’s not suited to HDR grading. There’s no HDMI or SD slot, just two Thunderbolt 4 ports. If you find last year’s MacBook Air 15 (M4) heavily discounted, it’s a reasonable alternative for the same kind of work.

Check the MacBook Air 15 (M5) on Amazon →

What matters in a video editing laptop

Graphics and media engines. Editing apps lean on the GPU for effects, colour grading and exports. On Windows, an Nvidia RTX GPU is the safest choice for Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve. On a Mac, the M5 Pro and M5 Max add dedicated ProRes and video engines.
Memory. 16GB is the minimum for 1080p and light 4K work. 32GB is the sweet spot for 4K, and 64GB or more helps with 8K, heavy effects or long multicam projects.
The screen. Look for an OLED or mini-LED panel with wide DCI-P3 colour coverage if you grade colour. A 16-inch screen gives the timeline more room.
Storage and ports. Video eats storage, so 1TB is a sensible minimum. A full-size SD card slot, Thunderbolt or USB4 for fast external drives, and HDMI for a second display all save time.
Windows or Mac. Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve run on both. Final Cut Pro is Mac-only. Windows laptops give you more choice and upgradeable parts on some models; MacBooks win on battery life and quietness.

Also worth a look

Dell XPS 16 (2026): a beautifully made 16-inch laptop, but this generation has no discrete GPU option, only Intel integrated graphics (Tom’s Hardware). Fine for light editing; not for heavy 4K work.
MacBook Air 15 (M5): good for light editing and short 4K projects, but it has no fan, so long exports slow down. See our MacBook video editing guide.
A gaming laptop with an RTX 5070 or above: if you also game, a higher-end gaming laptop gives you more GPU for the money than most creator laptops. See our smallest gaming laptops for compact options.

Our verdict

For Windows editors, the ASUS ProArt P16 is the best all-round video editing laptop, and the Lenovo Yoga Pro 9i gives you a superb OLED for less. The ProArt PX13 GoPro Edition is the pick if you need workstation-level memory in a small laptop. If you can switch platforms, the MacBook Pro 14 with M5 Pro is the strongest all-rounder, and on a budget an RTX 5060 gaming laptop such as the Lenovo LOQ 15 does the job for under $1,200. Choosing a Mac chip? The M5 Pro suits most projects; the M5 Max only pays off for 8K, multicam and heavy grading.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best laptop for video editing in 2026?

On Windows, the ASUS ProArt P16, with a 16-inch OLED screen, RTX 50-series graphics and a DialPad for editing apps. On a Mac, the 14-inch MacBook Pro with M5 Pro, which has a hardware ProRes engine and long battery life. Tom’s Guide ranks the MacBook Pro best overall and the ASUS ProArt PX13 GoPro Edition as the best Windows option.

Is a gaming laptop good for video editing?

Yes, for the money. An Nvidia RTX GPU speeds up effects and exports in Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve, so an RTX 5060 gaming laptop like the Lenovo LOQ 15 handles 4K timelines well. The trade-offs are a less colour-accurate screen and louder fans than a creator laptop.

How much RAM do I need for video editing?

16GB for 1080p and light 4K editing, 32GB for comfortable 4K work, and 64GB or more for 8K, heavy effects or long multicam projects.

Is Mac or Windows better for video editing?

Both work well. Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve run on both; Final Cut Pro is Mac-only. MacBooks have better battery life and hardware ProRes engines, while Windows laptops offer more choice, Nvidia GPUs and, on some models, upgradeable memory and storage.

What is the best cheap laptop for video editing?

An RTX 5060 gaming laptop such as the Lenovo LOQ 15 Gen 10, usually under $1,200. Add an external monitor for colour-critical work. On a Mac, the MacBook Air with M5 handles light editing, but it slows down in long exports because it has no fan.

Is the M5 Pro or M5 Max better for video editing?

The M5 Pro is the better value for most editors. The M5 Max adds a second ProRes engine, more GPU cores, more memory bandwidth and up to 128GB of memory, which helps with 8K, multicam and heavy colour grading, but it costs $1,600 more to start.

Is the MacBook Air good for video editing?

For light editing, yes. The M5 MacBook Air has hardware ProRes support and 16GB of memory as standard, which handles short-form and simple 4K projects. It has no fan, though, so long exports slow down, and it lacks an XDR display, HDMI and an SD card slot. Skip the cheaper MacBook Neo for editing: its 8GB of memory can’t be upgraded.

Best Headphones for Nintendo Switch 2 (2026): Headsets and Earbuds That Work with GameChat

Our picks at a glance

Pick	Best for	Buy
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5	Best overall	Check price
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1	Best budget headset	Check price
HyperX Cloud III	Best wired headset	Check price
Sony INZONE Buds	Best earbuds for Switch 2	Check price
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Omni	Best premium, multi-console	Check price

How we put this together: this guide is based on Nintendo’s official support pages for Switch 2 audio, manufacturers’ specifications and published reviews (linked below). It is not based on hands-on testing by iTech Level. Prices are list prices at the time of writing and change often. See how we choose products.

