Best Running Headphones Under 100

The best running headphones under 100 dollars or pounds can be difficult to find if you don't know how much to spend and what features to look out for.

Fortunately, we've put together a list of our top budget picks using price, user reviews, and any unique features that make these devices stand out from the crowd to inform our selection and kick off your search in the best way possible.

We've taken into account both wired and wireless sets to suit a variety of preferences, as well as earbuds and over-ear headphones for different running experiences.

So whether you're after some wireless earbuds, like these Beats Studio Buds, or you're simply after some of the best running headphones around, like these adidas RPD-01s, then we've got you covered.

We've also answered some of the most common questions regarding headphones to help you choose the right set for you and your training. So, without further delays, here's our list of the best running headphones under 100 available now...

Best running headphones under 100

1. Anker Soundcore Liberty Air 2 Pro - best wireless earbuds
2. Beats Studio Buds - a great choice with noise-cancelling
3. TREBLAB Z2 - best over-ear headphones
4. Koss FitClips KSC32i B - a top wired choice
5. adidas RPD-01 - best option for battery life
6. Mu6 Ring - an excellent bone conduction set

Credit: Anker

1. Anker Soundcore Liberty Air 2 Pro

Best wireless running headphones under 100

These Soundcore earbuds look to be a great pick for running thanks to their lightweight design and 7-hour battery life, helping you stay entertained regardless of how long you train.

In terms of sound quality, they come with targetted active noise cancellation plus PureNote technology which, Anker boasts, delivers a 45% boost to the bass and a 30% wider frequency bandwidth for added clarity across a wider range of sound.

Also, these earbuds feature LDAC which, compared to Bluetooth, is said to be capable of transmitting 3 times more data to make sure no detail in sound is lost when passing to your ears.

On the whole, we feel Anker's earbuds are well worth considering if you're looking for a relatively inexpensive pair of wireless headphones.

• Read More: Best running shoes

2. Beats Studio Buds

Best noise-cancelling running headphones under 100

The Beats Studio Buds look like they come packed with technology suitable for working out.

For instance, we feel one of their biggest positives is their active noise cancellation technology which should minimise background noise so you can remain focused on your run.

However, if you're looking to remain alert to your surroundings, then these earbuds also come with a Transparency mode which uses external-facing microphones to mix in the sounds around you to help you keep on top of what's going on away from your music.

It's also worth noting that these earbuds are sweat-resistant so, no matter how hard you're working, these headphones should stay working even if covered in sweat. As owners of the Studio Buds, we feel it's hard to look past them if you're looking for a pair of wireless noise-cancelling headphones for running.

• Read More: Best running watches

Credit: TREBLAB

3. TREBLAB Z2

Best over-ear running headphones under 100

If you prefer to wear over-ear headphones while running, then this TREBLAB Z2 set could be for you.

These wireless headphones are IPX4 water-resistant and sweatproof, so should be more than capable of withstanding even your most intense sprint sets or long-distance jogs.

Moreover, encased in the cushioned ear cups, you get active noise cancellation technology which will likely help you concentrate on your breathing whilst training to maximise your performance.

It's also worth mentioning they come with a 35-hour battery life, so you can train on multiple days consecutively on a single charge - a great option to have if you're a keen runner, therefore making them well worth considering.

• Read More: Best Fitbits

Credit: Koss

4. Koss FitClips KSC32i B

Best wired running headphones under 100

Koss boasts its FitClips are optimally designed for comfort whilst you exercise, giving you the choice of three differently sized ear cushions to suit your preference.

Furthermore, the over-ear clips are designed to, not only be extra soft, but also ensure the music never stops during your run.

Again, these headphones are water-resistant and feature an in-line, one-touch mic so you can send voice notes, set reminders, or call your friends and family away or even during your workouts.

Ultimately, if you're after a relatively inexpensive set of wired headphones to use whilst exercising, then we think these FitClips could be your answer.

• Read More: Best marathon shoes

Credit: adidas

5. adidas RPD-01

Best running headphones under 100 for battery life

The adidas RPD-01 running headphones offer a multitude of appealing features, with one standout attribute being their remarkable 12-hour battery life. This extended battery capacity ensures that you can power through an entire week's worth of workouts on a single charge.

Furthermore, these headphones are equipped with a stabilising strap that is specifically engineered to keep them securely in place during use. This not only enhances your comfort but also reduces the risk of losing them if they accidentally dislodge during your exercise routine.

What sets these headphones apart is the conveniently integrated playback control buttons within the strap. This addition allows you to effortlessly manage your music on the fly while you're on the move, making them an excellent companion for your workouts.

