When it comes to budget headphones, you no longer need to compromise on sound quality to save a few bucks. Thanks to advancements in audio technology, many affordable options now deliver an impressive listening experience, making it easier to find high-quality headphones without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for over-ear, on-ear, or in-ear designs, there’s a wide variety of budget headphones that provide excellent sound, comfort, and additional features for those on a tight budget.
In this article, we will explore the 15 best budget headphones that offer quality sound. Whether you’re a casual listener, a fitness enthusiast, or someone looking to upgrade your work-from-home setup, these headphones are guaranteed to fit your needs.
1. Sony WH-CH510
Sony has long been a top contender in the audio space, and their WH-CH510 model proves you don’t need to spend a lot for a great pair of wireless headphones. The WH-CH510 is lightweight, comfortable, and boasts a long 35-hour battery life. Its Bluetooth connectivity is strong, and it supports hands-free calling, making it a versatile choice for anyone on the go.
Sound Quality
The sound quality is well-rounded with a balanced bass that doesn’t overpower the mids and highs. While it lacks the noise cancellation feature of more expensive models, the passive isolation is sufficient for casual use in moderately noisy environments.
Pros
- Long battery life
- Lightweight design
- Solid sound quality for the price
- Reliable Bluetooth connection
Cons
- Plastic build may not feel premium
- No noise-canceling feature
2. Anker Soundcore Life Q20
Anker’s Soundcore brand has made a name for itself by offering high-quality audio products at a fraction of the price of premium competitors. The Life Q20 is no exception, providing active noise cancellation (ANC) and Hi-Res Audio support, which is rare for a budget headphone.
Sound Quality
The bass is robust, but there’s also enough detail in the mids and highs to make the Q20 a great all-rounder. The ANC feature does a good job of filtering out low-frequency noises like the hum of an air conditioner or airplane cabin noise.
Pros
- Active noise cancellation
- Hi-Res Audio support
- Comfortable fit for long listening sessions
- Excellent battery life (up to 40 hours)
Cons
- ANC isn’t as effective as premium models
- The build is mostly plastic
3. Audio-Technica ATH-M20x
Audio-Technica has a strong reputation for delivering great sound across various price ranges, and the ATH-M20x is no different. These over-ear, wired headphones are perfect for those who prefer a wired connection without compromising on audio fidelity.
Sound Quality
The soundstage is expansive, and the overall tuning is neutral, which is ideal for monitoring or critical listening. The bass response is tight but not overpowering, and the mids and highs are clear and natural.
Pros
- Excellent sound quality for the price
- Durable construction
- Comfortable for extended use
Cons
- No wireless option
- Minimal features compared to higher-end models
4. JBL Tune 510BT
The JBL Tune 510BT is a great entry-level wireless option from a brand known for powerful, bass-heavy sound. These headphones are perfect for bass lovers looking for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing too much quality.
Sound Quality
As expected from JBL, the Tune 510BT delivers deep bass, which is great for pop, hip-hop, and electronic music. The mids and highs are clear but can sometimes be overshadowed by the bass, making these headphones more suitable for those who prefer bass-forward sound.
Pros
- Affordable wireless option
- Punchy bass response
- Lightweight and foldable design
Cons
- No wired option
- Bass-heavy sound might not appeal to everyone
5. OneOdio Studio DJ Headphones
OneOdio’s Studio DJ headphones are another great budget option, particularly for those who are looking for versatile use cases like music production, casual listening, and even gaming. These wired headphones feature large 50mm drivers that provide immersive sound with powerful bass.
Sound Quality
The sound signature leans toward the bass-heavy side, making them ideal for genres like EDM and hip-hop. However, the mids and highs remain crisp enough for a balanced listening experience.
Pros
- Comfortable ear pads for long sessions
- Swiveling ear cups for one-ear monitoring
- Durable build quality
- Detachable cable
Cons
- Bass can be overpowering for some listeners
- Not wireless
6. Sennheiser HD 300
Sennheiser is a well-respected brand in the audiophile community, and their budget offerings do not disappoint. The HD 300 offers a solid wired option for those looking for a clean, neutral sound without paying a premium.
