The 12 Best Cheap Headphones
Find the best budget headphones (of all types) you can get right now.
Contents
Comparison: The Best Cheap Headphones
| Badge | Rating | Price | Design | Connection | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Audio-Technica ATH-M20x |  | best overall | 4.4 | under $50 | over-ear closed-back | wired 3.5mm | More info |
| SoundMAGIC E10 |  | best in-ear under $50 | 3.9 | under $40 | in-ear closed-back | wired 3.5mm | More info |
| Avantree Audition |  | best wireless (over-ear) | 4.3 | under $50 | over-ear closed-back | bluetooth 40h battery | More info |
| MEE Audio N1 |  | best wireless (earbuds) | 3.9 | under $50 | in-ear closed-back | bluetooth 8h battery | More info |
| Mpow H5 |  | best noise-cancelling | 4.3 | under $50 | over-ear closed-back | bluetooth 12h battery & wired 3.5mm | More info |
| Enacfire E19 |  | best true wireless | 4.4 | under $50 | in-ear (true wireless) closed-back | bluetooth 3h battery +12h in case | More info |
| Koss PortaPro |  | best on-ear | 4.4 | under $40 | on-ear open-back | wired 3.5mm | More info |
| Monoprice 8323 |  | best under $30 | 3.9 | under $30 | over-ear closed-back | wired 3.5mm | More info |
| Anker SoundBuds Slim+ |  | best sports | 3.9 | under $30 | in-ear closed-back | bluetooth 7h battery | More info |
| Koss UR-20 |  | best under $20 | 4.0 | under $20 | over-ear closed-back | wired 3.5mm | More info |
| KZ ZST |  | best earbuds under $20 | 4.1 | under $20 | in-ear closed-back | wired 3.5mm | More info |
| Panasonic RP-HJE120 |  | best under $10 | 4.2 | under $10 | in-ear closed-back | wired 3.5mm | More info |
Here’s the best guide to cheap headphones. You can choose from all types, over-ear, on-ear, earbuds, wired and wireless and even noise-cancelling models.
You will only find headphones cheaper than $50, but if that’s too much, you can find them for even less (under $30, under $20 and even under 10 bucks).
While the budget headphones here can’t really compare to higher-end models, they offer the best value for your money with good quality for a low price.
So, if you are the type of person who likes to get a lot of value for little money, these are the best headphones for you (science proves money busy happiness if…)
In case you’re looking for a specific type of headphones on a budget, you can find related guides below.
Related guides:
The best cheap earbuds (in-ear monitors)
Best budget noise-canceling headphones
The Best Headphones under $50
best overall: Audio-Technica ATH-M20x
Audio-Technica ATH-M20x are the best over-ear headphones under 50$.
Type: Over-ear
Back design: Closed-back
Noise-cancelling: No
Connection: Wired, 3.5mm
Should You Buy These?
If you’re looking for great-sounding headphones for little money, these are a top choice.
The Good
The closed-back headphones are well built considering the price. They can survive most of the unfortunate drops.
Another great thing about them is simple, yet appealing design that never comes out of style (they look similar to Audio-Technica’s higher-end models).
Also, they are quite comfortable. Large and well-padded over-ear ear cups provide comfort for hours so you can enjoy your favorite music without itching.
The Bad
The sad thing is, there is no remote control or microphone, so no calls can be made. But that’s okay since these are made for home listening.
The Sound
The ATH-M20x have a somewhat balanced sound signature. The overall sound quality is much better than you’d expect for 50 dollars. You also get a robust bass response while keeping the details. These headphones sound good for every music genre.
The Verdict
Audio-Technica ATH-M20x are one of the best cheap headphones under $50 today. With a better than expected combination of audio quality, comfort, build quality, and overall reliability. They are the top choice for the budget.
best in-ear: SoundMAGIC E10
SoundMAGIC E10 are the best earbuds under $50 on the market.
Type: In-ear
Back design: Closed-back
Noise-cancelling: No
Connection: Wired, 3.5mm
Related: More earbuds under $50
Should You Buy These?
If you’re looking for in-ear headphones with good built quality, comfort, and fantastic sound (for an affordable price) then check these out.
The Good
The first thing that will catch your eye is their stylish design. It looks pricier than it actually is.
