The hefty price tag doesn't always mean that the product you are getting is certainly going to be good. Same is the case for cheap products, and if you are buying one with a reasonable tag, it doesn't mean that it's going to be inadequate or crappy. Well if you are looking for best headphones under 20 just to meet your daily needs of listening to music, then I have got you covered. I'm going to mention some excellent earbuds and headsets in the price range, based on the overall user ratings, performances, design, and features they offer.
- BEST OVERALL: Koss UR-20 Headphone
- BEST CHOICE: Behringer HPS3000 Headphone
- BEST VALUE: KZ ZST Headphone
- Vogek On-Ear Affordable Headphones
- AUKEY EP-B40 Wireless Headphone
- Sennheiser CX300 Inexpensive Headphone
- Monoprice 8323 Premium Headphone
- MEE Audio M6 Memory
- Mpow Bluetooth Headphones
Top 3 Overall Best Headphones Under $20
| BEST OVERALL 🏆 | PREMIUM CHOICE 💎 | BEST VALUE 💲 | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
|
| NAME | Koss UR-20 Headphone | Behringer HPS3000 Headphone | KZ ZST Headphone |
| SPECIAL | Amazon's Choice ✅ | High-Definition ✅ | Amazon's Choice ✅ |
| IMPEDANCE | 32 Ohm | 32 Ohm | 18 Ohm |
| CONNECTIVITY | WIRED | WIRED | WIRED |
| Frequency R | 30hz–20khz | 20Hz-20kHz | 20Hz-20kHz |
| RATINGS | 4.0/5 | 3.9/5 | 4.2/5 |
Note: Scroll/Swipe Horizontally To View All Sections Of Table 
To keep it simple for you I have divided the headset sections into three consisting of design, performance, and specifications of the headphones.
Koss UR-20 Headphone
Ratings: 4.0/5 | Type: Wired
Design
The over-ear closed-back headset comes with wired connectivity. It's a bit bulky but relatively lightweight along with large well-padded earcups which fit comfortably in most cases. The build quality is impressive in the price range; however, its mostly composed of plastic. Moreover, the ear cups are dense, and headband design is flexible. The headset is stable for moderate activities, and the cable is non-detachable. In the box along with Koss UR-20 headset, you will get 1/8" to 1/4" adapter.
Performance
The sound quality is excellent in the provided budget. The headset has extended and consistent base with mediocre mid and treble range. Moreover, the frequency response consistency and imaging of headphone are excellent.
Furthermore, it offers above average soundstage and total harmonic distortion. As the headset doesn't provide noise-cancelling, but its design cancels out sufficient ambient noises and offers relatively good noise isolation along with minimal noise leakage. It's the best choice for you in the price range.
Specifications
| Weight: | 1 lbs |
| Impedence: | 32 Ohm |
| Connectivity | Wired Cable (3.5mm plug) |
| Frequency Response: | 30hz–20khz |
| Sound Pressure Level (SPL): | 97 dB |
| Product Dimensions: | 12.1 x 22.4 x 30.3 cm |
Behringer HPS3000 Headphone
Ratings: 3.9/5 | Type: Wired
Amazon's Choice 
Design
The headset introduced by German company comes with wired connectivity and contains high-efficiency cobalt capsules drivers for excellent delivery. The headband and earcups are well padded and comfortable. The breathability is impressive, and the same is the case with sound leakage due to its design. It doesn't push too hard on your ears, which makes them suitable for extended sessions. The oval shape covers your ear perfectly, and in the box, you will get 1/8" connector and 1/4" adapter along with the headset.
Performance
The sound quality of the headset is impressive in the given price range and is mostly studio focused, which provides extra.
Moreover, the frequency range is ultra wide dynamic along with accurate soundstage. It also performs terrific in terms of bass as its consistent, as well as the mids, are well-balanced. The treble of headphone is sweet along with mediocre total harmonic distortion and imaging. Overall the headset is a really good choice for you to try out with a cheap price tag.
