Best Used Headphones of 2025: Affordable and High-Quality

Finding the best used headphones can elevate your listening experience without draining your wallet. Imagine enjoying premium sound quality that brings your favorite music to life, diving into immersive gaming worlds with crystal-clear audio, or relying on a durable pair for work and travel, all while saving money. The right used headphones combine value, quality, and performance, making them a smart choice for any audiophile or casual user.

In this guide, we reveal the 10 best used headphones of 2025, selected to suit every budget, lifestyle, and preference. From high-performance noise-canceling options to budget-friendly hidden treasures, this list will guide you to your perfect match. Let’s explore the options!

Top 10 Best Used Headphones in 2025

Here’s a carefully curated list of the 10 Best Used Headphones in 2025, designed to meet a variety of needs, budgets, and styles, helping you choose the perfect pair:

Sony WH-1000XM4

The Sony WH-1000XM4 remains a top choice for those seeking advanced noise cancellation and superior sound quality.
What sets it apart:

• Advanced active noise cancellation technology.
• Support for LDAC for high-resolution audio.
• Multi-point Bluetooth connectivity.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra offers unmatched comfort and clarity, making it ideal for long listening sessions.
What it’s known for:

• Superior active noise cancellation.
• Plush ear cushions for maximum comfort.
• Support for voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant.

Apple AirPods Max (2nd Gen)

The Apple AirPods Max (2nd Gen) is perfect for Apple users who want seamless integration and premium audio.
What sets it apart:

• Exceptional audio quality with Apple-designed dynamic drivers.
• Spatial audio technology with dynamic head tracking.
• Seamless integration with Apple devices.

Sennheiser HD 58X Jubilee

The Sennheiser HD 58X Jubilee provides audiophile-grade sound with a natural listening experience.
What it’s known for:

• Open-back design for natural sound quality.
• High-quality drivers for detailed audio clarity.
• Detachable cable for easy replacement.

JBL Live 670NC

The JBL Live 670NC delivers rich sound with adaptive noise cancellation for a versatile listening experience.
What sets it apart:

• Adaptive noise cancellation for a personalized listening experience.
• Support for high-resolution audio.
• Lightweight and ergonomic design for extended wear.

Beats Studio Pro

The Beats Studio Pro combines powerful bass and sleek aesthetics for style-conscious users.
What it’s known for:

• Enhanced sound quality with balanced frequencies.
• Active noise cancellation technology.
• Stable and fast Bluetooth connectivity.

Audeze Maxwell

The Audeze Maxwell is tailored for gamers seeking immersive sound and reliable performance.
What sets it apart:

• Planar Magnetic drivers for a unique audio experience.
• Comfortable design for extended gaming sessions.
• Support for high-resolution audio playback.

Astro A10 Gen 2

The Astro A10 Gen 2 is a durable and comfortable choice for gamers on a budget.
What it’s known for:

• Detachable microphone with noise-canceling technology.
• Durable and comfortable design.
• Compatibility with multiple platforms, including PC and consoles.

Anker Soundcore Space One

The Anker Soundcore Space One offers advanced features in a portable and budget-friendly design.
What sets it apart:

• Advanced noise cancellation.
• High-quality sound drivers for excellent audio.
• Foldable design for easy portability.

Razer Kraken X Lite Wired

The Razer Kraken X Lite is an excellent entry-level option for gamers seeking lightweight comfort.
What it’s known for:

• Lightweight design for comfortable extended use.
• Flexible microphone with noise-canceling technology.
• Compatibility with PCs and gaming consoles.

What Features Should You Look for in the Best Used Headphones?

When shopping for the best used headphones, the features you prioritize will depend on your intended use. Here are the key factors to consider:

1. Audio Quality

• Frequency Range: Verify that the headphones still produce a balanced range (e.g., 20Hz-20kHz) to ensure good bass and treble.
• Driver Condition: Inspect for any damage or distortion in the drivers, as this affects sound quality.
• Sound Profile: Choose headphones with a profile that matches your preference (e.g., bass-heavy or neutral).

2. Noise Cancellation

• Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Check if the ANC feature works effectively in reducing ambient noise.
• Transparency Mode: Ensure that transparency mode, if available, functions properly for letting external sounds in.

3. Comfort and Design

• Padding: Examine the ear cushions and headband for wear and tear. Replacements may be needed for comfort.
• Fit: Test the fit to ensure it’s snug without being too tight. For in-ear models, check if all ear tip sizes are included.
• Weight: Confirm the headphones are lightweight and still comfortable for prolonged use.

4. Connectivity

• Wired Condition: Inspect wired headphones for frayed or damaged cables.
• Bluetooth Functionality: For wireless headphones, ensure they pair seamlessly and the connection remains stable.
• Supported Codecs: Check for compatibility with aptX, LDAC, or AAC for high-quality Bluetooth audio.

5. Battery Life

• Playback Time: Verify the remaining battery life on wireless models and ensure it aligns with your usage needs.
• Charging Port: Check if the charging port is functional and compatible with your cables.

6. Built-in Features

• Microphone: Test the microphone for clear audio in calls or gaming.
• Controls: Confirm that touch or button controls still work as intended for playback, volume, and noise cancellation.
• Voice Assistant Integration: Test compatibility with voice assistants like Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant.

7. Durability and Build Quality

• Materials: Look for signs of physical wear, such as cracks or loose components, and ensure materials are intact.
• Water/Sweat Resistance: If intended for workouts, check the IP rating and ensure it hasn’t been compromised.

8. Portability

• Foldable Design: Ensure folding mechanisms are still functional without loose hinges.
• Case Included: Confirm if the original carrying case or pouch is available and in good condition.

9. Price and Value

• Fair Pricing: Compare the price of the used headphones to the new model to ensure you’re getting a good deal.
• Condition vs. Value: Balance the condition of the headphones with the price to determine if they’re worth the investment.

Pros and Cons of Buying the Best Used Headphones

When deciding to purchase the best used headphones, it’s important to evaluate the advantages and potential drawbacks to ensure you’re making the right choice.

Pros of Buying the Best Used Headphones

1. Cost Savings: The best used headphones are significantly cheaper than brand-new models, making high-quality audio accessible on a budget.
2. Tested for Functionality: Reputable sellers often inspect and test the best used headphones to ensure they work flawlessly.
3. Eco-Friendly Choice: Opting for used headphones helps reduce electronic waste and supports a sustainable lifestyle.
4. Access to High-End Models: Buying used or refurbished allows you to afford premium models of the best headphones at a fraction of the price.
5. Immediate Availability: Unlike waiting for new releases, the best used headphones are often readily available in the market.

Cons of Buying the Best Used Headphones

1. Shorter Warranty: While the best used headphones may come with a warranty, it’s often shorter than what’s offered with new models.
2. Potential Cosmetic Flaws: Even the best used headphones might have minor scratches, dents, or visible signs of prior use.
3. Unknown History: With used headphones, it’s sometimes unclear how they were handled or repaired unless purchased from a trusted seller.
4. Missing Accessories: Some used headphones might lack original accessories like carrying cases, cables, or spare ear tips.

After reviewing the Top 10 Best Used Headphones of 2025, it’s evident that top-notch audio quality and affordability can go hand in hand. From high-performance models to budget-friendly picks, there’s a pair of headphones for every lifestyle and need.

At Soum, we’re dedicated to providing the best used headphones, each thoroughly inspected and tested for quality and performance. We stand out with flexible payment options, fast delivery, and a customer-first approach. Plus, all our used headphones come with a warranty of up to one full year, giving you peace of mind with every purchase. Your perfect pair is just a click away!