The 18 Absolute Best Cheap Colognes for Men (2023)

It doesn’t take a genius to understand why guys would want to find the best cheap colognes on the market:

Men’s Journal once did a survey of 20 women, and found that the majority of them preferred men who wear a good cologne.

As a respondent named Ellie J put it: “I do like when guys have a good cologne—that way if I smell it randomly on someone, I think of them.”

The problem is that, while cologne can be helpful in making a good impression, it can also be absurdly expensive.

The shelves are often stocked with designer-label scents that may smell great, but can cost more than your weekly grocery bill.

Fortunately, you don’t have to shell out to smell great. There are plenty of inexpensive mens cologne options that may not have the big designer brand names, but still offer an enticing scent that will make other people happy to have you in their orbit.

In this post I’ll round up the best cheap colognes for men, and explain a little bit about why each one can help you smell sharp and stand out.

The Best Cheap Fragrances for Men

Rounding Up the Best Inexpensive Men’s Colognes on the Market

Overall Best Cheap Cologne for Men ↓

Dr. Squatch Sandalwood Bourbon Cologne

$27

What the Manufacturer Says:

“Aged Whiskey, Leather Bound Books, Oak Moss. Get lost in the smooth, comforting scents of myrrh, and grapefruit, that will remind you of a summertime spent embarking on daylong canoe trips or kicking back dockside with a tumbler of your favorite beverage.”

What The Average Reviewer Says:

Smells great but isn’t overpowering like most spritzer colognes.

Just dab a little behind the ears, across the neck, and on your wrists for a nice smell that doesn’t roam too far from me.

The only thing worse than B.O. is too much cologne. This stuff keeps me smelling good subtlety, the way a man should smell.

– Matthew J.

All I can say is I never use cologne because I think they overly smell too strong, but I went on a limb with this.

The smell is amazing and what I like most about it is that the smell is not overbearing.

– David E.

Buy Sandalwood Bourbon ➤

What the Manufacturer Says:

Top Notes – The lightest of all notes. Within seconds of spraying, the scent starts to develop. The character of tamarind adds a dimension of spice and intrigue.

Middle Notes – These notes take longer to develop. Considered the heart of the fragrance, these are longer lasting than top notes. Cardamom brings an exotic warmth and richness at the heart of this cologne.

Base/Dry Notes – As the fragrance develops and evaporates over time, these will be the lingering notes that leave a lasting impression. Bamboo stem rounds out this woody, masculine scent with a sensual finish.

What The Average Reviewer Says:

“Smells great and lasts better than other colognes in the price range such as Nautica or Adidas. The price is definitely right. I’m not a big fan of spending big dollars on smell. Just seems a bit arbitrary. About twenty bucks for 3.4 Oz is a great deal.” – Mike W. Skoog

“I love this scent so much I bought it for my boyfriend and it is actually a really big bottle for the price.” – taybay135

Buy Lucky You ➤

What the Manufacturer Says:

“Tommy by Tommy Hilfiger is a Citrus Aromatic fragrance for men. Tommy was launched in 1995. Tommy was created by Annie Buzantian and Alberto Morillas. Top notes are mint, lavender, grapefruit and bergamot; middle notes are cranberry, rose and granny smith apple; base notes are amber, cactus and cotton flower.”

What The Average Reviewer Says:

“The apple/mint/lavender gives it a classic and clean fragrance. Too bad it doesn’t last on my skin as long as I wish it would.” – Alvaro Barchi

“This is my favorite scent on men. It smells clean and fresh and delicious. However, keep in mind that this is not cologne. It’s the eau de toilette, which is basically watered down cologne. However, it still smells nice, it just doesn’t seem to last as long. But for this price it’s still worth it, in my opinion.” – Chase

Buy Tommy ➤

What the Manufacturer Says:

“Aspen by Coty for Men is a men’s fragrance that possesses a blend of outdoorsy, adventurous scents including woods, citrus & spices; Recommended for daily wear, this masculine fragrance, evocative of a silent forest, is sure to become your signature scent.”

What the Average Reviewer Says:

“Really pleased with this cologne. Unlike others, it retains its smell after a few hours. Wear it during work and doesn’t fade even when I’m running around or breaking sweat.” – Mark S.

“This is normally $40 at my local pharmacy, so my boyfriend was thrilled that I didn’t have to spend a lot to buy him a gift! And now he smells SO good! It’s not an overwhelming smell either. He’ll spray two spritz before work and by the time he comes home I can still smell it on him.” – Ashley23

Buy Aspen ➤

What the Manufacturer Says:

“Clean, crisp greens and a background of warm musk and moss. This is a cologne to wear in open air.”

