Headphones come in all shapes and sizes. The same is true of their price tags. On the pricier end they can be as expensive as a sports car. If you are in doubt, google Utopia By Tournaire–the most expensive headphones in the world.
On the cheaper end, there are headphones that won’t cost a dime. To prove it, we started our search to find the best budget headphones, the raison d’etre of this article.
Under $10 is the minimum threshold one can set for the price of a decent headphone: a fact that we have come across while reading consumer reviews and evaluating headphones features on the internet. After hours spent scouring the internet, we have come across a list of 10 best cheap headphones under $10 that we would like to share with you.
What to (not) look for in a Cheap headphone under $10?
A buying guide for cheap headphones? You might be thinking what a ridiculous idea it is. Or, only a miser would think twice before buying a $10 product. Sorry for the misleading heading, this section has nothing to do with the features you look for in dirt cheap headphones. Rather, we will discuss here the features you would definitely not expect.
Adaptive Noise Cancellation:
In a 10 bucks headphones you must not expect any sort of noise cancellation, let aside adaptive or active noise cancellation. A few of them may offer some sort of isolation from the surroundings thanks to their heavy pads, and yet even they don’t keep all the noise from creeping in.
Find here the headphones that don’t leak sound.
High Quality Sound Delivery:
Quality sound is not the hallmark of budget headphones. The best they can deliver is subpar sound quality suitable for only listening to audiobooks and video calls given they afford a microphone for it. Music lovers would find them distasteful, movies lovers would hate them for ruining their favorite movie lines.
Bluetooth Or Wireless Connectivity:
There will be no wireless connectivity in a cheap headset– a feature even the premium ones don’t enjoy yet. Bluetooth connectivity, the number of products that have it on such a low budget is scarce. For wireless connectivity, you will have to pledge more money.
Premium Build Quality:
These cut-rate headphones usually have subpar build quality. The headband is usually of plastic and breaks even with a slight twist. The earpads are not thick or large enough and wear out over a short period of usage.
Moreover, they are the last headphones on the earth when it comes to comfort and convenience. You cannot put them on for hours as they hurt after a while. Also, their short extension cord may put you at unease.
There is a way out of it. You can buy an extension cord for the headphones, which ironically may cost you more than the headphone’s price.
Top 10 Best Cheap Headphones Under $10 In 2022
Koss KPH7 Lightweight Portable Headphone
8 used from $5.00
Design: On-ear | Microphone: No | Wirelength:4 ft | Plug: 3.5 mm | Headband: Adjustable
What We Like:
Obviously, the very first thing that took us by surprise is the dirt-cheap price tag of these headphones. With just over $5, this headphone costs you even less than a decent meal.
It is wired(4-foot long cable attached) and connects with devices via 3.5mm plug. (the 3.5mm plug connects at an angle and therefore lasts longer than a 2.5 mm plug) The overall profile is slim, weight considerably low, and the headband adjustable.
Lastly, these headphones come in a variety of colors to choose from. (to be specific, 6 colors)
What We Didn’t Like:
We had not expected high-end performance from these headsets, and it had equally not surprised us in sound quality. On a scale of 1 to 10, we would rate it 4.
Also, there is no microphone in the headset, you cannot attend conference calls with it. Another drawback is the lack of controls on the headsets.
Why should you buy it?
These headphones are not suitable for music lovers or professionals, for it lacks sound performance and is not equipped with a microphone and controls. The best use for these headsets is for listening to audiobooks, and therefore, the most suitable person for it is children.
Panasonic XBS RP-HT21
$11.96 in stock
Design: On-ear | Microphone: No | Wirelength:4.5 ft | Plug: 2.5 mm | Headband: Adjustable
What We Like:
To begin with, we were surprised by the fact that such a renowned company like Panasonic designed an inexpensive headset for its users.
As far as the headset (RP-HT21 )is concerned, it is extremely lightweight (1.2 ounces), fairly comfortable (on-ear design), quite sturdy, and sounds reasonably decent.
What We Didn’t Like:
The on-ear design of these headsets makes them unable to prevent sound leakage. The overall design is unimpressive, whereas its L-shaped jack might be incompatible with many smartphones.
Another major drawback is the absence of a microphone and quick-control buttons.
Why Should You Buy It:
Unlike Koss KPH7, these headphones are equally suitable for adults and children. With an improved bass response, they provide excellent entertainment value.
Design: On-ear | Microphone: Yes | Wirelength: 4-foot | Plug: 3.5 mm | Headband: Foldable
What We Like:
Elepinter isn’t a very popular name when it comes to headphones, and so does the Koss. One of the key reasons that we have added them in our list is that they both are offering cost-effective products.
