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“Overpriced” is a judgment about value, not proof that a headphone is bad. In a September 23, 2026 article, Jorge Luis of BGR identified four models that some users and reviewers felt did not justify their price: Beats Studio Pro, Sony WH-1000XM5, Raycon The Essential Headphones, and Bowers & Wilkins Px8. The concerns differ by model, and the article does not establish that all users agree. Compare each headphone with what matters to you—sound, noise cancellation, fit, features, repairability, and the price actually available where you shop.
What “overpriced” means in this list
BGR’s list summarizes opinions drawn from YouTube audiophiles, Amazon reviews, audio forums, and the author’s own experience. It does not publish a review count, dates for the reviews it considered, ratings distribution, or a repeatable scoring method. Treat the models below as products that some reviewers questioned on value, not as a consensus verdict or objective ranking.
As BGR author Jorge Luis put it, “This doesn’t necessarily mean these expensive headphones are bad, only that you might not feel you are getting your money’s worth, especially if your ears aren’t tuned/trained to really listen.” The useful question is therefore not simply whether a model is expensive, but whether its sound, comfort, features, and durability are worth its price to you.
How to compare value before choosing
- Sound and tuning: Decide whether you prefer a bass-forward presentation, a more balanced sound, or the character of a particular model. Personal preference matters as much as reviewer terminology.
- Noise cancellation: If blocking outside sound is a priority, weigh that benefit against what you would pay for sound quality and other features.
- Comfort and fit: Try the headphones if possible. Clamp pressure, cushion feel, and how they fit your head can matter more than a small difference in specifications.
- Build and repairability: Check the construction and whether replaceable parts, such as ear cushions, are available. A difficult-to-replace part may affect how long the purchase remains practical.
- Features and actual price: Compare the features you will use and the price offered in your region today. Discounts and product prices change; a headline price from an older article is not a reliable current quote.
For broader context on the two models in its headline comparison, see What Hi-Fi?’s Beats Studio Pro review and RTINGS’ Beats Studio Pro vs Sony WH-1000XM5 comparison, updated July 2, 2026. The original review prices in older coverage are historical, not current shopping quotes.
#1 Best Overall
- Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling: 2 internal and 2 external mics work in tandem to detect external noise and effectively reduce up to 90% of it, no matter in trains or offices.
- Immerse Yourself in Detailed Audio: The noise cancelling headphones have oversized 40mm dynamic drivers that produce detailed sound and thumping beats with BassUp technology for your every travel, commuting and gaming. Compatible with Hi-Res certified audio via the AUX cable for more detail.
- 40-Hour Long Battery Life and Fast Charging: With 40 hours of battery life with ANC on and 60 hours in normal mode, you can commute in peace with your Bluetooth headphones without thinking about recharging. Fast charge for 5 mins to get an extra 4 hours of music listening for daily users.
- Dual-Connections: Connect to two devices simultaneously with Bluetooth 5.0 and instantly switch between them. Whether you're working on your laptop, or need to take a phone call, audio from your Bluetooth headphones will automatically play from the device you need to hear from.
- App for EQ Customization: Download the soundcore app to tailor your sound using the customizable EQ, with 22 presets, or adjust it yourself. You can also switch between 3 modes: ANC, Normal, and Transparency, and relax with white noise.
Beats Studio Pro: consider fit, sound, and replaceable parts
BGR reports that some reviews criticize the Studio Pro’s overall sound, strong bass emphasis, build quality, tight fit, and cushions that cannot be replaced. Those are reported opinions summarized by the article, not independently established defects; BGR’s own review was more favorable. If fit or long-term upkeep is important to you, pay particular attention to those points before buying.
BGR names the Sennheiser Momentum 4 as a similarly priced competitor. Compare the two for the tuning you prefer, comfort during extended listening, and the live price you can actually get. The official Beats Studio Pro page displayed a $349.99 sale price when checked; that is a sale observation, not a guaranteed or permanent price.
Rank #2
- JBL Pure Bass Sound: The JBL Tune 720BT features the renowned JBL Pure Bass sound, the same technology that powers the most famous venues all around the world.
- Wireless Bluetooth 5.3 technology: Wirelessly stream high-quality sound from your smartphone without messy cords with the help of the latest Bluetooth technology.
- Customize your listening experience: Download the free JBL Headphones App to tailor the sound to your taste with the EQ. Voice prompts in your desired language guide you through the Tune 720BT features.
