When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn moreWe put cheap headphones and earbuds to the test to find the top budget models under $150.Tyler Hayes/Business InsiderIf you're willing to spend top dollar, it’s easy to find headphones packed with features and high-end audio quality. But what about cheaper models? Are lower-end headphones still worthwhile? I've been reviewing audio gear for over a decade, and I've tested plenty of affordable headphones and earbuds. Though you need to be more selective with entry-level options, the best budget headphones can still deliver good quality, and you might be surprised by just how well certain models perform.For those who want solid over-ear headphones on a budget, I recommend the Soundcore Space 2. They retail for $130, but it isn’t rare to find them for less, and they deliver surprisingly powerful active noise cancellation (ANC). On the wireless earbuds side, I like the Nothing Ear (3a), which also offer capable ANC, along with a cool transparent design and big sound for $99. And if you're just after simplicity, don’t forget the Apple EarPods. These wired earbuds never need charging and deliver solid performance for just $19.Below, you'll find all of my picks for the best budget headphones and earbuds. For this guide, I've included a variety of styles, from on-ear to open-ear models, that all regularly sell for $150 or less.Our top picks for the best budget headphonesBest overall: Soundcore Space 2 - See at AmazonBest wired earbuds: Apple EarPods (USB-C) - See at AmazonBest wireless earbuds: Nothing Ear (3a) - See at AmazonBest on-ear: Marshall Major V - See at AmazonBest open ear: CMF Clip Pro - See at AmazonBest for kids: Skullcandy Grom - See at AmazonBest overallThe Soundcore Space 2 are wireless noise-canceling headphones that retail for $130, but can sometimes be found for as little as $110. They combine a comfortable fit, excellent sound quality, and surprisingly robust ANC performance. And though plenty of headphones offer these attributes, few perform so well at this price. All things considered, they're the best budget headphones for most needs.The headphones' audio quality is big and immersive. They deliver plenty of bass while still offering clarity throughout the mid-range. These are easy headphones to put on and instantly vibe with any type of music. And if you ever find their hefty bass too strong, you can simply adjust it using the headphones' handy EQ settings.The Soundcore Space 2 deliver impressive audio quality and ANC performance for the money.Ryan Waniata/Business InsiderNoise cancellation is also a standout. Pricier flagship over-ear headphones from Bose and Sony do have a clear edge, but the Space 2 do an excellent job of minimizing HVAC noise, fan noise, and airplane drone. Few models in this price range can match the ANC on offer here.The Space 2 support around 50 hours of battery life with ANC turned on, and an incredible 70 hours with it off. That's notably more than many rivals. They also have a unique Nap Mode with several built-in nature sounds. Though this can be a bit gimmicky, some may find the white-noise selection calming. They can also connect to multiple devices at once with Multi-point pairing and feature onboard buttons rather than touch controls.However, the controls aren't quite as responsive as I'd like, and I do wish the Space 2 folded more compactly for storage. But those are ultimately small complaints, especially considering everything the Space 2 headphones get right at such an affordable price.Read our Soundcore Space 2 review.Best wired earbudsWhen I went looking for wired USB-C earbuds on a budget, I discovered there just aren't many unique, viable options on the market. That is, with the exception of Apple's EarPods. They deliver solid performance for just $19, easily cementing them as the best cheap earbuds for iPhone and Android users alike.Apple first introduced the EarPods way back in 2012, four years before the first-gen wireless AirPods. This latest edition uses a USB-C connection rather than the 3.5mm or Lightning connection used on older models. USB-C has become the standard audio connection for phones across brands, so these will plug into most modern devices without any issue.Apple's EarPods are cheap, simple, and reliable wired earbuds.Tyler Hayes/Business InsiderBeyond their low price, what makes the EarPods so appealing is their simplicity. There isn't a battery inside, so you never have to worry about running out of juice. They're powered by whatever device you connect them to. And unlike many other sub-$20 earbuds, these have a clear sound with crisp instrumentation and vocals. You won't hear distortion or too much treble in music.Surprisingly, these EarPods also have a good microphone, or at least sound great for voice calls. There's no delay like Bluetooth buds, and the microphone can be adjusted closer to your mouth if needed. Even if you don't need the
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