The thing which bothers the most while looking for a quality studio headphone is the price. It's the market where you can find headsets priced over a thousand dollars as well. Trust me, you don't have to break your bank while buying an excellent studio headphone, and keeping that in check today, you'll learn about the fourteen best studio headphones under 100 dollars.
Best Studio Headphones Under 100 Dollars - 2021
- Best Overall Under 100: ATH-M30x Studio Headphones
- Best for Recording: Sennheiser HD280PRO
- Best Budget: Vogek Professional Studio Headphones
- Best Studio Monitor: Sony MDR7506
- Best for Mixing: AKG K240
- Best Open Back: GRADO SR80e
- Best for Audiophiles: AmazonBasics Studio Monitor
- Best Closed Back: Shure SRH440
- Best Sounding: Superlux HD668B Headphone
| BEST OVERALL 🏆 | PREMIUM CHOICE 💎 | BEST VALUE 💲 | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
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| NAME | ATH-M30x Studio Headphones | Sennheiser HD280PRO | Vogek Professional Studio Headphones |
| SPECIAL | Amazon's Choice ✅ | Amazon's Choice | Recording ✅ | Amazon's Choice ✅ |
| DRIVERS | 40 mm | 40mm | 50mm |
| CONNECTIVITY | Wired | Wired | Wired |
| Frequency R | 10Hz-20kHz | 8Hz-25kHz | 20Hz-20kHz |
| Impedance | 47 Ohms | 64 Ohms | 32 Ohms |
| Price | Under 100$ | Under 100$ | Under 100 (30)$ |
| RATINGS | 4.5/5 | 4.4/5 | 4.3/5 |
1. Best Overall Under 100: ATH-M30x Studio Headphones
Ratings: 4.3/5 | Type: Wired
Amazon's Choice 
Design
Audio Technica's ATH-M30x is a bulky headset. These are wired and over-ear type headphones. The headband has a large body made of sturdy material, and it sits comfortably on the head.
Moreover, the left and right cups are indicated on each end of the headband. Ear cups are large, and the foam used for cushioning is soft, which ensures long sessions of comfort and ease. The outer layout of the ear cups is also stylish and contains the unique branding of the company.
Additionally, these have a cut edge design with the movable ear cups and can be easily folded to a compact size, making them portable. Moreover, both of the ear cups are independent of each other and can move or swirl outside individually. There is a coil attached to the left ear cup that has a convenient length of 3.0m.
These headphones have 15-20,000 Hz frequency response for better sound and maximum input power of 700 mW. The package includes Protective carrying pouch; 6.3 mm (1/4") screw-on adapter.
Performance
These are excellent sounding headphones in the sub $100 range with higher sensitivity, lower impedance, and higher maximum input power than many expensive ones.
Also, the M30x offers excellent sound quality and reproduction for its price. The headphones produce a rich, clean, and detailed sound with the right amount of bass, they are comfortable and provide a smidgen of passive noise cancellation, as well as there is virtually no noise interference.
Moreover, these are very balanced, maybe not the best if you prefer deep bass and want your teeth to vibrate from the sounds, but these are just excellent for mixing and mastering. The mid-range is crisp to an alien-like extent. The highs are clear enough, and the lows sound natural and round. Overall, it's great to pair of studio headphones under 100 dollars.
| Driver: | 40mm Drivers |
| Frequency: | 10Hz-20kHz |
| Connectivity: | 3.0 m Cord |
| Earcup Swivel: | 15° Both Directions |
| Sensitivity: | 96 dB |
| Impedance: | 47 Ohms |
| Max Input Power: | 1300 mW |
| Weight: | 0.48 lbs |
| Product Dimensions: | 11.4 x 10 x 4.1 in |
2. Best for Recording: Sennheiser HD280PRO
Ratings: 4.0/5 | Type: Wired
Amazon's Choice
Design
Even though the design of Sennheiser HD280PRO Headphone is not different from many other headsets, yet its performance is quite good as compared to others. Although the design is typical, the frame is durable. The headband is padded with soft cushioning, which makes the studio headphones extremely comfortable.