- Customize your listening experience: Download the free JBL Headphones App to tailor the sound to your taste by choosing one of the pre-set EQ modes or adjusting the EQ curve according to your content, your style, your taste.
- Hands-free calls with Voice Aware: Easily control your sound and manage your calls from your headphones with the convenient buttons on the ear-cup. Hear your voice while talking, with the help of Voice Aware.
Sony WH-1000XM5: decide whether noise cancellation merits the price
The value concern BGR describes is mainly about the price relative to performance, particularly for listeners who feel noise cancellation receives more emphasis than sound quality. That does not mean the noise cancellation is unimportant; it means its value depends on whether it is a priority for you.
BGR points readers who want noise cancellation at a lower price toward the Soundcore Space One. Compare the actual prices and the balance of sound, cancellation, comfort, and features rather than assuming a lower-cost alternative will suit every listener. What Hi-Fi?’s comparison with the Beats Studio Pro reflects the pricing context when it reviewed those headphones, not current prices.
Rank #3
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: With up to 50-hour battery life and quick charging, you’ll have enough power for multi-day road trips and long festival weekends.(USB Type-C Cable included)
- HIGH QUALITY SOUND: Great sound quality customizable to your music preference with EQ Custom on the Sony | Headphones Connect App.
- LIGHT & COMFORTABLE: The lightweight build and swivel earcups gently slip on and off, while the adjustable headband, cushion and soft ear pads give you all-day comfort.
- CRYSTAL CLEAR CALLS: A built-in microphone provides you with hands-free calling. No need to even take your phone from your pocket.
- MULTIPOINT CONNECTION: Quickly switch between two devices at once.
Raycon The Essential Headphones: check the price against basic-use alternatives
BGR characterizes Raycon The Essential as an entry-level option for basic use, with active noise cancellation and long battery life, and argues that its reported near-$100 price is high relative to alternatives. Both the price and feature description reflect that article’s reporting; confirm the current specifications and live price before comparing or purchasing.
The article names JLab JBuds Lux and Soundcore Q31i as alternatives. Compare their current prices and verified features against the Raycon model, focusing on whether you need noise cancellation, how you find the sound and fit, and which features you will use. The BGR comparison alone does not establish which is the better buy for every listener.
Rank #4
- Block the World, Keep the Music: Four built-in mics work together to filter out background noise — whether you're in a packed office, on a crowded commute, or moving through a busy street — so every beat comes through clean and clear. (Not available in AUX-in mode.)
- Two Ways to Hear More: BassUp technology delivers deep, punchy bass and crisp highs in wireless mode — then step it up further by plugging in the included AUX cable to unlock Hi‑Res certified audio for studio-level clarity.
- 40 Hours. 5-Minute Top-Up: With ANC on, a single charge keeps you listening through days of commutes and long-haul flights. Running low? Just 5 minutes plugged in gives you 4 more hours — so you're never stuck waiting.
- Two Devices, Zero Hassle: Stay connected to your laptop and phone at the same time. Audio switches automatically to whichever device needs you — so a call never interrupts your flow, and getting back to your playlist is just as easy. Designed for commuters and remote workers who move smoothly between work and personal listening throughout the day.
- Your Sound, Your Rules: The soundcore app puts everything at your fingertips — dials your ideal EQ with presets or build your own, flip between ANC, Normal, and Transparency modes on the fly, or wind down with built-in white noise. One app, total control.
Bowers & Wilkins Px8: reassess the price, not just the premium label
BGR reports that some users find the Px8’s premium difficult to justify and names Focal Bathys as an alternative for people prioritizing audiophile sound. That is a value concern, not a finding that the Px8 is poor quality or that the Bathys is automatically the better choice. Compare sound, fit, features, and the price offered to you.
The US price context has changed from BGR’s “nearly $800” characterization: the official Bowers & Wilkins US Px8 page displayed $479, reduced from $749, when checked for this article. That observation applies to the US page and may change; it is not a global price or a verdict on value.
Choose for your priorities, not the label
These four headphones attract different value criticisms: reported concerns about the Beats’ sound, fit, build, and cushions; a Sony debate centered on paying for a feature-led noise-cancelling proposition; a Raycon price comparison with entry-level alternatives; and a Px8 premium whose current US price context differs from BGR’s description. None of those points alone can settle the purchase. Check current prices and specifications, then decide which compromises matter for your listening and budget.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
