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Headphones have been an accessory people have turned to over the years to elevate their sound experience. Earbuds might be the more practical choice for people always on the go or who plan to listen to music while working out, but many still don’t mind wearing a bulky set of headphones in public. The technology in headphones has evolved over the years, and you can expect impeccable audio quality these days. A good set of headphones should, not only offer terrific sound, but also be durable, comfortable, and capable of isolating any unwanted noises around you. Many of you might assume that you have to spend more than $1,000 to get a good pair of headphones, but the truth is that there are great options on the market under $200. You won’t get the same high-tech features as the more expensive ones, but you can still expect superb sound quality and sleek, comfortable designs. Here are some of the best choices you can find on the market, and we’ll let you know what their best and worst features are.
For $39.95, the Sennheiser HD 250BT wireless headphones are a bang for the buck. Surprisingly, these headphones are wireless since most wireless headphones by the brand are on the pricier side. The 250BT has a sleek design, and it’s equipped with advanced wireless technology. Aside from the high-quality sound you get, you’ll quickly notice the dynamic bass that makes you feel like you have a pair fit for a DJ. The headphones have Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, and you get outstanding sound quality with AAC. It also supports AptX Codec and AptX Low Latency. These headphones are comfortable thanks to the soft and breathable padding of the ear pads and headband. You can make the most out of the 250BT by downloading the Smart Control App. It will allow you to optimize the EQ settings, update the firmware, and get notifications about the headphones’ battery life. You can leave your house without worrying about your 250BT running out of juice because it lasts for 25 hours per charge. The headphones also have a built-in mic, making them perfect for taking calls.
AffordableSleek design & solid build25-hour battery lifeWorks well with the Smart Control App
No noise cancellation feature
We know comfort is a priority for headphones because it’s a pretty large accessory to place on your head, and you want to have a smooth experience even after several hours of listening to music. The V-MODA XS on-ear headphones are a great choice for comfortable yet affordable headphones. It boasts M-Class 40 mm dual-diaphragm drivers, and you can expect energetic highs, vivid mids, and a vibrant bass from its excellent inner and outer rings. These headphones cut out any unwanted noise through their passive noise isolation capabilities. Its Steelflex headband is indestructible, and it lives up to the strictest V-MODA durability standards. The headphones are resistant to low or high temperatures and UV exposure. The V-MODA XS is a wired set of headphones, and its wire is fully detachable. The wire has a mic that recognizes your voice and tunes out any noise when you’re on a call. One of the best parts of these headphones is that they’re foldable, so they’re easier to pack inside your bags or luggage.
Impressive durabilityFoldable designA+ in comfort
Some have said it would heat up quickly
Another great set of wired earphones from Sennheiser is the HD 560 S. It’s suitable for those who are in the market for a more neutral and spacious option. These headphones have a neutral frequency response and deliver natural sound. The sound waves get to expand with ease through the open-back earcups. One downside you can expect is that these headphones could get sibilant from time to time, but their soundstage and detail retrieval makes up for it. The low-end reach of these headphones is impressive, so you can expect a clear bass. You get a front-row listening experience thanks to the E.A.R. angled transducers, and the ultra-light adjustable headband makes your entire listening experience even more comfortable. The wire of these headphones has a 6.3 mm plug and is fully detachable, making it easy to replace if ever it breaks. Users might like the design of the HD 560 S when you first look at them, but you need to know that they’re made from mostly plastic. Headphones made from plastic can come off as cheap-looking at times. You don’t have to worry about its drivers not being protected enough because it has a metallic mesh. It comes with velour earpads, which makes it feel breathable, but it also makes it prone to sound leakage,
Fantastic neutral soundImpressive soundstageComfortable
Causes sibilance at timesVelour earpads could leak sound
The AKG K72 is yet another valuable option for those who don’t plan to spend big bucks on a pair of headphones. It’s among the best headphones in its price range because of its impressive build quality and comfortability. These wired headphones have a closed-back design, which helps keep unnecessary noise out when listening. It boasts a precisely balanced response, and it’s equipped with 40 mm drivers. It features a lightweight design, so you won’t feel any strain even if you wear it for several years. The cable of these headphones is also durable. The K72’s design has a more old-school vibe, but the long cable it has doesn’t make convenient to bring with you for a jog in public. The sound quality of these headphones is smooth, and it has a controlled bass. It only falls short with its midrange because it can come off as boxy. The K72 is undeniably a steal for its price because you also get a headphone holder along with the headphones themselves. AKG also offers a warranty coverage lasting for two years.
Budget-friendlyComfortableDurable wire
Outdated designLacks modern featuresBoxy midrange
As soon as you see the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO Headphones, you can already tell that it’s a comfortable set of headphones. What stands out is its velour-wrapped ear pads with memory foam. Its design is pretty bulky and not travel-friendly, so these aren’t for people looking for headphones to use when they head out daily. The DT 990 is more compatible with people who plan to get a pair of headphones for their home workspace or studio. These open-back headphones promise three-dimensional sound reproduction and wide stereo image, making them an excellent tool for music producers. Its tonal depth and spaciousness are terrific, and it has the right amount of treble boost mixed with a mild bass. The DT 990 has a single-sided cable, so it’s easy to remove it and put it back in whenever you like. Its spring steel headband also assures users of a secure fit all the time. These headphones come in two colors: gray and black. If you prefer the black variant, you will have to pay about $10 more than what you pay for the gray version.
Superb sound qualityComfy velour-wrapped ear pads
Piercing highsCable isn't detachable
The Philips L2BO Fidelio Headphones should be on the top of your list if you’re looking for lightweight headphones. These are among the best lightweight headphones on the market for less than $200. It’s all because these headphones are made from anodized aluminum and plastic. You won’t see much plastic because the headband and ear pads are covered in high-quality leather. It comes in a sleek black color with eye-catching red stitching. Aside from its aesthetic, the L2BO Fidelio headphones also sound fantastic. The audio experience is somewhat roomy, thanks to its slightly-boosted mids and tight/punchy lower end. It’s safe to say that the headphones’ 40 mm drivers don’t disappoint. Each driver has a tiny hole to avoid any pressure build-up problems. If you plan to buy headphones because you want to listen to music outdoors, the L2BO Fidelio isn’t for you because it has a semi-open design and lacks noise cancellation features. These headphones are the perfect choice for people looking for a lightweight pair with superb sound quality if they are mainly going to use at them home or another quiet place.
Stylish and comfortable designSturdy and durableTop-notch drivers
No noise cancelling capabilities
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