Find the best value headphones in 2026
Great sound doesn't have to be expensive:
- Sound Quality - Enjoyable tuning that rivals pricier options
- Decent ANC - Effective noise cancellation at lower prices
- Reliable Build - Solid construction without premium tax
- Essential Features - Wireless, good battery, comfortable fit
Best Headphones under £40 for best value
EarFun Tune Pro HP220B
Great Alternatives
These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs
Tribit QuietPlus BTQ81
Why we recommend this ▼
Its 110-hour battery life (70 with ANC), 45dB hybrid noise cancelling via five microphones, and 40mm drivers with quick XBass boost deliver exceptional endurance and noise blocking. A foldable, memory-foam design plus six EQ presets in the companion app add lightweight comfort and sound tailoring at a budget-friendly price. Best for commuters and remote workers who need all-day listening, effective background noise reduction, and travel-ready durability over critical studio monitoring.
UGREEN HiTune Max5c HP203
Why we recommend this ▼
Featuring 40mm dynamic drivers and LDAC codec for Hi-Res wireless audio, its 43dB adaptive ANC is backed by a 75-hour battery life when noise cancellation is off. The 264g foldable design and app with eight EQ presets add convenience, while USB-C wired audio and dual-device connectivity expand its versatility. It’s best for budget-minded commuters and casual gamers who prioritize all-day battery life and effective noise reduction over call quality.
TSYUCXH T10
Why we recommend this ▼
Advanced ANC technology actively reduces ambient noise in crowded environments, while the 60-hour battery life in standard mode outlasts most competitors for long-haul travel. The 280g build combines with protein leather earcups and an adjustable angle design to maintain comfort during extended wear, backed by a 2-year warranty. These headphones are best for budget-conscious commuters and remote workers who prioritize all-day battery life and clear call quality over critical studio listening.
EarFun K2
Why we recommend this ▼
The 40-hour battery and Bluetooth 5.4 provide cable-free reliability, while the 40mm drivers produce crisp stereo audio within a WHO-recommended 85/94dB volume limit to safeguard young ears. At 176g with a foldable, wear-resistant build and soft memory foam padding, these CPC-certified headphones combine lightweight comfort with kid-proof durability. Ideal for parents who want a long-lasting, volume-limited audio solution for children’s schoolwork, travel, and tablet entertainment.
EarFun Wave Life HP201B
Why we recommend this ▼
Hybrid active noise cancellation filters out up to 94% of ambient noise with a 45dB reduction, powered by 40mm composite drivers and a 60-hour battery life in normal mode. Weighing just 254g with 90° rotating ear cups, soft cushions, and Bluetooth 5.4 multipoint, it stays comfortable all day and switches seamlessly between devices. These headphones are ideal for budget-conscious commuters and remote workers who prioritize long battery life and clear AI-powered calls for all-day use.
Edifier W800BT Pro
Why we recommend this ▼
Hybrid ANC and Hi-Res audio over Bluetooth 5.4 deliver clear, detailed sound with effective noise reduction for the price. The 45-hour battery life with fast charging ensures all-day use without frequent top-ups. These are best for budget-conscious commuters and remote workers who prioritize call clarity and wireless convenience over studio-grade accuracy.
Jimonyer V3
Why we recommend this ▼
The hardwired 85dB volume limit and 40mm dynamic drivers prioritize hearing safety without sacrificing full stereo sound. The foldable, water-resistant design with ultra-soft earmuffs makes these 159g headphones durable and practical for travel and daily use. These are best for parents seeking a wired, universally compatible headset for young children using tablets or Chromebooks for schoolwork and entertainment.
Belkin SoundForm Adapt AUD005BTBLK
Why we recommend this ▼
A 65-hour battery life and Bluetooth 5.2 multipoint connectivity make this a reliable all-day headset for switching between work and personal devices. The flip-to-mute boom microphone with environmental noise cancellation ensures clear calls, while the foldable, padded design adds practical portability. This headset is best for remote workers and casual gamers who need a durable, wireless headset with a dedicated boom mic for extended use.