In addition to these features, it's important to highlight their IPX4-rated water resistance. This certification means that these headphones are well-prepared to endure the challenges of running and strenuous workouts, providing you with a reliable option to consider for all your fitness needs.

• Read More: Best running shoes under 100

Credit: Mu6

6. Mu6 Ring

Best open-ear running headphones under 100

The Mu6 Ring is a unique headphone set as it positions small speakers just in front of your ears, therefore keeping your ear canals free so you can continue to hear the world around you.

This is similar to a pair of the best bone-conduction headphones; however, simply having a small set of speakers stops you from feeling any kind of tickling sensation through the vibrations of a bone-conduction set.

It's also worth noting that these headphones are incredibly lightweight as well, which should help improve the levels of comfort whilst exercising.

Overall, these unique running headphones look to be an excellent pick if you're looking to stay in tune with the world as you exercise but don't want to break the bank. However, if you can extend your budget a little further, we'd recommend you consider the H2O Audio TRI PRO Multi-Sport Headphones instead, an open-ear set we praised highly in our review here.

• Read More: Best running watches under 100

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

With so many different brands and styles to choose from, you probably have a few queries about running headphones, but we're here to clear up some of the most common questions.

Are running headphones worth it?

Running headphones can significantly enhance the running experience for many individuals, offering a multitude of advantages to keep you going that extra mile.

Firstly, headphones can infuse your runs with an extra layer of enjoyment and motivation by enabling you to listen to music, audiobooks, or podcasts while you engage in your exercise routine. This auditory companionship can help maintain your focus, keeping you engaged throughout your workout, and may even provide the push you need to hit a personal best.

Secondly, running headphones are often engineered to stay securely in place during the most intense physical activities, which is particularly vital for runners. A considerable number of these headphones are also sweat-resistant and incorporate secure ear hooks or other mechanisms that prevent them from dislodging while you're in motion.

Naturally, the value of running headphones ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. Some runners may prefer the tranquillity of running without headphones, while others may deem them indispensable for achieving an enjoyable and effective workout.

Are wireless headphones easy to connect to?

Wireless headphones typically utilise Bluetooth connectivity and can be paired with devices such as smartphones through the settings menu.

However, it is important to consider that not all headphones are universally compatible with every device. To avoid any potential disappointment after purchasing, we recommend you carefully review the product description to ensure the connectivity capabilities of the headphones and ensure they can be paired to your specific device.

You can typically find this information in the specifications section of the manufacturer's website when researching the headphones.

How long do wireless headphones take to charge?

This varies depending on several factors, including the model of the headphones in question, the battery capacity, and the charging method. However, in general, we'd say most wireless headphones require a couple of hours to fully charge.

Many wireless headphones come with a USB cable for charging, and they can be connected to a power source such as a computer, wall adapter, or power bank. The charging time may be shorter if you use a wall adapter with a higher output power, although this will vary from set to set.

Ultimately, you'll need to consult the manufacturer's instructions, user manual, or product specifications to get accurate information about the charging time. Any of these will usually provide guidelines on charging duration and other important charging-related details specific to your device.

Do headphones stay on while running?

When it comes to running, it's important to have running headphones that are well-designed and provide a secure fit during exercise. If you're experiencing issues with your headphones constantly falling out, there are some useful tips to consider.

For instance, if you're using wired earbuds, you can try looping the cable over your ears to improve their stability. Another option is to use clothing accessories such as ear warmers or a hat to help hold the headphones in place.

Certain headphone models also feature loops that can be wrapped behind your neck, offering extra security and stability.

By implementing these tips, you can ensure that your running headphones stay firmly in position while you exercise.

Is it safe to run with headphones in?

Wearing headphones while running is perfectly acceptable since they can provide that extra source of entertainment you might need to keep going. However, there's an argument to be made for leaving them at home for your own safety.

Like using the phone whilst driving, headphones provide a distraction to your surroundings, which can make it tricky at times to keep on top of all the potential hazards around you.

Therefore, we'd perhaps argue against wearing headphones if you typically run down busy roads or congested pathways. However, you won't necessarily need to worry about this as much in quiet, open spaces.

That said, there are some headphones that come with special features to ensure you remain tuned in to your surroundings.

For instance, the Beats Studio Buds come with a Transparency mode that injects the sounds around you into your ears for a more natural listening experience.

You can also buy bone conduction or open-ear headphones, like these Mu6 Rings which leave your ears open to help you pay attention to your surroundings.