The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Wireless Headphones: Exploring Brands, Features, and Price Ranges

In a world where wires are becoming obsolete, wireless headphones have grown in popularity and demand. Whether you're a music enthusiast or a casual listener, finding the best wireless headphones can greatly enhance your audio experience. With numerous options available, it can be overwhelming to make a choice. However, fear not! In this article, we will delve into the world of wireless headphones, exploring different brands, price ranges, and features, all to help you find that perfect pair that suits your needs. So sit back, relax, and prepare to enter the world of premium audio without the hassle of tangled cords.

Marshall Major IV presents a portable pair of on-ear headphones

If you're familiar with on-ear headphones, you're aware that they are typically smaller than traditional over-ear headphones. Additionally, they can quickly become uncomfortable. However, the Marshall Major IV stands out from the crowd with its memory foam ear pads and lightweight design, weighing only 165 grams.

Despite their compact size, the Major IV headphones also offer folding capabilities. The clever toggle control conveniently centralizes commands. Along with Bluetooth capability, they can also be used with a 3.5mm connection. While you may miss out on certain apps and high-quality codecs, the priority for some may be finding a comfortable and compact pair of headphones. Besides, you can always use an EQ app to customize the sound.

What is the performance of the microphone in the Marshall Major IV? Under ideal conditions, the Marshall Major IV provides a natural sound. However, it may struggle to eliminate environmental noise, though your voice will still come through.

Demonstration of the Marshall Major IV microphone (Ideal conditions):

Demonstration of the Marshall Major IV microphone (Windy conditions):

How does the microphone sound to you?

363 votes

What sets the Sony WH-1000XM5 apart as the best noise canceling headphones?

Previously occupied by the Sony WH-1000XM4, the WH-1000XM5 now takes its place. It's not surprising that it reigns as one of the top wireless headphones, as it isn't drastically different from its predecessor, offering the same great app experience and high-tech features. However, these two headsets diverge in terms of sound quality, ANC, and microphone performance.

The newer model improves upon its predecessor in terms of active noise canceling and passive isolation, effectively blocking out environmental noise. This makes it ideal for travel or studying when you want to block out the outside world. With the XM5 headphones, you can enjoy a more balanced sound compared to the XM4, which is well-suited for those with diverse music preferences. While the XM5 still has a strong bass presence, it remains controlled and won't overpower your listening experience.

Moreover, the WH-1000XM5 boasts impressive features, such as ambient sound control options, automatic ear detection, a superb microphone, and speak-to-chat functionality, which automatically pauses your music when you speak. It also supports Bluetooth multipoint, allowing for easy switching between two devices. Retaining many beloved features from its predecessor, the WH-1000XM5 is an obvious choice.

How is the microphone in the Sony WH-1000XM5? The Sony WH-1000XM5 features an excellent microphone that excels in noise rejection. Our wind conditions demo showcases the microphone's ability to eliminate background noise. Have a listen:

Demonstration of the Sony WH-1000XM5 microphone (Ideal conditions):

Demonstration of the Sony WH-1000XM5 microphone (Wind conditions):

How does the microphone sound to you?

11000 votes

Is it better to choose the Sony WH-1000XM4 over the Sony WH-1000XM5?While the Sony WH-1000XM5 has taken the top spot on this list, the Sony WH-1000XM4 is still a worthwhile choice if you're looking to save some money. The WH-1000XM4 continues to offer excellent noise canceling, great sound quality, and many premium features found in its successor, the WH-1000XM5.

Sony WH-1000XM4

Sony WH-1000XM4

Excellent ANC • Sound quality • Connectivity options • Auto-wear detection

An outstanding pair of noise canceling headphones.

The Sony WH-1000XM4 is equipped with high-quality Bluetooth codecs, delivering great sound and improved noise canceling. With a good battery life and smart features like auto-pause and Bluetooth multipoint, these headphones are a versatile choice.

