Top 5 Best Headphones Under $100 – Budget-Friendly Picks That Deliver Premium Sound

Are you looking for the best headphones under $100 that offer amazing sound, comfort, and high performance while still being affordable? You’ve come to the right place.
As someone who constantly tests audio gear and recommends it to friends and readers, I know how difficult it can be to find quality headphones that actually deliver on their promises — especially on a budget. Whether you’re a casual listener, a gamer, a student, or a fitness enthusiast, there’s something on this list that suits your style and needs. In this post, I’m going to share my personal experience and handpicked reviews of the 5 best headphones under $100. I’ll cover the strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use cases of each product to help you make an informed decision. We’ll explore how these headphones perform in different scenarios, their comfort levels during extended use, and how they stack up against competitors in the same price range. Let’s dive into the reviews and find the best budget-friendly option for you!

Highlights of the Best Headphones Under $100

In this post, I’m going to share my personal experience and reviews of the 5 best headphones under $100, along with a detailed explanation of why each one deserves a spot on this list. These headphones were chosen based on user reviews, real-world performance, and their unbeatable value for money. We’ll discuss the audio quality you can expect, the durability of the materials used, and the different styles available – from over-ear to in-ear options. I’ll also include insights from other users to give you a comprehensive idea of ​​what you can expect. By the end of this article, you will have a deeper understanding of the best headphones under $100 and which one is right for your needs..

💡 My Advice: Don’t judge a pair of headphones just by the price tag. Some budget-friendly options outperform even the expensive ones — and I’ve found the gems for you!

1-Sony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphones – Studio-Grade Clarity on a Budget

When you’re looking for the best headphones under $100, the Sony MDR7506 is a legendary name that stands out above all others — because of its superior performance.

Built with neodymium magnets and 40mm drivers, these headphones deliver powerful, detailed sound that’s great for both home listening and professional studio monitoring. Whether you’re mixing audio, practicing guitar, or simply enjoying your favorite tracks, these headphones give you true-to-record audio without any unnecessary enhancements. That’s the beauty of the MDR7506 — its inventor probably didn’t think so.

🎵 My Experience and Honest Advice:

I first bought these headphones with the intention of using them with a small guitar amp – the Orange Crush Mini – and I think I was right. My expectations were low at first, hoping for basic performance. But as soon as I plugged them in, I was blown away. The clarity, balance, and precision of the sound were so amazing that I stopped listening to the music and really felt its beauty — like never before.

Over time, I’ve tried these headphones with different DACs and audio sources, and each time they’ve exceeded my expectations.

Their most impressive quality is that they expose everything. If a song is poorly mixed, these headphones don’t hide it — and if a track is beautifully produced, they bring out every little detail. If you’re really serious about sound quality, this is the one you need.

💡 Pros:

• ✅ Studio-level sound accuracy – no fake bass boost or artificial tuning
• ✅ Closed-ear design – great noise isolation, even without ANC
• ✅ Long 9.8 ft. cord with gold-plated plug – ideal for studio use
• ✅ Foldable with soft case – portable for travel or storage
• ✅ Timeless build quality – still rocking after 13+ years for some users
• ✅ Incredible value – under $100 but outperforms many expensive options

⚠️ Cons:

• ❌ No Bluetooth or noise cancelling
• ❌ Fixed (non-detachable) cable
• ❌ Not ideal for bass-heads or those wanting “enhanced” sound
• ❌ Comfort may vary over long sessions for some users

⭐ Customer Perspective:

One long-time user mentioned buying expensive headphones multiple times, only to keep coming back to the MDR7506 — simply because the sound is unmatched at this price point. Another noted how these headphones easily beat out a pair of modern IEMs that cost twice as much.

These aren’t flashy. No touch controls, no app, no gimmicks — but when it comes to pure, high-fidelity audio, they outperform headphones well beyond their price class.

🎙️ “When I want to hear crystal clear, high-fidelity music that is true to the recording… I always come back to the MDR7506.”

🏁 Final Verdict:

If you care more about sound quality than advanced features, the Sony MDR7506 is one of the best headphones under $100. Whether you’re an audio engineer, musician, or just an avid listener — these are headphones that will last you for years.

