You Really Can Upgrade Your Headphones Without Spending a Fortune

Believe it or not, you really can score great-quality headphones for less than a Benjamin. Today’s market is full of amazing options in various forms and sub-$100 price points, with reliable offerings from big-name audio makers starting below $10. But which ones are actually worth buying?

After weeks of research and extensive testing, we’ve put together a list of headphones under $100 for every lifestyle. Whether you’re a hi-fi fan, a frequent traveler, a workout warrior, or just someone who’s looking for a new pair of cans, we’ve selected headphones that’ll fit your needs.

The Best Headphones Under $100

1. Best Overall: Soundcore Life Q30 Wireless Headphones
2. Best Wireless On-Ear Headphones: Jabra Elite 45h Wireless Headphones
3. Compact, Stylish, and Versatile: Status Audio BT One Wireless On-Ear Headphones
4. Affordable Noise-Cancellation: Sony MDR-ZX110NC Noise-Canceling Headphones
5. Most Affordable Beats: Beats EP Wired On-Ear Headphones
6. Best Under $50: Soundcore Life Q10 Wireless Headphones
7. The Wired Over-Ear Pick: Status Audio CB-1 Wired Over-Ear Headphones
8. Best for Working Out: Plantronics BackBeat FIT 6100 Wireless Headphones
9. Best Under $10: Sony MDR-ZX110 Wired On-Ear Headphones
10. Most Eco-Friendly: House of Marley Positive Vibration XL Wireless Headphones
    
11. Retro Design: Koss Porta Pro Wired On-Ear Headphones

What to Consider

Start your search for the best headphones under $100 by determining how you want to listen to music. Choose between wired or wireless, on- or over-ear, as well as open- or closed-back options. Each has unique advantages and shortcomings you need to know about.

• Wired vs. wireless: Wireless headphones are undeniably more convenient than their wired siblings. However, when it comes to sound quality, wired headphones might have an edge over similarly priced Bluetooth products. Some of our top picks can deliver an equally stellar audio performance in wired and wireless mode, as well as great battery life.
• Over-ear vs. on-ear: Choosing between over- and on-ear headphones is a matter of personal preference, though there are a few things to keep in mind. Even though they are bigger and heavier than on-ear headphones, over-ear cans are comfier and better suited for longer use, since they're designed to fit around your ears and eliminate pressure on your ears.
• Additional features: Some of our top picks have built-in noise-canceling tech and compatibility with Hi-Res Audio content (in wired mode). Once reserved for high-priced products, app-enabled sound customization tools and clever additional features are also available at this price point.

Now that you know what to look for in a great pair of headphones under $100, find the best for your lifestyle among these thoroughly evaluated picks.