Cheap headphones
Electronics of all kinds come with a huge variety of price tags, particularly personal tech such as earbuds and headphones.
With so many options out there, it’s possible to spend anywhere from $10-$1,000 for a new pair of headphones. However, just because you might be working on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality.
There are lots of high-quality headphone options available at affordable prices. Whether you’re looking for wireless, Bluetooth or noise-canceling features, a budget of $50 can get you everything you need.
What to consider what buying headphones
Noise-canceling
If you’re going to be using your headphones on public transport or in a busy office, you might want to consider those with noise-canceling or noise-reducing features to eliminate outside distractions.
Wireless
Many less expensive headphones are wired, but there are options out there for wireless headphones under $50.
Device compatibility
It’s a good idea to double-check that whatever set of headphones you purchase is going to be compatible with the phone, laptop or tablet you plan to use them with. Most headphones and devices use fairly universal connections for both wired sound and for charging.
Sound quality
Many mid-priced headphones come with exceptional sound quality. However, you may have to be flexible on the type of sound quality you expect with cheaper headphones.
Hardware quality
If you plan to carry your headphones around or frequently store them in a bag, it’s important to select a pair with durable wires, headbands and ear pads. Some headphones are more lightweight which can make the headband prone to snapping.
Portability
Another storage factor to keep in mind is headphone portability. Some are collapsible or foldable, which makes them easier to tuck away when they’re not in use.
Best headphones under $50
Panasonic Clip Headphone: available at Amazon
Our take: These wired over-ear headphones are built without a headband, making them easy to carry around and store.
What we like: These headphones have a comfortable fit for those who like the disconnected earpieces of earbuds but find them uncomfortable in the ear.
What we dislike: You can’t adjust the hooks for the earpieces which makes them difficult to keep on if the shape and size don’t suit your ears.
OneOdio Over-ear Headphone: available at Amazon
Our take: This is a sturdy pair of headphones built for great sound quality, especially bass.
What we like: These headphones offer excellent sound quality. The earphones are foldable to keep them safe from damage when stored in a bag.
What we dislike: The earphones are wired, so they’re not suitable if you’re looking for a wireless set.
Skullcandy Riff On-Ear Headphones: available at Amazon and Home Depot
Our take: Skullcandy headphones are known for exceptional sound quality at reasonable prices, as is the case with this Riff model.
What we like: These headphones are big and comfortable but they’re also very lightweight and foldable for easy storage.
What we dislike: Some users report that the band is a little flimsy and prone to breaking.
Philips HiFi Stereo Wired Headphone: available at Amazon
Our take: This is a great choice if sound quality is a top priority as the headphones produce high-resolution audio.
What we like: These headphones have extra cushioning for the ears so you can listen for as long as you like without discomfort.
What we dislike: The headband fit may be a little too wide for some, causing the headphones to slip off.
Sony ZX Series Wired On-Ear Headphones: available at Amazon, Home Depot and Kohl’s
Our take: With this pair of headphones, Sony aims to combine sound quality and comfort at an affordable price.
What we like: The adjustable headband length allows you to find the perfect fit.
What we dislike: The vinyl coating on the ear cushions may experience some wear and tear over time.
COWIN E7 Wireless Bluetooth Headphones: available at Amazon
Our take: This is a set of highly durable wireless headphones with a built-in microphone.
What we like: These headphones are compatible with all types of devices via Bluetooth for music, streaming and calls with 30 hours of battery time between charges.
What we dislike: Some users report that the headphones can be uncomfortable to wear for long periods of time as they clamp too close to the head.
Sony Noise Cancelling Headphones: available at Amazon and Kohl’s
Our take: These wired over-ear headphones have noise-canceling technology so you can enjoy your music or take your calls without distractions.
What we like: These headphones are very comfortable to wear for long periods of time, such as while traveling.
What we dislike: Many users reported that while the headphones did reduce noise, they do not completely cancel out ambient sound.
JLab Studio Pro Over-Ear Headphones: available at Amazon
Our take: These are fully adjustable over-ear headphones that stay put on your head, even during exercise.
What we like: The JLab Studio Pros have a built-in mic and a button on one earphone makes it easy to pause music, change tracks or answer calls on the go.
What we dislike: The volume cannot be controlled directly on the headphones, so they are not completely hands-free.
Artix CL750 Noise Isolating Headphones: available at Amazon
Our take: These headphones may be wired, but they are built with a mic, pause/play button and volume control so you don’t have to use your device to control your listening.
What we like: These headphones have an adjustable, foldable headband and soft cushioning for the ears.
What we dislike: The sound quality is not as robust as other makes and models.
iJoy ISO Wireless Stereo Headphones: available at Amazon
Our take: These are stylish, wireless Bluetooth headphones that can easily be wired if the battery runs low.
What we like: These headphones fully charge in 2.5 hours to provide 26 hours of play time.
What we dislike: Some users report muddy sound quality and static during wireless use.
Lauren Farrell is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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