Sound Quality
The HD 300 has a balanced sound signature with clear mids and highs, making them suitable for a wide range of music genres. The bass is present but not exaggerated, which audiophiles will appreciate.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Balanced sound signature
- Foldable for portability
Cons
- Lacks deep bass for bass lovers
- No wireless option
7. Koss Porta Pro
The Koss Porta Pro has a retro design that has withstood the test of time, and for good reason. These on-ear headphones are lightweight, portable, and offer surprisingly good sound for their price.
Sound Quality
The Porta Pro delivers a warm sound with a rich bass response. The mids and highs are smooth and pleasant, making them an excellent choice for casual listening. Despite their compact design, they deliver a soundstage that feels much larger.
Pros
- Iconic retro design
- Comfortable fit
- Great bass response
- Lightweight and foldable
Cons
- On-ear design may not be comfortable for everyone
- No wireless option
8. SoundMAGIC E10
If you’re in the market for in-ear headphones, the SoundMAGIC E10 is a top contender. Known for delivering excellent sound at a low price, these wired earphones are a great pick for anyone who wants quality audio without breaking the bank.
Sound Quality
The E10 offers a detailed and balanced sound profile with a slightly enhanced bass response, making it great for a variety of music genres. The mids and highs are clear and accurate, ensuring that vocals and instruments shine through.
Pros
- Excellent sound quality for in-ear headphones
- Durable metal housing
- Comfortable fit
Cons
- Wired only
- No in-line controls for volume or track skipping
9. Panasonic ErgoFit RP-TCM125
For those on a super tight budget, the Panasonic ErgoFit RP-TCM125 is a reliable choice. These in-ear headphones are incredibly affordable but still manage to deliver decent sound quality and a comfortable fit.
Sound Quality
The sound is surprisingly balanced, with a good amount of bass for the price. The mids and highs are present but not as refined as more expensive options, which is expected at this price point.
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- Comfortable fit
- Decent sound quality for the price
Cons
- Basic sound quality
- Build quality feels cheap
10. Monoprice 8323
Monoprice is known for providing budget-friendly tech accessories, and the 8323 headphones are no exception. These over-ear, wired headphones are perfect for those who want solid audio performance without spending too much.
Sound Quality
The 8323 offers a warm sound signature with a good amount of bass, making them ideal for casual listening. The mids and highs are clear but not overly detailed, so they’re best for non-critical listening.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Sturdy build quality
- Good bass response
Cons
- Sound quality could be more detailed
- Wired only
11. TaoTronics SoundSurge 60
TaoTronics has emerged as a strong competitor in the budget headphone market, and the SoundSurge 60 is a great example of what the brand has to offer. These wireless over-ear headphones feature active noise cancellation and a comfortable fit.
Sound Quality
The sound quality is well-balanced, with decent bass and clear mids and highs. The ANC feature works well enough to block out low-frequency noises, making them a solid choice for travel or commuting.
Pros
- Active noise cancellation
- Comfortable for long wear
- Long battery life (up to 30 hours)
Cons
- ANC isn’t as effective as premium models
- Plastic build feels cheap
12. JLab Audio Studio ANC
JLab Audio is known for offering high-quality audio products at budget prices, and the Studio ANC headphones are no exception. These wireless headphones offer active noise cancellation and solid sound quality for the price.
Sound Quality
The sound signature is bass-heavy, which is great for certain genres but may not appeal to everyone. The mids and highs are present but slightly recessed, so these headphones are best for bass lovers.
Pros
- Active noise cancellation
- Comfortable and lightweight
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Bass-heavy sound may not suit all tastes
- ANC is basic
13. Tribit XFree Tune
Tribit’s XFree Tune wireless headphones provide an excellent balance of affordability, sound quality, and comfort. These over-ear headphones are lightweight and feature a long-lasting battery, making them ideal for extended listening sessions.
Sound Quality
The XFree Tune offers a balanced sound with punchy bass and clear mids and highs. They’re versatile enough for a wide variety of genres, making them a great all-purpose option for budget-conscious buyers.
