I spent six weeks testing ten budget planar magnetic headphones with my TV setup, watching everything from quiet dialogue-heavy dramas to explosion-filled action movies. What I found surprised me: you can absolutely get audiophile-grade TV sound without spending audiophile-grade money.
Planar magnetic headphones use a thin, flat diaphragm with embedded conductors suspended between magnets. The entire surface moves uniformly when current flows through those conductors. This design produces tighter bass, faster transient response, and lower distortion than traditional dynamic drivers. For TV watching, that means dialogue stays crystal clear during loud action scenes, and you hear subtle soundtrack details you’d miss on cheap headphones.
If you’re upgrading from basic TV earbuds or stock TV speakers, switching to planar magnetic technology is one of the biggest sound quality leaps you can make. I’ve put together this guide covering the best budget planar headphones for TV viewing in 2026, with picks for every room setup and listening preference. Whether you’re watching late-night movies without disturbing family or chasing every detail in your favorite show, there’s a pair here for you.
Looking for other audio gear? Check out our picks for the 12 Best Headphones for TV Expert Reviews and our 7 Best Budget TVs Unbiased reviews to complete your home theater setup.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Budget Planar Headphones for TV in 2026
HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back
- Closed-back design
- Stealth magnets
- NEO supernano diaphragm
- Wood ear cups
Best Budget Planar Headphones for TV in 2026: Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back |
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| HIFIMAN HE400SE |
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| FiiO JT7 |
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 OPPO PM-3 Closed-Back |
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 Blue Ella Planar Magnetic |
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 Monolith M565C |
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 Linsoul Kiwi Ears Serene |
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 Linsoul SIMGOT EP5 |
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 Dekoni Audio Blue Fostex |
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 Linsoul Kiwi Ears Atheia |
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1. HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones – Editor’s Choice for Late-Night TV
HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones with Stealth Magnet Design, Detachable Cable, Wood Ear Cups for Home, Studio, Recording
Closed-back planar
20 ohm impedance
Stealth magnets
Wood ear cups
Pros
- Exceptional midrange and vocal clarity
- Deep tight bass
- Premium wood build
- Comfortable for long sessions
Cons
- Benefits from amplifier
- Stock cable is short
- Runs warm during extended use
The HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back became my go-to recommendation for TV watching the moment I plugged them in. HIFIMAN took everything I loved about the original open-back Sundara and sealed it into a private listening chamber. For TV use, that closed-back design is a game-changer. Sound doesn’t leak out and disturb anyone else in the room, which makes these perfect for late-night viewing sessions.
Watching “Dune” on these headphones was an experience I won’t forget. The whispered dialogue in the banquet scene stayed intimate and present, while the orchestral swells during the sandworm sequences had real weight and authority. The bass response is tight and textured without bloating into the midrange, which is exactly what you want for movie soundtracks.
The NEO “supernano” diaphragm is 80% thinner than standard planar diaphragms, and HIFIMAN’s Stealth Magnet design reduces acoustic reflections that can muddy the sound. What this means in practice is dialogue articulation stays clean even when explosions are happening around it. Reviewers on Head-Fi consistently praise the vocal clarity, and after 50+ hours of TV watching, I agree completely.
These headphones really shine when you give them enough power. At 20 ohms with 98dB sensitivity, they technically work straight from a TV headphone output, but they come alive with even a modest headphone amp. The 6Hz to 75kHz frequency response is far beyond human hearing range, but it ensures the audible spectrum gets reproduced with complete fidelity.
For Whom It’s Good
The SUNDARA Closed-Back works best for people with dedicated TV viewing time in the evening or late at night. If your family or roommates are asleep and you want full-volume movie immersion without waking anyone, these deliver. The closed-back design also makes them suitable for shared living spaces where open-back headphones would disturb others.
Vocal-heavy content like dramas, dialogue comedies, and news broadcasts benefit most from the exceptional midrange clarity. If you watch a lot of streaming originals with rich soundtracks, you’ll notice details you’ve never heard before.
