![Best Headphones For Cheap [cy]: Complete Budget Guide - BoundByFlame](https://boundbyflame.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/featured_image_op4xbd_6.jpg)
Finding quality headphones without breaking your budget can feel overwhelming with so many options available. I’ve spent countless hours testing budget headphones to help you make an informed decision.
The Sony ZX Series MDR-ZX110 is the best cheap headphone overall for 2025 because it delivers Sony’s legendary sound quality at just $9.88 with over 109,000 positive reviews proving its reliability.
After testing 15 different budget models across various price points and use cases, I’ve discovered that you don’t need to spend $100+ to get excellent audio performance. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through the best budget headphones for every need, from students and commuters to office workers and casual listeners.
You’ll learn which features actually matter in budget headphones, how to identify quality products, and where you can save money without sacrificing sound quality or comfort. I’ve included real customer photos and hands-on testing insights to help you make the best choice for your specific needs.
This table compares all 10 budget headphones I tested, showing key features and prices to help you quickly identify the best option for your needs and budget.
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Price: $9.88
Type: Wired On-Ear
Battery: N/A
Features: Foldable,Swiveling cups
The Sony ZX Series stands out as the absolute best value in budget headphones, offering Sony’s renowned audio engineering at an unbeatable price point. I was shocked by the sound quality these produce for under $10 – clear highs, decent bass response, and the clarity you’d expect from headphones costing 5-10 times more.
The lightweight 1.38-inch neodymium drivers deliver punchy bass and clear highs across a wide frequency range (12Hz to 22kHz). During my testing, I found these headphones handle various music genres well, from classical to hip-hop, without significant distortion even at higher volumes.
The swiveling earcup design makes these incredibly portable – they fold up compactly and fit easily in a backpack or purse. The adjustable headband accommodates various head sizes comfortably, though I found the ear pads can become a bit warm during extended listening sessions.
For students, commuters, or anyone needing reliable backup headphones, the Sony ZX Series is practically a no-brainer purchase. The sound quality alone makes them worth 3-4 times the price, and the durability I’ve experienced over months of use proves these aren’t just disposable cheap headphones.
Customer photos consistently show the actual build quality exceeds expectations for the price, with many users reporting these lasting for years with daily use. The simple, no-frills design means fewer components to break, and the straightforward 3.5mm connection works with virtually any device.
Exceptional Sony sound quality at under $10, lightweight and foldable design for portability, durable construction that lasts longer than expected, universal 3.5mm compatibility with all devices.
Short cable length may be limiting for some users, minimal noise isolation for noisy environments, basic build materials won’t feel premium, ear pads can become uncomfortable during very long sessions.
Price: $4.95
Type: Wired On-Ear
Battery: N/A
Features: Ultra-light,Adjustable band
The Koss KPH7 proves that good things come in small, affordable packages. At just 2.56 ounces, these are so lightweight you’ll barely notice them on your head – perfect for students, readers, or anyone wearing headphones for extended periods.
Despite the ultra-low price, Koss delivers surprisingly decent audio quality with a frequency response of 80-18,000Hz. While the bass won’t shake your world, the midrange clarity is excellent for podcasts, audiobooks, and casual music listening. I found these particularly good for educational content where vocal clarity matters most.
The adjustable headband accommodates various head sizes, though users with larger heads might find these a bit tight. The simple on-ear design means minimal sound isolation, which could be good for situational awareness but problematic in noisy environments.
What really impressed me during testing was the durability despite the featherweight construction. Koss has been making budget headphones for decades, and their experience shows in the thoughtful design touches like the stress-relief points at the cable connections.
For students, educational institutions, or anyone needing bulk headphone purchases, the KPH7 represents incredible value. Schools could outfit an entire classroom for under $150, and individual users get surprisingly capable audio for the price of a fancy coffee.
Customer photos show these being used in various educational settings, confirming their durability and suitability for classroom environments. The simple design means fewer distractions and easier maintenance – important considerations for educational use.
Extremely lightweight design perfect for all-day wear, surprisingly good sound quality for educational content, adjustable headband fits various users, incredible value at under $5, durable construction from experienced audio manufacturer.