Pros
- Great battery life (up to 40 hours)
- Balanced sound signature
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Foldable design for portability
Cons
- No active noise cancellation
- Build quality is mostly plastic
14. Skullcandy Riff Wireless
Skullcandy is well-known for making stylish and affordable headphones, and the Riff Wireless headphones are a great budget-friendly option. With a lightweight on-ear design, these headphones are perfect for casual use and come in a variety of colors to suit your style.
Sound Quality
The Riff Wireless delivers a fun, bass-heavy sound that Skullcandy is known for. While the bass can sometimes overshadow the mids and highs, these headphones are perfect for genres like hip-hop and electronic music.
Pros
- Fun and punchy sound
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Fast charging (10 minutes gives 2 hours of playback)
Cons
- Limited soundstage
- On-ear design may not be as comfortable for long listening sessions
15. Mpow H7
Mpow has become a popular brand in the budget headphone market, and the H7 model is one of their best affordable wireless options. These over-ear headphones offer a great balance between price, sound quality, and comfort, making them ideal for everyday use.
Sound Quality
The Mpow H7 offers a slightly bass-boosted sound profile, which makes them great for casual listening. The mids and highs are clear enough to provide a decent balance, though the bass does take center stage in the overall sound signature.
Pros
- Affordable wireless option
- Comfortable over-ear design
- Long battery life (up to 25 hours)
Cons
- No noise-cancellation feature
- Bass-heavy sound may not appeal to all listeners
What to Look for in Budget Headphones
When shopping for budget headphones, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money:
1. Sound Quality
The most important aspect of any pair of headphones is sound quality. While budget headphones may not offer the same level of clarity and detail as premium models, many affordable options still provide impressive sound, especially in terms of bass response and overall balance. It’s essential to look for headphones that match your preferred sound profile, whether that’s bass-heavy, balanced, or neutral.
2. Comfort
Even the best-sounding headphones are useless if they’re uncomfortable to wear for long periods. Pay attention to factors like ear cup padding, headband adjustability, and overall weight when choosing a pair of budget headphones. Over-ear models typically provide better comfort for extended listening sessions, while in-ear and on-ear designs can be more portable but may sacrifice comfort.
3. Durability
Budget headphones are often made from cheaper materials like plastic, but that doesn’t mean they have to feel flimsy. Look for models with reinforced cables, metal headbands, or durable ear pads that can withstand everyday wear and tear. Detachable cables are also a nice feature that can extend the life of your headphones.
4. Battery Life (for Wireless Models)
If you’re going for wireless headphones, battery life is crucial. Most budget wireless headphones offer between 15 to 40 hours of playback on a single charge, but some models come with quick-charging features that can give you a few hours of playback after just a short charge.
5. Connectivity Options
While wireless headphones have become increasingly popular, some listeners still prefer the reliability of wired connections. Many budget models offer both options, so consider what works best for your needs. Bluetooth connectivity is standard for wireless headphones, but some models also support wired playback, which is useful when your battery runs low.
6. Extra Features
Some budget headphones come with additional features like active noise cancellation (ANC), built-in microphones for hands-free calling, and support for voice assistants like Siri or Google Assistant. While these features are more common in higher-end models, some budget options do offer them, making your listening experience even better.
7. Noise Isolation and Cancellation
Passive noise isolation refers to how well the headphones physically block out external sound through their design, while active noise cancellation (ANC) uses technology to reduce ambient noise. ANC is typically found in more expensive headphones, but some budget models, like the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 and TaoTronics SoundSurge 60, offer decent noise cancellation at a lower price point.
Conclusion
Finding the best budget headphones for quality sound doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Whether you prefer wired or wireless, over-ear or in-ear, there are plenty of affordable options that deliver excellent audio performance, durability, and comfort. Each of the 15 models highlighted in this article offers a great listening experience at a budget-friendly price.
For those who prioritize battery life and wireless convenience, options like the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 and Sony WH-CH510 are hard to beat. If sound quality is your main focus and you prefer a wired connection, the Audio-Technica ATH-M20x and Sennheiser HD 300 provide excellent value.
Ultimately, the best budget headphones for you will depend on your personal preferences, how you intend to use them, and the types of features that matter most to you. Whether you’re commuting, working out, or relaxing at home, there’s a pair of budget-friendly headphones out there to meet your needs without sacrificing sound quality.