The excitement of Black Friday can be both exhilarating and overwhelming, especially when you’re on the hunt for the perfect pair of headphones. It’s no surprise that this day has become synonymous with unbeatable deals, but why exactly is Black Friday the go-to moment to upgrade your headphone game?
For many, the appeal goes beyond just saving a few bucks—Black Friday represents an opportunity to finally experience premium sound quality, advanced features, and a more immersive listening experience without breaking the bank. Whether you’ve been eyeing high-end noise-canceling over-ear headphones or sleek true wireless earbuds, this unofficial holiday offers incredible markdowns that simply aren’t available at any other time of the year.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
I hear you—shopping during Black Friday can feel a little intimidating. With a flood of advertisements and endless options, it’s easy to feel unsure about what’s truly a good value. But take a deep breath: the reality is that this day offers some of the most substantial discounts across all price ranges, from high-end luxury brands to everyday essentials, making it an exhilarating opportunity to upgrade your current setup (or snag your first serious pair) without stretching your wallet too thin.
- If you’re longing for a new headphone model with industry-leading noise cancellation but have hesitated because of the steep price tag, Black Friday will likely provide the discount you’ve been waiting for, often trimming as much as 0 or even more off premium models.
- For those sticking to a budget but still wanting quality, this is the time when even mid-range and budget-tier headphones from reputable brands get tempting markdowns, putting them well within reach.
Moreover, retailers prepare for Black Friday with a strategy of offering limited-time deals that create a sense of urgency but also a genuine opportunity to grab hard-to-beat prices. It’s why shoppers flock by the millions—there’s a real possibility of snagging that Sony WH-1000XM5 for far less than you’d typically pay, or finally getting Sennheiser’s signature crystal-clear sound without emptying your wallet.
Looking deeper into it, the deals aren’t just about offloading older stock. Many brands use Black Friday to launch enticing discounts on the latest releases, allowing you to jump on new technologies with a nice discount days—if not months—after launch. If you’ve been eyeing headphones equipped with the latest Bluetooth codecs or low-latency gaming modes, this is your chance to finally nab what you want.
Another reason to shop Black Friday for headphones? It’s a safe bet that manufacturers build special partnerships with top retailers to ensure prices are as low as possible. Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and others all tend to compete fiercely between themselves, leading to flash sales and price-matching strategies that can push prices down even more.
It’s not just about getting what you want—it’s about getting it at a price that genuinely feels fulfilling. There’s something deeply satisfying in nailing down a high-quality product in your cart for a fraction of the price, especially when it’s something as central to your daily habits as sound. Music lovers know the value of good sound, but perhaps you’ve hesitated in the past due to the hesitation that often comes with luxury price tags.
Black Friday is your chance to skip that hesitation. It’s your opportunity, whether you’re ready to elevate your audiobook experience, drown out cabin noise on long-haul flights, or simply enjoy your favorite playlists with crystal-clear depth. It’s ok to treat yourself—you’re not just saving money, you’re doing it intentionally and thoughtfully for something that will keep giving you joy long after the holidays are over.
If you’ve been drooling over industry-leading headphones but have balked at the price tags, here’s the good news: Black Friday brings deep cuts on premium models without forcing you into buyer’s remorse. These are the deals that experts—and savvy shoppers—wait for all year. After all, it’s not every day you can get the same level of performance from top-tier brands like Sony, Bose, or Sennheiser without paying full price.
Ready to treat yourself to the best of the best? Here are some standout deals I’ve noticed this season. You’ll want to act quickly because once these are gone, the regret of missing out will linger far longer than your current pair of old, tired headphones.
- Sony WH-1000XM4 — Often considered the gold standard for over-ear, noise-canceling headphones, the Sony WH-1000XM4 is regularly hailed as the “ultimate” pair for audiophiles and frequent travelers. Black Friday has slashed the price from 9 to around 8, making this a must-grab if you’re craving superior sound and excellent noise cancellation.
- Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) — Apple users, rejoice! Whether you’re plugged into the Apple ecosystem or just want some of the most seamless and user-friendly wireless earbuds around, this deal is hard to overlook. Originally priced at 9, you can snag the AirPods Pro for just 9 this Black Friday—a savings worth celebrating. Picture yourself taking calls, tuning into podcasts, or catching every beat in your favorite playlist with unparalleled clarity.
- Bose QuietComfort 45 — If Bose is your go-to for comfort and legendary noise cancellation, now is a rare moment to secure the QuietComfort 45 for 9 instead of 9. Sure, it’s only off, but for anyone who has worn these plush cans on a plane or in a busy office, it’s a small price to pay for pure sound bliss. Practical, stylish, and industry-leading—they’re a gift to your ears, and a splurge you won’t feel bad about.
- Sennheiser Momentum 4 — Sennheiser’s reputation for crystal-clear, refined sound reaches new heights with the Momentum 4 headphones. With 60 hours of battery life and robust noise-canceling capabilities, they’re a dream come true for anyone who values rich, immersive sound on the go. This Black Friday, they’re on sale for 3 (down from 9), and that’s a deal any discerning music lover can appreciate.
- Beats Studio Pro — Maybe you’re all about that bass. Maybe you just want stunning, fashionable head-turners that deliver solid sound. Beats Studio Pro offers both beauty and brawn, and this Black Friday, you’re looking at discounts that can push prices down by up to 0. Don’t sleep on this; the Beats Studio Pro for 9 is simply a no-brainer.
Let’s face it, when it comes to premium headphone deals, these prices are as good as they get—possibly for the rest of the year. Whether for gifting (or let’s just be honest, treating yourself) these discounts on premium models promise an elevated listening experience without stretching your budget too far.
If you’ve been waiting for that perfect moment to dive into the luxe sound quality world, Black Friday is presenting your chance on a silver platter. Pair that with warranties, top-tier customer support, and the comfort that you’re buying from reputable retailers, and it’s hard to see a downside. But take my advice: don’t wait for too long to decide. These deals—and these headphones—will fly off the (virtual and physical) shelves faster than you can say “add to cart.”
Let’s be real—sometimes you know you’re not in the market for those sky-high priced headphone models, and that’s perfectly okay. In fact, Black Friday often delivers some of the *best* budget-friendly options without requiring you to sacrifice sound quality or feature-rich designs. This is especially true if you’re someone who wants great performance on a budget—you’re in luck, because this is really where Black Friday shines.
Trust me, you don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars to enjoy solid sound quality, and I completely understand if that’s been a concern holding you back in the past. But worry not—there are fantastic deals waiting for music lovers who are ready to upgrade without shelling out premium prices.
Maybe you’re shopping for your teenager who goes through headphones like socks, or perhaps you’re just looking for a solid pair to toss into your gym bag. You might even want a reliable set of earbuds for those Zoom meetings or long walks where you want to tune into your favorite podcast. Whatever your use case, there’s a perfect match out there that’s as kind to your wallet as it is to your ears this Black Friday.
Here are the best budget-friendly deals out there right now—no compromise on quality, just tons of value:
- Jabra Elite 85t — These in-ear wonders are an excellent deal at 9 (down from 9). The Elite 85t feature adjustable noise cancellation, great sound, and a comfortable fit for long listening sessions. Perfect for anyone who wants flexibility between being fully immersed in sound or needing to stay aware of their surroundings.
- Anker Soundcore Life Q35 — At (from 0), the Soundcore Life Q35 offers fantastic noise-cancelling abilities for a pair of headphones in this price range. With a 40-hour battery life and features like Hi-Res Audio and EQ customization through their app, this model is almost too good to pass up.
- Skullcandy Venue — Priced at just from 9, these headphones provide decent active noise cancellation and a solid 24-hour battery life. If you’re looking for a basic but dependable over-ear noise-canceling option, the Skullcandy Venue delivers without draining your bank account.
