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10 Best Affordable Headphones 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

JBL Vibe Beam - True Wireless JBL Deep Bass Sound Earbuds, Bluetooth 5.2, Water & Dust Resistant, Hands-free call with VoiceAware, Up to 32 hours of battery life (Black)

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,335
Sound Quality
Comfort and Fit
Battery Life

Most important from
26726 reviews

Sound Quality
The audio quality can be significantly improved with a few adjustments using the JBL Headphone app's equalizer.
Comfort and Fit
The earbuds stay securely in place during workouts and have an impressive battery life.
Battery Life
The earbuds stay securely in place during workouts and have an impressive battery life.
Noise Isolation and Cancellation
The ambient sound feature is designed to protect the eardrum by minimizing incoming sounds during loud noises, like passing ambulances.
Durability
The earbuds are water-resistant; even after being accidentally washed, they still worked perfectly after being dried out.
Connectivity
Pairing with Bluetooth devices is straightforward, and the connection range is quite good.

The JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless earbuds offer several strong points, making them an attractive choice for those seeking affordable headphones. The sound quality is a standout feature, thanks to the JBL Deep Bass Sound delivered through 8mm drivers, ensuring a rich and immersive audio experience. Comfort is also well-addressed with an ergonomic design that fits snugly in the ear, enhancing the listening experience and excluding external sounds for better bass performance.

Another significant advantage is the impressive battery life, providing up to 32 hours of playback (8 hours from the earbuds and an additional 24 hours from the charging case). Quick charging capabilities are also a plus, allowing for an extra two hours of listening with just a 10-minute charge. The earbuds are water and dust resistant, making them suitable for various activities, from beach outings to bike trails, thanks to their IP54 certification.

Connectivity is reliable with Bluetooth 5.2, ensuring a stable connection within a 10-meter range, and Touch Control makes operations straightforward. While they offer active noise cancellation, it might not be as effective as higher-end models, potentially letting in some ambient noise. The microphone quality is decent for hands-free calls, but it may not deliver crystal-clear audio in very noisy environments. Additionally, the plastic material of the carrying case might feel less premium to some users. Despite these minor drawbacks, the JBL Vibe Beam earbuds provide excellent value for their price, with robust features that cater well to everyday use and casual listening.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,335
Sound Quality
Comfort and Fit
Battery Life

Most important from
26726 reviews

Sound Quality
The audio quality can be significantly improved with a few adjustments using the JBL Headphone app's equalizer.
Comfort and Fit
The earbuds stay securely in place during workouts and have an impressive battery life.
Battery Life
The earbuds stay securely in place during workouts and have an impressive battery life.
Noise Isolation and Cancellation
The ambient sound feature is designed to protect the eardrum by minimizing incoming sounds during loud noises, like passing ambulances.
Durability
The earbuds are water-resistant; even after being accidentally washed, they still worked perfectly after being dried out.
Connectivity
Pairing with Bluetooth devices is straightforward, and the connection range is quite good.
#2

Beats Studio Pro - Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones - Personalized Spatial Audio, USB-C Lossless Audio, Apple & Android Compatibility, Up to 40 Hours Battery Life - Black

Rating
9.8
Sound Quality
Comfort and Fit
Battery Life

Most important from
22366 reviews

Sound Quality
The sound quality offers a lively and more neutral tone compared to previous Beats models, with Dolby Atmos and head tracking adding a fun, immersive experience.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is excellent with plush ear cushions and a stable fit, though the strong clamping force may not suit everyone.
Battery Life
Battery life is impressive, with long playback times and quick charging that fits well into busy days.
Noise Isolation and Cancellation
Active noise cancellation is effective and versatile, allowing easy switching to transparency mode for situational awareness.
Durability
The headphones feel solid yet lightweight compared to premium alternatives, making them more portable without sacrificing build quality.
Connectivity
Connectivity is seamless, with easy Bluetooth pairing across Apple and Android devices, plus handy wired and USB-C lossless audio options.
Microphone Quality
Mic quality supports clear calls with voice-targeting technology that minimizes background noise, even if some users notice minor glitches with announcements or Siri.

