Finding an inexpensive pair of headphones without sacrificing quality, comfort, or longevity can be tough. With so many enticing products available, making a decision can be confusing. But you can find excellent wired and wireless models at very reasonable prices. This refreshed list covers the best headphones under $150 that are still sold new and priced below $150.
If you want a refresher on what matters most, read the buying guide at the end of this post before browsing the picks.
Key takeaway
Our refreshed 2026 list features seven models that are still sold new and priced under $150: the Sony WH-CH520, JBL Tune 510BT, AKG K72, Sennheiser HD 280 PRO, Audio-Technica ATH-M40x, Sony MDR7506, and Austrian Audio Hi-X15. Each pick was checked against a live manufacturer or major retailer listing, and every price shown was confirmed on a live page.
Top 7 Best Headphones Under $150
1. Sony WH-CH520 – Best Budget Wireless Pick
The Sony WH-CH520 is one of the cheapest wireless on-ear headphones from a major brand, and an easy pick for anyone shopping on a tight budget. According to Sony’s listing, it offers up to 50 hours of battery life with quick charging, Bluetooth 5.2 with multipoint connection for pairing two devices at once, a built-in microphone for calls, and customizable sound through the EQ Custom feature in the Sony Headphones Connect app. Note that it does not offer active noise cancellation; this is a closed-back on-ear model. Sony lists the WH-CH520 at $69.99, and it was on sale for $39.99 when we checked, comfortably under the $150 budget.
2. JBL Tune 510BT – Best Affordable Wireless Pick
JBL’s Tune 510BT are wireless on-ear headphones with JBL Pure Bass Sound, Bluetooth 5.0, and up to 40 hours of battery life. They fold flat for easy carrying. At $49.95 on JBL’s own store, they are a simple and affordable wireless option.
3. AKG K72 – Best Budget Studio Pick
The AKG K72 are closed-back over-ear headphones aimed at studio-style listening on a budget. They were listed as in stock on Sweetwater at $79.00 when we checked.
4. Sennheiser HD 280 PRO – Best Tangle-Free Cable
Sennheiser’s HD 280 PRO are high-quality wired headphones, and the cable is coiled and one-sided, so it stays tangle-free. The cable is robust and has a UniMatch plug that supports both 3.5mm and 6.3mm use. The bass and mid notes are clear, detailed, and accurate, and the highs are very clear. These are not the best choice for bassheads, since the bass lacks the aggressiveness some listeners want. Their excellent sound isolation gives you the sense of being at a concert. They are built for a sturdy studio look rather than fashion, and there is enough padding to keep them comfortable, although the foam-padded ear cups can make your ears warm over time. Sennheiser lists the HD 280 PRO at $99.95.
5. Audio-Technica ATH-M40x – Best for Studio Monitoring
The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x are professional studio monitor headphones, tuned flat for accurate sound monitoring. They feature robust, collapsible construction, two detachable cables, and a closed-back design that helps keep outside noise out. Audio-Technica lists the ATH-M40x at $109.00 with free 2-day shipping.
6. Sony MDR7506 – Studio Classic
The Sony MDR7506 is a long-running studio classic for anyone who needs high-quality studio headphones without paying too much. Their 40mm drivers produce clear audio across a 10Hz to 20kHz frequency range. They put a bit of emphasis on the lows and mids without producing heavy bass. They are good for commuters since they fold up and toss into a bag easily. The earpads lack foam padding, so your ears might feel a bit uncomfortable over long sessions. They are made for music production but work for everyday listening too. The cable is not detachable, so handle it with care, although it is sturdy and thick enough to last. Sony lists the MDR7506 at $114.99.
7. Austrian Audio Hi-X15 – Best Just Under $150
The Austrian Audio Hi-X15 are closed-back over-ear headphones built for studio-style listening, and at $149.00 they sit right at the top of this budget. They were listed as in stock on Sweetwater at $149.00 when we checked, which keeps them just under the $150 limit.
What to Look for When Buying Affordable Headphones?
Finding a perfect pair of headphones without having to pay too much money is a challenging task because there are certain factors you must check off your list before making a purchase. Below is a list of the most critical factors you should consider.
Frequency Response Rate
A good pair of headphones should be able to produce frequencies between 20Hz to 20KHz. Some headphones produce a wider frequency range. But note that wider frequency ranges don’t mean better sound quality.
Ambient Noise
If you don’t want to hear the surrounding noises, make sure the pair you buy can block ambient noise. I highly recommend this because it spares you from having to raise the volume of the song and so protects your ears.
Wired vs. Wireless
Both types of headphones have their pros and cons. For example, wired headphones won’t run out of battery, and you’ll always have them at your service. However, they are not the best type to have on the road, as the cables might get tangled and distract you.
On the other hand, wireless headphones allow you to answer phone calls using controls on the microphone. Also, many of them are water-resistant, so you can use them in the rain with no worries.
Connectivity Range
If you go for wireless headphones, you have to pay attention to their connectivity option. For example, some use Bluetooth and others rely on NFC. I prefer Bluetooth connectivity because it has a wider connectivity range of around 30 feet, while NFC has a 20-cm range.
Battery Life
The main drawback of Bluetooth headphones is that they drain the battery, and that’s why you should pick a pair with long battery life. Otherwise, the headphones might run out of battery while you’re listening to music.
Final Thoughts
Picking headphones under $150 does not have to be hard when every model on this list is verified as available and under budget. If you want wireless on a tight budget, the Sony WH-CH520 and JBL Tune 510BT are the cheapest picks. For studio-style sound, the AKG K72, Audio-Technica ATH-M40x, Sony MDR7506, and Austrian Audio Hi-X15 all cost under $150, and the Sennheiser HD 280 PRO is a sturdy wired all-rounder. If your budget stretches a little higher, see our roundups of the best headphones under $200 and the best headphones under $300.
FAQs About Headphones Under 150
Do earbuds mic?
Most modern earbud models include a microphone, and some more expensive earbuds have multiple mics to improve sound quality. The microphone is typically found in the right earbud or, in some cases, at the wire that connects one bud to the other.
Is Skullcandy a good brand?
Skullcandy’s headphones are generally reasonably priced. This could be due to their somewhat plasticky build quality. It’s better than some super cheap brands, but it doesn’t feel as sturdy as other affordable models. The sound quality is mediocre.
Are JBL earphones good?
JBL complements the high-quality and stylish finish, which not only provides good sound quality but also durability. Logitech’s high-quality in-ear, over-ears, and on-ear headphones are popular among audiophiles because they are mostly wireless, Bluetooth-enabled, and lightweight.
Watch this:
Top 5 BEST Budget Wireless Headphones of [2023]
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