Specifications
| Weight: | 0.64 lbs |
| Impedence: | 32 Ohm |
| Connectivity | 6' Straight Cord |
| Frequency Response: | 20Hz-20kHz |
| Product Dimensions: | 8.07 x 6.89 x 3.7 in |
KZ ZST Headphone
Ratings: 4.2/5 | Type: Wired
Amazon's Choice
Design
The KZ is a Chinese company, and it's offering an excellent piece at a low price. The ZST consists of two quite large driver housing pieces of hard plastic. The earphone is lightweight and goes behind your ear. The cable has short 45-degree angle 2-pin connector which fits into the housing of ZST. Its fully plastic and bigger in size and you can wear them without any discomfort and if you face any issue in sizing it comes with variant ear tips. The most attractive thing about ZST is its colors. It comes in four different options, which include Green, Blue, Black, and multicolor. In the box along with the in-ear monitors, you will get detachable wires, three pairs of silicone ear tips and a user guide.
Performance
The ZST has a slightly V-shaped sound signature with shiny audio quality. The bass is somewhat boosted and consistency along with detailed and clear treble. The high-end extension makes the sound lively and enjoyable. It offers a well-balanced midrange. Furthermore, the frequency response consistency and total harmonic distortion are mediocre. The soundstage is not spacious but is above average, considering the price range. It also comes with a microphone. Overall its a best choice in the budget to consider if you are not looking for over-ear headsets.
Specifications
| Driver: | 10mm dynamic |
| Weight: | 0.04 lbs |
| Impedence: | 18 Ohm |
| Sensitivity: | 106dB/mW |
| Length: | 120cm±2cm |
| Connectivity | 6' Straight Cord |
| Frequency Response: | 20Hz-20kHz |
| Product Dimensions: | 4.72 x 1.18 x 1.97 in |
Vogek On-Ear Affordable Headphones
Ratings: 4.5/5 | Type: Wired
Amazon's Choice
Design
The on-ear closed-back headset comes with a foldable design which makes them stand out in portability. The cord is not prone to tangling as well as the headband and ear cups are well-padded. The cushioning on the earcups make it suitable for extended sessions and help in avoiding fatigue. It also comes with in-line microphone for hands-free phone calling. The design cancels out ambient noises as it doesn't support noise-cancellation and also minimizes the sound leakage. It comes in two colors, black and white, which allows you to choose what's best for you.
Performance
The sound is clear with consistent bass and well-balanced mids. The headset is best for softer genres, and the frequency response consistency is excellent. In the given price range, it offers mediocre soundstage and total harmonic distortion. Furthermore, the 12-month warranty, which includes money back or free replacement, is impressive.
Specifications
| Driver: | 40mm dynamic |
| Weight: | 0.31 lbs |
| Design: | Foldable |
| Connectivity: | 59 inch Cord |
| Frequency Response: | 20Hz-20kHz |
| Sensitivity: | 101dB |
| Impedance: | 32 0hm |
| Product Dimensions: | 6.3 inch x 5.1 inch x 1.57 inch |
AUKEY EP-B40 Wireless Headphone
Ratings: 3.8/5 | Type: Wireless
Design
The in-ear headphone comes with aptX technology for enhanced wireless audio over Bluetooth 4.1. The design is stable and comfortable, which is offered by the hooks along with both earpieces.
Moreover, it has IPX4-certified water-resistant rating with internal nano-coating to handle sweat and rain. In the box along with Aukey EP-B40 you will get micro-USB cable, three pairs of ear-tips for a better fit, three pairs of ear-hooks for better stability, a carrying pouch to protect it from scratches and water, a user manual, 45-day money back guarantee and 24-month product replacement warranty card.
Performance
The sound quality of the headset is impressive along with consistent bass. The mids and highs are well-balanced and clear usually. Moreover, the frequency response consistency and total harmonic distortion are excellent. The imaging and sound leakage, along with noise isolation is impressive. The battery playtime is around 8 hours with standby of 240 hours and charging time of 1.5 hour. Overall it's one of the best options to consider.
Specifications
| Microphone Sensitivity: | -42dB ±3dB |
| Weight: | 0.03 lbs |
| Connectivity: | Wireless | Range - Up to 10m / 33ft |
| Frequency Response: | 20hz–20khz |
| Product Dimensions: | 25.67 x 0.94 x 1.14 in |
Sennheiser CX300 Inexpensive Headphone
Ratings: 3.7/5 | Type: Wired
Design
The CX300 introduced by a German company is a utilitarian designed earphone which comes with wired connectivity. It comes in different colors with the sturdy build quality. It contains the branding of the company at the backside of both earpieces.
