Best Headphones for Under $500

Discover top-rated headphones that deliver premium sound quality, advanced features, and exceptional comfort—all for under $500. Our carefully curated selection is ranked based on real user reviews, ensuring... you find the perfect pair to match your listening style and budget. Whether you're an audiophile, a frequent traveler, or someone who simply enjoys immersive audio experiences, these headphones offer outstanding performance without breaking the bank. Explore our picks to find the best options that combine value, durability, and impressive audio clarity.
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What to look for in the best headphones under $500

1. Sound Quality

Look for headphones that deliver clear highs, detailed mids, and powerful bass. High-resolution audio support and well-tuned drivers can make a significant difference in your listening experience.

2. Noise Cancellation

Active noise cancellation (ANC) is a must-have for many users, especially if you travel or work in noisy environments. Check for effective ANC performance without sacrificing sound quality.

3. Comfort and Build Quality

Premium headphones should feel comfortable during long listening sessions. Consider models with plush ear cushions, adjustable headbands, and durable materials to ensure long-lasting use.

4. Battery Life and Connectivity

For wireless headphones, battery life is crucial—look for at least 20 hours of playtime per charge. Also, check for Bluetooth version compatibility and additional features like multipoint pairing or quick charging.
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  1. 1
    Sony WH-1000XM5 Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones - Black The best of the best, great in sound and options

    About this product

    A black over-ear Bluetooth headset offering industry-leading noise cancellation and exceptional sound clarity for immersive listening.

    A black over-ear Bluetooth headset offering industry-leading noise cancellation and exceptional sound clarity for immersive listening.

    What customers like

    • Lightweight and comfortable fit
    • Exceptional noise cancellation
    • Outstanding sound quality
    • Intuitive touch controls and app customization
    • Long battery life with fast charging
    (7,254)
    $348.00
    SAVE $152
    Your price for this item is $348
  2. 2
    Skullcandy Crusher Evo Over-Ear Sound Isolating Bluetooth Headphones - Black Love 'em! Best ones yet that I've had

    About this product

    A pair of black wireless over-ear headphones with adjustable sensory bass and personalized sound for immersive listening.

    A pair of black wireless over-ear headphones with adjustable sensory bass and personalized sound for immersive listening.

    What customers like

    • Excellent sound quality with powerful, adjustable bass
    • Comfortable fit with plush ear cups and lightweight design
    • Customizable and personalized audio experience
    • Long battery life and fast charging features
    • Sturdy build quality and stylish design
    (6,878)
    $199.99 Your price for this item is $199.99
  3. 3
    Sony MDR-ZX110 Over-Ear Headphones - White Great strong bass

    About this product

    A foldable, lightweight pair of over-ear headphones delivering powerful sound in a stylish white finish.

    A foldable, lightweight pair of over-ear headphones delivering powerful sound in a stylish white finish.

    What customers like

    • Durable and sturdy build
    • Affordable and great value
    • Good sound quality for the price
    • Comfortable and lightweight design
    • Foldable and portable for easy storage
    (6,021)
    $19.98
    SAVE $5
    Your price for this item is $19.98
  4. 4
    Sony On-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones (MDRZX110NC) - Black Love them

    About this product

    A pair of black on-ear headphones offering up to 95% noise cancellation and sound-isolating technology.

    A pair of black on-ear headphones offering up to 95% noise cancellation and sound-isolating technology.

    What customers like

    • Comfortable for extended use
    • Effective noise cancellation
    • Great value for the price
    • Lightweight and compact design
    • Excellent sound quality
    (5,276)
    $59.99 Your price for this item is $59.99
  5. 5
    BEATS BY DR. DRE Solo3 Icon On-Ear Sound Isolating Bluetooth Headphones - Matte - In Black The best !!!!!! amazing love it !!!!!’ Great shopping

    About this product

    A pair of matte black Bluetooth headphones offering sound isolation, cushioned comfort, and rapid Fast Fuel charging.

    A pair of matte black Bluetooth headphones offering sound isolation, cushioned comfort, and rapid Fast Fuel charging.

