Headphones have become an essential gadget for music lovers, gamers, and those working in bustling environments. With the advancements in technology, finding quality headphones that don't break the bank has become easier.
When looking for the best cheap headphones under $50, it's crucial to balance cost with features.
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Sound quality, comfort, and durability are key factors to consider when making a purchase. Over-ear designs might provide better sound isolation, while in-ear options can be more portable and convenient for on-the-go use. Additionally, build materials and battery life (for wireless options) play a significant role in the overall user experience.
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We dove deep into the market to identify headphones that deliver impressive performance without emptying your wallet. Our team researched and tested numerous models to bring you the top options that’ll elevate your listening experience.
Best Cheap Headphones Under $50
We've gathered a list of the best cheap headphones under $50 to help you find great sound without breaking the bank. Check out our top picks for affordable audio enjoyment.
Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Headphones
A perfect blend of comfort, sound quality, and battery life, making it a must-have for both music lovers and frequent travelers.
Pros
- Exceptional battery life
- Superb sound quality
- Comfortable for extended use
Cons
- No noise cancellation
- Build quality feels mediocre
- Limited water resistance
The Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Headphones stand out with their incredibly long battery life. We tested them over a weekend trip, and they lasted without needing a recharge.
The quick charge feature is also a convenient addition, giving you extra playtime with just a short charge.
Sound quality is impressive for a headphone under $50. We noticed a significant improvement using Sony's Headphones Connect App to tweak the equalizer settings.
This customization makes the listening experience enjoyable and tailored to personal preferences.
Comfort is another highlight. The lightweight build and soft ear pads make these headphones pleasant to wear for long periods. It's easy to forget you're even wearing them during extended listening sessions.
If noise cancellation is a priority, these might not be the best option, as they lack this feature. The build quality, while sufficient, doesn't feel as robust as some might like. Additionally, the lack of water resistance could be a downside for those who want to use them during workouts or outdoor activities.
Soundcore Life Q20 Headphones
For an affordable price, these headphones deliver impressive sound quality and effective noise cancellation.
Pros
- Excellent sound quality
- Strong noise cancellation
- Long battery life
Cons
- Slightly bulky design
- Materials feel a bit cheap
- Limited on-ear controls
Our experience with the Soundcore Life Q20 headphones has been overwhelmingly positive. These headphones offer impressive sound clarity and rich bass. Pressing the play button twice amplifies the bass, making it ideal for genres like EDM.
Noise cancellation is another standout feature. We found it incredibly effective in reducing ambient sounds, making it easier to focus in noisy environments like trains or busy offices.
Even without high-end competition, these deliver well.
Battery life is a huge plus. We enjoyed up to 40 hours in wireless mode and up to 60 hours in standard mode. The quick charge feature came in handy, providing an extra four hours of playtime with just a five-minute charge.
The design is a bit bulky and the materials feel somewhat cheap. However, these minor drawbacks don't detract much from their overall value. The on-ear controls are basic but functional.
JBL Tune 510BT
A great affordable option for wireless headphone lovers with impressive sound quality.
Pros
- Wireless Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
- Comfortable and lightweight
- Quick charging with long battery life
Cons
- No active noise cancellation
- Build quality feels a bit flimsy
- Limited color options
The JBL Tune 510BT impresses right from the start with its Pure Bass sound. We noticed how clear and punchy the audio was, making it enjoyable to listen to various music genres.
Wearing these headphones for extended periods felt comfortable thanks to their lightweight design and adjustable headband.
The control buttons on the ear-cups made it simple to manage audio and calls without constantly reaching for our phones.
One of the biggest selling points for us was the battery life. With up to 40 hours of wireless use and a quick 5-minute charge providing 2 extra hours, we found them handy for traveling or long commutes.
BERIBES Bluetooth Headphones
These headphones offer great value with excellent sound quality and impressive battery life.
Pros
- Excellent sound quality with 6 EQ modes
- Long battery life up to 65 hours
- Lightweight and comfortable design
Cons
- May feel a bit tight for larger heads
- Controls can be slightly confusing at first
- Microphone quality could be better for calls
The BERIBES Bluetooth Headphones are perfect for those who love versatility in their audio experience. With 6 different EQ modes, we can easily switch from powerful bass to balanced sound based on our preference.
This feature makes it ideal to enjoy different music genres, from rock to jazz.
We were amazed by their incredible battery life, lasting up to 65 hours on a single charge. This allowed us to use them for several days without needing to recharge, making them a reliable choice for frequent travelers.
Pairing the headphones was smooth, thanks to the latest Bluetooth 5.3 technology. The range was also satisfying, letting us stay connected within 33 feet.
The ability to connect two devices simultaneously is a convenient touch, especially when we needed to switch between calls and media.
Amazon Basics Bluetooth Headphones
A solid choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking comfort and good sound quality.
Pros
- Comfortable fit with soft ear cushions
- Strong battery life up to 35 hours
- Reliable Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity
Cons
- Slightly bulky for travel
- Limited bass
- Charging disables audio temporarily
We were pleasantly surprised by the comfort these Amazon Basics Bluetooth Headphones offer. The soft ear cushions and adjustable headband ensure a snug fit for long listening sessions.
Whether we're on a call or just enjoying our favorite tunes, they deliver a decent audio experience.
Battery life is impressive, lasting up to 35 hours on a single charge. In our day-to-day use, we found ourselves only needing to recharge once every few days.
The quick 2-hour charging time is a nice touch, though we did wish the headphones still played audio during charging.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best cheap headphones under $50, we should focus on a few important features. Comfort is a top priority since we'll be wearing them for extended periods.
Sound Quality: Even budget headphones can provide good sound. Look for balanced audio with clear highs and powerful bass.
Comfort: Headphones should have cushioned ear pads and adjustable headbands. This ensures a snug fit, even during long listening sessions.
Build Quality: Durable materials help our headphones last longer. Reinforced cables and a sturdy construction are key.
Important Features to Consider
- Connectivity: Many affordable options offer both wired and wireless models. We should consider which type suits our lifestyle better.
- Battery Life: For wireless headphones, battery life is crucial. A minimum of 10 hours is ideal for daily use.
- Portability: A foldable or compact design makes it easier to carry our headphones on the go.
- Noise Isolation: Good passive noise isolation can enhance our listening experience. Although active noise cancellation is rare in this price range, it’s worth considering.
Here’s a quick comparison table to summarize these points:
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Sound Quality | Enjoy clearer and more balanced audio |
| Comfort | Ensures long-wearing without discomfort |
| Build Quality | Increases durability and lifespan |
| Connectivity | Choose between wired and wireless based on preference |
| Battery Life | Important for wireless models, minimum 10 hours |
| Portability | Easy to carry around, ideal for travel |
| Noise Isolation | Improves listening by reducing external noise |