Top 5 Headphones Under $100: Best Value Review

Do you dream of amazing sound without emptying your wallet? It feels like the best headphones always come with a huge price tag, right? Finding great audio gear that fits a tight budget can feel like a real treasure hunt. So many choices flood the market when you look for headphones under $100. You worry about getting something cheap that breaks fast or sounds terrible.

This guide cuts through the noise! We know you want quality, comfort, and reliability without spending too much money. We have tested and reviewed the top contenders in this popular price range. By reading on, you will learn exactly which headphones deliver the best bang for your buck.

Get ready to discover your next favorite pair of affordable headphones. We will show you the hidden gems so you can stop guessing and start listening. Let’s dive into the best budget-friendly audio experiences available today!

Top Headphones Less Than 100 Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1
CN-Outlet Wholesale Kids Bulk Earbuds Headphones 100 Pack Multi Colored Individually Bagged Disposable Earphones Perfect for School Classroom Libraries Students
  • Bulk Earphones 100 Pack, 8 different colors mixed, Red Green Blue White Orange Yellow Pink Purple, each individually opp packaged
  • Earbuds Cheap But Good, Stereo sound clear and balanced, Less than 1 dollar a piece best class set of headphones for students
  • Length 3.6 foot cord with 3.5mm plug enables the headphone to be compatible with iPad Chromebook and PC
  • Great for Kids, Children, Students, Classrooms, Schools, Libraries, Museums, Test center and Shared space
  • CN-Outlet Service:Damaged in 6 months, free replacement, Please inform us through the Amazon order email FIRST, Please feel free to purchase, If you need color On-Ear Headphones you can also search us ASIN: B07R8P6TFH
Bestseller No. 2
HURKEYE Bluetooth Headphones Neckband 100 Hours Extra Long Playback with Microphone Headset, 4 Speakers Heavy Bass Noise Reduction in Ear Wireless Earbuds Waterproof Running Workout (Black)
  • 100 Hours Playtime -- The earphones neckband bluetooth, a single charge delivers days of listening.
  • 4-Speakers Effects Design -- The bluetooth headphones with neckband, 4 moving coil speakers, Support game low-latency mode, support three sound effects switching.
  • Fast Charging -- Wireless earbuds with neckband, using TYPE-C fast charging interface, the product supports high-current fast charging function, supports four-grid power display, can be used for 10 hours after 10 minutes of charging, and is fully charged in about 1.5 hours.
  • Easy to Use -- HURKEYE blue tooth earphones are compatible with all bluetooth enabled devices, like android phones, ios devices, laptops and so on. It has a built in microphone for clear phone calls, and it is also compatible with Siri and Android voice assistant.
  • Waterproof-- Around the neck headphones, a waterproof casing protects Hurkeye neckband Bluetooth headphones against rain, water, and more.
Bestseller No. 3
Avantree Quartet-Extra - 2.4G RF Wireless Add-On Headphones Quartet Multiple Listening System, Scalable to 100
  • [ONLY WORKS WITH QUARTET] This single pair of 2.4G wireless headphones is an add-on for the Avantree Quartet bundle (sold separately). Add up to 100 of these headphones to the Quartet bundle and enjoy an outdoor movie or silent concert without disturbing the neighbors.
  • [LESS DELAYS, BETTER QUALITY] The Quartet-Extra headphones feature 2.4G technology and NOT Bluetooth. This reduces the audio lag down to ~30ms -- significantly less than the 220ms of standard Bluetooth and even the 40ms of aptX Low Latency. This also improves overall sound quality due to 2.4G's higher bit rate & extended bandwidth.
  • [INDIVIDUAL VOLUME CONTROL] Each pair of wireless headphones are equipped with built-in individual volume controls, so everyone can listen at their own desired volume.
  • [LIGHTWEIGHT & COMFORTABLE] These headphones are ergonomically designed to be lightweight and flexible, featuring soft memory foam earpads and an adjustable headband. Enjoy all-day, pressure-free use. NOTE: Replaceable earpads are available for purchase.
