Heyday Wired Headphones

Discovering Budget-Friendly Audio That Actually Delivers

I remember the moment clearly. Standing in Target, staring at a wall of headphones with price tags that made my wallet whimper. As someone who loses, breaks, or somehow destroys headphones with alarming regularity, I couldn’t justify dropping $200+ on another pair that would inevitably meet some tragic end. That’s when I spotted them—those colorful Heyday wired headphones with their modest price tag and surprisingly stylish design. Little did I know that impulse purchase would change my daily audio experience and inspire this deep dive into what might be the retail giant’s best-kept secret.

After six months of daily use, countless commutes, and more than a few accidental drops, I’m ready to share everything you need to know about Heyday wired headphones before you buy them. From sound quality that punches well above its weight class to the surprising durability that has outlasted my previous “premium” pairs, these Target-exclusive headphones deserve your attention if you’re looking for quality audio without emptying your bank account.

What Are Heyday Wired Headphones, Anyway?

If you’re unfamiliar with the Heyday brand, you’re not alone. Launched in 2018, Heyday is Target’s in-house electronics brand designed to offer stylish, affordable alternatives to more expensive tech accessories. Their wired headphone lineup sits at the intersection of fashion-forward design and budget-conscious pricing—a rare combination in the audio world where you typically sacrifice one for the other.

The first thing that struck me about these headphones was their visual appeal. Unlike most budget headphones that scream “I was made in the cheapest way possible,” Heyday’s offerings feature clean lines, modern color palettes, and thoughtful design touches that wouldn’t look out of place alongside headphones costing three times as much. From matte finishes to subtle metallic accents, these headphones manage to look premium despite their budget-friendly price point.

But looks can be deceiving, right? That was certainly my assumption when I first picked up a pair. How good could $20 headphones possibly sound? As it turns out, surprisingly good—but we’ll get to that shortly.

Breaking Down the Features: What You Get (and Don’t Get)

Let’s talk about what these headphones actually offer in terms of features. The Heyday wired headphones come in several different styles, but most share a common set of features:

• Standard 3.5mm audio jack (the universal headphone connector)
• Built-in microphone for calls
• In-line volume control
• Multi-function button for play/pause/call management
• Adjustable headband (for over-ear models)
• Lightweight design

What you won’t find are premium features like active noise cancellation, wireless connectivity, or companion apps with EQ settings. These are deliberately streamlined products focused on delivering good audio without the bells and whistles that drive up costs.

The earbuds versions typically include multiple silicone tip sizes to ensure a proper fit, while the on-ear and over-ear models feature adjustable headbands and cushioned ear cups. The padding isn’t as plush as you’d find on high-end models, but it’s comfortable enough for several hours of continuous wear before you might need a break.

One feature I particularly appreciate is the tangle-resistant cable. As someone who habitually tosses headphones into bags without proper storage, I’ve spent cumulative hours of my life untangling headphone cables. The flat cable design on most Heyday models significantly reduces this annoyance, though it doesn’t eliminate it entirely.

Sound Quality: The Pleasant Surprise

Let’s address the elephant in the room: sound quality. When I first plugged these headphones in, I braced myself for the tinny, hollow sound that typically plagues budget headphones. Instead, I was greeted with audio that was… actually good?

No, they don’t deliver the audiophile-grade sound of headphones costing hundreds of dollars. But for everyday listening—music streaming, podcasts, YouTube videos, and calls—they perform admirably well. The bass response is present without being overwhelming, mids are clear enough to make vocals shine, and while the highs lack some of the sparkle you’d get from premium headphones, they’re not harsh or grating.

What impressed me most was the balanced sound profile. Unlike many budget headphones that try to compensate for poor drivers by artificially boosting bass to extreme levels, Heyday’s approach feels more measured. You can hear distinct instruments in complex arrangements, vocals come through clearly, and there’s a decent sense of soundstage (the perception of space between instruments) for closed-back headphones in this price range.

For perspective, I conducted a blind test with friends using my Heyday over-ears ($24.99) against a pair of on-ear headphones from a well-known brand that cost $79.99. Three out of five friends either couldn’t tell the difference or actually preferred the Heyday sound. That’s not to say they outperform premium headphones—they don’t—but the value proposition is undeniable.

The microphone quality is serviceable but not outstanding. During calls, people can hear me clearly in quiet environments, but the mic picks up substantial background noise in louder settings. For occasional calls, it’s fine; for frequent conference calls or voice recording, you’ll want something more specialized.

