Table of Contents
*This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
If you’re interested in learning about the best headphones under 200 dollars, this article is for you. The headphones on this list suit both the everyday audiophile and the professional. As an audiophile, sound quality is a big deal. Most of the headphones on this list illustrate sound beautifully with any genre, but it really depends.
For example, the Grado SR80i’s, are best suited for acoustic genres like jazz and less suited for genres that deliver heavy bass. Bose QuietComfort can be a great choice for the everyday connoisseur.
These headphones deliver beautiful, crisp sound—from the bass to the treble. The level of noise canceling technology is something you won’t find anywhere else. Without further ado, let’s dive into our list of the best headphones under 200 .
Comparison Table
Product |
Image |
Price |
---|---|---|
[amazon link=”B00PK2LJ4E” title=”Beyerdynamic Custom Pro One Headphones ” /] |
[amazon fields=”B00PK2LJ4E” value=”thumb” image_align=”center”] |
[amazon fields=”B00PK2LJ4E” value=”button”] |
[amazon link=”B004MNW11W” title=”SONY MDRV6 Headphones ” /] |
[amazon fields=”B00001WRSJ” value=”thumb” image_align=”center”] |
[amazon fields=”B00001WRSJ” value=”button”] |
[amazon link=”B06WRMZZ45″ title=”Sennheiser HD 598 Headphones ” /] |
[amazon fields=”B06WRMZZ45” value=”thumb” image_align=”center”] |
[amazon fields=”B06WRMZZ45” value=”button”] |
[amazon link=”B01C6B3W9G” title=”Audio-Technica ATH-SR5BT ” /] |
[amazon fields=”B01C6B3W9G” value=”thumb” image_align=”center”] |
[amazon fields=”B01C6B3W9G” value=”button”] |
[amazon link=”B07JDX619K” title=”Logitech UE6000 ” /] |
[amazon fields=”B07JDX619K” value=”thumb” image_align=”center”] |
[amazon fields=”B07JDX619K” value=”button”] |
[amazon link=”B00L1LXOWS” title=”Grado SR80i Headphones ” /] |
[amazon fields=”B00L1LXOWS” value=”thumb” image_align=”center”] |
[amazon fields=”B00L1LXOWS” value=”button”] |
[amazon link=”B00M1NEUKK” title=”Bose QuietComfort 25 Headphones ” /] |
[amazon fields=”B00M1NEUKK” value=”thumb” image_align=”center”] |
[amazon fields=”B00M1NEUKK” value=”button”] |
[amazon link=”B002DP8IEK” title=”Shure SRH840 Professional Monitoring Headphones ” /] |
[amazon fields=”B002DP8IEK” value=”thumb” image_align=”center”] |
[amazon fields=”B002DP8IEK” value=”button”] |
[amazon link=”B00HVLURL8″ title=”Audio-Technica ATH-M50xWH Professional Studio Monitor Headphones ” /] |
[amazon fields=”B00HVLURL8” value=”thumb” image_align=”center”] |
[amazon fields=”B00HVLURL8” value=”button”] |
[amazon link=”B0006NL5SM” title=”Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO Studio Headphones ” /] |
[amazon fields=”B0006NL5SM” value=”thumb” image_align=”center”] |
[amazon fields=”B0006NL5SM” value=”button”] |
Product FAQs
Image from PX Here
Which is Better: Bluetooth Or Wired Headphones?
It is apparent in today’s world that Bluetooth headphones are progressively leading while their counterparts’ wired headphones are getting passed up by countless shoppers. There is no one-size-fits all when it comes to headphones—it’s all based on user experience and convenience.
The Bluetooth option is super convenient and ideal for commuters, and while wired headphones aren’t convenient for commuting they do have more bandwidth and much better sound quality that outperforms Bluetooth headphones.
If you can afford it, having both alternatives will be the best option; that is, the Bluetooth for commuting conveniently and the wired headphones for optimum sound quality when listening to music at home or bingeing on Netflix.
What Determines Sound Quality?
Sound quality is a key feature in headphones which depends on a wide range of things. For example, having an airtight closed-back headphones offers great bass sound, while having an open-back headphones always delivers rich bass sounds without needing an airtight seal.
Does Having A Larger Diver Equals Better Sound?
