Looking for the best headphone under 150$? Whether you’re an audiophile, a gamer, or just someone who enjoys high-quality sound on a budget, finding the perfect pair of headphones can be challenging. In this guide, we’ll explore the top-rated headphones that offer premium features without breaking the bank. From over-ear noise-canceling options to wireless in-ear designs, these budget-friendly headphones deliver exceptional sound quality, comfort, and durability. Whether you need headphones for music, gaming, or podcasts, our curated list highlights the best affordable models from trusted brands like Sony, Sennheiser, and Audio-Technica. With features like Bluetooth connectivity, long battery life, and crystal-clear audio, these headphones under $150 offer incredible value. Explore our recommendations and find the perfect balance between price and performance today!
QUICK OVERVIEW FOR SELECTION
SHOKZ OpenRun (AfterShokz Aeropex)
Bone-conduction headphones ideal for outdoor activities like running and cycling. They feature an open-ear design for safety and awareness, IP67 water resistance, and an 8-hour battery life, making them a practical choice for athletes.
JBL Live 660NC – Wireless Over-Ear Noise Cancelling
Over-ear wireless headphones with excellent Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and immersive sound quality. Offering 40 hours of battery life, these headphones are lightweight and comfortable, making them great for long listening sessions and commuting.
Skullcandy Crusher Evo – Over-Ear Wireless Headphones
Known for adjustable haptic bass technology, these headphones provide a personalized bass experience. With a long battery life of up to 40 hours, they deliver deep, powerful sound and are an excellent fit for bass lovers and casual listeners.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50X – Professional Studio Monitor Headphones
Wired over-ear headphones celebrated for their superior sound clarity, especially deep bass and crisp highs. Durable and high-fidelity, they are popular among professionals and audiophiles looking for detailed audio reproduction.
Sennheiser HD 599 – Open Back Headphones
These open-back headphones deliver a spacious soundstage and natural audio, ideal for home listening. Comfortable with plush ear pads, they offer excellent midrange and high-frequency response for extended use.
JBL LIVE 770NC – Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
With Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and up to 50 hours of battery life, these headphones feature JBL’s signature sound and multipoint connection, making them suitable for immersive, long listening sessions.
Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro – True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds
True wireless earbuds offering 24-bit Hi-Fi sound, ANC, and up to 30 hours of total battery life with the charging case. Lightweight and ergonomic, they’re ideal for daily use and integrate seamlessly with Samsung devices for a premium experience.
Detail Description for Analysis
1.SHOKZ OpenRun (AfterShokz Aeropex) Headphones under 150$
The AfterShokz Aeropex Quick Charge model from Shokz is designed with an open-ear comfort design using bone conduction technology to enhance audio experience while keeping ears open to ambient sounds. Ideal for fitness enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers, this model is crafted to provide secure fit, exceptional sound quality, and prolonged battery life.
Features:
Open-Ear Comfort:
- Design: Lightweight, wraparound frame featuring an open-ear design for earbud-free comfort.
- Fit: Wireless and secure, it includes a Shokz headband that ensures placement stability even during intense activities.
- Benefit: Provides an earbud-free experience, allowing for long-term comfort and reducing ear fatigue.
Safety & Connection:
- Technology: Built with 8th-generation bone conduction technology to deliver high-quality audio.
- Safety: Allows you to stay aware of your surroundings by keeping your eardrums open, ideal for workouts and outdoor environments.
- Benefit: Motivates users while maintaining spatial awareness, making it safer for road running and cycling.
IP67 Waterproof Rating:
- Durability: Completely sweatproof and waterproof, making it perfect for intense workouts and weather conditions.
- Safety Feature: Equipped with a moisture detection alert to protect against unsafe charging conditions.
- Limitations: Not suitable for swimming due to water submersion limitations.
Extended Battery Life:
- Playback Time: Provides up to 8 hours of continuous playtime, covering music, calls, and podcasts.
- Quick Charge: 10-minute quick charge offers up to 1.5 hours of battery life, perfect for last-minute boosts.
- Model Specific: Quick Charge version tailored for users who value extended usage without frequent charging.
Enhanced Sound Quality:
- Bone Conduction: Transmits sound through cheekbones using vibration-based bone conduction technology.
- Experience: Delivers rich audio quality, ensuring you stay connected to both music and surroundings.
- Benefit: Ideal for users who value high audio quality while needing environmental awareness.
Reasons to Buy:
- Open-ear design for enhanced comfort and safety
- High-quality bone conduction audio
- Long battery life with quick charge capabilities
- IP67 waterproof rating, ideal for outdoor and fitness activities
- Lightweight and stable fit with the added headband for secure placement
Reasons to Avoid:
- Not suitable for swimming or submersion
- Bone conduction sound quality may differ from traditional headphones
- Some users may prefer fully immersive audio rather than open-ear.
