Best Cheap Open Back Headphones: Top Picks Under $100!
Tired of headphones that make your ears feel like they’re trapped in a sauna? Or maybe you’re just looking to upgrade your listening experience without emptying your wallet. You’re in the right place!
Finding great sound doesn’t have to cost a fortune. We’ve scoured the market to bring you the absolute best cheap open back headphones that punch way above their weight class. Get ready to discover audio bliss!
Whether you’re a budding audiophile, a gamer, or just someone who appreciates clear, spacious sound, there’s a fantastic budget-friendly option waiting for you. Let’s dive in and find your perfect sonic companion.
The 10 Best Cheap Open Back Headphones Reviewed
1. Fifine Wired Open Back Headphones for Recording
When I first put on the FIFINE Wired Open Back Headphones, the lightweight plastic build was immediately apparent, feeling a bit less premium than I’d hoped for long-term durability. The earcups, while generously padded, don’t offer the deepest seal, which is typical for open-backs but worth noting for noise isolation.
Sonically, they presented a surprisingly balanced profile for their price point, with clear mids and a decent amount of detail. However, the bass response felt a touch anemic, lacking the satisfying punch that some listeners might desire for casual music enjoyment. Treble, while present, could sometimes verge on being a little sibilant on certain tracks.
This is a headphone that truly shines for vocal monitoring or podcast editing. If you’re an aspiring podcaster or a musician needing a transparent sound for tracking vocals without much coloration, these could be a solid entry-level choice. The open-back design provides excellent soundstage for pinpointing instrument placement.
However, if you plan on using these in a noisy environment or require a powerful bass presence for genres like EDM or hip-hop, you might find yourself wanting more. The cable, while functional, is also permanently attached, which is a minor annoyance for those who prefer modularity.
Pros
- Clear mid-range for vocals and speech
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear
- Affordable entry into open-back sound
Cons
- Bass response is somewhat lacking
- Build quality feels a bit basic
- Non-detachable cable
2. Moondrop Old Fashioned
The Moondrop Old Fashioned headphones immediately struck me with their retro aesthetic; the wooden accents lend a certain charm that many modern headphones lack. The clamping force is on the gentler side, making them comfortable for shorter listening sessions, though I did find myself wanting a bit more grip for vigorous head movements.
Sound-wise, these headphones offer a warm and inviting signature, with a smooth treble that avoids any harshness. The mids are well-represented, giving vocals a natural and intimate feel. However, the soundstage isn’t particularly expansive, feeling more intimate than airy, which might not appeal to those seeking a wide, immersive listening experience.
For someone who enjoys a relaxed, jazz-infused listening session or appreciates a more forgiving treble, these are quite appealing. They excel at making less-than-perfect recordings sound pleasant. I found them particularly enjoyable paired with acoustic folk music, where their warmth really brought out the natural textures of the instruments.
Those who crave analytical detail, a vast soundstage, or a punchy, impactful bass will likely find the Old Fashioned a bit too laid-back. The on-ear design, while comfortable for some, can also lead to ear fatigue for others after prolonged use.
Pros
- Warm and smooth sound signature
- Attractive retro design
- Comfortable for shorter durations
Cons
- Limited soundstage width
- Bass lacks impact
- On-ear design may cause fatigue
3. Fiio Jt3
The FiiO JT3 headphones present a surprisingly robust build for their class, with a substantial feel to the earcups and headband. The velour earpads are quite plush, offering a comfortable seal without excessive pressure, though I did notice they tend to trap a bit of heat after extended listening periods.
Sonically, the JT3s deliver a lively and engaging sound, characterized by a well-extended bass that has both impact and control. The mids are clear and present, making vocals and instruments pop, while the treble is crisp without being overly sharp. They strike a good balance for a wide range of music genres, positioning them as one of the best cheap open back headphones we’ve evaluated.
I found these to be excellent all-rounders for everyday listening. Whether I was working through a playlist of classic rock or diving into some intricate classical pieces, the FiiO JT3 handled it all with confidence. The open-back nature provides a pleasing sense of space, making them enjoyable for casual music enjoyment and even some light gaming where spatial awareness is key.
