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9 Best Headphones under $200 in 2023

Last updated: 2 months ago
9 min read

Here are the best headphones under $200 you can get in 2023.

In this guide, you will find the best headphones and earbuds in this price range, wired, wireless & true wireless earbuds.

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Here’s a quick rundown of all models:

Rating Price Connection Mic & Controls More info
AKG K371 Best wired
AKG K371
4.4
Under $150
Wired 3.5mm
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Jaybird Vista 2 Best true wireless
Jaybird Vista 2 small image
4.0
Under $200
Bluetooth 5.2
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Edifier WH950NB Most feature-rich
Edifier WH950NB
4.6
Under $180
Bluetooth 5.3
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Sennheiser HD 560 S Best neutral
Sennheiser HD 560 S
4.8
Under $200
Wired 3.5mm & 6.3mm
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4.6
Under $180
Bluetooth 5.3
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Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT Best all-around
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT wireless headphones
4.6
Under $180
Bluetooth 5.0
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Razer Opus Best gaming
Razer Opus wireless headphones
4.3
Under $150
Bluetooth 5.0
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TOZO Golden X1 Best features
TOZO Golden X1 small
4.7
Under $150
Bluetooth 5.3
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Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO Best for studio
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro wired headphones
4.7
Under $160
Wired 3.5mm
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Are Headphones Under $200 Worth It?

To some, 200 dollars is a lot, and spending that amount can be hard to swallow. However, by buying a headphone at this price point, you get a reliable pair that will serve you for many years.

It’s a good investment that you won’t regret. And if you want to further improve your headphone’s performance, pick audio devices like amps and DACs instead.

  • Great value: In headphones under $200, you can expect an excellent price-to-performance ratio. You will find one of the most popular headphones on the market. Some models are even that good they use them in professional studios.
  • Improved sound quality: If you’re new to high-end audio, you’ll be diving into a whole new dimension of music.  This is where entry-level audiophile headphones start. Music sounds clearer and more detailed than before. You might end up loving your new headphone so much, they might be your last. Or, they could become a reason for discovering other, more expensive options.
  • You’re getting a noticeable boost in build quality: You start seeing premium materials like aluminum and stainless steel.
  • Useful technologies that make your life easier: Many wireless headphones under $200 have additional features like active noise cancellation and companion apps.

Here we compare headphones under $200 with cheaper and pricier alternatives.

CONTENTS (show more)

    The Best Headphones Under $200

    1. AKG K371

    wired BEST WIRED HEADPHONES UNDER $200
    AKG K371 on a DJ table

    Excellent sounding over-ear headphones under $200 for everyday use with Harman target tuning. Others will have a hard time overtaking the top spot.

    Connection icon Connection: Wired 3.5mm
    Driver size icon Driver size: 50mm
    Frequency range icon Frequency range: 5-40.000Hz
    Type: Over-ear | Back design: Closed-back | Noise cancelling: No | Mic & Controls: No | Impedance: 32 Ohm | Weight: 8.9oz (255g) | Cable length: 1.2m & 3m | Features: Removable cable, mini-XLR connector, foldable
    • Great sound quality
    • Comfortable earpads
    • Foldable design
    • Good build quality
    • Detachable cable
    • … with proprietary connector
    • Might be too bassy/warm for audio purists

    Headphones very closely follow the Harman curve target, with a smidge of bass boost. As a result, they sound great and are a fine choice for most listeners. Due to the closed-back design, they’re suitable for outdoor use, as well.

    If you want more affordable headphones with a more neutral presentation, pick AKG K361 instead.

    The AKG K371 have a unique design with clean lines that looks very minimalistic. Thanks to foldable earcups, their portable design is suitable for commuting as well.

    They’re made mostly from metal, which adds to the quality feel. Comfortable ear pads are super plush and ready for extended listening sessions, even if you wear glasses.

    Like other PRO headphones in the AKG lineup, the K371 also uses a removable coiled cable with a mini-XLR port.

    For a slightly higher price, you can also pick the AKG K371-BT with Bluetooth connectivity.

    2. Jaybird Vista 2

    true-wireless BEST TRUE WIRELESS HEADPHONES UNDER $200
    Jaybird Vista 2 on the ground

    Impressive sports earbuds with a durable design and excellent stability.