- Tribit QuietPlus 50 — If you thought over-ear headphones under couldn’t be good, Tribit is here to surprise you. These headphones are on sale for (originally ) and come with active noise canceling, decent bass, and 30 hours of battery life. They’re perfect for anyone wanting to step up from basic earbuds but still keep it incredibly affordable.
- Samsung Galaxy Buds2 — A steal at (down from 9), these wireless earbuds are a great option for anyone with a Samsung device or for those wanting something budget-friendly but reliable. With active noise cancellation, wireless charging, and good sound quality, they’re a worthy contender in the sub-0 range.
I know what you’re thinking—can budget headphones really deliver? And to be honest, I totally understand where the skepticism might come from. But rest assured, with today’s tech advancements, many affordable options punch well above their price point, providing fantastic sound, build quality, and even extra features like noise cancellation and good battery life.
It’s all about striking the right balance between your needs and your budget. And with these deals, that balance doesn’t seem so elusive anymore. Black Friday is ultimately about getting the best value for your money, and in this case, “budget” doesn’t mean “basic”—it just means smart. So if you’re looking to maximize your dollars without compromising too much, now’s the time. Who knows, that affordable pair might just surprise you with what they’re capable of.
Don’t let the fear of missing out on premium models keep you from making a smart purchase. With these budget-friendly finds, you can still enjoy crisp sound, comfortable listening, and cool features like wireless convenience—all at a fraction of the cost. There’s no need for hesitation—secure these deals now, and know that you made a decision that’s both kind to your ears and your wallet.
Now that you know Black Friday is a treasure trove of deals, it’s time to streamline your strategy. Let’s face it—slashing prices and buzzing notifications can easily throw off your game plan. That sense of excitement can quickly morph into feeling overwhelmed, which I completely understand. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back. Here’s how you can make sure you leave this shopping event feeling accomplished and without any post-purchase regrets.
### 1. Make a Wishlist—And Stick to It
It might sound overly simplistic, but heading into Black Friday with a clear vision of what you want (and need) can keep you from getting swept up in deals that seem too good to pass up but don’t really serve you. Create a shortlist of features and brands you’re interested in. Are you looking for noise cancellation for travel, comfort for hours of use, or perhaps something specifically fitting your budget?
This intentional approach prevents decision fatigue—a very real thing when you’re scrolling through deal after deal. Plus, it helps you maintain that satisfying feeling of grabbing exactly what you set out for without getting sidetracked by flashy ads for things you don’t really need.
### 2. Compare Prices Before Black Friday
I get it—there’s something thrilling about the countdown to midnight when Black Friday starts. But here’s a pro tip: Do your homework in advance! Review the current prices for the headphones on your radar a week or so before the sales begin. That way, when a deal pops up, you’ll know if it’s truly a steal or just a minor markdown dressed up in a big, flashy percentage discount.
Trust me, not all deals are created equal, and it’s always better to go in armed with knowledge than to be swept away by the idea of saving 10% when better deals might be on the horizon.
### 3. Sign Up for Retailer and Brand Newsletters
This one’s a little sneaky, but effective. Many retailers and headphone brands will drop early access deals or notify subscribers before opening up sales to the masses. Consider this your VIP pass to snagging the best prices before stock runs dry.
Not sure where to start? Sign up for newsletters from places like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and specialized audio brands like Sony, Bose, or Jabra. The emails can often contain exclusive or “members-only” discounts that aren’t posted widely on their sites. Some even offer additional percentages off as a thank-you for signing up.
### 4. Set Price Alerts
Another way to stay ahead of the game is by setting price alerts through apps or browser extensions like Honey, Keepa, or CamelCamelCamel that track discount patterns and drop notifications directly to you. If the price of the headphones you want finally hits that sweet spot, you’ll be the first to know.
Alerts take the hassle out of obsessive deal-refreshing, so you can focus on enjoying your Thanksgiving weekend instead of being glued to the screen in anticipation.