  • [EXTENDED PLAYTIME] With a battery life of up to 20 hours, these headphones will last through your longest movie or concert sessions with time to spare.
Bestseller No. 4
Koss KPH7 Colors On Ear Headphones
  • Connects with your devices via a cord to ensure worry-free signal quality while listening
  • Hear low subs and soaring vocals with a frequency range of sound from 80 Hz-18 kHz
  • Sharp looking over-head design provides you a comfortable fit
Bestseller No. 5
OSSZIT Kids Bulk Earbuds 100 Pack Wholesale Earbuds Headphones Bulk Perfect for School Classroom Libraries Students Multi Colored Individually Bagged
  • Bulk Earphones 100 Pack, 10 different colors mixed:Black,Red,Green,Light Blue,Dark Blue,White,Orange,Yellow,Pink,Purple.each individually opp packaged
  • Earbuds Cheap But Good, Stereo sound clear and balanced, Less than 1 dollar a piece best class set of headphones for students
  • Length 3.6 foot cord with 3.5mm plug enables the headphone to be compatible with iPad Chromebook and PC
  • Great for Kids, Children, Students, Classrooms, Schools, Libraries, Museums, Test center and Shared space
  • OSSZIT Service: If you have any questions,please contact us,we will solve for you within 12 hours give you the most satisfying reply
Bestseller No. 6
ZNXZXP Headphones Bulk 100 Pack for School Classroom Student Computer Earphones Class Set of Headphones for Students Online Lesson and Testing (10 Colors)
  • 100 packs of 10 Colors Wired Classroom Headphones Bulk for Schools Classrooms Families
  • Bulk Headphones great for Sound Quality and the Students Enjoy the Leather Ear Covers- very Soft and Comfy
  • Upgraded the ruggedized 3.5mm plug, you don't have to worry about using it for less than one school year, these are sturdy headphones
  • Adjustable Over Ear Headset,over ear Headphone has an adjustable headband,which fits your head shape
  • Student over the head earbud uses good material to make the Headphone portable and suitable for most Students and adults,Suitable for people aged 12 and above handling daily listening tasks
Bestseller No. 7
100 Pack Bulk Wired Earphones, In Ear Earbud Headphones with 3.5mm Jack, 4ft Tangle Free Cable, Comfortable Fit, Affordable and Cost Effective, Ideal for School Classroom Testing Students, Mix
  • Bulk Earphones 100 Pack, Mixed 10 Colors, Each Individually OPP Packaged, Red, Pink, Blue, Green, Purple, Orange, Yellow, Gray, White and Black.
  • The ideal set of headphones for classes and students. Earbuds that cost less than $1 per piece and have stereo sound that is clean and balanced.
  • The headphones' 4-foot wire and 3.5mm L shaped plug make them compatible with iPad, Chromebooks, and PCs.
  • Excellent for classrooms, schools, libraries, museums, test centers, and shared spaces.
  • Redskypower warranty: If your product is damaged within three months of the order, we'll provide a free replacement. Redskypower satisfaction: If you're not completely satisfied with your product, we'll issue a refund.
Bestseller No. 8
Avantree Shift - Wireless TV Multiple Headphones Pack, Ideal for Watching 2 or More TVs, with Cross-Compatibility, Pass-Through, Long Range, Scalable to 3 Transmitters and 100 Headphones
  • [SWITCH BETWEEN TVS] The Avantree Shift is perfect for homes with 2 or more TVs. The headphones & transmitters are fully cross-compatible, making it easy to use one or both pairs of headphones with either TV + transmitter setup.
  • [SIMPLE & QUICK] In order to use, simply turn on the headphones and the transmitters and switch both of them to the same channel. They’ll automatically connect, so you won’t need to manually pair. If you want to use the headphones with the other transmitter, all you’ll need to do is swap the channel to match that transmitter’s.
  • [NO LIP-SYNC DELAY] A latency of less than 30ms ensures a perfectly synced visual & audio experience at a range of up to 100ft / 30m.
  • [ADD MORE HEADPHONES] Add an extra Shift transmitter and up to 100 Shift-Extra headphones to your setup. The Shift retains its cross-compatibility when adding an extra Shift transmitter and / or headphones.
  • [PASS-THROUGH SUPPORT] The Shift’s pass-through capabilities allow you to listen through both an external speaker and your Shift headphones simultaneously.