Moreover, these are not as lightweight as the M30x but still feel great on the head due to compact design. These headphones claim "up to" 32db reduction in ambient noise level. That is as good or better than most ear muffs for shooting. As compared to the low-end headsets the HD280Pro's Impedance is higher.
Also, the downsides are that the foam around the cups tends to come off after a while. The plug and cable are very heavy and stiff (as far as plugs and cables go), which could put extra strain on the devices the headset is connected to.
Additionally, coiled wire makes it less cumbersome when managing the cable if on the go or in a shared office, but that doesn't matter for a studio headset. It comes with a 3.5mm jack that you can thread on the included 1/4 inch connector.
Performance
When it comes to the sound, these are excellent. The quality of sound is good with high comfort. Moreover, the audio is transparent, neutral, and engaging. The sound stage is more natural, and they do a decent job of blocking outside noise.
Additionally, they're also reasonably neutral-sounding except for one small chunk of the audio spectrum, the lowest octave or so of bass. There seems to be a slight rise in response in that area but not noticeable. However, the amplifier has no dedicated headphone driver that runs right off the final transistors, so there's plenty of drive for 64-ohm cans. May not quite have the quality of a beautiful outboard HP amp, but it works pretty well. Its sound Isolation is quite fantastic for not being noise canceling.
You could seriously use these as earmuffs to block out sound even without any audio playing, which is excellent for detailed audio and studios. Overall, I'd say it's one of the best studio headphones under 100, although it's not perfect but does most of the work perfectly.
| Driver: | 40mm Drivers |
| Frequency: | 8Hz-25kHz |
| Connectivity: | 9.8' Coiled Cord |
| Earcup Swivel: | 15° Both Directions |
| Sensitivity: | 102 dB |
| Impedance: | 64 Ohms |
| THD: | 0.1% |
| SPL: | 113dB |
| Contact Pressure: | 6N |
| Max Input Power: | 500 mW |
| Weight: | 1.2 lbs |
| Product Dimensions: | 9.64 x 7.36 x 3.3 in in |
3. Best Budget: Vogek Professional Studio Headphones
Ratings: 4.3/5 | Type: Wired
Design
Vogek Professional Studio Headphones offer a comfortable design with beautiful detailing. The headset comes in black color with red threading on the edges of ear cushions. It has a wide headband that can be moved and adjusted according to the fit of the head. Ear cups are filled with soft memory foam, while smooth leather covers them.
Moreover, the leather is durable, and the foam in it is also breathable, so you can wear them for long sessions without any unease. The ear cups turn both outward/inward so that the headphones can lay flat, can let others hear the same thing you might be listening to without the need of having to take them off, and a few other useful reasons. Another feature includes its 2 in 1 plug; one plug is 3.5 mm, and the other one is 6.5mm. Also, these stereo headphones are lightweight, and the ear cups can rotate up to 90 degrees. Because of this, it becomes effortless to carry them with you as it enhances the portability.
Also, the cord used in the manufacture is made of sturdy material and is flexible too. Its length is metered compatible with iPhone, iPad, Android, and computers. Besides this, it can also be connected to bass, drum, electronic guitar, and other instruments with a 3.5mm plug, which makes these headphones the best studio choice.
Performance
Vogek claims to provide a HIFI sound with the best music experience, which is true. With the help of 50mm neodymium drivers, it produces high-quality sound and deep bass. Its most distinguishing feature is its Professional DJ monitoring for the people who are looking for top music production headphones or love music.
Furthermore, they have a clear, enjoyable sound, aren't expensive but could very well be expected to be as costly as expensive earphones. Moreover, the sound quality is pretty solid also. Highs are good, and lows are also fairly decent. There isn't a whole lot of bass, but if you have a device that has an equalizer.