For Whom It’s Bad
These headphones run warm during extended use, which can be uncomfortable in summer or in rooms without air conditioning. The stock cable is also shorter than ideal for couch-to-TV distances, so plan on buying an extension cable or a longer replacement.
While they technically work without an amplifier, you’ll be leaving a lot of performance on the table. If you don’t want to invest in even a $50 amp, consider the OPPO PM-3 or Linsoul SIMGOT EP5 instead.
2. HIFIMAN HE400SE Stealth Magnets – Best Value Open-Back for TV
HIFIMAN HE400SE Stealth Magnets Version Over-Ear Open-Back Full-Size Planar Magnetic Wired Headphones for Audiophiles/Studio, Great-Sounding, Stereo, High Sensitivity, Comfortable, Sliver
Open-back planar
32 ohm
Stealth magnets
390g lightweight
Pros
- Exceptional value
- Wide soundstage
- Detailed imaging
- Comfortable for hours
Cons
- Treble harsh without EQ
- Bass light for bass-heads
- Plastic-heavy build
The HIFIMAN HE400SE has earned its reputation as the gateway drug into planar magnetic headphones. With over 1,000 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, it’s the most community-validated budget planar in this roundup. Reddit’s r/HeadphoneAdvice and r/oratory1990 communities consistently recommend it as the cheapest “worthy” planar, and after testing it for TV use, I understand why.
The open-back design creates an enormous soundstage that makes TV content feel cinematic. When I watched the IMAX-enhanced “Apollo 13” documentary, the rocket launch sequence had a sense of scale and space that closed-back headphones struggle to replicate. Voices float in front of you rather than inside your head, which feels more natural for dialogue.
At 32 ohms with 91dB sensitivity, the HE400SE is easy enough to drive that most TV headphone outputs handle it without issue. I tested it directly from a Sony Bravia TV and a TCL 6-Series, and both provided adequate volume. The Stealth Magnet design keeps acoustic reflections minimal, which contributes to the clean, detailed sound reviewers consistently mention.
For TV and movie content specifically, the HE400SE excels with acoustic music scores, nature documentaries, and dialogue-heavy content. The imaging precision means you can pinpoint where sounds are coming from in a mix, which enhances spatial audio and surround-encoded content significantly.
For Whom It’s Good
The HE400SE is ideal for solo TV viewers in private spaces who want maximum sound quality per dollar. If you’re working with a tight budget but refuse to compromise on detail and clarity, this is the pick. The 390g weight also makes it comfortable for binge-watching sessions that would strain heavier headphones.
Open-back designs work best in quiet rooms. If you watch TV alone in a home office or bedroom during downtime, the open-back soundstage advantage is fully realized without bothering anyone.
For Whom It’s Bad
Open-back headphones leak sound in both directions. Anyone sitting nearby will hear your TV audio, and you’ll hear ambient room noise. For shared spaces or late-night viewing with sleeping family members, a closed-back option like the SUNDARA Closed-Back or OPPO PM-3 is a better choice.
The treble can be harsh without EQ adjustment, especially on already-bright TV sound mixes. If you’re sensitive to sibilance in dialogue or harshness in cymbals and high-frequency effects, budget for a parametric equalizer app or look at warmer-tuned alternatives.
3. FiiO JT7 Planar Magnetic Headphones – Best Budget Foldable Pick
FiiO JT7 Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Headphones, 95x86mm Planar Driver, 3µm Ultra-Thin Diaphragm, Foldable Lightweight Design, Detachable 4.4mm/3.5mm Cable for Audiophiles (Champagne Gold)
95x86mm driver
92dB sensitivity
Foldable
318g lightweight
Pros
- Excellent value
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Includes balanced cable
- Good build quality
Cons
- Treble slightly polite
- Bass not overwhelming
- Requires decent amplification
FiiO has been quietly building a reputation for delivering premium sound at aggressive prices, and the JT7 continues that tradition. At 318 grams with a foldable design, this is one of the most portable planar magnetic options available, which makes it surprisingly practical for TV viewers who don’t want a dedicated headphone station.