### 5. Create Accounts on Major Retailer Sites in Advance
We’ve all been there. You find an amazing deal, feverishly add it to your cart, and then get tripped up entering your shipping address, payment info, and choosing a delivery method. By the time you hit “checkout,” the item is *gone.*
Avoid this headache by creating accounts on your go-to shopping platforms in advance. Ensure your shipping and payment information is saved and ready to go. This little bit of preparation could be the deciding factor between landing that amazing pair of headphones or seeing “Out of Stock” flash before your eyes.
### 6. Stack Deals When Possible
No one’s going to judge you for going full coupon ninja—especially when it leads to bigger savings! Many retailers allow you to stack discounts on top of the already-great Black Friday prices. Be on the lookout for extra savings codes for things like free shipping, cashback opportunities, or credit card-specific offers.
Certain retailers may also offer perks for using their mobile app vs. their desktop site. It may take a little effort, but you’ll feel invincible when you see that final total slashed even further.
### 7. Don’t Forget About Return Policies
Look, even with the best research and planning, the “perfect” headphone deal might not always work out in practice. Maybe the fit isn’t right for you, or the sound profile isn’t quite what you expected. That’s why it’s crucial to ensure that whatever you buy comes with a generous return policy.
Double-check whether returns, especially for heavily-discounted items, are allowed. Some retailers might tweak their policies for Black Friday sales, so knowing the return window and any possible restocking fees can save you a nasty surprise later. Many stores even extend their returns window through January, making holiday shopping a little less risky.
### 8. Act Fast
This can’t be stressed enough—Black Friday deals go fast, particularly for highly-sought products like premium headphones. If you’ve found the deal you want and feel confident, hit that “buy” button. Waiting for a better price could mean missing out altogether. Remember: many retailers offer price matching, so if the price drops further after your purchase, you can still get the lower price.
It can be tempting to linger, but if that pair of headphones you’ve been eyeing has a price cut you’re happy with—take action swiftly. In Black Friday sales, hesitation often leads to missed opportunities.
### 9. Don’t Forget Cyber Monday
If you didn’t find what you were looking for on Black Friday, don’t fret! Cyber Monday (the Monday after Thanksgiving) has quickly turned into another major shopping day, often with equally big, if not better, discounts. Keep your eyes peeled for additional opportunities, particularly if you’re into shopping online over braving the in-store crowds.
### 10. Trust the Reviews
Finally, don’t let the excitement of a great discount override the value of real reviews. Before pulling the trigger on a deal, quickly check expert reviews and user feedback. Make sure the headphones you’re eyeing will deliver what you want—be it noise cancellation, comfort, or rich sound quality.
There’s nothing wrong with a deal-padding wishlist but don’t let the allure of a great discount make you forget what really matters: that you’ll love the product you’re buying! So, before you complete your purchase, take one last glance at those reviews from trusted sites and real customers.
With these insider tips, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate Black Friday like a pro and walk away with the headphones that will make your life a little more musical, without draining your wallet. Happy shopping!
I totally get it—whether you’re a seasoned Black Friday shopper or this is your first time, headphones can feel like a bit of a minefield thanks to the endless feature lists and brand options. You might even find yourself wondering: “Are these features really worth paying for?” or “Will these headphones even suit my needs?” Fortunately, you’re not alone in these questions. Below, I’ve gathered the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions on headphone shopping, especially during Black Friday sales.
- Do I really need noise-canceling headphones?
- What’s the difference between active and passive noise-canceling?
- How important is battery life in wireless headphones?
- Do I need to buy headphones based on which phone I have?
- Are wired headphones still worth it?
- Should I trust new brands offering big Black Friday discounts?
- What if the headphones I bought don’t fit me well?
- Are refurbished or “renewed” headphones a good buy?
- What should I look for in budget headphones?