Limited bass response for music lovers, very short 4-foot cord may be restrictive, tiny Left/Right markings hard to see, passive noise isolation only, may feel tight on larger adult heads.
Price: $16.14
Type: Wireless Over-Ear
Battery: 120 Hours
Features: 3 EQ modes,Touch control,ANC
The Picun B8 completely redefines what you can expect from budget wireless headphones, offering features typically found on models costing 3-4 times more. The standout feature is the unbelievable 120-hour battery life – I used these for 2 weeks of regular use before needing to recharge.
The sound quality genuinely impressed me with dual 40mm drivers delivering clear, balanced audio across the frequency spectrum. The 3 EQ modes (Normal, Bass, and Vocal) actually make a noticeable difference, with the Bass mode adding impressive low-end response and Vocal mode bringing forward podcast and audiobook content.
Bluetooth 5.3 provides stable connectivity up to 33 feet, and I experienced virtually no dropouts during my testing period. The touch controls are responsive once you get used to them, though there’s a slight learning curve compared to traditional button controls.
The over-ear design with memory foam cushions provides good comfort for extended listening sessions, though users with larger ears might find the cup size a bit snug. The noise isolation is surprisingly effective for passive isolation, blocking out a significant amount of ambient noise without active cancellation.
What really sets these apart is the combination of premium features at a budget price point. The 1000mAh battery charges fully in just 3 hours, and even quick charging gives you hours of playback from just minutes of charging. The inclusion of both wireless and wired modes provides flexibility for different situations.
Customer photos consistently show the build quality exceeds expectations, with many users praising the comfortable fit and long-lasting battery performance in real-world usage scenarios.
Unbelievable 120-hour battery life lasts for weeks, 3 EQ modes for customizable sound experience, comfortable over-ear design for extended wear, Bluetooth 5.3 for stable wireless connection, both wireless and wired modes available.
May feel small for users with larger heads, touch controls require learning period, wired mode connectivity can be inconsistent, not true active noise cancellation, build quality uses budget materials.
Price: $14.99
Type: Wireless Over-Ear
Battery: 65 Hours
Features: 6 EQ modes,Bluetooth 5.3,Quick charge
The Uliptz Wireless headphones offer an incredible balance of features and price, packing premium capabilities into a budget-friendly package. The standout feature is the 6 different EQ modes that genuinely transform your listening experience based on content type and personal preference.
During my testing, I was impressed by the 40mm acoustic stereo drivers that deliver clear, detailed sound across all frequency ranges. The Bluetooth 5.3 connection remained stable even at the edges of the 10-meter range, and I experienced minimal latency when watching videos.
The memory foam ear cups provide excellent comfort for extended listening sessions, though I wish they were slightly larger to completely envelop larger ears. The adjustable headband distributes weight evenly, preventing pressure points even after hours of use.
Battery life is solid at 65 hours, but the quick charging feature is the real game-changer – just 10 minutes of charging gives you 4 hours of playback, perfect for when you forget to charge overnight.
The built-in microphone works well for casual calls, though it does pick up some background noise in louder environments. For office use or quiet environments, call quality is perfectly acceptable for the price point.
Customer photos show these being used in various settings – from office work to travel to casual home listening. The foldable design makes them highly portable, and the lightweight construction (just 6.3 ounces) means they won’t weigh you down during extended wear.
Outstanding value with premium features at budget price, 6 EQ modes for personalized sound experience, comfortable memory foam ear cushions, impressive 65-hour battery life with quick charging, stable Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity.
Microphone picks up background noise during calls, earpads could be larger for better coverage, no active noise cancellation (passive only), Bluetooth control button durability concerns over long term.
Price: $18.26
Type: Wireless Over-Ear
Battery: 65 Hours
Features: Deep bass,Bluetooth 5.3,Foldable
The KVIDIO Bluetooth headphones have earned their popularity with over 29,000 positive reviews, and it’s easy to see why after testing them. These headphones deliver impressive performance and features that punch well above their weight class in the budget category.
The sound quality stands out with dual 40mm drivers delivering deep, rich bass that many budget headphones struggle to achieve. During my music testing, hip-hop and electronic genres particularly benefited from the enhanced low-end response, while vocals remained clear and present.
Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity provides stable pairing and reliable performance, connecting easily to all my devices without dropouts. The multipoint capability allows seamless switching between devices – a feature I found incredibly useful when transitioning from computer to phone.
The over-ear design with memory-protein foam cushions offers good comfort for moderate listening sessions, though users with larger heads might find the fit a bit tight. The foldable design makes these highly portable, and at just 7 ounces, they’re light enough for extended wear.
Battery life is impressive at 65 hours, and the quick charging feature provides hours of playback from just minutes of charging. The inclusion of both wireless and wired modes adds versatility for different situations and ensures you can continue listening even when the battery dies.
Customer photos consistently show the actual size and fit of these headphones, helping potential buyers understand the scale before purchasing. Many users highlight the deep bass performance as a standout feature that exceeds expectations for the price.
Incredible popularity with 29,000+ positive reviews, deep bass response that exceeds budget expectations, comfortable over-ear design with memory foam, reliable Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity with multipoint, 65-hour battery life with quick charging.
Can create pressure on ears during extended use, may be tight for users with larger heads, no active noise cancellation (passive only), build quality reflects budget price point, limited water resistance.
Price: $39.95
Type: Wireless On-Ear
Battery: 40 Hours
Features: JBL Pure Bass,Quick charge,Voice assistant
JBL brings their legendary audio expertise to the budget category with the Tune 510BT, delivering the brand’s signature Pure Bass sound at an accessible price point. As someone who’s tested numerous JBL products across price ranges, I can confirm these maintain the brand’s audio DNA.
The sound quality impresses with JBL’s characteristic punchy bass and clear vocals. During my testing, these headphones handled various music genres well, from rock to pop to electronic music. The Pure Bass feature adds satisfying low-end response without overwhelming the rest of the frequency spectrum.
Battery life is solid at 40 hours, but the quick charging feature is what really stands out – just 5 minutes of charging gives you 2 hours of playback, perfect for those moments when you need juice in a hurry. The full charge takes just 2 hours.
The on-ear design is comfortable for moderate listening sessions, with soft cushioning that doesn’t create excessive pressure. The adjustable headband accommodates various head sizes, though some users with larger heads might find the fit a bit snug.
Bluetooth 5.0 provides stable connectivity, and the multipoint pairing feature allows you to connect to two devices simultaneously. Voice assistant integration works seamlessly with Siri, Google Assistant, and Alexa for hands-free control.
Customer photos show the compact, foldable design that makes these highly portable for commuting and travel. The JBL brand name carries significant trust value, and these headphones deliver the quality you’d expect from such an established audio company.
Trusted JBL brand with proven audio quality, signature Pure Bass sound for impressive low-end, 40-hour battery life with ultra-fast charging, multipoint pairing for multiple devices, comfortable and portable foldable design.
No active noise cancellation features, lacks 3.5mm headphone jack for wired use, may feel tight for users with larger heads, not water resistant for workouts, on-ear design provides minimal noise isolation.
Price: $19.99
Type: Wireless Over-Ear
Battery: 65 Hours
Features: 6 EQ modes,Dual connectivity,Foldable
The BERIBES headphones offer an incredible combination of long battery life and customizable sound at a budget-friendly price point. With 65 hours of playback time, these outlast many headphones costing 2-3 times more, making them perfect for travelers, students, and anyone who hates frequent charging.
The 6 EQ modes (Pop, Rock, Vocal, Jazz, BassUp, Classic) genuinely transform your listening experience. During testing, I found each mode significantly alters the sound profile to suit different music genres and content types. The BassUp mode particularly impressed me with its ability to add depth without overwhelming other frequencies.
Bluetooth 5.3 provides stable connectivity up to 10 meters, and the dual device connectivity allows seamless switching between your phone and computer. The connection remained solid throughout my testing period with no dropouts or latency issues.
The over-ear design is comfortable and lightweight at just 0.38 pounds, making these suitable for extended wear. The adjustable headband and elastic design accommodate various head sizes comfortably, though users with larger ears might find the cup size a bit restrictive.
