How ECNETNews Tested Headphones
All headphones featured in this guide underwent comprehensive hands-on testing by our dedicated team. Our rigorous process ensures that only the best-performing models are recommended, based on a standardized testing rubric specifically designed for headphones and earbuds.
Here’s a summary of the criteria we used to identify top-performing noise-cancelling headphones:
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Active Noise Cancellation Performance: We placed significant emphasis on this feature during testing, subjecting the headphones to varied environments, including both quiet and noisy settings. This included conversations, external loud music, and everyday work scenarios, ensuring a thorough assessment.
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Comfort: Recognizing the subjective nature of comfort, we evaluated how well each headphone accommodates different head and ear sizes, focusing on adjustable features such as earbud tips and headband modifications.
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Audio Quality: Our sound tests covered a wide range of music genres and podcasts, assessing performance in diverse audio contexts. We also explored various equalizer presets to determine their impact on overall sound quality.
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Battery Life: We monitored battery drain during testing to compare real-world performance against manufacturer claims, ensuring reliability in usage.
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Value: We analyzed the overall performance of each headphone relative to its price, identifying which models offered the best features for their cost. This included assessing whether premium prices aligned with performance benefits.
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Premium Features: Additional features, such as spatial audio and customizable equalizers, were considered, though we prioritized fundamental performance capabilities above these extras.
Our recommendations are derived from a blend of previous reviews and new tests conducted expressly for this guide. Some models, like the AirPods Max, were excluded due to underwhelming value despite decent performance.
Recent Testing Updates
As of January 2025, the Beats Studio Buds+ are confirmed as our top choice for mid-range earbuds, especially when on sale. Although the AirPods 4 were a contender, the Beats maintain a stronger value proposition.
We recently assessed the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e as a replacement for the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 headphones. While we appreciated their sound quality and design, the ANC capabilities and multipoint pairing were less impressive.
In April 2024, we expanded our recommendations to include the Anker Soundcore Life P3i earbuds, Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds, and Sony ULT Wear headphones. Our tests of the JBL Tour One M2 revealed excellent multipoint pairing and battery life, but their ANC performance was not competitive with similarly priced alternatives.
As of August 2024, we removed the Bose 700 headphones from our recommendations for adjustable ANC, following their discontinuation since the release of the Bose QC Ultra headphones in September 2023. We are actively searching for new models that replicate the adjustable noise cancellation previously offered.
We also evaluated the Denon PerL Buds Pro but found their sound quality insufficient to justify their comfort issues and high price tag.
In August and September 2024, we explored the new JBL Live Beam 3 headphones, which boasted impressive sound, a unique design, and a touchscreen case for easy battery life monitoring. However, their noise cancellation fell short for $200 earbuds. We introduced the Dyson OnTrac headphones as our pick for best battery life, featuring an exceptional 55-hour runtime.
What’s Next?
We are currently reviewing the AirPods 4 to determine if they will take the title for best mid-range headphones, particularly given their recent addition of active noise cancellation at a price of $179. In the meantime, more details can be found in our comprehensive AirPods review.