    What customers like

    • Comfortable and stylish design
    • Effective noise isolation and cancellation
    • Easy wireless connectivity and controls
    • Excellent sound quality
    • Long battery life with fast charging
    (4,626)
    $183.00
    SAVE $66
    Your price for this item is $183
  6. 6
    Skullcandy Crusher Over-Ear Sound Isolating Wireless Headphones with Microphone - Black - Only at Best Buy Great battery life

    About this product

    A pair of black wireless over-ear headphones featuring immersive sound, sound isolation, and a built-in microphone.

    A pair of black wireless over-ear headphones featuring immersive sound, sound isolation, and a built-in microphone.

    What customers like

    • Sturdy build and durable construction
    • Powerful and adjustable bass
    • Excellent sound quality
    • Long battery life with fast charging
    • Comfortable fit and ergonomic design
    (3,726)
    $99.99 Your price for this item is $99.99
  7. 7
    JLab JBuds Lux Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones - Cloud Sounds great

    About this product

    A pair of cloud-coloured over-ear Bluetooth headphones with active noise cancelling and immersive 40mm drivers.

    A pair of cloud-coloured over-ear Bluetooth headphones with active noise cancelling and immersive 40mm drivers.

    What customers like

    • Attractive design
    • Great sound quality
    • Effective noise cancelling
    • Excellent value for price
    • Comfortable fit
    (3,634)
    $119.99 Your price for this item is $119.99
  8. 8
    JLab JBuds LUX Over-Ear Noise Cancelling True Wireless Headphones - Mauve - Only at Best Buy Great Quality

    About this product

    A mauve over-ear wireless headphone featuring 40mm drivers, active noise cancelling, and 70+ hours battery life.

    A mauve over-ear wireless headphone featuring 40mm drivers, active noise cancelling, and 70+ hours battery life.

    What customers like

    • Long battery life
    • Very comfortable fit
    • Attractive color and stylish design
    • Effective active noise cancellation
    • Excellent sound quality
    (3,626)
    $119.99 Your price for this item is $119.99
  9. 9
    Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 Over-Ear Sound Isolating Bluetooth Headphones - Black Love them! Great Bass, Great

    About this product

    An over-ear Bluetooth headset in black featuring active noise cancelling, adjustable sensory bass, and foldable design.

    An over-ear Bluetooth headset in black featuring active noise cancelling, adjustable sensory bass, and foldable design.

    What customers like

    • Customizable sound and controls
    • Long battery life
    • Powerful and adjustable bass
    • Comfortable fit and design
    • Effective active noise cancellation
    (3,295)
    $299.99 Your price for this item is $299.99
  10. 10
    Beats By Dr. Dre Studio Pro Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones - Sandstone Best on Market

    About this product

    A powerful sandstone over-ear headphone with active noise cancelling, transparency mode, and 40-hour battery life.

    A powerful sandstone over-ear headphone with active noise cancelling, transparency mode, and 40-hour battery life.

    What customers like

    • Long battery life
    • Comfortable and stylish design
    • Easy connectivity with Apple devices
    • Effective noise cancellation
    • Clear and balanced sound quality
    (3,091)
    $469.99 Your price for this item is $469.99

FAQ

What features should I look for in headphones under $500? + -

When shopping for headphones under $500, consider features like active noise cancellation, wireless connectivity (Bluetooth), battery life, comfort, sound quality, and compatibility with your devices. Some models also offer customizable sound profiles and touch controls.

Are wireless headphones as reliable as wired ones in this price range? + -

Yes, many wireless headphones under $500 offer reliable connections and high-quality audio performance. Advances in Bluetooth technology have minimized lag and improved sound fidelity, making wireless options a popular choice for both casual listeners and audiophiles.

Can headphones under $500 deliver high-fidelity sound? + -

Absolutely. Many headphones in this price range are designed to deliver high-fidelity audio with clear highs, balanced mids, and deep bass. Look for models from reputable brands known for their audio engineering to ensure premium sound quality.

What is the difference between over-ear and on-ear headphones? + -

Over-ear headphones fully enclose your ears, providing better noise isolation and comfort for long listening sessions. On-ear headphones rest on top of your ears, offering a lighter feel but typically less passive noise isolation compared to over-ear designs.

Do headphones under $500 support voice assistants? + -

Many modern headphones in this price range include built-in support for voice assistants like Google Assistant or Siri. This allows you to control music playback, make calls, or get information hands-free using simple voice commands.

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