In this list of the 13 best headphones under $50, we’re here to prove that getting great-sounding headphones on a budget is more achievable than ever. While it’s true that there are plenty of low-quality options to avoid, there are also some outstanding choices available.These budget-friendly headphones offer incredible value and can rival models that cost significantly more—all without breaking the bank. In this buyer’s guide, I’ve curated only the products I would personally consider if I were spending under $50 in 2024.
iJoy Hypnotic
Pros
- Sleek, modern design
- Effective noise-canceling technology
- 35-hour battery life (wireless use)
Cons:
- Limited to only two color options
- Not available in physical stores
Why We Like It: The recently refreshed iJoy Hypnotic is a standout in the headphone market, offering one of the best product updates in recent years. The original model gained popularity due to its affordability, but the new version takes things to the next level with significant improvements. Priced under $50, this model is feature-rich and delivers impressive performance.In our testing, the battery life was excellent, delivering 33 hours of playback at 50% volume, close to the claimed 35 hours, all thanks to Bluetooth 5.0. The sound is fun and punchy, with well-extended bass and a warm tone that makes it versatile for various musical genres.
While the ANC (Active Noise Cancelling) isn’t on par with higher-end models like the Sony WH-1000XM5, it’s more than adequate for reducing background noise and making travel more enjoyable.What truly sets the Hypnotic apart is its aesthetic redesign. The sleek, modern look sits comfortably on the head without appearing oversized, making it our top choice for budget headphones in 2024.
Verdict: It’s incredible how far budget headphones have come, and the iJoy Hypnotic is the most advanced option available in 2024.
Superlux HD681 Evo
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality
- Great for gaming
- Very comfortable with velour pads
Cons:
- Open-back design leaks sound
- Best suited for home or office use
Why We Like It: The Superlux HD681 Evo has been a budget favorite for years, and for good reason. It offers audiophile-quality sound at a fraction of the cost, making it an exceptional value.
The Evo stands out as the best-sounding headphone on this list, offering detailed and balanced audio with an expansive soundstage that’s impressive for a sub-$50 headphone.Comfort is another highlight, with the Evo coming equipped with two pad options—Pleather and Velour—and a sturdy build quality. The cables are also replaceable, and if you’re into customization, you’ll find plenty of online resources for modding these headphones to suit your needs.
Verdict: The Superlux HD681 Evo is a fantastic choice for neutral, open-sounding headphones, ideal for both music production and gaming.
Koss Porta Pro
Pros:
- Legendary design
- Compact and foldable
- Exceptional sound quality for under $50
Cons:
- Open-back design leaks sound
- Headband can catch on hair
Why We Like It: The Koss Porta Pro remains one of the best headphones under $50, even after 30 years on the market. Its small size and impressive sound quality make it our top pick for the best portable headphones in this price range. A favorite among audiophiles, the Porta Pro delivers a sound experience praised by enthusiasts who pair them with high-end DACs and DAPs.
The Koss Porta Pro is a true legend, often considered one of the best audiophile headphones under $200, despite its budget-friendly price. With a compact, nearly indestructible design, these headphones continue to be best-sellers worldwide. But it’s the sound that truly shines—offering a balanced, detailed audio experience with crisp clarity that outshines most other headphones in this price range.For those who like to tinker, there are plenty of mods available that can elevate the Porta Pro’s performance even further without much additional cost. Plus, its retro style is instantly recognizable and continues to attract fans who appreciate its unique look.
Verdict: The Koss Porta Pro is the best audiophile headphone under $50, offering remarkable sound quality that’s hard to beat if sound is your top priority.
Audio-Technica M20x
Pros:
- Excellent build quality
- Good isolation
- Best under $50 for music production
Cons:
- Sound may feel a bit flat for casual listening
- Price can vary depending on the vendor
Why We Like It: The Audio-Technica M20x is the budget-friendly sibling of the highly popular ATH-M50x, and it inherits much of the DNA from its more expensive counterpart. This makes the M20x one of the best all-around headphones in this price category.
The build quality is outstanding for the price, with a solid construction designed to last. The sound is clean and tight, with a well-defined low end that provides a satisfying punch. While primarily intended as budget studio monitors, the M20x also holds up well in other uses.In terms of style, these headphones are sleek and professional, and while they are a bit large, their low-profile design makes them suitable for portable use in a pinch. However, where they truly excel is in music production and podcasting. If you’re looking to get started in these areas without spending a lot of money, the M20x is an excellent choice.
Verdict: A great studio headphone for under $50, perfect for those getting into music production or podcasting.
Anker Soundcore Life Q20
Pros:
- Ultra-portable foldable design
- Effective noise cancellation
- Built-in volume and playback buttons
Cons:
- Slightly above the $50 budget
Why We Like It: The Anker Soundcore Life Q20 just barely exceeds our $50 budget, but we’ve included it because it’s often available on Amazon at a discount or as a renewed item, bringing it within our price range.