The earphone is comfortable, and if you are having difficulties with the ear tips, you will get variant sizes ranging from Small, Medium and Large which will help in comfortability as well as sound quality by minimizing the interfering factors. It also comes with a two-year global warranty.
Performance
The sound quality is clear and crispy with surprising soundstage given the size. It is light with mediocre noise isolation and sound leakage. The bass is consistent, and the mid-range is well-balanced. Moreover, the frequency response consistency and total harmonic distortion are impressive. Overall it's an excellent option to consider with a reasonable price tag.
Specifications
| Transducer Principle: | Dynamic |
| Weight: | 0.15 lbs |
| Jack plug: | 1/8 (3.5 mm) |
| Sound pressure level (SPL): | 113 dB (1kHz/1Vrms) |
| Frequency Response: | 42-17,000 Hz |
| Cable length: | 3.9 ft. (1.2 m) |
| Impedance | 16 0hm |
| Product Dimensions: | 3.9 x 3.9 x 3.9 inches |
Monoprice 8323 Premium Headphone
Ratings: 3.9/5 | Type: Wired
Amazon's Choice
Design
The Californian based company has produced a cheap and excellent headset. The thick padding of earcups and headband makes it comfortable and suitable for extended sessions as it doesn't push too hard on your ears. The headset doesn't come with a fixed wire; however, the 3.5mm jack at the bottom of the left earpiece allows a standard 3.5mm audio cable to be inserted. In the package, you will get four ft long 3.5mm audio cable with inline microphone/controller, four ft long 3.5mm M/M audio cable, 3.5mm F to 1/4" M adapter plug along with the headset.
Performance
The sound performance of the headset is impressive with powerful sub-bass and low-bass frequencies. The mids are well-balanced along with reduced highs. Moreover, the treble is rolled-off and sweet. Furthermore, the frequency response consistency and total harmonic distortion are mediocre. The breathability and sound leakage of the headset are perfect due to its composition. The imaging is decent, along with deep soundstage. In the price range its one of the best headset you can get.
Specifications
| Driver: | 50mm |
| Weight: | 1.08 lbs |
| Sensitivity: | 100 dB |
| Frequency Response: | 20-20kHz |
| Cable length: | 11.5 ft long 3.5 mm M/M audio cable |
| Impedance | 40 0hm |
| Product Dimensions: | 9.3 x 9.2 x 3.5 in |
MEE Audio M6 Memory
Ratings: 4.2/5 | Type: Wired
Design
The in-ear piece is exceptionally lightweight with impressive comfortability. It comes with different sizes of ear tips allowing you to choose what fits you. The secure over-the-ear fit memory wire enhances the stability and doesn't let it fall out, which also makes it suitable for sports. The design also cuts out significant ambient noises, and it is sweat and water resistant with IPX5 certified ratings. In the package along with the M6, you will get six sets of ear tips, shirt clip, carrying case and one year manufacturer's warranty.
Performance
It produces crispy sound with consistent bass; however, at some stages, the bass level might seem higher than that of similar headphones, although many prefer boosted bass. The mids and highs are well-balanced; at some instance, you might feel that the highs are a bit muddy. Moreover, the frequency response consistency and total harmonic distortion are mediocre. However, the soundstage is below average due to its size. Furthermore, the breathability and sound leakage are impressive. Overall its an excellent deal with the reasonable price tag.
Specifications
| Weight: | 0.1 lbs |
| Sensitivity: | 100 ±3 dB (1 mW at 1 kHz) |
| Frequency Response: | 20-20kHz |
| Maximum Power Input Supported: | 30 mW |
| Impedance | 16 Ohms at 1 kHz |
| Product Dimensions: | 7.7 x 3.8 x 1.1 in |
Mpow Bluetooth Headphones
Ratings: 4.0/5 | Type: Wired
Design
The MPOW's headset is lightweight and comes with the wire as a connectivity option. The cord is tangle-free, and the earcups are wrapped by protein leather to stimulate the human skin texture. The adjustable design of headphone allows you to fit it comfortably according to your head size. It is suitable for adults as well as children. The remote controls allow you to handle calls easily without any obstruction and tangles. It also comes with a 45-day money back and 24-month warranty.
