10 Best Affordable Headphones 2025 in the United States

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.

JBL Tune 510BT headphones offer a solid choice for those seeking affordable wireless headphones with a range of useful features. They deliver impressive sound quality with JBL's renowned Pure Bass sound, which is a notable strength for music lovers. The 40-hour battery life is another significant advantage, allowing for extended listening without frequent recharges. Additionally, the quick charge feature provides 2 hours of playback with just a 5-minute charge, which is convenient for users on the go.

Comfort-wise, the headphones are designed with an adjustable headband to fit most head sizes, though some users might find them initially tight. The suggestion to stretch them over a ball for a better fit is a helpful tip provided by the manufacturer. The headphones are also foldable, making them easy to store and carry around. They come with a built-in microphone for hands-free calls and support for voice assistants like Siri and Google, enhancing their practicality for everyday use. Connectivity is straightforward with Bluetooth 5.0, and they can switch between two devices seamlessly.

However, the headphones lack water resistance, which might be a downside for users who plan to use them during workouts or in the rain. Noise isolation is present but not as effective as some high-end models, and there is no active noise cancellation. Durability is decent, with a lightweight yet sturdy build. In summary, the JBL Tune 510BT headphones are well-suited for budget-conscious users looking for good sound quality, long battery life, and convenient features, though they might not be the best choice for intense physical activities or environments requiring high-level noise cancellation.

The Sony WH-CH720N Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones excel in several key areas that make them a strong contender in the affordable headphones category. They offer superb sound quality, enhanced by the Integrated Processor V1 and Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE), which ensures clear and natural vocals, along with balanced tuning. The headphones are incredibly lightweight at just 192g, making them comfortable for extended wear. The design is complemented by a long battery life of up to 35 hours, with a quick charge feature that provides an hour of playback from just a 3-minute charge, making them highly convenient for daily use.

Additionally, the dual noise sensor technology and adjustable ambient sound mode allow for superior noise cancellation and customization based on the user's environment, which is a significant advantage for those looking to immerse themselves in their music or work in noisy settings. Connectivity is also a strong point, with Bluetooth and multipoint connection capabilities that allow users to switch between two devices seamlessly. The built-in microphone and Precise Voice Pickup Technology ensure crystal-clear hands-free calling, making these headphones versatile for both entertainment and communication.

On the downside, the high impedance of 325 Ohm may not be compatible with all devices, potentially requiring additional amplification for some users. Additionally, while the noise-canceling features are robust, they might not match the effectiveness of some higher-end models. The durability seems solid, but more intensive use scenarios might test their longevity. These headphones are best suited for users seeking a balance of comfort, sound quality, and advanced features without breaking the bank.