How headphones work on the Switch 2

The Switch 2 gives you three ways to connect headphones, and they don’t all do the same things:

Connection	Game audio	Mic for GameChat	Catches
USB (including USB-C dongles)	Yes, low latency with a 2.4GHz dongle	Yes	Uses the console’s top USB-C port or a dock USB port
3.5 mm wired	Yes, no lag	Yes, with a 4-pole headset plug	Jack on the console and the Switch 2 Pro Controller, not the Joy-Con 2
Bluetooth	Yes, with some delay	No	One device at a time, max two wireless controllers, disconnects during local wireless play

Nintendo’s support pages spell out the Bluetooth limits: “Microphone input via Bluetooth is not supported on Nintendo Switch 2”, so with Bluetooth headphones you can hear other players in GameChat but they can’t hear you through the headset (Nintendo). While a Bluetooth audio device is connected, you can only use two wireless controllers, and a pair of Joy-Con 2 counts as two (Nintendo). Bluetooth audio also disconnects when you start local wireless multiplayer, and Nintendo warns you may notice audio latency (Nintendo). USB headsets and 4-pole wired headsets have none of those limits, and their mics work in GameChat.

The best headphones for Nintendo Switch 2

1. SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5: best overall

The Arctis Nova 5 is the easiest way to get wireless audio and working voice chat on a Switch 2. Its small USB-C dongle plugs into the console’s top USB-C port, so it works in handheld mode and when docked, and it also works with PC, PlayStation, phones and handhelds. Bluetooth is built in as well, for your phone. It weighs 265 g, the mic retracts fully into the earcup, and SteelSeries rates the battery at up to 60 hours. It’s the “best for consoles” pick in our best gaming headsets guide.

Good to know: use the dongle, not Bluetooth, on the Switch 2, or the mic won’t work in GameChat. Xbox players need the Nova 5X version. It’s often discounted below its list price.

Check the Arctis Nova 5 on Amazon →

2. SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1: best budget headset

A wired headset is the cheapest way to get everything working on the Switch 2: no lag, no battery, and a mic that works in GameChat. The Arctis Nova 1 uses a single 3.5 mm combo plug, weighs just 235 g and has a ClearCast Gen 2 noise-cancelling mic. Tom’s Hardware found it slimmer, lighter and much more comfortable than the Arctis 1 it replaced.

Good to know: plug it into the top of the console in handheld mode, or into the Switch 2 Pro Controller’s headphone jack when docked. The Joy-Con 2 don’t have a headphone jack, so docked players without a Pro Controller should go wireless with a USB dongle instead.

Check the Arctis Nova 1 on Amazon →

3. HyperX Cloud III: best wired headset

If you want a more premium wired headset, the Cloud III has large 53 mm drivers angled toward your ears, a detachable boom mic with an LED mute indicator, and a 3.5 mm plug for the console and Pro Controller. Nintendo Life recommends it for Switch 2 as a comfortable, great-sounding wired option, and Tom’s Hardware found it lighter, with better audio and a better mic, than the Cloud II.

Good to know: the DTS spatial audio and some extras need a PC; on the Switch 2 it works as a plain, very good stereo headset.

Check the HyperX Cloud III on Amazon →

4. Sony INZONE Buds: best earbuds for Switch 2

Earbuds are the most portable option for handheld play, and the INZONE Buds avoid Bluetooth’s problems by using a small USB-C dongle, with latency Sony rates at under 30 ms. They add active noise cancelling and Bluetooth LE Audio for your phone, and Sony’s specs list up to 12 hours of play on the dongle (11 with noise cancelling on), at about 6.5 g per bud. See our Sony gaming headphones guide for more.

Good to know: the dongle takes the console’s top USB-C port, and an earbud mic can’t match a boom mic for voice clarity. Regular Bluetooth earbuds like AirPods also work for game sound, but without the mic and with more delay.

Check the INZONE Buds on Amazon →

5. SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Omni: best premium, multi-console

If the Switch 2 is one of several systems you play on, the Nova Pro Omni (May 2026) connects to all of them. Its GameHub base station has two USB inputs plus Bluetooth and line-in and can mix several sources at once, so you can hear a Switch 2 and a PC or another console through one headset. It adds active noise cancelling, Hi-Res certified drivers, a retractable mic and two hot-swappable batteries.

Good to know: it’s expensive, so it’s only worth it if you really do switch between systems. It’s covered in full in our best gaming headsets guide.

Check the Arctis Nova Pro Omni on Amazon →

Can you use AirPods or Bluetooth headphones with the Switch 2?

Yes, for game audio. Go to System Settings, then Bluetooth Audio, then Add Device, and put your headphones in pairing mode. They’re fine for single-player games where a little delay doesn’t matter. The trade-offs are the ones in the table above: no mic in GameChat, only two wireless controllers while connected, audio that drops when you start local wireless multiplayer, and some delay that shows in rhythm and fast action games. Our Bluetooth headphones for gaming guide explains the latency in detail.

If you already own good Bluetooth headphones, a workaround for GameChat is to use the Switch 2’s built-in microphone for your voice while listening through Bluetooth.