It is a very common misunderstanding that having a large driver delivers better sound quality. Nevertheless, while having large drivers does actually deliver better bass, it does not give an output of higher frequency or better sound quality. So don’t base your choice of a headphone solely on the size of its drivers.
Who Should Buy These Headphones?
Anyone who’s interested in advancing to headphones with more sound quality than their current headphones at affordable costs should consider these choices. The headphones on this list are all more like valedictorians in their class of headphones. So depending on your needs, any of these options are an excellent starting point for anyone who wants to experience and explore the best of the audio world.
How We Reviewed
Image by micaelabustamantefg from Pixabay
While we have unswervingly reviewed an enormous list of headphone products before arriving here, we didn’t get around to all of them. But to counter any unavoidable bias, we did quite a bit of research by scanning through online forums, analyzing other reviews, as well as taking polls where necessary. We’ve collated everything together in uniform by presenting each product with its Features, Pros and Cons, Prices, Where to Buy, and lastly Warranties.
This list isn’t just what we like, it’s a precise illustration of our experiences put together into one rich article. This is a very packed review of headphones, with numerous models that are just really, really good. Nonetheless, in the end this is a list is the outcome of all our hard work after considering the varied needs of countless listeners.
Who We Reviewed
- Beyerdynamic Custom Pro One Headphones
- SONY MDRV6 Headphones
- Sennheiser HD 598 Headphones
- Audio-Technica ATH-SR5BT
- Logitech UE6000
- Grado SR80i Headphones
- Bose QuietComfort 25 Headphones
- Shure SRH840 Professional Monitoring Headphones
- Audio-Technica ATH-M50xWH Professional Studio Monitor Headphones
- Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO Studio Headphones
[amazon link=”B00PK2LJ4E” title=”Beyerdynamic Custom Pro One Headphones ” /]
[amazon box=”B00PK2LJ4E”]
The first noteworthy pair of headphones on this list is studio quality, user-customizable and comfortable. These closed-back headphones have a unique feature that will satisfy the musician in you.
They feature a variable bass reflex system. With the slide of a button, users can choose between heavy, vibrant, linear, or light bass. All aforementioned positions work beautifully with both middle and high ranges. While other brands have created headphones with a built-in bass reflex system, these headphones allow the listener to manually modify the bass, which has never been done before.
Pros
- Constructed with durable metal material and soft leatherette cushion for comfort
- Bass response is adjustable via a button on headphones
- Nominal sound pressure level of 96 dB
- The soundstage (or isolation) is lovely
- Impedance of 16 ohms make these perfect for a portable device (smartphone) usage
- Customizable for professional, studio, or gaming use
- Detachable cable included
- Beyerdynamic offers a 2-year warranty
Cons
- Original ear pads may be uncomfortable for some, but this can be easily fixed, as they are interchangeable
Where to Buy
Amazon
Warranty
2 years warranty
[amazon link=”B004MNW11W” title=”SONY MDRV6 Headphones ” /]
[amazon box=”B00001WRSJ”]
These headphones provide a retro feel and studio sound. The SONY MDRV6 headphones are a well-loved historical artifact from the 1980s and have lived to see the 21st century (31 years later). When these headphones were first introduced, they were popular amongst DJs and professional music producers. The digital audio world was still new.
Individuals interested in music production will really enjoy this product, but this is for anyone who likes good quality audio. The sound delivery is natural, balanced, and fun.
Pros
- Neodymium magnet and copper-clad aluminum voice coil for accurate 5 Hz – 30 kHz frequency reproduction
- Impedance of 63 ohms
- Sound delivery is natural, clear, and detailed
- Provides great soundstage and isolation
- Closed back headphone constructed using black anodized aluminum (super cool style and good quality)
- Flexibility makes them more portable
- SONY offers a 90-day warranty
Cons
- Ear cushions could be more comfortable
- Non-detachable coiled cable may be slightly inconvenient
- These were made with the music professional in mind, so the most comfortable place to use them is at home
Where to Buy
Amazon
Warranty
90-day warranty
[amazon link=”B06WRMZZ45″ title=”Sennheiser HD 598 Headphones ” /]
[amazon box=”B06WRMZZ45″]
These are one of the best open-backed headphones you can find. These airy headphones feature audio technology that provides the listener with an almost perfect delivery of bass, mids, and treble. The bass is velvety and the highs are high. The HD 598 headphones give us the full package.
