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10 Best Affordable On Ear Headphones for Exceptional Quality in 2026
Finding the best affordable on-ear headphones can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available on Amazon. Fortunately, we’ve narrowed down the list to the top 10 most budget-friendly on-ear headphones that deliver quality sound without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for headphones for casual listening, workouts, or work-from-home, this guide will help you find the perfect pair. As of 2026, our list focuses on the best value for money while ensuring that sound quality, comfort, and durability are not compromised.
1. TaoTronics SoundLiberty 92
TaoTronics has built a solid reputation for providing excellent audio products at budget prices. The SoundLiberty 92 on-ear headphones are no exception; they offer a great mix of comfort and sound quality. With Bluetooth 5.0, these headphones promise fast connectivity and good range.
Features of the TaoTronics SoundLiberty 92 include:
- Up to 40 hours of battery life
- Touch control for easy navigation
- IPX4 water resistance
- Built-in microphone for calls
Pros:
- Great sound quality with deep bass
- Comfortable fit for long periods
- Very affordable for the features
Cons:
- Touch controls can be sensitive
- Noise cancellation isn’t the best
- 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.
2. JBL Tune 500BT
If you’re looking for a lightweight and comfortable pair of headphones, the JBL Tune 500BT might be just what you need. Known for its powerful sound and solid battery life, this model is perfect for users who value portability.
Features:
- Wireless Bluetooth streaming
- 16 hours of battery life
- Hands-free calls with a built-in microphone
- Multi-point connectivity
Pros:
- Good battery life for its size
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear
- JBL’s signature sound with impressive bass
Cons:
- Plastic construction feels a bit flimsy
- Limited adjustment options for fit
- 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
3. Anker Soundcore Life Q20
Anker’s Soundcore brand has earned respect for producing high-quality audio equipment. The Soundcore Life Q20 headphones are well-built, feature noise cancellation, and provide great value for their price.
Features:
- Hybrid active noise cancellation
- 40-hour playtime
- Custom 40mm dynamic drivers
- Foldable design
Pros:
- Exceptional noise cancellation for the price
- Good battery life
- Comfortable padding
Cons:
- Bulky design may not suit everyone
- Bass may be overpowering for some users
- 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.
4. Mpow 071 USB Headset
The Mpow 071 USB Headset is particularly ideal for work-from-home scenarios. It is compatible with most devices and offers impressive sound quality along with a comfortable design.
Features:
- Noise-canceling mic
- Compatible with various platforms (PC, Mac, mobile)
- Volume control and mute button
- Lightweight design
Pros:
- Excellent microphone quality for calls
- Comfortable for long use
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Wired connection can be less convenient
- Sound quality may not satisfy audiophiles
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5. Sennheiser HD 598 SR
The Sennheiser HD 598 SR is a bit of a splurge but remains affordable relative to the quality it delivers. These on-ear headphones are known for comfort and superior sound.
Features:
- Open-back design for natural sound
- Velour ear pads for comfort
- 3.5mm and 6.3mm audio connectors
- 50mm drivers
Pros:
- Exceptional audio quality
- Comfortable for long listening sessions
- Durable design
Cons:
- Open-back design is not suitable for noisy environments
- Higher price compared to others on the list
- Audiophile-Grade Open-Back Sound: Enjoy natural, balanced audio with a spacious soundstage for an immersive listening experience with Sennheiser open back headphones
- Exceptional Clarity & Detail: These Sennheiser wired headphones capture every note with precise highs, rich mids, and controlled bass, perfect for classical, acoustic, and high-fidelity listening and audiophiles
- Luxurious Comfort: Lightweight design of Sennheiser headphones wired with plush velour-covered ear pads ensures all-day listening without fatigue
- Versatile Device Compatibility: Works seamlessly with phones, tablets, computers, and most audio devices and as gaming headsets
- Detachable Cable Convenience: This over ear headphones wired style includes a 3-meter 6.3mm cable and 1.2-meter 3.5mm cable for flexible connectivity
6. Skullcandy Riff Wireless
Skullcandy is a well-known brand that often provides affordable yet stylish headphones. The Riff Wireless model offers buoyant sound and ease of use.
Features:
- Bluetooth wireless technology
- 12 hours of battery life
- Built-in microphone for calls
- Quick charging capabilities
Pros:
- Fashionable design and colors
- Decent sound quality for casual listening
- Fast charging feature
Cons:
- Limited battery life compared to competitors
- May feel less comfortable for extended use
- 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
7. SoundMAGIC ES18S
For those who prefer a wired option, the SoundMAGIC ES18S on-ear headphones provide excellent audio quality with a budget-friendly price tag.