    Jaybird Vista 2 review

    Connection icon Connection: Bluetooth 5.0
    Driver size icon Driver size: 6mm
    Frequency range icon Frequency range: 20-20.000Hz
    Type: True wireless | Battery life: 8h + 16h in case | Wireless range: 33ft (10m) | Noise cancelling: Yes | Charging: 2h + quick charge – USB-C & Qi wireless charging | Mic & Controls: Yes | Bluetooth codecs: SBC, AAC | Water resistance: IP68 (IP54 on case) | Features: Ambient mode, mono mode, EQ
    • Great sound for all music genres you can fully customize with EQ & presets
    • They stay comfy and stable in your ears during activity, even when sweaty
    • Can easily survive dust AND water, even submerging
    • 8-hour+ battery provides convenience without worrying about charging
    • Fully customize the earbuds to fit your needs in the companion app
    • Removes background noise with ANC so you can focus on the workout
    • Occasional connection stutters
    • Annoying errors during firmware updates

    Hear the Jaybird Vista 2 A/B Sound Test:

    Jaybird Vista 2 Sound Quality Test – HeadphonesAddict

    Audio quality is great out of the box, and it gets even better once you tweak it in the mobile app. You can fiddle with the EQ settings to find your perfect balance of bass, mids, and highs.

    Jaybird Vista 2 true wireless earbuds provide excellent comfort and stability thanks to ear fins that latch onto your ears.

    Vista 2 are also the new standard of durability. They boast an IP68 rating, meaning you can completely submerge them. The case also holds an IP54 rating. They’re one of the best waterproof Bluetooth headphones.

    These are also the first true wireless earbuds that come with a MIL-STD-810G military standard, ensuring drop and shock protection.

    Playtime is more reliable this time around, with an 8-hour battery life that should be enough for a lengthy workout. Another 16 hours are waiting in the Qi wireless charging case. You can further extend it using only one bud with mono mode.

    Also check:

    Best sport headphones

    Best waterproof headphones for swimming

    3. Edifier WH950NB

    trophy MOST FEATURE-RICH HEADPHONES UNDER $200
    Edifier WH950NB headphones with a laptop

    Wireless over-ears with great noise cancellation and superb microphone performance.

    Edifier WH950NB review

    Connection icon Connection: Bluetooth 5.3
    Driver size icon Driver size: 40mm dynamic
    Frequency range icon Frequency range: 20-40.000Hz
    Type: Over-ear | Battery life: 34h (with ANC) | Wireless range: 45 feet (13.7 meters) | Noise cancelling: Yes | Charging: 1.5h – quick charge – USB-C | Mic & Controls: Yes | Bluetooth codecs: SBC, AAC, LDAC | Water resistance: None | Features: Multipoint, ANC, app, custom EQ, Google Pair
    • Clear sound quality with natural bass response
    • Comfortable design with memory foam earpads
    • Great active noise cancellation that rivals the best
    • Fairly durable build quality with hard-shell carrying case
    • Overwhelming number of features
    • Limiting custom EQ settings
    • Ineffective Game Mode

    Hear the Edifier WH950NB A/B Sound Test:

    Edifier WH950NB Sound Quality Test – HeadphonesAddict

    WH950NB output a clear, balanced sound with some peaks and dips along the way. The latter will only matter to audio purists, whereas casual listeners will enjoy headphones’ ability to play all music genres equally well.

    These headphones are an excellent overall package. They have above-average active noise cancellation and good ambient sound mode. It doesn’t end there.

    You can activate LDAC for high-res audio support, Bluetooth 5.3 ensures robust connection, and with multipoint, they can connect to two devices simultaneously.

    Furthermore, their microphone quality outshines even the best Bluetooth headphones, and they can also charge really fast with up to 7 extra hours after just 10 minutes.

    4. Sennheiser HD 560 S

    trophy BEST NEUTRAL HEADPHONES UNDER $200
    Sennheiser HD 560 S

    Best headphones under $200 from Sennheiser, offering tons of value for people seeking a spacious and neutral option.

    Connection icon Connection: Wired – 6.3mm
    Driver size icon Driver size: n/a
    Frequency range icon Frequency range: 6-38.000Hz
    Type: Over-ear | Back design: Open-back | Noise cancelling: No | Mic & Controls: No | Impedance: 120 Ohm | Weight: 8.46 oz (260g) | Cable length: n/a | Features: E.A.R. tech
    • Exceptional neutral sound
    • Comfortable
    • Big soundstage
    • Velour earpads
    • Detachable cable
    • Can get sibilant at times

    HD 560 S have a fairly neutral frequency response with a hint of warmness and a slightly brighter treble. They’re a great pick for studio use, too.

    While that can cause some sibilance, the detail retrieval and soundstage are excellent.

    They follow a similar form factor as other HD models below the $200 price point. These are mostly plastic headphones with metallic mesh to protect the drivers (headphones come in an open-back design).