What the Average Reviewer Says:

“This is a great price for this size as compared to major box stores. I have used this cologne for years and am happy with this purchase. Will buy again when needed.” – Christopher M

“Smells pretty decent. Well worth the price for how much u receive. Love the tin also. I would recommend.” – Michael Strausbaugh

Buy Curve ➤

What the Manufacturer Says:

“Formulated to be enticing and attention grabbing. Made with our patented blend of scents and oils to entice and attract.”

What the Average Reviewer Says:

“I bought it with skepticism; however, it honestly does make interactions with other female co-workers and friends more involved. They have smiled more towards me, shared more laughs, and interact with me on a more consistent basis than before. I can’t measure it, but i can without any doubt tell you that it does help and ease any approach you may make. I don’t write many reviews, this i felt deserved one.” – Jose

“This cologne smells awesome! It doesn’t give off a overly strong scent, rather it’s pleasant. It has a slight musky scent to it, but just the right amount. Since it is not infused with strong scented chemicals, the longevity of it may not be as long as those that are. Nevertheless, I believe to have made a great decision for someone who rarely applies cologne!” – TRMP

Buy RawChemistry ➤

What the Manufacturer Says:

“Stetson Original Cologne is a confident, classic scent of the American West with rich, woodsy, citrus spice & notes of bergamot & musk. Let Stetson take the guess work out of fragrances & become loyal to this true scent of the West.”

What the Average Reviewer Says:

“I have worn this for most of my life and still love it. You can’t beat this price, awesome find!” – Charles Reade

“Love this product, AND SO DOES MY WIFE! Enough said with that one! But, everyone asks what is that, especially lady golfing friends who want a great scent for their husbands! My wife highly recommends it!” – Donuthin

Buy Stetson ➤

What the Manufacturer Says:

“This refreshing fruity fragrance has a blend of citrus lemon, mandarin the year orange, and grapefruit.”

What the Average Reviewer Says:

“Great product! Happy for men is still a favorite. Know that it does wear off quickly but at this price, you can freshen up frequently or as needed.” – Chris C.

“What can I say? This is a phenomenal scent and it’s been my go to cologne for years and years! Price is incredible and it always arrives sealed and ready to spray on.” – Christos

Buy Happy ➤

What the Manufacturer Says:

“This perfume has a blend of lavender, sage, jasmine, rose, amber, and musk.”

What the Average Reviewer Says:

“Love this stuff…Stays with me longer than other more expensive colognes and the women really like it.” – Mark D. Snider

“My fiance loves this fragrance, so I keep ordering it for him. I just wish he didn’t put so much on, it can be overpowering, but who listens to me!” – Cathey

Buy Ps ➤

What the Manufacturer Says:

“Halston Z-14 is a classic warm, oriental-woody fragrance. Top citrus notes of lemon and gardenia are accented with a woody base of patchouli, coriander, cedarwood and tonka.”

What the Average Reviewer Says:

“It doesn’t seem to have as strong a scent as I remember it, but lasts a long time. A favorite classic fragrance for my guy.” – PatsyCake

“This cologne is a nice mix of woodsy – clean! I like the scent and price is reasonable! Try it today if you like the woodsy, outdoor scents.” – Peggy J Wood

Buy Halston ➤

What the Manufacturer Says:

“Classic and authentically masculine, this rich, sensual scent is the signature fragrance for those bold enough to express their own unique style.”

What the Average Reviewer Says:

“An oldie, but a goodie! Truly evolves as you wear it.” – Caleb D.

“I bought this for a friend, I always love the smell of old fashion perfume and so far this has not disappointed me.” – raven thorne

Buy English Leather ➤

What the Manufacturer Says:

“With its combination of spices, citrus and lavender, Jovan Musk by Jovan has a manly aroma that is well-suited for a romantic evening for two. Introduced in 1973, this classic scent is the perfect complement to a lovely dinner with your special someone.”

What the Average Reviewer Says:

“I get more compliments on this scent than any other I have ever used. Perhaps it works well with my skin chemistry, and I prefer the softer, less harsh scent compared to the sharper, spicy brands I’ve tried.” – Al

“Always a great mens cologne. Woodsey, musk, & it always smells good. Used for alot of years. Wife loves it and compliments given.” – luvly

Buy Jovan Musk ➤

What the Manufacturer Says:

Insurrection II Pure by Reyane Tradition is a Woody Aromatic fragrance for men. Insurrection II Pure was launched in 2013. Top notes are cassis, bergamot, apple and pineapple; middle notes are birch, jasmine and patchouli; base notes are oakmoss, musk, amber and vanilla.

