Top 10 Best Headphones Under $100

08 Sep, 2022   |   5 min read
Top 10 Best Headphones Under $100

 

Now that the party season of summer 2022 is almost over, it is time to come back from the loud and noisy parties and start working until the next holidays. Once the months of carelessly dancing to every latest tune are over, it is natural to miss the anthems rocking the room and you partying your heart out to the beats. However, we have a very good solution for it that will also assist you in work and keep you focused throughout the day. Having headphones on you at all times is almost a necessity now. There are some people who don't travel without the earpiece even to the nearest store which is understandable because background noise is quite important for lots of activities.

We have seen people who have earphones and headphones dangling from their necks throughout the day and even at night as they find falling asleep without them to be a bit difficult. What we intend to say is that your life constantly needs you to have clear sound and therefore owning good quality headphones is a necessity now. Be it for online zoom meetings, listening to your favorite artist's newest album, or learning about different social issues via podcasts, these technological devices help you get through the day without boring you. If you don't know where to find the right ones, we have the perfect solution for you in mind. Our experts have collectively reviewed the best headphones under $100 and are delighted to let you know that these will not only fall within your budget but the sound quality will impress you without any doubt.

You should just browse through the list of best headphones for under $100 that we have prepared and take maximum advantage of the greatest products in the market right now. So what are we waiting for? Let’s begin!

Our Top Picks for the Best Headphones Under $100

1. Audio-Technica-ATH M40x 1. Audio-Technica-ATH M40x See Details
2. Soundcore By Anker Life Q30 2. Soundcore By Anker Life Q30 See Details
3. Sony-MDR7506 3. Sony-MDR7506 See Details
4. Jabra Elite 45 4. Jabra Elite 45 See Details
5. Philips SHP9500 5. Philips SHP9500 See Details
6. Urbanears Plattan 2 6. Urbanears Plattan 2 See Details
7. AKG Pro Audio K361 7. AKG Pro Audio K361 See Details
8. Audio-Technica ATH-M40x 8. Audio-Technica ATH-M40x See Details
9. Sennheiser HD 4.40 BT 9. Sennheiser HD 4.40 BT See Details
10. Anker Soundcore Life Q30 10. Anker Soundcore Life Q30 See Details
1. Audio-Technica-ATH M40x
2. Soundcore By Anker Life Q30
3. Sony-MDR7506
4. Jabra Elite 45
5. Philips SHP9500
6. Urbanears Plattan 2
7. AKG Pro Audio K361
8. Audio-Technica ATH-M40x
9. Sennheiser HD 4.40 BT
10. Anker Soundcore Life Q30
1

1. Audio-Technica-ATH M40x

Best Review

Customers are always looking for a satisfying sound when it comes to headphones and that is exactly what Audio Technica provides. It is one of the best in the business and our experts were deeply impressed with how well they mark with the technicalities of music too. Be it recording, mastering tunes, or even mixing certain music, you will find the performance to be exceptional. It is also quite affordable and is used by lots of people in the studio. Our experts say that it is one of the best studio headphones under 100 and even casual listeners can take advantage of the offer because of how easy to use it is. The product produces an energetic sound which is ideal for all kinds of beats and you get detachable cables along with it that makes the overall usage quite interesting. They have been built quite solidly and have the flexibility that will ensure the headphones last for a long time. You can easily rest them on your shoulder and ensure that your day is spent with utter entertainment.

Check Out: Best Gaming Headset Under 100

Features

  • Wired connectivity
  • Over-ear style
  • 15 Hz- 24 kHz frequency
  • Well-padded cups
  • 40 mm drivers
  • Accurate midrange
  • Energetic sound
  • 3.5 mm connector
  • Audio interfaces
  • A/V receivers
  • Headphone amplifiers
  • 90-degree swivel ear cups
  • Collapsible hinges

Reason to Buy

  • Affordable
  • Flexible
  • Great sound quality
  • Comfortable
  • Suitable for studio
  • Durable
  • Sonic integrity

Reason to Avoid

  • Can be a bit bulky
  • No microphone

Buy Audio-Technica-ATH M40x
2

2. Soundcore By Anker Life Q30

Best Review

Have you ever bought headphones that are extremely high-end but they come for an affordable price? No? Well, we have a surprise for you. The Anker headphones possess all the qualities that are found in expensive devices but you can get them for extremely cheap. The design is impeccable and they come with a Bluetooth connection which is a great quality in all the best headphones for 100 dollars. You will get a premium pair but for half the price which is not a feature, you usually get in the market. These ones are equipped with ANC and you can choose from lots of different modes available in the headphones. If you are someone who listens to music or podcasts while traveling, this pair brings you the good news of doing so with the traffic noise control feature. When you are indoors, it prevents the sound of typing and chatting from reaching you and the transparency really helps with the overall experience. The battery life is almost 40 hours which is incredible because you can spend the entire day with it without running out of options for listening to your favorite music.