Setting up a headset: handheld vs docked

Handheld: plug a USB-C dongle into the top USB-C port, or a wired headset into the headphone jack on top of the console.
Docked: the top USB-C port is still free, so a USB-C dongle works there. A wired headset needs the Switch 2 Pro Controller’s headphone jack, since the Joy-Con 2 don’t have one. Nintendo also supports USB headsets in the dock’s USB ports.
Check the mic: System Settings has a Test Microphone option, and in GameChat your icon shows a green border when you speak.

Specs from the makers, side by side

Model	Battery	Weight	Latency (maker)	Connection	Maker doesn’t state
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 Wireless	60 h	265 g	Not stated	2.4 GHz dongle + Bluetooth; Bluetooth 5.3	latency, quick charge, Xbox
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1	Not stated	253 (an image on the same page says 236)	Not stated	wired 3.5 mm	—
Sony INZONE Buds (WF-G700N)	ANC on: 11 (dongle) / 18 (LE Audio) ANC off: 12 (dongle) / 24 (LE Audio) with case: 24 (dongle, NC off) / 48 (LE Audio, NC off)	6.5 g	less than 30 ms (USB-C dongle)	2.4 GHz USB-C dongle + Bluetooth LE Audio only (no classic Bluetooth); Bluetooth 5.3 (LE Audio only)	multipoint, case weight
HyperX Cloud III (wired)	Not stated	308 (320 with mic)	Not stated	wired 3.5 mm + USB (USB-C/USB-A)	—
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Omni	ANC on: 19 per battery (2.4 GHz + BT) ANC off: 30 per battery (2.4 GHz) / 50 (Bluetooth); 2 hot-swap batteries	339 (GameHub 169)	Not stated	2.4 GHz + Bluetooth (simultaneous, mixes 4 sources); Bluetooth 5.3	latency

Our verdict

For the Switch 2, choose a headset that connects by USB or a wired plug, not just Bluetooth. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 is the best all-round pick, with a USB-C dongle that gives you wireless audio and a working GameChat mic in handheld and docked mode. On a budget, the wired Arctis Nova 1 does everything for little money, and the HyperX Cloud III is the wired upgrade. For earbuds, the Sony INZONE Buds skip Bluetooth with their own dongle, and the Arctis Nova Pro Omni is the premium choice if you play on several consoles.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best headset for the Nintendo Switch 2?

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 for most people. Its USB-C dongle plugs into the console for low-latency wireless audio, and because it connects over USB, its mic works in GameChat, which Bluetooth headsets can’t do on Switch 2. On a budget, a wired headset like the Arctis Nova 1 works in the console or the Pro Controller.

Does the Switch 2 support Bluetooth headphones?

Yes, for audio. You can pair one Bluetooth audio device at a time in System Settings. But Bluetooth microphones aren’t supported, you can only use two wireless controllers while it’s connected, and Bluetooth audio disconnects during local wireless multiplayer.

Can you use AirPods with the Switch 2?

Yes, for game sound. Pair them under System Settings, then Bluetooth Audio. The AirPods’ mic won’t work in GameChat, though, so other players won’t hear you through them; the console’s built-in mic can pick up your voice instead. Expect some delay in fast games.

Why doesn’t my headset mic work in GameChat?

Most often because it’s connected by Bluetooth, which the Switch 2 doesn’t support for microphones. Use a USB headset or dongle, or a wired headset with a 4-pole 3.5 mm plug in the console or Pro Controller. Nintendo also suggests unplugging and reconnecting the headset and using the Test Microphone option in System Settings.

Do the Joy-Con 2 have a headphone jack?

No. In docked mode, plug wired headphones into the Switch 2 Pro Controller, which has a headphone jack, or use a wireless headset with a USB-C dongle in the console’s top port.

Best Earbuds for Small Ears (2026): 6 Picks by Size and Ear-Tip Fit

Leave a Comment / Audio, Wireless Earbuds

Three pairs of wireless earbuds in open charging cases on a desk

The best earbuds for small ears are the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2: each bud weighs 4.7 g, they come with four ear-tip sizes from XS to L, and a twist-to-adjust stabilizer holds them in place. iPhone owners should get the AirPods Pro 3, which include an XXS ear tip. On a budget, the Sony WF-C510 are Sony’s smallest closed earbuds at 4.6 g, and the Soundcore Space A40 add strong noise cancelling for under $100.

Check the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 on Amazon →

How we put this together: this guide is based on manufacturers’ official specifications (earbud weight and ear-tip sizes) plus published reviews from independent outlets (linked in each pick). It is not based on hands-on testing by iTech Level, and ears differ, so fit can vary from person to person. Prices are list prices at the time of writing and change often. See how we choose products.

Best earbuds for small ears compared

Earbuds	Best for	Weight per bud	Smallest ear tip	Noise cancelling
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2	Best overall	4.7 g	XS (4 sizes) + stabilizer	Yes	Check Price
Apple AirPods Pro 3	Best for iPhone	5.55 g	XXS (5 sizes)	Yes	Check Price
Sony WF-C510	Best cheap small earbuds	4.6 g	Small	No	Check Price
Soundcore Space A40	Best budget noise cancelling	Compact	Small	Yes (adaptive)	Check Price
Google Pixel Buds 2a	Small with ANC for less	Very small	Small	Yes	Check Price
JLab JBuds Mini	Smallest and cheapest	Tiny	Small	On the ANC version	Check Price

Weights are the makers’ or reviewers’ published figures where available. Not every brand publishes its earbud weight, so for those we describe the size as reviewers do.