2.JBL Live 660NC - Wireless Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones
The JBL Live 660NC headphones are over-ear wireless headphones designed for immersive sound and effective Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). With up to 40 hours of battery life (50 hours without ANC), these headphones are ideal for long listening sessions and commuting. They deliver JBL’s signature sound, balanced audio, and feature a lightweight and comfortable design for extended wear
Reasons to Buy:
- Effective ANC for a quiet listening experience
- JBL Signature Sound for rich, well-balanced audio
- Long Battery Life of up to 50 hours (without ANC) and quick charge capability
- Comfortable, Lightweight Design ideal for long listening sessions
- Multipoint Connectivity to pair with multiple devices
- Voice Assistant Integration for hands-free control
- Customizable Sound Profile through the JBL Headphones app
Reasons to Avoid:
- ANC Performance may not match higher-end models from competitors
- Bulky Over-Ear Design may not be ideal for very active use or compact storage
- Limited Call Quality in Noisy Environments, where microphone clarity could be affected
- No Waterproof Rating, making them unsuitable for intense workouts or exposure to moisture.
3.Skullcandy Crusher Evo Over-Ear Wireless Headphone
The Skullcandy Crusher Evo headphones offer a unique, personalized listening experience with adjustable haptic bass, allowing users to control the level of bass for an immersive audio experience. Designed for bass lovers, these wireless over-ear headphones deliver up to 40 hours of battery life, durable build quality, and a comfortable fit, making them a top choice for both casual listeners and bass enthusiasts.
1.Adjustable Haptic Bass:
- Customizable Bass Slider: A standout feature, the adjustable haptic bass slider lets users adjust the bass intensity, from subtle vibrations to deep, powerful bass, enhancing music, movies, and gaming experiences.
- Skullcandy Sensory Bass: Delivers a unique sensation that you can feel, bringing a more immersive and personalized experience to bass-heavy audio.
Battery Life and Fast Charging:
- Battery Life: With up to 40 hours of playback on a single charge, the Crusher Evo is built to last for extended listening sessions, ideal for travel and long commutes.
- Rapid Charge: A quick 10-minute charge provides up to 4 hours of playback, making it convenient for users on the go.
Sound Quality:
- Personalized Sound Profile: Using the Skullcandy app, users can create a custom sound profile based on their unique hearing, enhancing audio clarity and balance.
- Dynamic Audio: Along with heavy bass, the headphones offer clear highs and mids, creating an enjoyable sound profile for most genres, especially bass-heavy tracks.
Comfort and Build Quality:
- Comfortable Design: Soft memory foam ear cushions and an adjustable headband provide a comfortable fit, even during extended listening sessions.
- Sturdy and Foldable Design: Made for durability, the headphones are built to handle daily wear and tear. They also fold into a compact form, making them easy to travel with.
Connectivity and Controls:
- Bluetooth 5.0: Ensures a stable wireless connection and easy pairing with compatible devices.
- Integrated Controls: On-ear buttons allow users to adjust volume, change tracks, and manage calls directly from the headphones.
- Tile Tracking Integration: Built-in Tile technology allows users to locate misplaced headphones through the Tile app, reducing the risk of loss.
Reasons to Buy:
- Adjustable Haptic Bass for a customizable bass experience
- Long Battery Life of up to 40 hours with quick charge capabilities
- Personalized Sound Profile through the Skullcandy app for tailored audio
- Comfortable and Durable Design suitable for extended listening
- Tile Integration helps track and locate headphones
- Strong Bluetooth Connection for reliable, wireless performance
Reasons to Avoid:
- Heavy Bass may be overwhelming for users who prefer a balanced sound profile
- Lack of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) limits noise isolation in noisy environments
- Bulky Over-Ear Design may not be ideal for highly active use or compact storage
- Limited High-Frequency Clarity; some users might find highs less crisp than in other models.
4.Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Professional Studio Monitor Headphones
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50X headphones are wired, over-ear professional-grade headphones renowned for their accurate sound reproduction and exceptional build quality. Popular among audio professionals and audiophiles, these headphones offer deep bass, crisp highs, and a detailed midrange, making them suitable for studio monitoring, critical listening, and everyday use. The ATH-M50X is praised for its durability, comfort, and reliable audio quality.
