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10 Best Affordable Headphones for 2026: Top Picks Under $100
If you’re looking for the best affordable headphones in 2026, you’ve come to the right place! With so many options flooding the market, finding headphones that balance cost, quality, and comfort can feel overwhelming. This article rounds up the top ten options available on Amazon that meet the criteria of being both budget-friendly and high-performing. Let’s get started on our journey to discover the best best affordable headphones!
1. Anker Soundcore Life Q20
Best for: Noise cancellation
The Anker Soundcore Life Q20 headphones have gained a loyal following due to their impressive features combined with a reasonable price tag. These over-ear headphones come equipped with hybrid active noise cancellation, which allows you to tune out distractions while you enjoy your music or podcasts.
With a playtime of up to 40 hours in noise-reduction mode, you won’t have to worry about charging them constantly. The headphones also feature 40mm dynamic drivers, producing rich bass and clear mids and highs. They are also designed to be comfortable, with memory foam ear cups for extended wear.
Pros:
- Effective noise cancellation
- Long battery life
- Comfortable design
Cons:
- Bulkier than some other models
- Sound might not appeal to audiophiles
−$10.00
- Incredible Sound Loved by 20 Million+ People
- Hi-Res Audio: Custom oversized 40 mm dynamic drivers produce Hi-Res sound. Life Q20 active noise canceling headphones reproduce music with extended high frequencies that reach up to 40 kHz for extraordinary clarity and detail.
- Reduce Ambient Noises By Up to 90%: Our team of engineers conducted more than 100,000 tests in real-life scenarios to fine-tune Life Q20’s 4 built-in ANC microphones and digital active noise cancellation algorithm. As a result, the hybrid active noise cancellation can detect and cancel out a wider range of low and mid-frequency noises such as cars and airplane engines.
- 100% Stronger Bass: Our exclusive BassUp technology conducts real-time analysis of the low frequencies to instantly strengthen the bass output. Double press the play button when listening to bass-heavy genres like EDM and hip-hop for an amplified listening experience.
- 60-Hour Playtime*: Up to 40 hours of non-stop playtime in wireless active noise cancellation mode (at 60% volume) is extended to an enormous 60 hours in standard music mode. A single charge gives you enough juice to listen to over 900 songs or soundtrack multiple long haul flights. And when you’re in a rush, charge Life Q20 active noise canceling headphones for 5 minutes and get 4 hours of listening.
2. Mpow 071 USB Headset
Best for: Office use
The Mpow 071 USB headset is a versatile wired option that is perfect for work-from-home scenarios or conference calls. These headphones feature an adjustable boom microphone that filters out background noise, allowing for clearer conversations.
They are equipped with both 3.5mm and USB connectors, making them compatible with a variety of devices. The soft ear pads and headband ensure that they are comfortable enough for long usage. Additionally, the in-line control allows users to adjust volume and mute the mic with ease.
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality for voice calls
- Dual connectivity options
- Soft and comfortable design
Cons:
- Wired connection may not appeal to everyone
- Limited use for non-work activities
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3. Taotronics SoundLiberty 92
Best for: True wireless experience
The Taotronics SoundLiberty 92 headphones are stylish, true wireless earbuds designed for convenience and portability. With a compact design and three sizes of silicone ear tips, they provide a snug fit that enhances sound isolation.
Battery life is another standout feature, with up to 30 hours of playtime when combined with the charging case. They also offer touch control for easy navigation without needing to pull out your device. The sound quality is surprisingly good, featuring 13mm drivers for balanced audio performance.
Pros:
- Stylish and comfortable design
- Long battery life
- Good sound quality for the price
Cons:
- Touch controls can be somewhat sensitive
- Limited noise isolation compared to over-ear models
−$30.00
- Reduce Noise By Up to 98.5%: Liberty 4 NC noise cancelling earbuds have a high sensitivity in-ear sound sensor, an oversized driver, and an innovative noise isolation chamber that cancels up to 98.5% of noise for peaceful travel.