Features:
- 3.5mm jack with a built-in mic
- Lightweight and ergonomic design
- Excellent sound isolation
- Tangle-free cable
Pros:
- Exceptional audio clarity
- Lightweight for easy portability
- Inexpensive compared to sound quality
Cons:
- Wired connection may not be convenient for everyone
- Limited features compared to wireless options
- 🎧Superb Sound: Providing refined and accurate sound from redesigned 10mm dynamic drivers, SoundMAGIC E80D iem earphone delivers a balanced sound image with extended transparent detail and warm, textured bass.
- 🎧Elegant Aluminium Housing: Completely crafted from aluminum in a high-precision cutting process and finished with a unique hand painting process, the lightweight and robust housing of the E80D earbud displays a delicate texture with refined and elegant appearance.
- 🎧Powerful DAC Chip For High-res Audio: E80D USB-C headphones built-in high-quality DAC chip, that reduces the loss in sound transfer. Delivers premium sound with fine-tuned acoustics that balance strong bass, soaring highs, and clear mids, bringing you the perfect music enjoyment.
- 🎧Precision Cable With Fully Featured Remote And Mic: The type-c earbuds headphone features a tangle-resistant copper cable to deliver the best possible signal, ensuring no loss of quality as the signal is converted to high resolution sound.3-button remote control, easy to control music and calls. The built-in high quality microphone allows you to answer hands-free calls and end calls during exercise and travel.
- 🎧Comfortable In-Ear Fit And Good Noise Isolation: The E80D Type C in-ear headphones combine ergonomically angled sound tubes with an in-ear fit that seals the ear canal totally with soft silicone eartips to provide a secure fit that not only isolates outside noise really well but ensures you hear their full sonic spectrum – and then you’re treated to a well-balanced, entertaining, energetic sound.
8. Cowin E7 Pro
The Cowin E7 Pro headphones are an affordable choice for those who want both noise cancellation and high-quality audio without spending a fortune.
Features:
- Active noise cancellation
- Up to 30 hours of battery life
- Deep bass and clear sound reproduction
- Comfortable ear cushions
Pros:
- Effective noise cancellation
- Good sound quality
- Reasonably priced for the features
Cons:
- Some users report a tight fit
- Slightly bulky design
- Active Noise Cancelling ANC: Advanced ANC technology significantly reduce aviation, crowded and noisy environment. Get away from distracting sounds, and immerse yourself into your ideal music, movies, audiobooks or videos. You can finally listen to what you want to hear and focus on YOU! The noise cancelling feature operates smoothly in both wired and wireless modes.
- Custom 45mm Large Aperture Drivers: Make the world sound better has always been the central focal point of our audio engineering. Our Custom 45mm powerful drivers of this noise cancelling headphone produce superior sounds with crystal crisp clarity with a well-balanced deep bass response for any type of music you love.
- Premium Built-in Microphone and Bluetooth 5.0 Technology: By quick-simple pairing with your Bluetooth-enabled devices, the headset then has a stable Bluetooth connection. Efficient stable Bluetooth connection with a high-quality built-in microphone gives you true wireless freedom for all your calls. Making it possible to have clear sounds during your hands-free conversations. These features are a real GAME CHANGER!
- Light Weight and All-day Comfort: With Natural protein earpads, you will be able to experience marshmallow like softness texture on the headband and ear cushions. The durable 90Degree rotating earcups, makes it easy to adjust the headphone to your preferred fit for all-day comfort. Reminder: It is highly recommended to remove headphones every 1-2 hours, so your ears can relax for a pleasant hearing experience.
- Keep the Music Going: With 30Hours playtime with a built-in 750mAh Battery, you can now enjoy 30 hours of non-stop music, videos, or movies in Bluetooth mode for long haul flights or travel with a single full charge. You do not need to worry about your wireless headphones powering off mid-flight/mid-trip. 18-Months Worry Free warrant for this item purchased in NEW Condition. Our dedicated Customer Service Team will provide you with friendly services and quick resolution.
9. AKG Y50BT
AKG is known for its high-quality audio devices. The Y50BT combines impressive sound performance with portability, making it an attractive option for music lovers.
Features:
- Bluetooth connectivity
- 20 hours of battery life
- Well-balanced sound profile
- Foldable design
Pros:
- Great audio performance across multiple genres
- Comfortable ear pads
- Stylish design
Cons:
- Battery life is shorter compared to competitors
- Some users may find it slightly heavy
- 🎧Compatibility: Fit perfectly on Y50/Y50BT/Y55/K618/K619 Headphones. Please CHECK your Headphones' model before purchase.