The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding the Best Headphones Under $100

Finding great headphones without spending a fortune is totally possible! This guide helps you pick the best pair under $100. We look at what matters most so your music sounds awesome.

Key Features to Look For

When you shop, check these features first. They make a big difference in how you enjoy your audio.

1. Sound Quality (Drivers)

  • Driver Size: Bigger drivers (like 40mm) often move more air. This usually means better bass. Small drivers are fine for casual listening.
  • Frequency Response: Look for a wide range, like 20Hz to 20,000Hz. This covers all the sounds humans can hear.

2. Connection Type

  • Wired (3.5mm Jack): These usually offer the most reliable connection and often better sound quality for the price. No batteries needed!
  • Wireless (Bluetooth): Check the Bluetooth version (like 5.0 or higher). Newer versions use less battery and keep the connection steady.

3. Comfort and Fit

  • Earcup Style: Over-ear cups cover your whole ear and are usually most comfortable for long sessions. On-ear cups sit on your ear and are often smaller.
  • Weight: Lighter headphones mean less neck strain during long listening times.

4. Battery Life (For Wireless Models)

Aim for at least 15 to 20 hours of playtime on a single charge. Quick charging is a bonus for busy days.

Important Materials That Matter

The materials used affect how long your headphones last and how comfortable they feel.

Durability and Build

  • Headband: Metal hinges offer the best strength. Plastic headbands are lighter but can snap if bent too far.
  • Earpads: Soft materials like velour or protein leather feel nice against your skin. Protein leather is easier to wipe clean.

Portability

Look for headphones that fold up. This keeps them safe when you toss them in your backpack.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Some features boost performance, while skipping others can hurt your experience.

Quality Boosters

  • Good Codecs (Wireless): If you buy wireless, check for aptX support. This helps send higher-quality audio over Bluetooth.
  • Clear Microphones: If you take calls often, make sure the microphone quality is good.

Quality Reducers

  • Too Much Clamping Force: If the headphones squeeze your head too tightly, you will stop using them quickly.
  • Cheap Wires: Thin, easily tangled cables will break faster. Look for braided cables if you choose wired.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about where you will use your new headphones most often.

Commuting and Travel

For noisy buses or trains, look for models that offer good passive noise isolation (meaning the earcups block sound well). Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is rare under $100, but some budget models include basic versions.

Exercise

If you sweat, you need an IP rating (like IPX4). This rating shows resistance to water splashes. Look for secure ear hooks or a snug fit.

Studying or Office Work

Comfort is king here. A built-in microphone for video calls is essential. Good sound isolation helps you focus.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Headphones Under $100

Q: Do headphones under $100 sound bad?

A: No, not anymore! Many brands offer surprisingly crisp sound quality in this price range, especially for casual listening or podcasts.

Q: Should I choose wired or wireless for under $100?

A: If sound fidelity is your top priority, choose wired. If convenience is more important, choose wireless, but expect slightly less premium features.

Q: What is a good battery life expectation?

A: You should look for at least 15 hours of playback time for a solid wireless option.

Q: Can I get Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) in this price range?

A: It is rare, but some brands offer very basic ANC. Usually, you get better passive noise isolation (a tight seal) for under $100.

Q: What does “Driver Size” mean?

A: The driver is the small speaker inside the earcup. Larger drivers often produce deeper bass sounds.

Q: Are Bluetooth headphones reliable under $100?

A: Yes, if they use Bluetooth 5.0 or newer. This keeps the connection stable and saves battery life.

Q: How important is the IP rating?

A: It is very important if you plan to use them while working out. It tells you how sweat-proof they are.

Q: How do I know if they will fit my head?

A: Check user reviews about clamping force. If many people say they squeeze too hard, skip those models.

Q: What is the best use case for cheap headphones?

A: They are perfect for backup pairs, kids, or daily commuting where you worry less about losing or damaging them.

Q: Should I worry about codecs like SBC or AAC?

A: For budget headphones, you usually get SBC. If you see AAC or aptX, that is a bonus, meaning slightly better wireless sound transmission.