Remember that using foam eartips can give you much-improved comfort. Using proper tips for your ear canal provides amazing passive noise isolation. Plus, they stay in their place so you can easily use them on the go.
The E10C model also comes with universal remote control and built-in microphone for phone calls (it costs slightly more but still under $50).
The Bad
Still, the buds aren’t sweatproof or made for sports, so they tend to die if abused.
The Sound
They produce excellent, precise sound. The sound signature is balanced. Because of that, they’re perfect for all music genres. From classical to rock, you’ll be pleased. Just don’t expect overpowering bass because they don’t have it.
The Verdict
SoundMAGIC E10 earbuds are an exceptional choice for under $50. They sound much better than the price would warrant, and that’s why they’re so popular with audiophiles on a budget.
best wireless: Avantree Audition
Avantree Audition are the best cheap wireless headphones (over-ear under $50).
Type: Over-ear
Back design: Closed-back
Noise-cancelling: No
Connection: Wireless: Bluetooth and NFC
Related: The best Bluetooth headphones under $50
Should You Buy These?
Do you want reliable wireless over-the-ear headphones with solid battery life and low price? Read on.
The Good
Their sturdy design is quite durable even though these are considered a budget product. Well-padded earcups provide excellent comfort, even if you’re wearing them for a long time. They also offer decent sound isolation since they have a closed-back.
You can connect them with all kind of Bluetooth devices.
Furthermore, the battery life is impressive. It can last up to 40 hours. Also, you can plug in the cord and enjoy them in wired mode as well.
That’s not all. You also get a built-in remote control for managing tracks and a built-in mic you can use for your phone calls.
The Bad
The microphone is just okay. You can’t really use it for serious talking. Also, the mic and the remote buttons don’t work in wired mode (as is usual).
The Sound
The audio consists of deep bass that colors other ranges into a warm sound. It’s enjoyable with a decent amount of detail and clarity for casual listening, but can’t compare to high-end headphones. They support aptX codec for better quality over Bluetooth and NFC for easier connection.
The Verdict
Avantree Audition are a fantastic pair of wireless headphones because of extended battery life, good build, and sound quality and an unbeatable price that’s rare to find in this category of headphones.
best wireless in-ear: MEE Audio N1
MEE Audio N1 are the best Bluetooth earbuds you can find under 50$.
Type: In-ear
Back design: Closed-back
Noise-cancelling: No
Connection: Wireless: Bluetooth
Related: Best Bluetooth earbuds under $50
Should You Buy These?
If you’re looking for wireless in-ear headphones under $50, you have to take a look at these.
The Good
The lightweight design maximizes their comfort. Thus, you can wear them for hours and never complain about ear pain.
Plus, because of their flexible neckband and magnets, you can wear them as a necklace. They can stay around your neck.
With enough juice for up to 8 hours of music, they can compare to high-end wireless earbuds that cost much more money. Add an in-line remote and mic for more convenience, and you get a great pair of wireless earbuds.
The Bad
If you wear them for too long, your ears might get sweaty. Also, these are a neckband design—for improved battery—but aren’t sweatproof or made for sports.
The Sound
The audio is rich in lows. It’s enhanced and can make your daily routine more fun. Their sound signature is especially suitable for EDM or hip-hop music and everybody that like loud bass.
The Verdict
Reliable and cheap wireless earbuds are rare to find nowadays, and if you’re looking for precisely that, you must consider MEE Audio N1. As these are one of the best wireless buds for casual, everyday use.
best noise-cancelling: Mpow H5
Mpow H5 are the best noise-cancelling headphones on a budget.
Type: Over-ear
Back design: Closed-back
Noise-cancelling: Yes
Connection: Wireless: Bluetooth
Should You Buy These?
If you’re looking for decent active noise cancelling headphones with heavy bass sound on the cheap, this is it.
The Good
Decent looks and durable design are one of the first things you notice. Foldable design makes them easy to travel with.
Plus, well-padded cups provide excellent comfort for hours. Though they aren’t as comfortable as more expensive ANC headphones.
You can find built-in controls to help you manage your songs. There’s also a microphone you can use for calls.
If you’re using both ANC (active noise-cancelling) technology and Bluetooth mode, the battery can last up to 12 hours, which is kind of impressive at this price range. Also, you can connect two Bluetooth devices simultaneously.
