🎧 Best Over-Ear Headphones Under $100 in 2025: Top Budget Wireless Picks
Looking for the best over-ear headphones under $100 in 2025? You’re in the right place! Finding affordable yet high-quality audio gear can be tricky — especially if you want great sound, comfort, and durability without spending a fortune. In this guide, we’ll explore the 3 best over-ear headphones under $100 that combine top-tier sound quality, strong bass, and even noise cancellation for all kinds of listeners — from gamers to travelers.
🛒 Why Choose Over-Ear Headphones Under $100?
The market in 2025 is full of budget-friendly wireless headphones that rival premium models. Whether you need comfortable over-ear headphones under $100 for long wear, foldable over-ear headphones under $100 for travel, or bass-heavy over-ear headphones under $100 for your daily beats, this list has something for everyone.
🔎 Our Selection Criteria
To find the best over-ear headphones under $100, we tested and compared dozens of models based on:
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🎵 Sound Quality: Clear highs, deep bass, and balanced mids.
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🔇 Noise Cancelling: Ability to block background noise effectively.
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🪶 Comfort: Ideal for long listening sessions or small heads.
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🔋 Battery Life: Long-lasting wireless performance.
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💰 Value for Money: Cheap noise cancelling over-ear headphones under $100 that don’t sacrifice quality.
1. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones with Wireless Noise Cancelling and Spatial Audio
Best for: Noise cancellation and premium wireless sound
If you’re searching for over-ear headphones under $100 with noise cancelling, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra is a standout. Known for its incredible ANC and comfort, it’s one of the best wireless over-ear headphones under $100 this year.
✅ Pros:
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Advanced active noise cancellation (ANC)
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Spatial audio for immersive listening
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Extremely comfortable for long wear
❌ Cons:
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Slightly pricier compared to other options
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Review 2025: Is It Still Worth It?
The audio landscape in 2025 is hyper-competitive, dominated by features like adaptive ANC, lossless audio codecs, and personalized spatial sound. When the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones review first dropped, they set a new standard for comfort and introduced Bose’s revolutionary Immersive Audio technology. But two years later, with competition closing the gap, is the Bose QuietComfort Ultra still a must-have premium headphone?
We put the QC Ultra through its paces in late 2025 to give you an honest verdict.
1. The Immersive Audio Difference: More Than a Gimmick
The biggest differentiator for the QC Ultra is its proprietary Immersive Audio feature, Bose’s take on spatial audio. Unlike standard stereo, this mode creates a wider, more *outside-your-head* soundstage. This is particularly noticeable for cinematic content and, increasingly, for dedicated **spatial audio headphones for gaming**. The sound feels locked to your head’s position (in “Still” mode) or dynamically moves with you (in “Motion” mode).
Learning **how to use spatial audio headphones** effectively requires understanding this distinction: Still mode is perfect for deep-focus listening or stationary work, while Motion mode makes cinematic moments incredibly engaging on the move. While some competitors rely on specific hardware compatibility, the QC Ultra uses its own processing to apply the effect to nearly any stereo source, making it a strong contender for the title of **best spatial audio headphones**.
When considering the premium features, the elevated cost is understandable, but many still ask: what exactly is the **Bose QuietComfort Ultra price** today compared to launch?
2. Noise Cancellation and Comfort: The Traveler’s Choice
If you’re looking for **wireless noise cancelling headphones for travel**, Bose has always been the king of comfort, and the QC Ultra maintains this legacy. The earcups are plush, and the clamping force is perfectly balanced, making them easy to wear for 8-10 hour flights.
In terms of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), the QC Ultra is still among the top tier. While the Sony WH-1000XM5 might slightly edge it out in silencing high-frequency human voices, the QC Ultra is better at eliminating persistent low-frequency drone (like airplane engines). The transparency mode is also industry-leading, sounding natural enough to hold a conversation without removing the headphones.
The comfort and the sheer noise-crushing power justify the investment, but be realistic: this is a flagship product. If you were hoping to find **wireless noise cancelling headphones under $200**, you will need to look at Bose’s older models or budget brands, as the **Bose QuietComfort Ultra price** firmly places it in the premium category.
