Best Affordable Headphones for General Use (2025 Guide)
Finding a good pair of headphones doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re listening to music, watching movies, attending online classes, or working from home, there are plenty of affordable options that offer excellent sound quality, comfort, and durability. In this post, we’ll explore the best affordable headphones for general use in 2025 — all under $100!
If you're looking for a budget-friendly pair that balances performance and price, you're in the right place.
1. Anker Soundcore Life Q30 – Best Overall Under $100
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| Anker Soundcore Life Q30 |
Type: Over-Ear | Connection: Wireless
Price Range: Around $70
The Anker Soundcore Life Q30 is easily one of the best value headphones on the market today. It offers a surprisingly premium experience at an affordable price. With hybrid active noise cancellation, the Q30 blocks out most ambient noise, making it perfect for commuting, studying, or working.
Key features include:
- Up to 40 hours of battery life with noise canceling on (and up to 60 hours without).
- Customizable EQ settings through the Soundcore app.
- Comfortable memory foam earcups for long listening sessions.
- USB-C fast charging.
If you want wireless freedom, reliable noise cancellation, and excellent sound, the Anker Soundcore Life Q30 is a top pick for general everyday use.
2. Audio-Technica ATH-M20x – Best Affordable Wired Headphones
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| Audio-Technica ATH-M20x |
Type: Over-Ear | Connection: Wired
Price Range: Around $50
If you prefer the simplicity and reliability of wired headphones, the Audio-Technica ATH-M20x is a fantastic choice. Known for their studio-quality audio gear, Audio-Technica delivers great sound even at their entry-level price point.
Highlights include:
- Clear and balanced sound — perfect for music, podcasts, and video calls.
- Durable build quality — designed to last for years.
- Comfortable earcups — ideal for extended wear.
While it lacks fancy features like wireless connectivity or noise cancellation, the ATH-M20x makes up for it with pure, clean sound and robust construction.
3. Sony WH-CH520 – Best Lightweight Wireless Option
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| Sony WH-CH520 |
Type: On-Ear | Connection: Wireless
Price Range: Around $60
Sony consistently makes great headphones, and the WH-CH520 continues that tradition in the budget range. This model is lightweight, comfortable, and offers incredible battery life — up to 50 hours on a single charge.
Why it’s great:
- Clear, balanced sound with strong Bluetooth connectivity.
- Multipoint connection — you can connect to two devices at once (like your phone and laptop).
- Very comfortable even during long listening sessions.
If you want an affordable wireless headphone for everyday use without the extra weight, the Sony WH-CH520 is a smart pick.
4. JBL Tune 510BT – Best Bass Under Budget
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| JBL Tune 510BT |
Type: On-Ear | Connection: Wireless
Price Range: Around $50
If you love a bit more bass punch in your music, the JBL Tune 510BT is for you. Known for their lively and energetic sound, JBL delivers a headphone that’s fun for casual listening.
Features you’ll love:
- Pure Bass sound tuned by JBL engineers.
- Quick charge — 5 minutes of charging gives you 2 extra hours.
- Lightweight and foldable design — easy to carry around.
While the battery life is slightly lower than others on this list (around 40 hours), it’s still more than enough for daily use.
5. OneOdio Pro-10 – Best Ultra-Budget Pick
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| OneOdio Pro-10 |
Type: Over-Ear | Connection: Wired
Price Range: Around $40
For those who want great value at the lowest price, the OneOdio Pro-10 is a hidden gem. Originally designed for DJs and studio monitoring, these headphones offer powerful sound and a very durable design.
Top features include:
- Powerful bass and crisp treble.
- Dual ports — you can plug into two devices at once.
- Detachable cables — useful if you want to replace or upgrade the wire.
If you’re tight on budget but still want solid sound and rugged build, the OneOdio Pro-10 is an excellent option.
Related
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best affordable headphones for general use depends on your needs. If you prioritize wireless freedom and noise cancellation, the Anker Soundcore Life Q30 is hard to beat. For those who prefer a wired setup with clean sound, the Audio-Technica ATH-M20x remains a top contender. Lightweight fans will appreciate the Sony WH-CH520, while bass lovers should consider the JBL Tune 510BT. And if you’re just looking for the best bang for your buck, the OneOdio Pro-10 won’t disappoint.
In 2025, great headphones don’t have to come with a premium price tag. Whichever model you pick, you’ll enjoy clear audio, good comfort, and lasting performance without spending a fortune.
Happy listening!
Disclaimer: All product images and links used in this blog post are sourced directly from Amazon for review and informational purposes only. Pick My Gadgets not claim ownership of these images.