The best earbuds for small ears in 2026

1. Google Pixel Buds Pro 2: best overall for small ears

Google made the Pixel Buds Pro 2 27 percent smaller than the first generation, and each bud weighs just 4.7 g (TechRadar). They come with four ear-tip sizes, from extra-small to large, and a small “twist-to-adjust” stabilizer: twist the bud one way for a looser fit, the other for a snug one when you’re moving. Reviewers consistently single out the comfort and stability, which is what matters most for small ears.

They also have strong noise cancelling, up to 8 hours per charge with it on (30 hours with the case) and an IP54 rating. Good to know: they work with any phone, but most smart features need an Android phone, and they do the most on a Pixel; see our best earbuds for Google Pixel guide. They’re often discounted well below $229.

Check the Pixel Buds Pro 2 on Amazon →

2. Apple AirPods Pro 3: best for iPhone

The AirPods Pro 3 are the only earbuds here with an XXS ear tip: Apple includes five sizes, XXS, XS, S, M and L (Apple specs). That extra-small option makes them a much better fit for small ears than earlier AirPods Pro. iOS also has an Ear Tip Fit Test for AirPods Pro, which checks the seal in each ear and suggests a different size if needed.

You also get Apple’s strongest noise cancelling, up to 8 hours per charge with it on, IP57 water resistance and heart-rate sensing for workouts. Good to know: at 5.55 g per bud (Apple) they’re heavier than the Pixel Buds Pro 2 and Sony WF-C510, so if even the XXS tips feel too big, try the Pixel Buds Pro 2 or Sony WF-C510. Most features need an iPhone; see our best earbuds for iPhone guide.

Check the AirPods Pro 3 on Amazon →

3. Sony WF-C510: best cheap earbuds for small ears

Sony calls the WF-C510 its smallest closed-type earbuds ever, and at 4.6 g per bud they’re even lighter than the Pixel Buds Pro 2. What Hi-Fi? praises their compact, comfortable design and solid, musical sound, and they support multipoint, last up to 11 hours per charge (22 with the case) and are rated IPX4.

Good to know: there’s no active noise cancelling, only an ambient sound mode that What Hi-Fi? rates as “only okay”, and the build feels cheap. For small ears on a small budget, they’re still the easiest recommendation.

Check the Sony WF-C510 on Amazon →

4. Soundcore Space A40: best noise cancelling under $100

SoundGuys picks the Space A40 as the best noise-cancelling earbuds for small ears, scoring the noise cancelling 8.5 out of 10 and measuring about 10 hours per charge. They also support multipoint and Sony’s LDAC codec on Android phones. They often sell well below list price.

Good to know: they launched in 2022, so they lack some newer features, and LDAC only helps on Android (iPhones use AAC). For more cheap options, see our best earbuds under $50 for Android.

Check the Soundcore Space A40 on Amazon →

Check the Space A40 at Soundcore.com (from $59.99) →

Soundcore.com code AFSC20: an extra 20% off full-price items (valid through Dec 31, 2026).

5. Google Pixel Buds 2a: small, with noise cancelling, for less

The Pixel Buds 2a are Google’s cheaper earbuds, and they’re small too: Engadget highlights their very small, comfortable fit. They’re the first A-series Pixel Buds with noise cancelling, use the same Tensor A1 chip as the Pro 2, and last up to 7 hours with noise cancelling on (10 with it off).

Good to know: there’s no wireless charging and no volume control on the buds, and like the Pro 2 they do the most with an Android phone.

Check the Pixel Buds 2a on Amazon →

6. JLab JBuds Mini: smallest and cheapest

SoundGuys names the JBuds Mini the smallest earbuds on its list: they’re tiny, very easy to carry and rated IP55. JLab now also sells the JBuds Mini ANC, which it calls the smallest true wireless earbuds with active noise cancelling, with 25+ hours of total playtime (JLab).

Good to know: at this price, sound and call quality are basic compared with the Sony and Soundcore picks. They’re best as a cheap pair for kids, teens or the gym.

Check the JLab JBuds Mini on Amazon →

How to get earbuds to fit small ears

Try the smallest tips first, and test each ear separately. Most people’s ears are slightly different sizes, so you may need a different tip in each ear. If the bud pushes out or sits loose, go down a size.
Use the seal test if your earbuds have one. The Ear Tip Fit Test in iOS (AirPods Pro) and the ear-tip seal check in the Pixel Buds app both tell you when a tip isn’t sealing.
Consider foam tips. Memory-foam replacement tips squash down and expand to fill the ear canal, which helps when silicone tips are either too big or too loose. Check that the brand makes them for your model.
Lighter is usually more comfortable. Buds under about 5 g, like the Sony WF-C510 and Pixel Buds Pro 2, put less pressure on the outer ear over long sessions.
Look for a stabilizer or wing. A small fin, like the Pixel Buds Pro 2’s twist-to-adjust stabilizer, holds the bud in place without needing a bigger tip.

