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With a vast selection of headphones and earbuds available today, from various shapes and styles to a range of prices, finding the right pair often feels overwhelming. While many options may perform adequately for casual listening, those who use their audio devices consistently will benefit from investing in high-quality headphones.
How to Choose the Best Headphones for You
Determining the best headphones is subjective and varies based on personal needs and preferences. Leading brands like Bose, Sony, and Apple produce high-quality devices, but even within these brands, distinct models cater to different users. Some may offer superior value, while others focus on enhanced performance.
Consider your primary use when selecting headphones. Preferences vary: over-ear styles are favored by some, while others lean toward earbuds for convenience. Fitness enthusiasts often prioritize durability and water resistance, while frequent travelers look for comfort and longevity in battery life. Those who value audio quality may seek features like customizable equalizers or advanced noise cancellation.
We’ve rigorously tested a variety of headphones featured in this guide to help you find the perfect match for your audio needs.
Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones: Bose QuietComfort Ultra
These headphones are a prime choice for those prioritizing exceptional active noise cancellation (ANC) along with comfort and premium features. While they represent a significant investment, dedicated users may find them worthwhile for daily wear.
Our testing confirmed that the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones provide unparalleled comfort, remaining pleasant to wear even for extended periods. They offer rich sound quality and impressive noise-cancellation capabilities, ideal for minimizing distractions during travel or daily activities.
Battery Life: 24 hours | Colors: White, Black, Sandstone
Best Sound-First Headphones: Sony WH-1000XM5
The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones deliver remarkable sound quality and active noise cancellation, making them the perfect choice for music aficionados. With a robust 30-hour battery life, they offer an attractive alternative to pricier options.
Our evaluation highlighted their standout sound profile, praised for clarity and depth. They also feature user-friendly controls and a reliable Bluetooth connection.
Battery Life: 30 hours | Colors: Black, Blue, Silver
Best Noise-Cancelling Earbuds: Apple AirPods Pro
The AirPods Pro excel in portability and balanced sound, making them versatile for various environments. Ideal for on-the-go users, these earbuds offer exceptional ANC performance.
Following a recent update that introduced USB-C charging, they now provide an even more convenient experience. With impressive battery longevity, the AirPods are frequently discounted, making them accessible for most budgets.
Battery Life: 6 hours (30 hours with charging case) | Colors: White
Best AirPods Alternative: Beats Studio Buds +
The Beats Studio Buds + offer a budget-friendly alternative to the AirPods Pro without sacrificing essential features like good ANC and sound quality. Their enjoyable design and integration within the Apple ecosystem make them a favored choice for many users.
Battery Life: 6 hours (27 hours with charging case) | Colors: Ivory, Black, Transparent, Silver
Best Workout Headphones: Beats Fit Pro
The Beats Fit Pro are specifically designed to stay securely in your ears during workouts. They combine excellent sound with features that enhance the workout experience, including water resistance and a comfortable fit.
Battery Life: 6 hours (24 hours with charging case) | Colors: Black, White, Coral, Gray, Purple, Blue, Yellow, Tan, Brown, Beige
Best Wired Earbuds: Marshall Mode
For those who prefer wired options, the affordable Marshall Mode earbuds deliver impressive sound quality without the need for constant charging. With clear audio performance at a budget-friendly price point, they stand out among their peers.
Battery Life: N/A | Colors: Black
How We Tested the Best Headphones
Our rigorous testing process examined a wide array of headphones to ensure we recommend only the finest products. Each model was assessed based on crucial factors such as sound quality, noise cancellation, comfort, customization options, and battery life.
The selection process involved comparison with competing models, highlighting the strengths of each product. While popular choices like the Apple AirPods Max were considered, they fell short due to practical disadvantages and pricing, guiding us to present superior alternatives.
As of August 2024, our recommendations reflect the most reliable and high-quality headphones available for varying needs and budgets.