2-Apple EarPods with USB-C Plug – Classic Comfort & Reliable Sound for Everyday Use

When it comes to the best headphones under $100, you don’t always need something flashy or feature-packed — sometimes, simplicity paired with quality is all you need. That’s exactly what the Apple EarPods with USB-C Plug deliver: a trusted, everyday listening experience with a comfortable fit, clean sound, and practical design.

These aren’t just any earbuds. The EarPods are engineered with a unique shape that conforms to the ear, offering better comfort than traditional circular earbuds — especially during long listening sessions. Whether you’re catching up on a podcast, hopping into a Zoom call, or relaxing with your favorite playlist, these wired earbuds offer consistent performance without the hassle of charging or pairing.

🎵 My Experience and Honest Advice:

I personally like keeping a wired backup — especially when my Bluetooth headphones die mid-meeting or I need instant plug-and-play audio without worrying about connectivity. That’s where the Apple EarPods with USB-C shine. They work flawlessly with modern iPhones, iPads, and even Android phones that have USB-C ports.

And while they don’t come with noise cancellation or extra features, I was honestly surprised by the clear highs, balanced mids, and natural bass response. One reviewer even said they sound better than AirPods — and I get it. The sound isn’t overly bass-heavy, which makes them ideal for calls, spoken-word content, and music that values clarity over booming lows

💡 Pros:

• ✅ Comfortable ergonomic fit – better than many other earbud designs
• ✅ Clear, high-quality sound – balanced audio without bloated bass
• ✅ Built-in mic + remote – great for calls, volume, and media control
• ✅ No charging required – plug in and go with USB-C devices
• ✅ Affordable Apple quality – premium build at a budget price
• ✅ Great for meetings & travel – always reliable in a pinch

⚠️ Cons:

• ❌ Not ideal for bass lovers
• ❌ Durability can vary — some report one earbud failing over time
• ❌ Fit depends on ear shape — may not be secure for intense activity
• ❌ No advanced features like ANC or wireless

⭐ Customer Perspective:

Customers consistently praise these EarPods for their comfort, clarity, and reliability. One buyer mentioned, “These are my go-to when my Bluetooth headphones are dead — no fuss, just instant sound.” Another shared that they sound better than AirPods for everyday listening and offer great value for the price.

Some do note minor drawbacks like the right earbud occasionally failing or the fit being a bit loose, but overall, the positive feedback far outweighs the negatives — especially considering the budget price.

🎙️ “For the price, you get amazing sound quality and a comfortable fit — a must-have for any iPhone user.”

🏁 Final Verdict:

If you’re in search of reliable, comfortable, and well-sounding earbuds that won’t empty your wallet, the Apple EarPods with USB-C Plug are an excellent option. They’re ideal for remote workers, students, travelers, or anyone in need of a dependable wired choice in the best headphones under $100 range.

3-Philips SHP9500 – Audiophile-Grade Sound at a Budget-Friendly Price

If you’re looking for a headphone that’s both sound and shopping smart, you should take a closer look at the Philips SHP9500 HiFi Precision Stereo Over-ear Headphones. These headphones will prove that you can get a high-quality listening experience even on a budget. In fact, they’re easily the best headphones under $100 for anyone who values ​​crisp, clear sound, noise and distortion reduction, detailed sound staging, and comfort for long sessions.

At first glance, they don’t scream “premium,” but once you plug them in and press play – they prove to be a game-changer.

🔊 Sound that Surprises

Equipped with powerful 50mm neodymium drivers, the SHP9500 delivers a wide, balanced soundstage with crystal-clear clarity in the highs, mids, and lows. You can feel the open-back design in every track — instruments sound alive, distinct, and authentic. It feels like you’re stepping into musical worlds instead of just listening.

An audiophile who tested these Futures on other headphones that cost three times as much said: “These are better than headphones I’ve paid $200 for.”

And that’s no exaggeration. From metal to classical, from EDM to podcasts, the SHP9500 holds its ground with grace and precision. The bass is clear, not bloated. The treble is present, not piercing. And the vocals shine naturally.

Built for Comfort

The Philips SHP9500 headphones are designed for comfort, even during long listening sessions. They feature a two-layer cushion on the headband and soft, breathable ear cups, making them comfortable to wear for hours.

