Updated Jul 10, 2025 at 09:09 am
By Jasper Lastoria
overview 18 comments
Whether you're looking for versatile Bluetooth headphones with extra features, like active noise cancelling (ANC), or you're a discerning audiophile who only wants the best sound possible, there's something out there for everyone. However, it can be overwhelming to sort through the hundreds of products on the market. Some headphones even seem to offer similar performances, but at radically different price points. How do you know which pair is right for you?
We've tested over 830 pairs of headphones, and below are our recommendations for the best you can buy.
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Best Headphones
Sony WH-1000XM6 78
Travel
8.5
Office Work
8.5
Performance Usages: Audio Reproduction Accuracy
7.8
Noise Isolation
9.7
Frequency Response Consistency
6.0
Bass Amount
Very Emphasized (5 dB)Treble Amount
Balanced (-1 dB)Sound Signature
WarmType Over-ear
Enclosure Closed-Back
Wireless Yes
Transducer Dynamic
Noise Cancelling Yes
Mic Yes
See all our test results
The Sony WH-1000XM6 are the best headphones we've tested. Thanks to their powerful active noise cancelling (ANC) tech and passive isolation, these over-ear headphones filter out a massive array of environmental noise spanning rumbly bus engines, background voices, and squeaky subway brakes. With ANC enabled, their battery lasts just shy of 32 hours. You can connect them via high-quality codecs like LDAC, and if your device supports it, LC3, to get the benefits of Bluetooth LE Audio, such as improved microphone quality. They also support Bluetooth multi-pair with two devices for simple switching between devices. They're designed to fit into your life with intuitive touch and gesture controls that you can remap and tweak the warm sound profile with graphic EQ in the comprehensive app.
If you like simulated surround sound, you can use the Sony 360 Reality Audio feature with compatible streaming services for an immersive experience that includes head tracking to place you in the midst of the music. These premium-built headphones can fold down smaller, and their cushy earpads and headband feel comfortable for most people, too, though you'll want to ensure you get a consistent over-ear seal for the best sound and isolation. If you have larger ears or wear glasses, you might prefer the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Wireless for the roomier and more consistent fit. The Bose can also deliver audio via high-quality codec, aptX Adaptive, but some features aren't as customizable to your taste, like the controls, which rely mainly on a multi-function button. And, while the ANC is nearly as effective as the Sony, you can't fully disable it, and the EQ is only three bands, unlike the Sony.
Still, the top tier of headphones is crowded with plenty of excellent choices; for more options, check out our picks for the best wireless headphones.
See our review
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Best Upper Mid-Range Headphones
Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless 23
Current Deal: The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless has dropped in price by $156 at Amazon.com.
Travel
8.4
Office Work
7.8
Performance Usages: Audio Reproduction Accuracy
7.9
Noise Isolation
9.3
Frequency Response Consistency
8.1
Bass Amount
Very Emphasized (5 dB)Treble Amount
Balanced (0 dB)Sound Signature
WarmType Over-ear
Enclosure Closed-Back
Wireless Yes
Transducer Dynamic
Noise Cancelling Yes
Mic Yes
See all our test results
If you're looking for premium over-ears at a more digestible price, check out the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless. While the Sony WH-1000XM6 are the newer generation in the line-up, the WH-1000XM4 hold up well to the test of time. Plus, if you're looking for premium performance at a lower price, the WH-1000XM4 Wireless cost less than their successor. With the WH-1000XM4, you lose out on some features like LE Audio's LC3 codec, slightly better ANC, head-tracking for surround sound, and a few other app benefits, but the core fundamentals remain competitive despite the generational differences.
