3 best inexpensive headphones

Inexpensive headphones, often referred to as budget or affordable headphones, are audio devices designed to deliver reasonable audio quality at a lower cost compared to premium or high-end headphones. These headphones are widely available and cater to a broad range of consumers who are looking for a cost-effective audio solution. Here are some key points about inexpensive headphones:

  1. Materials and Build Quality: Budget headphones are typically constructed using more affordable materials like plastic rather than premium materials such as metal or leather. This can make them lighter but may result in a less robust build.

  2. Sound Quality: While inexpensive headphones may not offer the same level of audio fidelity as high-end models, they can still provide decent sound quality for everyday listening. Sound profiles vary among brands and models, but you can often find budget headphones with clear audio and balanced bass, mids, and highs.

  3. Design and Comfort: Inexpensive headphones come in various designs, including on-ear, over-ear, and in-ear styles. Comfort levels can vary, so it's essential to choose a design that suits your preferences and ensures a comfortable fit during extended use.

  4. Wired vs. Wireless: Budget headphones are available in both wired and wireless (Bluetooth) options. Wired models are often more affordable and provide reliable audio connections, while wireless models offer the convenience of cord-free listening but may have a slightly higher price point.

  5. Noise Isolation and Noise Cancelling: Some inexpensive headphones offer passive noise isolation by design, while others may include basic noise-cancelling features. However, the noise-cancelling capabilities of budget headphones are typically not as advanced as those found in premium models.

  6. Battery Life: If you opt for wireless budget headphones, pay attention to the battery life. While some budget wireless headphones offer impressive battery performance, others may have shorter playback times.

  7. Brand and Model Selection: There are numerous reputable brands and models in the budget headphone category. Reading user reviews and expert opinions can help you identify headphones that meet your requirements and budget.

  8. Accessories: Inexpensive headphones may come with limited accessories compared to premium models. Common accessories include a carrying pouch or case, detachable cables, and additional ear tips (for in-ear models).

  9. Usage Scenarios: Budget headphones are suitable for various usage scenarios, such as casual listening, commuting, exercising, or as backup headphones.They are also popular among students and individuals on a tight budget.

  10. Care and Maintenance: Proper care can extend the lifespan of your inexpensive headphones. Clean them regularly, store them in a safe place when not in use, and avoid subjecting them to extreme conditions.

Inexpensive headphones can provide a satisfactory audio experience for many consumers, especially those looking for affordability and practicality in their audio accessories. While they may not offer the premium features and materials found in higher-priced models, they can be a valuable and cost-effective addition to your audio setup.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best inexpensive headphones on the market
  

Koss KPH7 Lightweight Portable Headphone, Black

Koss

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Lightweight Portable Headphone

  • Adjustable headband for comfort and secure fit
  • 3.5mm plug and 4 ft. cord
  • Deep base response
  • Frequency response 80-18,000 hz, 91db SPL sensitivity
  • 32 Ohms

User questions & answers

Question: What type of male connection do these have? A straight stick or one that's angled at 90 degrees
Answer: Yes it can. This is the best battery charger I have ever purchased.
Question: are they adjustable
Answer: No. As stated in the item description, it only works with AA, AAA, C, and D batteries.
Question: are these compatible with ipad air
Answer: It can charge 4 D batteries simultaneously.
Question: How long do they last if you use them almost everyday? Should I get two pairs or stick with one
Answer: Acording to the description it can "charger 8 pieces of AA/AAA Ni-MH batteries or 4 pieces of C/D Ni-MH batteries freely." It also states it can charge Ni-cd batteries. It doesn't matter the branding of the battery, as long as they are Ni-MH, or Ni-CD RECHARGABLE batteries. This does NOT charge lithium batteries.

Product features

Adjustable Headphones

Slim, lightweight on ear headphone profile and adjustable fit for users of all ages.

Connectivity

Wired, 4-foot headphone cable connects to devices via 3.5mm plug

Use

Durable, high quality headphone design for frequent use with great sound. Ideal for use at school, work, and on-the-go.

Works with

Any PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet, Portable DVD player, radio and any other device, with a 3.5mm plug

Panasonic Headphones On-Ear Lightweight with XBS RP-HT21 (Black & Silver)

Panasonic

Based on 17 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Panasonic Headphones On-Ear Lightweight with XBS RP-HT21 offer full-bodied sound free of the discomfort that can sometimes accompany earbud-style earphones. Weighing only 1.2 ounces, these lightweight headphones feature a wide, ergonomic headband and foam-cushioned earpads that feel secure yet never intrusive, providing hours of listening comfort. Large, 30mm magnetic neodymium drivers deliver clear, natural-sounding mids and highs while the XBS (Extra Bass System) port increases low-frequency response to bring alive music and movies. The 4.5-feet cord threads comfortably through clothing and bags and reaches the computer across your desk.

