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Best Headphones under $200
We tested headphones under $200 across ANC, design, battery, and comfort.
November 7, 2025
Adam is an Editor at SoundGuys specializing in gaming headsets, flagship headphones, and earbuds. A lifelong fan of video games and cinema, he brings a sharp ear and passion for immersive sound to every review. Beyond hardware, Adam writes thought-provoking features and opinion pieces that explore how audio tech shapes our lives. Armed with a BA in Cognitive Science, he pairs technical insight with a love for music’s psychological uplift. At home, he still rocks his original Sennheiser MOMENTUM over-ears, switches to Bose QuietComfort Ultra on flights, and relies on Galaxy Buds2 Pro while out and about.
Finding great headphones doesn’t mean spending a fortune — there are plenty of impressive options under $200. We’ve tested hundreds of models in our lab and highlighted the top performers that deliver the best mix of sound, features, and reliability. Our Headphone Score factors in ANC, durability, value, design, connectivity, portability, battery life, and comfort, so you can shop confidently knowing these picks excel across the board.
Compare table
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- Compare tableProductVotes
- 34 total votes34 total votes
$200
8.4
7.6
8.4
6.9
7.7
8.0
7.5
9.5
9.9
9.0
9.0
- 24 total votes24 total votes
$80
8.3
7.2
8.1
6.7
9.5
8.0
7.7
7.5
9.9
9.5
8.5
- 13 total votes13 total votes
$100
8.2
7.1
8.0
6.5
9.0
7.5
7.0
9.0
9.8
9.0
8.0
- 9 total votes9 total votes
$130
8.1
6.1
7.3
7.5
8.4
7.0
8.5
7.5
9.9
9.0
8.3
- 3 total votes3 total votes
$80
7.9
7.2
8.0
6.0
9.5
6.0
7.0
9.0
9.9
8.5
8.0
- 1 total votes1 total votes
$180
7.9
5.0
7.4
6.9
8.2
7.0
7.0
8.5
9.8
8.8
8.6
- 1 total votes1 total votes
$84
7.7
7.0
8.1
6.5
6.5
8.0
7.0
8.0
9.8
8.0
8.0
- 0 total votes0 total votes
$148
7.7
5.2
6.7
6.5
6.8
7.0
7.5
9.0
9.7
8.0
8.6
- 3 total votes3 total votes
$149
7.6
4.2
6.5
6.0
7.5
7.0
7.6
9.0
9.9
7.9
8.2
- 0 total votes0 total votes
$200
7.5
3.6
0.0
8.5
7.0
7.0
7.0
8.5
9.9
9.0
8.5
- 1 total votes1 total votes
$200
7.4
7.5
8.5
6.5
4.0
6.0
7.0
9.0
9.0
9.0
8.0
- 2 total votes2 total votes
$198
7.1
3.4
0.0
6.9
7.7
7.6
7.3
9.0
9.9
7.2
6.9
Product chart
In the chart above, you can see how each of the headphones compares in terms of price and performance.
To gather information about how well each of the earbuds and headphones work, we subject each product to a number of objective tests. We use a Bruel & Kjaer 5128 acoustic measurement system to test headphones and earbuds in our SoundGuys lab. The ear canal of the artificial head was created by averaging and smoothing 3D models of individual ear canal features from the MRI scans of 40 different people.
We perform the following testing to determine the best headphones and best earbuds:
- We run sequences to determine the best fit of the headphones, and if there are any manufacturing issues with the product.
- We measure the headphones’ performance and compare the frequency response to our industry-validated SoundGuys Headphone Preference Curve to give context to readers.
- To rate sound quality, we use the Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Scores (MDAQS) algorithm from HEAD acoustics. These are virtual mean opinion scores as calculated by a powerful machine learning model based on the input of real listeners.
- We play several samples of shaped noise over loudspeakers to test noise canceling and record with our artificial head. We take samples with ANC on, ANC off, and with the headphones off the head. After subtracting the appropriate curves from each other, we can see how well the headphones block out noise.
