11 Best Budget Wireless Headphones – Rating 2021

The popularity of wireless headphones is easy to explain. These convenient and easy-to-use gadgets provide maximum mobility and freedom of movement. They are comfortable everywhere, at home, in the office, on the road, even while playing sports.

Photo: Pixabay.com

The market is filled with all kinds of models of this type of device. Variety also applies to the price factor. Today you can inexpensively purchase a gadget with decent quality characteristics: functionality, assembly, sound.

Depending on the principle of signal transmission, headphones come in several types:

• Bluetooth headphones.
  The most common type, including among budget models.
  Most modern gadgets are equipped with a bluetooth module. A similar receiver is built into the headphones, which picks up the wave from the transmitting device. The peculiarity of this type of connection is that it works over shorter distances, but at the same time it has better sound quality and greater resistance to interference. Headphones can be used indoors and outdoors. The newer the Bluetooth version, the better the sound quality and the less energy it takes to transmit and receive it. A separate type of TWS headphones
  : true wireless stereo - “true wireless headphones”. The left and right headphones do not have any connection with each other, unlike the regular Bluetooth version.
• Wi-Fi headphones.
  The operating process is almost identical, with the difference that the signal source and receiver have Wi-Fi modules to establish communication.
• Headphones.
  They receive a signal from their own base with a transmitting antenna that comes with the gadget.
• IR models.
  They work with the infrared channel, today they are considered outdated and less in demand.

Externally, wireless designs are not much different from their wired “colleagues”. The differences include greater weight, explained by the presence of a built-in power source - a battery.

The following types of models are produced by form factor:

• In-channel (vacuum).
  They are inserted completely or partially inside the ear canal and fixed with silicone ear pads. They are compact and have good sound insulation. This shape is typical for TWS headphones.
• Inserts (inserts).
  Inserted into the ear, compact. They are almost devoid of sound insulation, allowing you to hear surrounding sounds.
• Overhead, parotid.
  Placed over the ear without covering it completely. Fixed comfortably with a headband. They have smaller cups and ear pads than full-size ones.
• Full size.
  They completely cover the ears and have large cups. In turn, they are divided into open, closed, and semi-closed models, depending on the presence of holes that allow external sounds to pass through. This type is used by professionals and connoisseurs of high-quality sound.

Based on the type of fastening, models are distinguished:

with headband, occipital arch, without fastening.

Connection method:

with and without wire.

Wireless connection characteristics that are worth paying attention to include:

• Radius of the device.
• Bluetooth version for this type.
• Battery life.

The last point depends on the type and capacity of the battery:

• The Li-Ion battery
  benefits from light weight; it does not need to be fully charged, but it costs more.
• Ni-Cd batteries
  are cheaper than lithium-ion batteries, usually have a higher capacity, but weigh more.

Additional features of wireless devices include the following:

• Headset function.
  It consists of having one or more microphones for conversation.
• Auto-connection.
  A gadget within range automatically connects to the device it was previously paired with.
• Autopause.
  When you remove the earphone from your ear, playback pauses. Continues when you return it to its place.
• Noise suppression.
  Blocks external sounds using special technology.
• Touch control.
  All actions are regulated by touching the sensor on the device body.
• Adjusting the sound.
  Using a button or touch sensor on the headphones themselves.
• Voice functions.
  Ability to work with a voice assistant, perception of voice commands.
• Wireless charger.
  It can be implemented in different ways, for the headphones themselves, or for the charging case.
• Multipoint function.
  Simultaneous connection to two or more devices.
• Built-in player.
  Allows you to listen to audio files without a separate signal source.
• Replaceable panels.
  A decorative function that involves the presence of replaceable attachments and ear pads for the model.
• Cable as an option.
  To be able to connect wiredly, saving battery.

Most of these options are available on lower-priced models.

Important for sound characteristics:

• Reproducible frequency range.
  The optimal option is 20 Hz - 20 kHz.
• Sensitivity, sound volume.
  For humans, sound levels up to 100 dB are considered normal. Models with a large indicator are not recommended for use at maximum volume.
• Impedance (resistance).
  Affects sound quality and volume. For smartphones, tablets and MP3 players, the recommended value is up to 30 ohms. For PC it may be higher.

