Did you know over 80% of personal audio devices are now wireless? This shows how much we value convenience and quality in listening. With so many choices, picking the right headphones can be tough. That’s why we’ve put together a guide of expert tested headphones.
We’ve looked at over-ear, on-ear headphones, and earbuds to help you find what you need. The top-rated headphones we recommend are mostly wireless. This reflects our love for freedom in listening.
The Sony WH-1000XM4 is the best for most people, thanks to its amazing sound and lower price. If you want the best, the Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 offers top features and long battery life.
Earbud fans will love the Technics EAH-AZ80 for its great sound. Budget shoppers should check out the Sony WF-C510 for its value and sound. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra is the best for noise cancellation, offering the quietest sound.
Our guide covers everything from budget to premium headphones. Keep reading to find the best headphones for an amazing audio experience.
Why Choosing the Best Headphones Matters
Choosing the best headphones is more than just listening to music or podcasts. It’s about making every moment better. For those who love using headphones, finding the right pair can change how you enjoy your day. Whether you’re into music or just like to listen, the right headphones make a big difference.
The personal experience of headphone use
Personal headphone use is all about what you like. Everyone has their own taste in sound, comfort, and design. For example, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra offers 24 hours of battery life and great noise cancellation for $429. On the other hand, the Sony WH-1000XM5 gives you 40 hours of playtime without ANC, perfect for long trips.
Key factors to consider
Our headphones buying guide points out important things to think about when picking the best:
- Sound Quality: It’s key to find headphones that sound good to you. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra is known for its clear sound.
- Comfort & Design: You want headphones that feel good for a long time. The Dyson OnTrac lasts over 55 hours and is comfy.
- Battery Life: How long you listen matters. The Sony WH-1000XM5 is great for long listening sessions.
- Technical Specifications: Look for features like ANC, spatial audio, and device compatibility. The Beats Studio Pro has USB-C charging and spatial audio.
What Are the Best Headphones Right Now?
We tested 815 pairs of headphones to find the best. The Sonos Ace and Bose QuietComfort Ultra lead the market. They are known for their sound and design.
Top recommendations from experts
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Wireless last 29 hours with ANC on. Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless headphones last about 37 hours. The Anker Soundcore Life Q30 Wireless headphones last over 44 hours.
These headphones are praised for their performance and reliability.
Key features to look for
When choosing headphones, look for these key features:
- Battery Life: Battery life varies. For example, the Focal Bathys Wireless headphones last over 29 hours. They also support aptX Adaptive for high-quality audio.
- Noise Cancellation: Good noise-canceling is crucial. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra is known for its excellent noise-canceling.
- Comfort and Design: Comfort is important for long use. The Sony WH-1000XM5, priced at $299, lasts 31 hours and 53 minutes with ANC on.
By focusing on these features, you’ll find headphones that offer a great listening experience.
The Best Headphones of 2024
Looking ahead to 2024, several headphones are making a splash. They come with new tech and easy-to-use designs. These next-gen headphones aim to take our listening to new heights.
The Sony WH-1000XM5 is a big name for 2024. It has top-notch noise cancellation and lasts 30 hours on a single charge. It also has 30mm carbon fiber drivers and can connect to multiple devices at once. Plus, it supports Bluetooth 5.2 and has a 3.5mm jack for extra versatility.
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra is another top pick. It offers a premium sound and lasts 24 hours on a single charge. It also has Bluetooth 5.3 and a unique transparency mode, making it a highlight among the upcoming headphones.
If you’re after long battery life, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless is a great choice. It lasts an impressive 60 hours. The Soundcore Space One is also worth mentioning, offering great noise canceling and sound quality at under $100.
There’s a wide range of prices to fit every budget:
| Model | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Apple AirPods Pro 2 | $178.99 | |
| Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones | $429.00 | |
| Sony WH-1000XM5 | $299.99 | |
| Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless | $279.99 |
In the earbuds category, the Sony WF-1000XM5 stands out. It has a small design but big performance. Prices range from under $80 to $350, offering something for everyone.
The upcoming headphones promise a big leap in audio quality. With advanced noise canceling and long battery life, they’re set to change how we listen. Keep an eye out for these exciting new models.