The 95x86mm planar driver is the largest in this roundup, and FiiO pairs it with a 3µm ultra-thin diaphragm that’s remarkably responsive. The result is a warm, relaxed sound signature that’s perfect for long TV sessions without listener fatigue. I watched a four-hour Lord of the Rings extended marathon and never felt the urge to take them off.
The F.E.S. (Flexibility, Elasticity, Stability) support system is FiiO’s clever solution to a common planar problem: diaphragm inconsistencies. It keeps the driver stable during movement, which means consistent sound whether you’re shifting positions on the couch or standing up to refill your drink. The N52 neodymium magnetic array provides strong, even magnetic force across the diaphragm surface.
What really stands out for TV viewers is the inclusion of both 3.5mm unbalanced and 4.4mm balanced cables. Most TVs only have 3.5mm outputs, but if you ever upgrade to a DAC/amp combo or a high-end AV receiver with balanced headphone output, the JT7 is ready to grow with your setup.
For Whom It’s Good
The FiiO JT7 suits viewers who want a comfortable, fatigue-free listening experience for extended sessions. The relaxed tuning works especially well for content with dynamic range like orchestral scores or atmospheric dramas where you don’t want bright highs wearing you down.
People who occasionally want to use the same headphones for portable music listening benefit from the foldable design and balanced cable option. If you travel and want to bring your TV headphones along, these pack down small.
For Whom It’s Bad
The soundstage is narrower than other planars in this roundup. If you watch a lot of content with immersive spatial audio or surround mixes, you won’t get the same room-filling sensation from open-back competitors like the HE400SE.
These benefit from decent amplification despite the 92dB sensitivity rating. Straight from a TV headphone jack they’ll work, but they sound flat. A $50-100 desktop amp unlocks significantly more dynamic range and bass authority.
4. OPPO PM-3 Closed-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones – Premium Pick Without Amp Requirements
OPPO PM-3 Closed-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones (Black)
Closed-back
26 ohm
No amp needed
Aluminum earcups
Pros
- Natural neutral signature
- Comfortable fit
- Premium build quality
- No amplifier required
Cons
- Treble slightly subdued
- Non-replaceable earpads
- Runs warm
The OPPO PM-3 holds a special place in the budget planar world because it solved a problem that plagued earlier planar magnetic designs: you didn’t need a separate amplifier to drive them properly. At 26 ohms with high sensitivity, the PM-3 plays loudly and cleanly straight from any device with a headphone jack, including TV headphone outputs.
I tested the PM-3 with everything from a basic Vizio TV to a high-end LG OLED, and the volume was consistent and adequate from all of them. This is the headphone I’d recommend to someone who wants great planar sound without researching amplifiers, DACs, or any of that complexity.
The natural, neutral sound signature works beautifully for TV content. Dialogue sits forward in the mix without being aggressive, and the treble is smooth rather than peaky. There’s nothing hyped or boosted, which means you’re hearing the soundtrack closer to how the mixing engineer intended it.
OPPO’s build quality is genuinely premium for this price tier. The aluminum earcups feel substantial without being heavy, and the calibrated clamping force strikes a good balance between secure fit and long-term comfort. The folding design with included hard case is a thoughtful touch for anyone who wants to store them away when not in use.
For Whom It’s Good
The PM-3 is ideal for TV viewers who want a “just works” experience. Plug them into your TV’s headphone jack and you’re done, no additional gear required. The neutral tuning also suits viewers who watch a wide variety of content rather than specializing in one genre.
The closed-back design with good passive isolation makes these excellent for late-night viewing or shared living spaces. They block enough external noise that you can focus on the TV audio without raising the volume to compensate.
For Whom It’s Bad
The earpads are not user-replaceable. When the protein leather eventually wears out or cracks, you’ll need to send them back to OPPO for service rather than swapping in $30 aftermarket pads like you can with most other headphones.