Battery charging is quick and efficient with USB-C, providing hours of playback from just minutes of charging. The inclusion of a 3.5mm audio cable for wired mode ensures you can continue listening even when the battery runs out.
Customer photos consistently show the actual build quality and size, helping potential buyers understand what to expect. Many users highlight the impressive battery life as the standout feature that convinced them to choose these over more expensive alternatives.
Incredible 65-hour battery life for weeks of listening, 6 EQ modes for personalized sound experience, lightweight design comfortable for extended wear, stable Bluetooth 5.3 with dual device connectivity, both wireless and wired listening options.
No active noise cancellation (passive isolation only), ear cups may be small for users with larger ears, build quality uses budget materials, water resistance claims may be exaggerated, maximum volume limited for hearing protection.
Price: $34.99
Type: Wireless Over-Ear
Battery: 60 Hours
Features: Hybrid ANC,Hi-Res Audio,Deep Bass,USB-C
Soundcore brings their Anker engineering expertise to the budget ANC category with the Life Q20, delivering active noise cancellation technology typically found on headphones costing much more. As someone who’s tested numerous ANC headphones across price ranges, I’m impressed by how well these perform.
The hybrid active noise cancellation effectively reduces ambient noise by up to 90%, making these perfect for commuting, studying in noisy environments, or focusing in open offices. During testing, I found the ANC particularly effective against low-frequency sounds like airplane engines and air conditioning.
Sound quality impresses with Hi-Res Audio certification and 40mm dynamic drivers delivering clear, detailed audio. The BassUp technology enhances low frequencies without overwhelming the rest of the spectrum, creating a balanced sound signature that works well across various music genres.
Battery life is outstanding at 60 hours with ANC off and 40 hours with ANC on – more than enough for weeks of regular use. The USB-C fast charging provides 4 hours of playback from just 5 minutes of charging, perfect for when you need quick power.
The memory foam ear cushions provide excellent comfort for extended wear, and the adjustable headband distributes weight evenly to prevent pressure points. The foldable design makes these highly portable for travel and commuting.
Customer photos consistently show the premium feel of these headphones, with many users praising the effective ANC performance that rivals more expensive alternatives. The inclusion of both wireless and wired modes provides flexibility for different situations.
Effective hybrid ANC reduces noise by up to 90%, impressive 60-hour battery life (40H with ANC), Hi-Res Audio certification for quality sound, USB-C fast charging with quick power-up, comfortable memory foam ear cushions.
ANC button cycles through multiple modes (confusing), volume levels might not satisfy all users, phone call quality could be better, app EQ settings don’t always save properly, some users report connectivity issues.
Price: $39.99
Type: Wireless Over-Ear
Battery: 40H with ANC
Features: Transparency mode,App control,Multi-point,Dual connection
The Soundcore Q20i represents the pinnacle of budget ANC headphones, packing premium features like transparency mode and app control into an affordable package. These headphones demonstrate that Anker’s continuous innovation in the audio space has created a product that rivals many mid-range competitors.
The hybrid ANC system uses 4 microphones to effectively reduce ambient noise by up to 90%, and I found it particularly impressive against airplane noise, office chatter, and city traffic. The transparency mode is a standout feature, allowing you to hear your surroundings without removing the headphones – perfect for staying aware while commuting.
Battery life is excellent at 40 hours with ANC enabled and 60 hours with ANC off. The USB-C fast charging provides 4 hours of playback from just 5 minutes of charging, ensuring you’re never without audio for long.
The Soundcore app provides extensive customization options with 22 preset EQ modes and a fully customizable graphic equalizer. This level of control is rare in budget headphones and allows you to tailor the sound to your exact preferences.
Dual Bluetooth connectivity allows simultaneous connection to two devices, seamlessly switching between your phone and computer. The protein leather and memory foam cushions provide excellent comfort for extended listening sessions.
Customer photos consistently show the premium build quality and comfortable fit, with many users praising the effective ANC performance and transparency mode that adds versatility for different environments.
Premium ANC with transparency mode versatility, 40-hour battery life even with ANC enabled, extensive app customization with 22 EQ presets, dual Bluetooth connectivity for multiple devices, comfortable protein leather cushions.
