There
are probably a select few who can entertain the possibility of buying
the $55,000 Sennheiser Orpheus headphones suggested as a holiday gift by
Gwyneth Paltrow's lifestyle website, Goop.
But for the rest of us who lack that kind of extra cash—or
mind-set—particularly around the holidays, there are thankfully other
options.
In
fact, we've compiled a list of five great but affordable portable
headphones that will suit just about any kind of activity, from jogging
or hiking to just lounging around the house. You might even decide to
wear them while contemplating how you might spend the $54,900 you just
saved ignoring Goop's recommendation.
AKG by Harman Y23 ($40)
These in-ear AKG headphones
are pretty barebones when it comes to extras. For instance, they lack
volume or other function controls. But they deliver where it matters
most: very good sound quality. They’re also very lightweight, so they
won’t bog you down if you’re exercising. And like many in-ear models,
the ear-insert design muffles many external noises and sounds.
Philips ActionFit Sport SHQ2305 ($40)
If you're an active, outdoors type, consider a set of headphones with a more rugged design. This model
claims to be sweat and moisture proof, which makes them well suited for
strenuous workouts or for hiking or biking in rainy weather. But its
weather-resistant design doesn't come at the cost of its audio
performance—this model provides very good overall sound.
Skullcandy Strum ($50)
If you like your headphones to have a cool, edgy design, this model
might fit the bill. Each earbud is adorned with a tiny skull logo. But
it’s not just about looks: It has very good sound quality. It even comes
with a carrying case, so your headphones won’t get tangled up with your
other gear.
Motorola Moto Surround ($80)
Our headphones Ratings show that wireless headphones are typically pricier than those without this feature. But this pair from Motorola,
which delivers very good sound quality, will likely fit into many
budgets. A distinctive feature of this wireless Bluetooth model is its
contoured collar, which wraps around the back of the neck. Motorola says
the band, which includes all the controls for functions such as
changing audio tracks and adjusting volume, is constructed to resist
movement. When not in use, the earphones can magnetically attach to the
band.
Phiaton BT 100 NC ($100)
If
you crave quiet in the midst of a noisy environment or while traveling
on a plane or train, noise-canceling headphones can provide the peace
and serenity you seek. Most, however, tend to be pretty pricey. This wireless model,
by Phiaton, breaks that trend, while adding wireless Bluetooth
capability. The BT 100 NC combines active noise-cancellation with a
passive in-ear design to provide decent noise reduction, along with very
good overall sound quality.