Price Point: What Do They Actually Cost?

One of the most compelling aspects of Heyday wired headphones is their price. The lineup typically ranges from:

• Earbuds: $9.99 – $19.99
• On-ear headphones: $14.99 – $24.99
• Over-ear headphones: $19.99 – $29.99

The price variations within each category typically reflect differences in design, materials, and occasionally minor feature additions rather than significant performance improvements. During Target sales events, these prices can drop even further, sometimes making the higher-end models available for as little as $12-15.

This pricing strategy places Heyday in an interesting position in the market. They’re more expensive than the absolute bottom-barrel headphones you might find at a gas station or dollar store, but significantly cheaper than entry-level offerings from established audio brands like Sony, JBL, or Skullcandy, which typically start around $30-40 for comparable wired models.

When you consider that many smartphones no longer include headphones in the box (or even headphone jacks, for that matter), having an affordable option like Heyday becomes increasingly valuable. They’re inexpensive enough to be essentially disposable if needed, yet durable enough that disposal shouldn’t be necessary for at least a year of regular use.

Availability: Where Can You Buy Them?

Here’s where things get a bit limiting: Heyday is Target’s exclusive in-house brand, which means these headphones are only officially available through Target stores and Target.com. You won’t find them at Best Buy, Amazon, or other electronics retailers.

This exclusivity has pros and cons. On the positive side, it means you can easily try them out in-store before purchasing—most Target locations have demo units available. It also means returns are straightforward if you’re not satisfied. The downside is limited availability if you don’t live near a Target, though their online store ships nationwide.

Occasionally, you might find Heyday products on third-party marketplaces like eBay or Facebook Marketplace, but these are typically resold items rather than official distribution channels. I’d recommend sticking with official Target sources to ensure you’re getting authentic products with valid warranty coverage.

Speaking of store experience, I’ve found that Target typically displays Heyday headphones in two locations: the main electronics department alongside other headphone brands, and in smaller displays near the front of the store with other Heyday accessories like phone cases and chargers. If you’re having trouble locating them, the distinctive Heyday packaging—usually featuring bright colors and clean, minimalist design—makes them easy to spot once you’re in the right section.

Compatibility: Will They Work With Your Devices?

This is where wired headphones generally shine: compatibility is rarely an issue. The standard 3.5mm audio jack works with:

• Most laptops and desktop computers
• Older smartphones and tablets
• Gaming consoles (via controller headphone jacks)
• MP3 players
• Airline entertainment systems
• Gym equipment with headphone jacks
• And virtually any other device with a standard headphone port

The notable exception, of course, is modern smartphones that have eliminated the headphone jack. If you’re using a recent iPhone or many Android flagships, you’ll need an adapter to use these headphones. Apple’s Lightning-to-3.5mm adapter costs around $9, while USB-C-to-3.5mm adapters for Android devices typically run $5-15 depending on quality.

Is this additional cost worth considering? Absolutely. Even with the adapter cost factored in, Heyday headphones plus an adapter still undercuts most wireless options. That said, if you frequently switch between devices or hate dealing with adapters, this could be a legitimate drawback worth considering before purchase.

The in-line controls work universally for volume adjustment, but the multi-function button behavior can vary slightly between iOS and Android. On both platforms, a single press handles play/pause and call answering, but the double and triple press functions (track skipping, voice assistant activation) may work differently or not at all depending on your specific device.

Microphone Performance: Taking Calls on the Go

Almost all Heyday wired headphone models include a built-in microphone, which is increasingly essential as headphones have evolved from pure listening devices to communication tools. The microphone is typically housed in the in-line control module along with the volume buttons and multi-function button.

In my experience, the microphone quality falls squarely into the “gets the job done” category. For quick phone calls in reasonably quiet environments, callers can hear me clearly without issues. The microphone picks up my voice well enough that I don’t have to hold it closer to my mouth or repeat myself frequently.

However, these aren’t headphones I’d choose for important business calls or extensive voice chat sessions. The microphones lack noise cancellation capabilities, meaning they pick up substantial background noise in busy environments like coffee shops, streets, or public transportation. They also don’t filter out wind noise particularly well when walking outside.

Compared to dedicated headsets or premium headphones with advanced microphone arrays, the difference is noticeable. But compared to other budget headphones in this price range? They’re competitive and certainly usable for occasional calls.