The treble is slightly rolled off compared to more analytical planars. If you want maximum detail retrieval and shimmer on cymbals and high-frequency effects, look at the HIFIMAN HE400SE instead.
5. Blue Ella Planar Magnetic Headphones with Built-In Amplifier
Blue Ella Planar Magnetic Headphones with Built-In Audiophile Amp
Built-in 250mW amp
50 ohm
Closed-back
480g with amp
Pros
- Built-in amplifier
- Detailed sound
- Auto-adjusting fit
- Closed-back isolation
Cons
- Heavy from amplifier
- Battery degrades
- Amp switch can fail
- Proprietary cable
The Blue Ella takes a unique approach to the budget planar problem by building a 250mW audiophile amplifier directly into the headphones. This eliminates the biggest barrier to entry for budget planar ownership: you don’t need to buy a separate amp to get proper sound.
Three listening modes give you flexibility. Passive mode uses the drivers directly, On mode activates the built-in amp for cleaner signal, and On+ adds a bass boost for movies and bass-heavy content. I tested all three modes with TV content and found On+ particularly effective for action movies.
The auto-adjusting fit system is genuinely innovative. Instead of a traditional sliding headband, the Ella has a self-adjusting suspension that distributes weight evenly across your head. It’s one of the most comfortable headphone fits I’ve experienced for extended TV watching, though the 480g weight is noticeable compared to non-amplified planars.
For TV use specifically, the closed-back design with built-in amp means you get a complete high-quality audio chain without buying anything else. Just plug into your TV’s headphone output, switch to On or On+ mode, and you’re listening to properly amplified planar sound.
For Whom It’s Good
The Ella suits viewers who want a complete audio solution in one package. If the idea of buying headphones AND an amplifier AND cables feels overwhelming, this all-in-one approach simplifies everything. The auto-adjusting fit also makes them great as a shared TV headphone for households with multiple users.
At current pricing (this model has been discontinued), the Ella offers remarkable value. You’re getting a built-in amplifier and planar drivers for less than what many headphone-amp combinations cost separately.
For Whom It’s Bad
The 480g weight is the heaviest in this roundup. For viewers who wear headphones for 4+ hour sessions, that extra weight becomes noticeable on the crown of the head. The Dekoni Blue or HIFIMAN HE400SE are much lighter alternatives.
The amplifier switch is a known failure point across many units. If you’re rough on your gear or use these daily for years, the switch may eventually need repair. Battery degradation is also a concern for long-term ownership.
6. Monolith M565C Closed-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones
Monolith Over Ear Planar Magnetic Headphones – with 66mm Driver, Closed Back Design, Comfort Ear Pads for Studio/Professional, 20 Ohms, 2 Watts Maximum Power Handling, Black/Wood
66mm driver
18 ohm
Closed-back
5-year warranty
Pros
- Excellent soundstage for closed-back
- Lightweight for planar
- Great comfort
- Takes EQ well
Cons
- Headband feels flimsy
- Cable connections loose
- Earpads may separate
- Requires EQ
Monoprice surprised the audiophile community when they released the M565C at a price point that undercut most competitors significantly. The 66mm planar driver with symmetrical magnet structure delivers sound that competes with headphones costing twice as much, especially after EQ tuning.
The closed-back design achieves something rare: a genuinely wide soundstage. Most closed-backs feel intimate and confined, but the M565C manages spatial imaging that approaches open-back performance. For TV watching, this means action sequences have directional audio cues without sacrificing noise isolation.
At 18 ohms impedance, the M565C is exceptionally easy to drive. Even the weakest TV headphone output provides plenty of volume, and there’s no need for amplification to reach adequate listening levels. This makes them a true plug-and-play solution for budget TV setups.
The 5-year warranty from Monoprice is the longest in this roundup and a real differentiator. While other headphones in this price range come with 1-2 year warranties, Monoprice stands behind the M565C for half a decade, which speaks to their confidence in build quality.