Whether you’re a gamer, a music producer, or just someone who enjoys music, you’ll notice how lightweight and soft they feel — even after extended use.

One happy customer shared:
“The ear cups are so soft on my ears that I sometimes forget I’m wearing them.”

That level of comfort is rare to find in headphones in this price range.

🔌 Functional Design

• ✅ 1.5m cable offers freedom of movement for desktop and indoor use
• ✅ Gold-plated 3.5mm jack for better connectivity and reduced signal loss
• ✅ Open acoustic system enhances spatial clarity
• ✅ Detachable cable (with some versions), ideal for upgrades or replacements

These are open-back headphones, which means:

• Sound leaks out – others nearby may hear your music.
• Outside noise comes in – you can still hear your surroundings.

So, they’re not ideal for noisy places or libraries.
But they’re great for quiet environments like home or studio, where you want natural, open sound.

🟢 Pros:

• ✅ Excellent clarity, sound separation, and wide soundstage
• ✅ Premium feel without the premium price
• ✅ Super comfortable for long sessions
• ✅ Great with or without EQ tweaking
• ✅ Ideal for gaming, music production, and critical listening

🔴 Cons:

• ❌ Open-back means sound leakage and no passive noise isolation
• ❌ Not designed for portable use or loud environments
• ❌ Treble may feel bright for some without EQ adjustment

🗣️ “These are the best budget headphones I’ve tested. The sound rivals $200+ pairs — truly unbeatable for the price.”

🎯 Final Verdict:

If you’re looking for clear, accurate, and high-quality sound, the Philips SHP9500 are worth checking out.

They’re not for those who like heavy bass or want noise cancellation. But if you prefer natural, open, and detailed sound — and want something comfortable — these are among the best headphones under $100.

Whether you’re playing games, editing music, or just enjoying your favorite songs, you’ll feel like you’re getting a great deal for the price.

4-Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones – Premium Performance Without the Premium Price

If you want comfortable headphones with great sound and premium features, but don’t want to spend a lot of money, these hybrid active noise cancelling wireless over-ear headphones are a great choice.

They offer the same features as expensive headphones, but at a price of less than $100 – making them perfect for taking on the go, using at home, or just for the office.

🔇 Block Out the World, Tune Into Your Sound

These headphones feature Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) technology, which not only reduces background noise but also helps create a calm and focused listening experience.

Whether you’re working, flying, or relaxing at home, ANC helps block out distractions.

Many people who have tried them say that the noise cancellation works really well, even in noisy places.

One happy customer even said:

“The noise cancellation works wonders — it blocks out background noise whether I’m working from home, at the office, or traveling.”

🎵 Impressive Audio with Deep Bass

These headphones give you clear high-quality sound with strong bass and rich midtones. They are Hi-Res Audio certified, which means the sound is very detailed and true to the original recording.

You also get personalized spatial audio and head tracking, which makes music, movies, and podcasts feel more 3D and immersive — like the sound is all around you.

No matter what you listen to, hip-hop, classical, or EDM, the sound feels balanced and pleasant.

🔋 Battery Life That Keeps Up With You

• 🔋 60 hours in standard mode
• 🔋 40 hours with ANC on
• ⚡ Quick 5-minute charge = up to 4 hours of playback

This kind of battery stamina is rare in this price range, making these headphones a smart pick for frequent travelers and power users. As one reviewer put it:

“I can go days without recharging — the battery life is a total game changer.”

Supreme Comfort & Travel-Friendly Design

• Soft memory foam ear cups and adjustable headband for a custom fit
• Lightweight construction with foldable design
• Built for long hours of wear without fatigue

People really love how comfortable and stylish these headphones are.

Whether you’re on long Zoom calls or watching movies for hours, your ears won’t get tired, and you’ll feel good wearing them the whole time.

