Affordable headphones that are still high-quality
Updated
9Product Reviews
As a team that has tested and reviewed numerous headphones, we're no strangers to their high prices.
Many top-tier options will cost you a few hundred dollars – consider Sony, Bose, or Apple. While it's important to consider quality and longevity with big purchases like this, many of us don't have the option of buying such an expensive pair, even if they will last us for years to come.
However, there are some options out there that do an excellent job for a fraction of the price. We've picked out options that all fall under $150 (with some sales to help). However, you'll find many come in under the $100 mark.
These are the pairs to buy if you want high quality for less.
NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.
JBL Tune 770NC Adaptive Noise Cancelling Headphones
9Product Reviews
This pair of headphones from JBL is usually $199.95, but a discount has them reduced to $148 for now. While they're not the cheapest pair, they're promising in what they have to offer. Featuring active noise cancellation with an 'Ambient Aware' feature, you can either block out the noise around you or listen in as needed. They feature a wireless Bluetooth connection to your phone, with a range of settings available to tweak via the JBL Headphones app. They also offer 70 hours of playtime and ultra-quick charging.
Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Headphones
9Product Reviews
Usually $99.95, the Sony WH-CH520 headphones are currently just $68. With a light and comfortable design, they offer up to 50 hours of battery life – making them perfect for road trips or long-haul flights. They promise excellent sound quality, which can be adjusted via the Sony Headphones Connect App, as well as multipoint connection, allowing you to seamlessly switch between listening to your phone and laptop.
They also come in six different colours, so you're spoilt for choice.
CMF Headphone Pro Wireless Headphones
9Product Reviews / CMF
The CMF Headphone Pro by Nothing offers some serious value for under $150. They have great, customisable sound via the Nothing app with intuitive controls featuring physical, tactile buttons. Plus, these headphones have noise cancellation and can last up to 100 hours.
Kogan NC45 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
9Product Reviews
These super affordable headphones have all the functions you need for easy listening. Kogan members can grab them for $24.99, while non-members will pay $29,99. With up to 35 hours of battery life (and just two hours of charging to reach full battery), you'll be able to go days at a time without worrying about plugging them in. Currently, the Kogan NC45 ANC Headphones have a 4.33/5 star rating on Kogan.
SoundPEATS Space Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones
9Product Reviews
Another price drop! The SoundPEATS Space Over-Ear Noise-Cancelling Headphones are my personal choice when it comes to affordable pairs. We personally enjoyed their noise-cancellation capacity and excellent battery life (123 hours!). Best of all, they cost well below $150, with a sale bringing them down to $59.84 today.
READ MORE: These $75 headphones are shockingly good
Soundcore Q20i Hybrid Noise Cancelling Headphones
9Product Reviews
The Soundcore Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are another strong option coming in under $100. They have two internal and two external microphones that detect noise, reducing it by up to 90 per cent. They offer 40 hours of battery life in ANC mode and 60 hours in regular mode, but a five-minute charge will provide up to four hours of battery life. They also feature a multipoint connection and an accompanying app, allowing you to fine-tune the EQ.
Soundcore C40i Clip-On Earbuds
9Product Reviews
Another option from Soundcore, these clip-on headphones are gaining popularity. Now 21 per cent off on Soundcore, you can get them for $85.99. Featuring an open-ear design, they help you remain situationally aware by not blocking off your ears. They feature physical touch controls and multipoint connection, making them ideal for work.
Soundcore P20i True Wireless Earbuds
9Product Reviews
The Soundcore P20i True Wireless Earbuds are an in-ear option that offers a powerful bass sound through its 10mm drivers. They have 10 hours of battery life via a single charge, but their charging case will extend this to 30 hours. The Soundcore app will help you find an EQ preset that suits you, and also has a helpful 'find my earbud' function that emits a sound from the earbud if you lose it.
READ MORE: Nothing Headphones are a must-see, but are they a must-buy?