Buying headphones used is one of the easiest ways to get flagship sound without paying flagship prices. eBay in particular is packed with lightly used, open-box, and certified refurbished pairs from sellers with verified feedback histories, and its buyer protection program makes second-hand purchases far less risky than they used to be.

This guide covers eight of the best headphones to look for secondhand on eBay, spanning noise-cancelling commuter picks, studio monitors, and open-back audiophile classics. For each one we cover what to expect, what to check before buying, and roughly what a fair used price looks like.

## 1. [Sony WH-1000XM4](https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Sony+WH-1000XM4+used)

The WH-1000XM4 was Sony's flagship noise-cancelling headphone for two generations, and now that the XM5 and XM6 have taken over the top spot, clean used XM4 units are flooding eBay at a fraction of retail. They're ideal for commuters, frequent flyers, and remote workers who want excellent active noise cancellation without paying near-$350 for the newest model.

### Pros:
- Excellent adaptive noise cancellation that still competes with newer flagships.
- Comfortable, lightweight design suited for all-day wear.
- Multipoint Bluetooth pairing and a well-regarded companion app.
- Foldable design makes it easy to store and travel with.
- Widely available used, which keeps prices competitive.

### Cons:
- Ear pads degrade with age and may need replacing on older units.
- Battery health varies by unit and isn't something a listing photo can show you.

Because the XM4 sold in huge numbers, used listings range from lightly worn open-box units to well-loved pairs with visible ear-pad wear. Ask the seller for the manufacture date or serial number so you can gauge battery age, and favor listings that show the charging case, cable, and carrying pouch included. A fair used price typically lands well under half of the original retail cost.

Search current listings [here](https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Sony+WH-1000XM4+used).

## 2. [Bose QuietComfort 35 II](https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Bose+QuietComfort+35+II+used)

The Bose QC35 II remains one of the most comfortable noise-cancelling headphones ever made, and it's a favorite on the used market for anyone who wants Bose's signature plush fit without the premium price of the newer QuietComfort Ultra. It suits students, office workers, and travelers who prioritize comfort and simplicity over the latest features.

### Pros:
- Exceptionally soft ear cushions and headband for long listening sessions.
- Simple, intuitive controls with reliable Bluetooth performance.
- Strong noise cancellation for engine and cabin noise on flights.
- Lightweight build that holds up well over years of use.

### Cons:
- Sound signature is bass-forward rather than neutral, which won't suit every listener.
- Older micro-USB charging port on earlier units instead of USB-C.

Because the QC35 II has been on the market for years, used prices are very forgiving, and it's common to find pairs in excellent cosmetic condition. Check listing photos closely for cracking around the hinges, a common wear point, and confirm the case and charging cable are included.

Search current listings [here](https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Bose+QuietComfort+35+II+used).

## 3. [Sennheiser HD 600](https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Sennheiser+HD+600+used)

The HD 600 is a reference-grade open-back headphone that has barely changed since its release, which makes it one of the safest audiophile purchases on the used market. It's a go-to recommendation for anyone getting into critical listening, mixing, or mastering on a budget, since parts and ear pads are still sold new today.

### Pros:
- Neutral, well-documented sound signature favored by audio engineers.
- Extremely repairable design with widely available replacement parts.
- Open-back construction gives a spacious, natural soundstage.
- Holds its value well, so resale risk is low if it's not the right fit.

### Cons:
- Requires a dedicated headphone amp to sound its best, an added cost.
- Open-back design leaks sound, so it's not suited for shared or noisy spaces.

Because the HD 600 is largely mechanical, condition matters less than with wireless headphones. Look for original cables and confirm the ear pads haven't gone stiff or worn through, since replacements are an easy but added expense.

Search current listings [here](https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Sennheiser+HD+600+used).

## 4. [Audio-Technica ATH-M50x](https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Audio-Technica+ATH-M50x+used)

The ATH-M50x is one of the best-selling studio headphones of all time, and its popularity means the used market is deep with options at every condition and price point. It's a strong pick for podcasters, home studio owners, and anyone who wants a durable, closed-back monitor for tracking and mixing.

### Pros:
- Detachable cable design makes replacing a damaged cord simple and cheap.
- Durable build that holds up well to years of studio use.
- Balanced, slightly bass-boosted sound that translates well across genres.
- Swivel ear cups fold flat for easy transport and storage.

### Cons:
- Clamping force can feel tight for listeners with larger heads.
- Ear pads compress over time and are a common used-market wear item.

Since the M50x has been sold since 2014 with only minor revisions, almost any used pair will work with current cables and replacement pads. Prioritize listings that mention a working headband and hinge, since those are the parts most likely to loosen with age.

Search current listings [here](https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Audio-Technica+ATH-M50x+used).

## 5. [Sony MDR-7506](https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Sony+MDR-7506+used)

The MDR-7506 has been a broadcast and studio staple since the 1990s, and its simple, all-metal construction means used pairs from decades ago can still perform like new. It's especially popular with musicians, video editors, and podcasters who want a reliable monitoring headphone that's cheap to replace if lost or damaged.

### Pros:
- Rugged, largely metal construction built for professional daily use.
- Accurate, detailed sound that's become an industry reference.
- Coiled cable and foldable design suited for studio and field work.
- Very affordable even brand new, so used prices are a genuine bargain.

### Cons:
- Ear pads are foam-based and wear out faster than pleather alternatives.
- Non-detachable cable means a damaged cord isn't a simple swap.