One small but useful detail: the microphone module is positioned at a height that makes it easy to speak into naturally without adjusting the cable, which isn’t always the case with budget headphones that sometimes place the mic too high or too low on the cable.

Sound Quality Deep Dive: What to Expect

I’ve touched on sound quality briefly, but let’s go deeper into what you can actually expect when listening to different types of content through Heyday wired headphones.

For music listening, these headphones deliver a surprisingly balanced sound profile that works well across multiple genres. Bass-heavy tracks like hip-hop and EDM have enough low-end punch to be enjoyable without overwhelming the mix. The bass isn’t as tight or controlled as premium headphones—you’ll notice some muddiness in complex bass passages—but it’s certainly present and pleasant.

Mid-range frequencies, where vocals and many instruments live, come through clearly. Female vocals in particular sound natural and present in the mix. Male vocals with deeper registers occasionally get slightly lost in the lower-mid frequencies, but not dramatically so.

The high frequencies lack some of the sparkle and detail you’d get from more expensive headphones. Cymbals, hi-hats, and the upper registers of instruments like violins or pianos don’t have the same airiness or separation you’d get from premium audio equipment. This is probably the most noticeable difference between Heyday and more expensive options.

For podcast and audiobook listening, Heyday headphones excel. The vocal-focused sound signature works well for spoken content, with voices coming through clearly and intelligibly. I’ve found them particularly good for long podcast sessions where comfort and vocal clarity matter more than absolute sound quality.

For video content, the performance is more than adequate. Dialog comes through clearly, and while you won’t get the cinematic experience of high-end headphones, the sound is balanced enough that explosions won’t blow out your eardrums while quiet dialogue remains audible.

Gaming performance is surprisingly decent for casual gaming. You can clearly hear directional audio cues in games, though the soundstage isn’t as expansive as gaming-specific headsets. For competitive gaming where audio positioning is crucial, you’ll want to invest in something more specialized, but for casual mobile or console gaming, they work well.

One aspect worth noting is sound leakage. The over-ear models contain sound reasonably well at moderate volumes, but at higher volumes, people nearby will definitely hear what you’re listening to. The on-ear models and earbuds leak considerably more sound. This isn’t unusual for headphones in this price range, but it’s something to be aware of if you’ll be using them in quiet environments like libraries or shared workspaces.

Style Options: Colors and Design Variations

If there’s one area where Heyday truly stands out from other budget headphone options, it’s in aesthetic variety. Target clearly understands that headphones aren’t just audio devices—they’re also fashion accessories that many people wear daily.

The color and design options for Heyday wired headphones change seasonally, but typically include:

• Classic solid colors (black, white, navy)
• Bright statement colors (teal, coral, purple)
• Metallic finishes (rose gold, silver)
• Two-tone designs with contrasting ear cups and headbands
• Occasional patterns (marble effect, subtle geometric prints)
• Limited edition seasonal colors and designs

This variety is refreshing in the budget headphone market, where options under $30 typically come in “any color you want as long as it’s black.” The design aesthetic trends toward clean, minimalist lines with occasional playful touches rather than the aggressive styling of some gaming headsets or the overtly youthful approach of some other budget brands.

The materials and finishes generally look more premium than the price would suggest. Matte surfaces predominate, with metallic accents used sparingly for contrast. The branding is subtle—typically just a small Heyday logo on each ear cup—rather than the prominent brand names plastered across many competing products.

For those who prefer to make less of a statement, the black and navy options blend in well with professional attire. For those who view headphones as a form of self-expression, the brighter colors and special editions offer plenty of opportunities to coordinate with outfits or simply stand out from the crowd.

Comfort: Can You Wear Them All Day?

Comfort is highly subjective when it comes to headphones, depending on head size, ear shape, and personal sensitivity. That said, Heyday headphones offer reasonable comfort for their price point, with some caveats.

The over-ear models feature cushioned ear cups that fully surround the ear. The padding isn’t as plush as premium headphones, using standard foam rather than memory foam, but it’s sufficient for several hours of wear. The headband padding is minimal but adequate, and the clamping force—how tightly the headphones press against your head—strikes a good balance between security and comfort for most head sizes.

The on-ear models are naturally less isolating and potentially less comfortable for extended wear, as they rest directly on the ears rather than around them. This design can cause more fatigue over time, especially for those who wear glasses, as the pressure points where glasses frames meet the headphones can become uncomfortable after 1-2 hours.