We present the rating of budget wireless headphones 2021. The best 11 models that were selected by our experts based on user reviews and ratings.

Which inexpensive wireless headphones to choose

The models presented in our selection are relatively universal in their functions. They can be used as a full-fledged headset, or simply for listening to media files on any device with a Bluetooth module. In order to choose the right headphones, you need to take into account personal characteristics and preferences, how often you use the gadget and for what purposes:

• The headphones should be comfortable, it is worth considering how comfortable their shape and size are for your ears.
• If you most often use headphones on the move, the best option would be in-ear models, with their characteristic secure fit.
• For sports, manufacturers produce specially designed models, taking into account the most active movements.
• If you want a complete absence of wires, pay attention to TWS models. They benefit not only in convenience, but also in autonomy. The storage case usually doubles as a charger.
• For each model, the operating time on one charge and charging time are indicated, make sure that it suits you.
• If the headphones will be used as a headset for a smartphone, choose a high-quality microphone with noise reduction.
• Study the sound characteristics if you plan to listen to music.
• It makes sense to choose a device with the latest version of bluetooth if the source gadget also supports it.
• Pay attention to additional features and design.

Good luck with your choice!
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Top 10 wireless headphones according to KP

Editor's Choice

Sony WH-1000XM3 (from 19 thousand rubles)

Sony WH-1000XM3. Photo: Sony

Wireless noise-cancelling headphones that sound the best.

For the past three years, Sony's 1000X series headphones have consistently been some of the best wireless headphones on the market. They sound great thanks to a combination of superior aptX wireless codecs and Sony's proprietary LDAC technology and protect against extraneous noise because... Sony's noise reduction algorithms are constantly being improved.

While the Sony WH-1000XM3 may not be a huge improvement over last year's WH-1000XM2, they are still superior to their competitors in almost every way: better sound, noise blocking, and more convenient features such as a quick attention span that lets all outside noise through without having to remove the device (the latter is ideal for when you're ordering a drink on a plane or chatting with a co-worker before getting back to your work).

Superior noise cancellation, great sound

The hinges are fragile

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Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700 (from 19.6 thousand rubles)

Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700. Photo: Bose

Bose's new wireless noise-canceling headphones are even better than before.

Bose has really outdone itself - and a big part of the appeal of these headphones is the sophistication of noise cancellation they offer.

As an alternative to the Sony WH-1000XM3, these headphones sound fantastic, with a bright, lively character and well-balanced sound. But the battery life is 10 hours less than Sony's headphones, even though they cost more.

Superior noise reduction, truly live sound

Battery life is worse than Sony

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Jabra Elite 85h (from 17.5 thousand rubles)

Jabra Elite 85h. Photo: Jabra

Cheaper than the leaders, but almost no worse.

The Elite 85h offers best-in-class battery life, stunning style, and plenty of customization options when it comes to audio profiles. However, some will complain about the lack of support for high-end codecs, and there are more powerful headphones on the market at this price.

Considering that the Jabra Elite 85h headphones are the company's first attempt at premium wireless ANC headphones, the result is quite commendable.

Best-in-class battery life, stylish and comfortable

No support for high-end codecs

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What other wireless headphones are worth paying attention to?

Bose QuietComfort 35 II (from 18.7 thousand rubles)

Bose QuietComfort 35 II. Photo: Bose

Premium headphones with excellent noise cancellation. Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones, like the first version, are equipped with proprietary noise-canceling technology that effectively blocks out noise, allowing the user to be alone with the music.

The headphones support Google Assistant so you can play music, receive messages, perform everyday tasks and get answers using your voice without looking at your phone.

Wide and clear sound, excellent noise reduction

Active equalizer

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Beyerdynamic Amiron Home (from 40 thousand rubles)

Beyerdynamic Amiron Home. Photo: Beyerdynamic

Ideal in everything except the price.

The Beyerdynamic Amiron Home are the best wireless headphones for sound quality you can buy on the market. But their bulky design makes them practically unsuitable for travel and sports. In general, these are headphones for lovers of crystal sound in a quiet environment.

Excellent build quality, crystal clear sound

Not very suitable for travel

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Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT (from 12 thousand rubles)

Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT. Photo: Audio-Technica

Reasonably priced, but with limited features.