Like the WH-1000XM6, they support multi-device pairing and have a bass-heavy default sound profile that emphasizes thump and rumble in genres like EDM and hip-hop. The WH-1000XM4 headphones have an outstanding ANC system that does a remarkable job of filtering ambient sound, including rumbling engines and background conversations, so they're a great choice for commuting or travelling. Their battery lasts for roughly 37 hours with the ANC on, so you don't need to worry about running out of power during long days on the go. However, their mic doesn't offer the best recording quality, making your voice sound thin and muffled. Still, for a slightly clearer microphone and the option to use a mic when the headphones are connected via a cable, consider the Bose QuietComfort Headphones Wireless, though the battery life is shorter and you miss out on the Sony's LDAC codec.
Check out our article on the best noise cancelling headphones for more picks.
See our review
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Best Mid-Range Headphones
Anker Soundcore Space Q45 Wireless 28
Type Over-ear
Enclosure Closed-Back
Wireless Yes
Transducer Dynamic
Noise Cancelling Yes
Mic Yes
See all our test results
From this price point onwards, Anker dominates the market. Their Q lineup covers a range of prices, from mid-range down to budget, and most options are pretty hard to ignore since they come well-equipped with features like ANC, multi-device pairing, and companion app support. Their top-of-the-line headphones, the Anker Soundcore Space Q45 Wireless, are significantly cheaper than the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless. These headphones are a step down in build quality and comfort from the previous pick and offer a shorter continuous battery life. Still, they have some of the same features; their adjustable ANC does a fantastic job of cutting down a wide range of sound. Unfortunately, their ANC isn't perfect and generates white noise when active, which is noticeable and can be a bit annoying depending on your sensitivity.
Their sound is bassy and well-suited for genres like pop and rock, as they emphasize thump and punch, while retaining clarity in vocals and instruments. If you prefer something different, you can tweak their sound using an in-app graphic EQ and presets. These over-ears also last for around 27 hours continuously and support multi-device pairing, so you can stay connected to your PC and smartphone simultaneously. On the downside, calls aren't well served by their mic, which has a mediocre recording quality: speech is thin, dark, and lacking depth, though the mic handles background noise quite well.
If you're looking for a similar set of headphones with a better microphone, check out the Sony ULT WEAR. These noise cancelling headphones supply a better mic, slightly better build quality, and a longer battery life. They're similarly tuned to favor a bass-heavy sound profile and are equally customizable with an in-app graphic EQ. However, while their ANC is excellent, they don't cancel low-rumbling noise like engines as handily as the Anker.
Looking for more mid-range headphones? Our article on the best headphones under $200 has more picks!
See our review
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Best Budget Headphones
Anker Soundcore Life Q30 Wireless 8
Type Over-ear
Enclosure Closed-Back
Wireless Yes
Transducer Dynamic
Noise Cancelling Yes
Mic Yes
See all our test results
If you're looking for a cheaper pair of headphones, check out the Anker Soundcore Life Q30 Wireless. While they aren't as sturdy or feature-packed as the Anker Soundcore Space Q45 Wireless, they still have ANC and are just as comfortable for long listening sessions. These budget over-ears have better battery life than their more expensive counterpart, lasting over 44 hours on a single charge. As such, you can use them during long trips or repeat days at the office without needing a recharge.
Out of the box, they have a bass-heavy sound profile that complements genres like rock and pop. However, the extra bass muddies mixes and emphasis in the treble can make vocal and instrumental details sound a bit piercing. Still, you can fine-tune their sound using their companion app's graphic EQ and presets. While they don't have adaptive noise cancelling to automatically adjust to your environment like the Q45, their ANC has three modes tuned for different scenarios. They also support multi-device pairing, so you can stay connected to up to two devices simultaneously.
If you aren't looking to spend much, our best budget and cheap headphones article has more recommendations for low-priced options.