The Beats Studio Pro headphones offer rich and immersive sound thanks to Beats' custom acoustic platform and support for lossless audio via USB-C. They include three sound profiles and personalized spatial audio that enhances the listening experience, which is a strong point for music lovers. Comfort-wise, these are over-ear headphones with faux leather padding, likely providing a decent fit for extended use, though the weight (around 9 ounces) may feel a bit heavy for some. Battery life is impressive, delivering up to 40 hours of playback on a single charge, with a quick 10-minute charge adding 4 more hours—great for long days without frequent recharging.

Noise control is solid, featuring active noise cancellation and a transparency mode that lets in outside sound when needed, making them versatile for different environments. The microphones use voice-targeting technology that filters background noise, so call clarity is good. Connectivity is strong with Bluetooth 5.3, offering a reliable range and easy pairing with both Apple and Android devices, plus wired options via a 3.5mm audio cable.

Durability is decent with a woven carrying case included, though the headphones aren’t water-resistant, which might be a drawback if you plan to use them during workouts or in wet conditions. Controls are user-friendly, with buttons and touch options, plus voice assistant support. These headphones represent a solid choice for anyone seeking premium sound, long battery life, and effective noise cancellation in an affordable package, but might be less ideal if you need something lightweight or water-resistant.

Rating
9.8
Sound Quality
Comfort and Fit
Battery Life

Most important from
22366 reviews

Sound Quality
The sound quality offers a lively and more neutral tone compared to previous Beats models, with Dolby Atmos and head tracking adding a fun, immersive experience.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is excellent with plush ear cushions and a stable fit, though the strong clamping force may not suit everyone.
Battery Life
Battery life is impressive, with long playback times and quick charging that fits well into busy days.
Noise Isolation and Cancellation
Active noise cancellation is effective and versatile, allowing easy switching to transparency mode for situational awareness.
Durability
The headphones feel solid yet lightweight compared to premium alternatives, making them more portable without sacrificing build quality.
Connectivity
Connectivity is seamless, with easy Bluetooth pairing across Apple and Android devices, plus handy wired and USB-C lossless audio options.
Microphone Quality
Mic quality supports clear calls with voice-targeting technology that minimizes background noise, even if some users notice minor glitches with announcements or Siri.
#3

Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones, Wireless Headphones with Active Over Ear Noise Cancelling and Mic, Deep Bass, Up to 24 Hours of Playtime, Black

Rating
9.7
Noise Isolation and Cancellation
Sound Quality
Comfort and Fit

Most important from
13032 reviews

Noise Isolation and Cancellation
The active noise cancellation effectively blocks nearly all external sounds, creating a truly quiet listening environment even without music playing.
Sound Quality
These headphones deliver a warm yet clear and balanced sound that can be easily customized through the app’s EQ settings to match personal preferences.
Comfort and Fit
Exceptional comfort is provided by well-padded earcups and a cushioned headband, making them suitable for long listening sessions without causing pressure discomfort.
Connectivity
Bluetooth connectivity is seamless and reliable, with smooth switching between devices that outperforms many competitors in real-world use.
Battery Life
Battery life impresses with all-day endurance and fast charging, allowing extended use with minimal downtime.
Durability
Build quality prioritizes lightness and comfort, but the predominantly plastic construction requires careful handling to avoid damage.

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones stand out as a strong choice for those seeking comfortable, quality noise-cancelling headphones without breaking the bank. They deliver impressive sound quality with high-fidelity audio and customizable EQ settings, allowing you to adjust bass, mids, and treble to suit your taste. The active noise cancellation is effective, complemented by passive noise isolation thanks to the well-padded over-ear cushions that also offer great comfort for long listening sessions.

Battery life is solid, providing up to 24 hours on a single charge, plus a quick 15-minute charge can add a couple of hours of playback, which is convenient for busy days. Connectivity is flexible with Bluetooth 5.1 and multipoint pairing, making it easy to switch between devices without hassle. The headphones also come with a wired option and a built-in microphone suitable for calls, though the mic is decent but not exceptional for noisy environments.