Best Overall: Sonos Ace
The Sonos Ace is a top choice for its design, comfort, sound quality, battery life, and how well it works with Sonos soundbars. It sets a new standard for the best sound quality headphones.
Design and Comfort
The Sonos Ace weighs 11 ounces, a bit heavier than some but lighter than others. Its design makes it comfortable for long listening times. The ear pads are soft and lined with fabric, adding luxury and practicality.
Sound Quality
The Sonos Ace has custom 40mm dynamic drivers for a balanced sound. It has detailed highs, strong bass, and a wide soundstage. It also supports Bluetooth 5.4 and AptX Adaptive, including AptX Lossless for better audio.
Battery Life
The Sonos Ace has up to 30 hours of battery life, matching top brands like Sony XM5s. A quick three-minute charge gives you three more hours. It has effective noise cancellation and a button for switching modes.
Integration with Sonos Soundbars
The Sonos Ace works great with Sonos soundbars, thanks to the “TV Audio Swap” feature. This lets you easily switch audio from TV speakers to headphones. The Sonos app also lets you adjust EQ, customize controls, and use dynamic head-tracking for better sound.
| Features | Sonos Ace | Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $449.00 | Similar to high-end models |
| Weight | 11 ounces (312 grams) | Slightly heavier than Sony and Bose |
| Battery Life | 30 hours with noise cancellation | Comparable to Sony XM5 |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.4 | Advanced, reliable |
| Special Features | TV Audio Swap, Dynamic Head-Tracking | Outstanding integration |
Best Noise-Canceling: Bose QuietComfort Ultra
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones are a top choice for those who want the best noise-canceling tech and comfort. They offer an immersive sound experience. Their performance and build quality make them great for travel and work.
Noise-Cancelation Capabilities
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra is at the top for noise-canceling headphones. It blocks out ambient noise well, whether you’re in a busy street or on a plane. It beats other top models like the Sony WH-1000XM5 in creating a quiet listening space.
Battery Life
Battery life is key for all-day headphone use. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra has a long battery life. It’s not as long as the Cambridge Audio Melomania P100, but it’s enough for most users.
Design and Comfort
Comfort is crucial for long use, and the Bose QuietComfort Ultra shines here. It has soft ear cushions and a design that fits well. It’s built for long wear, whether at work or on a flight.
Here’s a quick comparison with other top competitors in the noise-canceling headphones segment:
| Model | Noise Cancelation | Battery Life | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bose QuietComfort Ultra | Superior | Impressive | Exceptional |
| Sony WH-1000XM5 | Excellent | Comparable | Great |
| Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 | Good | Up to 100 hours | Good |
Best for Software Fanatics: Sony WH-1000XM5
If you love advanced software, the Sony WH-1000XM5 is perfect. It has the latest smart tech and is customizable for tech lovers.
Software features
The Sony WH-1000XM5 has cool software features. It has adaptive sound control that changes settings based on what you’re doing. It also has a speaking recognition function that pauses music when you talk.
Battery life
The Sony WH-1000XM5 has great battery life. It lasts up to 40 hours without noise-cancelation and 30 hours with it on. It’s perfect for long trips or lots of use.
Noise-cancelation capabilities
The noise-cancelation on the Sony WH-1000XM5 is top-notch. It uses eight microphones for clear calls and blocks out noise. It’s better than the WH-1000XM3 and WH-1000XM4, offering a deeper sound.
| Headphone Model | Weight | Battery Life (ANC On) | Bluetooth | Multipoint |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony WH-1000XM5 | 8.8 oz (249.5 g) | 30 hours | Bluetooth 5.2 | Yes |
| Bose QuietComfort Ultra | 8.96 oz (254 g) | 24 hours | Bluetooth 5.3 | Yes |
| Sennheiser Momentum 4 | 10.3 oz (292 g) | 60 hours | Bluetooth 5.2 | Yes |
| Apple AirPods Max | 13.6 oz (384.4 g) | 20 hours | Bluetooth 5.0 | No, |
Best for Unique Style: Dyson OnTrac
Dyson OnTrac headphones are a game-changer in audio style. They offer top-notch sound and a unique look. These headphones are more than just tools; they’re fashion statements.
