10 Best Digital-Analog-Converters (DAC) Under $100
Are you searching for the best DAC under $100, but so far haven’t anything you like in the marketplace? We have done the research and found ten DACs that increase overall audio quality. Each product has a mini-review, which you can read to get a better understanding of what to expect upon purchasing. Also, every DAC is rated on a scale from 1 to 5, so you know the quality before reading the review.
Furthermore, if you’ve never bought a budget DAC before we’ve created a buying consideration section. There you will learn about features a DAC can have and which ones are most relevant to your needs. Even if you don’t buy from us at least, you will have gained the necessary knowledge to purchase elsewhere. We hope you enjoy reading this buyer’s guide as much as we did writing it.
| Budget |
|---|
 |
| Fosi Audio DAC |
| 4.8/5.0 |
| Weight: 21.76 Ounces |
| Bluetooth: No |
| AUX input lets you insert 3.5mm and 6.3mm cables. |
| Check Amazon |
| Best Value |
|---|
 |
| Cambridge Audio DacMagic XS DAC |
| 4.9/5.0 |
| Weight: 1.6 Ounces |
| Bluetooth: No |
| This improves audio quality drastically. |
| Check Amazon |
| Top Pick |
|---|
 |
| EarStudio ES100-24bit DAC |
| 4.9/5.0 |
| Weight: 0.64 Ounces |
| Bluetooth: Yes |
| This has an advanced Bluetooth chipset. |
| Check Amazon |
Buying Considerations
Sampling Rate
Connectivity
Durability
Practicality
DAC Under $100 Comparison Table
| Make and Model | Weight | Bluetooth | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| EarStudio ES100-24bit DAC | 0.64 Ounces | Yes | Check Price |
| Cambridge Audio DacMagic XS DAC | 1.6 Ounces | No | Check Price |
| Fosi Audio DAC | 21.76 Ounces | No | Check Price |
| FiiO E10K USB DAC | 2.72 Ounces | No | Check Price |
| eSynic 192kHz DAC | 6.4 Ounces | No | Check Price |
| FiiO D3 DAC | 4 Ounces | No | Check Price |
| Neoteck 192kHz DAC | 5.8 Ounces | No | Check Price |
| Avantree DAC | 2.88 Ounces | No | Check Price |
| LiNKFOR 192kHz DAC | 7 Ounces | No | Check Price |
| PROZOR Digital DAC | 3.2 Ounces | No | Check Price |
1. Top Pick: EarStudio ES100-24bit DAC
Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5
The EarStudio ES100-24bit DAC uses a Qualcomm CSR8675 chipset with the latest Bluetooth software stack, which provides stable connections throughout the listening session. The DAC uses an abundance of wireless technologies such as aptX HD and ACC that makes the audio sound improved and almost lifelike.
The EarStudio ES100-24bit DAC has two AK4375a (one for each channel) that provides superior high-fidelity audio. The device offers an application that works with iOS and Android. The app lets you tune the audio to your preferences by adjusting the bass and treble. The program comes with multiple presets, so if you’re unsure how to tune the drivers, you can experiment with the presets. Also, once the DAC is switched off it will automatically save the settings.
The DAC comes with a 350 mA battery that delivers up to 14 hours of playback time. Due to the small battery charging, times are super short, so if you forget to charge the device before going out, you can quickly plug it in for a few hours of playback time. Also, the DAC is easy to use because it has multiple built-in buttons that offer easy access.
The DAC is one of the more expensive options on the list, and it will use the whole $100 budget. Also, going out of the Bluetooth range will disconnect the device or lead to the audio quality dropping.
To summarize, the EarStudio ES100-24bit DAC is one of the best budget options available that deliver high-quality audio. The 350 mA battery produces up to 14 hours of playback time, which makes it a great device to take on trips. The DAC comes with an equalizer app that lets you customize the audio to your preferences. Also, the Bluetooth chipset with aptX technology provides stable connections throughout the session.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Weight: 0.64 ounces |
| Battery life: 14 Hours |
| Bluetooth: Yes |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Advanced Bluetooth chipset |
| Comes with EQ application |
| Long battery life |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Will use the whole budget |
| Must stay within the Bluetooth range |
2. Best Value: Cambridge Audio DacMagic XS DAC
Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5
The Cambridge Audio DacMagic XS DAC is a brilliant option because it will enhance your audio thanks to the multiple technologies used. The device is compatible with Mac laptops, which will produce incredible audio quality. Usually, a laptop will output around 15 – 20 mW that results in weak bass. However, with the DAC the output is a massive 105 mW, which leads to detailed sound with powerful bass.
The DAC is easily portable thanks to the light, compact design. The device uses an aluminum case to protect the drivers inside, which provides a long-lasting product. The speaker design is simple and beginner-friendly. The two built-in volume buttons let you adjust the sound without the need to touch your laptop.