Audio-Technica has a long history of producing high-quality headphones, microphones and turntable accessories, and with the release of the ATH-M50xBT, it brings studio-quality audio without a cord.

The ATH-M50xBT are designed for truly high-quality sound, with 45mm drivers and a frequency response range of 15-28.00 Hz.

The ATH-M50xBT headphones also performed well in terms of battery life and Bluetooth connectivity, however the microphone isn't particularly strong and there are difficulties making phone calls using them, but still, that's probably not the reason you bought I would like a pair of excellent class headphones.

Excellent sound quality, price

Not the most powerful

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Sennheiser Momentum Wireless (2019) (from 29 thousand rubles)

Sennheiser Momentum Wireless. Photo: Sennheiser

On-ear headphones that don't skimp on smart features.

In terms of sound quality, these Sennheiser headphones sound fantastic, with a high level of detail, warm bass and natural highs.

Custom noise reduction is a great solution, but it doesn't quite live up to the leading standards of Sony and Bose. Battery life also doesn't compete with the Sony WH-1000XM3.

So, why buy the Sennheiser Momentum Wireless? Well, if you like the Tile's built-in tracking, industrial design, and high-quality materials of the Momentum Wireless, that might be reason enough.

Superb sound quality, great design

More expensive than competitors

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AKG N60NC (from 7 thousand rubles)

AKG N60NC. Photo: AKG

The best price-quality ratio.

The AKG N60NC sounds like a pair of headphones that should be much more expensive than they actually are. In the mid-range retail segment, the headphones offer fantastic value for money, great sound, and noise cancellation levels that are on par with premium devices.

But the biggest problem with these headphones is that they literally press on your ear rather than sit on it, which causes discomfort over time. At the same time, the AKG N60NC is very compact.

Great sound, compact design

Not the most comfortable

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Grado GW100 Wireless (from 15 thousand rubles)

Grado GW100 Wireless. Photo: Grado

Retro design combined with great sound.

The Grado GW100 sound great with a wide soundstage, crisp highs, smooth mids and extended bass. They also have a retro design that recalls Grado's humble beginnings in 50s Brooklyn.

While the Bluetooth connection works very well, the need for a wireless pair of headphones with an open-back design may be unclear; They are not suitable for commuting or listening in public places. Speaking of which, being able to listen wirelessly is certainly handy when you're pottering around the house and can use these headphones with an AUX cable.

Overall, we can say that the Grado GW100s are aimed at a fairly niche market of audiophiles who crave wide, natural sound and listen to most of their music at home.

Fantastic sound quality, cool retro design

Not suitable for noisy places

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HONOR Sport AM61 (from 2.8 thousand rubles)

HONOR Sport AM61. Photo: HONOR

Great headphones for sports at an affordable price.

For its price, the model has good sound quality and fairly long operation on a single battery charge - it lasts for 8-10 hours. The headphones fit perfectly in the ear. The HONOR Sport AM61 comes with a storage case and four pairs of ear pads. Overall, this is one of the most balanced models in the low price segment. Some discomfort is caused by thickenings on the wires (battery and volume control) - but this is critical for those who engage in active sports. There is protection from moisture.

Excellent fit in ears, good battery life

Dangling nubs

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Wireless bluetooth headphones with active noise reduction

The headphones are completely wireless and have active noise cancellation, allowing you to enjoy music without being distracted by extraneous noise from the outside. A function has been added that works as a kind of filter, preventing noise and extraneous sounds from being heard.

Bose Quietcomfort 35 with isolation from the outside world

Large full-size wireless Bose Quietcomfort 35 with microphone.

The Quietcomfort 35 features active noise cancellation and a steel construction. The bowls are large and semicircular, due to which they “sit” well.

Wireless Bose quietcomfort 35 can be paired with an iPhone, thanks to NFC technology it quickly pairs with phones that also have a chip. Another advantage is that 10 minutes of charging is enough for 3 hours of use.

Pros:

• nice large ear pads;
• good plastic;
• easy volume control;
• fast connection to the phone;
• pairing with two wireless devices.

Minuses:

• lack of equalizer;
• Noise reduction is lost in headset mode.