Performance
The sound quality of the headset is mediocre and performs averagely in most cases. The bass is consistent, and the mid-range is well balanced. Moreover, the frequency response consistency and total harmonic distortion are mediocre. It produces sweet treble along with impressive breathability. The sound leakage is a bit of problem if you are conscious about that then you might not be impressed with it due to its design. The music is subtle, clear, and distortion-free in most cases. It's an excellent choice to consider given the comfortability and performance with the cheap price tag. Also you can check out excellent headphones under 30 dollars as well.
Specifications
| Driver: | 40mm Neodymium Driver |
| Weight: | 0.45 lbs |
| Sensitivity: | 113 ¡À 3 db |
| Frequency Response: | 20-20kHz |
| Highest Output Power: | 15mW |
| Impedance: | 32 ¡À15% |
| Highest Distortion: | ¡Ü5% |
| Impedance: | 32 ¡À15% |
| Product Dimensions: | 7.44 x 6.85 x 2.64 in |
Betron YSM1000 Earphone
Ratings: 3.9/5 | Type: Wired
Amazon's Choice
Design
In the price range, the YSM1000 is surprisingly well-built and can be a decent choice for sports since it is portable and stable. The in-line remote is responsive and offers significant control, which includes music/call control, volume control, and track skipping. The in-ear piece has a premium look due to its silver and gold accent combination. It's not bulky, and the ear tips are comfortable according to your size type. You will get different sizes so you can choose what fits you the best — the soft pouch which comes with YSM1000 which protects it against scratches and minor water exposure. The remote is made of metal while the earbuds are relatively dense and offer impressive build quality. The cable is non-detachable and is 3.8 ft long. In the box along with YSM1000, you will get three ear tips, one foam tip, a carrying pouch, a shirt clip and a manual.
Performance
The sound quality is above average with well extended and relatively flat bass. Moreover, the midrange is mediocre with decent balance as well as the treble range is underemphasized and lacks detail in some instances. The frequency response consistency is excellent, and if you can achieve a proper seal using the right tip, the delivery is perfect. Furthermore, the imaging and total harmonic distortion are impressive as well. However, due to the design, the soundstage is below average. The noise isolation is incredible; meanwhile, the sound leakage is minimal. It also offers a microphone which has decent recording and calling qualities.
Specifications
| Weight: | 0.26 lbs |
| Connectivity: | 9ft cable |
| Frequency Response: | 20-20kHz |
| Warranty: | 2-year |
| Product Dimensions: | 3.6 x 3.5 x 3.5 in |
Koss KSC75 Headphone
Ratings: 4.0/5 | Type: Wired
Amazon's Choice
Design
The KSC75 has a technical design with company's branding on both ear poieces. It is lightweight and stable with non-detachable audio cable. It is highly portable and easy to carry but it doesn't offer any controls. In terms of comfort it is above average and the ear-hook design offers more stability. The breathability is impressive and the cable is 4.3 ft long. In the box along with KSC75 you will get a manual and for extra ear tips you've to get another option.
Performance
The open-back on-ear headset offers an average sound quality with an excellent mid range and open soundstage. It performs consistency across multiple humans. The bass is mediocre just like the thump and rumble. Moreover the frequency response consistency and imaging is impressive. However the soundstage and total harmonic distortion are mediocre. It doesn't offer really good noise isolation and sound leakage. Overall it is a good choice to consider in the given budget.
Specifications
| Weight: | 0.08 lbs |
| Connectivity: | Wired (3.5mm plug) |
| Frequency Response: | 15hz–25khz |
| Impedence: | 60 ohms |
| Sound pressure level (SPL): | 101 dB SPL/1mW |
| Product Dimensions: | 6.5 x 2.5 x 6.5 in |
Philips SHE3590 Earphone
Ratings: 4.9/5 | Type: Wired
Design
The newly launched headset comes with comfortable soft caps and ultra small in-ear design. It comes in purplish color, and the breathability is impressive. However, it lacks in minimizing the noise isolation due to its design. It fits perfectly in the ear but is not too stable.