The speaker comes in five color design, which looks excellent and gives you more personalization. The audio has a lot of detail thanks to the wide frequency response of 20 Hz – 20k Hz. Also, the DAC supports 3.5mm AUX wires, which makes the Cambridge Audio DacMagic compatible with most devices.
The DAC doesn’t support Bluetooth, which means you won’t get convenient wireless connectivity. Also, the overall design is durable, but the style of the DAC looks basic and lacks unique features.
To summarize, the Cambridge Audio DacMagic XS DAC is an excellent choice if you want to upgrade audio for your laptop. The 20 Hz – 20k Hz frequency response means that audio will have more detail compared to other options. The DAC comes in five color styles, which means you can personalize the look. Also, you get a two-year warranty upon purchasing the Cambridge Audio DacMagic XS DAC.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Weight: 1.6 ounces |
| Battery life: N / A |
| Bluetooth: No |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Improves audio quality drastically |
| Five color designs |
| Comes with a two-year warranty |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Doesn’t have Bluetooth |
| Basic visual design |
3. Best Budget: Fosi Audio DAC
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5
The Fosi Audio DAC is an excellent choice since it can deliver HiFi audio that makes any song sound enhanced. The audio output has incredible detail thanks to the 10 Hz – 20k Hz frequency response. The input sampling rate goes up to 192 kHz, which means the DAC can handle multiple audio formats.
The unique input hole lets you plug in headphones that have 3.5mm and 6.35mm AUX wires. The volume control can adjust the RCA output as well as the headphone output. The DAC offers multiple methods of connection such as USB, COAXIAL, OPTICAL, and AUX.
The speaker design looks great because simplicity makes the device easy to use. The front dial lets you adjust the volume without the need to touch other speakers or laptop. The materials used to create the DAC are super durable, which ensures a long-lasting product. Also, the DAC comes in three color styles, so you can select the one that matches your preferences best.
The DAC isn’t easily portable and is only suitable for home use, so if you need a travel option consider our other options. Also, the DAC doesn’t feature a built-in EQ, which means you can’t tune the audio to your preferences with the device.
To summarize, the Fosi Audio DAC is a brilliant choice because it can deliver HiFi audio. The three color designs offer you more personalization so you can match your setup style. The front input lets you insert 3.5mm and 6.3mm AUX cables. The audio has a lot more detail thanks to the 10 Hz – 20k Hz frequency response.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Weight: 21.76 ounces |
| Battery life: N / A |
| Bluetooth: No |
| The Pros |
|---|
| 10 Hz – 20k Hz frequency response |
| AUX input lets you insert 3.5mm and 6.3mm cables |
| The front dial lets you adjust the volume |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Not portable |
| No built-in EQ |
4. FiiO E10K USB DAC
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.8/5
The FiiO E10K USB DAC can handle PCM files up to 24-bit/96 kHz while improving audio quality via a linear filter. The DAC reduces delay and internal silence when changing tracks with no phase shifts. The device has an optimized low-pass filter and selectable bass boost for people who enjoy lows.
The DAC is easy to connect because it features a micro USB input, which lets you play music from your laptop. The device doesn’t need charging since the power comes from the USB cable. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about charging DAC before listening to music or watching movies.
The device features a sleek portable design so that you can easily pack it with your laptop when traveling. The aluminum shell protects the chipsets inside, which prevents small drops from damaging the device. Also, the dial and bass button makes the device simple to use. Also, there are three designs to choose from, which lets you pick the color that matches your setup best.
Any accidental water spills onto the DAC will damage the microchips easily so keep it on safe surfaces. Also, the bass filter can increase the lows to a point where you can hear distortion depending on the song.
To conclude, the FiiO E10K USB DAC is a great choice because it can deliver supreme audio quality. The DAC features a bass boosting filter, which increase the lows to the maximum. The device is easy to connect thanks to the USB input located at the back. Also, the DAC comes in three color styles, which offers you personalization.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Weight: 2.72 ounces |
| Battery life: N / A |
| Bluetooth: No |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Durable case |
| Bass boosting feature |
| Easy to use |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Liquid can damage the drivers easily |
| Bass booster can lead to distortion with some songs |
5. eSynic 192kHz DAC
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.6/5
The eSynic 192kHz DAC uses a frequency response of 10 Hz – 20k Hz, which means the audio will have more detail. The advanced chipsets deliver zero total harmonic distortion that makes songs sound high-quality. Also, the sampling rate is 192 kHz 24 bit for smooth streaming on the left and right channels.
The aluminum case protects the chipsets inside from accidental falls. The smooth shell feels nice when holding and you can tell that the product is long-lasting. The DAC is easy to use because it features multiple inputs and volume dials. Also, the light and compact design is easily portable, so you can change your setup when needed.