The award for the best design goes to the Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700

The Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700 are a fantastic headset, even when compared to the newer Bose QuietComfort 45. Serving as the successor to the QC35 II, it boasts a completely refreshed design that puts its predecessor to shame. Although the NCH 700 does not feature folding hinges, its ear cups can still be rotated to lay flat, and the new metal headband provides enhanced durability.

Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700

Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700

8.2

Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700

Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700

Read the reviewRead the review

To control your music, you interact with a touch-sensitive gesture pad on the right ear cup, which offers near-perfect touch sensitivity. The headset provides excellent sound quality and effective active noise canceling. Bose has been dedicated to improving the noise canceling capabilities of its headsets with significant firmware updates. Over the years, both the Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700 and Bose QC 35 II have seen notable improvements in noise canceling.

The battery life of this headset is around 21 hours, and it can be charged via the USB-C port. Fast charging is efficient, with just a 15-minute charge providing 120 minutes of playback. These sleek headphones are designed without sharp edges and have highly responsive touch controls.

How does the microphone sound in the Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700? The microphone in the Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700 performs well in phone calls and Zoom calls, and it features good noise rejection.

Demonstration of the Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700 microphone (Ideal):

Demonstration of the Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700 microphone (Wind):

How does the microphone sound to you?

7061 votes

The Sennheiser HD 350BT provides excellent sound quality at an affordable price

While not many would rave about the sound quality of sub $100 headphones, the Sennheiser HD 350BT is an exception. These over-ear Sennheiser headphones deliver excellent sound that rivals more expensive headsets.

The HD 350BT is suitable for anyone in need of wireless headphones, offering premium features at a reasonable price. It supports various Bluetooth codecs, including SBC, AAC, aptX, and aptX Low Latency. This ensures high-quality wireless audio regardless of your operating system. However, the lack of a headphone jack in the HD 350BT means wired audio is not available.

The appearance of the Sennheiser HD 350BT closely resembles its noise canceling counterpart, the Sennheiser HD 450BT. Rest assured, the HD 350BT offers enhanced comfort with reduced clamping force, making it suitable for long listening sessions. However, individuals with larger ear lobes may find the ear pads uncomfortable. Depending on your ear anatomy, you may find that they fit more like on-ear headphones rather than over-ear.

The HD 350BT (left) looks nearly identical to the noise cancelling Sennheiser HD 450BT (right) headphones.

The sound quality is superb, with the dynamic drivers delivering accurate audio across the low and midrange frequencies. This precise response is perfect for individuals who like to fine-tune their headphones using the Sennheiser Smart Control app. Regardless of your music preferences, everything will sound accurate through these headphones.

Sennheiser HD 350BT Wireless HeadphonesSennheiser HD 350BT Wireless Headphones

Compact and travel-friendly design • Bluetooth 5.0; SBC, AAC, aptX, and aptX LL support • Sidetone effect during calls

Headphones that offer both sound quality and convenience without compromise.

Sennheiser has not compromised on sound quality with the HD 350BT, but this headset does have its limitations. With the removal of the headphone jack, Bluetooth streaming is the only playback option. While the headphones are lightweight and portable, the narrow ear pads may not be comfortable for all listeners. If you want to support the Sennheiser brand and prefer a more comfortable build, consider the Sennheiser PXC 550-II.

See the price on Amazon

How does the microphone in the Sennheiser HD 350BT perform? The microphone in the Sennheiser HD 350BT delivers good quality for phone calls and video calls, with a sidetone feature that allows you to hear yourself while speaking (which can be turned off if desired). Take a listen:

Demonstration of the Sennheiser HD 350BT microphone (Non-standardized):

How does the microphone sound to you?

4973 votes

Is it worth saving up for the Apple AirPods Max?

The Apple AirPods Max comes with a price tag of $449.99 on Amazon, which may require significant investment for many individuals. While we cannot provide financial advice, it may not be wise to recommend such a pricey purchase when other products offer similar quality at a lower cost. However, the AirPods Max outperforms other headphones in terms of active noise canceling and sound quality. If money is not a concern and you value absolute convenience (especially if you are deeply ingrained in the Apple ecosystem), the AirPods Max may be the right choice for you.

