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10 Best and Cheap Headphones for 2026: Top Picks Under $100
In today’s fast-paced world, high-quality audio doesn’t have to be tied to high cost. Whether you’re listening to music, gaming, or teaching an online class, the best and cheap headphones are essential for clarity and comfort. The year is 2026, and Amazon remains a treasure trove of affordable headphones that deliver excellent performance. In this article, we explore the top 10 best and cheap headphones available on Amazon, ensuring that you can find an option that aligns with your budget and audio needs.
Top 10 Best and Cheap Headphones on Amazon
1. Mpow 071 USB Headset
The **Mpow 071 USB Headset** is a versatile option that provides quality audio at an incredibly affordable price. With a comfortable design featuring padded ear cups, it’s perfect for long hours of use, whether you are on a conference call or binge-watching.
- Plug-and-Play USB Computer Headset: Simply plug the USB-A connector of this PC headset with mic into your computer and you’re ready to talk or listen without the need to install software
- Rotating Noise Cancelling Mic: The computer headphones minimize unwanted background noise for clear conversations. The rotating boom arm can be tucked out of the way when you’re not using the computer headset with microphone
- Comfortable Headphones: These headphones for gaming feature an adjustable headband, swivel-mount, and leatherette ear cushions for comfort; they are easy to clean and are great as a noise-cancelling call center headset with a microphone
- Digital Stereo Sound: Fine-tuned drivers in these headphones with microphone provide enhanced digital audio for music, calls, meetings and more
- Handy In-line Controls: Simple in-line controls on the cable of these over ear headphones let you adjust the volume or mute calls without disruption; they're great as gaming headsets for PC and microphone noise cancelling headphones for work
Best for: Online meetings, casual listening.
Product Review: This headset boasts a noise-canceling microphone which significantly improves call quality, making it a go-to for remote work. The adjustable headband ensures a snug fit, while the plug-and-play feature eliminates complicated setups.
Pros: Comfortable, lightweight, excellent sound quality, convenient for both work and leisure.
Cons: Wires can tangle easily, not ideal for outdoor use due to lack of noise isolation.
2. taotronics SoundLiberty 92
The **taotronics SoundLiberty 92** are budget-friendly true wireless earbuds that offer a sleek design with excellent performance. They feature touch controls and are perfect for music enthusiasts and casual listeners alike.
- Transfer rate up to 5GBit/s Pure copper for ultimate conductivity
- 5 Feet USB 3.0 to USB C
- UL Certified / 5GB / PS Data
- Pure copper for ultimate conductivity / Works with any USB Type C devices / phone / computer / laptops / Sony / Xbox / Musical Instruments / TV / Mic
- Built to exceed the highest quality standards through strict manufacturing and testing processes, Universal Compatibility: Compatible with virtually all USB-C devices including phones, tablets, and laptops.
Best for: Wireless convenience, on-the-go listening.
Product Review: With a decent Bluetooth range and a battery life of up to 5 hours (plus 20 hours with the charging case), these earbuds are reliable companions for everyday use. Their IPX8 waterproof rating means you don’t have to worry about sweat during workouts.
Pros: Good sound quality, long battery life, waterproof design.
Cons: Touch controls can be overly sensitive, microphone performance may vary.
3. Sony MDR-ZX110NC
For those seeking noise cancellation on a budget, the **Sony MDR-ZX110NC** is an excellent choice. These over-ear headphones provide a comfortable fit and effective sound isolation.
- Integrated noise canceling technology.Specific uses for product : Personal, Business
- Up to 80 hours of battery life
- Lightweight for ultimate music mobility
- Dynamic 1.18 in drivers
- Swivel, folding design
Best for: Commuters, noisy environments.
Product Review: The MDR-ZX110NC features a built-in noise-canceling function that helps diminish ambient sounds, allowing users to enjoy music with clarity. Its foldable design makes it travel-friendly, and the battery life offers up to 80 hours of playback.
Pros: Noise cancellation feature, long battery life, portable design.
Cons: Sound may lack depth, comfort may diminish with prolonged use.
4. JBL T450BT Wireless On-Ear Headphones
The **JBL T450BT Wireless On-Ear Headphones** are notable for their comfortable design and powerful sound profile. JBL is a trusted name in audio products, known for their reliability.
- Frequency Response - 80 – 18,000 Hz and Impedance - 16 ohms
- Wireless communication technology: Bluetooth
- Item Weight: 1129.0 ounces
- item package weight: 10.6 ounces
Best for: Everyday use, travel.
Product Review: With a battery life of up to 11 hours and a lightweight design, these headphones are perfect for extended use. The sound quality is impressive, featuring deep bass that JBL is known for. They come with a quick charge feature for those last-minute audio needs.
Pros: Comfortable fit, good battery life, powerful sound.
Cons: Not ideal for audiophiles, limited passive noise isolation.
5. Anker Soundcore Life Q20
The **Anker Soundcore Life Q20** merges affordability with advanced features such as hybrid active noise cancellation and high-fidelity sound.
- 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.
Best for: Travelers, frequent flyers.