See our review
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Best Sounding Wireless Headphones
Focal Bathys Wireless 7
Travel
7.8
Office Work
7.6
Performance Usages: Audio Reproduction Accuracy
8.0
Noise Isolation
8.1
Frequency Response Consistency
7.9
Bass Amount
Slightly Emphasized (2 dB)Treble Amount
Balanced (0 dB)Sound Signature
BalancedType Over-ear
Enclosure Closed-Back
Wireless Yes
Transducer Dynamic
Noise Cancelling Yes
Mic Yes
See all our test results
If you want the best sound experience over a Bluetooth connection, check out the Focal Bathys Wireless. They're much pricier than the previous wireless picks, but these over-ears are equipped with handy features to improve your audio experience. Like our top pick, the Sony WH-1000XM6, they include a graphic EQ and presets to adjust the sound to your tastes. They support aptX Adaptive codec, allowing you to stream high-quality audio over Bluetooth. Although their ANC isn't as powerful as our top pick, their sound is more consistent between wears, and the ear cups are roomier. Using these cans wired also lets you take advantage of their USB-DAC, converting digital signals to analog with their onboard hardware. Their battery also lasts over 29 hours continuously with ANC, and their cups have a comfortable, plush fit, which is great for long listening sessions.
Using the Dynamic EQ preset when wireless, they have a balanced sound profile that delivers satisfying bass without drowning out vocals and instruments. They're closed-back headphones, so their passive soundstage doesn't feel the most spacious or natural, especially when compared to the openness of the Sennheiser HD 800 S below. But they do support multi-device pairing, so you can stay connected to your PC and smartphone simultaneously, making them great for on-the-go listening without sacrificing much in the way of sound quality.
Want more sound-oriented headphones? Try our picks for the top headphones for music.
See our review
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Best Audiophile Headphones
Sennheiser HD 800 S 4
Travel
4.9
Office Work
3.4
Performance Usages: Audio Reproduction Accuracy
8.4
Noise Isolation
1.4
Frequency Response Consistency
8.4
Bass Amount
Slightly Underemphasized (-3 dB)Treble Amount
Balanced (0 dB)Sound Signature
FlatType Over-ear
Enclosure Open-Back
Wireless No
Transducer Dynamic
Noise Cancelling No
Mic No
See all our test results
The best audiophile headphones we've tested are the Sennheiser HD 800 S—demonstrating their well-respected pedigree is not for nothing. Unlike the closed-back Bluetooth Focal Bathys Wireless, these wired cans have an open-back design, allowing audio to escape the ear cups and interact with your environment, contributing to their spacious, out-of-head soundstage. On the flip side, they're designed for use in an enclosed room as they won't block out any background noise. You'll also need a high-grade amp if you want to properly drive them, which can be an additional investment if you don't already have one. If you just want to dip your toes into the audiophile world, it's worth trying out entry-level headphones like the Philips SHP9500, which are a fraction of the price but aren't as sturdily built.
The Sennheiser headphones have a flat sound profile that's suitable for most audio content. Although they have some trouble reproducing a thumpy low-bass, there's enough high-bass that basslines still feel warm. Their mid-range is flat, so vocals and lead instruments are clearly and accurately reproduced. They also have excellent build quality, and their fit is comfortable enough for extended critical listening sessions.
If you're looking for more options for hi-fi sound, check out our article on the best audiophile headphones.
See our review
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Best Earbuds
Technics EAH-AZ100 32
Travel
8.4
Office Work
7.8
Performance Usages: Audio Reproduction Accuracy
7.9
Noise Isolation
9.1
Frequency Response Consistency
8.9
Bass Amount
Very Emphasized (5 dB)Treble Amount
Slightly Underemphasized (-3 dB)Sound Signature
WarmType In-ear
Enclosure Closed-Back
Wireless Truly Wireless
Transducer Dynamic
Noise Cancelling Yes
Mic Yes
See all our test results
If you want a more portable option than the over-ears featured in this list, consider the Technics EAH-AZ100, our pick for the best earbuds. These premium Bluetooth buds let you go untethered by wires, with a pocketable and well-built case for audio on the go. They supply a powerful noise-cancelling buffer from your surroundings in a sleek package. Combined passive isolation from one of the five sets of ear tips and ANC effectively block external noises like traffic and chit-chat. They're tuned with a smooth, bass-forward and warm sound profile, which you can adjust to taste in the companion app's equalizer.
