Best Budget Headphones Under $100 Australia 2025

Why Budget Headphones Have Never Been Better

The budget headphone market has transformed dramatically in recent years. Competition, improved manufacturing, and technological advances mean that today's $80 headphones often outperform $200 models from just a few years ago.

Modern budget headphones now commonly include features that were once premium exclusives:

• Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
• Wireless Bluetooth connectivity
• 30+ hour battery life
• App customisation and EQ
• Multipoint connection

Best Overall Under $100: Soundcore Space One

The Soundcore Space One is a revelation in budget audio. Anker's audio brand has delivered a headphone that genuinely competes with models costing twice as much.

Key Features:

• Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation
• LDAC codec support for high-resolution audio
• 40mm custom drivers
• 55-hour battery life (40 hours with ANC)
• Multipoint connection (2 devices)
• Soundcore app with extensive EQ

At approximately $99 AUD, the Space One delivers ANC performance that rivals the Sony WH-1000XM4 in many scenarios. The build quality is solid, and the sound signature is well-balanced with satisfying bass.

Best Budget Earbuds: Soundcore Space A40

If you prefer earbuds over headphones, the Soundcore Space A40 offers incredible value at around $99 AUD.

Why They Stand Out:

• Adaptive ANC with multiple modes
• 10-hour battery life (50 hours with case)
• Wireless charging case
• IPX4 water resistance
• Customisable EQ and controls
• Compact, pocketable design

The Space A40 punches well above its weight class, offering features typically found in earbuds costing $200+. Noise cancellation is effective for commuting, and sound quality is impressive for the price.

Best Under $50: JBL Tune 520BT

For those on a tighter budget, the JBL Tune 520BT delivers the famous JBL sound at an unbeatable price point of around $49 AUD.

What You Get:

• JBL Pure Bass sound signature
• Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity
• 57-hour battery life
• Lightweight, foldable design
• JBL Headphones app support
• Multipoint connection

While there's no ANC at this price, the Tune 520BT offers fantastic battery life and the punchy, bass-forward sound that JBL is known for. Perfect for casual listening and everyday use.

Best Wired Budget: Audio-Technica ATH-M20x

For critical listening on a budget, wired headphones still offer the best value. The Audio-Technica ATH-M20x is a studio monitor legend that costs around $79 AUD.

Professional Features:

• 40mm drivers tuned for accurate monitoring
• Circumaural design for isolation
• Lightweight for extended sessions
• Durable construction
• No battery required

The M20x delivers neutral, accurate sound that reveals details in your music. While they lack the convenience of wireless, their sound quality per dollar is exceptional.

Best Budget ANC Earbuds: Earfun Air Pro 3

The Earfun Air Pro 3 offers remarkable ANC performance at around $89 AUD, making premium features accessible to all.

Impressive Specifications:

• Qualcomm QCC3071 chip
• aptX Adaptive for low latency
• 6 microphones for ANC and calls
• 9-hour battery (45 hours with case)
• IPX5 water resistance
• Multipoint connection

Earfun has made a name by offering flagship-tier specifications at budget prices. The Air Pro 3 continues this tradition with effective ANC and excellent call quality.

Best Budget Gaming: HyperX Cloud Stinger 2

Gamers on a budget should look at the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2, available for around $69 AUD. It proves gaming audio doesn't require a premium investment.

Gaming Features:

• 50mm drivers with DTS Headphone:X
• Lightweight 275g design
• Swivel-to-mute microphone
• Memory foam ear cushions
• Durable steel slider
• 3.5mm compatibility (all platforms)

HyperX's Cloud series has long been the go-to recommendation for budget gaming headsets. The Stinger 2 continues this legacy with comfort, durability, and sound quality that exceeds expectations.

Budget Buying Tips

When shopping for budget headphones in Australia, keep these tips in mind:

1. Watch for Sales

Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday, and EOFY sales often see budget headphones drop significantly. The Soundcore Space One frequently drops below $80 during sales events.

2. Consider Refurbished

Certified refurbished headphones from reputable sellers offer significant savings with warranty protection. Amazon Renewed and manufacturer outlets are good sources.

3. Prioritise Your Needs

At budget prices, you'll need to make trade-offs. Decide what matters most:

• ANC priority: Choose Soundcore Space One
• Battery life priority: Choose JBL Tune 520BT
• Sound quality priority: Choose Audio-Technica ATH-M20x
• Portability priority: Choose Soundcore Space A40

4. Read Recent Reviews

Budget headphone quality can vary between batches. Check recent user reviews to ensure consistent quality and identify any emerging issues.

5. Verify Australian Stock

Some international budget models aren't officially available in Australia, which can complicate warranty claims. Stick to models with local stock and support.

What to Avoid at Budget Prices

While there's excellent value in the budget market, some pitfalls to avoid:

• No-name brands with inflated claims: If specs seem too good to be true, they usually are
• Counterfeit products: Stick to authorised retailers to avoid fakes
• Overly bass-heavy sound: Excessive bass often masks poor overall quality
• Products without warranty: Always ensure local warranty coverage

Upgrading from Budget Headphones

Budget headphones are an excellent starting point, and many people find they meet all their needs. However, if you eventually want to upgrade, here's what to expect at higher price points:

• $150-250: Better ANC, improved build quality, premium codecs
• $300-400: Best-in-class ANC, spatial audio, premium materials
• $400+: Audiophile-grade sound, cutting-edge features, luxury build

Check our noise-cancelling headphones guide when you're ready to explore premium options.

Our Verdict

For most Australians seeking budget headphones, the Soundcore Space One offers the best overall package under $100. Its combination of effective ANC, excellent sound, and premium features makes it hard to beat.

If you prefer earbuds, the Soundcore Space A40 delivers similar value in a more portable form factor. And for pure sound quality without wireless complexity, the Audio-Technica ATH-M20x remains an excellent wired option.

Great audio is more accessible than ever. These budget options prove you don't need to compromise on quality to find headphones that bring joy to your daily listening.

Explore our complete budget picks section for more recommendations, or read our wireless earbuds guide for detailed buying advice.