Some users might find the plastic build less rugged compared to more heavy-duty models, and they lack water resistance, so care is needed around moisture. Touch controls are modern and responsive but may take some getting used to. For anyone looking for reliable noise cancellation, comfort, and sound quality in an affordable package, these Bose headphones are a worthy contender, especially if you want easy device switching and long battery life.

Rating
9.7
Noise Isolation and Cancellation
Sound Quality
Comfort and Fit

Most important from
13032 reviews

Noise Isolation and Cancellation
The active noise cancellation effectively blocks nearly all external sounds, creating a truly quiet listening environment even without music playing.
Sound Quality
These headphones deliver a warm yet clear and balanced sound that can be easily customized through the app’s EQ settings to match personal preferences.
Comfort and Fit
Exceptional comfort is provided by well-padded earcups and a cushioned headband, making them suitable for long listening sessions without causing pressure discomfort.
Connectivity
Bluetooth connectivity is seamless and reliable, with smooth switching between devices that outperforms many competitors in real-world use.
Battery Life
Battery life impresses with all-day endurance and fast charging, allowing extended use with minimal downtime.
Durability
Build quality prioritizes lightness and comfort, but the predominantly plastic construction requires careful handling to avoid damage.

Buying Guide for the Best Affordable Headphones

Choosing the right pair of affordable headphones can greatly enhance your listening experience without breaking the bank. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your personal needs and preferences. Here are some essential specs to consider when shopping for affordable headphones.
Sound QualitySound quality is the overall audio performance of the headphones. It includes clarity, bass, treble, and balance. Good sound quality ensures that you can enjoy your music, podcasts, or calls without distortion. For casual listening, a balanced sound profile is ideal. If you enjoy bass-heavy music, look for headphones with enhanced bass. For audiophiles, even in the affordable range, some headphones offer a more detailed and accurate sound.
Comfort and FitComfort and fit are crucial for long listening sessions. This spec refers to how the headphones feel when worn and how well they stay in place. Over-ear headphones usually offer more comfort with padded ear cups, while on-ear and in-ear models are more portable. If you plan to use headphones for extended periods, prioritize comfort with adjustable headbands and cushioned ear pads. For active use, such as workouts, in-ear models with secure fit options are preferable.
Battery LifeBattery life is important for wireless headphones and indicates how long they can operate on a single charge. Longer battery life means less frequent charging, which is convenient for travel or all-day use. For casual use, a battery life of around 10-20 hours is sufficient. If you need headphones for long commutes or travel, look for models offering 20+ hours of battery life. Consider your usage patterns to determine the right battery life for you.
Noise Isolation and CancellationNoise isolation and cancellation help reduce unwanted ambient sounds. Noise isolation is achieved through the design of the headphones, which physically blocks out noise. Noise cancellation uses technology to actively counteract external sounds. For quiet environments, noise isolation may be enough. If you frequently use headphones in noisy places like public transport, active noise cancellation can significantly enhance your listening experience.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the headphones can withstand wear and tear. This is important for ensuring longevity, especially if you plan to use them frequently or on the go. Look for headphones made with sturdy materials like metal or high-quality plastic. If you need headphones for active use, consider models with sweat and water resistance. Assess your lifestyle and choose headphones that can handle your daily activities.
ConnectivityConnectivity options include wired and wireless (Bluetooth) headphones. Wired headphones typically offer better sound quality and no battery concerns, while wireless headphones provide more freedom of movement. If you prefer convenience and mobility, wireless headphones are a good choice. For those who prioritize sound quality and don't mind the cable, wired headphones are ideal. Consider how you plan to use the headphones to decide on the best connectivity option.
Microphone QualityMicrophone quality is important if you plan to use the headphones for calls or voice commands. A good microphone ensures clear communication without background noise. For occasional calls, a basic built-in microphone may suffice. If you frequently take calls or use voice assistants, look for headphones with high-quality microphones and noise reduction features. Think about how often you'll use the microphone to determine its importance.

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