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Best Headphones under $200
We tested headphones under $200 across ANC, design, battery, and comfort.
Adam is the Managing 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
- 89 total votes89 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
- 77 total votes77 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
- 32 total votes32 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
- 4 total votes4 total votes
$199
8.1
7.6
8.3
7.0
8.0
7.0
7.0
9.5
9.9
8.5
8.0
- 91 total votes91 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
- 5 total votes5 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
- 2 total votes2 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
- 10 total votes10 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
- 5 total votes5 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
- 5 total votes5 total votes
$180
7.5
4.9
7.3
6.0
7.0
6.2
7.0
9.0
9.8
8.5
7.9
- 1 total votes1 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
- 4 total votes4 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
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
Sony ULT WEAR are our best overall pick because they combine effective ANC, long battery life, and broad connectivity in a compact, foldable over-ear package. Our MDAQS assessment shows the ULT WEAR are bass-forward, so we recommend using the app EQ to tame the ULT button’s heavy bass boost. In lab testing they lasted 32 hours and 35 minutes and deliver more than 25dB of attenuation above 80Hz, making them well suited for commutes and travel. They support Bluetooth 5.2 with LDAC and multipoint, and offer a wired 3.5mm option though no USB-C audio; the Sony Sound Connect app also unlocks ANC and EQ customization. The ULT WEAR also earned Best ANC, Best Battery Life, Best Call Quality, Best Over-Ear Headphones, Best for iPhone users and Best for Comfort recognition.Sourced from Sony ULT WEAR review – SoundGuys.
Best Value pick: JLab JBuds Lux ANC
JLab JBuds Lux ANC is our Best Value pick thanks to its very long 44-hour battery, compact foldable design, and a useful companion app with a 10-band EQ. The headphones deliver respectable ANC for the price — reducing much commuting noise though not matching higher-end models, with measured 10–20dB cancellation under 700Hz — and the ear cups provide strong high-frequency isolation. Fast charging provides around four hours of playback from a ten-minute charge, and Bluetooth 5.3 plus USB-C wired playback offer modern connectivity. We strongly encourage trying the EQ presets if you find the sound objectionable, since the app makes adjustments easy. For budget-conscious commuters and travelers, the JBuds Lux ANC packs more features than you’d expect from a sub-$100 set.Sourced from JLab JBuds Lux ANC review – SoundGuys.
Best for Android users pick: Anker Soundcore Space One
Anker Soundcore Space One is our Best for Android users pick because it supports LDAC for higher-bitrate streaming, uses Bluetooth 5.3, and pairs that connectivity with a robust Soundcore app that includes HearID and an eight-band EQ. In our testing the Space One lasted 42 hours and 57 minutes with ANC on, and the app offers adjustable ANC strength, wind-noise reduction, and a decibel meter for safe listening. The headphones fold, feel lightweight, and include USB-C charging plus an auxiliary cable for wired listening when needed. While the Space One doesn’t provide audio over USB-C, the mix of LDAC, multipoint, and app-driven tuning makes it especially appealing to Android-first listeners who prioritize codec support. That combination is why we singled out the Space One for Android-oriented buyers shopping under $200.Sourced from Anker Soundcore Space One review – SoundGuys.
Best Sound Quality pick: JBL Live 670NC
JBL Live 670NC is our Best Sound Quality pick for its energetic JBL tuning, extensive app EQ, and strong measured ANC that approaches 30dB around 250Hz. The on-ear form factor makes them highly portable, and in lab testing they exceeded their advertised endurance, lasting 54 hours and 57 minutes. They connect via Bluetooth 5.3, support multipoint, and include a 3.5mm cable for airplane systems, though codec support is limited to SBC and AAC. On our MDAQS scale the Live 670NC scored 4.8, reflecting a pleasing frequency balance and customizable sound that many listeners will enjoy. If sound quality and long battery life in a compact on-ear package matter most, the Live 670NC fit that niche.Sourced from JBL Live 670NC review – SoundGuys.
Our verdict
Across wireless and wired headphones under $200 released in the past 1–10 years, our picks prioritize battery life, effective ANC, and useful codec and app support. The Sony ULT WEAR leads as our all-around choice by mixing measured ANC performance, long battery life, LDAC support, multipoint, and app-driven customization. The JLab JBuds Lux ANC gives the best value with very long endurance and an app-based EQ, the Anker Soundcore Space One targets Android owners with LDAC and HearID plus solid ANC and battery life, and the JBL Live 670NC emphasizes sound quality and a portable on-ear design backed by a 4.8 MDAQS result and lengthy battery. For commuters who want compact, feature-rich wireless ANC, Sony and JBL are strong options; budget-minded buyers will find the JLab fills the same needs for far less, while Android-first listeners should look at the Space One.
The remaining headphones we tested also have clear use cases: EarFun Wave Pro delivers among the longest battery tests at 52 hours, LDAC support, multipoint, and reasonable ANC for travel; Sennheiser ACCENTUM Wireless leans toward sound-focused listeners with USB-C audio support, aptX and aptX HD codecs, and a 46-hour test runtime despite a more pared-down accessory set; and Sony WH-XB910N sticks to Sony’s Extra Bass tuning, offers a wired 3.5mm option and a comfortable fit, though its touch controls can be inconsistent. Within the filters you set — wireless or wired headphones under $200 and released in the last decade — these summaries should help you match codec support, ANC strength, and battery life to how you listen.
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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