The earbuds come with multiple silicone tip sizes to accommodate different ear canals. Finding the right fit is crucial for both comfort and sound quality with any earbuds. I found the medium tips worked well for my ears, creating a secure seal without causing discomfort, but your experience may vary.

Weight is a significant comfort factor for headphones, and Heyday models are notably lightweight compared to many alternatives. The over-ear models weigh approximately 180-220 grams (varying by specific model), which is light enough to prevent neck fatigue during extended listening sessions.

Temperature is another consideration—all closed-back headphones trap heat to some degree. The Heyday over-ears can make your ears warm after extended use, especially in hot weather, but not dramatically more than other closed-back designs at any price point. The on-ear models allow more airflow and run cooler as a result.

For my typical use case—2-3 hour listening sessions—comfort has never been an issue. For all-day wear (8+ hours), you might want to consider more premium options with higher-quality materials specifically designed for extended comfort.

Durability: Will They Last?

This is perhaps the most surprising aspect of my experience with Heyday headphones. Budget headphones are notoriously fragile, often breaking within months of regular use. My expectations for Heyday were similarly low, yet they’ve proven remarkably resilient.

After six months of daily use, including being stuffed into bags, accidentally sat on, dropped several times, and generally treated with the casual disregard I show to most electronics, my over-ear Heyday headphones show minimal signs of wear. The hinges still work smoothly, no cracks have developed in the plastic, and the ear cushions remain intact with only minor compression.

The cable, often the first point of failure in wired headphones, has held up without developing shorts or connection issues. The strain relief (the reinforced section where the cable meets the plug) is well-designed, preventing the common problem of cable fraying near the connector.

That said, these are still budget headphones with predominantly plastic construction. The sliding mechanism for adjusting the headband feels less robust than the rest of the design, and I suspect this might be the first point of failure with very heavy use. The ear cup pivots are also potential weak points, though they’ve shown no issues in my testing.

For comparison, I’ve owned $100+ headphones that developed serious issues within the same timeframe, from failing cables to cracked headbands. While I wouldn’t expect Heyday headphones to last for many years of heavy use, they seem engineered to survive well beyond what their price point would suggest.

If you’re someone who is particularly rough on headphones or needs something that can withstand extreme conditions, you might still want to consider more rugged options specifically designed for durability. But for normal daily use, Heyday’s durability is more than adequate.

Cable Management: The Tangle Problem

Anyone who’s used wired headphones knows the frustration of pulling them from a pocket or bag to find an impossible knot that seems to defy the laws of physics. How did they get so tangled in the five minutes since you put them away?

Heyday addresses this common annoyance with flat cables on most of their models. The ribbon-like design significantly reduces tangling compared to traditional round cables, though it doesn’t eliminate the problem entirely. After countless cycles of stuffing the headphones into my bag and retrieving them later, I’ve found that while they do still tangle occasionally, the knots are typically less complex and easier to undo quickly.

The cable length is approximately 1.2 meters (about 4 feet) on most models, which is long enough to reach a phone in your pocket or a laptop on a desk, but not so long that excess cable becomes a nuisance. This length works well for most everyday scenarios, though it might be slightly short if you’re trying to connect to a desktop computer under a desk or other distant audio source.

For storage, Heyday headphones don’t come with a carrying case or pouch, which is understandable given the price point but still a bit disappointing. I’ve found that a small drawstring bag or even a glasses case works well for protecting the earbuds when not in use. The over-ear models fold flat but don’t collapse further, making them less portable than some competitors that fold into a more compact shape.

If you’re particularly bothered by cable tangling, there are some simple aftermarket solutions like small cable organizers or even just a binder clip that can help keep your headphones neatly wrapped when not in use.

Gaming Performance: Can You Game With Them?

Gaming has become a significant use case for headphones, with many manufacturers creating gaming-specific models. While Heyday headphones aren’t marketed specifically for gaming, they can certainly handle casual gaming needs.

For mobile gaming, they work excellently. The balanced sound profile means you can clearly hear both game audio and character dialogue, and the microphone is adequate for occasional voice chat in games like Fortnite Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile.

For console gaming, the experience depends somewhat on your expectations. When plugged into a controller’s 3.5mm jack, they deliver clear audio with decent positional cues. You can generally tell the direction of footsteps or gunfire, though the soundstage isn’t as expansive as dedicated gaming headsets that emphasize spatial awareness.

For PC gaming, particularly competitive titles where audio positioning is crucial, Heyday headphones are functional but not ideal. They lack the precise imaging and expanded soundstage of gaming-focused headsets, and the microphone doesn’t include noise cancellation features that help in team communication.

