We decided that at this price we would test only models that offered a remote and mic, along with improved sound quality. If you're looking for exercise headphones, check out our wired and wireless reviews. Please note: These headphones are not sweat-resistant or meant for the gym. The sealed in-ear design will help to block out some external noise, too. Perfect for commuting, the Marshall Mode headphones have a remote and mic to take calls and are compact enough to stuff in a shirt pocket. With a focus on higher build and sound quality than cheap earbuds, the picks in this guide are for someone who loves listening to music on a portable device and wants to improve audio detail and sense of sonic space, but doesn't want to spend a fortune.

Just be sure to choose the remote option that matches your device when you add them to your cart. Not only did the headphones fit everyone (many others didn't), they cost less and sound better than much of their competition.

After researching a few hundred headphones in this price range and testing 54 with our expert audio panel, we're confident that the Marshall Mode is your best bet in this price range and a serious upgrade from the earbuds that came with your phone. If we wanted to buy in-ear headphones for under $100, we'd get the Marshall Mode.

This post was done in partnership with The Wirecutter, a buyer's guide to the best technology.

The wirecutter headphones under 100