Surprisingly enough, these headphones come with volume-limiting functions that prevent hearing impairment. Experts recommend a max volume of 85dB for no more than 60min/day to check noise-induced hearing loss–NIHL. Children are more susceptible to it than adults. Therefore, even if you don’t buy this particular model, it is your responsibility to get your child safe volume-limiting headphones.
The inclusion of a mic and quick controls makes it stand out from the crowd. It also features a sturdy, long 1.2 m wire. It features an on-ear design and is aesthetically appealing.
What We Didn’t Like:
There is nothing to find fault with as these headsets go above and beyond to provide the best features in a shoestring budget. Maybe a limited number of colors
Why Should You Buy It:
We highly recommend it for your children. However, adults can also squeeze out the best from them. They have everything that goes into a good headset.
IRAG J01 Kids Headphones
$11.99 in stock
Design: On-ear | Microphone: No | Wirelength: 5-foot | Plug: 3.5 mm | Headband: Foldable
What We Like:
IRAG has almost similar design as that of Elepinter, but the former comes with a 1-foot longer wire and has relatively soft padding. On the flip side, it doesn’t allow for volume-limiting function.
Like us, you will find it amusing that the headsets come with a 24-month warranty. We bet, no one will bother to claim it, and yet, the company deserves our appreciation.
What We Didn’t Like:
Honestly speaking we didn’t find any fault with it except for the lack of mic and controls.
Why Should You Buy it:
These headsets are suitable for children, and children only. Adults may find it difficult to wear as the headband is non-adjustable.
Rockpapa Over-Ear Headphones:
Design: Over-ear | Microphone: Yes | Wirelength: 4.9-foot | Plug: 3.5 mm | Headband: Adjustable
What We Like:
This headset comes in a variety of colors, has an over ear design. Rockpapa is a premium headset brand so there is little to worry about the sound quality.
We particularly loved the padding of the headsets which is fairly comfy and soft. Also, these headsets don’t leak sound, thus making excellent choices for watching movies and listening to music.
The adjustable band is another commendable feature which makes it suitable for both kids and adults. Also incorporated is the Mic and volume control buttons.
What We Didn’t Like:
These headphones are a little heavy and might hurt ears after long hearing sessions.
Why Should You Buy It:
These cheap headphones are suitable for both kids and adults. They have all the features to be used as an average headphone: you can attend conference calls, listen to your favourite music, and can enjoy your favourite audiobooks.
Kensington Hi-Fi On-Ear Headphones:
$10.24 in stock
Design: On-ear | Microphone: No | Wirelength:9 ft | Plug: 3.5 mm | Headband: Adjustable
What We Like:
The best feature is also the most significant one, and also the odd one: the 9-foot cord. If you like watching movies while relaxing on the sofa, this might be the godsend product for you. However, the same boon will become a curse if you use these headsets with small devices.
The headsets provide above average noise cancellation thanks to its padded ear cups. Plus, we would cautiously call them comfortable.
To snuggly fit it, there is an adjustable headband for the job. The adjustment is frictionless.
What We Didn’t Like:
To name a few things, we were utterly disappointed by its fragile design. Unless you take proper care of it, this headset would break within a few weeks of heavy usage. You cannot apply stress on these headsets, and you should dare not twist them.
Another major drawback is that within a few months of use, one of the two speakers, either left or right, stops working.
Why should you buy it?
You should rather not if you don’t have anything to do with a long cord. 9-foot cord is its selling point and rightly so.
Best Budget Headphones For Metal Detectors:
Califone Stereo/Mono Headphones
Design: Over-ear | Microphone: No | Wirelength:5 ft | Plug: 3.5 mm | Headband: Adjustable
What We Like:
This model by califone is the best budget choice for metal detectors. It comes with a ¼ inch adapter for all nearly metal detectors that have ¼ inch socket. Using these headsets you can get rid of ambient noise and focus better. Plus, you will save people in your surroundings from the annoying (beep) sound of metal detectors.
There is a dual control option on each ear cup for optimal listening, primarily helpful for those with hearing deficiencies. Also, you can switch between mono and stereo modes.
It provides noise cancellation to a low degree, but then something is better than nothing. The same goes for the comfort level. The headband and ear cups are cushioned for added comfort.
What We Didn’t Like:
The ear pushes against the plastic of the ear cups which is very discomforting. You cannot use it for more than 4 hours, and if it turns out to be tight on your large head, not more than 2 hours.
Why should you buy it?
As mentioned earlier, they are best suited for hobbies like metal detection. As per the company, it is an educational product and most appropriate for the usage of kids.