The Apple AirPods Max has a sleek design, though it may take some time to appreciate its overall aesthetic.

Each AirPods Max ear cup contains Apple's H1 chip, which provides ample processing power for features like Adaptive EQ, Transparency mode, active noise canceling, hands-free Siri access, and automatic device switching. The availability of these features depends on the basic requirements of your Apple hardware.

The battery life is similar to the Sony WH-1000XM4, lasting around 20 hours on a full charge. Charging is done via a Lightning cable, and passthrough audio is possible with a Lightning to USB-C cable, which can be useful for audiophiles.

Apple AirPods MaxApple AirPods Max

One of the best noise canceling capabilities • 20-hour battery life • Well-designed ear pads

A remarkable pair of headphones with superior noise canceling functionality.

With best-in-class noise canceling and a battery life of twenty hours, the AirPods Max wireless headphones offer exceptional performance. They deliver excellent frequency response and feature impressive audio capabilities.

The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless presents a logical option

The touch controls effortlessly operate on the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless.

If your aim is to acquire a reliable pair of wireless headphones with commendable codec support, the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless may be the appropriate choice. Firstly, Sennheiser equipped the headphones with SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, and aptX Adaptive codecs, meaning it establishes a connection with any device and delivers high-quality audio. Additionally, it offers a 3.5mm connection and USB-C compatibility for listening. Moreover, it supports Bluetooth multipoint.

The fact that the headphones closely align with our home frequency response curve implies that little equalization is required. However, if desired, you can modify it using the Smart Control app. The onboard active noise cancellation (ANC) is not quite as powerful as that of the Sony WH-1000XM5, although it still proves beneficial during your commute. Lastly, while the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless lacks spatial audio like the WH-1000XM5, it outperforms nearly all other headphones we have tested with its exceptional battery life of 56 hours and 21 minutes.

Considering all these factors, the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless exhibits a noteworthy combination of form and functionality.

Sennheiser Momentum 4Sennheiser Momentum 4

App for adjusting EQ • Sleek and elegant design • USB-C charging

Premium over-ear headphones with advanced ANC that prioritize style and comfort

For a fully immersive music experience, active noise-canceling (ANC) over-ear headphones are a must-have. The Sennheiser Momentum 4 excels in both style and comfort while delivering the essential features desired by discerning audiophiles.

Check the price on Amazon

Wait a moment! Something has changed:

Some of our selected headphones' frequency response and isolation charts were measured using our previous testing system. Since then, we have acquired a Bruel & Kjaer 5128 test fixture (along with the necessary support equipment) to update our testing procedures and data collection. It will take some time to update all our past test results, but once we are able to do so, we will update this article (as well as many others!) with improved sound quality measurements and isolation performance plots. These updates will feature a new chart aesthetic (black background instead of white).

We appreciate your patience and hope to have everything sorted soon.

Important details about top-notch wireless headphones

The Monoprice BT-600ANC supports aptX HD, AAC, and wired playback.

In the early stages of Bluetooth technology, achieving a stable connection was challenging. Fortunately, such connectivity issues are now rare due to the incremental improvements made in Bluetooth generations. Nowadays, the main considerations when choosing wireless headphones are whether they feature active noise cancellation (ANC), the selection of Bluetooth codecs (see below), and battery life. Everything else can be categorized as additional luxuries, though it doesn't imply that you shouldn't care; however, certain specific features may not be available on all headphones.

Regardless of whether you opt for wired or wireless headphones, it is generally advisable to start with a pair that provides excellent sound quality. Bluetooth headphones come with the added advantage of companion apps that allow you to make on-the-go adjustments to the equalizer (EQ), ANC and ambient modes, touch controls, spatial audio, and more.

What exactly is active noise cancellation and how does it function?

Jasper Lastoria / SoundGuys

Most headphones are equipped with dedicated ANC buttons for instant control.