JLab Go Work Pop HBGWRKPOPRLLC4
Why we recommend this ▼
With 50+ hours of battery life and weighing just 101g, this on-ear headset uses Bluetooth 5.3 multipoint to switch seamlessly between devices. The rotating boom mic with noise-canceling MEMS delivers clear calls, and the dedicated EQ modes optimize for voice or music. It’s best for remote workers who take frequent calls or budget gamers needing all-day wireless sessions.
JLab HJKSTUDIORGRYBLU6
Why we recommend this ▼
Its 40mm dynamic drivers and ultra-light 136g foldable design make it a standout wired option for simple, tangle-free listening. The inclusion of voice assistant support and a fully recyclable package adds practical, eco-conscious value rarely seen at this level. This headset is best for parents seeking an affordable, durable, and size-appropriate wired headphone for kids' schoolwork and entertainment.
Sony ZX Series MDRZX310APB.CE7
Why we recommend this ▼
The 30mm neodymium drivers deliver a dynamic sound with powerful bass and smooth treble transitions, while the 1000 mW power handling withstands high output without distortion. Its lightweight 125g folding design with pressure-relieving swivel earpads ensures comfortable portability, and the integrated mic with a customizable Smart Key app adds convenient control for Android devices. These are best for budget-conscious commuters and students who need a durable, tangle-resistant wired headset for clear calls and casual music listening.
awatrue HK02
Why we recommend this ▼
A built-in 85dB volume limiter and 40mm drivers deliver safe, rich stereo sound that protects children's hearing. The foldable, 90-degree rotatable design with a reinforced headband survives daily abuse, while the 75-hour battery life and 5-minute quick charge eliminate power anxiety on long trips. These headphones are best for parents seeking a durable, hearing-safe wireless option for school, travel, and playtime for children ages 3 and up.
Belkin SoundForm Inspire AUD006btBLK
Why we recommend this ▼
The 85dB volume cap and 35-hour battery life make these a standout for protecting young ears during extended use. The foldable, lightweight 270g design with a flip-up boom mic adds practical durability for travel and online learning. These are best for parents seeking a safe, wireless headset for children under 12 who need reliable audio for schoolwork and streaming.
Soundcore H30i
Why we recommend this ▼
The Soundcore H30i offers 70-hour battery life with a 5-minute fast charge for 4 more hours, plus 40mm drivers and BT 5.3 in a lightweight 183g on-ear design. Its budget-friendly price and app-based EQ customization make it a practical choice for casual listening at home or work. Best for budget-conscious users who prioritize long battery life over noise isolation, as commute performance scores low (36.8/100).
TUINYO TP 19
Why we recommend this ▼
The 40mm neodymium drivers and active noise cancellation deliver a focused, bass-forward sound, while the 40-hour battery life with fast charging keeps them running through extended use. Memory-protein ear cushions and a lightweight 259g foldable design provide lasting comfort and portability, with a protective case included to reduce wear. These headphones are best for budget-conscious commuters and travelers who prioritize long battery life and all-day comfort over call quality.
Best Headphones under £80 for best value
Great Alternatives
These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs
Audio-Technica ATH-S300BTBK
Why we recommend this ▼
With a 90-hour battery life and a quick 3-minute charge restoring 2.5 hours of playback, its digital hybrid ANC and 40mm dynamic drivers deliver clear, full-spectrum sound without frequent recharging. The foldable, lightweight design and plush earpads prioritize portability and comfort for extended wear, while multipoint Bluetooth 5.1 smoothly switches between devices. Ideal for budget-minded commuters and office workers who need ANC and marathon playback, though call quality is its weakest link.
Marshall Major 1005773
Why we recommend this ▼
Custom-tuned 40mm dynamic drivers deliver the signature Marshall sound with roaring bass and smooth mids, backed by an 80-hour battery life that gains 15 hours of playback from a quick 10-minute charge. The improved ergonomic design features softer ear cushions and a new fold clip for a more compact, durable build, plus wireless charging for added convenience. These on-ear headphones are best for all-day listeners who prioritize marathon battery life and iconic rock-inspired design over call quality.