Cyber Acoustics Lightweight Headphones
$13.48 in stock
Design: On-ear | Microphone: No | Wirelength:5 ft | Plug: 3.5 mm | Headband: Adjustable
What We Like:
It is built to last for several months, if not years. They have a robust build and so can withstand a mild degree of abuse. The headband is sturdy, whereas the cord is braided for an extra layer of protection.
The leatherette ear pads and a light weight design, features we particularly liked about this product, contributes to user’s comfort . You can put it on for hours without any sign of discomfort.
Sound quality, as attested by hundreds of users, is above average, and way better than other headphones in our roundup.
What We Didn’t Like:
Though we didn’t expect the sound cancellation feature in budget headphones, there must be at least a little resistance to the background noise. This model miserably fails at preventing noise from entering into the ears. Also, it hurts the ears and the head if you wear glasses or have a shaved head.
Why should you buy it?
They are ideal to be used in classrooms for their robust construction. For adults, however, there are a few complications like the extra-tight fitting despite the adjustable headband.
Panasonic ErgoFit In-Ear Headphones
$12.99 in stock
Design: in-ear | Microphone: No | Wirelength:3.6 ft | Plug: 3.5 mm
What We Like:
They come in a variety of colors for a personalized choice, but their selling point is the snug fitting in the ear due to ergonomic design. Earbuds are included with the package.
For the most part, sound quality is excellent. You will love using them to listen to your favourite tracks or watching movies. And if you don’t trust my words, you would have to take account of Panasonic’s reputation which is without any doubt unstained.
What We Didn’t Like:
We would have nothing against it, had the company outfitted this model with a long cord. The 3.6 ft cord may seem a good fit for small devices, you will have a hard time using it with your pc or laptop.
Moreover, the cord is fragile. A sudden jerk, inevitable during an extended period of usage, would snap it apart into pieces.
Why should you buy it?
You should definitely buy it for its crystal clear sound and ergonomic design. Plus, of course for the value, it provides in such a limited budget. And if the features seem inadequate for a $10 purchase, I would have a hard time wondering what can be more valuable for you in this range.
Design: in-ear | Microphone: No | Wirelength:3.9 ft | Plug: 3.5 mm | Headband: foldable
What We Like:
The feature we absolutely loved about this headphone is the detachable cable. And also, the foldable design. The cable has Double-braided nylon exterior to make it durable and flexible. The foldable design makes it easier to carry around.
Although it would not count as the feature, the company’s customer support is responsive and dependable. In case of any defect pre arrival, you can get a new pair of headphones.
What We Didn’t Like:
These might not turn out to be the most durable headphones and can sustain abuse a little over nothing. You would have to take special care of it, especially while folding them.
It is not suitable for people with big heads. Also, they might hurt those who have a shaved head as there is no padding of any sort on the headband.
Why should you buy it?
Light-weight design with foldable features is the best two benefits of these headphones apart from, of course, the budget. These headphones are suitable for adults, teenagers, and children alike.
Conclusion:
Many items in our list are suitable for children or are limited in their function. (Except for Rockpapa On-Ear Headphones) However, as we are investing very little in them, there is little to complain about. All these headphones, irrespective of their old-fashioned design or lacking features, offer enormous value for the money you are going to spend on them.
FAQS:
Are cheap headphones bad for your ears?
Answer: Cheap headphones have little to no noise cancellation. Neither active nor passive. In order to cancel the effect of background noise, or to listen to fine details of the sound, you will be tempted to turn up the volume which, in turn, can lead to noise-induced hearing loss.
Are cheap headphones worth it?
They have a great value for the money. When used properly, they inflict no physical harm to you. And if you’re a little prudent in your choice, there is a good chance you will get a pair with adequate padding and adjustable design for comfort. So yes, cheap headphones are definitely worth it.
How long do cheap headphones last?
It relates to the usage of headphones. Cheap headphones are not usually made to last for years, but you can shell out the best of them if you are a little cautious in their use. To put it into exact figures, a good pair may last more than 6 months but not more than a year.
How do make cheap headphones sound better/louder?
There are two ways to do that. The hard way and the soft way. The hard way requires technical expertise and it takes opening up the headphone to tweak the hardware to amplify its sound. The soft way involves changing the setting on your smart devices to remove the volume cap.
It is not worth it to make the cheap headphone better unless you are a DIY enthusiast. You should invest in a good headset if you cannot compromise on the sound quality.
Do cheap headphones work with PS4 and Xbox?
To cut a long story short, yes they do. However, we would advise you to invest a little more to get gaming headsets for these consoles. Cheap headphones don’t and cannot promise you a great sound quality, which for gamers is a must-have.
Kevin is a Tech journalist for over a decade. He writes on Wearables, Headphones, and Laptops. When he is not glued to his laptop, You will find him working on exciting projects that include Unboxing new Gadgets, comparing them, and tweaking their hardware.