Upon purchase, you’ll get a digital to analog audio converter, Toslink cable, power adapter, and a user manual. When using headphones make sure that the AUX cable isn’t damaged to keep the transmitted waves from getting distorted. Also, this DAC is compatible with Xbox and Blu-ray devices.
The eSynic 192kHz DAC is a budget option so it won’t perform as well as other DACs. Also, the DAC doesn’t come with a built-in battery, so you can’t use it wirelessly.
To summarize, the eSynic DAC is a brilliant choice because it has a sampling rate of 192 kHz 24 bit. The frequency response is 10 Hz – 20k Hz, which helps deliver more detail in the audio. The device offers multiple methods of connection such as optical, coaxial, and AUX. Also, the aluminum case protects the chipsets inside from accidental falls.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Weight: 6.4 ounces |
| Battery life: N / A |
| Bluetooth: No |
| The Pros |
|---|
| 10 Hz – 20k Hz frequency response |
| The sampling rate is 192 kHz 24 bit |
| Multiple methods of connection |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Doesn’t perform as well as other options |
| No built-in warranty |
6. FiiO D3 DAC
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.6/5
The FiiO D3 DAC has a built-in high-performance phase locked loop, which improves overall audio quality. The DAC supports 192 kHz 24-bit audio signal. Therefore, the device supports most formats and increase music detail. The audio will have more detail because of the wide frequency response of 20 Hz – 20k Hz.
The DAC offers multiple methods of connection, which means most devices are compatible with this product. The optical and coaxial inputs have selection switches, which let you connect audio devices like bookshelf speakers. Also, there is a 3.5mm jack for headphones and earbuds.
The total harmonic distortion is less than 0.01%, which means you can play bass boosted songs without worrying about losing quality. The DAC doesn’t need charging because it comes with an AC adapter that provides power to the device. Also, if you don’t know how to set up the DAC, there is a user manual which is easy to understand.
The device isn’t great if you want a portable DAC because it doesn’t have a built-in battery and need a power supply. Also, the DAC comes with a 6 feet optical Toslink digital audio cable, which may not be long enough for some home setups.
To conclude, the FiiO D3 DAC is excellent for home use because it comes with an AC adapter that provides power. The DAC offers multiple methods of connection such as 3.5mm AUX, optical Toslink cable, and coaxial. The total harmonic distortion is less than 0,01%, which means you can play intense songs without problems.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Weight: 4 ounces |
| Battery life: N / A |
| Bluetooth: No |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Less than 0.01% harmonic distortion |
| Supports 192 kHz 24-bit |
| Multiple methods of connection |
| The Cons |
|---|
| 6 feet optical Toslink cable may not be long enough |
| Not portable |
7. Neoteck 192kHz DAC
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.5/5
The Neoteck DAC supports sampling rates at 32, 44.1, 48, 96, and 192 kHz 24-bit. Therefore, the audio will sound enhanced and better than usual. The DAC eliminates noise when there is no input signal and automatically mutes when inputs and non-audio signal. Also, located at the front is a volume dial for easy audio adjustment.
The DAC offers multiple methods of connection, which means the device will never become outdated if you want to switch speakers. The front has a 3.5mm AUX input for headphones and two RCA outputs for speakers. The device is compatible with Blu-ray players, 5.1 surround audio sound systems and televisions.
The DAC comes with an aluminum metal shell, which makes it durable from accidental falls and scratches. The device is heat-resistant so don’t worry about leaving it in the sun. Also, the overall design of the DAC looks stylish and feels nice when holding.
The DAC isn’t portable and comes with no built-in battery, so you can’t take it on the road to increase audio quality. The device is super durable, but if any water gets inside the DAC, the microchips will get damaged.
To summarize, the Neoteck 192kHz DAC is a brilliant choice because it is compatible with most devices. The DAC supports sampling rates from 32 kHz – 192 kHz at 24-bits. The shell of the speaker is super durable from falls and is heat-resistant. Lastly, the device is easy to set up and comes with a front dial that is used to regulate the volume.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Weight: 5.8 ounces |
| Battery life: N / A |
| Bluetooth: No |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Supports sampling rates from 32 kHz – 192k Hz at 24-bits |
| Durable aluminum case |
| Compatible with most audio devices |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Not a portable option |
| Water can damage the microchips easily |
8. Avantree DAC
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.4/5
The Avantree DAC accepts uncompressed digital audio as input with 192 kHz 24-bit, which provides electromagnetic-noise-free transmission. The DAC supports uncompressed 2-channel LPCM or PCM digital audio signal output. Also, the frequency response is 20 Hz – 20k Hz. Therefore, the audio will have a lot more detail compared to other options.
The DAC offers easily switchable coaxial or optical input. Thus, letting you connect audio devices such as speakers. Also, the DAC supports 3.5mm AUX input, which means you can use a headphone with this product.