Beats Studio 3 - 10 minutes charge gives you 3 hours of playtime

Matte wireless closed Beats Studio 3 with built-in LEDs. They have a high-quality battery that charges quickly.

The presence of active noise reduction makes Beats Studio popular, especially for music lovers. Large ear pads fold well inside the headband, which makes the model compact for transport.

Additional features include iPhone support. There is LED indication. The advantage of Beats Studio 3 is that just 10 minutes of charging lasts for 3 hours of active use.

Pros:

• build quality;
• design;
• suitable for sports;
• large equipment.

Minuses:

• price;
• pairing fails.

Bowers and Wilkins PX with environmental filters

An interesting design solution for wireless on-ear headphones. Elongated oval cups with a side headband, which makes them look unusual.

Their headband bends, due to which the connection with the bowls occurs not from the top, as usual, but from the side. The headband and large semicircular bowls are decorated with fabric and are less susceptible to damage.

Cool wireless Bowers and Wilkins PX has good sound. This is facilitated not only by good performance, but also by the active noise reduction function. They are also able to connect to a special application on the phone to play audio.

Pros:

• battery life;
• good sound;
• fast wireless connection to your phone;
• head removal sensors.

Minuses:

• hard ear pads;
• small equipment;
• Sound deterioration when connected via Bluetooth.

On-ear bluetooth headphones

Over-ear headphones with special supra-aural ear pads. They do not cover the ear, but simply apply it to it. Externally they are similar to full-size models, but if you look at the inside of the cup, you can see the difference.

JBL T450BT reliable and foldable

High-quality stereo JBL T450BT from a famous brand. Despite its large size, it has a folding design.

Closed overhead T450BT is a good design for a phone - round bowls, folding inwards. The matte finish makes them scratch resistant. The headband is not flat, but has a bulge on the top for secure attachment to the head.

Excellent sound characteristics. But the battery life of the wireless T450BT is disappointing - 11 hours is not a high figure for a full-size model.

Pros:

• convenient design for the phone;
• universal;
• good sound;
• soft ear pads;
• lungs.

Minuses:

• very tight;
• There is no way to listen while charging.

Marshall Mid Bluetooth - when all the functions are at their best

Full-size Marshall Mid Bluetooth with large ear pads, leather braided, which makes the design comfortable.

Plastic, stylized as leather, looks natural, while the Marshall Mid remains non-marking and less susceptible to mechanical damage. Square bowls on iron holders are another plus of this model.

The design folds compactly. There is also a twisted cord that allows you to connect the Marshall Mid to your phone using a 3.5 mm mini-jack connector.

Supports AptX codecs, due to which it has high-quality sound. A good microphone is installed that does not “catch” extraneous noise.

Pros:

• good management;
• clear sound;
• landing on the head;
• design;
• microphone.

Minuses:

• inconvenient equalizer;
• the bowls are pressing;
• lack of Multipoint.

Sony Mdr Zx330bt - clear sound

Standard over-ear Bluetooth headphones from Sony. The bowls have a glossy ribbed finish. Because of what they look old-fashioned, this design can be considered classic. With a folding design, however, it does not make the wireless Mdr Zx330bt more compact.

The advantage of these wireless Mdr Zx330bt is the NFC chip and voice dialing.

Pros:

• good sound quality;
• fast connection to the phone;
• convenient control;
• good microphone performance.

Minuses:

• when running there is a knocking sound;
• sound quality in headset mode;
• no discharge notification.

Armature wireless Bluetooth headphones for phone

These headphones are similar to vacuum ones, but have additional design features. They have a voice coil and driver. Due to these additions, their sound quality is higher.

Mifo O5 armature bluetooth headphones with microphone

Review: Mifo O5 Pro.

Excellent value for money and quality. They differ in sound quality.

Advantages:

• high-quality sound;
• fast connection to the phone;
• sit comfortably.

Flaws:

• small buttons;
• The charging case is difficult to open;
• no Aptx.

Earin M-1 Wireless with support for AptX codecs

Good wireless model. Has a reinforced emitter. Due to which the headphones have good sound.

Pros:

• build quality;
• good sound;
• headset functions for the phone.

Minuses:

• not very comfortable;
• may fall out of the ear;
• sound insulation.

