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Best Headphones under $200
We tested headphones under $200 across ANC, design, battery, and comfort.
September 26, 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
Filter
- Compare tableProductVotes
- 4 total votes4 total votes
$200
8.4
7.6
8.4
6.9
7.7
8.0
9.5
7.5
9.9
9.0
9.0
- 12 total votes12 total votes
$80
8.3
7.2
8.1
6.7
9.5
8.0
7.5
7.7
9.9
9.5
8.5
- 4 total votes4 total votes
$100
8.2
7.1
8.0
6.5
9.0
7.5
9.0
7.0
9.8
9.0
8.0
- 0 total votes0 total votes
$130
8.1
6.1
7.3
7.5
8.4
7.0
7.5
8.5
9.9
9.0
8.3
- 1 total votes1 total votes
$80
7.9
7.2
8.0
6.0
9.5
6.0
9.0
7.0
9.9
8.5
8.0
- 0 total votes0 total votes
$180
7.9
5.0
7.4
6.9
8.2
7.0
8.5
7.0
9.8
8.8
8.6
- 0 total votes0 total votes
$148
7.7
5.2
6.7
6.5
6.8
7.0
9.0
7.5
9.7
8.0
8.6
- 0 total votes0 total votes
$149
7.6
4.2
6.5
6.0
7.5
7.0
9.0
7.6
9.9
7.9
8.2
- 0 total votes0 total votes
$200
7.4
7.5
8.5
6.5
4.0
6.0
9.0
7.0
9.0
9.0
8.0
- 0 total votes0 total votes
$198
7.1
3.4
0.0
6.9
7.7
7.6
9.0
7.3
9.9
7.2
6.9
- 0 total votes0 total votes
$61
6.9
6.3
7.3
5.5
8.0
5.0
8.0
7.0
9.9
7.0
5.0
- 2 total votes2 total votes
$70
6.9
6.9
7.9
6.0
9.0
7.0
9.0
7.0
0.0
8.5
8.0
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 recommend Sony ULT WEAR as our best overall pick because it combines strong noise cancellation, long battery life, and a full feature set. In our standardized battery test the ULT WEAR lasted 32 hours and 35 minutes, and their ANC-plus-isolation approach consistently attenuates more than 25dB above 80Hz, which makes them well suited for commutes and travel. Our MDAQS context shows these cans lean toward heavy bass out of the box, so we recommend using the Sony Sound Connect app to tame the ULT button’s bass boost. The headphones support Bluetooth 5.2 with LDAC and multipoint, fold flat for travel, and offer a touch-and-button control layout for everyday use. This model also earned recognition for Best ANC, Best Battery Life, Best Call Quality, Best Over-Ear Headphones, Best for iPhone users, and Best Comfort, reflecting a well-rounded set of strengths.
Best Value pick: JLab JBuds Lux ANC
We consider JLab JBuds Lux ANC the best value pick because it delivers ANC, an app with a 10-band EQ, and very long battery life for a bargain segment offering. The JBuds Lux ran 44 hours and 22 minutes in our battery test and includes fast charging that returns hours of playback from a short top-up. ANC is modest compared with pricier rivals — roughly 10–20dB under 700Hz — but the ear cups provide strong high-frequency isolation, and the app makes EQ fixes straightforward. Sound-wise the model posts a solid MDAQS-style performance (noted at 4.5 in our testing notes), and JLab’s customization options help improve the out-of-box tuning. This model also earned Best Sound Quality recognition alongside its Best Value badge.
Best Sound Quality pick: JBL Live 670NC
We pick the JBL Live 670NC for sound quality because it delivers JBL’s signature, pleasingly energetic presentation and strong measured audio performance. On our MDAQS scale the Live 670NC earned a high score (noted at 4.8 in the review), and the headphones offer a usable 10-band EQ in the JBL app for further tailoring. ANC performance approaches 30dB of attenuation around 250Hz, and the Live 670NC exceeded advertised battery life in our test with 54 hours and 57 minutes of playback. The on-ear design is compact and portable, and features like adaptive noise canceling, Ambient Aware, and TalkThru give flexible options for commuting or office use.