The Bad
Headphones only come with a soft carrying bag. Also, their noise cancellation technology isn’t the most effective since they’re so cheap.
Find other cheap noise cancelling headphones or get the best premium noise canceling headphones.
The Sound
They have an unmistakable bass-heavy sound. It’s loud and boomy at times so not suitable for purists. Nonetheless, an average listener will still enjoy it.
Likewise, if you want to listen to jazz or classical music, these are probably not the best choice.
The Verdict
Although Mpow H5 noise-canceling headphones are not ideal for everyone, they provide a lot of technology and functionality for a really cheap price. So, if you want budget ANC headphones, they should be your first option.
best true wireless: Enacfire E19
Enacfire E19 are the best true wireless headphones under $50.
Type: True wireless
Back design: Closed-back
Noise-cancelling: No
Connection: Wireless: Bluetooth
Should You Buy These?
If you want to try the latest headphone technology but want to spend little money, consider the Enacfire E19.
The Good
Soft materials and 3 different eartip sizes provide reliable comfort and a secure fit.
You can wear just one earbud if you’re making calls or if you want to be aware of your surroundings while in a car.
They stay put and generally don’t lose the fit. Plus, they last for solid 3 hours per single charge which isn’t too bad for true wireless headphones. With the carrying and charging case, you get up to 15 hours of battery. This can compare to much more expensive models.
The Bad
They’re troubled by usual true wireless problems like limited battery life compared to alternatives and mediocre phone call quality.
The Sound
The sound quality is good for the price range. With enhanced low frequencies, they are great for listening to house or rap as well as other modern music. But they should be used for casual listening only and aren’t detailed enough for monitoring or studio work.
The Verdict
The most significant selling point on Enacfire E19 is their reliable wireless performance, comfort, durability and enjoyable sound for a dirt-cheap price of fewer than 50 dollars.
best on-ear: Koss PortaPro
Available for well under $50, the Koss PortaPro headphones are a superb value for those needing big sound from a compact package.
These headphones feature a classic design that hasn’t changed since 1984, and the audio quality rivals many models that are twice the price.
PROS
- Very lightweight design, comfortable
- Does not clamp too tight
- Sound comparable to more expensive models
- Clear highs and punchy mids
- Cheap price, great value for money
CONS
- Headband can grab hair
- No ambient noise isolation
- Carrying pouch is on the small side
What’s in the box?
- Koss PortaPro headphones
- Soft pouch with draw-string for storage
- 4’ cable with straight 3.5mm plug (permanently attached)
- User manual
Comfort
The on-the-ear design of these semi-open-back headphones works great, given their lightweight construction and minimal structural elements.
The adjustable temple pads provide a little bit of support above the ears so that the ear cups do not clamp too tight. Therefore, they are useless for running.
Note: Check headphones most suitable for running here.
The PortaPro design does not provide any level of isolation, so they are not well suited for environments where noise needs to be blocked out or where sound leakage from the headphones is a problem.
Also, as you can see from the picture above, the headband is very thin and light, but adjusting the headband on the head may grab hair and cause some initial discomfort.
The earpads are nothing special, but the headphones are so light that the thin foam surround will not be a problem for most users.
Durability
The thin metal spring-steel headband is durable, and the hinged plastic attachment points with the earcups are robust enough to withstand persistent use.
The compact design is very functional and sturdy, although excessive pressure on the hinge points will result in hairline cracks or breakage.
Moreover, the steel headband is quite durable, so users should not be concerned with folding these headphones and storing them in the provided pouch.
Features
With a dynamic semi-open headphone design, the Koss PortaPro earpads rest on the ears instead of over them. This makes them quite comfortable and very suitable for long listening sessions.
The headphones come with a permanently installed 4ft (1.2m) cable with a straight 3.5mm plug.
One major downside is that the cable has minimal strain relief. This design can cause the cord to tangle and possibly break under harsh conditions.
Sound
For a rather small dynamic driver with a paper diaphragm, these headphones really produce some exceptional audio.
The soundstage is open and reasonably detailed, and the open back design allows for some pretty good imaging.
Mid tones are delivered very tight, and even punchy which is excellent for various types of music.
The bass response is not overbearing, but it does lack a bit of the controlled depth that some listeners might be used to with larger headphone drivers.