As for modern conveniences, these earbuds last a fantastic 12 hours with ANC on before needing a recharge in the case, which is one of the longest-lasting continuous battery results we've had for earbuds to date. So, you can take an intercontinental flight or get through a full day at the office without a recharge. You can also take advantage of multipoint pairing with up to three devices. That said, if you have smaller ears or the deeper in-ear fit of the Technics design doesn't suit your anatomy, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Truly Wireless are worth a look. Their fit is shallower, and since most of the housing sits outside of your ear, they don't apply much extra pressure, and you can customize the fit with optional stabilizers. Still, the Bose's continuous battery life is shorter at seven hours, and they don't block out as much noise in the mid-range as the Technics.
Searching for more earbuds? Check out our best in-ear headphones article!
See our review
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Best Earbuds For iPhone
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) 43
Travel
8.4
Office Work
7.7
Performance Usages: Audio Reproduction Accuracy
7.8
Noise Isolation
9.2
Frequency Response Consistency
8.0
Bass Amount
Balanced (0 dB)Treble Amount
Underemphasized (-5 dB)Sound Signature
WarmType In-ear
Enclosure Closed-Back
Wireless Truly Wireless
Transducer Dynamic
Noise Cancelling Yes
Mic Yes
See all our test results
Want something that rivals the Technics EAH-AZ100 but offers extra features for iOS users? Then the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) are an excellent choice. Their ANC blocks a little more treble than the Technics, making them one of the best-in-class noise cancelling earbuds. For compatibility with the Apple ecosystem, these popular buds have an H2 chip for seamless pairing and switching between your MacBook or iPhone. They also support Spatial Audio, which can create a more immersive audio experience with supported content.
These comfortable, well-built buds are certified IP54 for resistance against water splashes and dust exposure. Unfortunately, they don't have any sound customization features to help you adjust their warm sound to your liking. Some people find that the buds wiggle out of their ears over time, which can be annoying if you're affected. If, along with Apple ecosystem support, you plan to make a lot of calls or prefer a more open design, the Apple AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation are worth considering, as they have a better-performing mic than our pick, and some people might prefer their less intrusive fit. That said, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) have a slightly longer battery life and much better ANC. If you're running iOS 18 or later, Apple also has software solutions for improving call quality, like Voice Isolation, which can help isolate your voice from background noise on certain apps.
The AirPods Pro (2nd generation) have two case variants: one with a Lightning charging port and another with a USB-C charging port. However, the Lightning port case version has been discontinued and replaced with the USB-C port case version.
For more iOS-friendly options, check out our picks for the best wireless earbuds for iPhone.
See our review
Recent Updates
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Jul 10, 2025 :
This article's picks have been updated. The top pick has been replaced with the Sony WH-1000XM6, and the 'Best Earbuds' are now the Technics EAH-AZ100. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Wireless are mentioned as an alternative to the top pick. Text has been updated throughout to reflect these changes.
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May 01, 2025 :
We haven't changed our picks, but we've updated the text throughout to reflect changes made as part of our Test Bench 2.0 update, which changed how we test sound.
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Mar 05, 2025 :
We've made minor adjustments to the text for clarity and accuracy with no changes to our picks.
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Jan 30, 2025 :
We've checked this article for accuracy but haven't changed our picks.
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Jan 07, 2025 :
We've made minor adjustments to the text for clarity with no changes to our picks.
All Reviews
Our recommendations above are what we think are currently the best earbuds and headphones for most people to buy. We factor in the price (cheaper headphones win over pricier ones if the difference isn't worth it), feedback from our visitors, and availability (no headphones that are difficult to find or almost out of stock everywhere).
If you would like to choose for yourself, here is the list of all our headphone reviews. Be careful not to get caught up in the details. There are no ideal headphones. Personal tastes, preferences, and listening habits will matter more in your selection.