Check Out: Best Watches Under 1000

Features

  • Bluetooth 5.0
  • Over-ear style
  • 16 Hz- 40 kHz
  • ANC-equipped
  • Different modes
  • Compatible with iOS and Android
  • 40-hour battery life
  • Fast charging
  • Built-in microphones
  • Multiple device connection

Reason to Buy

  • ANC
  • Long battery life
  • EQ presets
  • Premium features
  • Affordable price
  • Compatible with most devices
  • Long-lasting

Reason to Avoid

  • No APTX support

Buy Soundcore By Anker Life Q30
3

3. Sony-MDR7506

Best Review

If you have been using headsets for a very long time, you would be aware of the importance of MDR. They have remained popular and in style since the 90s and after looking at the new versions that keep rolling out, we can understand why. Sony is a company that needs no introduction. It is a technological giant in the industry that has made its name through high-quality and innovative designs. You would be glad to know that some of your favorite tracks in the 90s and early 2000s have been made using the MDR which makes the experience even more thrilling. The newest model also possesses the ability to rock any studio and professional setting with a gigantic frequency that will leave you super impressed. You can clearly hear all the instruments and decide which vibe you want your tune to have. The earcups are extremely comfortable and if you need to use the device for a very long time, these are the best headphones for 100 dollars that will provide everything you need.

Features

  • Wired connectivity
  • Over-ear style
  • 10 Hz to 20 kHz style
  • Professional use
  • Accurate frequency response
  • Clean audio
  • Crisp and slight lift
  • Various ranges
  • High-frequency drones
  • 9.8-foot cable
  • 3.5mm gold-plated plug

Reason to Buy

  • Comfortable
  • Reduces background noise
  • Quick and easy to use
  • Reliable connection
  • Portable
  • Durable

Reason to Avoid

  • Long cable
  • Replaceable pads can degrade

Buy Sony-MDR7506
4

4. Jabra Elite 45

Best Review

When it comes to the best $100 headphones and that too with a wireless connection, nothing can beat the model that Jabra put out for the customers. It is made with great battery life by keeping in mind the use of the consumers and details every feature with the technology that is currently in demand. It has almost become impossible to have quiet mornings because of how used we are to the sound. However, you still need to drown out the noise around you during commuting hours and what is the better way of doing so if not with the headphones that will ensure you are 100% free of the idle morning chatter. For some people, the greatest feature they need in the model is battery life and charging rate. This is precisely for those who love to listen to their music and podcasts all day long and require a good pair of headphones for survival. With this one, you get the full packaged deal. They are quite compact and contain comfortable cushions so you can wear them all day long and not feel any sort of irritation. They have really thought this through.

Features

  • Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
  • On-ear style
  • 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency
  • 40 mm drivers
  • 50 hours of battery life
  • 15 minutes quick charge
  • Presets available
  • Access to My Sound
  • Built-in microphone
  • Onboard button
  • Voice assistants compatibility

Reason to Buy

  • Compact
  • Comfortable
  • Long battery life
  • Less charging time
  • Custom EQ
  • Lots of options to choose from
  • Cups surround the ear

Reason to Avoid

  • On ear-design may not fit well
  • No active noise-cancellation

Buy Jabra Elite 45
5

5. Philips SHP9500

Best Review

Are you the kind of person who enjoys their music in the style of a concert? Well, look no further because this model is here to fulfill all your dreams, and that too with amazing quality. We recommend this headset for people who have a serious love for listening to music and podcasts because it has been designed in such a way that it provides premium listening quality to all users. Features like microphone, Bluetooth, EQ presets as well as other compatible apps are available in it but the transportive sound that has the ability to transport you to the hall of melody with every tune is probably the star when it comes to Philips mode. You get improved imaging as well as the proper enhancement of all kinds of beats with the open-end design. We really think this is a one-of-a-kind model that you should be getting your hands on if you appreciate music as we do. The only downside is that they don’t offer noise cancellation which means that some sound gets transported outside as well which could be a problem when it comes to recording music or dialogues.

