The 8 best budget headphones weve tested under $100
If you’re on the hunt for quality headphones without breaking the bank, you’re in luck! The latest article from Mashable highlights a selection of budget-friendly headphones under $100 that deliver impressive features typically found in high-end models. With advancements in technology, you no longer have to sacrifice sound quality or essential features like active noise cancellation, Hi-Res Audio certification, and multi-device pairing for affordability. While premium headphones like the Sony WH-1000XM6 can set you back around $450, there are numerous alternatives that provide similar functionality at a fraction of the cost. For instance, brands such as 1More, Anker, and JBL are stepping up to the plate, offering models that rival more expensive headphones in sound quality and features.
As we approach Black Friday, the timing couldn’t be better to explore these budget options. The article emphasizes that cheaper doesn’t necessarily mean inferior when it comes to headphones. While higher-end models often boast superior sound quality, longer battery life, and cutting-edge features like adaptive active noise cancellation, many budget headphones are closing the gap. For example, some budget models do tend to leak sound more than their pricier counterparts and may lack advanced features like spatial audio or TalkThru technology, which enhances voice clarity during conversations. However, the curated list of top picks from Mashable showcases models that not only offer great sound but also incorporate standout functionalities usually reserved for higher-end headphones.
Whether you’re an Apple enthusiast or simply looking to upgrade your audio experience without a hefty price tag, this guide is a must-read. With the holiday shopping season on the horizon, now is the perfect time to dive into the world of budget headphones and discover options that deliver impressive performance without the premium price. Check out the full article for detailed reviews and recommendations that could enhance your listening experience while keeping your wallet happy.
If you want to cheat the system a bit and get your hands on incredible, crisp sound from a pair of headphones under $100, we’ve got you. You no longer need to choose between a cheap pair of headphones and incredible features like
active noise cancellation
, Hi-Res Audio certification, and multi-device pairing.
SEE ALSO:
Mashable will send the best Black Friday deals directly to your phone — how it works
Sure, you might be doing an IRL side eye emoji regarding the class-leading
Sony WH-1000xM6 headphones
— unveiled at the start of summer — but those things will
cost you $450
. Don’t bother dishing out that much money when you can get headphones for a fraction of the price (with much of the same functionality) or, better yet,
noise-cancelling headphones
that carry longer battery life and a stronger sonic punch than the
AirPods Max
. Speaking of which, did you know that users were previously reporting that their
Apple
headphones suffered ”
condensation death
” after being exposed to moisture buildup? Fortunately, our wireless headphones suggestions are all models you can wear for lengthy stretches — without stressing about their impending expiration date.
What are the best budget headphones?
If you’re still an Apple loyalist when it comes to headphones, stick with us for a sec. You’ll soon discover that these top picks from popular budget audio brands like 1More, Anker, and JBL are giving the market’s best a run for their money. We even have a bargain entry from
Sony
that’s well worth a look.
Don’t believe it? You’ll want to see for yourself by reading our reviews of the best headphones under $100 below — especially as
Black Friday approaches
, and your odds of scoring an even
better
deal on our picks go up.
What differentiates budget vs. higher-end headphones?
In case we weren’t clear enough before, cheaper does not mean worse by any means (and vice versa) when it comes to headphones. Not always, at least.
Yet, the general trend still stands that the “higher-end” a pair of headphones is, the more likely you are to get better sound quality (aka undistorted bass), more playtime, and state-of-the-art features like adaptive ANC.
Budget headphones are known to leak sound more often than their pricier alternatives, and they’ll likely have fewer extras, like spatial audio for immersive 3D sound and TalkThru technology (which amplifies your convo buddy’s voice while reducing music volume instantly) featured in some of JBL’s flagship headphones.
Nonetheless, we made it our mission to find headphones —
both on-ear and over-ear models
— that aren’t “higher-end” in price and borrow a lot of standout functionality from their more expensive counterparts.