Also worth a look

Shokz OpenRun Pro 2: bone-conduction headphones that sit in front of the ears, so nothing goes in the ear at all. A good option if no earbud is comfortable, and SoundGuys’ pick for small ears in this style. Rated IP55, with up to 12 hours of battery. For clip-on alternatives, see our best open-ear earbuds.
Apple AirPods 5: an open fit with no ear tips. Some people with small ears find them comfortable because nothing seals the ear; others find they slip. See our iPhone earbuds guide.
Beats Flex: a neckband style with light earbuds, so a loose fit doesn’t mean losing a bud. SoundGuys’ neckband pick for small ears.

Specs from the makers, side by side

Model	Battery	Weight	Water rating	Connection	Maker doesn’t state
Sony WF-C510	11 (8 with ambient sound on)	4.6 g	IPX4	Bluetooth 5.3	latency, total with case
Google Pixel Buds 2a	ANC on: 7 h ANC off: 10 h with case: 20 (ANC on) / 27 (ANC off)	4.7 g	IP54 (earbuds), IPX4 (case)	Bluetooth 5.4	codecs, multipoint, latency
JLab JBuds Mini	5.5 h with case: 20 h	3.3 (launch post; spec table lists 6.6 g for both)	IP55	Bluetooth 5.3	latency

Our verdict

For small ears, the Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 are the best all-round earbuds: light at 4.7 g, four tip sizes and a stabilizer that keeps them in place. iPhone owners should get the AirPods Pro 3 for their XXS tip. On a budget, the Sony WF-C510 are tiny and comfortable for about $60, the Soundcore Space A40 add strong noise cancelling under $100, and the JLab JBuds Mini are the smallest and cheapest of all.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best earbuds for small ears?

The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 for most people. Each bud weighs 4.7 g, they come with four ear-tip sizes from XS to L, and a twist-to-adjust stabilizer keeps them in place. iPhone owners should get the AirPods Pro 3, which include an XXS ear tip.

What are the smallest wireless earbuds?

Among popular models, the JLab JBuds Mini are among the smallest you can buy, and JLab calls the JBuds Mini ANC the smallest true wireless earbuds with noise cancelling. The Sony WF-C510 (4.6 g per bud) are Sony’s smallest closed earbuds, and the Pixel Buds Pro 2 (4.7 g) are the smallest premium pick.

Do AirPods fit small ears?

The AirPods Pro 3 usually do, because Apple includes five ear-tip sizes including XXS, and iOS can check the fit for you. The regular AirPods 5 are one size with no tips, so they fit some small ears well and slip out of others.

Why do earbuds hurt my ears?

Usually because the ear tip is too big or the bud is too heavy for your ear. Try the smallest tips, test each ear separately, and consider foam tips. If in-ear designs still hurt, open-ear or bone-conduction headphones like the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 don’t go into the ear canal at all.

What are the best cheap earbuds for small ears?

The Sony WF-C510, at about $60. They’re Sony’s smallest closed earbuds at 4.6 g per bud, with multipoint and up to 11 hours per charge. If you want noise cancelling, the Soundcore Space A40 often sell for $49–$79, and the JLab JBuds Mini are the cheapest at $39.99.

Cheapest Gaming Laptops (2026): The Best Under $800, and What to Avoid

Leave a Comment / Gaming Laptops, Laptops

Gaming laptop with a backlit keyboard in a blue-lit room (illustrative photo)

The cheapest gaming laptops worth buying in 2026 are RTX 5050 models such as the Lenovo LOQ 15, Acer Nitro V 15 and HP Victus 15. Their list prices are usually around $1,000 or more, but they regularly drop below $800 in sales. Older RTX 4050 laptops are no longer the cheap fallback: in October 2026 they cost about the same as RTX 5050 models, so only buy one on clearance. Below about $600, you’re into RTX 3050 and RTX 2050 laptops that we’d only recommend for esports and older games.

Check the Lenovo LOQ 15 (RTX 5050) on Amazon →

Our picks at a glance

Pick	Best for	Buy
Lenovo LOQ 15 (RTX 5050)	Best cheap gaming laptop overall	Check price
Acer Nitro V 15 (RTX 5050)	Best screen for the money	Check price
HP Victus 15 (RTX 5050)	Easiest to upgrade later	Check price
HP Victus (RTX 4050)	Only on clearance	Check price

Next sale: Black Friday

How we put this together: this guide is based on manufacturers’ official specifications plus published reviews, benchmarks and deal reports from independent outlets (linked in each pick). It is not based on hands-on testing by iTech Level. Prices change constantly, especially at the cheap end, so treat the prices here as examples and check the exact listing. See how we choose products.

Why cheap gaming laptops got more expensive

Rising component costs have pushed laptop prices up. Tom’s Hardware says the market below $1,000 “has effectively been decimated” and that most gaming laptops under $1,500 now use an RTX 5050 or RTX 5060. In practice, that means two things for a tight budget: the cheapest current-generation gaming laptops are RTX 5050 models, and the best prices on them come from sales rather than list prices.