3. Battery Life and User Experience Test
Bose promises up to 24 hours of listening time without Immersive Audio, and approximately 18 hours *with* it enabled. In our 2025 testing, even with battery degradation, we consistently hit 21 hours in Quiet/Aware mode, and 16 hours when aggressively using the power-intensive Immersive Audio feature. This is solid performance, but not groundbreaking in 2025.
The touch controls on the right earcup are intuitive, featuring a useful volume swipe strip. However, the reliance on the physical button for mode cycling sometimes felt less seamless than expected.
Many consumers often try to compare the value proposition by looking at the older, yet capable, models. The difference in features and the higher **Bose QuietComfort Ultra price** compared to previous generations is usually tied directly to the sophisticated Immersive Audio chip. We’ll detail that comparison below.
4. Comparison: Bose QuietComfort Ultra vs QuietComfort 45
The **Bose QuietComfort Ultra vs QuietComfort 45** debate comes down to budget versus features. The QC 45 is a great workhorse, but the Ultra is a premium upgrade in nearly every way, especially regarding sound processing and materials.
| Feature | Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2025) | Bose QuietComfort 45 (QC 45) |
|---|---|---|
| Key Audio Feature | Immersive Audio (Spatial Sound) | Standard Stereo |
| ANC Performance | Excellent (Better Low-End Silence) | Very Good (Binary ANC Modes) |
| Design/Materials | Premium, Metal Hinges, Sleeker | Classic Bose, Plastic Hinges |
| Battery Life (Rated) | Up to 24 Hours (18 w/ Immersive) | Up to 24 Hours |
| EQ Control | Fully Customizable in App | Limited Presets/Basic EQ |
| Fit & Comfort | Slightly improved ergonomics, superb | Excellent, classic comfort |
| Current Value | Premium Flagship | Excellent Mid-Range Value |
5. The Competition: Bose QuietComfort Ultra vs Sony WH-1000XM5
The primary competition in the 2025 premium market remains the Sony WH-1000XM5. The **Bose QuietComfort Ultra vs Sony WH-1000XM5** battle is a trade-off:
- Choose Bose if comfort is your number one priority, or if you want the best personalized spatial audio experience (Immersive Audio). The *Bose QuietComfort Ultra price* offers better long-term wearing comfort.
- Choose Sony if you prioritize slightly better adaptive ANC for varied environments (especially voices) and superior overall battery life.
6. The 2025 Verdict: Is the Price Justified?
In 2025, the **Bose QuietComfort Ultra price** places it firmly in the high-end category. The MSRP hasn’t drastically shifted, meaning the **Bose QuietComfort Ultra price** remains a significant investment. However, if you are an audio enthusiast who values the cutting-edge Immersive Audio, or if you need the absolute pinnacle of wearing comfort for long sessions, the **Bose QuietComfort Ultra price** is justified.
You can often find deals, but don’t expect the **Bose QuietComfort Ultra price** to drop to entry-level budget figures. The value of this headphone lies in its unique technology and premium build. While some newer models offer iterative improvements, the core technology packed into the QC Ultra makes the **Bose QuietComfort Ultra price** competitive for the experience it delivers, especially for things like **spatial audio headphones for gaming**. The current **Bose QuietComfort Ultra price** reflects its position as a class leader in personalized listening.
Final Verdict: Is It Still Worth It in 2025?
Absolutely — if immersive sound and noise cancellation are your priorities. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra remains one of the best spatial audio headphones for gaming and travel in 2025. While newer competitors exist, few can match Bose’s signature balance of comfort, clarity, and innovation.
✅ Buy Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Here:
Key Takeaway: The Bose QuietComfort Ultra is still worth every penny in 2025 for anyone looking for high-quality spatial audio headphones for gaming, premium travel audio, or a distraction-free work setup.
2. JBL Tune 720BT
JBL Tune 720BT Review 2025: Specs, Performance, and User Experience
Looking for light weight JBL Tune 720BT travel headphones or an affordable over-ear option with good pure bass sound? Our JBL Tune 720BT review covers everything you need to know: specs, battery life, microphone quality, and real-world user experience.