Y8+
Why we recommend this ▼
The 100-hour battery life and hybrid ANC powered by four microphones make the 1Mii Y8+ a standout for extended travel, while LDAC and 40mm drivers deliver Hi-Res Audio with deep bass. Its lightweight 246g foldable design and Bluetooth 6.0 with AI translation tools add practical versatility beyond typical budget headphones. These are best for frequent travelers and commuters who prioritize marathon battery life and functional noise cancellation over studio-grade accuracy.
QCY H3
Why we recommend this ▼
A 60-hour battery and 43 dB adaptive ANC with bimodal ear-canal detection tailor noise cancellation via 40mm dynamic drivers and Bluetooth 5.4. A foldable 260g chassis, memory foam earpads, and multipoint connectivity add everyday flexibility and comfort. These are best for budget-conscious gamers and commuters who need all-day active noise cancellation without frequent charging.
EarFun Wave Pro HP200
Why we recommend this ▼
With an 80-hour battery life, 45dB hybrid active noise cancellation, and LDAC high-resolution wireless audio, the 40mm dynamic drivers deliver detailed, high-bitrate sound. The lightweight 266g foldable design, plush memory foam earpads, and 10-minute quick charge for 10 hours of playback add all-day comfort and convenience. This headset is ideal for Android users and frequent travelers who need marathon battery life, effective ANC, and hi-res codec support in a portable package.
JLab JBuds Lux ANC HBJLUXANCRGPH62
Why we recommend this ▼
With a 70-hour battery life and Smart ANC blocking up to 25 dB of noise, the 40mm dynamic drivers deliver extended, uninterrupted listening. Cloud foam earcups, foldable hinges, and app-based EQ adjustments emphasize comfort and customization at an entry-level price. They suit budget-focused commuters and casual gamers needing spatial audio, multipoint Bluetooth, and all-day wear without frequent charging.
Skullcandy Icon ANC
Why we recommend this ▼
Active noise canceling, 60‑hour battery life with a 10‑minute rapid charge for four hours of playback, and IPX4 sweat resistance provide dependable, all‑day performance. The adjustable Stay‑Aware mode and 227‑gram foldable design with cushy earcups add everyday convenience. It’s best for budget‑conscious commuters and gym‑goers who prioritize endurance and durability over call quality.
FIO MOTUS FM20-purple
Why we recommend this ▼
Exceptional 130-hour battery life in standard mode (75 hours with ANC) and a 10-minute quick charge providing 12 hours of playback set these apart, supported by 40mm Hi-Res drivers and hybrid ANC. Personalized spatial audio and ultra-soft protein leather earcups with automatic angle adjustment provide immersive sound and all-day comfort. Best for home office workers and movie buffs who value marathon battery life and plush comfort for long sessions over portability.
SoundPEATS Cove Pro
Why we recommend this ▼
A 95-hour total battery life and 56dB adaptive ANC powered by a 7-mic hybrid system make these headphones a standout for endurance and noise isolation. The 250g foldable design with memory foam cushions and IPX4 water resistance prioritizes all-day comfort and portability for travel. These are best for frequent flyers and commuters who need marathon battery life and strong noise cancellation over critical call quality.
ILOCKZONE ILZ-OH-LC
Why we recommend this ▼
With 100-hour battery life and hybrid ANC that cancels up to 95% of ambient noise, its 40mm drivers and Bluetooth 5.4 deliver dependable wireless audio. A foldable, memory foam-padded build and multipoint connection make it a practical travel companion that switches easily between two devices. It’s ideal for budget-minded commuters and travelers who need marathon battery life and effective noise canceling, though call quality is only adequate.
Turtle Beach Stealth TBS-3103-05
Why we recommend this ▼
A 40-hour battery life and lightweight 231g build with a floating headband make this headset a standout for marathon gaming sessions. QuickSwitch technology allows seamless toggling between low-latency 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth 5.2, while the Swarm II app provides a 10-band EQ for precise audio tuning. This headset is best for multi-platform gamers who need all-day comfort and the flexibility to take calls without interrupting gameplay.
Havit Space S1 H670BT
Why we recommend this ▼
The Soundguys Breakthrough Award-winning audio uses 40mm drivers and LHDC Hi-Res codec, backed by hybrid ANC with -45dB noise reduction and a 100-hour battery life in a lightweight 280g frame with durable metal hinges. A 360° spatial audio engine and multipoint dual-device connection pair with tactile metal lever controls for added convenience. Best for commuters and gamers who need prolonged wireless endurance, adaptive noise cancellation, and an immersive soundstage.