Best for Android users pick: Anker Soundcore Space One
We recommend the Anker Soundcore Space One as the best pick for Android users thanks to Bluetooth 5.3, LDAC support, and a capable companion app with HearID and an eight-band EQ. In our battery test the Space One lasted 42 hours and 57 minutes with ANC on, and the headphones offer multipoint pairing and an included auxiliary cable for wired listening. The Soundcore app provides adaptive ANC controls, a decibel meter, and custom EQ options, which together make these cans very flexible for Android ecosystems. While they don’t pass audio over USB-C, their codec support and app features make them a strong fit for users who prioritize Android-compatible high-bitrate streaming.
Our verdict
Across wireless and wired-friendly options under $200, our picks balance noise canceling, battery life, and sound quality. The Sony ULT WEAR is the most rounded choice with effective ANC, useful app customization, and solid battery life, while the JBL Live 670NC stands out if you want the most refined sound signature and higher MDAQS results. The JLab JBuds Lux ANC is the value winner — long battery and an adjustable EQ make it a smart budget buy — and the Anker Soundcore Space One is the best match for Android users who want LDAC and deep app features.
EarFun Wave Pro, Sennheiser ACCENTUM Wireless, and the Sony WH-XB910N are worthy alternatives: the EarFun Wave Pro offers exceptional battery life (about 52.5 hours), basic ANC, and LDAC on a budget; the Sennheiser ACCENTUM Wireless focuses on sound quality with USB-C audio and roughly 46 hours of runtime; and the Sony WH-XB910N targets bass-focused listeners with wired options and comfortable fit despite some touch-control quirks. Together these products cover a range of needs within the wireless and wired headphone category and the $0–$200 price band reflected in your filters.
FAQ
Consumers and manufacturers alike have realized that isolation is a greater challenge with on-ear headphones, and they sometimes clamp too tightly. Even so, you can’t deny that on-ears are portable compared to over-ear headphones.
On-ear headphones offer a balanced compromise between sound quality and portability. While they don’t provide the same level of immersion as over-ear models, they deliver respectable audio performances suitable for most music genres.
Comfort is subjective and depends on individual preference. Over-ear headphones usually provide a more comfortable fit for extended periods, thanks to their cushioned ear cups that enclose the ears. On-ear models can be lighter but may apply pressure directly to the ears, which some people find uncomfortable over time.
Unlike over-ears, on-ear headphones sit directly on top of your ears. They do not often create a seal to your head as well as over-ears can. That looser fit can make them feel lighter and more breathable, which some people find more comfortable for short or casual listening sessions. However, it also means they usually block out less outside noise and may leak sound more easily, especially at higher volumes.
The on-ear design is great for listeners who want many of the benefits of over-ear headphones, without all the added heft. These aren’t quite pocketable as in-ears, but they often include rotating or collapsible hinges for storage. Again, manufacturers can include large batteries into these headphones.
Isolation, the ability for a headset to block out background noise, is difficult with on-ear headphones. An innocent wiggle of the ear could set the whole fit off-kilter, and let in all of the environmental noise around you. This is bad, because good isolation yields optimal audio quality.
Sometimes on-ear headphones can provide very effective isolation at the expense of comfort. This is true for the Beats Solo Pro noise-canceling on-ear headphones, which feel like wearing a vice grip. Another disadvantage: even though they’re easier to carry than over-ear headphones, they’re still cumbersome relative to earbuds.
Not usually. On-ear headphones can slip during intense movement and don’t manage sweat as effectively as earbuds. For workouts, wireless earbuds or bone-conduction headphones are generally better choices.
Not as much as over-ear headphones. Some models include active noise cancelling (ANC), which electronically reduces outside noise, but passive isolation (physical blocking) is usually limited.
Yes, generally more than over-ear or in-ear headphones. Because they don’t create a full seal around your ear, people nearby may hear your music, especially at higher volumes. Closed-back designs leak less than open-back ones.
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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