Finding the perfect pair of over-ear headphones that balance performance, comfort, and value can be a challenge, especially when working with a budget. The sub-$100 market is incredibly competitive, offering a surprising range of options from trusted audio brands. Whether you are a critical listener, a frequent traveler, or someone who just wants to enjoy music without breaking the bank, there is a compelling set of headphones waiting for you.
This roundup is designed to simplify your search by highlighting ten of the best over-ear headphones available for under $100. We have curated a list that includes both wired studio monitors for pristine audio accuracy and versatile wireless models with long battery life, ensuring you can find the ideal pair to match your specific listening habits and lifestyle needs.
Our Top Picks for Over-Ear Headphones Under $100
- Sony MDRV6 Studio Monitor Headphones
- Avantree Audition – Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones
- Audio-Technica ATH-M40x Professional Studio Monitor
- Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless Bluetooth Headphones
- Audio-Technica ATH-M30x Professional Studio Monitor
- Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Headphones Bluetooth
- JBL Tune 510BT – Bluetooth headphones
- SennheiserHD 350BT Black Bluetooth 5.0 Wireless
- Bose SoundLink Around Ear Wireless Headphones II
- Audio-Technica ATH-M20x Professional Studio Monitor
Sony MDRV6 Studio Monitor Headphones
A long-standing favorite in studio and home listening environments, the Sony MDRV6 headphones are built for accuracy and durability. They feature CCAW voice coils and 40mm drivers powered by neodymium magnets, which work together to produce a clean, powerful, and detailed sound profile that is ideal for critical listening, mixing, and editing.
The over-ear design is engineered for comfort during long sessions while also providing significant reduction of external noises. This makes them a reliable tool for focusing on your audio without distractions, whether you are in a busy room or a quiet studio.
Avantree Audition – Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones
The Avantree Audition headphones offer impressive versatility with their dual wireless and wired modes. In wireless mode, you can enjoy up to 40 hours of battery life, making them perfect for long trips or multi-day use without needing a charge. When the battery is low, simply switch to the included cable for a wired connection.
They are designed with comfort in mind, featuring super soft ear-pads and an adjustable headband for a customized fit. With aptX Hi-Fi technology, these headphones deliver high-resolution sound with a wide audio range, producing rich bass and clear trebles that compete with more expensive models.
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x Professional Studio Monitor
Renowned for their critical listening capabilities, the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x headphones are a step-up choice for audio professionals and enthusiasts. They are equipped with 40mm drivers that feature rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils, engineered to deliver a flat, accurate frequency response ideal for studio monitoring.
The robust construction is built to last, and the circumaural design contours around the ears to effectively isolate sound. For added convenience, the earcups can swivel 90 degrees, making one-ear monitoring easy, and the cables are detachable for simple storage and replacement.
Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless Bluetooth Headphones
For those who prioritize powerful, immersive bass, the Skullcandy Crusher Evo offers a unique multi-sensory experience. The headphones feature two 40mm audio drivers plus additional dual bass drivers, utilizing patented technology to produce bass you can physically feel, adding a new dimension to your music and movies.
With up to 40 hours of battery life and a rapid charge feature that provides 4 hours of play from a 10-minute charge, you are rarely without your audio. You can also personalize your sound profile through the Skullcandy app, which includes a hearing test to tailor the audio to your specific hearing.
Audio-Technica ATH-M30x Professional Studio Monitor
The Audio-Technica ATH-M30x provides an accessible entry point into the world of professional studio sound. They share the same advanced build quality and engineering as their higher-end siblings, featuring 40mm drivers with rare earth magnets for a reliable and accurate audio performance.
Tuned for enhanced detail, these headphones offer excellent mid-range definition, making them particularly well-suited for tracking and critical listening. The over-ear design provides good isolation, allowing you to focus on the nuances of your audio without external interference.
Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Headphones
The Sony WH-CH520 headphones are designed for all-day wear, boasting an impressive battery life of up to 50 hours on a single charge. When you are in a hurry, quick charging provides hours of playback from just a few minutes of being plugged in, ensuring your music is always ready when you are.
Their lightweight build, swivel earcups, and soft ear pads are designed for maximum comfort. You can customize the sound to your preference using the EQ settings in the Sony Headphones Connect App, giving you control over your listening experience.
JBL Tune 510BT – Bluetooth headphones
JBL is known for its powerful bass, and the Tune 510BT headphones deliver exactly that with their renowned JBL Pure Bass sound. This signature audio profile brings the energy of a live concert to your personal listening, making every track feel vibrant and dynamic.
These wireless headphones are not only foldable for easy portability but also feature multi-point connectivity, allowing you to switch seamlessly between two Bluetooth devices. With up to 40 hours of battery life, they are built to keep up with your daily routine without frequent recharging.
SennheiserHD 350BT Black Bluetooth 5.0 Wireless
The Sennheiser HD 350BT brings the brand’s respected audio heritage into the wireless realm. Utilizing Bluetooth 5.0 technology with support for AAC and AptX Low Latency codecs, these headphones ensure a stable, high-quality connection that is perfect for both music and video content.
You get up to 30 hours of battery life with the convenience of USB-C fast charging. Intuitive controls on the earcup include a dedicated button for activating your device’s virtual assistant, providing hands-free help whenever you need it.
