Best Budget Headphones 2025: Top Affordable Picks Under $50 & $100
Introduction
Shopping for the best budget headphones in 2025 can feel overwhelming. With dozens of brands releasing affordable models every year, the good news is that you no longer need to spend hundreds of dollars for excellent sound, long battery life, or even noise cancellation.
This guide will walk you through the top headphones under $50 and under $100, explain what features to look for, and help you decide which model best suits your lifestyle. Whether you’re a student looking for lightweight headphones, a commuter needing noise cancellation, or a gamer on a budget, you’ll find the right match here.
Table of Contents
Why Budget Headphones Are a Smart Buy in 2025
Affordability Without Sacrificing Quality
Five years ago, “budget headphones” usually meant poor build quality and average sound. In 2025, competition has forced companies to pack premium features into affordable models.
Modern Features at Lower Prices
Expect to see Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, hybrid active noise cancellation (ANC), fast charging via USB-C, and customizable EQ settings even in budget ranges.
More Choices, More Value
Brands like Anker (Soundcore), TOZO, JLab, Sony, and JBL are all releasing budget-friendly headphones, giving buyers more options than ever before.
How We Chose the Best Budget Headphones
We tested and compared dozens of models using four key criteria:
- Sound Quality & Comfort – Balanced sound, comfort for long listening, and solid build.
- Battery Life & Connectivity – Minimum of 25–40 hours playback with Bluetooth 5.0+.
- Durability – Sturdy frames, foldable designs, and travel-friendly builds.
- Price Brackets – Divided into under $50 (entry-level) and under $100 (premium budget).
Best Budget Headphones Under $50
These models prove that excellent headphones don’t have to cost more than a dinner out.
| Model | Price Range | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| TOZO HT2 | ~$40 | Hybrid ANC, 30 hrs battery, plush padding | All-round use |
| Sony WH-CH510 | ~$40–45 (sale) | 35 hrs battery, USB-C, lightweight | Students, commuters |
| Anker Soundcore Life Q20 (discounted) | ~$49 (sale/refurbished) | ANC, 40 hrs battery, BassUp | Affordable ANC |
| JLab Studio Pro Wireless | ~$30 | 50+ hrs battery, foldable, lightweight | Workouts & casual listening |
TOZO HT2
The TOZO HT2 is a hidden gem. For around $40, you get hybrid ANC, solid bass response, and comfortable over-ear cushions. They’re ideal for students or anyone working from home who wants quiet focus without spending big.
Sony WH-CH510
Sony’s WH-CH510 is one of the best lightweight options under $50. It’s compact, weighs almost nothing, and delivers 35 hours of battery life with quick USB-C charging. Great for commuters and students.
Anker Soundcore Life Q20
A classic budget favorite, the Q20 often drops under $50 during sales. With ANC, deep bass, and 40 hours of playback, they’re an unbeatable value for those who want noise cancellation without overspending.
JLab Studio Pro Wireless
If battery life matters most, JLab Studio Pro Wireless offers 50+ hours of listening for under $30. They don’t include ANC, but they’re lightweight, portable, and a great workout companion.
Best Budget Headphones Under $100
When you step up to the under-$100 range, you unlock stronger noise cancellation, customizable EQ settings, and more premium build quality.
| Model | Price Range | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anker Soundcore Life Q30 | ~$80–90 | Excellent ANC, EQ app, 40–60 hrs battery | Best all-round pick |
| Audio-Technica ATH-M20x | ~$70 | Wired, neutral sound, durable build | Musicians, wired fans |
| Skullcandy Hesh ANC | ~$100 | Strong bass, ANC, 22 hrs battery | Bass lovers |
| JBL Tune 760NC | ~$90 | Solid ANC, 50 hrs battery, foldable | Travelers |
Anker Soundcore Life Q30
The Q30 is the gold standard in budget ANC headphones. With multiple noise-canceling modes, up to 60 hours of playback, and customizable EQ through the Soundcore app, it outperforms most rivals under $100.
Audio-Technica ATH-M20x
A wired option for purists, the ATH-M20x offers neutral, accurate sound that’s perfect for music production, podcasts, or anyone who values studio-style audio. Its rugged build is designed for years of use.
Skullcandy Hesh ANC
Bass lovers will enjoy the Hesh ANC’s deep, punchy sound. With ANC and quick-charge support, they’re fun headphones for under $100, especially for hip-hop and EDM fans.
JBL Tune 760NC
Travelers will appreciate the foldable design, reliable ANC, and 50 hours of playtime. JBL’s sound signature is bass-boosted but balanced enough for most genres.
Best Budget Headphones for Different Needs
For Gaming
Look for low-latency or wired headphones. The Anker Q30 works for casual gaming thanks to its multipoint Bluetooth support.
For Fitness & Workouts
Choose lightweight models like JLab Studio Pro Wireless that won’t slip during exercise.
For Students & Studying
The Sony WH-CH510 is ideal for students: affordable, lightweight, and long-lasting.
For Travel & Commuting
Noise cancellation is essential. The Life Q20, Q30, and JBL Tune 760NC are all excellent choices.
Features to Look for in Budget Headphones
Wired vs Wireless
Wired models (like ATH-M20x) offer zero latency, while wireless models are more convenient for everyday use.
Noise Cancellation
- Passive isolation relies on tight earcups.
- Active noise cancellation (ANC) electronically reduces ambient noise — a feature now common under $100.
👉 If you prefer earbuds instead of headphones, check out our guide to the Top 10 Noise-Canceling Earbuds 2025.
Comfort & Build
Look for memory foam earcups, adjustable headbands, and foldable frames if you travel often.
Sound Signature
Do you want a neutral sound, boosted bass, or balanced tuning? Choosing the right sound profile will make your listening experience far more enjoyable. According to Lifewire’s expert headphone buying guide, details like driver size, tuning style, and ANC type can dramatically affect real-world performance—even in budget models.
Budget vs Premium: When to Upgrade
- Stick with budget headphones if you want everyday listening for work, study, or commuting.
- Upgrade to premium models if you’re an audiophile, professional gamer, or want advanced features like spatial audio and multi-device pairing.
FAQs
1. Are budget headphones worth it in 2025?
Yes. With strong ANC, long battery, and reliable sound, budget models deliver amazing value compared to just a few years ago.
2. What are the best headphones under $50?
Top picks include TOZO HT2, Sony WH-CH510, and Anker Life Q20 (when discounted).
3. Do cheap headphones really have good noise cancellation?
Yes. Models like Anker Q20/Q30 and JBL Tune 760NC offer effective ANC at budget prices.
4. Which are best for workouts?
Lightweight wireless options like JLab Studio Pro Wireless.
5. How long do budget headphones last?
On average 2–3 years, though good care can extend lifespan significantly.
Conclusion
The best budget headphones of 2025 prove you don’t need to spend a fortune for great audio.
- Under $50: TOZO HT2 and Sony WH-CH510 are the best all-rounders.
- Under $100: Anker Soundcore Life Q30 is the standout for its premium ANC and customization.
Whether you need headphones for studying, traveling, working out, or casual listening, there’s a budget option that fits your lifestyle.
👉 If you’d prefer something smaller, check out our Top 10 Noise-Canceling Earbuds 2025 for portable alternatives.
Kamran Khatri is the founder of technalagy.com, where he shares insights on AI, future tech, gadgets, smart homes, and the latest tech news. Passionate about making innovation simple and accessible, he writes guides, reviews, and opinions that help readers stay ahead in the digital world.