📞 Clear Calls & Reliable Connection

Thanks to Bluetooth 6.0 and voice-targeting microphones, these headphones offer:

• Smooth and fast pairing
• Clear phone calls with noise-reduced vocals
• Consistent connection with phones, tablets, and laptops

🟢 Pros:

• ✅ Outstanding ANC performance for the price
• ✅ Hi-Res sound with deep bass and clear vocals
• ✅ Long-lasting battery life + quick charge
• ✅ Extremely comfortable for extended wear
• ✅ Foldable, lightweight, and travel-ready

🔴 Cons:

• ❌ No app for EQ customization
• ❌ ANC not adjustable by levels
• ❌ Not waterproof or sweat-resistant

🗣️ “It’s my first time using this kind of headphones, and honestly, the experience has been incredible. The comfort, sound, and battery life all exceeded expectations.”

🎯 Final Verdict:

These hybrid active noise-cancelling headphones are special because they give you the best combination of price, style, and features.

They sound great, are comfortable for travel, and have a long battery life, all for under $100.

Whether you just listen to music for fun or use headphones every day while traveling, this pair is a great choice that will never let you down.

5-Symphonized EMF Airtube Wooden Headphones – Style, Safety, and Sound in One

Are you looking for something different in headphones under $100?

The Symphonized Premium Wooden Airtube EMF Earbuds are not just stylish and good-sounding — they’re also designed to protect your health.

They use air tube technology to help reduce EMF (electromagnetic field) exposure, which makes them a smart choice for people who care about safety and well-being.

🌿 Safer Listening with EMF Protection

These aren’t normal wired earbuds.

Symphonized uses special air tube technology that helps block harmful EMF (electromagnetic waves) — the kind you get from wireless devices.

Even with this protection, the sound is still clear and rich.

They’re a great choice for:

• Parents
• Travelers
• Or anyone who worries about the long-term health effects of wireless tech.

They also make a thoughtful and meaningful gift.

🎵 3D Audio with Real Wood Craftsmanship

Sound quality doesn’t take a backseat here. These earbuds feature:

• 🔊 8mm bass drivers
• 🎶 Immersive 3D audio
• 🌲 Natural wood housing for warmer tones

One customer raved:

“I can even hear fingernails on guitar strings — that’s how clear and detailed the audio is!”

This level of sonic precision is rare in budget earbuds, and the wooden finish adds a unique, high-end aesthetic.

🎧 Comfortable Fit & Corded Convenience

These earbuds come in a variety of sizes with both foam and silicone tips, so you can choose the ones that fit your ears best.

People really like the comfortable and secure design, especially those who are tired of constantly falling out of their earbuds.

One review also clearly highlights this benefit.

“Omg!! The ergonomic design of this earphone should be the gold measurement. I never had any headphones that don’t keep falling.”

✈️ Ideal for Travel & Daily Use

Corded design lovers will appreciate:

• No risk of losing expensive wireless buds mid-flight
• Passive noise isolation that blocks out airplane hum and city noise
• Lightweight build, easy to pack and use on the go

Some people have different opinions about how long these earbuds last over time.

But most travelers say they work really well while traveling and are a good option instead of AirPods, especially if you don’t want to worry about charging or battery life.

🔌 USB-C Compatibility + Mic & Volume Control

These wired earbuds are USB-C enabled, making them plug-and-play for:

• Android smartphones
• USB-C iPads and tablets
• iPhone 15 and 16
• Modern laptops and Chromebooks

These earbuds have a mic and volume buttons built-in, so you can easily control music or answer calls without taking out your phone every time.

It makes using them quick and convenient.

🟢 Pros:

• 🌿 EMF-reducing air tube tech for safer listening
• 🎧 Excellent sound quality with 3D effects and deep bass
• 🌲 Natural wood design — stylish and unique
• 🔊 Good passive noise cancellation
• 📱 USB-C with built-in mic & controls
• 🛫 Perfect for travel and corded convenience lovers

🔴 Cons:

• ⚠️ Some reports of mic/wire durability over long-term use
• ⚠️ No wireless option if preferred
• 🎚️ Occasional volume control issues on select units

🗣️ “Even though they stopped working fully after 2 years, I’m repurchasing — that’s how much I love these. They block plane noise better than my AirPods!”

🎯 Final Verdict:

The Symphonized EMF Airtube Headphones are more than just regular earbuds.

They combine:

• Good sound,
• Health-friendly design (reduce EMF exposure), and
• A beautiful, handmade look.

If you want USB-C wired earbuds under $100 that look unique and sound great, these are a smart choice.