The Dyson OnTrac shines with its customization options. You can pick from 2,000 color combos, changing earcups and caps. This makes each pair a true reflection of your style. They’re also comfortable, weighing 451 grams.
| Feature | Dyson OnTrac | Competitors |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Life with ANC | 55 hours | 24-30 hours |
| Frequency Range | 6Hz – 21kHz | Not as extensive |
| Weight | 451g | Lighter (250-385g) |
| Price | $500 | Similar price range |
| Noise Cancelation | Up to 40dB | 25-35dB |
The Dyson OnTrac is not just stylish; it’s also powerful. It has a battery life of 55 hours, even with ANC on. This makes it perfect for those who are always on the move.
When it comes to sound, Dyson OnTrac delivers. It has 40mm neodymium drivers that cover a wide range of frequencies. Although they’re a bit heavier, the weight adds a premium feel.
While the Dyson OnTrac may not have the latest tech, like Bluetooth multipoint, its MyDyson app offers three EQ modes. For those who want style and substance, the Dyson OnTrac is a top choice.
Top Earbuds: Technics EAH-AZ80
The Technics EAH-AZ80 is a top pick for earbuds. It offers great sound quality and strong active noise cancellation. These earbuds are perfect for those who want top-notch audio in a small package.
Overall Performance
The Technics EAH-AZ80 performs amazingly well. It has a wide frequency range and 10mm drivers for a deep sound. They are light, weighing just 7 grams each, but are full of advanced audio tech.
The battery life is also impressive. You get up to 7 hours of playtime on a single charge. And up to 25 hours with the charging case.
ANC Quality and Features
The Technics EAH-AZ80 shines in active noise cancellation. Each earbud has four microphones to block out background noise. This makes for a clear, uninterrupted listening experience.
When compared to other top models, the Technics EAH-AZ80 stands out. It’s known for its excellent sound isolation and ANC.
Here’s how the Technics EAH-AZ80 compares to other leading earbuds:
| Model | Price | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|
| Jabra Elite 10 | $249 | NA |
| Bang & Olufsen Beoplay EX | $399 | NA |
| Audio-Technica ATH-TWX9 | $NA | 6h/NA |
| Beyerdynamic Free Byrd | $NA | 11h/NA (ANC off) |
| 1More Evo | $NA | 5.5h/8h (ANC on/off) |
| Final Audio ZE8000 | $199 | NA |
| Technics EAH-AZ80 | $NA | 7h/25h |
In summary, the Technics EAH-AZ80 is a great choice. It offers top performance, excellent noise cancellation, and long battery life. It’s a strong contender for the best earbuds available.
Best Headphones for Mixed-Device Ecosystems: Beats Studio Pro
The Beats Studio Pro is a top pick for multi-device headphones. It works well with many devices and systems. This means you can enjoy great sound without the trouble of pairing them over and over.
Device Compatibility
The Beats Studio Pro is known for its great device compatibility. It connects easily to phones, tablets, and laptops. This makes it perfect for people who use many devices every day.
Key Features and Upgrades
The Beats Studio Pro has many great features. The sound quality is improved, with deeper bass and clearer highs. They also fit comfortably for long listening times and have easy-to-use touch controls.
The battery life is also impressive, lasting a long time between charges. Plus, they have advanced noise-canceling tech. This makes them great for both work and play.
In summary, the Beats Studio Pro is a top choice for those with many devices. They offer great sound, comfort, and features. This makes them a standout in the market.
| Model | Key Features | Battery Life | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beats Studio Pro | Multi-device compatibility | Up to 40 hours with ANC off | Seamless device integration, |
| Sony WH-1000XM5 | Exceptional sound quality | 30 hours with ANC on, | 30-40 hour battery life |
| Focal Bathys | Wireless design | Up to 30 hours with ANC | Best for audiophiles |
| Apple AirPods Max | Luxury sound | Up to 20 hours with ANC | Ideal for iOS users |
Best Budget Over-Ear Headphones: Sony WH-CH520
The Sony WH-CH520 is a top pick for those looking for quality but affordable headphones. It offers premium features at a lower cost, making it a great option for everyone. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly choice without sacrificing performance, the Sony WH-CH520 is the way to go.