    The most comfortable headphones on this list have earpads that go around your entire ears, providing superb comfort for long listening sessions.

    You get them in velour, which helps with breathability but can also leak some sound.

    The audio cable is quite long and of decent quality. If it ever breaks, you can quickly replace it with a new one.

    Find more excellent open-back headphones.

    5. Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro

    trophy BEST HEADPHONES FROM SAMSUNG UNDER $200
    Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro wireless earbuds

    The best headphones under $200 from Samsung. They offer superb sound quality and ergonomics for the price.

    Connection icon Connection: Bluetooth 5.3
    Driver size icon Driver size: Dual dynamic drivers (subwoofer & tweeter)
    Frequency range icon Frequency range: n/a
    Type: True wireless | Battery life: 8h + 21h (without ANC) | Wireless range: 33ft (10 meters) | Noise cancelling: Yes | Charging: Quick charge – USB-C & Qi wireless | Mic & Controls: Yes | Bluetooth codecs: SBC, AAC, Scalable Codec | Water resistance: IPX7 | Features: 360 Audio, SmartThings Find
    • Balanced sound that works with all music genres
    • Comfortable and stable fit
    • Improved active noise cancellation over their predecessor
    • Waterproof design with an IPX7 rating
    • Lots of features to play around …
    • … but most are reserved for Samsung users only
    • Battery life of 5 hours per charge (with ANC) is only O.K.

    Like the first-gen Buds Pro, the Buds2 Pro earbuds closely follow the Harman curve with a slightly boosted bass and more energy in the treble.

    Overall, their tuning works wonderfully with most musical genres. They’re a good deal for everything from rock to hip-hop.

    The design is modern and minimalistic, with an understated matte exterior. To get the most out of Galaxy Buds2 Pro, you have to use them with a Samsung phone. From there, you can control 360° audio, ambient sound mode, and ANC.

    The latter is improved over the first gen, and it will do its job pretty well. Apart from excellent ergonomics, earbuds are also fully waterproof (IPX7 rating).

    6. Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2

    trophy BEST ALL-AROUND HEADPHONES UNDER $200
    Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT wireless headphones

    Second-gen Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 now offer multipoint, cleaner call quality, and LDAC codec. They’re still one of the most popular over-ear headphones under $200.

    Connection icon Connection: Bluetooth 5.0
    Driver size icon Driver size: 45mm dynamic
    Frequency range icon Frequency range: 15-28.000Hz
    Type: Over-ear | Battery life: 40h | Wireless range: 33ft (10m) | Noise cancelling: No | Charging: 3.5h – quick charge – USB-C | Mic & Controls: Yes | Bluetooth codecs: SBC, AAC, LDAC | Water resistance: None | Features: Multipoint, foldable
    • Fun, V-shaped sound
    • Good build quality with foldable hinges
    • Multipoint support
    • Long battery life (40h)
    • Comfort could be better

    Audio-Technica included both AAC and LDAC among the Bluetooth codec support so that you can expect excellent audio on both Android and iOS.

    Speaking of audio, these headphones are V-shaped, with punchy low frequencies and crispy highs. They’re enjoyable to listen to while also packing a lot of details.

    The plastic build doesn’t scream rigidness, but it can survive quite a bit of abuse. These closed-back headphones are made for the studio, where they get tossed around a lot.

    However, the new wireless Bluetooth headphones support wireless connection and are more suitable for commuters and office workers who don’t like wires. The battery can hold up to 40 hours of playtime.

    More similar guides:

    Best open-back headphones

    Best audiophile headphones

    Best studio headphones

    Check the best bass headphones for more options.

    7. Razer Opus

    trophy BEST UNDER $200 FOR GAMING
    Razer Opus wireless headphones

    It’s not often that Razer surprises us with well-balanced, detailed noise cancelling headphones for gamers and commuters alike.

    Connection icon Connection: Bluetooth / 3.5mm
    Driver size icon Driver size: 40mm
    Frequency range icon Frequency range: 20-20.000Hz
    Type: Over-ear | Battery life: 25h (with ANC) | Wireless range: n/a | Noise cancelling: Yes | Charging: Quick charge – USB-C | Mic & Controls: Yes | Bluetooth codecs: SBC, AAC, aptX | Water resistance: No | Features: Quick Attention Mode, THX certified, EQ
    • Balanced, detailed sound
    • THX certified for better in-game effects
    • Good ANC performance
    • No custom EQ

    Opus active noise-cancelling headphones have a surprisingly balanced sound signature with a slight bump in the sub-bass to bring out the rumble. 