Pros
- Diaphragm geometry helps reduce audio distortion and increase transparency
- Open and airy soundstage
- Listeners fully experience the bass, mids, and treble
- Surround reflectors further disperse sound, increasing soundstage
- Impedance of 50 ohms
- Comfortable, lightweight ear pads
- Detachable 3M cable
- Sennheiser has a 2-year warranty
Cons
- The beautiful design won’t suit everyone’s style
Where to Buy
Amazon
Warranty
2 years limited warranty
[amazon link=”B01C6B3W9G” title=”Audio-Technica ATH-SR5BT ” /]
[amazon box=”B01C6B3W9G”]
Audio-Technica has always been known for designing professional audio equipment. Their ATH-SR5BT headphones are phenomenal and provide the listener with an immersive experience.
A key feature users may enjoy is the option to connect via Bluetooth or wire. Bluetooth is convenient because users won’t have to untangle wires or deal with the discomfort of a wire getting in their way. The Bluetooth is capable of remembering up to eight devices. This feature saves a lot of time trying to connect them later on. These headphones also have a whopping 38-hour battery life, which reduces charging to once or twice a week (depending on usage and energy consumption).
Pros
- Battery provides 38 hours of continuous use when fully charged
- Mic and volume control built into ear cups
- Frequency response of 5-40,000 Hz
- High sensitivity at -40 dB
- Impedance of 45 ohms
- 45mm drivers yield studio sound quality
- Have the option to use these via Bluetooth or wire
- Class 2 Bluetooth remembers up to 8 devices
- 2-year limited warranty
Cons
- Lacks delivery of warm tones
Where to Buy
Amazon
Warranty
2 years limited warranty
[amazon link=”B07JDX619K” title=”Logitech UE6000 ” /]
[amazon box=”B07JDX619K”]
If one had to choose between Beats by Dr.Dre and these headphones, Logitech wins. These Logitech’s deliver amazing sound quality for this price point. They have a frequency response of up to 20 kHz and an impedance of 50 ohms. The bass sounds are rich and loud. This is definitely a great investment.
Pros
- Impressive soundstage
- Active noise cancelation is up to par (activated by button)
- 40mm laser-tuned drivers
- Plush memory ear cups and adjustable headband are comfortable
- Foldable headphones with tangle free wire
- Comes with headphone splitter so you can listen with two different headphones simultaneously
- Headphone case included
- 2- year limited warranty
Cons
- While these provide a lot of bass, they are not as clear as Audio Technica headphones, for example
Where to Buy
Amazon
Warranty
2 years limited warranty
[amazon link=”B00L1LXOWS” title=”Grado SR80i Headphones ” /]
[amazon box=”B00L1LXOWS”]
The Grado SR80i are probably one of the most underrated headphones, ever. These are open-back, retro-style headphones. They are perfect for jazz, acoustic, and unplugged music. While they do have noticeable sound leakage, they still provide an immersive sound experience in the right context (i.e. home). These are an investment worth making for an audiophile who needs to hear the detail and warmth in their music.
Pros
- Simple and lightweight build
- Soft, vinyl headband
- Hi-Fi quality sound
- Perfect soundstage provides an open, airy feel
- The design of these headphones compliment jazz, acoustic, and vocal music
- Impedance of 32 ohms
Cons
- These headphones have minimal sound leak, but are still not great for portable use
- Ear pads may be uncomfortable (but can be easily replaced)
- Durability can be improved
Where to Buy
Amazon
Warranty
2 years limited warranty
[amazon link=”B00M1NEUKK” title=”Bose QuietComfort 25 Headphones ” /]
[amazon box=”B00M1NEUKK”]
Have you had to withstand a noisy commute to work or an uncomfortable flight? For buyers who need professional quality noise cancelation, these are a must-buy. These Bose headphones block out noise even without activating the noise cancelation feature.
It all started on a flight from USA to Switzerland when Dr. Bose was having trouble hearing his music over the airplane engines. The mathematical calculations that helped bring this noise technology into fruition took place over the course of ten years.
Dr. Amar Bose, MIT professor, and sound engineer invented the first noise-canceling headphones in 1989. In 1995, this company’s acoustic noise cancelation headset series II won the title for “product of the year.” Bose’s products have continued to evolve. These updated headphones are nothing short of exceptional.