The Sony WH-CH520 excels in comparison tests, standing out as one of the best budget over-ear headphones. It has nearly 53 hours of battery life, beating many others. While the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 Wireless offers about 33 hours, the Sony WH-CH520 lasts much longer.
In terms of price, the Sony WH-CH520 is very competitive. Here’s a comparison table of some popular budget-friendly models:
| Model | Battery Life | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Sony WH-CH520 | Nearly 53 hours | $38 at Amazon |
| Anker Soundcore Life Q20 Wireless | 33 hours | $45 at Amazon |
| Audio-Technica ATH-M20x | N/A (Wired) | $49 at Amazon |
| Philips SHP9500 | N/A (Wired) | $79 at Amazon |
| JBL Vibe Buds True Wireless | 28 hours | $50 at Amazon |
The Sony WH-CH520 is a smart choice for those wanting affordable headphones that last long. It beats other budget options like the JBL Live 460NC Wireless and the Philips SHP9500 in battery life and value.
In summary, the Sony WH-CH520 is a top pick for budget-friendly headphones that don’t skimp on quality and performance.
Best Premium: Cambridge Audio Melomania P100
The Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 headphones are a favorite among audiophiles. They cost $279 and come with many premium features. These features aim to make your listening experience better.
High-end features
The Melomania P100 has top-notch specs. It uses 40mm Mylar drivers for clear and wide sound. It also supports AAC, aptX Adaptive, and aptX Lossless for high-quality Bluetooth playback.
Bluetooth 5.3 lets you listen up to 70 feet away without interruption. It has Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) with three levels: Low, Medium, and High.
The headphones come with a Melomania Connect app. This app has Ambient Noise Control, an equalizer, and Gaming Mode. You can also replace the ear cushions and battery yourself. Plus, you can connect to two devices at once.
Battery life
The Melomania P100 has a long battery life. It lasts up to 60 hours with ANC on and up to 100 hours without. It also charges quickly, giving you 4 hours of playtime with just 5 minutes of charging.
They weigh 11.64 ounces and are light and comfy to wear. Some users might hear static or crackle at low volumes. But, these are small issues in an otherwise great product. The Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 is a top pick for those wanting high-end headphones with great battery life.
Best for Audiophiles: Focal Bathys
The Focal Bathys are the top choice for audiophiles. They offer high-fidelity sound with every detail clear. This is thanks to their careful design.
What makes the Focal Bathys stand out are their special drivers and acoustic tuning. They are perfect for both casual listeners and serious audiophiles. Recently, they were rated 7.9, making them the best casual audiophile headphones.
Let’s look at how they compare to others:
| Headphone Model | Rating | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Sennheiser HD 800 S | 8.6 | Best Audiophile |
| HiFiMan Edition XS | 8.6 | Best Upper Mid-Range |
| Philips Fidelio X2HR | 8.4 | Best Lower Mid-Range |
| Focal Bathys Wireless | 7.9 | Best Casual Audiophile |
The Focal Bathys are a match for the best audiophile headphones. They offer clear sound and are comfortable to wear. For those seeking high-fidelity sound, the Focal Bathys are a must-try.
Best for Sound Quality: Bowers & Wilkins Pi8
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 is known for its top-notch sound quality. It’s a favorite among audiophiles. These headphones offer clear sound and strong noise cancellation.
Clarity and Detail
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 shines in delivering clear and precise sound. Each note is crisp and clear. The Carbon Cone drive units add to the sound quality, making it almost like a live performance.
Noise Cancelation Features
The Pi8 has excellent noise canceling. It also lets you adjust bass, mid, and treble to your liking. This way, you can enjoy your music exactly how you want it.