Product Review: With its impressive sound profile and 40-hour battery life in noise-canceling mode, the Q20 is designed to impress. The plush ear cups are perfect for long listening sessions, and the headphones support high-res audio thanks to their 40mm dynamic drivers.
Pros: Great battery life, effective noise cancellation, comfortable design.
Cons: Noise cancellation may not be as robust as higher-end models, a bit heavier due to the battery.
6. Puro Sound Labs BT2200
The **Puro Sound Labs BT2200** offers a safe volume limit for kids or adults concerned about hearing loss, making them one of the best options for family use.
- VOLUME-LIMITING TECHNOLOGY FOR SAFER LISTENING: These kids headphones limit the volume to a safe 85dB, protecting your child’s hearing while providing clear, premium sound. Ideal for children who love music, movies, and games.
- PREMIUM AUDIO PERFORMANCE: Equipped with Puro Sound Labs' Balanced Response Curve, these bluetooth headphones for kids offers a rich bass and crystal-clear vocals. Your child will enjoy a full, immersive sound experience within the safe 85dB volume limit.
- WIRELESS & WIRED OPTIONS WITH LONG BATTERY LIFE: Enjoy up to 20 hours of Bluetooth playtime with these kids Bluetooth headphones. Plus, the included 3.5mm audio jack ensuring easy wired listening for your kids when needed.
- COMFY AND ADJUSTABLE DESIGN FOR ALL-DAY COMFORT: These wireless headphones for kids feature breathable, soft earpads that are adjustable and rotatable, ensuring an ideal fit to every kids. Switch between on-ear and over-ear cushions for personalized comfort during extended use.
- TRAVEL-FRIENDLY WITH EXTRA FEATURES: These headphones for kids come with a protective hard case, making them ideal for travel. The included daisy chain cable allows connecting two headphones to one device, while the interchangeable earcups provide versatility.
Best for: Family use, kids.
Product Review: These headphones use a volume limiter that caps output at 85dB, helping to protect young ears. The sound quality is enriched with deep bass, making them great for any genre. With a Bluetooth range of up to 30 feet, they offer flexibility for movement.
Pros: Hearing-safe volume limit, excellent sound, comfortable design.
Cons: Not foldable, battery life may fall short compared to competitors.
7. Skullcandy Riff Wireless Headphones
**Skullcandy Riff Wireless Headphones** boast a trendy design with easy-to-use features, perfect for the youth market or anyone seeking style alongside functionality.
- 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
Best for: Style-conscious individuals, casual listeners.
Product Review: The Riff headphones are easy to pair with devices and feature decent sound that holds up in various settings. Their lightweight nature makes them incredibly portable, and you can get up to 12 hours of battery life on a single charge.
Pros: Trendy design, user-friendly controls, decent battery life.
Cons: Sound may not satisfy audiophiles, build quality feels less durable.
8. NUBWO U3 Gaming Headset
If gaming is your jam, the **NUBWO U3 Gaming Headset** offers fun features at a wallet-friendly price.
- Zero-Latency, Interference-Free Wireless Gaming Headset: Powered by proprietary 2.4GHz wireless technology, the NUBWO G06 ensures flawless connectivity during intense gaming sessions, including FPS and RPG titles. Seamlessly use wireless peripherals (keyboards, mice, controllers) alongside Wi-Fi networks without interference, delivering 0ms audio latency and 100% uninterrupted immersion
- 100-Hour Uninterrupted Gaming: Powered by a 1200mAh high-capacity battery and Proprietary Low-Power Chipset Technology, the NUBWO G06 delivers 50% reduced energy consumption, enabling 100 hours of uninterrupted gameplay
- Dual Wireless Freedom: Equipped with dual wireless technology (2.4GHz + Bluetooth 5.3), the headset ensures zero-compromise multitasking. While the 2.4GHz dongle connects to gaming consoles (PS5, PS4, PC) for ultra-low-latency audio, the Bluetooth 5.3 simultaneously links to your smartphone. Miss no critical calls—even during intense gaming sessions—as a single power button press instantly answers incoming calls without disrupting gameplay
- Triple Mode All Devices Compatible: Seamlessly switch between 2.4GHz wireless (dongle-connected for PC/PS5/PS4), Bluetooth 5.3 (mobile/tablet pairing), and 3.5mm wired modes (Xbox/Switch compatibility) with zero latency, offering universal device adaptability and uninterrupted gaming immersion （Xbox Series only supports 3.5mm wired）
- Immersive Sound Sync for Competitive Edge: Equipped with a 50mm composite diaphragm driver, this headset delivers immersive 3D surround sound—command the explosive audio of RPG epics and pinpoint tactical footsteps in FPS battles. Powered by a proprietary wireless chip, achieve seamless audio-video synchronization for true-to-life immersion
Best for: Gaming, casual use.
Product Review: This headset features a comfortable fit designed for long gaming sessions, as well as a high-precision magnetic neodymium driver for immersive audio experiences. The inline control allows for easy adjustments while you’re deep in gameplay.
Pros: Affordable gaming option, good sound quality, comfortable fit.
Cons: Microphone quality may not match high-end models, heavy for extended use.