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent Sound Quality with balanced audio and deep bass, ideal for critical listening and studio use
- Durable Build designed to withstand professional use and travel
- Comfortable Fit with soft ear pads and padded headband for extended wear
- Detachable Cables for versatility and easy replacement
- Great Passive Noise Isolation due to the closed-back design, reducing external noise effectively
- Reliable and Trusted by Professionals, making them popular among audio engineers and audiophiles
Reasons to Avoid:
- Wired Only; lacks Bluetooth connectivity, which may limit portability and convenience for some users
- No Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), relying only on passive isolation for noise reduction
- Bulky Design may not be ideal for casual or on-the-go use
- Bass Emphasis may not appeal to those who prefer a completely flat response for audio accuracy
- Non-Breathable Ear Pads may lead to slight discomfort during long listening sessions in warmer environments
5.Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 599 Open Back Headphone
The Sennheiser HD 599 is an open-back, over-ear headphone designed for home listening, offering a spacious soundstage and natural audio reproduction. Renowned for its wide sound profile, this model provides comfort for extended listening sessions with soft, plush ear pads and an ergonomic design. The HD 599 delivers rich mids, clear highs, and a balanced bass response, making it ideal for audiophiles and music enthusiasts who appreciate detailed, high-quality audio.
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent Sound Quality with balanced audio, especially suited for critical listening and studio use
- Durable Build designed to withstand professional use and frequent travel
- Comfortable Fit with soft ear pads and adjustable headband for extended wear
- Great Passive Noise Isolation with a closed-back design, reducing external noise effectively
- Detachable Cables for versatility and easy replacement
- Trusted by Professionals, making them popular among sound engineers and audiophiles
Reasons to Avoid:
- Wired Only; lacks Bluetooth connectivity, which may limit portability and convenience for some users
- No Active Noise Cancellation (ANC); relies on passive isolation for noise reduction
- Bulky Design may not be ideal for casual or on-the-go use
- Bass Emphasis may not appeal to those who prefer a completely flat response for audio accuracy
- Non-Breathable Ear Pads may cause slight discomfort during extended listening in warm environments.
6.JBL LIVE 770NC - Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
The JBL LIVE 770NC headphones are wireless over-ear headphones featuring Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and JBL’s renowned sound quality, delivering rich audio with deep bass and clear highs. With up to 50 hours of battery life and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, these headphones are designed for all-day listening and travel. Additionally, they feature voice assistant integration and a multipoint connection, making them convenient for multi-device use.
Reasons to Buy:
- Long Battery Life of up to 50 hours (without ANC) and quick charge capability
- Effective ANC with Ambient Aware and TalkThru modes for versatility in different environments
- JBL Signature Sound for dynamic and powerful audio across genres
- Comfortable Design with plush ear pads for long listening sessions
- Voice Assistant Integration for hands-free control
- Multipoint Connectivity for pairing with multiple devices at once
- Customizable EQ through the JBL app, allowing personalized sound settings
Reasons to Avoid:
- ANC Quality may not match premium competitors’ noise-canceling capabilities in very loud environments
- Bulky Over-Ear Design may not be ideal for very active use or compact storage
- No Waterproof or Sweat Resistance, limiting use for workouts or exposure to moisture
- Sound Profile may be bass-heavy, which may not appeal to users looking for a flat, balanced respons.
7.SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds2 Pro True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds
The Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro are high-end true wireless earbuds that provide an immersive audio experience with 24-bit Hi-Fi sound, effective Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), and Samsung’s signature 360 Audio with head tracking. These earbuds are lightweight, ergonomic, and offer up to 30 hours of battery life with the charging case, making them suitable for daily use, whether for music, calls, or workouts. With IPX7 water resistance and seamless Samsung ecosystem integration, they cater particularly well to Samsung device users.
Reasons to Buy:
- High-Quality 24-Bit Audio for a rich, immersive listening experience
- Effective ANC to minimize external noise for focused listening
- 360 Audio with Head Tracking for a surround-sound effect, enhancing movies, music, and gaming
- Comfortable and Ergonomic Fit with multiple ear tip sizes for secure, all-day comfort
- IPX7 Water Resistance for sweat and water protection, ideal for workouts
- Seamless Integration with Samsung Ecosystem offering features like Auto Switch for effortless device connectivity
- Wireless Charging and Fast Charge Support for added convenience on the go
Reasons to Avoid:
- Premium Price Point may be higher than comparable earbuds
- Limited Features Outside Samsung Devices: Some features like Auto Switch are exclusive to Samsung devices, reducing functionality on non-Samsung devices
- No True Multi-Device Connectivity (outside Samsung Auto Switch), limiting seamless switching between different non-Samsung devices
- Not Suitable for Swimming due to IPX7 rating, which doesn’t support full submersion
- Sound Customization Limited to the Galaxy Wearable app, which may be less accessible for non-Samsung users