Lastly, Vocals, Highs, Lows, and Mid Range all are on point. You can't go wrong with these headphones, the sound quality will surprise you, and the bass sounds normal, not overpowering or distorted. Overall, considering the price tag of under 30, these are the best studio headphone you can get.
| Driver: | 50mm Drivers |
| Frequency: | 20Hz-20kHz |
| Connectivity: | 3m Coiled Cord |
| Earcups: | 90° Rotatable |
| Impedance: | 32 Ohms |
| Plug: | 2-IN-1 |
| Weight: | 0.88 lbs |
| Product Dimensions: | 7.1 x 5.7 x 4 in |
4. Best Studio Monitor: Sony MDR7506
Ratings: 4.6/5 | Type: Wired
Amazon's Choice
Design
Sony MDR7506 Professional Headphones are thin and have an odd appearance. These are wired headphones with closed-ear designs. However, these are large-diaphragm headphones, but the construction is not so good. They look inexpensive because of the thin headband with steel on the ends. However, the mid of the headband is covered with leathers, and the steel ends make it movable. Because of this, they can be adjusted in any head size with ease.
Moreover, you won't feel any pressure on your head or ears because these are very light in weight. Ear cups are covered with soft material, and these can also be moved. There are numbers on them for cup adjustment to ensure a specific setting. It comes with a cable that is sturdy and is exceptionally long with a 1/4-inch adapter. Additionally, it comes with protective storage.
Performance
Although the design of Sony MDR 57506 is not quite appealing, its functions are. Firstly, it has 40 mm neodymium drivers, which ensure a vivid and clear sound. Not only this, it cancels out the outside noises excellently. Even if the volumes are very high, the sound leakage is zero means the volume has to be extremely loud for you to start hearing a very slight sound leak.
Also, the sound of this pair is perfect for studio use because as too much bass or too high in music/sounds can destroy the original tone. But and this pair is as close to flat sounding as possible. It means that they do not go over the board in emphasizing the bass or highs. But they do focus on enhancing the mids, which is very important to musicians.
Furthermore, the soundstage is detailed, and you can hear the background in music. You want this in your headphones bucket because it gives you more of a sonic experience. For the price, you pay under $100. You couldn't find a better sounding overall pair of headphones than these.
| Driver: | 40mm Drivers |
| Frequency: | 10Hz-20kHz |
| Connectivity: | 9.8' Cord |
| Sensitivity: | 106 dB/W/m |
| Impedance: | 63 Ohms |
| Max Input Power: | 1,000mW |
| Weight: | 0.5 lbs |
| Product Dimensions: | 1 x 1 x 1 in |
5. Best for Mixing: AKG K240
Ratings: 4.5/5 | Type: Wired
Design
One of the best studio products that AKG has released to date includes K240 Professional Studio Headphones. As the name indicates, these are specially made for professionals. These headphones have a good layout with semi-open and over-ear design.
It is a wired set with a sturdy build. Materials used for its makeup are robust and durable. Its headband is broad with a steel band that helps in its mobility for adjusting on every head. Moreover, the steel band has two circles on which L and R signs are mentioned on the left and right sides, respectively. A small logo of K240 studio is also attached to both ends of this steel band. Ear cushions are pleasantly soft and snugly due to their padding.
Additionally, the cable used in it is also durable and is 3 meters long — a single-sided cable aids in ease of use. A professional mini XLR connector allows you to change the cable quickly. The package includes AKG 240 headphone set and an amplifier.
Performance
With the help of a 30mm XXL transducer, these headphones transmit the signals precisely and dynamic range of sounds. The quality of sound that these provide is also outstanding as the frequency range is 15-25.000 Hz. The lows are well detailed and do not mask other frequency ranges.
However, the bass is good but not so overwhelming. These deliver the best midranges with an excellent treble. They are airy sounding and not piercing at all. Overall, the sound signature of these headphones leans towards the darker side and sounds very intimate.
Furthermore, they are suitable for extended sessions. One thing that this set lacks in sound quality is its sound stage, although it is realistic and natural but not as extensive as others. However, these are best for drumming, music and enhances the listening experience. Getting the headphone amplifier in addition to the cans for some dollars more than buying the headphones alone is an incredible value, and ensures you'll get the most out of them.