- 🎧Rugged Durability: By adding High-density foam, your ears will no longer hurt even after an hour of wearing them. What's more,our thickened earpads will never go flat and cause discomfort as time goes by.
- 🎧Flawless Installation: Our earpads perfectly fit your headset base. No extra tool is needed and you can complete the entire installation within a few minutes.
- 🎧Enhanced Sound: Your old earpads negatively affect the sound quality of your headphones, while our well-maded earpads will not affect the sound performance of your headphones and make your headphones look brand-new again.
- 🎧WE CONTINUE TO develop more professional and ergonomic ear pads. If there is an issue with your purchase, please feel free to contact us directly.
10. Sony WH-CH510
Sony is a market leader when it comes to audio equipment, and the WH-CH510 is a budget-friendly option that features many of the brand’s advanced technologies.
Features:
- 35 hours of battery life
- Built-in microphone for hands-free calls
- Lightweight design for easy portability
- Quick charging capability
Pros:
- Long battery life
- Good sound quality
- Very lightweight and comfortable
Cons:
- Not as durable as more expensive models
- Limited bass response for some users
- 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.
Whether you’re navigating through Zoom calls, enjoying your favorite tunes, or engaging with podcasts, these headphones offer a range of features designed to fit any lifestyle. Be sure to explore each option to find the best affordable on-ear headphones that meet your needs. With options spanning various styles and functionalities, there’s certainly a perfect match for everyone.
Buying Guide: Best Affordable On-Ear Headphones
Finding the right on-ear headphones can be a challenge, especially when looking for a balance between quality, comfort, and price. This guide will help you navigate your options and find the best affordable on-ear headphones to suit your needs.
Key Considerations
1. Sound Quality
- Drivers: Look for headphones with larger drivers (40mm and above) which typically offer better sound quality.
- Frequency Response: A wider frequency range (20Hz – 20kHz) is ideal for capturing all audio nuances.
- Bass Performance: For bass lovers, check reviews or specifications for bass response.
2. Comfort and Fit
- Padding: Look for headphones with cushioned ear pads and headband for better comfort during prolonged use.
- Weight: Lightweight designs can offer extended comfort, especially if you plan to wear them for long periods.
3. Portability
- Foldable Design: Headphones that fold up are easier to store and carry.
- Case Included: Some models come with a carrying case for added protection.
4. Build Quality
- Materials: Durable materials (like metal or high-quality plastic) increase the longevity of your headphones.
- Cable: Tangle-free, detachable, or braided cables are preferable for durability and convenience.
5. Battery Life (for Wireless)
- Playtime: If you opt for wireless models, look for those offering at least 15-20 hours of playtime on a single charge.
- Quick Charge: Some headphones offer quick charging capabilities to minimize downtime.
6. Connectivity
- Wired vs. Wireless: Decide if you want wired (generally better sound quality and no battery worry) or Bluetooth options (for mobility).
- Bluetooth Version: If going wireless, look for at least Bluetooth 5.0 for better range and battery efficiency.
7. Brand and Warranty
- Opt for well-reviewed brands that offer warranties, ensuring you’re covered for any defects or issues.
Top Affordable On-Ear Headphone Recommendations
1. Sony MDR-7506
- Type: Wired
- Price: Around $100
- Highlights: Excellent sound quality, comfortable for long hours, and collapsible design.
2. Audio-Technica ATH-SR30BT
- Type: Wireless
- Price: Around $80
- Highlights: Impressive battery life (up to 70 hours), lightweight, and great sound quality.
3. JBL Tune 500BT
- Type: Wireless
- Price: Around $60
- Highlights: Good sound quality, 16-hour battery life, and a balanced design with a comfortable fit.
4. AKG Y500
- Type: Wireless
- Price: Around $150 (but often found discounted)
- Highlights: Auto-pause feature, decent sound, and a comfortable design; great battery life.
5. Sennheiser HD 280 Pro
- Type: Wired
- Price: Around $100
- Highlights: Excellent passive noise isolation, durable design, and professional-grade sound quality.
Buying Tips
- Read Reviews: Check customer reviews and ratings to gauge real-world performance.
- Try Before You Buy: If possible, test headphones in-store to see how they sound and feel.
- Look for Sales: Keep an eye out for sales events, which can significantly lower prices.
Conclusion
Affordable on-ear headphones can provide excellent sound quality and comfort without breaking the bank. By considering the factors listed above, you can make an informed decision, ensuring you choose a pair that meets your needs while staying within budget. Whether you prioritize sound quality, comfort, or portability, there’s a perfect pair waiting for you!
