Update: Headphones for less than $25

(Credit: Griffin)

If you're going to get one accessory to go with your new MP3 player, make it a decent pair of headphones. This may seem counterintuitive when you consider that all such devices come with a pair of earbuds in the package, but trust us when we tell you this stock set isn't doing you any favors in the sound or comfort department.

The majority of MP3 players include a pair of hard, plastic earphones with subpar sonic capabilities. Of course, they get the job done, so we can understand not wanting to drop a grip of cash on a new set. That's why we've rounded up a handful of headphones that won't cost you a penny more than 25 bucks.

Every option included in this feature offers an upgrade in either fit or audio quality...or both. And if you loathe sticking 'buds in your ears, at least one choice will let you avoid that unpleasantness. Also take heed: many of the earphones come in more than one color option, so if you're not picky about hue, you may be able to save even more moolah.

Headphones for less than $25.

[MiggityMikeB]

Where are the Koss KSC75?

[jture]

Another KSC-75 fan here. Love them. Can't wear earbuds - won't stay in my ears - but the Koss clips are perfect.

[RTFM]

SkullCandy buds at Target for $16.99. 10 to 23khz response. Awesome bass and super sealing. The above buds are c-r-a-p compared to the SkullCandies. I've told my friends (yes I have more than one :-) that i'd refund their money if they are not really happy. Guess what? None have been disappointed. Oh yeah they have about a dozen colors to choose from.

[CHILLYWILLYSCOLD]

I AGREE!!! SKULLCANDY HEADPHONES AND EARPHONES ARE THE BEST!!!!

[doomsdaydave11]

SkullCandy are good for those who think overpowered bass is a sign of good quality. Other then that, their sound quality is subpar. Granted, they're a bit better then most stock headphones, but they still suck compared to even basic Sennheisers. I recommend the Sennheiser CX300's. Fantastic pair of headphones that are super comfortable, very inexpensive (can be found for as little as $20 online), and have better sound quality then sometimes even pairs twice their price. They held me over until I was able to get my hands on a pair of Shure SE110's, which are AMAZING, albeit a bit bulky.

[Arbalest05]

I own 3 of the models on this list but I have to say that the Koss KSC75 is superior than any on this list. You can get them for about $14 from most places.

[Ray180]

Would you say it's worth spending a few extra bucks to get the Zune Premium Headphones v2 for $29 (Amazon) as compared to those on this list?

Also, are the Klipsch IMAGE S4 headphones ($80) the best value on the market right now?

[NeONGeneSAr]

I recently received the S4, and I'm very happy with them. I've only been through 2 other pairs of headphones, the first being Sennheiser MX300 that came with an old iRiver player. I enjoyed their bass "feel" although the mids/highs got swallowed with loud volumes, and they were also uncomfortable and didn't isolate any ambient noise. Earlier this year, I dropped major coin on the Shure SE530. While their sound performance is amazing especially in the clarity department, they didn't possess the bass OOMPH that I like. The Klipsch S4 deliver a dynamic range that is pleasing to my ears. (You can read my reviews of the Shure and Klipsch on the site.)

[homsar57]

As an audiophile I must say, for only five dollars more, you can get a pair of earbuds that outclasses everything here by a mile. They're called Soundmagic PL30. review is here http://www.head-fi.org/forums/f137/review-soundmagic-pl30-433799/
Oh and in my opinion, Skullcandys sound like a cat getting run over by a semi.

[rommeo73]

Anyone know a good replacement set of headphones with a built in mic for my iphone?

[NeONGeneSAr]

Try the new Klipsch S4i.

[Syliss]

I personally cant stand in-ear phones like these. They just do not stay in my ears. I am currently using the Creative ep-480's because they sound somewhat decent and fit in my ears. I have to have a minimum of 32ohms for it to sound some what good, all of those are not even close. I want a list of ear buds so that i can get something better then what i currently have.

[Bill Veik]

I have a better option...headphones that garner looks/attention, make you look like you just fell out of the movie Tron, have absolutely superior sound, can be worn for hours in comfort (even while sleeping), have had a HUGE reputation AND following for over 20 years, and come with a lifetime warranty, NO QUESTIONS ASKED. Send 6 bucks to New Jersey, and you find yourself with a NEW pair of headphones. I have a pair at work, and a pair at home. Some 40-46 bucks on Amazon.com. Still reading? Then here they are:

Koss Porta-Pro.

They can catch your hair if you try to adjust them while on your head. Remove them, open them all the way, place them on your ears, then slide them till snug.

[yoyojam55]

What about the Meelectronics M9? Any chance of you getting some in to review?