Considering the price and how compact these headphones are, the Koss PortaPro are a classic worthy of their solid reputation.
The retro design is instantly recognizable, and the sound quality is excellent.
Thus, the lightweight headphones are perfect for wearing around the house or throwing in a travel bag. Just be prepared for the tangle-prone cable and a metal headband that can grab your hair when adjusted on the head.
Note: For those interested in a model with in-line volume controls and a smartphone compatible talkback mic, Koss provides the PortaPro KTC headphones.
For a great sound at a low price with a vintage look, get Koss PortaPro.
The Best Headphones under $30
best under $30: Monoprice 8323
Closed-Back design gives these headphones excellent noise isolation, and the large drivers efficiently produce a loud, robust sound. Top pick for $30.
DJ’s will love the earcup swivel design and tight bass response that these headphones deliver, and the additional detachable cables are handy for a variety of uses.
Related: The best headphones under $30
PROS
- High level of isolation
- Large 50mm drivers
- Large ear cups
- Great bass response
- Warm mids
- Overall good audio clarity
- Two cable lengths provided (4ft & 11.5ft)
CONS
- Treble can be lacking in sizzle and brilliance
- Vinyl earpads can get hot
- Construction seems durable but has some weak plastic joints
- Clamps tight on larger heads
- Plastic components easily conduct cord noise through the earcup case
- Detachable factory cables are ok, but not the best quality
What’s in the box?
- Monoprice 8323 headphones
- 4ft & 11.5ft cables with 3.5mm jacks on each end
- 3.5mm to ¼” jack adapter
Comfort
Overall, these headphones can seem to be bulky and perhaps a little heavy, but nonetheless, they are somewhat comfortable.
The large 50mm drivers are surrounded by large vinyl earpads that fit snug over and around the ear, fitting well for most ear sizes.
Long-term wearing can generate a fair amount of heat and sweat with the vinyl earpads, and the headband can be a little tight for larger heads.
Also, the headband is large and well padded, and the swiveling earcups add some extra positioning comfort.
The closed-back design of these headphones provides excellent noise isolation, making them great for noisy environments or private listening needs.
Durability
The plastic construction and swivel design of the Monoprice 108323 isn’t the best, but it does hold up under repeated use and normal physical stress.
The included cables are OK, with the longer 11.5ft cable being thicker and more robust than the shorter 4ft cord.
The great thing about the cables is that they are easily replaceable and do not require a proprietary connector. (Standard 3.5mm stereo plugs are used.)
Features
Few headphones at this price point provide as much isolation while delivering quality audio in a closed-back design. These headphones perform remarkably well in both categories.
The two detachable cables (4ft and 11.5ft) that are included allow for flexible use in a variety of listening environments, whether using a portable music device or at a large desk.
Furthermore, the style and build of these headphones make them great for use by live sound engineers and DJs. Studio engineers or musicians may find them to be larger and heavier than standard studio headphones.
Sound
These Monoprice headphones deliver high volume levels from the large 50mm drivers.
The soundstage is clear and decently spacious for a closed-back headphone design, and the overall driver efficiency is good.
Low frequencies are produced with plenty of punch and depth. The mids are full and generally rich.
The only downside for this 108323 model is that the high frequencies can get lost in the mix depending on the style of music. Brilliance and sibilance are attenuated just enough to notice.
The overall audio response is not flat, but it is relatively warm and very listenable.
They might not be ultra-portable or audiophile quality, but with high noise isolation and great sounding audio for the price, the Monoprice 108323 headphones are definitely worth checking out.
They don’t win any points for style, compactness, or plush fit, but even a professional live sound engineer or DJ could benefit from having these as a backup set of cans.
For great sounding circumaural headphones with strong bass for less than $30, Monoprice 8323 are the best choice.
best sports: Anker SoundBuds Slim+
Anker SoundBuds Slim+ are perfect for all sports enthusiasts that love a reliable pair of wireless headphones.
Type: In-ear
Back design: Closed-back
Noise-cancelling: No
Connection: Wireless: Bluetooth
Should You Buy These?
If you’re looking for waterproof wireless earbuds you can use for your sweatiest workouts, then read on.
The Good
These IEMs are waterproof, so sweat doesn’t damage them.