Performance
The small and efficient speakers produce a clear sound. The bass is mediocre and consistent. Moreover, the midrange is well-balanced, but the highs are muddy at intervals. The frequency response consistency and total harmonic distortion are average. However, the soundstage is not impressive.
Specifications
| Driver: | 32 mm |
| Weight: | 0.04 lbs |
| Connectivity: | 1.20m Cord |
| Frequency Response: | 12hz–23.50khz |
| Impedence: | 16 ohms |
| Limited Warranty: | 2 Years |
| Product Dimensions: | 0.7 x 4.8 x 1.4 in |
Panasonic RP-HT161-K Headphone
Ratings: 4.0/5 | Type: Wired
Design
The RP-HT161-K is closed-back and solid headphone which comes in matte black color. The headband and ear cups are well-padded. This cushioning cuts out the ambient noises. Moreover, it's lightweight and comfortable, which is something essential for extended sessions. The breathability and noise leakage is impressive.
Performance
The sound quality is mediocre with well-balanced bass and mid range. The treble is sweet and above average. Moreover, the frequency response consistency and total harmonic distortion are impressive. It offers relatively better soundstage and imaging.
Specifications
| Driver: | Dual 30mm Neodymium Driver |
| Weight: | 0.65 lbs |
| Connectivity: | 6.5-ft. audio cord |
| Frequency Response: | 20hz–20khz |
| Product Dimensions: | 4.1 x 7 x 7.5 in |
1MORE 1M301 Headphone
Ratings: 3.8/5 | Type: Wired
Amazon's Choice
Design
The driver housing has aluminum alloy casing with the angled design, which helps the earpieces sit in perfectly. The cord is nylon-braided which reduces tangling and is rubber till the Y-splitter along with 3.5mm plug. It comes with a range of ear tips allowing you to choose the right fit for you. The breathability and sound leakage of the headset are impressive, along with excellent noise isolation due to its design. In the box, you will get three universal sized tips which include extra small, small and large along with the 1M301.
Performance
The headset offers impressive sound quality and could get loud. The call button allows you to accept and reject calls, and if you press it for long, it will invoke Google Assistant on Android or Siri on IOS. The bass is consistent with the well-balanced midrange. Moreover, it has an effective frequency response consistently and total harmonic distortion. Overall it's an impressive and well-performing headset to consider in the price line.
Specifications
| Sensitivity: | 98 dB |
| Weight: | 0.03 lbs |
| Connectivity: | 1.25 m Cord | (3.5mm Plug) |
| Frequency Response: | 20hz–20khz |
| Impedence: | 32 Ohms |
| Product Dimensions: | 1 x 1 x 1 in |
These are top 6 trending and best headsets under $20 that you can buy now without breaking your bank.
| Model/Review | Preview | Ratings | Connectivity | Prime |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Koss UR-20 Headphone | | 4.0/5 | Wired |  |
| KZ ZST Headphone | | 4.2/5 | Wired | |
| AUKEY EP-B40 Wireless Headphone | | 3.8/5 | Bluetooth | |
| Panasonic RP-HT161-K Headphone | | 4.0/5 | Wired | |
| Vogek OE Headphones | | 4.5/5 | Wired | |
| Behringer HPS3000 Headphone | | 3.9/5 | Wired | |
Note: Scroll/Swipe Horizontally To View All Sections Of Table
Don't want to go for any of the over-ear or in-ear options mentioned in the guide? Check out the excellent buds under $50. Moreover, if you want to go for better over-ear options then here's the headsets under $50 comparison table by HeadphonesAholic.
Contents
- 1 Koss UR-20 Headphone
- 2 Behringer HPS3000 Headphone
- 3 KZ ZST Headphone
- 4 Vogek On-Ear Affordable Headphones
- 5 AUKEY EP-B40 Wireless Headphone
- 6 Sennheiser CX300 Inexpensive Headphone
- 7 Monoprice 8323 Premium Headphone
- 8 MEE Audio M6 Memory
- 9 Mpow Bluetooth Headphones
- 10 Betron YSM1000 Earphone
- 11 Koss KSC75 Headphone
- 12 Philips SHE3590 Earphone
- 13 Panasonic RP-HT161-K Headphone
- 14 1MORE 1M301 Headphone