One notable limitation for gaming is the lack of virtual surround sound, which many gaming headsets offer. This technology simulates a more three-dimensional audio experience, which can be particularly useful in games where spatial awareness matters.

For casual gamers who primarily play single-player games or aren’t competing at high levels in multiplayer titles, Heyday headphones are more than adequate. For serious competitive gamers, they’re better as a backup option than a primary gaming headset.

Modern Smartphone Compatibility: The Adapter Question

As mentioned earlier, the transition away from headphone jacks in modern smartphones presents a compatibility challenge for any wired headphones, including Heyday models. Is it worth dealing with adapters, or should you just go wireless?

The adapter situation isn’t ideal, but it’s manageable. Apple’s Lightning-to-3.5mm adapter ($9) works reliably with iPhones, while various USB-C adapters work for Android devices without headphone jacks. Some Android phone manufacturers include an adapter in the box, though this practice is becoming less common.

The primary annoyance with adapters is that they’re yet another small item to keep track of and potentially lose. They also prevent charging your phone while using wired headphones unless you purchase a more expensive adapter with a charging pass-through port.

In practical terms, I’ve found that keeping the adapter permanently attached to my Heyday headphones works best, essentially making them into “Lightning headphones” or “USB-C headphones” depending on your device. This reduces the likelihood of forgetting or losing the adapter when you need it.

Is this extra hassle worth it compared to just buying wireless headphones? It depends on your priorities. Even with the added adapter cost, Heyday wired headphones plus an adapter are still significantly cheaper than most wireless options with comparable sound quality. They also never need charging, have zero latency (important for gaming and video watching), and typically offer better sound quality per dollar than wireless alternatives.

For many users, the convenience of wireless ultimately wins out despite these advantages. But if you’re budget-conscious, prioritize sound quality, or simply prefer not having another device to keep charged, the adapter compromise might be well worth it.

Warranty and Customer Service

Heyday products typically come with a one-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects, which is standard for headphones in this price range. The warranty is handled through Target, which simplifies the process compared to dealing with third-party manufacturers.

In practice, if you encounter issues within the warranty period, you can simply return the headphones to any Target store with your receipt for a replacement or refund. Target’s general return policy also allows returns within 90 days even without a manufacturing defect, which provides additional peace of mind when purchasing.

For issues beyond the warranty period, there’s unfortunately not much recourse. Unlike some premium headphone brands that offer repair services or replacement parts, Heyday headphones are essentially designed to be replaced rather than repaired when they eventually fail. This planned obsolescence is common for products in this price tier, though it does raise environmental concerns about electronic waste.

On the customer service front, Target’s general customer service handles Heyday product inquiries. In my limited interactions regarding a question about compatibility, the service was prompt and helpful, though representatives don’t always have deep technical knowledge about specific Heyday products.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Keeping headphones clean not only extends their lifespan but also prevents the buildup of ear wax and oils that can affect both hygiene and sound quality. Fortunately, Heyday headphones are relatively easy to maintain with some basic care.

For the over-ear and on-ear models, the ear cushions can be wiped down with a slightly damp cloth or alcohol wipe. Avoid soaking the cushions, as excessive moisture can damage the internal components. The plastic surfaces can be cleaned with standard electronics wipes or a slightly damp microfiber cloth.

For earbuds, regular cleaning is even more important as they sit directly in your ear canal. The silicone tips can be removed and washed with mild soap and water, then thoroughly dried before reattaching. The earbuds themselves should be cleaned with a dry cotton swab to remove any wax buildup from the sound ports.

The cable can be wiped down with a damp cloth if it becomes dirty, though avoid getting moisture in the in-line control module or near the connectors.

Unlike some premium headphones, Heyday models don’t have replaceable ear pads or cables. When these components wear out, the entire headphone typically needs replacement. This is a common limitation at this price point and reflects the “affordable but disposable” nature of budget audio products.

Portability: On-the-Go Convenience

How easily can you take Heyday headphones with you? This varies significantly by model.

The earbuds are naturally the most portable, easily fitting into a pocket or small compartment in a bag. Without a carrying case, they’re prone to tangling and potential damage, so I’d recommend at least a small pouch for protection.

The on-ear models offer a middle ground, folding flat but not completely collapsing. They can fit into a backpack or large purse without taking up too much space, though they’re bulkier than earbuds.