    For better positional accuracy, you can activate the Enhanced Clarity sound profile, which boosts the highs and in-game details.

    Opus pack some exciting features. One of which is active noise cancelling, which works pretty well at blocking background noise.

    Razer also includes EQ presets that they made in collaboration with THX. These presets are geared toward gaming since they amplify specific sounds like speech, footsteps, and game effects.

    If you plan to commute with these, you can also enable Ambient Awareness to amplify your surroundings. You can connect the headphones wirelessly or wired.

    Also, the built-in microphone performs quite well for phone calls, even in louder environments. For easier transport, there’s an included carrying case in the box.

    For noise cancellation for a lower price, the best budget noise cancelling headphones are worth checking out.

    8. TOZO Golden X1

    weights HEADPHONES UNDER $200 WITH THE BEST FEATURES
    TOZO Golden X1 earbuds

    One of the best true wireless headphones under $200 for audio lovers with a natural sound signature.

    TOZO Golden X1 review

    Connection icon Connection: Bluetooth 5.3
    Driver size icon Driver size: 12mm dynamic & BA
    Frequency range icon Frequency range: 12-41.100Hz
    Type: True wireless | Battery life: 5h + 24h (with ANC) | Wireless range: 40 feet (12.2m) | Noise cancelling: Yes | Charging: 2h – USB-C & Qi wireless | Mic & Controls: Yes | Bluetooth codecs: SBC, AAC, LDAC | Water resistance: IPX6 | Features: Custom EQ, multipoint
    • Excellent sound quality for the price, with smooth, natural tuning
    • Comfortable fit despite their extra weight
    • Bluetooth multipoint for connecting to 2 devices simultaneously
    • Good ambient sound mode performance
    • … but it randomly stops working
    • ANC only works effectively with lower frequencies
    • Battery life below 5 hours per charge (with ANC)

    Hear the TOZO Golden X1 A/B Sound Test:

    TOZO Golden X1 Sound Quality Test – HeadphonesAddict

    TOZO Golden X1 have a U-shaped sound that’s still pretty faithful to the original. By lowering the bass and treble, you get a very balanced sound that any audio lover will enjoy.

    Inside the app, you can customize controls, sound, and even ANC. The latter is overall decent and works best with lower frequencies. Even ambient sound mode isn’t mindblowing, but it does the job.

    Earbuds have an IPX6 rating, which means you can theoretically take them under the shower. While they have some weight, which makes them a poor pick for stability, they remain comfy during longer listening sessions.

    Battery life is about average as it can only endure around 5 hours on a single charge and have extra 24 hours inside the Qi wireless and fast charging case.

    To ensure the best fit, earbuds come with 6 different sizes of ear tips.

    Looking for something bassier instead? Check best bass earbuds.

    9. Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO

    wired BEST UNDER $200 FOR STUDIO
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro wired headphones

    These open-back headphones are the only tool you need in your studio. They’re great for both casual listening and mixing.

    Connection icon Connection: Wired – 3.5mm & 6.3mm
    Driver size icon Driver size: n/a
    Frequency range icon Frequency range: 5-35.000Hz
    Type: Over-ear | Back design: Open-back | Noise cancelling: No | Mic & Controls: No | Impedance: 250 Ohm | Weight: 8.8 oz (250g) | Cable lenght: 118 inch (3m) | Features: /
    • Robust build, made in Germany
    • Very detailed sound
    • Non-detachable cable
    • Bright sound can get sibilant

    With this great pair of headphones, it’s all about detail and how to recognize flaws in the audio content. Their studio-quality sound is suitable for both casual and professional use.

    Thanks to the boosted treble, they have a wide stereo image. The latter does introduce some sibilance.

    Over-ear headphones are made of hard plastic earcups and a leather-padded steel-reinforced headband.

    To ensure optimal comfort for long sessions in studio, over-ear design earpads have a thick layer of velour-covered foam. The latter also provides breathability, preventing any heat from staying trapped in the ear cup.

    If you plan to use these in the studio, you’ll be happy to know that while the cable is non-removable, it’s thick and durable.

    Honorable Mentions

    Jabra Elite 7 Pro

    Jabra Elite 7 Pro out of case

    Still one of the best headphones under $200 for commuters and students, with an ergonomic fit and a balanced sound signature.

    They can endure over 8 hours on a single charge and have extra 22 hours inside the Qi wireless and fast charging case.

