Best Headphones under £80 for music

Best Pick

Sony ZX-Series MDRZX110NC

54.7 Music Score
on-earWiredANC30mm80h
Why we recommend this

Effective noise cancellation powered by an 80-hour battery life makes these wired headphones a standout for uninterrupted listening over extended periods. The 30mm neodymium drivers and supra-aural design deliver clear audio, while the lightweight 150g build with foam ear cushions provides lasting comfort. These are best for commuters and office workers who need affordable, long-lasting ANC to block out constant background noise without frequent battery changes.

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Great Alternatives

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Sony MDR7506

51.4 Music Score
Over-EarWired40mm
Why we recommend this ▼

The 40mm dynamic drivers provide a flat 10Hz–20kHz frequency response with 106dB sensitivity and 63Ω impedance for accurate studio monitoring. Its folding design, gold-plated connectors, and OFC cord offer reliable signal integrity and compact portability with the included soft case. This headphone is best for aspiring podcasters and live broadcast engineers needing durable, affordable closed-back monitoring, though its low work score makes it ill-suited for office use.

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Sony MDR-ZX110

42.9 Music Score
over-earWired30mm
Why we recommend this ▼

The 30mm neodymium drivers and Acoustic Bass Booster technology emphasize bass-heavy sound within a 12Hz-22kHz frequency range. Weighing just 119g with a foldable design and 3.9-foot tangle-free cord, it prioritizes grab-and-go portability at a budget price. These headphones are best for casual listeners who want a lightweight, wired, on-ear option for bass-driven music and simple daily use, not for studio monitoring or calls.

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No Headphones under £200 yet. See our top picks under £400

Best Headphones under £400 for music

Best Pick

Sony WH-1000XM6

89.7 Music Score
over-earWirelessANC30mm30h
Why we recommend this

The QN3 HD noise cancellation processor is 7x faster than the QN1, optimizing 12 microphones in real time for superior noise cancellation and call clarity. Co-created with mastering audio engineers, the lightweight carbon fiber driver delivers high-fidelity sound with rich vocals and balanced instruments. Best for commuters and travelers who want the best noise cancellation and 30-hour battery life in a foldable, compact design.

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Great Alternatives

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Sony MDRMV1

59 Music Score
on-earWired40mm
Why we recommend this ▼

The 40mm dynamic drivers deliver a 5Hz-80kHz frequency response, creating an open-back soundstage with precise 360-degree object positioning for immersive mixing. The 226g aluminum alloy housing and detachable machined connectors provide durable comfort for long studio sessions. Best for audio engineers and producers needing accurate spatial monitoring during stereo mastering.

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No Headphones under £800 yet. See our top picks under £400

No Headphones found in this category. See our top picks under £400