10 Best Affordable Headphones 2025 in the United States

The Beats Studio Pro headphones offer rich and immersive sound thanks to Beats' custom acoustic platform and support for lossless audio via USB-C. They include three sound profiles and personalized spatial audio that enhances the listening experience, which is a strong point for music lovers. Comfort-wise, these are over-ear headphones with faux leather padding, likely providing a decent fit for extended use, though the weight (around 9 ounces) may feel a bit heavy for some. Battery life is impressive, delivering up to 40 hours of playback on a single charge, with a quick 10-minute charge adding 4 more hours—great for long days without frequent recharging.

Noise control is solid, featuring active noise cancellation and a transparency mode that lets in outside sound when needed, making them versatile for different environments. The microphones use voice-targeting technology that filters background noise, so call clarity is good. Connectivity is strong with Bluetooth 5.3, offering a reliable range and easy pairing with both Apple and Android devices, plus wired options via a 3.5mm audio cable.

Durability is decent with a woven carrying case included, though the headphones aren’t water-resistant, which might be a drawback if you plan to use them during workouts or in wet conditions. Controls are user-friendly, with buttons and touch options, plus voice assistant support. These headphones represent a solid choice for anyone seeking premium sound, long battery life, and effective noise cancellation in an affordable package, but might be less ideal if you need something lightweight or water-resistant.

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones stand out as a strong choice for those seeking comfortable, quality noise-cancelling headphones without breaking the bank. They deliver impressive sound quality with high-fidelity audio and customizable EQ settings, allowing you to adjust bass, mids, and treble to suit your taste. The active noise cancellation is effective, complemented by passive noise isolation thanks to the well-padded over-ear cushions that also offer great comfort for long listening sessions.

Battery life is solid, providing up to 24 hours on a single charge, plus a quick 15-minute charge can add a couple of hours of playback, which is convenient for busy days. Connectivity is flexible with Bluetooth 5.1 and multipoint pairing, making it easy to switch between devices without hassle. The headphones also come with a wired option and a built-in microphone suitable for calls, though the mic is decent but not exceptional for noisy environments.

Some users might find the plastic build less rugged compared to more heavy-duty models, and they lack water resistance, so care is needed around moisture. Touch controls are modern and responsive but may take some getting used to. For anyone looking for reliable noise cancellation, comfort, and sound quality in an affordable package, these Bose headphones are a worthy contender, especially if you want easy device switching and long battery life.

The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds stand out as a solid choice for active users and fitness enthusiasts looking for affordable, wireless headphones that offer excellent comfort and a reliable fit. Their secure earhooks, reinforced with a flexible nickel titanium alloy and multiple ear tip sizes, ensure they stay in place during workouts without causing discomfort. Sound quality is impressive for the price, featuring Adaptive EQ and personalized Spatial Audio that deliver clear highs, rich mids, and solid bass, making music immersive and enjoyable.

Battery life is a strong point here, with up to 45 hours using the charging case and 10 hours per single charge, plus a quick 5-minute charge for an extra 1.5 hours of playback, which is great for long days on the move. Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) works well to block distractions, and Transparency mode lets you stay aware of your surroundings when needed. The earbuds also include a heart rate monitor, a neat addition for fitness tracking that integrates nicely with both Apple and Android devices. Connectivity is reliable, thanks to Class 1 Bluetooth 5.3, supporting smooth wireless pairing and stable connections. Calls come through clearly with updated microphones, and you can control music or access voice assistants easily via physical buttons or voice commands.

On the downside, while these earbuds offer water resistance (IPX4), they aren't fully waterproof, which may concern heavy outdoor users in harsh conditions. The charging case is smaller and supports wireless charging, but it doesn’t include a USB-C cable, which some users might find inconvenient. Also, the premium features and build quality come at a higher price point compared to other affordable headphones, so those on a tight budget might want to explore simpler alternatives. Powerbeats Pro 2 deliver excellent sound, comfort, and battery life with useful workout-focused features, making them well-suited for active lifestyles but possibly more than what casual listeners need.