Because the MDR-7506 has barely changed in thirty years, age isn't a major concern as long as the headband tag and cable are intact. Foam ear pad replacement is inexpensive, so don't be put off by a listing with worn pads if the price reflects it.

Search current listings [here](https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Sony+MDR-7506+used).

## 6. [Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro](https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Beyerdynamic+DT+770+Pro+used)

The DT 770 Pro is a closed-back studio headphone known for its durability and velour comfort, making it a favorite for long mixing sessions and gaming. Beyerdynamic sells nearly every replacement part individually, which makes used units an especially low-risk buy compared to sealed, non-repairable headphones.

### Pros:
- Velour ear pads stay comfortable through multi-hour sessions.
- Fully repairable with official replacement parts sold by Beyerdynamic.
- Strong isolation thanks to its closed-back design.
- Available in multiple impedance versions to match different amps.

### Cons:
- Bass-forward tuning that some mixing engineers find less neutral than rivals.
- Higher impedance versions need a dedicated amp to reach full volume.

Check which impedance version a used listing is selling, since the 32-ohm model suits phones and consoles while the 250-ohm version needs an amplifier. Because parts are so easy to source, even a well-worn pair can be restored cheaply.

Search current listings [here](https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Beyerdynamic+DT+770+Pro+used).

## 7. [Apple AirPods Max](https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Apple+AirPods+Max+used)

The AirPods Max brought Apple's ecosystem features to a premium over-ear headphone, and since it carries a high original price, used and refurbished units on eBay offer some of the biggest savings on this list. It's best suited to iPhone and Mac users who want tight integration with Apple devices alongside strong noise cancellation.

### Pros:
- Excellent build quality with a stainless steel headband frame.
- Seamless switching between Apple devices signed into the same account.
- Strong active noise cancellation and transparency mode.
- Spatial audio support for compatible content.

### Cons:
- Noticeably heavier than most over-ear competitors.
- The Smart Case is a common missing accessory on used listings.

Since the AirPods Max has no physical power button and relies on a case for standby, confirm the listing includes the Smart Case, as an aftermarket replacement negates part of the savings. Battery health also can't be verified from photos, so favor sellers with detailed return policies.

Search current listings [here](https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Apple+AirPods+Max+used).

## 8. [Grado SR80x](https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Grado+SR80x+used)

The Grado SR80x is a budget audiophile favorite known for its lively, energetic sound and old-school open-back design. It's a great choice for at-home listeners who care more about musicality than isolation, and its simple driver-and-housing construction makes it one of the easiest headphones on this list to inspect secondhand.

### Pros:
- Energetic, detailed sound that punches well above its price point.
- Lightweight, minimalist design that's comfortable for long sessions.
- Simple construction with few parts that can fail.
- Easy to drive from phones and laptops without a separate amp.

### Cons:
- Foam ear pads wear out quickly and noticeably change the sound when they do.
- Open-back design leaks sound and isolates poorly, unsuitable for shared spaces.

Because Grado's foam pads compress within months of regular use, factor a pad replacement into your budget when buying used, even if the listing photos look clean. The driver housings themselves are durable and rarely fail.

Search current listings [here](https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Grado+SR80x+used).

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Is It Safe To Buy Used Headphones On eBay?

Buying used headphones on eBay is generally safe thanks to eBay's Money Back Guarantee, which covers items that arrive not as described. Favor sellers with high feedback scores and detailed photos of the actual unit being sold.

### What Should I Check Before Buying Used Headphones?

Look for clear photos of the ear pads, hinges, and cable, and ask the seller about battery health for wireless models. Confirm what accessories, such as the case or charging cable, are actually included in the sale.

### Are Wired Or Wireless Headphones A Safer Used Purchase?

Wired, driver-based headphones like studio monitors are generally lower risk since there's no battery to degrade over time. Wireless headphones can still be a great value, but battery wear is harder to verify before buying.

### Can I Replace Worn Parts On Used Headphones?

Many popular studio and audiophile models, including the ATH-M50x, DT 770 Pro, and HD 600, have widely available replacement ear pads and cables. This makes it easy to restore a used pair to like-new condition for a small additional cost.

### Do Used Headphones Come With A Warranty?

Most used headphones sold by individual sellers don't carry a manufacturer warranty, though eBay's buyer protection still applies to the transaction. Listings labeled "eBay Refurbished" or "Certified Refurbished" typically include their own seller warranty.

### How Much Can I Save Buying Headphones Used Instead Of New?

Savings vary widely, but popular models often sell for 30 to 60 percent less used than their original retail price. Older flagship models, like a previous-generation noise-cancelling headphone, tend to offer the deepest discounts once a newer version has launched.

## Conclusion

Buying headphones used on eBay is one of the smartest ways to get flagship comfort and sound without paying flagship prices, as long as you know what to check before clicking buy. Noise-cancelling favorites like the Sony WH-1000XM4 and Bose QC35 II offer huge savings once newer models take their place at retail, while studio classics like the Sony MDR-7506 and Audio-Technica ATH-M50x are so repairable that age barely matters.

Audiophile picks like the Sennheiser HD 600 and Grado SR80x hold their value well and are simple to inspect before buying, and even premium options like the Apple AirPods Max become far more accessible secondhand. Whichever pair you choose, favor sellers with strong feedback, detailed photos, and clear accessory lists, and you'll come away with a great pair of headphones for a fraction of the retail pr