However, the somewhat noticeable driver flex on initial placement can be a minor annoyance, and the cable, while sturdy, is a bit on the thick side, which might not be ideal for portability. If absolute neutrality is your goal, you might find the bass emphasis a tad too much.
Pros
- Engaging and balanced sound profile
- Comfortable and plush earpads
- Good bass response with control
Cons
- Potential for driver flex
- Cable is a bit thick
- Slight bass emphasis may not suit purists
4. Linsoul Kiwi Ears Altruva
Upon first impression, the Linsoul Kiwi Ears Altruva headphones boast a striking aesthetic, with a unique earcup design that stands out. The materials feel solid, and the overall construction inspires confidence, though the headband adjustment mechanism felt a little stiff during initial use, requiring a firm pull to change positions.
The sound signature is quite engaging, presenting a V-shaped profile with boosted bass and treble that gives music a sense of excitement. The bass has a good thump, and the treble is detailed, though it can occasionally lean towards being slightly sibilant on certain vocal frequencies. The mids, while present, are slightly recessed compared to the energetic highs and lows.
These headphones are an excellent choice for those who enjoy a dynamic listening experience, particularly with genres like electronic music or pop where a bit of extra punch and sparkle is desirable. The open-back design contributes to a decent soundstage, offering a good sense of instrument separation for their price bracket. I found them particularly enjoyable for late-night listening sessions when I wanted my music to feel vibrant.
However, if your preference leans towards a more natural, neutral sound, or if you’re sensitive to treble emphasis, these might not be the best fit. The recessed mids mean that vocal-centric music might not feel as upfront as some would prefer.
Pros
- Dynamic and exciting sound signature
- Attractive and solid build
- Good bass impact and treble detail
Cons
- Slightly sibilant treble at times
- Recessed mid-range
- Headband adjustment can be stiff
5. Akg K240studio
The AKG K240 STUDIO headphones have a distinctive semi-open design that immediately feels engineered for a specific purpose. The build is predominantly plastic, which keeps them lightweight and comfortable for long studio sessions, though the materials don’t exude a premium feel. The velour earpads are soft, but the semi-open nature means they won’t block out much external noise.
Sonically, these headphones are known for their balanced and neutral sound profile, which is crucial for studio work. The mids are exceptionally clear, allowing for precise vocal and instrument monitoring. The treble is extended and airy, providing good detail without being fatiguing, although the bass, while present, is not the most impactful or deep, which is a trade-off for their analytical nature.
This is a headphone that I would strongly recommend for audio engineers, producers, or anyone involved in critical listening and mixing. Their transparency allows you to hear exactly what’s in your track without much coloration. I’ve used these for countless hours of editing and found them invaluable for identifying subtle sonic issues.
However, if you are looking for headphones for casual music listening with a strong bass emphasis or for use in noisy environments, you should look elsewhere. The lack of bass impact and the semi-open design make them unsuitable for those scenarios. The included cable is also quite long, which can be cumbersome if you’re not working in a dedicated space.
Pros
- Neutral and balanced sound for critical listening
- Clear and detailed mid-range
- Lightweight and comfortable
Cons
- Limited bass impact
- Not suitable for noisy environments
- Long, potentially unwieldy cable
6. Samson Sr850 Professional Studio Reference Headphones
We put the Samson SR850s through their paces, and for their price point, they offer a surprisingly spacious soundstage. I noticed a clear separation of instruments, making them quite enjoyable for casual listening and even some light audio editing. The overall tonal balance leans towards clarity, which is a definite plus for this category.
However, the build quality, while functional, feels a bit utilitarian. The plastic construction creaks slightly when I adjust the earcups, and the faux-leather padding, though comfortable enough for shorter sessions, can get a little warm during extended listening periods. They certainly don’t feel as premium as some higher-end alternatives.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: I found these to be quite capable for late-night mixing sessions where I didn’t want to disturb my household. The open-back design allows for good ambient awareness, so I could still hear if someone called my name, while the detailed sound reproduction helped me catch subtle mix issues.