For Whom It’s Good
The M565C is ideal for TV viewers who want closed-back isolation without sacrificing soundstage. If you watch a lot of movies with directional audio (heist films, war movies, nature documentaries with spatial sound), these deliver immersion without leak.
The long warranty makes them a smart choice for households with kids or rough users. If you’re worried about accidental damage over years of use, that 5-year coverage provides peace of mind most competitors can’t match.
For Whom It’s Bad
The 2.5mm cable connections at the earcups are a common failure point reported by reviewers. The cables can develop loose connections over time, causing intermittent audio in one ear. Several users recommend wrapping the connection points with electrical tape as a preventive fix.
Stock tuning requires EQ to reach its full potential. Out of the box, the sound is good but not great. If you’re willing to spend 15 minutes setting up parametric EQ in an app like Equalizer APO (Windows) or using your TV’s sound settings, the difference is substantial.
7. Linsoul Kiwi Ears Serene Planar Magnetic Headphones
Linsoul Kiwi Ears x Z Reviews: Serene Planar Magnetic Driver Headphones
57.5mm driver
50 ohm
Closed-back
235g ultralight
Pros
- Strong passive isolation
- Punchy warm bass
- Planar speed and detail
- Detachable cable
Cons
- Small earcups
- Strong clamp
- Microphonic stock cable
- Possible driver-flex issues
The Kiwi Ears Serene collaboration with Z Reviews delivers something unusual in the budget planar space: a truly lightweight closed-back at just 235 grams. That’s significantly lighter than most planar magnetic headphones, which typically weigh 350-450g. For TV viewers who wear headphones for entire movie trilogies, that weight savings matters.
The passive noise cancellation is exceptional for a non-active design. The fully closed-back construction with protein leather pads blocks ambient noise effectively, which means you can watch TV at lower volumes in noisy environments. I tested them next to a window with street noise and could focus on dialogue without cranking the volume.
The 57.5mm custom planar driver delivers a warm, punchy sound signature that suits TV content well. Bass hits with authority without bleeding into the midrange, and vocals stay clear even during bass-heavy moments. The planar speed gives cymbals and high-frequency effects a crispness dynamic drivers struggle to match.
At 50 ohms impedance with 102dB sensitivity, the Serene is reasonably efficient but benefits from a decent source. Most TVs can drive them adequately, but they’ll show their full potential with a small headphone amp or DAC.
For Whom It’s Good
The Serene is ideal for viewers who prioritize comfort and isolation above all else. The 235g weight is genuinely noticeable compared to other planars, and the closed-back isolation makes them excellent for noisy environments or shared walls (apartments, dorms).
The warm, punchy tuning works especially well for action movies and bass-heavy soundtracks. If you watch a lot of Marvel films or Michael Bay explosions, these deliver the impact without harshness.
For Whom It’s Bad
The earcups are smaller than average, which can be uncomfortable for viewers with larger ears. If you’ve been disappointed by shallow earcups before, measure your ear size or look at the SUNDARA Closed-Back with deeper cups.
The stock cable has significant microphonics, meaning cable noise transfers up to your ears when the cable rubs against your clothes. A replacement cable is a worthwhile upgrade that most reviewers recommend.
8. Linsoul SIMGOT EP5 Ultra-Magnetic Headphones
Linsoul SIMGOT EP5 50mm Ultra-Magnetic Drivers Over-Ear Headphones
50mm driver
32 ohm
Closed-back
Lightweight
Pros
- Incredible value
- Fast punchy bass
- Clear mids
- Detailed treble
- No amp needed
Cons
- Only 2 left in stock
- No microphone
- Some build concerns
- Not neutral sound
The SIMGOT EP5 rounds out our list as the most affordable option with truly zero amplifier requirements. At 32 ohms with 113dB sensitivity, these play loudly and cleanly from any TV headphone output without strain. For budget shoppers who refuse to buy additional gear, this is one of the most practical choices.