- Active noise-canceling technology
- IP54 rating for dust and water resistance
- Wireless charging capabilities
- aptX Lossless support for CD-quality audio
Comparison Table: Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 vs. Competitors
| Features | Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Quality | Superior sound quality | Musicality |
| Noise Cancelation | Advanced ANC | Class-leading ANC |
| Design and Build | Classy, sophisticated appearance | Functional design |
| Controls | One pair of commands at a time | More flexible user controls |
| Resistant Rating | IP54 | Not specified |
The Best Headphones You Can Buy: Expert Tested
We tested many headphones in 2024 to find the best. Each model was checked for its strengths. We wanted only the highest quality sound.
The Grado SR325x was our top pick. It won the What Hi-Fi? Award in 2024. It has a detailed sound that impressed us.
The Sony WH-CH520 is great for those on a budget. It lasts 50 hours on battery. The Grado SR80x is the best cheap wired option. It offers great sound and build.
The Austrian Audio Hi-X50 is known for its build quality. It’s durable and sounds amazing.
The Grado GW100x is the best premium wireless headphones. It has great sound and lasts 46 hours on battery. It’s perfect for home or garden use.
- Best Overall: Grado SR325x – Award-winning sound and build.
- Best Cheap Wireless Option: Sony WH-CH520 – 50 hours of non-stop playtime.
- Best Cheap Wired Choice: Grado SR80x – Insightful, punchy performance.
- Best Build Quality: Austrian Audio Hi-X50 – Durable and superior sound.
- Best Premium Wireless: Grado GW100x – High-end sound with extensive battery life.
In summary, the best headphones of 2024 meet all kinds of needs. Whether you’re an audiophile or just like music, we have something for you. Our selection ensures top sound quality and a great listening experience.
| Headphone Model | Standout Feature | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|
| Grado SR325x | Best Overall, Award-Winning | N/A (Wired) |
| Sony WH-CH520 | Best Cheap Wireless Option | 50 hours |
| Grado SR80x | Best Cheap Wired Choice | N/A (Wired) |
| Austrian Audio Hi-X50 | Best Build Quality | N/A (Wired) |
| Grado GW100x | Best Premium Wireless | 46 hours |
Best Wired Earbuds: 1MORE Triple Driver
The 1MORE Triple Driver In-Ear Earphones are a top pick for both audiophiles and casual listeners. They offer amazing sound quality and great value. This makes them some of the best value earbuds out there.
Value for Money
The 1MORE Triple Driver earbuds are a great mix of premium features and affordable price. They are often seen as a better deal than more expensive models. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Earbud Model | Frequency Response | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1MORE Triple Driver | 20-40,000 Hz | $60 – $80 |
| SoundMagic E11C | 15Hz – 22kHz | $40 – $50 |
| Sennheiser IE 200 | 6Hz-20kHz | $100 – $150 |
| Shure AONIC 3 | 20Hz – 18kHz | $200 – $250 |
It’s clear that the 1MORE Triple Driver offers the best value in its price range. They outperform other models, even those with longer frequency responses or higher prices.
Sound Quality
The 1MORE Triple Driver earbuds have a unique triple driver setup. This includes a dynamic driver and two balanced armatures. This setup creates a detailed and rich sound experience.
The 20-40,000 Hz frequency response lets these earbuds play the full range of sound. They can handle deep bass and sparkling highs.
- Dynamic driver for robust bass
- Balanced armatures for clear mids and highs
- Enhanced listening experience without distortion
These features make the 1MORE Triple Driver a great choice. They are especially good compared to other options like the SoundMagic E80D or the Sennheiser IE 600. For those looking for the best value earbuds with top-notch sound, the 1MORE Triple Driver is a top pick.
Conclusion
Choosing the best headphones is a big deal for better sound. We’ve looked at many options for different tastes and needs. From the Monoprice TripleXXX In-Ear earbuds at $49 to the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 at $699, there’s something for everyone.
For gamers, the Sony Pulse Elite Headphones offer top-notch clarity. Audiophiles might prefer the Focal Bathys Wireless Headphones at $799 for their soundstage. The Etymotic ER3 Extended Response Earphones at $179 are also known for clear sound.
For noise-canceling, the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) and Cleer Alpha are great choices. They’re smart and adaptive, priced at $249 and $250. Each headphone has its own benefits, so it’s key to find the right one for you. We aim to help you choose headphones that fit your lifestyle perfectly.