  • WIRED ON-EAR HEADPHONES - Lightweight, open-air design on-ear headphones weigh just 1.2 ounces without cable
  • ON-EAR STEREO AUDIO - 30mm large neodymium drivers deliver rich powerful bass and natural treble
  • IMPROVED BASS RESPONSE - XBS port magnifies low-frequency sound for full, robust bass
  • WIDE, ERGONOMIC HEADBAND - Comfort-fit with a wide headband and foam-cushioned earcups for added listening comfort
  • EXTENDED HEADPHONE CORD - Long 4.5-ft. cord threads comfortably through clothing and bags

User questions & answers

Question: Will these work well outside brisk walk or running with an iPod
Answer: The pineapple cutter is very good, stainless steel. Follow instructions Don’t buy plastic one. I have had it for years so I don’t have packaging to see where it was made. I think it is German. Google and see if you find out more.
Question: Down the road, will 2-inch-diameter replacement foam earpads fit these Panasonic headphones
Answer: I can't begin to imagine why the difference since both of them are identical. I think I have the older model because I I got mine a little over two years ago. I can only tell you that it's worth every penny no matter what you pay for it. I use it every time I buy pineapple which is often, and it makes the job so incredibly easy, and cleans just by rinsing in warm water. As for the difference in price I noticed that Amazon does this in order to keep competitive, so maybe this is the answer.
Question: Will this headphone jack fit through the headphone jack on my iphone 5s life proof case
Answer: I don’t know where it’s made, but I wouldn’t buy another one. It makes the pineapple slices very thin and leaves them ragged, not smooth. It was a good name brand so disappointing.
Question: Do they enclose the ears or press against them? I can't tell how big they are
Answer: I've never used a Newness corer but I've had farberware products so I felt if their corer was like their other products it would be great. I wasn't disappointed I bought another one for my daughter.

Product features

Panasonic Headphones On-Ear Lightweight with XBS RP-HT21

Combining a high-quality listening experience with portability and lightweight comfort, the Panasonic Headphones On-Ear Lightweight with XBS RP-HT21 offer big, quality sound on any budget. The lightweight, open-air design weighs 1.2 ounces and features a wide headband and foam-cushioned earpads to keep you comfy, even during extended listening sessions. The 30mm magnetic neodymium drivers deliver clear, natural-sounding mids and highs while the XBS port pumps up the bass to bring alive music and movies. Perfect for grab-and-go listening, the RP-HT21 headphones feature a generous 4.5-ft. cord, making them ideal to keep next to your computer, in your laptop case or in a backpack along with your favorite portable music device.

Powerful Neodymium Drivers for High-Quality Audio

Despite their demure profile, the RP-HT21 delivers clear, natural-sounding mids and highs along with resonant bass powered by 30-millimeter diameter drivers and neodymium magnets. A 16Hz - 22kHz frequency response ensures you’ll hear every detail in your favorite tunes, movies and video games.

XBS Port for Increased Bass Response

An XBS (Extra Bass System) port magnifies low-frequency sound, delivering full, robust bass similar to what you’d hear in higher-priced headphones, brining alive your favorite dance tunes or action movies.

Wide Headband and Cushioned Earpads

A wide, ergonomic headband and foam-cushioned earpads feel secure yet never intrusive, providing hours of listening comfort.

Lightweight Open-air Design with Generous Cord Length

The RP-HT21 tips the scales at a feather-light 1.2 ounces, so you might just forget you have them on. A generous 4.5-feet cord threads comfortably through clothing and bags and reaches the computer across your desk.

Sony ZX Series Wired On-Ear Headphones, White (MDRZX110/WHI)

Sony

Based on 44 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Maximizing your personal audio experience has never been easier than with SONY ZX-Series Monitor headphones. Built with comfort and performance in mind, there's no need to compromise.

  • Connectivity Technology: Wired
  • 30mm drivers for rich, full frequency response
  • Lightweight and comfortable on-ear design
  • Swivel-design for portability
  • 47.25-inch (1.2 m) tangle-free, Y-type cord

Product features

Sony ZX Series Wired On-Ear Headphones

Maximizing your personal audio experience has never been easier than with SONY ZX-Series Monitor headphones. Built with comfort and performance in mind, there’s no need to compromise.

Enjoy rich, full frequency response

30 mm driver units deliver full, balanced sound for a complete listening experience from 12 - 22,000 Hz.

Swivel, folding design

Compact for portability yet affording listening flexibility, the swivel, folding earpads let you enjoy music in many ways.

Tangle-free cables

The durable, 1.2 m y-type cable resists snags and tangles so you can get caught up in your music, not your cord.

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