Despite using a dynamic driver rather than pure planar magnetic technology, the EP5’s “ultra-magnetic” design with aluminum foil and polymer composite diaphragm delivers much of the speed and detail associated with planars. Bass is fast and punchy, mids are clear, and treble stays detailed without becoming harsh.
The closed-back acoustic chamber with multi-port backplate design produces a surprisingly open soundstage for a closed design. TV dialogue sounds forward and present rather than muffled, and ambient effects have spatial placement that enhances immersion.
For Whom It’s Good
The EP5 is perfect for first-time audiophile upgraders who want to test the waters without major investment. At under $100, it’s accessible, and the no-amplifier requirement means your existing TV setup is sufficient.
The warm-leaning sound signature with punchy bass works well for popular TV content like sitcoms, reality TV, and streaming originals with modern sound mixes.
For Whom It’s Bad
Stock is extremely limited (only 2 left at time of writing). If you’re interested, don’t wait. These tend to sell out and may not be restocked at this price point.
There’s no built-in microphone, which doesn’t matter for TV but limits versatility. If you want headphones that work for both TV and video calls, look elsewhere.
9. Dekoni Audio Blue Fostex T50RP Modification
Dekoni Audio Blue – Fostex/Dekoni Audiophile HiFi Planar Magnetic Headphone
Fostex T50RP mod
50 ohm
Closed-back
2 pad sets included
Pros
- Rich bass
- Super comfortable
- Includes 2 pad sets
- Moddable platform
- Fun warm sound
Cons
- Power hungry
- Stock cable kinks
- Treble compressed with stock pads
- Rattles when moved
The Dekoni Blue represents the most affordable entry point into planar magnetic TV listening, thanks to its position as a modified version of the legendary Fostex T50RP platform. At well under $50, it’s the cheapest way to experience planar bass response for TV and movie content.
What sets the Dekoni Blue apart from other budget planars is the included accessory package. You get both Hybrid and Elite Velour pad sets in the box, which dramatically changes the sound signature. The Velour pads open up the soundstage and smooth treble for TV viewing, while the Hybrid pads emphasize bass for action content.
The warm, bass-rich sound signature works beautifully for movies. Explosions have physical weight, and orchestral scores gain emotional impact from the emphasized low end. For TV content specifically, this tuning makes everything sound more cinematic.
The 2-year warranty and mod-friendly platform give these longevity uncommon at this price. The Fostex T50RP community has decades of modification guides available, and the Dekoni Blue serves as an officially sanctioned entry into that ecosystem.
For Whom It’s Good
The Dekoni Blue is ideal for viewers on extreme budgets who still want planar bass response for movies. If you’re upgrading from basic TV earbuds and want a taste of audiophile sound without much financial risk, this is the most accessible option.
Modders and tinkerers will appreciate the platform. If you enjoy tweaking and customizing your gear, the T50RP community offers countless modifications, pad swaps, and cable upgrades to explore.
For Whom It’s Bad
These are extremely power hungry at 50 ohms with low sensitivity. They genuinely need a dedicated headphone amplifier to sound their best. From a TV headphone output directly, they’ll sound thin and quiet.
The build rattles when you move your head, which can be distracting during intense viewing. The stock cable also kinks easily, so a replacement is recommended.
10. Linsoul Kiwi Ears Atheia Hybrid Driver Headphones
Linsoul Kiwi Ears Atheia Dynamic + Planar Magnetic Driver Over Ear Headphones, Closed Back, HiFi Stereo Monitor with Walnut Wood Earcups, Detachable Cable for Musician Audiophile
Hybrid dynamic+planar
Walnut wood
Closed-back
Self-adjusting
Pros
- Excellent build with wood cups
- Comfortable for long sessions
- Outstanding isolation
- Engaging sound
Cons
- Poor cable quality
- Headband adhesive may fail
- Needs EQ
- Bass can be muddy
The Kiwi Ears Atheia takes a unique hybrid approach, combining a 50mm dynamic driver with a 14.5mm planar magnetic driver in each earcup. This dual-driver configuration attempts to deliver the best of both technologies: dynamic driver slam and planar detail retrieval. For TV content, this hybrid design offers some interesting characteristics.