The over-ear models are the least portable, as they only fold flat rather than collapsing inward like some more travel-oriented designs. They’ll fit in a backpack but take up significant space and aren’t suitable for jacket pockets or smaller bags.

Weight-wise, all Heyday models are relatively lightweight, which is a plus for portability. The over-ears typically weigh around 180-220 grams, the on-ears about 140-180 grams, and the earbuds just a few grams. This makes them comfortable to carry even on long commutes or travel days.

For air travel specifically, wired headphones like Heyday models have the advantage of working with in-flight entertainment systems, unlike Bluetooth headphones that require special adapters. The passive noise isolation of the over-ear models helps somewhat with airplane noise, though they lack the active noise cancellation that makes premium travel headphones so effective in loud environments.

Comparing Heyday to Other Budget Brands

How do Heyday headphones stack up against other options in the budget segment? Here’s a brief comparison with some common alternatives in the same price range:

JLab Audio offers slightly cheaper wired options (often $10-15), but in my experience, the build quality and sound are noticeably inferior to Heyday. Their wired models often have a very bass-heavy, unbalanced sound signature that quickly becomes fatiguing.

Skullcandy’s entry-level wired models (around $20-30) compete more directly with Heyday. They typically offer bolder styling but similar sound quality. In side-by-side testing, I found Heyday’s sound slightly more balanced, while Skullcandy tends to emphasize bass more heavily. Skullcandy has better brand recognition but not necessarily better performance at this price point.

Sony’s budget wired headphones (typically $15-25) offer a more neutral sound profile compared to Heyday but often with less impressive build quality in my experience. Sony’s entry-level models benefit from the company’s audio expertise but suffer from cost-cutting in materials and construction.

Panasonic’s ultra-budget earbuds (often under $10) are legendary for their performance-to-price ratio but lack the style and comfort features of Heyday products. They’re utilitarian rather than fashionable, which may or may not matter to you.

The key advantage Heyday seems to have over most competitors in this price range is the balance between style, build quality, and sound performance. Where many budget brands excel in one area but sacrifice others, Heyday maintains a more consistent standard across all three dimensions.

That said, none of these budget options—including Heyday—can compete with mid-tier headphones in the $50-100 range from established audio brands. The jump in quality from $20 to $50 headphones is typically more significant than the jump from $50 to $100, making that mid-tier range the sweet spot for value-conscious buyers who can stretch their budget.

Final Verdict: Are Heyday Wired Headphones Worth Buying?

After extensive testing and daily use, my conclusion is that Heyday wired headphones represent excellent value for certain types of users:

For budget-conscious buyers who need decent audio without breaking the bank, Heyday offers sound quality and durability that punches above its weight class. The balanced audio profile works well for multiple content types, and the build quality has proven more resilient than expected.

For style-conscious consumers who view headphones as both tech and fashion, Heyday’s diverse color options and clean aesthetic offer far more choice than most budget brands. You can coordinate with outfits or personal style without paying the premium that fashion-forward audio brands typically command.

For parents buying for teens or tweens, Heyday hits a sweet spot of affordability, durability, and style that makes them perfect for younger users who might not treat expensive electronics gently. They’re inexpensive enough that replacement isn’t a financial crisis if they’re lost or broken.

For commuters or travelers who don’t want to worry about battery life or charging yet another device, the wired design eliminates the battery anxiety that comes with wireless headphones. They’re always ready when you need them, with no charging required.

However, they’re less ideal for:

Audiophiles seeking nuanced, detailed sound reproduction will find Heyday headphones pleasant but lacking the refinement of higher-end audio equipment. They’re good for the price but can’t compete with specialized audio gear.

Serious gamers who need precise spatial audio and high-quality microphones for competitive play should invest in dedicated gaming headsets instead.

Business professionals who spend hours daily on calls would benefit from headsets with better microphones and noise cancellation features.

Active users who need workout-friendly features like water resistance and secure fit might find Heyday’s standard designs less suitable for high-movement activities.

In the final analysis, Heyday wired headphones occupy a valuable niche in the market: affordable audio that doesn’t feel cheap. They bridge the gap between disposable gas station headphones and more expensive brand-name options, offering a compelling middle ground that satisfies basic audio needs while adding a touch of style.

Are they the best headphones available? Of course not. But they might be among the best values in consumer audio, delivering 70% of the experience of headphones costing three times as much, at a fraction of the price. In a world where audio equipment often feels unnecessarily expensive, that’s an achievement worth recognizing.