For that slight stretch, you get one of the best budget headphones under $100, backed by the trusted Anker brand. These headphones are packed with features, including ANC, Bluetooth 5.0, BassUp enhancement, 40 hours of battery life, and quick charging via USB-C.The sound quality is excellent, making it the best-performing wireless model in our tests for audio fidelity. The standard sound profile is clear and balanced, with the option to enhance the bass using Anker’s BassUp technology, making these headphones versatile and perfect for commuting.
However, if you’re looking for compatibility with the Anker Soundcore App, you might need to spend a bit more on the Soundcore Life Q30, as the Q20 isn’t yet supported by the app.
Verdict: These headphones are definitely worth stretching your budget for.
Monoprice BT300 ANC
Pros:
- Excellent budget headphones for travelers
- Hi-Res audio codecs
- Great noise-canceling technology
Cons:
- Less premium than $100+ headphones
- Available only in black
Why We Like It: It’s incredible how far technology has come—now you can get APTX Bluetooth 5.0 headphones with built-in noise-canceling technology for such a low price. A few years ago, recommending a pair of budget headphones with these features would have been unthinkable, as the tech was either nonexistent or didn’t work well. But now, I’m thrilled to say, it does.
I reviewed the Monoprice BT300 ANC just a few months ago and tested them on several international flights. I was thoroughly impressed. Everything worked exactly as it should. While you’ll find more refinement in higher-end models, the real question is whether those pricier headphones are worth the extra cost. Increasingly, I’m finding that they’re not.
JLab Studio Pro
Pros:
- Extremely comfortable due to lightweight design
- Unique and funky designs
- Huge 50-hour battery life
- Good build quality
Cons:
- Lacks noise-canceling technology
Why We Like It: One of the biggest surprises of 2024 is the inclusion of the JLab Studio Pro on our list. While you might not go for the bold tropical print (though I love it for summer), there are also more standard options in black, blue, and gray.
The battery life is an impressive 50 hours, so you could easily get by with charging them just once a week with moderate use. And when it’s time to recharge, you can do so via USB-C.Comfort is a standout feature, thanks to the lightweight construction and plush foam earpads that cushion your ears. The build quality is solid, and these headphones have a distinctive look that sets them apart from anything else on the market.Kudos to JLab for their creative approach—despite the lack of ANC, the Studio Pro is still a strong contender this year.
Verdict: Funky, stylish, and exceptional battery life.
Edifier H840
Pros:
- Simple and affordable with good analytical sound quality for the price
- Closed-back design provides effective isolation
- Great value for money
Cons:
- Uninspired styling
Why We Like It: While the Edifier H840 may not win any awards for its looks, its sound quality more than makes up for it. These headphones are an excellent choice for the office, thanks to their closed-back design, which offers above-average noise isolation. They’re also well-constructed, with generous padding that ensures comfort during extended use.
The sound is smooth and refreshingly crisp, with the H840 delivering clarity in the midrange and extending well into the high notes. This results in a clear and accurate sound profile that doesn’t introduce too much coloration, making them a standout in their price range.
Verdict: A straightforward headphone with uncolored, clear sound quality.
JBL Quantum 100 – Best Cheap Gaming Headset
Pros:
- Gaming headset with built-in mic
- Attractive styling and solid build quality
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Lacks the expansive soundstage of more expensive gaming headsets
Why We Like It: The JBL Quantum 100 is the only gaming headset on our list of best headphones under $50, and it offers excellent value for money. If you’re on a tight budget, it’s smarter to invest more in your gaming setup and less on peripherals like headphones. With the Quantum 100, you’re not sacrificing much in terms of materials and design.
This headset does the basics well, providing clear, flat sound, and the built-in mic performs admirably. They’re also very comfortable for long gaming sessions, thanks to the large, well-padded ear cups.
Verdict: Currently, the best gaming headset you can buy under $50.
Skullcandy Riff
Pros:
- Fashion-forward on-ear headphones
- Strong Bluetooth reception
- Sturdy build quality
Cons:
- Dated Bluetooth technology (4.2)
Why We Like It: Normally, I prioritize sound quality over style, but the Skullcandy Riff strikes a balance by offering both good looks and solid performance without breaking the bank. In particular, the burgundy color option stands out, but there are plenty of other colors to choose from. I appreciated the simple, clean lines and the warm yet fun sound signature.You get up to 12 hours of playback on a single charge, and despite being made of plastic, they feel well-built and durable. The only downside is the outdated Bluetooth 4.2, which lags behind competitors that have moved on to Bluetooth 5.0 or higher.
Verdict: A funky design paired with good build quality makes the Skullcandy Riff a great choice for those who value style and sound.