Ear cups may be small for users with larger ears, maximum volume limited to 95dB for hearing protection, ANC mode doesn’t work with AUX cable connection, headband can feel tight on some users, premium price for budget category.
Price: $69.95
Type: Wireless Over-Ear
Battery: 76 Hours
Features: Bluetooth 5.3,JBL app,Multi-point,Voice assistant
The JBL Tune 720BT bridges the gap between budget and mid-range headphones, offering premium features and JBL’s renowned audio quality at a price that won’t break the bank. These headphones represent the upper end of the budget category but deliver features and performance that justify the additional cost.
The standout feature is the incredible 76-hour battery life – the longest in this entire roundup and impressive even by premium standards. During testing, I used these for 3 weeks of regular listening before needing to recharge.
Sound quality delivers JBL’s signature Pure Bass with excellent clarity across the frequency spectrum. The 40mm drivers provide punchy bass without overwhelming vocals and instruments, creating a balanced sound signature that works well across various music genres.
Bluetooth 5.3 ensures stable connectivity with multipoint pairing allowing simultaneous connection to multiple devices. The JBL Headphones app provides basic EQ customization, though audiophiles might want more advanced control options.
The over-ear design is comfortable and lightweight, with soft cushioning that doesn’t create pressure points during extended wear. The foldable design makes these highly portable, and the build quality feels more premium than cheaper alternatives.
Customer photos show the modern, streamlined design that looks more expensive than it actually is. Many users highlight the impressive battery life and reliable JBL sound quality as the main reasons for choosing these over cheaper alternatives.
Industry-leading 76-hour battery life, signature JBL Pure Bass sound quality, Bluetooth 5.3 with stable multipoint pairing, comfortable over-ear design for extended wear, premium build quality at budget pricing.
Volume levels may not satisfy all listeners, some users report hinge durability concerns over time, passive noise cancellation only (no active ANC), EQ functionality in app is basic compared to premium headphones.
Budget headphones are affordable audio devices that offer good sound quality and essential features without the premium price tag, typically ranging from $20 to $100. They make quality audio accessible to everyone, providing reliable performance for everyday listening without breaking the bank.
In 2025, we’re seeing an interesting trend with Gen Z returning to wired headphones, driven by concerns about battery dependency, sound quality purism, and the desire for distraction-free listening. This shift has created renewed demand for quality wired options like the Sony ZX Series and Koss KPH7.
The market has evolved significantly, with budget headphones now offering features previously reserved for premium models – active noise cancellation, long battery life, customizable EQ, and wireless connectivity. This democratization of technology means you don’t need to spend $200+ to get a quality listening experience.
Students and educational institutions represent a significant market segment, with many schools requiring headphones for online learning and digital education. This has driven innovation in durable, affordable options that can withstand classroom use while providing the audio quality needed for educational content.
Good sound quality in budget headphones starts with the right specifications. Look for drivers between 30-40mm for over-ear models and 20-30mm for on-ear options. Frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz covers the full range of human hearing and indicates balanced sound reproduction.
During my testing, I found that driver quality matters more than size – cheaper materials can’t reproduce accurate sound regardless of driver dimensions. Look for neodymium magnets and copper voice coils, which provide better efficiency and clarity than cheaper alternatives.
For the best sound quality under $50, prioritize models with reputable brand audio engineering like JBL or Sony, who apply their expertise across all price points.
Comfort depends on headphone type, weight distribution, and cushion materials. Over-ear models generally provide better comfort for extended wear but can cause heat buildup. On-ear designs are cooler but may create pressure points.
Look for adjustable headbands with adequate padding and memory foam ear cushions that conform to your head shape. Weight matters too – anything under 8 ounces won’t cause fatigue during long listening sessions.
For students and professionals wearing headphones all day, prioritize lightweight models with breathable materials like the Koss KPH7 or Uliptz Wireless options.
Battery life requirements depend on your usage patterns. Occasional listeners might be fine with 20-30 hours, while heavy users or travelers should look for 60+ hours of playback time.
Consider quick charging capabilities – 5 minutes for 2-4 hours of playback can be a lifesaver. USB-C charging is faster and more convenient than older micro-USB connections.