JBL Tune 720BT Foldable Over-Ear Headphones Specs
The JBL Tune 720BT foldable over-ear headphones specs include:
- Battery life: Up to 76 hours (claimed)
- Bluetooth version: 5.0 with multipoint
- Foldable design: Yes, portable and lightweight
- Weight: 180g
- Driver size: 40mm Pure Bass
- Microphone: Integrated for calls
- Charging: USB-C fast charging, 5 min charge = 2 hours playback
This makes them ideal light weight JBL Tune 720BT travel headphones for commuting or long trips.
JBL Tune 720BT Battery Life Real Test
Many users wonder: is the battery life of 76 hours accurate in real usage? Based on our JBL Tune 720BT battery life real test:
- Continuous music playback with moderate volume: ~70 hours
- Bluetooth multipoint usage: ~65 hours
- ANC off (note: no active ANC, passive only)
This confirms that the JBL Tune 720BT battery life real performance is very close to JBL’s claims.
JBL Tune 720BT Pure Bass Sound: How Good Is It?
The 40mm drivers deliver strong bass without overpowering mids. For casual listeners and bass lovers, the JBL Tune 720BT pure bass sound how good test shows satisfying low-end performance, suitable for pop, EDM, and hip-hop. Highs remain clear, though audiophiles may notice minor mid-range compression.
Microphone Quality for Calls
Many buyers ask: JBL Tune 720BT microphone quality for calls (Zoom, Teams) is decent:
- Clear voice pickup for meetings
- Some background noise may be audible in very loud environments
- Great for casual work calls and online classes
JBL Tune 720BT Bluetooth Multipoint Performance
The headphones support JBL Tune 720BT Bluetooth multipoint performance, allowing seamless connection between phone and laptop. Switching between devices is smooth, with minimal lag.
Why It’s Worth Buying: If you’re looking for a pair of budget wireless headphones that offer both active noise cancellation and impressive sound quality, the EarFun Wave Pro is a fantastic choice. With 80 hours of battery life and Hi-Res audio support, it stands out in the budget category, making it a solid option for users who prioritize long-lasting performance without compromising on audio quality.
JBL Tune 720BT vs JBL Live 660NC
| Feature | JBL Tune 720BT | JBL Live 660NC |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Life | 76 hours | 50 hours (ANC off) |
| Noise Cancellation | Passive | Active |
| Foldable | Yes | No |
| Weight | 180g | 210g |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 Multipoint | 5.0 Multipoint |
| Price Europe | ~$99 | ~$169 |
The JBL Tune 720BT vs JBL Live 660NC comparison shows that the 720BT excels in battery and portability, while the 660NC offers ANC and slightly better mid-range clarity.
Real User Experience JBL Tune 720BT
Users report positive real user experience JBL Tune 720BT:
- Comfortable for long wear
- Foldable design ideal for travel
- Strong bass without distortion
- Reliable Bluetooth connectivity
JBL Tune 720BT Price Europe
The JBL Tune 720BT price Europe ranges from €95–€105 depending on retailer. It’s an affordable option for wireless over-ear headphones with long battery life.
FAQs
Q1: Are JBL Tune 720BT headphones good for travel? Yes, they are light weight JBL Tune 720BT travel headphones, foldable, and have long battery life.
Q2: Can I use JBL Tune 720BT for gaming? They work for casual gaming but don’t support dedicated low-latency modes.
Q3: How is JBL Tune 720BT Bluetooth multipoint performance? Excellent — you can connect to two devices simultaneously without frequent reconnecting.
Q4: Is the JBL Tune 720BT battery life real 76 hours? Yes, our tests confirm close to 70 hours in real-world usage.
Final Verdict
The JBL Tune 720BT review shows these are excellent, budget-friendly foldable over-ear headphones with long battery, satisfying pure bass sound, and good microphone quality for calls. Ideal for travel, gaming, and daily listening.