Their lightweight and ergonomic design plus their soft ear tips make them itch-free to wear for hours. Easily your whole workout or a marathon.
The built-in mic is perfect for calls, and with the remote control, you can manage music as well.
Furthermore, the 7-hour battery life gives you enough time to do most of your weekly workouts.
The Bad
You don’t get the best battery life or the latest features for the price, but reliability makes it all better,
The Sound
The sound isn’t disappointing either. Their V-shaped frequency response is suitable for almost every music and especially for dynamic workout beats. You can enjoy it for all types of exercise.
The Verdict
These Bluetooth earbuds are above-average in comfort and durability. So if you’re in need of cheap headphones for sports, but you don’t want to spend too much money, you should definitely give Anker SoundBuds Slim+ a try.
The Best Headphones under $20
best under $20: Koss UR-20
Koss UR-20 are the best headphones under 20$. Below are the reasons why.
Type: Over-ear
Back design: Closed-back
Noise-cancelling: No
Connection: Wired, 3.5mm
Related: Best headphones under $20
Should You Buy These?
If you’re looking for dirt-cheap comfy over-ear headphones, then get Koss UR-20.
The Good
Softly padded earcups make them quite comfortable. Their large cups also fit adult ears. Their design is extremely lightweight, and the suspension headband doesn’t put too much pressure on top of your head.
You might expect they are poorly built since they are so cheap. And while these aren’t built like a tank, they hold up fine to everyday use. The entirely plastic design doesn’t have state of the art looks, but it performs well.
These are reliable and comfy over-ear headphones for under 20 dollars.
The Bad
There are no controls. Plus, they are made entirely of cheap plastic which looks cheap. They are not the most durable headphones, but all of that is reasonable because of the low price.
The Sound
Koss UR-20 have a somewhat balanced audio quality that’s suitable for all music genres. Overall it’s nothing special, but considering the price the averagely pleasant sound is an achievement.
But keep in mind they don’t have the best noise isolation, so listening to high volumes can bother people around you.
The Verdict
For the best over-ear headphones under $20, Koss UR-20 are the undisputable winner. For a dirt-cheap price, you get solid headphones perfect as a second pair or casual listening.
best buds under $20: KZ ZST
KZ ZST are the best earbuds under $20 at the moment.
Type: In-ear
Back design: Closed-back
Noise-cancelling: No
Connection: Wired, 3.5mm
Related: Best earbuds (in-ear) under $20
Should You Buy These?
If you’re looking for excellent earbuds with a marvelous audio quality for less than $20, get the KZ ZST.
The Good
The behind-the-ear fit is comfortable and stable, even for sports and memory wire provides a firm fit. But they aren’t sweatproof, so you shouldn’t use them for working out.
You only get silicone eartips but to get even better comfort and ambient noise isolation, get memory foam tips.
They are plastic and thus lightweight. That makes them great for long listening sessions. Plus, 1-button remote control and microphone enable you to make phone calls on the go.
The Bad
Because of their entirely plastic design, they don’t have the best durability (not sweatproof). But that’s normal for this price range.
The Sound
They have a V-shaped sound signature that’s fantastic for this price. It can easily compare to earbuds around $100. The bass is punchy and controlled, and highs have no problems with sibilance or harshness. Truly a budget audiophile in-ear monitors.
The Verdict
KZ ZST earphones offer the best value on the market (for under $20 buds) which makes them extremely popular with new audiophiles and the everyday user who wants the best for their money. A clear top choice.
What are the best headphones under 10 dollars? You won’t find over-ear or on-ear headphones, but you can get decent earbuds.
best under $10: Panasonic RP-HJE120
Panasonic RP-HJE120 are incredibly cheap and basic earbuds that just work.
Type: In-ear
Back design: Closed-back
Noise-cancelling: No
Connection: Wired, 3.5mm
Should You Buy These?
If you want the most popular and best-rated cheap earbuds on the planet, get these. You can find other earbuds under $10 here.
The Good
These earbuds have a lightweight and ergonomic design. It’s really comfortable and fits in perfectly to a variety of ear shapes. And due to lightweight, you will barely feel them, they are really comfy.
Furthermore, while they are cheap, they last a decent amount of time. Its plastic built isn’t top notch but much better than most similar alternatives.