Bose SoundLink Around Ear Wireless Headphones II
Bose is synonymous with premium sound, and the SoundLink Around-Ear Wireless Headphones II deliver a deep, immersive listening experience. They feature an improved EQ for what was considered best-in-class performance, providing balanced audio that is both clear and powerful.
Advanced microphone technology with HD voice ensures your call quality remains clear, even in noisy or windy conditions. The reliable Bluetooth connectivity offers easy pairing and maintains a seamless sync between audio and video, making them great for media consumption.
Audio-Technica ATH-M20x Professional Studio Monitor
The Audio-Technica ATH-M20x is an excellent starting point for anyone needing reliable studio-quality sound on a tight budget. These headphones are built with the same professional ethos as the rest of the M-Series, offering a robust construction that can withstand daily use.
They are tuned for accuracy, providing a well-balanced sound that is ideal for tracking and casual listening alike. The over-ear design helps to block out ambient noise, allowing you to concentrate on your audio projects or simply enjoy your music without interruptions.
How to Choose the Best Over-Ear Headphones Under $100
Finding a great pair of over-ear headphones without spending a fortune is totally doable. I have tested many models in this price range, and the key is knowing which features matter most for your needs. You do not need to break the bank to get solid sound quality and comfort. Let us talk about what you should focus on when looking for the best over-ear headphones under $100.
First, think about the sound signature. Do you prefer booming bass for electronic music and hip-hop, or a more balanced, neutral sound for acoustic and classical genres? Many budget-friendly headphones tend to emphasize bass, which can be fun but sometimes muddies the details. Look for reviews that mention a “balanced” or “flat” response if you want accuracy, or “bass-heavy” if that is your priority.
Next, consider the fit. Comfort is king, especially if you plan on wearing them for hours. Look for headphones with ample padding on the ear cups and headband. The clamping force—how tightly they grip your head—is also important. Too loose, and they will fall off; too tight, and you will get a headache. Adjustable, swiveling ear cups can help you get a perfect, comfortable seal.
Another major decision is wired versus wireless. Wireless headphones offer freedom from cables, which is great for commuting or working out. They use Bluetooth to connect, but remember to check their battery life; you will want at least 20 hours on a single charge. Wired headphones, on the other hand, never need charging and often provide a slightly better sound quality for the price, as they do not require internal batteries and DACs. Many wireless models also include a cable for a wired option, giving you the best of both worlds.
Do not forget about features like active noise cancellation (ANC). While premium ANC is expensive, it is becoming more common in budget models. It is not going to be as powerful as on $300 pairs, but it can still make a noticeable difference on a bus or in a noisy office. If you take a lot of calls, look for models with a good built-in microphone. Finally, think about build quality. Some headphones are foldable and come with a case, making them much more portable. Plastic builds are common at this price, but a sturdy, well-constructed plastic will last much longer than a flimsy one. By balancing these factors—sound, comfort, connectivity, and features—you can confidently find a pair of the 10 best over-ear headphones under $100 in 2025 that feels like it was made just for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are over-ear headphones under $100 actually any good?
Absolutely. The technology has trickled down so much that the performance gap between budget and premium headphones is smaller than ever. While you might not get the absolute top-tier build materials or the most advanced noise cancellation, you can absolutely find pairs with excellent sound quality, solid comfort, and reliable features. Brands are competing fiercely in this price bracket, which is great news for us consumers.
What is the main difference between wired and wireless models in this price range?
The biggest difference is convenience versus potential audio fidelity. Wireless headphones give you the freedom to move around without a cable, but some of the cost goes into the battery and Bluetooth components. This can sometimes mean that a wired headphone at the same price point might have slightly better drivers for purer sound. However, the convenience of wireless is a huge plus for many people, and the sound quality on modern Bluetooth headphones is still very impressive for the price.
How important is battery life for wireless over-ear headphones?
It is very important if you plan on using them away from a charger often. I look for a minimum of 20 hours of playback, but many models now offer 30 hours or more. This means you can typically get through a full week of commuting or work without needing to recharge. Also, check if they have a quick-charge feature—being able to get a few hours of juice from a 10-minute charge can be a lifesaver.
Can I get effective noise cancellation for under $100?
Yes, you can! Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is no longer exclusive to high-end models. While it will not completely erase all sound like the most expensive options can, the ANC on the best over-ear headphones under $100 is more than capable of drowning out the consistent hum of an airplane engine, a busy street, or an air conditioner. It makes a significant difference for focus and immersion without blowing your budget.
What should I do if the headphones feel too tight on my head?
This is a common issue. A simple trick is to gently stretch the headband over a stack of books or a box that is slightly wider than your head for a day or two. Do not overstretch it, just a little bit can relieve a lot of pressure. The padding might also need a short break-in period to soften up and conform to the shape of your head.
Are there any good open-back headphones under $100?
Open-back options are rarer in this budget segment, as most affordable models are closed-back to provide passive noise isolation. However, they do exist, typically from brands that specialize in studio monitoring or more audiophile-focused sound. They offer a wider, more natural soundstage but leak sound out and let ambient noise in, so they are best for quiet, private listening environments.