- To evaluate microphone quality, we play pre-recorded spoken Harvard sentences from a calibrated artificial mouth in our test chamber, either with or without simulated background noises, simulated reverberant spaces, or artificial wind.
- To measure battery life, we play back music through the headphones or earbuds peaking at 75dB(SPL), a safe and realistic listening level.
In addition to objective testing, our team of audio experts uses each of the headphones and earbuds to evaluate the experience of using the product. By wearing the headphones in day-to-day use, we evaluate the comfort, noting any pain points. We also make sure to try out each of the features that the headphones have to offer, such as using the equalizer in the companion app.
Using a combination of subjective and objective testing, we score each product. To learn more about how we evaluate headphones and earbuds, check out our in-depth explainer on how we test.
Here at SoundGuys, we’ve been testing audio products for over a decade. Our team comprises audio product experts who have tested hundreds of different headphones, earbuds, and speakers. Moreover, our team comes from diverse backgrounds and a wealth of expertise, including audio engineering, film production, journalism, podcasting, music production, and even touring musicians.
Everything we recommend results from our objective measurements and great subjective experiences. Ultimately, we want you to enjoy your purchase or, at the very least, leave our site with a little more knowledge about the inner workings of audio. To see why you can trust us with your purchase decision, make sure to check out our ethics policy.
Poll
How much are you willing to spend on good headphones?
Best overall pick: Sony ULT WEAR
We picked the Sony ULT WEAR as our Best overall pick because it balances long battery life, effective ANC, and modern wireless features. In our standardized battery test it lasted 32 hours and 35 minutes, and the combination of active cancelation and passive isolation consistently attenuates more than 25dB at frequencies above about 80Hz. The ULT WEAR connects over Bluetooth 5.2 with SBC, AAC, and LDAC support, offers multipoint, and can run wired via the included 3.5mm cable, though it does not support audio over USB-C. The default sound is bass-forward, so we recommend using the Sony Sound Connect app to adjust EQ and rein in the ULT button’s heavy bass setting. Our MDAQS readouts reflect that bass emphasis, and the headphones’ overall package also earned recognition in several areas: they also earned Best ANC, Best Battery Life, Best Call Quality, Best Over-Ear Headphones, Best for iPhone users, and Best for Comfort.
Sourced from Sony ULT WEAR review – SoundGuys.
Best Value pick: JLab JBuds Lux ANC
The JLab JBuds Lux ANC is our Best Value pick, offering a compelling feature set for budget buyers. It held on for 44 hours and 22 minutes in our standardized battery test and supports fast charging that can provide about four hours of listening from a 10-minute charge. The JLab app gives you a 10-band EQ and adjustable ANC modes, and we strongly encourage using EQ to address the headphones’ most notable sound flaws. ANC performance is modest for the price (roughly 10–20dB under 700Hz), but the ear cups create a strong seal that blocks higher-frequency noise very well. The design folds compactly for travel, and connectivity includes Bluetooth 5.3 plus USB-C wired listening.
Sourced from JLab JBuds Lux ANC review – SoundGuys.
Best for Android users pick: Anker Soundcore Space One
The Anker Soundcore Space One is our Best for Android users pick thanks to LDAC support and broad app-based customization. In our battery test it lasted 42 hours and 57 minutes with ANC engaged, and the headphones offer quick-charge ability that yields hours of playback from a very short charge. The Soundcore app includes HearID, an eight-band EQ, adaptive ANC controls, and a decibel meter for safe listening, making these headphones highly adjustable. The Space One uses Bluetooth 5.3, supports multipoint, and includes a wired aux option, though it does not carry audio over USB-C. For Android phones that can take advantage of LDAC, the Space One is a strong, flexible option in this segment.
Sourced from Anker Soundcore Space One review – SoundGuys.