- Noise Cancelling Adapts to Ears and Environments: Adaptive ANC 2.0 makes real-time calculations and adjusts to your ear canals and external environment for maximum quiet amongst the hustle and bustle.
- Crisp Sound with 3× More Detail: 11mm custom-tuned drivers deliver consistently crisp and detailed sound. Experience Hi-Res wireless audio and LDAC technology that transfers 3× more data than regular Bluetooth—bringing wireless music to life.
- Sculpt Your Sound Profile: Not everyone listens the same, so use HearID 2.0 to find the perfect sound profile for you. If you want to mix it up, the EQ is fully adjustable or choose from 22 presets to match your audio.
- Long-Lasting Battery Life: In normal mode, enjoy 10 hours of playback on a single charge or up to 50 hours with the case. With ANC on, get 8 hours between charges, extendable to 40 hours with the case.
4. JLab Audio JBuds Air
Best for: Budget-friendly wireless
The JLab Audio JBuds Air are designed to deliver an excellent sound experience without breaking the bank. These truly wireless earbuds come with three different EQ settings, allowing you to customize your listening experience based on what you’re listening to.
With a playtime of up to 24 hours, including the charging case, they provide reliable performance for various activities. The built-in microphone enhances call quality, making them great for on-the-go phone calls and podcasts.
Pros:
- Customizable sound with EQ settings
- Great battery life
- Comfortable fit for extended use
Cons:
- Base may be overpowering for some
- Case is somewhat bulky
−$6.00
- 🎶AUTO ON & CONNECT: The Go Pop+ True Wireless earbuds turn on and connect to each other automatically. Just take them out of their USB charging case for seamless, hassle-free connection. Then just connect the ear buds to your phone. Utilizing Bluetooth 5.3, this is our fastest handsfree connection yet
- 🤏 SMALLER FIT EARBUDS: Smaller than a credit card, the Go Pop+ buds case fits in your pocket and the Bluetooth earbuds are our smallest yet; 15% smaller and 40% lighter with the small case, than the Go Air wireless earphones. Ideal for the gym, sport or to carry while running. Try the three tip sizes to get a snug in ear headphones fit and creating a perfect seal for crystal clear sound
- 📱🔊 CUSTOM SOUND: Download the JLab app to tailor your listening experience further. Control touch functions, adjust Be Aware settings, and personalize sound preferences with EQ presets including JLab Signature, Balanced, or Bass Boost
- 🔋BATTERY LIFE: Listen for the long battery life with your wireless earphones; stay for the comfort. Go Pop+ features 9+ hours of playtime in each earbud and 26+ extra hours from the charging case. That’s 35+ hours of playtime with your bluetooth earphones
- 🗣️ BE AWARE MODE + GOOGLE FAST PAIR: Stay aware of your surroundings and let ambient noise in with Be Aware Mode for safe listening. Plus enjoy effortless pairing with an Android device and locate missing earbuds with Google Fast Pair
5. Skullcandy Riff Wireless
Best for: Casual listening
Skullcandy Riff Wireless headphones are built for casual listeners who want a fun, vibrant sound. With a unique design and flashy colors, these on-ear headphones stand out. They are lightweight and foldable, making them a great companion for travel.
Battery life stretches up to 12 hours, and they come equipped with a built-in microphone and controls. The sound profile leans towards a bass-heavy experience, perfect for pop and hip-hop enthusiasts.
Pros:
- Unique design and fun colors
- Lightweight and travel-friendly
- Good sound quality for casual use
Cons:
- Limited battery life compared to some competitors
- Might lack a balanced sound profile for critical listening
−$7.00
- UP TO 34 HOURS BATTERY + RAPID CHARGE. Listen to your music for days with up to 34 hours of battery life. With Rapid Charge, just 10 minutes of charging gives you 4 hours of listening
- CALL, TRACK AND VOLUME CONTROLS. Answer or reject calls, adjust volume, skip forward or repeat tracks with convenient button controls
- BUILT-IN TILE FINDING TECHNOLOGY. Find your headphones near and far when you register your product in the Tile App
- MULTIPOINT PAIRING. Connect to two devices at once with seamless transitions
- TRAVEL-READY. Flat-folding and collapsible design for enhanced headphone portability and convenience without sacrificing durability. Plus, an included 3.5mm AUX cable means you can plug in anytime, anywhere
6. TaoTronics SoundLiberty 92
Best for: Sports activities
For those who enjoy exercising while listening to music, the TaoTronics SoundLiberty 92 sound wireless earbuds are an excellent choice. These earbuds feature an IPX7 rating, making them resistant to sweat and moisture.