What your money gets you

Budget	Graphics you’ll find	What it plays	Our take
Around $1,000–$1,200	RTX 5060	New games at 1080p, high settings	The sweet spot if you can stretch. See our gaming laptops under $1,200.
Under $800 (on sale)	RTX 5050	New games at 1080p, medium settings; esports at high frame rates	The cheapest current-generation option. Wait for a sale.
Cheapest older stock	RTX 4050	1080p at medium-to-low settings in new games	OK if it’s clearly cheaper than an RTX 5050 laptop on sale.
Under about $600	RTX 3050, RTX 2050, integrated	Esports and older games	Avoid for new releases; 4GB of video memory is the main limit.

The cheapest gaming laptops worth buying

1. Lenovo LOQ 15 (RTX 5050): best cheap gaming laptop overall

The RTX 5050 version of the LOQ 15 is the cheapest way into the laptop family we rate highest under $1,200. It usually pairs the RTX 5050 with an Intel Core i5-13450HX, a 15.6-inch 1080p 144Hz screen, 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD. The HX processor is a step up from the H-series chips in most cheap gaming laptops. It’s often discounted on Lenovo’s site, and Tom’s Guide says it’s good for playing the latest games at medium settings.

Good to know: many listings are third-party bundles with “upgraded” RAM or storage at a markup, so compare them with the standard 16GB / 512GB configuration. At full price, the LOQ 15 with an RTX 5050 and an i7 costs over $1,000; our under-$1,200 guide covers it and the 115 W RTX 5060 version to watch for a sale.

See LOQ 15 RTX 5050 listings on Amazon →

2. Acer Nitro V 15 (RTX 5050): best screen for the money

The Nitro V 15 is the 15.6-inch member of Acer’s Nitro V family. In the US, Acer’s RTX 5050 version (ANV15-52-778V) comes with an Intel Core i7-13620H, a 1080p 165Hz screen, 16GB of RAM (up to 32GB) and a 512GB SSD (Acer); some other regions sell it with an i5-13420H instead. The 165Hz panel is the fastest of the picks here, which helps in esports games where the RTX 5050 can push high frame rates. Like the LOQ 15, it’s often discounted, so wait for a sale price.

Good to know: Acer runs the RTX 5050 at up to 75 W in this model, below some rivals (see our GPU power database), and Acer sells several Nitro V 15 versions with different processors and graphics, including older RTX 2050 and RTX 3050 models. Check that the listing says RTX 5050.

See Nitro V 15 RTX 5050 listings on Amazon →

3. HP Victus 15 (RTX 5050): easiest to upgrade later

The Victus 15 is a sensible budget pick if you plan to add memory or storage later: Notebookcheck found two RAM slots and two SSD slots, consistent performance and fairly moderate fan noise under load. It has a 15.6-inch 1080p 144Hz screen.

Good to know: HP limits the RTX 5050 to 80 watts in this model, while some rivals run it at up to 115 watts, so it’s a little slower in games. Notebookcheck also notes an older processor, a screen with limited color, and no card reader. Only buy it when it’s priced below the LOQ 15 and Nitro V 15.

See Victus 15 RTX 5050 listings on Amazon →

4. HP Victus (RTX 4050): only on clearance

An RTX 4050 laptop used to be the cheapest way to play new games at 1080p when no RTX 5050 model was on sale. That has changed: in October 2026, new RTX 4050 laptops, such as the HP Victus 15 with a Ryzen 7 7445HS, 16GB of memory and a 15.6-inch 144Hz screen, cost about as much as RTX 5050 models, and the cheapest had only 8GB of memory. That’s close to the price of an RTX 5050 Lenovo LOQ 15. In Notebookcheck’s testing, the RTX 4050 is about 15 percent behind the RTX 5050 in 3DMark, and it has 6GB of video memory rather than 8GB.

Good to know: it’s a generation older, so it misses DLSS 4 Multi Frame Generation. Only buy one on clearance, clearly below the cheapest RTX 5050 laptop you can find.

See HP Victus RTX 4050 listings on Amazon →

Best gaming laptops under $800

Under $800 is the price where a current RTX 5050 gaming laptop becomes possible, but usually only on sale: their list prices are around $1,000 or more. The best example is the Lenovo LOQ 15 with an RTX 5050, which Tom’s Guide spotted under $800 on Lenovo’s site. At Black Friday 2025, the closest deals landed just above the line: HotHardware listed the RTX 5060 LOQ 15 among them. Memory prices have risen sharply since then, about 400% by June 2026 according to Tom’s Hardware, so this year’s sale prices may not drop as far.

What to buy for $800 or less:

Lenovo LOQ 15 (RTX 5050) whenever it’s at or under $800. It’s our top pick above, with the faster HX processor.
Acer Nitro V 15 (RTX 5050) if it’s cheaper, for its 165Hz screen; check that the listing really says RTX 5050.
An RTX 4050 laptop such as the HP Victus only on clearance below the RTX 5050 models: a generation older, with 6GB of video memory instead of 8GB.

Checklist for an under-$800 gaming laptop: an RTX 5050 with 8GB of video memory (skip RTX 3050 and RTX 2050 models with 4GB), 16GB of memory, a 144Hz or faster screen, and a graphics chip that isn’t heavily power-limited; our GPU power database lists the wattage for each model. Avoid third-party listings with “upgraded” memory or storage at a markup, and compare against the maker’s standard 16GB / 512GB configuration.

See RTX 5050 gaming laptops on Amazon →

Is an RTX 5050 laptop good enough?

