truefree HD-100

The Truefree HD-100 is a surprisingly loaded neckband with best-in-class build, strong battery, and BT 6.0 connectivity, but comfort holds it back. At $36, it's a no-brainer for gym rats who need a beater pair. Anyone looking for all-day musical bliss should skip it.

If you're still rocking a neckband in 2025, the Truefree HD-100 makes a strong case with some surprisingly modern tricks. It's got Bluetooth 6.0, spatial audio, and an IP67 rating that means you can rinse off after a muddy trail run. At $36 (don't pay more—some sellers are asking $711, which is insane), it's a budget workout buddy that packs ANC and multipoint.

But here's the catch: the fit is polarizing. Our comfort score landed in the bottom third of earbuds we've tested, so if you need all-day wear, these might bug you. For short, intense sessions, though, the magnetic clasp neckband and wingtips keep them from flying off.

Sound is solid, landing in the 86th percentile with 11mm drivers that deliver punchy bass and a decent soundstage thanks to spatial audio. Music purists will notice treble that lacks sparkle, which likely explains the weak 54.2 music score, but for workout playlists it gets the job done. ANC hits the 80th percentile—enough to hush gym noise and plane hum. Battery life is a standout at 20 hours with a fast charge that nets nearly 5 hours in 10 minutes, putting it in the 89th percentile. Connectivity is equally strong with BT 6.0 and reliable multipoint (90th percentile). The mic is average (66th percentile), fine for calls but not crystal clear in windy conditions. Comfort, however, is a consistent drag.

At $36, the HD-100 is an absolute steal for the feature list. You're getting ANC, spatial audio, multipoint, and a 20-hour battery in a package tough enough for the gym. But if you're looking at the $711 listing, close that tab immediately—that's scalper nonsense. Even $50 would be a tough sell. Grab it from Amazon when it's at its lowest and you'll feel like you got away with something.

Against the JBL Endurance Peak 4, the HD-100 gives you a neckband that won't drop, though JBL's earhook design feels more secure during burpees. The SoundPEATS H3 is another neckband with similar battery life but lacks ANC and BT 6.0. If you can spend triple, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro deliver wildly better sound and comfort, but they'll flinch at a puddle while the HD-100 just shrugs it off. The EarFun Air Pro 4+ offers nicer ANC for a bit more money, but its true wireless form isn't as impervious to sweat and dust.

Skip these if comfort is a top priority or if you need stellar music quality. The fit can be a literal pain, and the treble lacks the refinement of even slightly more expensive buds like the EarFun Air Pro 4+. If you want all-day wear, look at true wireless with memory foam tips.

If you want a cheap, tough-as-nails neckband for sweaty workouts and don't mind a so-so fit, grab the HD-100. It's built for abuse, loaded with features, and the battery lasts forever.