What the Average Reviewer Says:

“I must say that this is my top compliment getter of all my colognes. I this was my daily cologne for the summer of ’17. Upon first wearing it I received a message from a girl who I never really talked to much, she sent me a meme about a sexy man and his cologne. From then on I made it my top choice given the price and the compliments.” – DJT

“I absolutely love it. I’ts definitely my main scent right now, definitely for cold weather. We’ll see how it goes when it gets warmer. My partner is super-averse to most of the fragrances in my collection, but she loves this one. At this price you can get one for your home, for your office, for the gym, etc..” – Abraham Hmiel

Buy Insurrection Pure ➤

What the Manufacturer Says:

“Drakkar Noir by Guy Laroche is a dramatic, classic scent that brings a touch of excitement to everything you do. Lavender, citrus and spicy berries mix with sandalwood to create a distinctive scent.”

What the Average Reviewer Says:

“I absolutely adore this scent. My boyfriend had a tiny tester bottle from before we met, but never used it. One day he asked me what I thought of it, and I fell in love. Every time he wears it it drives me nuts, I wish he wouldn’t wear anything else.” – Beck

“It has a fantastic masculine fragrance. It has been my “go to” cologne since college (and I’ve tried them all).” – Jeff D. Huddleston 

Buy Drakkar Noir ➤

What the Manufacturer Says:

“Launched by the design house of liz claiborne in 1997, claiborne sport cologne is classified as a refreshing, spicy, lavender, amber fragrance. This masculine scent possesses a blend of green notes, herbs, ginger, cedar and the aroma of a morning dew. It is recommended for office wear.”

What the Average Reviewer Says:

“I first wore this cologne in 1996 and it has stood the test of time. A few women have told me they LOVE it and it played a part in their attraction to me. Don’t know if there is a better recommendation.” – K. Brett

“This stuff might be old but I get compliments all the time when wearing it. I have a huge selection but this is always a staple on my shelf. I hope they never stop making it. Love the fresh scent.” – GMed33

Buy Clairborne Sport ➤

What the Manufacturer Says:

“Masculine & modern. This sophisticated premiere fragrance is infused with citrus, grapefruit, tart bergamot, and mandarin that deepen into an irresistible musk.”

What the Average Reviewer Says:

“My All time favorite cologne. Lasts days on any material. I could spray it on a hoodie and smell it the next time i put it on. Well worth the price. I bought two bottles. Very nice, clean, and sophisticated scent. Just do yourself a favor and buy it.” – Ryan S. Rizzo

[Editor’s Note: Do not spray your cologne on a hoodie. And for that matter, don’t even wear hoodies. There are more stylish sweater options available. A lot of them.]

Buy Rue21 ➤

What the Manufacturer Says:

“Confident. Modern. Effortless. ETERNITY AQUA is inspired by the freshness of the ocean and the effortless elegance of a modern man. Top notes – Chilled cucumber, citrus cocktail, water lotus, drenched green leaves Mid notes – Szechuan pepper, lavender, white cedarwood Base notes – Sandalwood, guaiac wood, patchouli, musks.”

What the Average Reviewer Says:

“Love this fragrance. Very long lasting, and women are always asking about it.” – Roger

“This cologne has a very clean and fresh scent. For my body chemistry it does not seem to las much past 3 hours though. I would still recommend the scent though as it smells great.” – B. Shotts

Buy Eternity Aqua ➤

What the Manufacturer Says:

“Show off your multi-faceted personality with Nautica Blue eau de toilette spray, a men’s fragrance that’s as unique as you are… this scent opens on notes of juicy pineapple and sweet peach, reminiscent of a sunny day on the beach. Subtle and refined, middle notes of water lily give way to a masculine base, made up of rich sandalwood notes mixed with familiar cedar to remind you of an evening hike in the woods.”

What the Average Reviewer Says:

“Nautica is a light and pleasant fragrance for daytime use and evening as well when a heavy fragrance is not desired. I always get compliments when I use it.” – William G. Troiano

“Very good smell not strong and loud like most very good scent on 2 sprays and keeps you smelling fresh all day.” – Willie

Buy Nautica Blue ➤

You Know the Best Cheap Men’s Colognes

Now Learn How to Put Your Best Face Forward

If you’ve read this far (thanks for hanging in there by the way), then you now have a wide variety of affordable scents to choose from, none of which will require you to skip rent this month.

But your scent is only one piece of the overall self-presentation puzzle.

If you really want to learn how to look great and put your best face forward, you need to know how to nail the details—all the details.

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Further Reading

More Men’s Grooming Advice & Style Tips From Irreverent Gent:

More Cheap Cologne Lists From Around the Web:

Banner image via Tima Miroshnichenko on Pexels (Thanks Tima!)

Summary

Overall Best Cheap Cologne for Men

Dave Bowden

Dr. Squatch Sandalwood Bourbon Cologne

Summary

“Get lost in the smooth, comforting scents of myrrh, and grapefruit, that will remind you of a summertime spent embarking on daylong canoe trips or kicking back dockside with a tumbler of your favorite beverage.”

4.5