Skullcandy Hesh S6HHW-N740
Why we recommend this ▼
Tile tracking makes it stand out, backed by 40mm drivers, active noise cancellation, and 22-hour battery life. A 10-minute charge delivers 3 hours of use, and the collapsible 228g design ensures easy portability. These are best for budget-conscious commuters and students who need reliable ANC and the security of never misplacing their headphones.
FXWONTY FX-ANC043 Black
Why we recommend this ▼
With up to 42dB hybrid ANC, dual 40mm drivers for Hi-Res Audio, and a 70-hour battery that gains 10 hours from a 10-minute charge, this headset stands out for endurance. Lightweight at 236g and foldable, it features memory foam earcups and a zero-pressure headband for all-day comfort. It’s ideal for travelers and office workers needing long-haul noise isolation and seamless multipoint device switching.
Edifier W80
Why we recommend this ▼
The 40mm titanium-coated dynamic driver with LDAC support delivers Hi-Res audio, while hybrid ANC reduces noise up to -49dB, all backed by a substantial 65-hour battery life. The foldable design uses memory foam pads and a silent hinge for all-day comfort without vibration, and a 15-minute fast charge yields 10 extra hours of use. These headphones suit commuters and remote workers who need marathon battery life and effective noise cancellation for focused, uninterrupted listening.
Best Headphones under £200 for best value
Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus
Great Alternatives
These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs
bmani H1
Why we recommend this ▼
With an ultra-fast ANC chip reducing noise by up to 45dB in 2ms and a 120-hour battery life, these headphones deliver uninterrupted listening for days on a single charge. 360° spatial audio with real-time head tracking adds theater-like immersion, complemented by a 6-mic AI array that suppresses ambient sound during calls. They’re best for frequent travelers and budget gamers who prioritize endurance and spatial sound over call clarity.
Beyerdynamic Aventho 1001609
Why we recommend this ▼
With up to 60 hours of battery life, Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Adaptive and LL, and 45mm dynamic drivers, it delivers high-resolution wireless audio in a lightweight 181-gram foldable frame. Its Red Dot Award-winning design pairs premium aluminum and textile materials with multipoint and Google Fast Pair for seamless daily use. Best for mobile gamers and frequent travelers who prioritize iconic on-ear style, ANC, and all-day endurance over call clarity.
Nothing Headphone (a) B186
Why we recommend this ▼
Equipped with 40mm drivers, LDAC Hi-Res certification, and adaptive noise cancellation reaching 40dB, these over-ears deliver up to 135 hours of listening (ANC off) and a plush memory foam fit. Unique productivity features like a remote camera shutter and tactile roller-and-paddle controls, plus a dedicated low-lag mode for gaming, set them apart. They suit budget-conscious gamers and marathon listeners who need extreme battery life and everyday convenience rather than critical studio sound.
Soundcore Space One Pro
Why we recommend this ▼
The 4-stage adaptive ANC and 60-hour battery life with an 8-hour quick charge from just 5 minutes define its endurance and noise-blocking capability. Its FlexiCurve structure folds down to half the size for exceptional portability, while the LDAC support and customizable EQ deliver Hi-Res audio through 40mm triple-composite drivers. These headphones are best for frequent travelers and hybrid workers who need all-day comfort, seamless multipoint switching, and adaptive noise cancellation that adjusts to airports and open offices.
Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 S6CAW-R740
Why we recommend this ▼
Its adjustable sensory bass, controlled by a physical wheel, delivers a haptic, bone-rattling low-end that no other headphone in its class replicates. The 50-hour battery life and Skull-iQ platform provide long-term comfort and future-proof features like custom ANC levels and a personal hearing profile. These headphones are best for bass enthusiasts and casual listeners who prioritize a fun, physically impactful sound signature over studio accuracy.
