12 cheap(ish) headphones we love
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The Recommendation

May 17, 2025

The best (actually good) cheap headphones, according to our audio expert

A gif of photos including various headphones under $100. The headphones include the Sony MDR-7506, light blue Soundcore Space Ones, the JLab Go Air Sport earbuds, Linsoul Tin HiFi T3 Plus wired earbuds, and a pair of EarFun Free 2S earbuds.
NYT Wirecutter

In our decade-plus of testing, our experts have found that you don’t have to spend big to get excellent headphones with nice features. We’ve tested hundreds of under-$100 options, including wireless, wired, over-ear, and earbud designs. Our cheap(ish) standouts include some earbuds good for clear phone calls, an over-ear pair with excellent battery life, and an option for runners who want to block out noise.

The best headphones under $100→

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