Pros
- Best noise cancelation technology ever
- Powerful sound delivery: bass, midrange and treble are all present
- 40mm drivers
- Slim, lightweight build for comfort
- Bose offers a 1-year limited warranty
Cons
- Non-Bluetooth may be inconvenient to some
Where to Buy
Amazon
Warranty
1 year limited warranty
[amazon link=”B002DP8IEK” title=”Shure SRH840 Professional Monitoring Headphones ” /]
[amazon box=”B002DP8IEK”]
Shure is known for their first-class, in-ear headphones. However, they did an excellent job with these closed-back, over-the-ear style headphones. These headphones were developed for studio recording and a pleasant listening experience. These SRH840 deliver crisp and clear sound.
Pros
- Professional studio recording and sound reproduction
- Booming bass, clear mids, and major highs
- 40mm neodymium drivers
- 3m detachable coiled cable
- Collapsible design makes them more portable
- Ergonomic and durable construction
- Padded, moisture wicking headband for comfort
- Headphone case and an extra pair of ear cup pads included
- Shure offers a 1-year warranty
Cons
- Not as lightweight as they could be
- Must be gentle with built-in headphone wires
Where to Buy
Amazon
Warranty
1 year limited warranty
[amazon link=”B00HVLURL8″ title=”Audio-Technica ATH-M50xWH Professional Studio Monitor Headphones ” /]
[amazon box=”B00HVLURL8″]
These studio headphones are a favorite amongst professionals in the music industry. The makers of these headphones did a beautiful job designing both the aesthetic and technological parts. Functionally, these headphones do a great job of delivering crisp and clear sound.
Pros
- The sound delivery is detailed and authentic—bass, treble, and mids included
- Studio engineers worship these headphones (perfect for mixing and monitoring)
- 15-28,000 Hz frequency response
- Impedance of 30 ohms
- 45mm drivers
- Durable, rugged, and comfortable construction
- Detachable cable
- Available in a variety of awesome colors – red, blue, white, gunmetal, and black
- These have 1 year limited warranty
Cons
- Only available in online marketplaces such as Amazon
- Battery life is not up to par
Where to Buy
Amazon
Warranty
1 year limited warranty
[amazon link=”B0006NL5SM” title=”Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO Studio Headphones ” /]
[amazon box=”B0006NL5SM”]
The DT 770 have been designed specifically for professional studio use. Many considered these headphones a studio essential. Due to the bass reflex system, it’s important that listeners find a balance in volume. If the volume is too high, the sound may be piercing. On the other hand, the music can sound very distant if the volume is too low.
These deliver the analytical sound that professionals need to mix and master. The construction, durability, and amazing sound are what make these headphones special.
Pros
- Professional quality for recording, mixing and monitoring
- Soundstage is wide and immersive
- Sound delivery is detailed
- Frequency response of 5-35,000 Hz
- Sound pressure -96dB
- The airtight seal of the earpods means better noise cancelation
- 45mm dynamic drivers
- Impedance of 32, 80 or 250 ohms (users can choose based on listening needs)
- Extremely durable and sturdy build
- Drawstring carrying bag included
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- These are only available in online marketplaces like Amazon
- Poor delivery of warmth in sound
Where to Buy
Amazon
Warranty
2 year limited warranty
The Verdict
The perfect headphones (or at least close to perfect) are really a personal preference. At the same time, there are tested and proven headphones that deliver amazing sound quality due to the technology use to create them. There are also headphones to suit everyone’s specific needs. This still doesn’t mean my favorite headphone will be your favorite headphone. How well one person perceives bass versus how much another person can hear high frequencies is a very individual thing.
Many people, especially over a certain age, have difficulty perceiving higher frequencies. That being said, two different people can either hate or love the same headphone. Sound engineers are still trying to figure out what makes good sound, sound so good. They put together charts about frequencies and harmonic distortion and still, there aren’t any exact answers.
When looking for the perfect headphone, one must prioritize their needs. Are you a professional who needs studio quality sound and the ability to use them for recording or mixing? Are you a student who needs headphones that deliver balanced sound and noise cancelation? Maybe you’re a gamer who wants a more engaging experience. You could also be one of many looking for a pair of headphones that is going to last you more than three months at a time. There is something for everyone.