Choosing the best budget headphones can be a daunting task. We’re not talking about models with active noise cancellation or advanced wireless headphones that offer a wide range of features. Those options are more expensive. For those on a budget (under $35 in this case) and just looking for something for everyday use to enjoy quality sound, finding the right pair takes effort.
We tested a variety of models and rated them based on sound quality, design, comfort, and intended use. We also tested a few budget sports headphones for their durability in everyday conditions. Here are our favorite finds.
What are the best budget headphones right now?
Based on our tests, we single out the Realme Buds 6 as the best budget earbuds available in 2025. Their combination of powerful sound and practicality thanks to the free cable with in-line management make them a smart choice. The variety of colors and affordable price are also pluses for bulk purchases.
In second place we have the KZ Carol , which has earned recognition in this category over the past few years. You will appreciate the deep bass, which is perfect for modern music. The headphones also convey mids and highs well on orchestral recordings. In terms of design, it is a beautiful combination of aluminum housings and a braided cable that prevents it from getting damaged.
The Best Cheap Headphones You Can Buy Today
1. Realme Buds 6
Best Budget Noise Cancelling Headphones
Size: 5.8 x 4.4 x 2.5 cm | Weight: 42.5 g (with case) | Control module: Yes | Microphone: Yes | Waterproof: IPX5
✔️ Great sound
✔️Effective active noise cancellation
✔️ Long battery life
✔️Comfortable fit
❌ Some users may notice slight delays when watching videos
Budget earbuds with great bass are a rare find, and the Realme Buds 6 deliver what we consider to be the best budget noise-canceling earbuds: the Buds 6. These tiny earbuds are powered by Realme’s proprietary audio chip, which enhances your music by delivering deep, rich sound with excellent detail. Active noise cancellation makes them ideal for use in noisy environments, immersing you in your music or podcasts without distractions.
The plastic design of the Realme Buds 6 may feel flimsy and the case tends to scratch when used, but these are minor niggles in the grand scheme of things. The sound, style, and ease of use of the Buds 6 make them worth considering to win you over. Trust us, you’ll want to add them to your cart ASAP.
2. KZ Carol True Wireless
Size: Standard for TWS | Weight: Light | Control module: Touch | Microphone: 6 microphones | Waterproof: IPX5
✔️ Good value for money
✔️ Effective active noise cancellation (ANC)
✔️ Three listening modes: Standard, Transparent, Noise-canceling mode
✔️ Comfortable and lightweight
❌ The bass is not very lively
❌ Poor case build quality
❌ No app for control and settings
❌ No charging cable included
The KZ Carol offers professional Hi-Fi sound using an ultra-linear wide-band internal magnetic driver and hybrid active noise cancellation technology. These headphones deliver excellent audio performance with powerful bass, accurate mids, and clear highs. However, some users have noted that the bass may not be as lively as they would like, and that the build quality of the case leaves much to be desired.
The headphones support several listening modes, including a transparency mode that allows you to hear surrounding sounds, and a noise-canceling mode for a fully immersive music experience. Unfortunately, the lack of an app for control and customization may be a drawback for those who like to personalize their audio experience. Also, the lack of a charging cable in the package may be inconvenient.
Overall, the KZ Carol is an interesting option for those looking for quality ANC headphones at an affordable price, despite some shortcomings in design and functionality.
3. Anker SoundCore P30i
Affordable wireless headphones with advanced noise cancellation
Size: Compact | Weight: Light | Control module: Touch | Microphone: Yes | Waterproof: IP54
✔️ Excellent value for money
✔️ Advanced Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) up to 42dB
✔️ 3 listening modes: standard, transparent, ANC
✔️ Comfortable and secure fit
❌ Bass can be overwhelming
❌ The build quality of the case could be better
❌ No app for control and settings
❌ Charging cable is not included.
The Anker SoundCore P30i offers professional Hi-Fi audio with ultra-linear, wide-band internal magnetic drivers and hybrid active noise cancellation technology. These headphones deliver a superior sound experience with powerful bass, accurate mids, and crisp highs. However, some users note that the bass may be too dominant for some tastes, and the build quality of the case may not be up to par.
The headphones support several listening modes, including a transparency mode that lets you hear your surroundings and an ANC mode for a fully immersive listening experience. Unfortunately, the lack of an app for control and customization may be a drawback for those who like to personalize their audio experience. Also, the lack of a charging cable in the box may be inconvenient.
Overall, the Anker SoundCore P30i is an interesting option for those looking for quality active noise-cancelling headphones at an affordable price, despite some minor design and functionality flaws.
4. SoundPEATS Air3 Deluxe HS
Hi-Res Certified Half-Ear Headphones with LDAC Codec
Size: Half-ear | Weight: 4g per earphone | Control module: touch | Microphone: 4 ENC microphones | Waterproof: IPX4
✔️ Affordable Hi-Res sound quality
✔️ LDAC codec support for improved audio transmission
✔️ Comfortable fit for long-term wear
✔️ In-ear detection for auto play/pause
❌ Low Latency Gaming Mode (60ms)
❌ Poor sound insulation due to the “half-insert” design
❌ Average battery life
❌ Loose fit during intense exercise
❌ Without active noise cancellation (ANC)
SoundPEATS Air3 Deluxe HS is a wireless Bluetooth headphone that delivers immersive audio. It features a 14.2mm dynamic driver with bio-diaphragm, which, combined with Hi-Res certification, delivers detailed and high-quality audio. LDAC codec support provides high bitrates up to 990 kbps, which is close to lossless audio quality. However, it does not support active noise cancellation, which may be a drawback for users in noisy environments. The headphones feature touch controls for easy operation, including play/pause, volume control, and game mode activation, which reduces latency for a better gaming experience.
Battery life is up to 5 hours per charge and 20 hours with the charging case, which is standard for the price range but may not be enough for all-day listeners. The in-ear design provides comfort for long sessions but results in poor noise isolation, making them less suitable for workouts or noisy commutes. Users praise the comfort and sound quality, especially considering the sub-$50 price tag, making them a strong alternative to pricier options like the Apple AirPods for casual listening and calls. However, intense exercise may require a more secure fit.
How to Choose the Best Budget Wireless Headphones for You in 2025?
When shopping for the best budget headphones, you’re looking for models that offer maximum performance and comfort at a minimum cost. This can be a difficult task for headphones under $35, but it’s certainly achievable.
Of course, you want budget wireless headphones that sound great. Some brands have a reputation for quality sound, so look for options from well-known manufacturers. You can also find hidden gems from lesser-known brands, but it’s important to be careful and research their reliability through user reviews and expert reviews. Either way, choose headphones that suit your audio preferences.
Another important aspect is functionality. While budget wireless earbuds may not have as many features as premium wireless models, they can still be useful. You’ll want a model with an in-line remote for playback, call management, and volume control; these controls can also support modern voice assistants like Google Assistant or Siri. Having a microphone is important for taking calls on the go.
Accessories such as extra ear tips are a big plus. They affect the comfort and fit, which is especially important for long listening sessions both outdoors and at home.
Finally, you need to decide what device you will be using these top budget headphones with. If you are still using devices with a headphone jack, such as old MP3 players or smartphones without Bluetooth, then you are good to go. However, for owners of modern Apple or Android smartphones, you will need a headphone adapter, which either comes with the device or is purchased separately to be compatible with your gadget.