Best headphones under $25

Top pick: JLab Go Air Pop true wireless earbuds. They're the safest all-rounder at this price — thousands of ratings, sound isolation that takes the edge off a commute, and a charging case that stretches total playtime past a full day of listening. No cable to snag, no fuss.

Who the others suit:

• Picun B8 over-ear — if you want headphones that sit around your ears rather than in them, with battery that lasts weeks between charges.
• Skullcandy Smokin' Buds XT — if you want a well-known brand and a punchier fit for workouts.
• Soundcore P20i — if you'd rather spend a little more for Anker's build quality and app controls.
• Sony MDR-ZX110 — if you want simple wired on-ears that never need charging.
• Panasonic RP-HT161-K — if you want full-size over-ear cups for desk or TV use.
• JLab JBuds Pro wired — if you want the cheapest reliable wired pair with a mic for calls.

At this price, expect basic sound and little isolation; skip anything with no ratings at all.