Finding quality headphones without breaking the bank is easier than ever. Modern budget options deliver impressive features – including active noise cancellation (ANC) and long battery life – at prices well under $100. This guide breaks down the top picks, from the under-$50 JBL Tune 510BT to the feature-rich 1More SonoFlow Pro.
The State of Affordable Headphones
The headphone market has changed. High-end models like the Sony WH-1000XM6 can cost $450, but you no longer need to spend that much to get a great listening experience. Brands such as 1More, Anker, and Sony are now competing directly with premium options by offering similar functionality at a fraction of the price. This competition benefits consumers, especially with major sales events like Black Friday further lowering prices.
Top Picks: Headphones Under $100
Here’s a look at the best headphones you can buy without emptying your wallet:
1. 1More SonoFlow Pro: The Best Overall Value
The 1More SonoFlow Pro stands out for its combination of sound quality, ANC performance, and battery life. At a price point under $100, these headphones provide vibrant, well-balanced audio with effective noise cancellation that rivals more expensive models. Battery life is exceptional: up to 100 hours without ANC and 40 hours with it enabled.
- Key Features: LDAC codec support for hi-res playback, adjustable EQ settings via the companion app, and a comfortable over-ear design.
- Drawbacks: The build quality may feel slightly cheap compared to premium options, and spatial audio performance is mediocre.
2. JBL Tune 510BT: The Budget King (Under $50)
For those on a tight budget, the JBL Tune 510BT is an unbeatable option at around $50. These on-ear headphones deliver acceptable sound quality, long battery life (up to 40 hours), and convenient multi-device pairing.
- Key Features: Fast charging (5 minutes = 2 hours of playback), lightweight and portable design.
- Drawbacks: No ANC or transparency mode, and the on-ear design may become uncomfortable after extended use.
3. Anker Soundcore Space One: Feature-Packed Noise Cancellation
The Anker Soundcore Space One offers a surprising amount of functionality for its price. These over-ear headphones feature adaptive ANC, a comfortable design, and a robust feature set accessible through the Soundcore app. Battery life is excellent: up to 44 hours with ANC and 55 hours without.
- Key Features: AI-powered call noise reduction, quick charging (5 minutes = 4 hours of playback), and a color-coordinated carrying bag.
- Drawbacks: The large size may not be ideal for all users, and call quality can be subpar.
4. Sony WH-CH520: Reliable and Affordable
The Sony WH-CH520 offers a no-frills but reliable listening experience. These on-ear headphones provide Sony’s signature sound technologies and up to 32 hours of battery life. They’re a solid choice for everyday use, but lack ANC or transparency mode.
- Key Features: Customizable EQ settings via the Sony Headphones Connect app, comfortable on-ear design, and available in various stylish colors.
- Drawbacks: The build quality feels flimsy, and the earcups may be too small for some users.
Why These Headphones Matter
The rise of affordable, high-quality headphones demonstrates a shift in the audio industry. Consumers no longer need to compromise on features or sound quality to stay within a budget. These options provide a compelling alternative to expensive premium models, making good audio accessible to a wider audience. As technology advances, this trend will likely continue, with even more impressive budget options entering the market.
The next few months will see Black Friday deals on these products, so now is a great time to start researching.