With a playtime of 36 hours and various ear tips for a secure fit, these earbuds ensure that they stay in place during your workouts. The sound quality is impressive for the price, with a rich bass and crisp highs tailored to energizing playlists.
Pros:
- Water-resistant design
- Secure fit for active use
- Extended battery life
Cons:
- Limited touch controls
- Slightly bulky design for true wireless
−$30.00
- Reduce Noise By Up to 98.5%: Liberty 4 NC noise cancelling earbuds have a high sensitivity in-ear sound sensor, an oversized driver, and an innovative noise isolation chamber that cancels up to 98.5% of noise for peaceful travel.
- Noise Cancelling Adapts to Ears and Environments: Adaptive ANC 2.0 makes real-time calculations and adjusts to your ear canals and external environment for maximum quiet amongst the hustle and bustle.
- Crisp Sound with 3× More Detail: 11mm custom-tuned drivers deliver consistently crisp and detailed sound. Experience Hi-Res wireless audio and LDAC technology that transfers 3× more data than regular Bluetooth—bringing wireless music to life.
- Sculpt Your Sound Profile: Not everyone listens the same, so use HearID 2.0 to find the perfect sound profile for you. If you want to mix it up, the EQ is fully adjustable or choose from 22 presets to match your audio.
- Long-Lasting Battery Life: In normal mode, enjoy 10 hours of playback on a single charge or up to 50 hours with the case. With ANC on, get 8 hours between charges, extendable to 40 hours with the case.
7. Sony WH-CH510
Best for: Voice clarity
The Sony WH-CH510 headphones are a great option for those looking for a blend of quality and affordability. These on-ear headphones offer impressive sound performance with deep bass and clear vocals, making them ideal for various listening preferences.
They feature up to 35 hours of battery life and a lightweight design for comfort. The built-in microphone supports voice assistants, making it easy to control your music or make calls hands-free.
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality
- Voice assistant integration
- Great battery life
Cons:
- On-ear design may not be comfortable for everyone
- Lacks active noise cancellation
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: With up to 50-hour battery life and quick charging, you’ll have enough power for multi-day road trips and long festival weekends. (USB Type-C Cable included)
- HIGH QUALITY SOUND: Great sound quality customizable to your music preference with EQ Custom on the Sony | Headphones Connect App.
- LIGHT & COMFORTABLE: The lightweight build and swivel earcups gently slip on and off, while the adjustable headband, cushion and soft ear pads give you all-day comfort.
- CRYSTAL CLEAR CALLS: A built-in microphone provides you with hands-free calling. No need to even take your phone from your pocket.
- MULTIPOINT CONNECTION: Quickly switch between two devices at once.
8. Sennheiser HD 280 Pro
Best for: Studio monitoring
The Sennheiser HD 280 Pro are closed-back, over-ear headphones designed for studio monitoring and professional use. They deliver an accurate sound profile that many audio professionals crave, providing clarity and detail across all frequencies.
These headphones offer excellent passive noise isolation, which is ideal for those who need to focus on their audio tasks. The cushioned ear pads deliver comfort for extended sessions, and they can even fold up for portability.
Pros:
- High-quality sound for professional use
- Excellent noise isolation
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Not the best option for casual listening
- Bulkier than some alternatives
- High ambient noise attenuation
- Accurate, linear sound reproduction
- Soft earpads for a comfortable fit
- Folding and rotating earcups for space-saving transport
- Tough, single-sided cable
9. Koss Porta Pro
Best for: Retro design
The Koss Porta Pro headphones offer a vintage look combined with modern sound quality. These lightweight, foldable on-ear headphones are known for their excellent bass response and clarity.
