AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Studio Headphones Under $100 2026
The top pick is AKG K240 Studio Headphones ($76). Superlux HD-681 gives you the most for the money at $26. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 26 models across 10 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 12, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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The AKG K-240 Studio is a solid workhorse for tracking, mixing, and critical listening on a budget. They provide a surprisingly accurate and revealing sound, especially considering the price point. Great for home studios, students, or anyone needing a reliable, comfortable pair of headphones without breaking the bank.
Pros
- XXL capsule delivers surprisingly wide and detailed soundstage
- Semi-open design offers a more natural, less isolating listening experience
- Detachable mini-XLR cable adds durability and reduces cable clutter
Cons
- Plastic headband and earcups feel a bit budget-oriented for serious studio work
- Semi-open design isn’t ideal for noise isolation in loud environments
70AudioFu
Index↓ 9.3%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$84 · Aug 14$76 now$76€68 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Audio-Technica ATH-M30x Closed Back Headphones
ATH-M30X · Audio-Technica
47 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The ATH-M30X are a solid entry-level studio headphone. They offer a surprisingly clean and accurate sound for the price, making them great for budding producers, podcasters, or anyone needing reliable monitoring. The swivel design is a nice touch for mixing and tracking.
Pros
- Clear, balanced soundstage ideal for critical listening
- Durable construction with robust headband and earcups
- 90-degree swivel allows for comfortable monitoring and single-ear use
Cons
- Bass response can feel slightly lacking for bass-heavy genres
- Cable, while long, is not detachable, increasing risk of damage
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These Superlux HD-681s are a seriously impressive value for anyone needing a decent studio reference pair without spending a fortune. The clarity and detail you get are remarkable for their price point, making them ideal for budding producers, podcasters, or anyone needing a reliable, revealing closed-back option. Just be aware of the sound leakage – they're best for home or studio use.
Pros
- Surprisingly detailed sound for the price; revealing for critical listening.
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended use, even with the self-adjusting headband.
- 32 Ohm impedance makes them easily driven by phones, laptops, and basic interfaces.
Cons
- Semi-open design leaks sound, making them unsuitable for quiet environments.
- Plastic build feels budget-oriented; longevity a potential concern.
53AudioFu
Index↓ 8.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$28 · Aug 14$26 now$26€23 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
PreSonus HD7 Professional On-Ear Monitoring Headphones
HD7 · Presonus
26 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The HD7s are a surprisingly capable pair of headphones for budget-conscious producers and casual listeners. They offer a relatively flat frequency response with a pleasing emphasis on bass that doesn't overwhelm. If you need a solid, reliable pair for tracking, mixing, or just enjoying music without spending a fortune, these are a solid choice.
Pros
- Surprisingly balanced sound for the price point
- Neodymium drivers deliver tight, controlled low-end response
- Comfortable circumaural design for extended listening sessions
Cons
- Plastic build feels a bit flimsy compared to higher-end options
- Half-open design leaks sound, not ideal for quiet environments
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PreSonus HD9 Professional Closed-Back Over-Ear Monitoring Headphones
HD9 · Presonus
21 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The Presonus HD9s are a solid budget choice for anyone needing reliable studio monitoring. They offer a decent, balanced sound with a surprisingly present low-end – great for tracking vocals or bass without needing to bleed into another mic. If you're on a tight budget and need a workhorse pair of headphones for basic mixing and tracking, these are worth a look.
Pros
- Closed-back design provides excellent isolation for critical tracking and mixing.
- 45mm drivers deliver surprisingly robust low-end response for the price point.
- Rotating earcup design enhances comfort during long mixing sessions.
Cons
- Build quality feels plasticky; not a premium, durable construction.
- Soundstage is somewhat limited; not ideal for immersive listening.
50AudioFu
Index↓ 3.4%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$66 · Aug 14$64 now$64€57 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
These Superlux HD-662 Evo's are an absolute steal for budget-conscious musicians and home recordists. They deliver a surprisingly clear and revealing soundstage for their price point, making them ideal for tracking and basic mixing – just be mindful of the slightly uneven bass. If you need a reliable, comfortable pair of headphones without emptying your wallet, these are a great starting point.
Pros
- Surprisingly detailed sound for the price, revealing subtle nuances
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended mixing sessions
- Detachable cables offer convenience and protect against damage
Cons
- Plastic build feels a bit flimsy, lacks premium robustness
- Bass response can be slightly uneven, requiring EQ adjustments
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These Superlux HD-669s are a surprisingly capable option for musicians needing a reliable stage monitor or budget-friendly studio headphone. They offer a decent frequency response and comfortable fit, making them ideal for drummers, keyboardists, or anyone needing to hear a clear mix onstage without external distractions. Just don’t expect audiophile-grade sound.
Pros
- Excellent value, delivering surprising clarity for the price.
- Neodymium drivers provide a tight, controlled bass response.
- Detachable cables offer convenience and potential for upgrades.