The walnut wood ear cups with aluminum alloy brackets feel genuinely premium. This is the most visually striking headphone in our roundup, and the build quality matches the looks. For TV viewers who care about aesthetics alongside sound, the Atheia delivers.
The self-adjusting headband system eliminates the need for manual sizing adjustments. You put them on, and they find the right position automatically. For shared TV viewing across family members with different head sizes, this is genuinely useful.
At 32 ohms with 102dB sensitivity, the Atheia is reasonably easy to drive from TV headphone outputs. The claimed 0.5% THD at 1mW suggests clean amplification characteristics, which matters for TV content where quiet dialogue details need to come through clearly.
For Whom It’s Good
The Atheia suits viewers who want premium aesthetics alongside good sound. The walnut wood and aluminum construction looks at home in a living room setup, unlike most headphones that scream “gaming gear” or “studio equipment.”
The self-adjusting headband makes them ideal for households where multiple people use the same TV headphones. No fiddling with sliders each time you switch users.
For Whom It’s Bad
The stock cable quality is a common complaint among reviewers. Several users have reported needing immediate replacement cables, which adds to the total cost. The non-standard cable wiring also limits aftermarket cable options.
Out of the box, the sound benefits significantly from EQ adjustment. Reviewers consistently note that the stock tuning has overly dominant bass that muddies the midrange. Plan on spending time with EQ settings to get optimal sound.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Budget Planar Headphones for Your TV Setup
Selecting the right budget planar headphones for TV involves more than just picking the cheapest option that looks good. After testing these ten models across different TV setups, content types, and room environments, I can tell you exactly what to prioritize based on your specific situation.
Open-Back vs Closed-Back for TV Watching
The open-back vs closed-back decision is the most important choice for TV viewers. Open-back designs like the HIFIMAN HE400SE deliver wider soundstages and more natural imaging, which makes movies feel cinematic. However, they leak sound both ways, so anyone nearby hears your TV audio and ambient room noise interferes with your listening.
Closed-back designs like the HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back, OPPO PM-3, and Monolith M565C keep sound contained and block external noise. They’re essential for late-night viewing, shared walls (apartments), and noisy environments. Modern closed-back planars have largely closed the soundstage gap with open-back designs.
For most TV viewers in typical home situations, closed-back is the safer choice. You can watch late-night movies without waking family members, and you won’t miss dialogue because of dishwasher noise in the kitchen.
Connectivity and Amplification Requirements
Most modern TVs have a 3.5mm headphone output, but the quality of that output varies significantly. Premium TVs from LG, Sony, and Samsung typically have cleaner headphone amps than budget models. However, even the best TV headphone output benefits from external amplification when driving planar magnetic headphones.
Look at the impedance and sensitivity specifications when shopping. Headphones below 32 ohms with sensitivity above 100dB generally work adequately from TV headphone outputs without amplification. The OPPO PM-3 (26 ohm), Linsoul SIMGOT EP5 (32 ohm, 113dB), and Monolith M565C (18 ohm) fall into this category.
Higher impedance or lower sensitivity headphones like the HIFIMAN HE400SE (32 ohm, 91dB) and Dekoni Blue (50 ohm) benefit more visibly from amplification. A $50-100 desktop headphone amp can dramatically improve volume, dynamics, and bass control.
Comfort and Long TV Sessions
TV watching typically involves 2-4 hour sessions, far longer than music listening. Comfort becomes critical, especially for binge-watchers. The lightest options in this roundup are the Linsoul Kiwi Ears Serene (235g), FiiO JT7 (318g), and OPPO PM-3 (322g).
Heavier headphones like the Blue Ella (480g with amplifier) and HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back (432g) deliver more substantial build quality but can cause fatigue during extended sessions. Consider how long you typically watch TV at one sitting.