Westone W10 + Bluetooth cable reinforced, water-resistant

Professional athletes pay attention to this wireless Bluetooth model. Due to the comfort and good sound of the Westone W10, they are popular when compared with other sports headphones.

Pros:

• excellent sound;
• good fit;
• with water protection;
• isolation.

Minuses:

• neck cord;
• price.

In-ear wireless bluetooth headphones

Such headphones are also called “in-ear” or “button” due to their design features. They are inserted into the auricle and are held in place due to the specific structure of the ear pads.

Apple Airpods 2 with wireless charging case and voice control

The second wireless model of the popular headset from Apple. They have gained incredible popularity, these are the best Bluetooth headphones. Apple Airpods 2 are good for iPhone phones.

Sold in a special case, which is also a charger. This Bluetooth gadget has a lot of advantages. However, they serve as a headset. Although Airpods play music at a high level.

Pros:

• fast wireless connection to your phone;
• convenient as a headset;
• sound quality;
• voice control.

Minuses:

• easily soiled;
• Sometimes they fall out of the ears.

Plantronics Backbeat Fit running companions with your phone

Comfortable Plantronics Backbeat Fit for athletes. Open bluetooth in-ear headphones with a neckband. Designed specifically for athletes. Their design allows them to fit securely in your ears and not fall out, even while running. The design itself is foldable and flexible, so the bow will not bend.

This headset is not only lightweight, but also waterproof.

Pros:

• control;
• good fixation;
• comfortable design of earbuds;
• waterproof;
• lungs.

Minuses:

• sound quality;
• The head cable sometimes gets in the way.

RHA TrueConnect for sports, waterproof

Stereo headphones for your phone with an interesting design. Waterproof, suitable for sports. The set includes a large number of replaceable ear pads.

In-ear RHA TrueConnect with soft silicone ear pads. And also, like AirPods, they have a case that serves as a charger and also serves as a box for carrying the headset.

RHA is positioned for athletes, but they are not suitable for runners, as they do not have additional fastening, which is why they can fall out while running. However, their advantage is that they are protected from moisture.

Pros:

• stays well in the ear;
• moisture-proof;
• sound;
• quality of materials.

Minuses:

• easily soiled;
• connection failures on the street.

Wireless Bluetooth open-back headphones for phone

Open headphones mean that the user will hear what is happening around him, and those around him will be able to partially hear the sound reproduced in the headphones. They externally suggest a design in which the “insides” of the model are visible.

Koss Porta Pro - good open-back headphones

Full-size wireless model from Koss with large open cups and a soft headband.

Pros:

• good sound;
• fits well on the ears;
• carrying box;
• wide range.

Minuses:

• neck cord;
• Remote Control.

Apple AirPods open wireless headphones for phone

Dynamic Stereo Headphones, the most popular wireless headphones in the world, ranks among the top 10 wireless headphones. AirPods are the first wireless charger option.

Pros:

• clear sound;
• reliable design;
• fast connection to the phone;
• good fit on the head and ears.

Minuses:

• the case is scratched;
• pressure during prolonged use.

Types and how to choose?

There are several classifications of wireless headphones: by type of connection, by mounting, and by purpose. In everyday life, Bluetooth headphones are most often used.

By type the following are distinguished::

• invoices;
• full size;
• vacuum (plugs);
• intracanal;
• monitor

When choosing, you should first of all pay attention to the purpose . Drop-down earbuds are unlikely to be suitable for athletes, and full-size options are not very comfortable in hot conditions.

You should also pay attention to the presence of a microphone, especially if the headphones are planned to be used as a headset.

Power consumption is necessary for those who use headphones on a long journey.

When using models for gaming or watching videos at home, it is not necessary to take models with high energy consumption up to 30 hours.

In this rating, we have collected for you the best models in terms of price, quality and reliability.

Rating of the TOP 22 best wireless headphones 2020-2021

How to choose headphones with good bass?

It is worth remembering that it is difficult to determine the “bass” of headphones from a picture on the Internet. Bass level is influenced by many factors:

• low-frequency range that the device can reproduce;
• membrane size (the larger the better);
• design (open, closed, vacuum, etc.);
• quality of ear pads;
• and other less significant factors.

For lovers of good bass, we have compiled a TOP of similar headphones that you will definitely like!