Features

  • Wired connectivity
  • Over-ear
  • Open back
  • 12 Hz to 35 kHz
  • Purpose-built pair
  • Transportive sound
  • Large angled 50 mm neodynamic drivers
  • Spacious soundstage
  • Padded ear cushions
  • Ergonomic headband

Reason to Buy

  • Affordable
  • Airiness is the fit
  • Precision
  • Good for gaming
  • Improved imaging
  • Great for music lovers
  • Amazing sound quality
  • Comfortable

Reason to Avoid

  • Sound bleed
  • Bit bulky

Buy Philips SHP9500
6

6. Urbanears Plattan 2

Best Review

It is difficult to find a solid sound that provides both instrumental as well as beat accuracy under 100 but this is the brand that managed and that too so well. The sleek pair of headphones are available at less price than all the high-end brands but they give you the specifications that will make your experience great. You will be delighted to know that their battery life is also long-lasting so you don't have to charge them every day if you are not using the set regularly. Other than that, the audio quality is superior to all the other devices mentioned on the list and you will be blown away by the crystal clear beats and symphonies that can be heard through all the frequencies. It has 30 hours of battery life which is more than enough for recording or just listening to your regular podcasts or your favorite music. It has a single control knob which might take some time to adjust to but once you get into the habit of using it, you will find that it is much easier to change songs, play and pause as well as answer phone calls on this headset. It is obviously connected through Bluetooth and offers a wide range.

Features

  • Bluetooth Aux Connectivity
  • On-ear style
  • 20 Hz to 20 kHz
  • Solid sound
  • 30 hours battery life
  • Great bass
  • Most frequencies are supported
  • Single onboard control knob
  • 3.5mm audio cable

Reason to Buy

  • Affordable
  • Multiple stylish colorways
  • Option for wired connection
  • Sleek pair
  • Amazing audio
  • Maintains frequency at a high volume too
  • One knob for all functions

Reason to Avoid

  • Limited volume
  • Hard to use

Buy Urbanears Plattan 2
7

7. AKG Pro Audio K361

Best Review

This updated model came out after the customers posted feedback on the last version released by AKG. It offers you the satisfaction that most features have been revised as per the feedback and they have since produced this model that is excellent in performance and has all the parts packed in a compact and great design. The imaging of this particular set is quite accurate which means you get to hear the perfect sound, as well as the melodies and instruments, are crystal clear. The over-ear rotating cups are big and they can easily move around and save space if you want to pack them in a compact space. If you are someone who listens to music all day, these are great for you because the comfort is unmatched and you will be able to wear them all day long without any fear of rash. The cable is detachable and the headphones are also compatible with other devices so you can easily use it as a studio device too.

Features

  • Wired connection
  • 3.5mm and 6.3mm
  • Driver size 50mm
  • 15-28 Hz frequency range
  • Over-ear
  • Closed-back design
  • No noise cancelation
  • No mic
  • 32ohm impedance
  • 7.7ounces weight
  • OFC detachable cables
  • Foldable

Reason to Buy

  • Super lightweight
  • Human target tuning
  • Foldable ear cups
  • Comfortable fit
  • Long-lasting
  • Affordable
  • Can be used by beginners

Reason to Avoid

  • Sound changes based on position

Buy AKG Pro Audio K361
8

8. Audio-Technica ATH-M40x

Best Review

When it comes to Audio Technica, the one thing we have noticed is that it outperforms its competitors in sound quality. The overall sound signature is extremely good for all the listeners who love the accurate base. The depth of the sound is what appealed to us with this model and if you have a headphone amplifier, you will enjoy the experience of listening to your favorite music even more. The passive noise isolation has also shown great results and we believe that the headphones are primarily made for studio use because of the features that enable you to block out background noises during recording. With affordable quality, the users are always concerned about durability because most sets tend to give out after a month or two. But trust us on this that this model is great for use if you are looking for a long-term commitment to the headset. You just have to be careful with the hinges and keep it up to date and we promise you will not need to find a replacement any time sooner.

Features

  • Wired connection
  • Driver size 40 mm
  • 15-24 Hz frequency
  • Over-ear
  • Closed-back design
  • No noise cancelation
  • No mic and controls
  • 35ohm impedance
  • 47-inch cable length
  • Detachable cable

Reason to Buy

  • Balanced sound profile
  • Good bass
  • Professional design features
  • Quality detachable cables
  • Good noise isolation
  • Great value for money

Reason to Avoid

  • Not immediately comfortable
  • Cable might break

Buy Audio-Technica ATH-M40x
9

9. Sennheiser HD 4.40 BT

Best Review

No matter how great the options for wired earphones are, the feeling of bliss you get when you don't have to be bound to the device with a wire is something else. This is why we have brought you this incredible model from Sennheiser. They have a well-rounded bass which means you get to hear all the beat drops and melodies with ease. The accurate midrange allows for excellent imaging and you don't have to worry about outside noise causing a problem with the device. They look quite expensive even though they fall under the $100 range and the features they pack are great for all kinds of users. So, even if you are a beginner, you can easily use it without spending a lot of time and effort on figuring the set-out. The generous amount of padding also makes for a very comfortable headset and the greatest news is that if you wear glasses and are always personally irritated with how the structure never fits, you are in for a pleasant surprise here. The clamping force attached to the padding has a great adjustable design and it is quite light as well.