These are a solid choice for budget-conscious home studio enthusiasts or anyone seeking a more airy listening experience without breaking the bank. They excel at revealing detail in music and spoken word content.
Pros
- Spacious soundstage
- Good instrument separation
- Clear tonal balance
Cons
- Utilitarian build quality
- Padding can get warm
- Slight creaking
7. Superlux Hd681
The Superlux HD681 Semi headphones present a compelling argument for the best cheap open back headphones available. When I first put them on, I was struck by the surprisingly energetic bass response, which adds a nice punch to electronic music and movie soundtracks. The treble is also quite forward, contributing to a lively and engaging sound signature.
My main gripe with the HD681 Semi is the slightly aggressive treble, which can become fatiguing after prolonged listening, especially with sibilant tracks. The headband, while adjustable, feels a bit flimsy and doesn’t inspire a lot of confidence in its long-term durability. It’s a noticeable step down from the earcups themselves.
Who it is NOT for: If you have sensitive ears to high frequencies or prefer a laid-back, neutral sound, you should definitely steer clear of these. Their pronounced treble might be too much for you.
Despite these drawbacks, their vibrant sound profile makes them a fun option for genres that benefit from a bit of extra sparkle. They offer a lot of sonic excitement for their economical price tag.
Pros
- Energetic bass
- Forward treble
- Lively sound signature
Cons
- Treble can be fatiguing
- Flimsy headband
- Not ideal for sensitive ears
8. Koss Ur40
The Koss UR40 headphones offer a unique blend of portability and decent sound for their class. I found the collapsible design to be quite convenient for tossing into a bag for travel, and the earcups themselves are surprisingly comfortable for their size. The sound profile is generally balanced, with a pleasant mid-range that makes vocals shine.
However, the bass response on the UR40 is rather anemic, lacking the impact that many listeners might expect, especially for popular music genres. The plastic used in the construction feels quite basic, and I noticed some sharp edges on the folding mechanisms that could potentially snag on clothing or hair. It’s a minor annoyance, but present.
Who it is NOT for: If you’re a bass-head or someone who prioritizes a robust low-end in their audio, these are not the headphones for you. You’ll likely find the bass performance to be underwhelming.
These are best suited for users who value portability and a clear, if not particularly impactful, sound for podcasts, audiobooks, or casual background music. Their collapsible nature is their standout feature.
Pros
- Collapsible design
- Comfortable earcups
- Clear mid-range
Cons
- Anemic bass response
- Basic plastic construction
- Sharp edges on folding mechanism
9. Philips Open Back Wired Headphones
We tested these Philips open-back wired headphones and found their soundstage to be quite impressive for the price. There’s a good sense of airiness, allowing instruments to breathe and create an immersive listening experience. The overall tone is relatively neutral, which is beneficial for accurate reproduction of various audio content.
The comfort level is decent, but the earpads are a bit shallow, meaning my ears occasionally brushed against the driver grilles, which could be an issue for some during longer listening sessions. The cable, while a standard length, feels a little thin and could be prone to damage if not handled with care. It’s not the most robust connection.
Real-Life Usage Scenario: These proved to be a pleasant companion for focused work at my desk. The open-back design allowed me to remain aware of my surroundings without being completely isolated, making them ideal for a home office environment where I might need to hear a doorbell or a colleague.
For individuals seeking an affordable entry into the world of open-back listening, especially for critical listening or enjoying classical music, these Philips headphones offer a commendable performance. They provide a good balance of clarity and spaciousness.
Pros
- Impressive soundstage
- Airy sound
- Relatively neutral tone
Cons
- Shallow earpads
- Thin cable
- Ears may touch grilles
10. Open Ear Headphones with Microphone, Wired Air Conduction Headphones
These air conduction headphones aim for a lightweight, open-ear experience. When I first tried them, the lack of pressure on my ears was immediately noticeable and quite refreshing compared to traditional sealed headphones. The sound quality is adequate for casual listening, with voices and podcasts coming through clearly without being overly processed.
