Finding the best headphones under $100 can be more challenging than anticipated. At WIRED, the team dedicates significant time to listening to music, often using high-end and costly models. They have specific playlists for testing bass, assessing detail, and even for dance parties. However, the team equally enjoys evaluating more affordable options, viewing it as a quest to discover which models offer the most technology for the price. Each year, the quality of these budget-friendly headphones improves.
Despite these advancements, many inexpensive headphones still lack in sound quality, prompting the team to continuously test and update their selections regularly. For those searching for quality headphones, WIRED also provides various buying guides, including recommendations for the Best Wireless Headphones, Best Workout Headphones, and Best Phones with a Headphone Jack.
As of October 2024, updates to their recommendations include the addition of the Soundpeats Capsule3 Pro+ and JLab Go Pop ANC, while some older models have been removed from the list.