🎧 The Ultimate Buying Guide: Best Headphones Under $100 (2025 Edition)

Looking for the best headphones under $100 that don’t sound cheap or fall apart after a few weeks? You’re in the right place.

Whether you’re a student on a budget, a music lover, a remote worker, or just someone tired of breaking the bank on overpriced gear — we’ve handpicked the top performers that offer exceptional sound, comfort, and durability without crossing the $100 mark.

This guide will help you make a smart, satisfying purchase based on what matters most: performance, comfort, features, and value for money.

🎧 Why Choose Headphones Under $100?

You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars to get great audio. In fact, many budget headphones today offer:

• 🔊 Hi-Res audio quality
• 🎧 All-day comfort
• 📞 Built-in microphones for calls
• 🔇 Active noise cancellation
• 🔋 Impressive battery life
• 🎮 Great performance for gaming and streaming

The trick is knowing which models deliver on their promises — and that’s where this guide comes in.

🛍️ What to Look for When Buying the Best Headphones Under $100

Here’s a breakdown of the key features you should look for:

1. 🎵 Sound Quality

This is priority #1. Look for headphones with:

• Balanced bass, mids, and highs
• Large drivers (30mm+ for over-ear, 8mm+ for earbuds)
• Support for Hi-Res Audio if possible

Tip: Open-back headphones (like the Philips SHP9500) are best for immersive, natural listening. Closed-back or ANC models (like the Sisism wireless) are great for travel and blocking out noise.

2. 😌 Comfort & Fit

No one wants headphones that hurt after 30 minutes. Look for:

• Soft memory foam or protein leather ear cups
• Adjustable headbands
• Lightweight design
• Multiple ear tip sizes for in-ear models

Pro Tip: If you’re on long Zoom calls or flights, comfort should be a top priority.

3. 🔋 Battery Life (Wireless Models)

Don’t settle for less than 20 hours of playtime. Many budget headphones now offer:

• 40–60 hours (Sisism, for example)
• Quick charging features
• Standby modes to save power

4. 🔇 Noise Cancellation

Not all ANC is equal. If you work in noisy environments or travel often, noise-cancelling headphones like the Hybrid ANC models are worth it.

5. 🎙️ Microphone & Controls

Built-in mics with volume/playback controls are now standard in this price range. Look for:

• Crisp voice pickup (ideal for calls and Zoom)
• In-line controls or smart touch panels

6. 🔌 Wired vs. Wireless

• Wired (like Apple EarPods or Symphonized Airtube): Great for reliability, zero lag, and no charging worries. Ideal for travel and compatibility with laptops or iPhones via USB-C.
• Wireless (like Sisism): Freedom of movement, great for workouts and travel. Make sure they support the latest Bluetooth versions (like Bluetooth 5.0+).

🔥 Our Top Picks (2025)

Here’s a quick recap of the best headphones under $100 we’ve reviewed:

Product	Best For	Price Range
🎧 Apple EarPods with USB-C	iPhone users, reliable calls	$19–$29
🎧 Philips SHP9500 Over-Ear	Audiophiles, open-back clarity	$65–$85
🎧 Sisism Hybrid ANC Headphones	Travel, remote work, ANC on a budget	$70–$90
🎧 Symphonized EMF Wooden Earbuds	EMF safety, unique design	$60–$80

Each of these offers excellent value, backed by real customer satisfaction and impressive feature sets for the price.

💡 Final Tips Before Buying

✅ Check compatibility — Especially if you’re buying wired headphones. Make sure they work with your device’s port (USB-C, 3.5mm, Lightning, etc.).

✅ Read real reviews — Avoid fake-looking ratings. Look for detailed customer feedback on durability and comfort.

✅ Think about your use case — Traveling? Gaming? Zoom meetings? Pick a model that suits your lifestyle, not just your budget.

🎯 Conclusion

You don’t need to compromise quality when shopping for the best headphones under $100. Today’s market offers incredible value with models that rival even premium options. Whether you’re after crystal-clear audio, noise cancellation, or a stylish design — there’s a perfect pair out there waiting for you.

Ready to find your match? Scroll through our full headphone reviews and choose the one that fits your ears and your wallet.