9. AUKEY EP-N7 True Wireless Earbuds
The **AUKEY EP-N7 True Wireless Earbuds** are a great entry into the world of true wireless sound, combining good performance with impressive battery life.
- Incredible Sound Loved By 20 Million+ People
- Stunning Sound: Life P2 Mini true wireless earbuds have oversized triple-layer 10mm drivers that deliver sound with boosted bass.
- 3 EQ Modes: Soundcore Signature, the default EQ, delivers well-balanced sound, while Bass Booster enhances bass-heavy music, and Podcast makes voices stand out clearly. To switch to a different mode, quickly press the right earbud 3 times. You will hear a tone for each successful switch.
- Featherweight Fit: The tiny true wireless earbuds weigh just 0.16oz (4.4g), which is 10% lighter than standard earbuds. They’re so small and light that they feel practically weightless in your ears.
- AI-Enhanced Calls: Built-in microphones on Life P2 Mini true wireless earbuds are equipped with an AI algorithm to enhance voice pick up and ensure you’re heard clearly by the other end.
Best for: Daily commuting, casual listening.
Product Review: The EP-N7 offers up to 6 hours of playtime on a full charge plus an additional 24 hours with the charging case. The ergonomic design ensures comfort, and their sweat-resistant quality makes them a good option for workouts.
Pros: Comfortable, long battery life, decent sound quality.
Cons: Touch controls may be finicky, charging case is slightly bulky.
10. Sennheiser HD 280 Pro
The **Sennheiser HD 280 Pro** headphones are a staple for audio professionals, offering exceptional sound isolation and high-quality audio reproduction.
- 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
Best for: Audio professionals, serious music listeners.
Product Review: The HD 280 Pro features a closed-back design that allows for effective passive noise isolation, which is excellent for focused listening. With a frequency response of 8Hz to 28kHz, they provide a balanced sound profile suitable for a wide range of audio genres.
Pros: Excellent sound isolation, durable design, industry-standard for professionals.
Cons: Can feel bulky, may not be portable for everyday use.
Buying Guide: Best and Cheap Headphones
Finding the right headphones doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re looking for something for casual listening, gaming, or commuting, there are plenty of affordable options that deliver excellent sound quality and comfort. Here’s a comprehensive buying guide to help you navigate your choices.
1. Determine Your Needs
a. Purpose
- Casual Listening: Everyday use for music and podcasts.
- Gaming: Look for features like a built-in microphone and surround sound.
- Travel: Noise-cancellation and portability are key.
b. Style
- Over-Ear: Provides better sound isolation and comfort but can be bulkier.
- On-Ear: More portable; great for casual use without significant noise isolation.
- In-Ear: Most portable and generally cheaper; perfect for mobility.
2. Sound Quality
- Drivers: Look for headphones with larger drivers (usually 40mm or more) for better sound quality.
- Frequency Response: Aim for a range between 20 Hz to 20 kHz for balanced sound.
- Impedance: Lower impedance (around 16-32 ohms) works well with most devices.
3. Comfort and Fit
- Padding: Look for padded ear cups and adjustable headbands for comfort during long use.
- Weight: Lightweight headphones tend to be more comfortable for extended wear.
4. Battery Life (for Wireless Options)
- Playtime: Look for headphones that offer at least 8-10 hours of playtime on a single charge.
- Charging Time: Quick charge features can be handy for last-minute outings.
5. Connectivity
- Wired vs. Wireless: Wired headphones often provide better sound quality at a lower price point. Wireless headphones offer convenience and mobility.
- Bluetooth Version: For wireless options, look for Bluetooth 5.0 or higher for better stability and range.
6. Build Quality
- Durability: Look for materials that can withstand daily wear and tear, such as reinforced cables or sturdy plastic.
- Foldability: If you travel a lot, consider headphones that fold up for easier storage.
7. Additional Features
- Noise Cancellation: Active noise cancellation can be more expensive, but passive noise isolation can also be effective.
- Microphone: Necessary for calls or gaming; make sure it has decent sound quality.
- Controls: Inline controls can make it easier to adjust volume and manage calls.
8. Brand Reputation
Some reliable brands known for their affordable headphones include:
- Anker Soundcore
- Sony
- JBL
- Skullcandy
- SoundMAGIC
Popular Models Worth Considering
- Anker Soundcore Life Q20: Budget-friendly with active noise cancellation.
- JBL Tune 500: Great sound quality and comfortable design.
- Sony MDR-7506: A classic option for professionals and casual listeners alike.
- Skullcandy Riff Wireless: Affordable wireless option with fun design.
- Koss Porta Pro: A lightweight, portable classic with exceptional sound quality.
9. Price Range
- Aim for headphones priced between $30 to $100 to strike a balance between quality and affordability.
10. Read Reviews and Expert Opinions
Before making a final decision, read user reviews and check tech blogs to get an idea of performance and durability.
Conclusion
With the information in this guide, you’ll be better equipped to find the best and cheapest headphones that match your needs. Remember to try on different models if possible, and don’t rush the process. A good pair of headphones can enhance your listening experience without costing a fortune!