Features

  • Bluetooth 4.0
  • 18-22 Hz frequency
  • Over-ear
  • 25 hours of battery life
  • 33ft wireless range
  • No noise cancellation
  • Micro-USB
  • Microphone
  • Not water resistance
  • Foldable
  • App compatibility
  • 3.5mm port

Reason to Buy

  • Great sound reproduction
  • Companion app with EQ
  • Good battery life
  • Comfortable
  • Fits well
  • Controls are easy to use
  • The bluetooth range is good

Reason to Avoid

  • Unable to use built-in control in wired mode

Buy Sennheiser HD 4.40 BT
10

10. Anker Soundcore Life Q30

Best Review

No matter how much the headphones promise you that they won't let the outside voice travel to you, don't believe the feature until it clearly says noise canceling. This is one of the most important specifications that people look for in their high-quality headphones and that too for all the right reasons. You can easily customize the audio with the help of the Anker app that is compatible with the model and enjoy all the different kinds of music and controls that the feature offers. We instantly became huge fans of the audio quality because considering the price it is available, this is practically a steal and we couldn't be happier about this. The earpads are nicely built with the most comfortable materials and they offer you the greatest durability on the market. You also get a carrying case along with this that ensures that the headphones are protected from any sort of harm. The ambient sound mode is enabled to guarantee excellent sound cancelation and you would be so impressed with how these perform that you wouldn't be able to stop yourself from recommending it to your friends.

Features

  • Bluetooth 5.0
  • 40mm driver size
  • 16-40 Hz frequency range
  • Over-ear
  • 60 hours of battery life
  • 65 feet wireless range
  • Noise-canceling
  • Quick charge
  • USB-C
  • Mic controls
  • Not water resistant
  • Ambient mode
  • Multi-point
  • Mobile app with EQ

Reason to Buy

  • Excellent sound quality
  • Great ANC with 3 modes
  • Comfortable fit
  • Companion app with EQ
  • Outstanding battery life

Reason to Avoid

  • Bass isn’t very fast
  • Looks bulky on your head

Buy Anker Soundcore Life Q30

Things to Consider When Buying the Best Headphones Under 100

You never know when you have to head out to the market to select the headphones for yourself. This is why it is always best to be aware of which features to look out for. Continue reading our guide below to find out how we shortlisted the above-mentioned headphones.

Battery life

This is one of the most important factors, especially for people who are always in the mood for a little entertainment. Nothing frustrates you more than the battery running out when you are in the middle of a commute. This is why quick charging and long battery life matter. Some of the products we have reviewed above have as high as 60 hours of battery life which means they will continue to run for almost two days which is great if you are not someone who forgets to charge their device often. It totally depends on your use though. You can afford to run out of battery while you are inside the house but when you go out, it is important to make sure that your headphones are not lacking in this area.

Noise cancelation

While we have had many other features in the headphones ever since the 80s, the recent one that has gotten quite popular is noise cancelation. More and more people want to listen to their music and podcasts without the interruption of the outside world and it has only been possible through the technology that keeps providing wonderful magic to the devices. People who travel via public transport or those that have to record in the studios prefer absolute peace and quiet when they are listening to something important so they prefer to have this particular feature in their headphones. Usually, wireless options come with this spec so you can check them out accordingly.

Budget

Of course, you cannot forget the one factor that really helps in shortening your list. We have compiled the list of products that are available under 100 but you can widen or narrow down your choice as per the requirements. Also, if you want your price, it is better to hurry up and get the desired rates because inflation means that costs of production are increasing and you will find it more and more difficult to score a good deal if you wait any longer. So far, Amazon is the cheapest place to get the things you want and they also offer lots of discounts on the products so we suggest that you browse that market before going anywhere else.

So, now that you have all the options listed in front of you, which headphone do you think is the best for you this season?


Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between open-back and closed-back headphones?

The difference is with the earcups. One covers your entire ear and has a shield around it that prevents the headphone from sliding off or making you listen to the outside noise. The other one forms a seal around the ear and is usually found in all noise cancelation headphones.

2. How much do headphones typically cost?

The range is wide. You can find one for $10 too but as the features increase, so do the price.

3. Can headphones cause hearing loss?

Only if you misuse them. Try to lessen your use of them if you feel any issues.

4. Which wired headphones are the best?

You can try Sony and AT, both of them have excellent quality.

5. Which headphone has the best quality?

Sony has made its name in the market as the best.