6. Best Open Back: GRADO SR80e
Ratings: 4.3/5 | Type: Wired
Amazon's Choice
Design
GRADO SR80e Stereo Headphones do not have an appealing design, but it includes premium features. These are wired headphones with open back design. The headband is thin but durable and does not have padding on the underside. The band ends on the small blocks of signs for left and right symbols, which further are connected to the ear cups with the help of a metal rod.
Moreover, the ear cups have a moderate size and perfect fit that is not too loose, neither too tight. Overall, these are plain, earpieces are plastic and do not form hot spots around the ears. However, the coils used are not tangle-free and not so durable.
Performance
The sound of GRADO SR80e is excellent, with mediocre depth to it. These offer a solid bass that is deep but not boomy. Additionally, no amplifier is required with these as they are low impedance providing loud sound without compromising the quality of sound. These have a detailed and accurate sound that is most required in mixing or studios.
Furthermore, they are not dry and boomy, so these do not turn the mids are bass into annoyingly loud. The overall sound is crisp, and for audiophiles, these are perfect as they accurately reproduce the music — these sound crisp on low to high sound with a full range of audio coming through.
7. Best for Audiophiles: AmazonBasics Studio Monitor
Ratings: 4.0/5 | Type: Wired
Design
Designed for comfort during long sessions, AmazonBasics Studio Headphones work perfectly. Although, these have a bulky appearance but are lightweight. These come in only one color i.e., black. The headband is wide and broad with the leather covering on it.
Moreover, it has a self-adjusting design that means it fits all heads. Ear cups also have a sturdy appearance with soft cushioning, and these can move in the range of 90 degrees. Because of this movability, these can be folded into a compact size, and you can carry them anywhere with you. These are wired headphones with a durable cable, which is 9.8 feet long. Furthermore, it has a plug of 6.5mm, and it is detachable. It has a 12-month warranty.
Performance
These headphones are specially made for studio purposes and field recordings. They have a flat, wide-range response with no colorations, no phase distortions, and no intentional emphases because these are tailored for delivering the natural and real sounds. However, it does enhance the bass, which is much required in the studio. But the lows can get murky while frequency response itself does not work for its purpose.
Additionally, there is no transparency and the barest of high-end response. This, in turn, makes the sound stage narrow and constricted. However, overall, the sound is not exceptionally pleasant but acceptably enjoyable, over a wide variety of source material. Lastly, if you want to go for something extra-ordinary, check the top studio headphones of the year.
8. Best Closed Back: Shure SRH440
Ratings: 3.8/5 | Type: Wired
Design
Shure SRH440 has a very stylish and fashionable design. These are specially made for studio recordings. It is well constructed and has a strong build. These are heavier than some other headphones but not so heavy that these might hurt your head.
Moreover, the headband is also made of robust and sturdy material, but it is covered with a soft leather-like material. It is adjustable and fits almost every head size without any problem. The ear cups are large, so they easily cover your ears and fit them nicely. For quick and easy use, both ear cups are mentioned with their respective sides i.e., left and right. Cushioning of the ear cups has been done on the edges and is hollow from inside for air permeability and better deliverance of sounds. Also, it is compact and can be easily folded for portability.
Furthermore, there is a cord attached to one of the ear cups, which is tangle-free and can be detached. Its package includes SRH440, Threaded 1/4" Gold-plated adapter, carrying bag, and user guide
Performance
In the context of performance, these headphones are outstanding. These have a neodymium driver of 40 mm, which ensures the exceptional reproduction of sound. It delivers a wide range of frequencies with its enhanced responses.
Moreover, it has 2 44 Ohm impedance that means that it can accurately produce almost any sound with precision and accuracy. However, they do not have an active noise cancellation feature, but they can passively control some noise coming from outside.
Additionally, the tones are warm and deep bass, but it can get muddy sometimes There are a little hump mid-bass regions and some broad, shallow dip in upper mids and lower treble. Otherwise, these are good working headphones at such a low price.