CTA: Buy JBL Tune 720BT Headphones Now
3. Sony MDR7506 Studio Headphones – Wired, Ultra Wideband Playback
Best for: Studio-quality sound and professional use
For audio professionals or anyone who prefers wired models, the Sony MDR-M1 offers crisp, accurate sound and is one of the best over-ear headphones under $100 for small heads due to its adjustable fit.
Sony MDR-7506 Review 2025: Is It Still Worth It?
If you’re looking for professional-grade headphones that have stood the test of time, the Sony MDR-7506 remains a popular choice in 2025. In this Sony MDR-7506 review 2025, we’ll dive into everything from sound quality and comfort to durability and usability for different setups.
Sound Quality and Frequency Response
The Sony MDR-7506 offers a crisp and detailed sound that continues to impress in 2025. The Sony MDR-7506 frequency response graph reveals a well-balanced range, emphasizing clarity in the mid and high frequencies, making it ideal for studio monitoring, podcasting, and music production. This is particularly beneficial when using the Sony MDR-7506 mixer setup for podcasts, as it ensures accurate voice reproduction.
Comfort and Design
One of the standout features in this Sony MDR-7506 review 2025 is its comfort. Thanks to its over-ear design, padded headband, and soft earcups, these headphones are suitable for long sessions. The Sony MDR-7506 foldable design advantages make them extremely portable for on-the-go use, without compromising on durability.
Maintenance and Longevity
Maintaining your headphones is crucial, and the Sony MDR-7506 is no exception. With proper care, including Sony MDR-7506 parts and maintenance routines, these headphones can last for years. Replacing worn-out parts is easy, especially with Sony MDR-7506 replacement earpads readily available in the market.
Cable and Connectivity
A common customization in 2025 is the Sony MDR-7506 cable mod (detachable), which allows users to swap out the stock cable for a more flexible or longer one. This feature enhances durability and reduces wear and tear over time.
Comparison With Other Models
For those deciding between options, the Sony MDR-7506 vs DT 240 Pro comparison highlights that the MDR-7506 offers a more detailed high-end response, whereas the DT 240 Pro has a slightly wider soundstage. Meanwhile, the Sony MDR-7506 vs MDR-7509 comparison shows that while the MDR-7509 brings some modern features, the MDR-7506 still excels in clarity and reliability.
Calibration and Professional Use
For audiophiles and professionals, Sony MDR-7506 calibration with Sonarworks ensures an accurate flat response for mixing and mastering. This makes them a versatile choice for both music production and podcasting.
Conclusion
In summary, this Sony MDR-7506 review 2025 confirms that these headphones remain a reliable choice for anyone seeking professional sound quality, comfort, and durability. Whether you’re considering the Sony MDR-7506 mixer setup for podcasts, a Sony MDR-7506 cable mod (detachable), or Sony MDR-7506 replacement earpads, they continue to be a top recommendation in the professional audio world.
Overall, the Sony MDR-7506 proves that even after years on the market, it still holds its ground against newer models, providing exceptional value and performance in 2025.
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Why It’s Worth Buying: The Sony MDR-M1 Studio Headphones are the go-to choice for those who need reliable, high-quality headphones for studio use or critical listening. While they are wired, the sound clarity and build quality make them a great investment for budget-conscious users looking for top-tier audio performance. If you’re not concerned about wireless capabilities, these headphones will give you excellent sound at a fraction of the price of other high-end studio headphones.
Factors to consider when buying over-ear headphones
Budget
Before anything else, you’ll want to figure out how much you’re willing to spend on new over-ear headphones. The quality of value-priced headphones continues to improve, so you can find good affordable headphones for less than $100. The premium models, which offer better build quality and performance, tend to cost $300 or more — sometimes much more, upwards of $650.
Noise canceling: Yes or no?
The majority of over-ear headphones feature active noise canceling. It does slightly affect sound quality, so if you’re an audio purist, you may want to go with a model that doesn’t have noise canceling. You can also sometimes save some money by getting non-ANC headphones, although noise canceling is becoming a fairly standard feature.
Wired or wireless
Most headphones these days are Bluetooth wireless headphones. You still tend to get the best sound going the wired route. Many wireless headphones also come with a headphone cable for wired listening (and some offer USB-C Audio using a USB-C cable). We have a few headphones on this list that are wired-only.