For most people on a budget, yes. Tom’s Hardware says the RTX 5050 “can provide reasonably smooth performance at 1080p” but isn’t one to buy for ray tracing. It has 8GB of GDDR7 video memory and supports DLSS 4 Multi Frame Generation, the same features as the RTX 5060. The RTX 5060 is about 21–22 percent faster in 3DMark at the same power level (Notebookcheck), so expect medium rather than high settings in new games.

For esports games like Valorant, Counter-Strike 2, League of Legends and Fortnite, an RTX 5050 laptop is plenty. There, a fast 144Hz or 165Hz screen matters more than the graphics chip.

Marvel Rivals is heavier: NetEase recommends a desktop RTX 2060-class card, so check our best laptops for Marvel Rivals before you settle on an RTX 5050.

RTX 5050 laptops: 45 W to 115 W

How fast an RTX 5050 laptop is depends a lot on how much power the maker gives the chip. Our laptop GPU power database lists 44 RTX 5050 configurations, from 45 W to 115 W:

Max GPU power	Configurations	Examples
115 W (full power)	16 of 44	Lenovo LOQ 15 Gen 11 (AMD), LOQ 17 Gen 10, Legion 5 and Legion Pro 5, MSI Katana 15 HX, ASUS ROG Strix G16/G18 and TUF A16/F16, Acer Nitro 16 AI
95–110 W	10	ASUS TUF A14 (110 W), Lenovo LOQ 15 Gen 10 and ASUS Zephyrus G14/G16 (100 W), Acer Nitro V 16 (2025) and Nitro V 17 AI (95 W)
85 W	11	Acer Nitro V 16 AI (2026) and Nitro V 16S, Gigabyte Gaming A16 and AERO X16
45–75 W	7	Acer Nitro V 15 (75 W), MSI Cyborg 15 C13WX (70 W), Acer Nitro V 14 AI (60 W), MSI Cyborg 15 and 17 B2RW (45 W)

Our picks sit in the middle: the Core i5-13450HX LOQ 15 (Gen 10) runs its RTX 5050 at 100 W, the Victus 15 at 80 W and the Nitro V 15 at 75 W. That’s a fair trade at their prices, and it’s why the Nitro V 15 is our screen pick rather than our performance pick. The full-power 115 W models mostly cost more, so if you see one, such as the LOQ 15 Gen 11, at a cheap-laptop price, it’s the better buy. Avoid the MSI Cyborg 15 and Cyborg 17 B2RW, which run the RTX 5050 at just 45 W, well under half of full power.

Can you get a good gaming laptop for under $600?

New, not really. Below about $600 you’ll mostly find laptops with an RTX 3050 or RTX 2050, often with only 4GB of video memory, or with no dedicated graphics at all. They play esports and older games, but new releases will struggle or need the lowest settings, and they’ll age quickly. If that’s your budget, you’re usually better off saving for an RTX 5050 laptop on sale, or looking at a refurbished RTX 4050 or RTX 4060 laptop from a reputable seller with a warranty.

GTA 5 is the exception: the original GTA V Legacy runs on almost anything, while the Enhanced version wants an RTX 3060-class card (see our best laptops for GTA 5).

Cheap gaming laptop traps to avoid

The wrong graphics chip under the right name. Nitro V, LOQ and Victus each come with several GPUs. A “Nitro V 15” deal may be an RTX 2050 or 3050 model. Check the listing for the exact RTX number.
8GB of RAM. 16GB is the practical minimum for a gaming laptop today. An 8GB model is only a deal if you add memory straight away, and only if it has a free RAM slot.
Bundles with “upgraded” parts. Third-party sellers often add RAM and storage at a markup and still call it a discount. Compare against the standard configuration.
Low graphics power. The same GPU can run at very different wattages. A lower limit, like the Victus 15’s 80 W, means fewer frames than the same chip at 115 W. Check a model in our laptop GPU power database.
Inflated “was” prices. A big percentage off a made-up list price isn’t a deal. Compare with the price history and with the other picks here.

Because the best prices on cheap gaming laptops come from sales, it’s worth timing your purchase. See our gaming laptop deals guide for what to watch and how to spot a real discount.

Our verdict

The cheapest gaming laptop worth buying in 2026 is an RTX 5050 model on sale: the Lenovo LOQ 15 for the best all-round package, the Acer Nitro V 15 for its 165Hz screen, or the HP Victus 15 if you want room to upgrade. If none is on sale, wait: RTX 4050 laptops now cost about the same as RTX 5050 ones, so they’re only worth it on clearance. If you can stretch to around $1,000–$1,200, an RTX 5060 laptop from our under-$1,200 guide will last noticeably longer.

Frequently asked questions

What is the cheapest gaming laptop worth buying?

An RTX 5050 laptop on sale, such as the Lenovo LOQ 15, Acer Nitro V 15 or HP Victus 15. Their list prices are usually around $1,000 or more, but they often drop below $800 in sales; Tom’s Guide saw the LOQ 15 with an RTX 5050 under $800. If none is on sale, wait for one: older RTX 4050 laptops now cost about as much as RTX 5050 models, so they’re only worth it on clearance.

Can you get a gaming laptop for under $500?

