They can be, but it depends on what you’re looking for. Most passive earplugs offer better protection and are very affordable. They also don’t need to be charged or have batteries replaced, which is nice because they’ll always work when you need them most. But if you’re looking for more comfort or sound quality, then yes a pair of electronic earbuds will provide better overall performance. They also tend to last longer than passive earplugs because you won’t have to replace the battery every few hours. Ensure you get a good pair with an NRR over 30 decibels for maximum protection.