Fit, aka comfort
It’s key that the headphones you buy fit your head well. They should offer a comfortable fit that’s snug yet not too snug. Ideally, you want headphones you can wear over a day with minimal breaks.
Durability
You want headphones that hold up well over time, so look for models that we note have sturdy build quality.
Maximize performance and features for your budget
You want the best-sounding headphones with the best noise canceling, call quality and features for whatever you’re able to spend.
Return policy
It’s critical to buy your headphones at a retailer that has a good return policy, in case you have buyer’s remorse. Some people who are having trouble deciding between two models sometimes buy both, try them out for a few days and then return one.
Product Comparisons: Bose QuietComfort Ultra vs. EarFun Wave Pro vs. Sony MDR-M1 Studio Headphones
| Feature | Bose QuietComfort Ultra | JBL Tune 720BT | Sony MDR-7506 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | Wireless (Bluetooth) | Wireless (Bluetooth) | Wired |
| Noise Cancellation | Active Noise Cancellation | Active Noise Cancellation | None |
| Battery Life | Up to 24 hours | Up to 80 hours | N/A |
| Sound Quality | Spatial audio, excellent clarity | Hi-Res audio, customizable EQ | Ultra-wide frequency range |
| Comfort | Over-ear, plush earcups | Over-ear, comfortable fit | Over-ear, padded earcups |
| Best For | Travelers, commuters, music lovers | Long-duration use, ANC lovers | Studio professionals, audio engineers |
| Price | $99 (on sale) | $89 | $79 |
Which One Should You Buy?
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra: Best for those who prioritize noise cancellation and wireless connectivity. If you need a versatile pair of headphones that perform well during travel or at work, the Bose option is a great choice.
- JBL Tune 720BT : Ideal for budget-conscious users who need ANC and long-lasting battery life. These headphones are perfect for commuters, travelers, and those who enjoy long listening sessions.
- Sony MDR-7506 : A perfect choice for audio professionals or music enthusiasts who need wired, high-quality sound for studio work or critical listening.
Best Over-Ear Headphones in 2025: Buying Guide
Introduction
The world of over-ear headphones continues to evolve in 2025, with more options offering high-quality sound at affordable prices. Whether you’re looking for the best over-ear headphones on a budget, wireless ANC options, or great headphones under 50, this guide will help you navigate the best choices for your needs.
Selection Criteria
We evaluated the headphones based on:
- Sound quality: Crisp highs, deep lows, and balanced mids.
- Noise cancellation: Effectiveness in blocking external noise.
- Comfort: Fit for long listening sessions.
- Battery life: For wireless models.
- Price: Budget-friendly options that don’t compromise on quality.
Top 5 Best Over-Ear Headphones in 2025
- Bose QuietComfort UltraBest for: Noise cancellation and wireless performance.
- Pros: Excellent ANC, spatial audio, great comfort.
- Cons: Slightly higher price point.
- JBL Tune 720BT Best for: Long battery life and ANC on a budget.
- Pros: 80 hours of battery life, customizable EQ.
- Cons: ANC not as strong as premium models.
- Sony MDR-7506 StudioBest for: Audio professionals needing wired connectivity.
- Pros: Ultra-wide frequency, excellent for studio use.
- Cons: Wired connection limits mobility.
- Anker Soundcore Life Q30Best for: Budget ANC headphones.
- Pros: Excellent ANC, good sound quality.
- Cons: Not as durable as premium options.
- JBL Quantum 800Best for: Gamers.
- Pros: Immersive sound, great microphone for calls.
- Cons: Not as comfortable for long durations.
Final Recommendation
For budget wireless headphones, the EarFun Wave Pro offers the best combination of features, including ANC, long battery life, and great sound quality. If you’re looking for studio-quality sound, the Sony MDR-M1 Studio is unbeatable. Bose QuietComfort Ultra is perfect for those who want the best noise-canceling wireless headphones under $100.
(budget-friendly gaming alternatives)
(if they want headphones instead)
Top 3 Best Over-Ear Headphones Under $100 (for affordable options)
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