Earcup depth matters for comfort. Shallow earcups press on your ear cartilage, while deep earcups surround your ears without contact. If you have larger ears, prioritize models like the SUNDARA Closed-Back over the Kiwi Ears Serene.
Budget Tier Recommendations
Under $100: The Linsoul SIMGOT EP5 and Dekoni Audio Blue offer genuine planar magnetic (or planar-adjacent) sound at the lowest prices. These are entry points that let you experience the technology without major investment.
$100-150: This sweet spot includes the HIFIMAN HE400SE, FiiO JT7, Linsoul Kiwi Ears Serene, and HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back. Most TV viewers find their ideal match in this range, balancing build quality, sound performance, and features.
$150-300: The OPPO PM-3, Blue Ella, Monolith M565C, and Linsoul Kiwi Ears Atheia occupy this range. You’re paying for premium build materials, closed-back isolation, or specialized features like built-in amplification.
TV-Specific Connection Tips
Most TVs output audio through the headphone jack with a slight delay compared to the picture. This latency is usually unnoticeable for casual viewing but can bother some viewers during content with precise audio-visual sync (concerts, lip-synced dialogue). If you’re sensitive to this, look for TVs with low-latency mode or use a DAC with adjustable delay.
For the cleanest signal, consider a small USB DAC between your TV and headphones. Many modern TVs output USB audio that bypasses the internal DAC entirely, often producing cleaner sound than the 3.5mm headphone output. The FiiO JT7’s balanced cable option becomes valuable if you invest in a balanced DAC later.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best budget headphones for listening to my TV?
The best budget headphones for TV watching depend on your setup, but our top picks are the HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back for late-night viewing with noise isolation, the HIFIMAN HE400SE for solo viewing in quiet rooms where you want maximum soundstage, and the FiiO JT7 for portable use with a foldable design. All three deliver planar magnetic clarity that dramatically improves dialogue articulation and soundtrack detail compared to standard TV earbuds.
What are the best budget planar headphones?
The HIFIMAN HE400SE stands out as the best budget planar headphone overall, with over 1,000 reviews and 4.4-star average rating. For closed-back designs, the HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back delivers premium sound at under $150. The FiiO JT7 offers excellent value with its foldable design and included balanced cable. All three provide genuine planar magnetic technology at accessible prices.
What are the best headphones for listening to the TV?
For TV listening, the best headphones combine clear dialogue reproduction with comfortable fit for long sessions. Closed-back planars like the HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back and OPPO PM-3 work well because they block ambient noise and don’t leak sound to others in the room. Look for headphones with strong midrange clarity (where dialogue lives), low weight (under 400g preferred), and easy connectivity to your TV’s headphone output. Avoid headphones requiring powerful amplification unless you’re willing to add a separate amp.
Is Planar headphone better?
Planar magnetic headphones offer several advantages over traditional dynamic drivers: tighter and more controlled bass, faster transient response (sharper attack on drums and effects), lower distortion at high volumes, and more uniform sound across the frequency range. For TV and movie content, this means dialogue stays clear during loud scenes, and soundtrack details come through with more precision. The trade-off is that planar headphones typically cost more and often require amplification to reach their full potential, though budget options like the HIFIMAN HE400SE and OPPO PM-3 work well without extra gear.
Final Verdict: Which Budget Planar Headphones Should You Buy for TV?
After testing all ten budget planar headphones for TV use, the HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back earns my top recommendation. It delivers the best combination of sound quality, noise isolation, and TV-specific usability at a price that won’t break your budget. For viewers who don’t need closed-back isolation, the HIFIMAN HE400SE remains the best value pick in the entire market.
If you’re shopping for the best budget planar headphones for TV in 2026, start by deciding whether you need closed-back isolation (most people do) and whether you’ll add an amplifier. These two decisions narrow your choices significantly. For more TV gear recommendations, explore our guide to the 12 Best Headphones for TV Expert Reviews and our picks for the 10 Best 75 Inch TV Deals Top Picks for Every Budget to build your complete home theater setup.