Not a new one that handles current games well. Under $500 you’ll find laptops with an RTX 2050, RTX 3050 or integrated graphics, which are fine for esports and older games but struggle with new releases. A refurbished RTX 4050 or RTX 4060 laptop with a warranty is usually a better use of a small budget. If you don’t need a gaming GPU, see our best Lenovo laptops under $500 for school and everyday work.

Is an RTX 5050 laptop good for gaming?

Yes, at 1080p. Tom’s Hardware says the RTX 5050 provides reasonably smooth performance at 1080p, though it isn’t one for ray tracing. It has 8GB of video memory and supports DLSS 4 Multi Frame Generation. The RTX 5060 is about 21–22 percent faster, so expect medium rather than high settings in new games.

What wattage should an RTX 5050 laptop have?

115 W (including Dynamic Boost) is full power, and 16 of the 44 RTX 5050 configurations in our GPU power database run at it. Most cheap models run it at 75 to 100 W; avoid 45 W models such as the MSI Cyborg 15 and 17 B2RW.

Is an RTX 3050 laptop still worth buying in 2026?

Only for esports and older games, and only at a very low price. Many RTX 3050 laptops have just 4GB of video memory, which limits them in new games. An RTX 4050 or RTX 5050 laptop will stay usable for much longer.

What is the best gaming laptop under $800?

An RTX 5050 laptop on sale, such as the Lenovo LOQ 15, which Tom’s Guide saw under $800. List prices are around $1,000, so wait for a sale; an RTX 4050 laptop is only a fallback on clearance below that, since new ones now cost about as much as RTX 5050 models.

When is the best time to buy a cheap gaming laptop?

During big sales such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Amazon’s Prime Day events, and back-to-school season. Cheap gaming laptops see some of their biggest cuts then, which is often the only time RTX 5050 models drop below $800.

Adam Levell

Best Noise-Cancelling Earbuds (2026): 7 Picks Ranked by Measured ANC

Best noise-cancelling earbuds compared

The best noise-cancelling earbuds in 2026

1. Apple AirPods Pro 3: best overall

2. Sony WF-1000XM6: best for Android

3. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen): most comfortable

4. Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 5: best sound, longest-lasting

5. Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro: best for Samsung

6. Sony WF-C710N: best under $150

7. CMF Buds 2 Plus: the cheapest that are still good

Will they last your flight on one charge?

Watch: AirPods Pro 3 vs Sony WF-1000XM6

How to get the most from noise-cancelling earbuds

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Frequently asked questions

Which earbuds have the best noise cancelling?

AirPods Pro 3 or Sony WF-1000XM6 for noise cancelling?

What are the best cheap noise-cancelling earbuds?

Are noise-cancelling earbuds as good as over-ear headphones?

Why doesn’t noise cancelling work well in my earbuds?

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Best Laptops for Video Editing (2026): Windows Picks and Which MacBook to Buy

Best laptops for video editing compared

The best laptops for video editing in 2026

1. ASUS ProArt P16 (2025): best Windows laptop for video editing

2. Lenovo Yoga Pro 9i Aura Edition: best screen for the money

3. ASUS ProArt PX13 GoPro Edition: most power in a small laptop

4. MacBook Pro 14 (M5 Pro): best for Mac users

5. Lenovo LOQ 15 Gen 10 (RTX 5060): best on a budget

Which MacBook for video editing: M5, M5 Pro or M5 Max?

MacBook Pro 14 with M5: best value

MacBook Pro with M5 Max: best for 8K, multicam and colour grading

MacBook Pro 16 with M5 Pro: best for a bigger screen

MacBook Air 15 with M5: best for light editing on a budget

What matters in a video editing laptop

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Frequently asked questions

What is the best laptop for video editing in 2026?

Is a gaming laptop good for video editing?

How much RAM do I need for video editing?

Is Mac or Windows better for video editing?

What is the best cheap laptop for video editing?

Is the M5 Pro or M5 Max better for video editing?

Is the MacBook Air good for video editing?

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Best Headphones for Nintendo Switch 2 (2026): Headsets and Earbuds That Work with GameChat

Our picks at a glance

How headphones work on the Switch 2

The best headphones for Nintendo Switch 2

1. SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5: best overall

2. SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1: best budget headset

3. HyperX Cloud III: best wired headset

4. Sony INZONE Buds: best earbuds for Switch 2

5. SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Omni: best premium, multi-console

Can you use AirPods or Bluetooth headphones with the Switch 2?

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What is the best headset for the Nintendo Switch 2?

Does the Switch 2 support Bluetooth headphones?

Can you use AirPods with the Switch 2?

Why doesn’t my headset mic work in GameChat?

Do the Joy-Con 2 have a headphone jack?

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Best Earbuds for Small Ears (2026): 6 Picks by Size and Ear-Tip Fit

Best earbuds for small ears compared

The best earbuds for small ears in 2026

1. Google Pixel Buds Pro 2: best overall for small ears

2. Apple AirPods Pro 3: best for iPhone

3. Sony WF-C510: best cheap earbuds for small ears

4. Soundcore Space A40: best noise cancelling under $100

5. Google Pixel Buds 2a: small, with noise cancelling, for less

6. JLab JBuds Mini: smallest and cheapest

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