9. Best Sounding: Superlux HD668B Headphone
Ratings: 4.2/5 | Type: Wired
Amazon's Choice
Design
Superlux HD668B Headset is built on ergonomic principles. These headphones have a thin and sleek appearance, yet they have a trendy look. These are wired headphones with semi-open design. The headband is made of hard plastic structure, which looks inexpensive but is very durable. It is patented and can adjust itself according to fit for stability. Plus, the headrest has a manual sliding adjuster to compensate for an increase in head size, as well. The headphones are semi-open, which means all of the sounds may not leak out for others, nearby to hear.
Additionally, its cable is detachable, and you can easily detach or replace the cable with standard 3.5mm to 3.5mm cable of any length if it fails. Also, it comes with two cables, one for mobile use, which is 3ft and the other is 9ft. Moreover, the frequency response is an above-average, 10-30KHz. Many headphones or headsets are at 20-20KHz. Also, the impedance of 56 ohms with a maximum input power of 300 mW is impressive for protection from overload by various audio equipment.
Performance
With a stylish appearance, the working of the Superlux HD668B Headphones is also amazing. Its double dome 50mm drivers produce bright and vivid sound. Every sound can be heard with ambiance and clarity from all angles, crisp with no distortion.
Moreover, the highs/low balance of sounds are excellent, as well. Bass is there, but not too, much in increasing amount of bass, drowns out the pure sound. These are studio monitors, so you can hear the tiniest detail across the entire frequency range when doing a final mixdown. I think the lower mids are ever so slightly recessed to avoid bass bleed into the mid frequencies, but the lower-mid slight recess is barely noticeable.
Furthermore, the lower-mids are where the warmth of a vocalist's voice is, but again, it's barely noticeable. In general, you will hear everything the way the recording engineers intended for you to hear it. That is typical of studio monitors. These are phenomenal for the price because you will listen to everything.
10. ATH-M20x Closed Back Headphone
Ratings: 4.4/5 | Type: Wired
Amazon's Choice
Design
Audio Technica ATH-M20x headphones have a basic and conventional design. The construction is done by strong, durable material. Also, it is a wired headset with closed back design.
Moreover, the headband is wide and covered by a skin-friendly material. The indication of left and right earcup is evident on each end of headband using symbols R and L. Ear cups are plentiful, and the foam used for cushioning is soft, which ensures long sessions of comfort and ease. In the package along with the headset, you'll get 6.3mm (1/4") snap-on adapter.
Performance
It serves its purpose for recording vocals, clear highs, good mids, minimal bass. Additionally, these are significant 40mm drivers and require a suitable amount of gain to achieve higher volume levels.
Additionally, if you're already listening to loud music like hip-hop or rock, it might not be an issue; but for softer, subtler performances, you may struggle to hear the finer details. Connected to a computer's 3.5mm jack, they sound fine; and if you're using them in conjunction with an audio interface like the Focusrite 2i2, they're loud enough.
11. TaoTronics Hybrid ANC Headphone
Ratings: 4.6/5 | Type: Wireless
Design
TaoTronics Hybrid Headphones have a chic and dapper design. Its matte black color makes it look more sophisticated and stylish. Also, it is a Bluetooth headphone with over-ear design.
Moreover, the materials used for construction are strong and durable. The headband is mildly broad but comfortably sits over the head. There are signs of R and L on the edge where it meets the ear cups. These signs help you to differentiate between the left and right sides of the set without wasting a lot of time. Further down, the ratcheting points appear to be made of metal and allow you to adjust the headphones with a firm “click” into place.
Also, the ear cups themselves are large and circular in design with a lovely end caps consisting of chamfered metal printed with the TaoTronics logo on the end cap. Additionally, the ear cups are filled with protein cushions, making them soft and comfortable. Not only the filling of cups is soft, but the material covering them is also smooth and skin-friendly. That is why these headphones provide a comfortable and pleasant experience.
Lastly, it comes with a Carrying Case, one 3.5mm AUX Cable 1, USB Charging Cable, 1 User Guide, and an Airplane Adapter.
Performance
Surprisingly TaoTronics Hybrid Headphones have performed well in its sound quality. First of all, these are ANC, which means you will hear detailed sound with clarity. With 40 mm neodymium drivers, you will be able to listen to instruments as they were intended for you to hear, and the bass and treble are just right.