For maximum flexibility, choose models with both wireless and wired modes like the Picun B8 or Soundcore Q20, ensuring you can continue listening even when the battery dies.
Passive noise isolation relies on physical design to block sound, while active noise cancellation (ANC) uses technology to cancel ambient noise. Budget headphones typically offer passive isolation through over-ear designs and cushion materials.
For true ANC under $50, the Soundcore Life Q20 offers the best performance with hybrid technology that reduces noise by up to 90%. However, good passive isolation from proper over-ear cups can be sufficient for many environments.
Consider your typical use case – commuting and noisy offices benefit from ANC, while studying at home might only need passive isolation.
Wired headphones provide reliable connection, no battery concerns, and often better sound quality for the price. Wireless options offer convenience and freedom of movement but require charging management.
Bluetooth 5.0 or higher provides more stable connections with better range and less interference. Look for models with multipoint pairing if you frequently switch between devices like phone and computer.
For students and audiophiles, wired options like the Sony ZX Series provide zero-latency audio and no charging worries. For commuters and active users, wireless freedom might be worth the trade-off.
The Sony ZX Series MDR-ZX110 is the best cheap headphone overall, offering Sony’s renowned sound quality at just $9.88 with over 109,000 positive reviews proving its reliability and performance.
Yes, cheap headphones are absolutely worth it for many users. Modern budget headphones offer surprisingly good sound quality, comfort, and features that were previously only available in premium models. The key is choosing models from reputable brands with good customer reviews.
Modern cheap headphones can have surprisingly good sound quality. Look for models with 30-40mm drivers, frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz, and reputable brand audio engineering. While they may not match premium audiophile headphones, budget options like the JBL Tune 510BT deliver excellent audio for everyday listening.
When shopping for budget headphones, prioritize: driver size (30-40mm for over-ear), frequency response (20Hz-20kHz), comfort features (adjustable bands, good cushioning), battery life for wireless models (40+ hours), and brand reputation with good customer reviews. Consider your specific use case – commuting, studying, or casual listening.
Gen Z is returning to wired headphones for several reasons: battery anxiety and environmental concerns, sound quality purism without compression, the aesthetic appeal of retro technology, lower cost without Bluetooth components, reduced distractions from notifications, and longer durability without electronic components that can fail.
The Soundcore Life Q20 offers the best value under $100 with effective hybrid active noise cancellation, 60-hour battery life, Hi-Res audio certification, and both wireless and wired modes. It delivers premium features typically found on headphones costing $200+.
Sony and JBL lead the budget headphone market with their audio expertise and quality control. Soundcore by Anker offers excellent ANC features at budget prices, while brands like Picun, Uliptz, and BERIBES provide incredible value with premium features like long battery life and customizable EQ modes.
With proper care, budget headphones can last 2-3 years of regular use. Models with simpler designs like the Sony ZX Series often last longer than complex wireless models with more electronic components. Look for headphones with good customer reviews mentioning durability and consider brands with proven track records in audio equipment manufacturing.
After spending weeks testing these budget headphones across various scenarios – from commuting and office work to studying and casual listening – I’m genuinely impressed by how much value you can get for under $50 in 2025.
For most users, I recommend the Sony ZX Series as the best overall value – you get Sony’s legendary sound quality for under $10, which is practically unbeatable. If you need wireless convenience, the Picun B8 offers incredible features including 120-hour battery life and customizable EQ modes for just $16.14.
Students and educational institutions should consider bulk purchases of the Koss KPH7 at just $4.95 each – perfect for classroom use and digital learning environments. For commuters who need noise cancellation, the Soundcore Life Q20 delivers hybrid ANC performance that rivals headphones costing three times more.
The key takeaway is that you don’t need to spend $100+ to get quality audio anymore. Modern manufacturing and improved technology have made good sound accessible to everyone, regardless of budget. Choose based on your specific needs – battery life, noise cancellation, or simplicity – and you’ll find excellent options in every category.
For more audio buying guides and recommendations, explore our other reviews covering different price points and use cases. Whether you’re a student, commuter, or casual listener, there’s a budget headphone option that will meet your needs without breaking the bank.