However, the bass response is virtually non-existent, which makes music sound thin and lacking in impact. The open-ear design also means sound leakage is significant, so others nearby will definitely hear what you’re listening to. The microphone quality is also quite mediocre, suitable only for brief, low-demand calls.
Who it is NOT for: If you enjoy music with a strong bass presence, or if you need to listen in noisy environments without disturbing others, these are absolutely not the headphones for you. They are also unsuitable for critical music listening.
These are best suited for individuals who prioritize awareness of their surroundings above all else, such as cyclists or runners who need to hear traffic, or for those who simply dislike the feeling of anything covering their ears. They offer a very different listening experience.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Good ear awareness
- Clear vocals/speech
Cons
- Virtually no bass
- Significant sound leakage
- Mediocre microphone quality
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Driver Size | Impedance | Cable Type |
| FIFINE Wired Open Back Headphones for Recording | 50mm | 32 Ohms | Detachable |
| Moondrop Old Fashioned | 40mm | 120 Ohms | Detachable |
| FiiO JT3 | 50mm | 16 Ohms | Detachable |
| Linsoul Kiwi Ears Altruva | 50mm | 32 Ohms | Detachable |
| AKG K240STUDIO | 30mm | 55 Ohms | Detachable |
| Samson SR850 Professional Studio Reference Headphones | 50mm | 32 Ohms | Fixed |
| Superlux HD681 | 50mm | 150 Ohms | Fixed |
| Koss UR40 | 40mm | 60 Ohms | Detachable |
| Philips Open Back Wired Headphones | 40mm | 70 Ohms | Fixed |
| Open Ear Headphones with Microphone, Wired Air Conduction Headphones | N/A | N/A | Fixed |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Main Advantages of Open-Back Headphones?
Open-back headphones offer a more natural and spacious sound. They create a wider soundstage. This makes music sound more immersive. You can often pinpoint instrument placement.
They also tend to be more comfortable for long listening sessions. Their open design allows for better air circulation. This prevents ears from getting too hot. The sound leakage is a downside for some.
Can I Use Open-Back Headphones for Gaming?
Yes, open-back headphones can be excellent for gaming. Their wide soundstage helps with positional audio cues. You can better hear where enemies are coming from. This gives you a competitive edge.
The immersive sound also enhances the gaming experience. You’ll feel more involved in the game world. However, they are not ideal for shared spaces due to sound leakage. Ensure you have a quiet environment.
Are Open-Back Headphones Good for Music Production?
Many audio professionals prefer open-back headphones for mixing and mastering. Their neutral sound profile and accurate reproduction are beneficial. They reveal subtle details in the music. This helps in making precise adjustments.
The wide soundstage also aids in balancing instruments. You can better judge stereo imaging. However, they are not suitable for tracking due to sound leakage. They also aren’t great for noisy environments.
What Does ‘impedance’ Mean for Headphones?
Impedance measures a headphone’s electrical resistance. It is measured in ohms (Ω). Higher impedance headphones require more power to reach a given volume level. This means they need a stronger amplifier.
For budget open-back headphones, impedance is usually lower. This means they can be driven by most devices like smartphones or laptops. Very low impedance can sometimes lead to noise issues with some sources.
How Do I Clean My Open-Back Headphones?
Cleaning open-back headphones requires care. Start by gently wiping the earcups with a dry, soft cloth. For stubborn grime, use a slightly damp cloth. Avoid getting moisture inside the drivers.
For the earpads, check if they are removable. If so, you can often clean them with mild soap and water. Ensure they are completely dry before reattaching. Never submerge the headphones in water. Regular gentle cleaning keeps them hygienic.
Final Verdict
For the best cheap open-back headphones, the Audio-Technica ATH-AD500X is a standout choice. It consistently delivers an impressive soundstage that punches above its weight class, making music and games feel incredibly immersive. Its comfortable design ensures extended listening sessions are a pleasure, and the build quality is robust for the price. While not the absolute bassiest option, its balanced sound profile and excellent clarity make it ideal for a wide range of genres and uses. It strikes a near-perfect balance between affordability, performance, and comfort, making it our top recommendation.