Moreover, if you are looking for headphones that deliver the bass correctly, then go for it as these are very bass forward. Additionally, these enhance the tonal signature by emphasizing the low ends, but they lack mids if the ANC is off. ANC is not as excellent and broadband as others but does its job nicely. Secondly, the Bluetooth range is also useful as it works 40 feet away from the connected device without any drop-off or stuttering. Thirdly, the battery life is impressive, as it can last up to 5 days.
However, if you don’t flip the ANC switch off, the ANC can remain on even if the headphones are off, draining the battery. Overall, this set is recommended because of its chic, durable design and outstanding functionality.
12. Spadger CD990 Open Back Headphone
Ratings: 4.8/5 | Type: Wired
Amazon's Choice
Design
This open back studio headphone by Spadger has a typical design with a bulkier design. It is a wired set that is made up of durable material. The headband is cushioned with soft foam and has over-ear pads that, too, are padded with the same comfortable foam.
Moreover, this foam is covered with a leather that is environment-friendly and allows enough air permeability. The earpads are moveable and can swirl in outside direction bilaterally or even individually.
Additionally, it comes with two plugs that are the plugs that end into the headphones are 3.5 mm (the cables can be unplugged from the headphones). The end that plugs into your audio device is also 3.5 mm, but a 6.3 adapter is provided. The cable is easily detachable and replaceable. Also, the length of the cable is nice and long
Performance
These headphones are excellent quality with amazingly crisp sound. These deliver a natural and tonal sound with reasonably loud volume when connected to smartphones and tablets. However, you may need an amplifier for the mid to be forward.
Moreover, you don’t need much power as they have 98 dB sensitivity and 64 Ohm resistance that is much lower, like most smartphones prefer. Moreover, the mids and highs are fine, making the sound clear and bright.
13. Koss Pro-4AA Headphone
Ratings: 4.0/5 | Type: Wired
Amazon's Choice
Design
Koss Pro Studio headphones have a stylish and modern look. Its whitish gold color makes it look more elegant. However, its build is heavy and bulky but made the frame is sturdy and durable. The headband is cumbersome, and its underside is generously padded for ease during long sessions.
Also, the steel used in its construction is durable. But these headphones are bulky and do not fold into a compact size. Ear cups are extensive and cover the ears entirely. Additionally, these are very comfortable to wear because of their soft cushioning. It comes with a cord that is 8 feet long and is coiled with a 6.5mm plug.
Performance
This pair is 90% good with traditional pros and cons. Firstly, by virtue of the design, these cancel out the noises perfectly. The sound is crisp, but solid-state amplification is a little screechy with the mid-range present but softened and the lighter bass. On the other hand, amplification with appropriate tubes parks the mid and bass right upfront and removes that little bit of sibilance.
They remain a little tiny bit treble-heavy, but it's not unpleasant. Moreover, the response on the high end is good to moderate bass. The frequency response of these headphones is incredible.
14. Tascam TH-02 Headphone
Ratings: 3.9/5 | Type: Wired
Design
The headset is amazing, with beautiful design. It is very well constructed and has little weight. The headset is wired with a long coil. Additionally, the headband is made of a sturdy material which makes it long-lasting. It's a headband which is broad, and there is a padding on the underside which makes it very comfortable to wear.
Moreover, the ear cups are moveable and folded in to compact size so you can carry them with you easily. The padding on the ear cups is done by a soft foam that is covered by a smooth textured cloth. The cups of the set are also very comfortable and do not pressure the ears at all. It has a long cord that is straight and tangles free. Additionally, this set has two adapters that are 1/8” (3.5mm) to 1/4” (6.3mm).
Performance
They're great for the price, audio quality is excellent, and the plastic build surprisingly stands the test of time and pretty good on comfort as well. These headphones do a great job reproducing the sound in all different types of music.
Also, the bass is sufficient to reproduce the lows of heavy metal music and the beat in rap/hip hop music. The mids are reasonably even and clear, and the highs are not fatiguing. For symphony music, you can hear all sections and distinguish the full range of instruments clearly. Besides, sound quality is crispy and bright, with a moderate amount of bass.