Wicked Little Buds

Wicked Little Buds from Lindon, Utah-based Wicked Audio are just that: wicked and little. In my opinion they are the best in-ear headphones available for under $30, bar none. Here’s why:

Sound Quality These things can handle just about everything and don’t distort at high volumes. Even with tiny bass drivers, Wicked Little Buds excel with low tones and put out good highs and mids. The included silicone tips offer great sound isolation and are part of the reason these buds sound so good.

Comfort Wicked Audio includes three different tip sizes with these sound machines, so you’re sure to find one you’re comfortable with. I use the middle size and have been impressed with their overall comfort. The silicone on these tips is a little thinner than that on other buds, which makes these more comfortable as they are better able to conform to the shape of the ear canal.

Runner-ready Features A few things about Wicked Little Buds make them ideal for running, if you choose to run with audio. First, they weigh next to nothing and practically disappear when you put them on. Second, they don’t fall out. Third, the cord is long enough that you can stash your iPod in your pocket if you don’t have an arm strap, but short enough that you won’t get yourself tangled in it. The cord is also covered with braided fiber sheath that glides easily under clothing, which I believe reduces the likelihood of the buds being yanked out of your ears.

Lifetime Warranty That’s right! Says it right on the box. So if you’re listening to Rage at brain-melting volumes and happen to blow them out, Empire will replace them.

Wicked Little Buds are available in stores for $29.99. They are a steal at that price, but you can probably find a better deal if you snoop around online.