Soundcore Space One A3035Z11
Why we recommend this ▼
The 40mm custom dynamic drivers with LDAC support deliver Hi-Res wireless audio, while adaptive noise canceling and a 40-hour battery life anchor its long-haul utility. Its 263g foldable design and 5-minute quick charge for 4 hours of playback emphasize portability and convenience at an aggressive price point. This headphone is best for budget-conscious commuters who prioritize all-day ANC performance and battery endurance over call clarity.
JLab JBuds Lux ANC HBJLUXANCRMVE62
Why we recommend this ▼
With a 70-hour battery life and a quick charge that yields 4 hours of playback from just 10 minutes, these headphones prioritize endurance over premium codecs. The Smart ANC adapts to your environment and pairs with plush Cloud Foam cushions for all-day comfort, all customizable via a dedicated app. This is best for budget-conscious commuters and students who need reliable, long-lasting wireless audio and effective noise reduction for daily use.
Baseus Bowie MH1
Why we recommend this ▼
An 80-hour battery life (55 hours with ANC) and -48 dB adaptive hybrid noise cancellation combine with LDAC Hi-Res audio from 36mm dynamic drivers to set these apart. SoundFit hearing personalization and a 5-mic AI voice system add tailored listening and sharp call clarity. These are best for frequent travelers and remote workers who need all-day endurance, strong noise blockage, and dependable voice pickup for long meetings or commutes.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
Why we recommend this ▼
The 45mm dynamic drivers deliver a 15Hz-28kHz frequency range, making these closed-back monitors a reliable tool with a 63.6/100 studio score. This limited-edition ENSO variant stands out with custom sumi ink brushstroke engravings on the rings and headband, paired with a chance to win an exclusive furoshiki cloth accessories kit. Best for studio monitoring beginners who value functional audio performance and a collectible, art-driven unboxing experience.
Turtle Beach Stealth 700 TBS-2101-25
Audio-Technica ATH-R50X
Why we recommend this ▼
Fully open-back 45mm drivers produce a wide, realistic soundstage with extended bass and accurate midrange, all in a 207g lightweight design for lasting comfort. Its durable construction includes two detachable cables with twist-lock connectors and a 6.3mm adapter, ideal for critical listening. Best suited for studio engineers mixing or mastering stereo and immersive formats.
Turtle Beach Atlas Air TBS-5101-05
Why we recommend this ▼
An open-back design paired with a world-first floating earcup and 40mm drivers delivering 24-bit/96kHz Hi-Res audio, plus a 50-hour battery life, sets this headset apart for immersive PC gaming. Its 301g weight and glasses-friendly memory foam cushions make it comfortable for long sessions, while low-latency wireless with Bluetooth 5.2 multipoint offers flexible connectivity. Best suited for competitive and single-player PC gamers who prioritize natural soundstage and all-day wear over noise isolation.
Shokz OpenRun SHOKZ S820
Why we recommend this ▼
Dual bone conduction and air conduction drivers deliver clear highs and deep bass with 12-hour battery life, while the 30-gram unibody frame stays secure during intense workouts. Open-ear awareness and leak-free listening let you stay attuned to your environment, and dual wind-resistant mics with AI noise reduction filter 96.5% of background noise for crystal-clear calls. These are best for outdoor runners and cyclists who prioritize safety and long-lasting audio motivation without isolating from their surroundings.
Mackie MC Series MC-60BT
Why we recommend this ▼
The Mackie MC-60BT stands out with its MIS wide-band active noise cancellation, 24-bit aptX HD codec support, and 35-hour battery life. The included wireless charging pad and protective hard case add practical value, while IPX4 water resistance and a foldable 300g design ensure portable durability. This headphone is best for studio monitoring and music enthusiasts prioritizing ANC and high-fidelity 24-bit audio, but its weak call score of 56.5 makes it less suitable for frequent hands-free use.
Shure SRH440A
Why we recommend this ▼
The 40mm neodymium dynamic drivers deliver a transparent, natural sound signature with a precise 10Hz-22kHz frequency response for accurate, uncolored monitoring. Its lightweight 255g build, collapsible design, and replaceable ear pads offer lasting comfort and easy portability for mobile recording. These headphones are best for home recording artists and podcasters who need durable, closed-back isolation for critical editing and mixing sessions.