On-ear headphones are a more compact and affordable option compared to around-ear or over-ear headphones. While they may not offer active noise canceling, they are still a great choice for those who prefer smaller ear cups and a more travel-friendly design. Prices for on-ear headphones can range from under $40 to around $100, making them a budget-friendly option. Some models, like the Sony WH-CH520 or the Soundcore by Anker H30i, offer good sound quality, comfort, and wireless connectivity. The majority of on-ear headphones also provide a wired connection for convenience.
The Sony WH-CH520 is a budget-friendly on-ear headphone option that offers decent sound quality, comfort, and long battery life for around $50. While it lacks noise canceling and has a somewhat basic design, it provides overall balanced sound with good clarity and punchy bass. The multipoint Bluetooth pairing feature allows you to connect to two devices simultaneously, making it convenient for switching between devices. The Sony CH-520 is a wireless-only headphone with no wired option, available in different color options.
The Soundcore by Anker H30i is another affordable on-ear wireless headphone option that competes with the Sony CH-520 and JBL Tune 510BT. While lacking active noise canceling, the H30i offers decent sound quality with ample bass and a folding design for portability. With a battery life of up to 70 hours, these headphones are suitable for long listening sessions. Voice-calling performance is adequate in quieter environments, and the companion app allows you to customize the sound profile to your preferences.
The Beats Solo 4 on-ear headphones provide significant improvements in sound quality, battery life, and voice-calling performance compared to the previous model. While priced at $200, they may be worth considering when discounted to around $130, making them a more cost-effective option. With a compact design and no active noise canceling, the Solo 4 headphones offer a balance of performance and portability for users who do not require ANC features.
JBL’s Live 670NC and Tune 670NC on-ear headphones stand out for their active noise canceling capabilities, offering a more premium look and feel compared to other models. With sound quality that provides good detail and punchy bass, along with a long battery life of up to 65 hours, these headphones are ideal for users seeking a balance of performance and affordability. The Live 670NC version features better ear pads and additional features like Ambient Aware mode and TalkThru mode for enhanced functionality.
Creative’s Sound Blaster Jam V2 on-ear headphones offer a retro look with modern upgrades, including Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C charging, and improved call quality. With a lightweight and comfortable design, these headphones provide balanced sound with good detail and bass. The Jam V2 is suitable for remote learning or everyday use, with a battery life of up to 22 hours and physical buttons for easy control. While lacking a carry pouch, the headphones include an extra set of foam ear pads for added convenience.
Sennheiser’s HD 250BT on-ear wireless headphones offer an exciting sound profile with energetic bass and sparkle in the treble, suitable for users looking for a more dynamic listening experience. While priced at $70, the headphone has a more budget-friendly build quality but is comfortable for extended wear. With 25-hour battery life, support for AAC and aptX audio codecs, and customizable sound options through the Smart Control app, the HD 250BT provides a club-like sound experience for users on a tighter budget.