Equipped with comfort zone settings for a customized fit, they provide a unique listening experience. Their retro design is appealing to many, and they are well-suited for portable use.
Pros:
- Great sound quality for price
- Comfortable and adjustable fit
- Classic design
Cons:
- On-ear design may not be for everyone
- Sound may lack depth compared to over-ear models
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10. JBL Tune 500BT
Best for: Wireless convenience
The JBL Tune 500BT headphones are known for their excellent sound quality and wireless convenience. Featuring JBL’s signature sound, they deliver powerful bass and clear highs, making them a fantastic choice for music fans.
With a battery life of up to 16 hours, they allow for extended use without frequent charging. The foldable design is ideal for travel, and voice assistant support makes multitasking a breeze.
Pros:
- Good sound quality
- Impressive battery life
- Portable and convenient design
Cons:
- Could use better noise isolation
- Not robust enough for heavy abuse
- Wireless Freedom: Enjoy seamless connectivity with Bluetooth 4.0, offering a range of up to 10 meters
- Multi-Point Connection: Pair with two devices simultaneously and switch between them effortlessly
- Extended Playtime: Powered by a rechargeable battery, enjoy up to 16 hours of wireless playtime
- Comfortable Listening: Lightweight and ergonomic design with plush ear cushions for all-day comfort
- Hands-Free Calls: Built-in microphone for clear calls and voice assistant interaction
Buying Guide: Best Affordable Headphones
When searching for affordable headphones, it’s important to consider various factors to ensure you get the best value for your money. Here’s a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the right pair.
1. Types of Headphones
- Over-Ear: Great for sound isolation, comfortable for long listening sessions. Ideal for home use.
- On-Ear: Compact and lightweight, providing a balance of portability and decent sound quality.
- In-Ear (Earbuds): Highly portable and great for on-the-go use. Look for a snug fit for optimal sound and comfort.
2. Sound Quality
- Frequency Response: Look for a broad frequency response to cover the full spectrum of sound. Aim for a range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz for general use.
- Drivers: Larger drivers usually produce better sound. Look for headphones with at least 30mm drivers for on-ear and over-ear styles.
3. Comfort and Fit
- Padding: Look for headphones with cushioned ear pads for comfort during extended use.
- Weight: Lightweight headphones will be more comfortable for long listening sessions.
- Adjustability: Check for adjustable headbands to ensure a snug fit without discomfort.
4. Battery Life (for Wireless Headphones)
- If you opt for wireless options, consider the battery life. Look for headphones that offer at least 15-20 hours of playback on a single charge.
5. Connectivity
- Wired: Offers stable connections and not reliant on battery life.
- Wireless: Look for Bluetooth capabilities and ease of pairing. Check Bluetooth version for better efficiency and range.
6. Durability and Build Quality
- Look for materials that can withstand daily wear and tear. Metal or high-quality plastic construction is preferable.
- Foldable designs can enhance portability and protect against damage.
7. Additional Features
- Noise Isolation: Essential for blocking out external noise, especially if you’re in a noisy environment.
- Microphone: If you plan to use headphones for calls, ensure they have a quality built-in microphone.
- Control Buttons: Volume and playback controls can enhance convenience for wired or wireless headphones.
8. Brand Reputation and Reviews
- Opt for brands known for delivering quality headphones within your budget.
- Reading user reviews online can provide insight into performance and long-term reliability.
9. Budget
- Set a clear budget range. Affordable headphones typically range from $20 to $100. Determine the features most important to you before shopping.
10. Where to Buy
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, Best Buy, and Newegg often have competitive prices and user reviews.
- Physical Stores: Visit local electronics stores to test headphones before purchasing.
Conclusion
Finding affordable headphones doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By considering sound quality, comfort, durability, and additional features, you can find the perfect pair within your budget. Always compare products, read reviews, and assess your personal requirements before making a purchase. Happy listening!