Furthermore, the build quality is excellent since it uses premium long-lasting materials. The device is easy to use because it has multiple buttons and inputs. Also, the aluminum case protects the chipsets inside from accidental damages.
The DAC isn’t portable and is suited more for home use because there is no built-in battery. Also, when connecting with AUX make sure that the wire is made from premium quality because otherwise, the connection won’t be as stable.
To summarize, the Avantree DAC is a great choice because it comes with multiple methods of connection. The frequency response is 20 Hz – 20k Hz, which means the DAC will produce extra detail. Setting up the speaker is incredibly easy because it comes with multiple inputs. Also, the aluminum case is super durable and protects the chipsets inside.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Weight: 2.88 ounces |
| Battery life: N / A |
| Bluetooth: No |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Multiple methods of connection |
| 20 Hz – 20k Hz frequency response |
| Durable design |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Not great to travel with |
| When connecting with AUX must use premium wire |
9. LiNKFOR 192kHz DAC
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.3/5
The LiNKFOR 192kHz DAC has a 3.5mm AUX input that lets you plug in your headphones to experience premium audio. You can connect external devices such as amplifiers so that the audio can get ultra-loud without distortion. Also, there are coaxial and Toslink inputs for speakers, which makes the DAC compatible with most devices.
The sampling rate is 32 kHz – 192 kHz at 24-bit, which means the DAC will produce better left and right channel streaming. Located at the front of the DAC is a volume control that you can use to adjust the volume without the need to touch your speakers. You can switch the DAC off and on without the need to unplug the power adapter since there is a button next to the volume dial.
The aluminum alloy case protects the microchips inside from accidental falls and scratches. The case provides anti-interference, which makes the sound pure and clear. The design of the DAC looks amazing and simple. Also, you have three designs to choose from, which offers you personalization.
The LiNKFOR 192kHz DAC is a budget option so it won’t produce audio quality as good as some of the top DACs on this list. Also, the device isn’t portable, so if you need a DAC to take on the road consider our other options.
To summarize, the LiNKFOR 192kHz DAC is a great budget choice because it can increase your overall audio quality. The device is easy to use because it has the input names all over the DAC. The sampling rate is 32 kHz – 192 kHz at 24-bit, which means the DAC will produce better left and right channels streaming. Also, at the front is a volume dial that you can use to adjust the audio without the need to touch your headphones or speakers.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Weight: 7 ounces |
| Battery life: N / A |
| Bluetooth: No |
| The Pros |
|---|
| The sampling rate of 32 kHz – 192 kHz at 24-bit |
| Easy to use |
| Multiple inputs |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Budget option |
| Not portable |
10. PROZOR Digital DAC
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.2/5
The PROZOR Digital DAC is easy to install because it comes with multiple inputs with icons that make it simple to understand where everything is. The DAC has coaxial inputs and left/right channel outputs for speakers. Also, you can connect a headphone thanks to the front 3.5mm jack input.
The sampling rate is 32 kHz – 96 kHz at 24-bits, which make the left and right channels sound pinpoint accurate. The device supports uncompressed 2-channel LPCM or PCM digital audio signal output. The DAC provides electromagnetic-noise-free transmission so you can’t hear any interference when listening to music.
The speaker design is small and compact, which means it won’t take up much room when setting up — mentioned before the DAC has input icons so that you know where everything is. Therefore, setting up the device and connecting wires is super easy. Also, you can choose between two color designs to better match your home setup.
The PROZOR Digital DAC is a budget option that doesn’t compare to the other devices on this list because it can’t produce comparable. Also, the sampling rate is 32 kHz – 96 kHz, which is not as good because other DACs have 32 kHz – 192 kHz.
To summarize, the PROZOR Digital DAC is a great starting option because it can improve your audio at a low price. The sampling rate is 32 kHz – 96 kHz at 24-bits, which means the right and left channels will sound better. The DAC is easy to use because it has input icons so that you know where everything is. Also, you have two designs to choose from, which gives you more personalization.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Weight: 3.2 ounces |
| Battery life: N / A |
| Bluetooth: No |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Easy to use |
| Compact design |
| Two designs to choose from |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Sampling rate is only 32 kHz – 92 kHz |
| Doesn’t produce as good as other DAC’s |
Contents
- Buying Considerations
- Sampling Rate
- Connectivity
- Durability
- Practicality
- DAC Under $100 Comparison Table
- 1. Top Pick: EarStudio ES100-24bit DAC
- 2. Best Value: Cambridge Audio DacMagic XS DAC
- 3. Best Budget: Fosi Audio DAC
- 4. FiiO E10K USB DAC
- 5. eSynic 192kHz DAC
- 6. FiiO D3 DAC
- 7. Neoteck 192kHz DAC
- 8. Avantree DAC
- 9. LiNKFOR 192kHz DAC
- 10. PROZOR Digital DAC