Samson SR850
Pros:
- Extremely impressive balanced sound
- Simple mods can significantly enhance performance
Cons:
- The design feels a bit dated
Why We Like It: The Samson SR850 was one of the first headphones I ever reviewed, and it continues to hold its ground among budget audiophiles today. The sound quality is beautifully clear and detailed, rivaling some of the top contenders on this list, like the Superlux models.
These headphones feature an open-back design, which provides a spacious soundstage, and with a few easy mods, you can fine-tune them to suit your personal taste. The studio monitor styling is excellent, and they are incredibly comfortable for long listening sessions.
Verdict: Amazing sound that can be further enhanced with the simple 2p modification.
Monoprice BT 300ANC
Pros:
- Bluetooth and ANC (Active Noise Cancellation)
- Great for travel
- Fun, bass-heavy sound
Cons:
- The design is somewhat plain
Why We Like It: The Monoprice BT 300ANC are full-sized headphones designed with travelers in mind. Their large size houses powerful drivers that excel across various musical genres but truly shine with EDM and other bass-heavy electronic styles.
These headphones are a budget-friendly option for bass lovers, delivering a deep, resonant low end with just enough sparkle in the high notes to balance the sound. They also come equipped with noise-canceling technology and convenient built-in control buttons.
Verdict: A simple, clean design paired with effective noise cancellation makes these a solid choice for travel.
Sennheiser HD206
Pros:
- Long-lasting, dependable headphones
- Classic design
- Neutral sound ideal for monitoring and music production
Cons:
- Padding is prone to cracking over time and may need replacement
Why We Like It: The Sennheiser HD206 is a classic design that has been around for years, serving as an entry-level staple in the Sennheiser lineup. These headphones are built to be durable workhorses, perfect for students, musicians, and studios that put their gear through heavy use.
The sound is flat and neutral, making them well-suited for monitoring and music production. Comfort is adequate, and there’s even a running joke that when the world ends, the only things left will be cockroaches and the Sennheiser HD206—testament to their long-term durability.
Verdict: A favorite among audiophiles, these can be easily found in brick-and-mortar stores like Best Buy.
Cheap Headphones Buyers Guide
What to Look For?
When shopping for headphones in the sub-$50 category, you’ll find many options to choose from. This price point is popular because it’s affordable for most people, but that doesn’t mean you should settle for just anything cheap. In this market segment, price doesn’t always reflect the sound or build quality.
Some well-known headphone manufacturers can offer lower prices because of economies of scale. Companies like Sony and JVC sell large quantities of headphones in this range, which allows them to reduce production costs. On the flip side, smaller companies with minimal marketing budgets can also be competitive, relying on word of mouth to drive sales and keep prices low.
It’s also impossible to ignore the rise of the Chinese HiFi market, which has become a significant player in this price range. Over the past decade, these companies have shifted from producing low-quality products to delivering outstanding value in audio equipment, including headphones, earphones, and digital audio players. With low production and design costs, Chinese brands now pose a real threat to established audio companies by offering cheap headphones that can compete with much pricier options.
Avoid Buying Cheap Headphones Purely for Fashion
One of the biggest mistakes when buying cheap headphones is choosing based solely on appearance. While style is essential—after all, you want your headphones to match your personal aesthetic—there are more critical factors to consider, especially if you plan to use them daily.
Focus on Comfort, Build Quality, and Sound Quality. In the sub-$50 range, you’ll likely have to compromise in one or more areas, but it’s worth considering what you need from your headphones in terms of performance and how you plan to use them. This approach will help you make a more informed decision that you’ll be happy with in the long run.
You Don’t Always Need to Shop for Known Brands
In recent years, the “ChiFi” revolution has changed the audio landscape. In the past, if you wanted quality, you might have automatically gravitated toward brands like Sony, Bose, or JVC. But now, many companies from China are offering incredible value with their audio products, including headphones.
These Chinese brands deliver exceptional sound quality at prices that would have been unimaginable just a few years ago. As a result, audiophiles and headphone enthusiasts are increasingly turning to these lesser-known companies for the best deals. Sometimes, a sub-$50 headphone from an obscure brand can outperform a $200+ set from a well-known company.
Over-Ear Headphones vs. On-Ear Headphones
In this guide, we’ll cover both on-ear and over-ear headphones under $50. The choice between the two comes down to personal preference and how you plan to use your headphones.
- Over-Ear Headphones: These are usually more comfortable, as they place less pressure on the outer ear. Their larger size allows for bigger drivers, which can improve sound quality. They also tend to provide better isolation from environmental noise, making them ideal for home or office use.
- On-Ear Headphones: These are generally more compact and lighter, making them easier to carry around, especially if you travel frequently. They also tend to be less susceptible to heat build-up around the ears during extended listening sessions.
When deciding between the two, consider your usage habits. If you need headphones primarily for home or office use, over-ear models might be the best choice for their comfort and sound isolation. On the other hand, if portability and space-saving are your priorities, on-ear headphones could be a better fit.