Best Sound Quality pick: JBL Live 670NC
The JBL Live 670NC is our Best Sound Quality pick, pairing an engaging, bass-forward tuning with a high Multi-Dimensional Audio Quality Score. In our battery testing the Live 670NC exceeded expectations with 54 hours and 57 minutes of playback, and its ANC performance approaches about 30dB of attenuation around 250Hz to tame engine rumbles and street noise. The on-ear design makes these headphones especially portable, and JBL supplies a 3.5mm cable for wired travel use. The JBL Headphones app provides customizable EQ presets and a graphic EQ, plus adaptive ANC, Ambient Aware, and TalkThru modes for flexible listening in different environments.
Sourced from JBL Live 670NC review – SoundGuys.
Our verdict
Within the wireless and wired headphones we tested under $200, the Sony ULT WEAR is the best all-around pick for travelers and commuters who want strong ANC, a long battery life, and flexible wired/wireless connectivity, while the JBL Live 670NC is the standout for listeners who prioritize tonal performance and a high MDAQS score. If runtime is your top priority, the JLab JBuds Lux ANC and the EarFun Wave Pro show exceptional endurance in this group (JLab ran for about 44 hours, EarFun for over 52). The Anker Soundcore Space One is the most attractive choice for Android users who want LDAC and deep app customization, and the JLab remains the best value for buyers seeking long battery life on a budget.
Remaining options include the EarFun Wave Pro, which pairs very long battery life with LDAC support and usable ANC at a budget price; the Sennheiser ACCENTUM Wireless, which leans into sound quality with USB-C audio and about 46 hours of runtime; and the Sony WH-XB910N, which targets bass-forward listeners and offers wired flexibility with a 3.5mm cable. Choose based on what matters most—ANC balance and features (Sony), tonal refinement (JBL), Android codec support and customization (Anker), or sheer battery value (JLab).
FAQ
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On-ear rest on your ears, smaller and more portable.
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In-ear (earbuds) fit inside your ear canal, most compact.
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Wired can offer more consistent sound quality and no battery worries.
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Wireless adds freedom of movement, Bluetooth features, and portability.
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Over-ear headphones with strong ANC work best on planes and trains.
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Compact earbuds are great for commuting and portability.
Higher-priced models usually have better ANC, premium materials, wider soundstage, and extra features.
Active Noise Cancelling uses microphones to cancel out external noise for a quieter experience.
Open-back designs allow air and sound to pass through, creating a wider, natural soundstage but leaking sound. Closed-back isolate better and have more bass punch.
No, it’s a premium feature. Multipoint is useful if you switch often between laptop and phone.
Yes, by reducing background noise so you don’t need to turn up the volume. But listening too loud can still cause damage.
Isolation refers to the ability of your headphones to block outside noise from reaching your ears. This might sound like active noise cancelation, but it isn’t. Active noise canceling uses microphones to pick up the sounds that are going on around you and then uses clever processing to cancel them out. In physics, it’s called destructive interference, and you can learn more about that in our article on how noise canceling works, but that isn’t what isolation is.
Isolation is simply having a physical barrier between your ears and the outside noises. Every time you stuff your fingers in your ears, you’re isolating yourself. You might hear certain loud noises around you, but for the most part, sounds are blocked out. A good pair of over-ear headphones can do something similar. They’ll cover your ears and block noises that would otherwise interfere with the music you’re listening to.
Not yet. While Bluetooth has become way better and more convenient in the last few years, it still can’t compete on a technical level with wired over-ear headphones. Sure, we might be a little biased against removing the headphone jack. Still, even our objective testing of the LDAC codec (which is arguably one of the top transfer methods currently available) revealed that Bluetooth falls short. Of course, you probably won’t have to worry about it too much if you’re over the age of 24 because our hearing tends to go a lot sooner than you might realize, but it’s still something you should be aware of. At least for now, wired headphones still reign supreme.
Over-ear headphones generally offer superior sound quality due to their larger drivers and better isolation, which minimizes ambient noise and allows for a more immersive listening experience.
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