    Jabra Elite 7 Pro review

    Sennheiser HD 599

    Sennheiser HD 599 wired headphones

    If you want the best headphones under $200 for music, HD 599 are the way to go. They’re perfect for diving into the audio world.

    Be aware that because of their open-back design, ambient background noises can quickly ruin the listening experience.

    Check HD 599 price

    Philips Fidelio X2HR

    Philips Fidelio X2HR wired headphones

    Philips Fidelio X2HR are incredibly successful open-back headphones under $200, with many users praising their excellent sound quality and comfort.

    The latter is due to their comfy velour earpads that ensure breathability.

    Check Fidelio X2HR price

    Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO

    Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 250ohm

    Excellent studio headphones under $200 with closed-back ear cups for increased passive noise isolation capability and velour pads for superb comfort.

    Dynamic drivers output a brighter sound signature with a good stereo image. They work great for studio use and music production.

    Check DT 770 PRO price

    Samsung Galaxy Buds Plus

    Samsung Galaxy Buds+ charging earbuds

    True wireless earbuds with ergonomic and lightweight housing, accompanied by good audio reproduction. Their charging case even supports wireless charging.

    They come with an impressive 11 hours of playback time on a single charge. Sadly, there is no active noise cancelling feature.

    Samsung Galaxy Buds Plus review

    V-MODA Crossfade LP2

    V-Moda Crossfade LP2

    Great over-ear headphones for listening to music, with extremely robust construction and comfy memory foam ear pads.

    With them, you also get a durable hardshell travel case.

    Check Crossfade LP2 price

    Skullcandy Crusher Evo

    Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless headphones

    Best headphones under $200 for emphasized bass response. There is even a physical slider to increase or decrease the low end.

    Despite their all-plastic construction, headphones feel quite sturdy.

    Check Crusher Evo price

    Want more options for less money? Check the best cheap headphones.

    What Are The Best Headphones For Everyday Use?

    That highly depends on your preferences. In general, if you’re solely listening to music, anyone will do, as long as they’re closed-back. This type of headphones can offer:

    • Isolation is much better due to closed ear cups. There is much less ambient noise coming inside, which lets you fully concentrate on your music. Also, headphones sound leakage is kept in check.
    • Active noise canceling can’t work with open-back ear cups, meaning that this technology only makes sense on closed headphones.
    • Deeper bass is something that a specific user base looks for in headphones. The latter is easier to achieve when you have a closed space for frequencies to resonate.

    If you don’t mind the lack of noise cancelation, or even passive noise isolation itself, and just want to enjoy long listening sessions in the comfort of your home, open-back headphones might be a better idea. You get:

    • Bigger soundstage is a result of an open back that doesn’t trap the sound inside an ear cup. It pushes the sound further away from your head to create a truly unique experience.
    • Better sound quality due to open design, which prevents distortion and makes the sound more airy and natural. there is a reason why the best headphones don’t have closed-ear cups.
    • Mixing with open studio headphones is delightful, especially if you pick a truly neutral pair. The lack of distortion helps you to find small errors in the mix that would otherwise pass through.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

    What is a good price for headphones?

    Anything between $100-$500 is a worthwhile investment. After that point, you’re only paying for luxury materials and marginal improvements in sound quality.

    It depends on how good you want your headphones to sound and how many features you want them to have. For wireless headphones, there’s no need to go over $400.

    Should I spend $200 on headphones?

    Quality comes at a cost, especially if you also want extra features or great build quality. The $200 price tag is a great start when diving into the audiophile world. Of course, there are great-sounding headphones for under $100, but the ones under $200 truly do sound better.

    Are wireless headphones better than wired?

    $200 is a price point where wired and wireless technology starts to matter less and less. Regardless of what your preferences are, both technologies can deliver equal audio performance.

    Wireless

    • Codecs don’t matter anymore. Some might argue that wireless headphones, using Bluetooth codecs, can’t play frequencies over 16kHz, therefore ruining the listening experience. While that is true for AAC, in reality, this isn’t as perceivable as you might think. Also, the majority of codecs support frequency ranges up to 20kHz and can offer high bitrate speeds that excel the ones from audio codecs like mp3.
    • They’re perfect for commuting since you don’t have to bother with dangling wires. Too often the cable gets stuck on a door handle or armrest, violently pulling headphones off your ears. That worries are gone if there are no cables to being with.

    Wired

    • On the other hand, wired ones are fool-proof and work every time.
    • Their performance highly depends on the source. By upgrading the source quality, you can also upgrade the audio quality, which is a real beauty of wired headphones.

    Considering affordable earbuds?

    Best true wireless earbuds under $100

    Best true wireless earbuds under $50

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