Noise-canceling headphones aren’t just hype—they can truly transform your life if you need to focus in noisy environments or if you travel frequently. The calm they bring on a loud commute, an airplane, or even in bustling cafes is often cited as a major reason why people love them. If you spend a lot of time in noisy settings and want uninterrupted sound, they’re well worth the investment—and many deals make them more affordable this Black Friday.
Great question! Active noise cancellation (ANC) uses microphones and speakers to reduce background noise by “canceling” it out with opposing sound waves. It’s highly effective, especially in environments with consistent noise like airplane engines or office chatter. Passive noise cancellation, on the other hand, refers to the physical blocking of sound, like the seal created by over-ear or in-ear headphones. ANC headphones tend to be pricier, but Black Friday deals can make them much more accessible.
If you plan on using your headphones frequently throughout the day—for work calls, workouts, or casual listening—long battery life is key. For example, over-ear wireless headphones often offer 20+ hours of battery life, while in-ear options may deliver anywhere from 5 to 10 hours on a single charge. If you’re constantly on the go, pay attention to models that come with a quick-charge feature, giving you several hours of use from just a brief charging session. Luckily, deals abound for all types of wireless headphones during Black Friday, ensuring you get great battery life at a discounted price.
Not necessarily, but buying headphones that are optimized for your phone ecosystem can enhance your experience. For instance, Apple AirPods Pro connect seamlessly to iPhones with beginner-friendly ease, while Samsung Galaxy Buds integrate effortlessly with Android devices. That said, many Bluetooth headphones work across different platforms, so if you’re not looking for deep integration or specific features (like Siri or Bixby), you can pick any pair that suits your preferences. Black Friday will likely offer discounts on both brand-specific and cross-platform headphones.
Wired headphones might feel like they’re going out of style, but for audiophiles or anyone who values the highest possible sound fidelity, they’re still a strong option. They tend to deliver purer audio without the need for Bluetooth compression. If sound quality is your top priority and lag isn’t an issue—especially when gaming or doing detailed audio work—wired headphones are still very much worth considering. Plus, Black Friday often sees drops in prices for even high-end wired models.
It’s tempting to jump on a deal from a brand that promises premium features at an ultra-low price, but caution is advised. Sometimes, lesser-known brands can deliver decent quality for the price when you’re shopping on a budget. Be sure to read reviews from both experts and everyday users to ensure that the headphones aren’t too good to be true. Some companies might slash prices just to offload subpar models, but if you do your research, you can still find solid gems at a bargain price.
Comfort is incredibly important when choosing headphones, especially if you plan to wear them for long periods of time. Look for brands that offer different ear tip sizes if you’re buying earbuds, and read reviews that discuss how the headphones feel when worn for extended sessions. But here’s the beauty of Black Friday shopping: most major retailers offer generous return policies, even on discounted items. Make sure you check the return policy details before purchasing, and rest easy knowing you can exchange them if the fit isn’t quite right.
Refurbished headphones can be a fantastic way to get quality audio products at a reduced price, but it’s essential to buy from reputable sellers with strong return policies. Many manufacturers, such as Apple or Bose, offer certified refurbishing programs that ensure the product is nearly indistinguishable from new. If you spot a significant discount on a trusted site, this could be a great way to save even more during Black Friday, while still getting high-end audio gear.
Budget headphones don’t have to mean “cheap” headphones. When looking at budget-friendly options, pay attention to reviews that discuss build quality, sound performance, and battery life. While you may not get the absolute top-tier features, many affordable models still offer decent sound and comfort. Black Friday is an excellent chance to find budget headphones that punch above their weight with features like decent audio clarity, reasonable battery life, and even some form of noise cancellation.
I hope these insights help clear up some of the uncertainties that come with headphone shopping, especially when those tantalizing Black Friday deals come into play. Remember, the most important thing is choosing a pair that fulfills *your* needs—whether it’s immersive sound, comfort, portability, or just the best value for your money. Here’s to you finding the perfect pair amidst those irresistible deals!
