Cheap Acoustic Panels UK: Are They Worth It?
Mon Sep 01 2025
When people start looking for cheap acoustic panels in the UK, the goal is simple: find something affordable that improves the sound of a room. That’s a perfectly reasonable place to begin. However, in acoustics, cheap can often turn out to be costly if the panels don’t perform.
In this article, we’ll explore what “cheap” really means when it comes to acoustic treatment, how to spot the difference between cost-effective and ineffective panels, and what to look for before you buy. Whether you’re treating a home studio, office, classroom or café, the right choice of acoustic panels can transform your space without breaking the bank.
What Cheap Acoustic Panels Really Mean in the UK
Not all budget options are bad, but there’s a difference between cost-effective and ineffective budget acoustic treatment. Cheap or poor-quality acoustic panels often fall into the latter category. Some products, especially those found on general marketplaces, are little more than decorative foam with limited acoustic benefit.
That doesn’t mean you need to spend a fortune. There are well-made, affordable panels that offer genuine sound absorption, if you know what to look for.
Science Made Simple
Even if your budget is limited, you should demand good acoustic performance from any sound-absorbing panels you buy. Acoustic panels are rated by metrics like NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient) or the Class Rating System (e.g Class A). Both indicate how much sound they absorb.
Materials like compressed polyester fibres (PET), dense fibreglass, and mineral wool tend to perform far better than lightweight foam. Always look for tested absorption data, especially if the product claims to reduce echo or reverberation.
If a panel doesn’t list performance specifications, assume it was designed more for decoration than function.
Affordable Acoustic Panels That Actually Work
Here are some affordable options commonly available in the UK that offer solid performance without high costs:
Fabric-Wrapped Panels
Professional-grade but budget-friendly and accessible, these panels offer good absorption and come in various colours and thicknesses.
DIY Acoustic Panels
With some basic tools and materials like mineral wool or Rockwool, it’s possible to build panels that perform well for home studios or hobby spaces. DIY acoustic panels are a popular choice for budget-friendly sound absorption in home studios across the UK.
Recycled PET Felt Panels
Made from recycled polyester, these can be considered eco-friendly, lightweight, and cost-effective. Many offer good fire ratings and are ideal for offices, meeting rooms and public spaces. Install with a void behind the panel to boost its acoustic performance.
Improve Cheap Panels with Hidden Absorption
Pair budget-friendly panels with a layer of high-performance material like Rockwool behind them. This gives you better sound absorption without losing the clean look of the front panel.
Just make sure the panel in front is acoustically transparent, so sound can reach the absorber behind it.
Install the panels with an Air gap behind
A trick many manufacturers use to increase the acoustic performance of their acoustic panels is to install them with a void or air gap between the panel and the wall/ceiling. This Air gap improves absorption for very little increase in cost or time.
Where to Buy Cheap Acoustic Panels in the UK
If you’re buying acoustic panels, buy from a specialist. Not only are you more likely to get advice tailored to your space, but you’ll also avoid unknowingly buying low-absorbing decorative panels that simply don’t work.
Look for suppliers that:
- Offer performance data and fire ratings
- Include trusted acoustic installation or advice
- Can support you with design or provide placement suggestions
Some general marketplaces (like Amazon or eBay) offer fast shipping and low prices, but little else. If you’re buying panels to solve a problem, not just decorate, professional acoustic panel suppliers in the UK will save you money in the long run.
What to Avoid
When cost is the only factor, it’s easy to end up with products that don’t solve your acoustic problems. Common pitfalls include:
- Decorative foam tiles sold as “soundproofing” but offering little to no real sound absorption.
- Acoustic panels without performance data such as NRC or Class Ratings, making it impossible to know how they’ll perform.
- Products without fire safety ratings, which is especially important in schools, offices and public spaces in the UK.
- Panels described only by thickness or texture (like “egg crate foam”) with no independent acoustic testing.
- UK Suppliers that lack expertise, offering no design advice or installation guidance.
A low up-front cost can lead to repeat spending when you realise the treatment isn’t working.
How to Get the Most Out of a Budget
Working with a limited budget doesn’t mean sacrificing results. Here are smart ways to maximise performance from affordable acoustic solutions in the UK:
- Treat key reflection points first — focus on walls, ceilings or parallel surfaces where sound bounces most.
- Use air gaps wisely — installing panels with a small air gap behind can significantly boost low-frequency absorption at no extra cost.
- Mix acoustic panels with soft furnishings — rugs, curtains and upholstered furniture you already own all add to the absorption.
- Consider partial coverage — ceiling rafts or baffles over talking zones in open-plan offices or classrooms provide targeted improvement.
- Request a quick consultation — even a free acoustic assessment can save money by ensuring panels are placed where they’ll have the most impact.
Take your time: Cost-effective beats cheap every day
Looking for cheap acoustic panels in the UK doesn’t have to mean poor results. The key is choosing the right acoustic materials, using smart placement, and focusing on real sound absorption rather than decorative foam.
At Koru Acoustics, we’ve helped countless schools, offices, cafés and studios who first tried bargain foam tiles from online marketplaces, only to find they didn’t solve the problem. By switching to properly tested, Class A acoustic panels, they achieved lasting improvements in clarity, comfort and reverberation.
If you need help figuring out what will actually work in your space, our team is here to help. We offer free, no-obligation advice on affordable acoustic solutions for homes, studios and workplaces across the UK.
Get in touch today for expert guidance and a tailored quote, no pressure, no jargon, no gimmicks.
FAQ: Cheap Acoustic Panels UK
Are cheap acoustic panels worth it?
Cheap acoustic panels can work if they are properly tested and rated for sound absorption. Look for products with an NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient) or Class Rating, rather than decorative foam panels with no data. A low upfront cost often leads to poor results if performance isn’t verified.
What is a good NRC rating for acoustic panels?
A good NRC rating is 0.7 or higher. This means the panel absorbs at least 70% of sound, reducing echo and improving room acoustics.
What is the best affordable acoustic panel material?
Materials such as compressed PET felt, mineral wool, and fabric-wrapped fibreglass offer far better performance than lightweight foam. These options are cost-effective and widely available in the UK, delivering real sound absorption at a reasonable price.
Where can I buy cheap acoustic panels in the UK?
While marketplaces like Amazon and eBay list budget panels, these often lack testing data. For reliable results, buy from specialist UK acoustic suppliers who provide fire ratings, installation advice, and proven performance specifications.
How can I save money on acoustic panels?
You don’t need to cover every wall. Start by treating key reflection points and consider installing panels with an air gap for improved performance. Combining affordable acoustic panels with spare soft furnishings is another effective, low-cost strategy.