Passive sound isolation is excellent too. Even if you’re listening to high volumes, they don’t leak much sound. So no one around is bothered by your music.
The Bad
No in-line microphone and controls (quite reasonable for the price range). But you can get a model with mic and remote for more money, over $10.
The Sound
Their sound signature is somewhat balanced. The lows are well-heard, slightly enhanced but can be muddy for some songs. Overall sound quality is about average, but still satisfying for most everyday listeners.
The Verdict
Panasonic RP-HJE120 are the best bang-for-buck earbuds at the moment. Their unbeatable value won’t be beaten for quite a while so get them before they stop making them.
More budget guides:
What are Cheap Headphones?
Cheap can mean a lot of different things for different people. But generally, budget-oriented headphones, even from big headphone brands start under $50.
This is why, for most people, inexpensive headphones usually cost less than 50 bucks. Now you might think that’s still a bit high for your taste, so you have more options (even cheaper) to choose from.
You can still get solid headphones for less than 30 bucks and even under 20 dollars for a real bargain. Just don’t expect the best brands because you won’t find them in this category.
What to Expect from Cheap Headphones?
Low-priced doesn’t have to mean bad quality.
All of the headphones recommended here provide more value than what the price suggests. Though there are a couple of things, you have to consider.
When you are spending less money on a pair of headphones the first and most common thing manufacturers save on is durability.
- Budget headphones usually have entirely plastic structure and don’t use any fancy or expensive materials, so you have to treat them right.
- Also, cheaper headphones don’t have as many features and accessories as pricier models. Most of the headphones come in an essential package with bare necessities.
- Older Bluetooth versions and smaller battery capacity are expected in wireless headphones. While this isn’t necessarily true every time, you shouldn’t expect the latest updates and best batteries when you’re spending less money.
- Many times, older models get a nice discount which makes them affordable. There’s nothing wrong with a previous model if it’s still competitive, especially with the new price. But that means you can’t expect the coolest design or bragging rights with it.
- Nonetheless, you don’t have to spend more money to get great sound. Since sound is the most crucial part of any headphones, all the models in this guide offer excellent sound quality for their price (meaning audio quality you can expect from headphones 2-3x the price).
What are Some of the Best Budget Headphone Brands?
Just like there are premium, high-end headphone brands there are some which specialize in making affordable headphones for a reasonable price.
Many cheap brands use generic headphones and plaster their logo on them, but some actually have their own development which adds more value.
While most companies are probably a combination of both here are some of the best budget headphone brands. Their headphones tend to be pretty good and very competitive in their pricing.
In random order…
- Monoprice is probably the best-known audiophile budget brand, offering over-ear and in-ear bargains.
- Koss is an old company with fantastic recognition among audiophiles; their retro on-ears have cult status.
- TaoTronics specialize in all types of cheap wireless headphones.
- KZ are a newer Chinese brand that made a following with their great sounding but cheap earbuds.
- MEE Audio offer competitive workout headphones for less money, you can choose wired and wireless.
- Mpow is one of the more successfully generic brands offering all types of headphones.
- Anker makes great wireless headphones and speakers as well as other consumer electronics.
Know of any other headphone brands that stand out in making inexpensive headphones? Let us know in the comments.
Shortcomings of Cheap Wireless Headphones
We tackled the possible issues of low-priced headphones above, but when it comes to wireless Bluetooth headphones, it pays to know a couple things.
The battery won’t last forever.
Since you’re paying little money, you’re not getting the best quality. And with batteries, this is painfully obvious.
A conservative expectation would be that the battery will last (have satisfactory capacity) for about 2 to 3 years. If you get more that’s great, but not a rule.
Bluetooth performance might be spotty.
Since you get short disruptions and loss of connection with high-end wireless headphones, it’s reasonable to expect it happens with budget models too. Though, we’ll do our best not to recommend headphones like that.
Audio quality might be lacking.
Bluetooth diminishes sound quality by converting it to digital format, and lots of development is put in fixing this problem (but isn’t fixed yet).
Additionally, since wireless circuitry costs more money, there’s less money left for drivers.
Generally, you can expect decent audio but don’t compare them to audiophile headphones.
Thank you for reading our guide. We hope it was helpful. Please let us know if we missed something, or something needs improvement. We really want your feedback.