Cons
- Plastic build feels budget-oriented; longevity is a question.
- Soundstage is somewhat narrow, lacking spaciousness for critical mixing.
45AudioFu
Index↓ 24.2%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$37 · Aug 14$28 now$28€25 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
These Superlux HD-660 Pros are a phenomenal value if you need a closed-back headphone for tracking, casual listening, or just want to experience a wider soundstage on a budget. They’re a great option for musicians needing isolation in the studio or anyone wanting a surprising amount of detail without a premium-priced investment – just be aware of the build quality limitations.
Pros
- Surprisingly detailed soundstage for the price; reveals nuances in recordings.
- Robust clamping force ensures a secure, comfortable fit during extended use.
- 150 Ohm impedance offers more headroom and control with higher-powered amps.
Cons
- Plastic build feels noticeably cheap, impacting long-term durability.
- Bass response can be slightly uneven, lacking tight low-end definition.
45AudioFu
Index↓ 7.7%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$44 · Aug 14$40 now$40€36 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
These Superlux HD-668 Bs are a remarkable value – seriously impressive detail for the money. They're perfect for budget-conscious producers, audio students, or anyone needing a neutral reference for critical listening. Just be aware they're not a bass-heavy experience, and the open design isn’t for silent environments.
Pros
- Excellent detail retrieval for the price point, revealing subtle nuances.
- Surprisingly wide soundstage for a closed-back design, creating a more immersive experience.
- Comfortable for extended listening sessions thanks to the self-adjusting headband.
Cons
- Build quality feels plasticky, especially around the headband adjustment.
- Semi-open design leaks sound, not ideal for quiet environments.
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These Superlux HD-330 Pros are a crazy good value for tracking, casual listening, and even basic mixing. The semi-open design avoids that claustrophobic feeling, and they're comfortable enough to wear for hours. They won't replace high-end reference headphones, but for the price, they’re hard to beat for budget-conscious musicians and producers.
Pros
- Surprisingly detailed sound for the price point; reveals nuances in recordings.
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended tracking or mixing sessions.
- Semi-open design provides a wider, more natural soundstage than closed-backs.
Cons
- Build quality feels plasticky; headband adjustment feels somewhat fragile.
- Bass response can be a little uneven, lacking a truly impactful low-end.
All 26 studio headphones
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
OneOdio Monitor 80OneOdio40↓ 13.3%$95€85$95€85Check ↗
- 12
Behringer HPM1100-BKBehringer39↓ 21.7%$10€9$10€9Check ↗
- 13
Superlux HD-667Superlux37Stable$44€39$44€39Check ↗
- 14
Superlux HD-665Superlux37Stable$62€55$62€55Check ↗
- 15
OneOdio Monitor 40OneOdio35↓ 3.9%$55€49$55€49Check ↗
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OneOdio Pro 20 BlackOneOdio34Stable$44€39$44€39Check ↗
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OneOdio Pro 40 SilverOneOdio34Stable$50€45$50€45Check ↗
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OneOdio Pro 60OneOdio34Stable$55€49$55€49Check ↗
- 19
OneOdio Monitor 60OneOdio33↑ 1.5%$77€69$77€69Check ↗
- 20
Behringer HPS3000Behringer32Stable$11€10$11€10Check ↗
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Behringer BH 470Behringer32↓ 1.0%$22€20$22€20Check ↗
- 22
the t.bone HD 515the t.bone31Stable$33€29$33€29Check ↗
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the t.bone HD 815the t.bone31Stable$36€32$36€32Check ↗
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Maono MH601 Studio Monitor HeadphoneMaono30Stable$39€35$39€35Check ↗
- 25
ESI eXtra 10ESI30Stable$58€52$58€52Check ↗
- 26
Tascam TH-11Tascam24↑ 11.4%$55€49$55€49Check ↗
Studio Headphones by the numbers
Measured across all 38 models we track, not a sample.
Median $40 — half of all studio headphones here cost less.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 38 studio headphones from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What should I look for when buying studio headphones?
Key factors include build quality, sound characteristics, playability, brand reputation, warranty coverage, and value for money. Consider your musical style, skill level, and intended use to find the best match.
How much should I spend on studio headphones?
Budget depends on your needs and experience level. Beginners can find quality options for $200-500, intermediate players should consider $500-1500 range, while professionals often invest $1500+ for premium features.
Are expensive studio headphones worth the investment?
Higher-priced studio headphones typically offer better materials, craftsmanship, and performance. They're worth it if you're serious about music, perform regularly, or need professional-grade features.
What are the best brands for studio headphones?
Top brands combine quality, innovation, and reliability. We evaluate brands based on build quality, sound performance, durability, and customer satisfaction to recommend the best options for different budgets.
Should I buy studio headphones online or in-store?
Both have advantages. Online offers better prices and selection, while stores allow hands-on testing. We recommend researching online first, then testing in stores if possible. Many online retailers offer excellent return policies.