If you are genuinely curious about the science behind active noise cancellation, you can delve deeper. However, if you prefer the TL;DR version without having to refer to your old textbook, here it is:

Small microphones built into the headphones capture the surrounding sound, which is then countered by playing the exact opposite sound wave into your ears along with your music. Since the sound wave produced by the headphones is essentially the opposite of the external sound wave, it cancels out the noise, allowing you to enjoy your music in peace. See? Science can be cool and comprehensible.

How do Bluetooth codecs operate?

So, you believe you're prepared to comprehend what makes LDAC or aptX HD impressive? Brace yourself, as we're about to discuss a plethora of technical terms and numbers. Nevertheless, we'll attempt to keep it concise.

The performance of the AAC codec varies significantly depending on the source device.

LDAC is touted as superior because it can carry more audible information than the standard SBC codec. However, our testing has revealed that LDAC cannot completely replace a wired connection. Fortunately, any performance limitations become less noticeable as we age, as our ears, sorry to say, are not as sharp when we get older.

Even if your phone currently lacks support for these codecs, it is still advisable to invest in headphones that do. Android 8.0 will bring support for these wireless standards to many smartphones in the near future, and assuming your headphones last longer than your smartphone, your listening experience will only improve alongside the advancement of technology in your phone.

Is it possible to use Bluetooth headphones for watching TV? Bluetooth headphones can indeed be used to watch TV, although this usually necessitates the use of a Bluetooth base transmitter, such as the Sennheiser BT T100 Bluetooth Audio Transmitter (), which acts as an intermediary between the TV and the headphones. Some TVs do have built-in Bluetooth capability, but typically, wireless headphones for TV usage rely on radio frequencies (RF) instead, as exemplified by the Sennheiser RS 195 RF ($3299.99 at Amazon), which transmits audio wirelessly to your headphones.

When considering Bluetooth headphones to pair with a TV, it is important to ensure that your headphones support compatible low-latency Bluetooth codecs such as aptX Adaptive or aptX Low Latency to ensure synchronized audio and video. An ideal choice would be the aforementioned Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless, which utilizes aptX Adaptive and can be paired with the Sennheiser BT T100 (in the absence of Bluetooth on your TV).

If you prefer not to spend on a dedicated Bluetooth base or RF wireless headphones, consider getting a pair of wireless gaming headphones if your TV has a USB port. These headphones are much more affordable than RF-based TV headphones and do not require an additional base. For instance, the Razer Barracuda X (2022) comes with a removable microphone and a 2.4GHz dongle that can be plugged into your TV's USB port, and it is available for only .99 at Amazon. However, it is not recommended to use the Barracuda X (2022) for Bluetooth connectivity with your TV, as it only supports the SBC codec, which may result in noticeable latency.

Why should you trust SoundGuys?

Each writer at SoundGuys possesses extensive experience in reporting on the consumer audio market, and our staff strictly adheres to a rigorous ethics policy. We do not publish sponsored content on our website, even though it has become the norm. The survival of SoundGuys primarily relies on readers' satisfaction with their purchases. We take pride in transparently presenting objective facts while considering the subjective experiences that help contextualize the performance of audio products. Whenever we make a mistake, we rectify it and take responsibility for it.

Wireless vs True wireless: what sets them apart?

Wireless headphones either completely eliminate the need for a cable connection to your audio player or use it as a backup option. However, some of the finest wireless earbuds still employ a wire that keeps the two earpieces connected to each other, typically through a headband or neckband.

On the other hand, true wireless earbuds eliminate the need for any wires altogether. Instead of being connected by a cable, they establish a wireless connection to one another. The advantage, of course, is the absence of a cable. However, the downside is that they are slightly more prone to getting misplaced, which is why many of the top true wireless headphones offer a Find My-style feature to help locate any misplaced earbuds.

Which brand offers the best wireless headphones?

The best brand of wireless headphones ultimately depends on your personal preferences. The best brand for you is the one that provides the features and audio quality you desire at a price you are willing to pay.

That being said, there are some brands that have established a solid reputation in the market. Apple's headphones are a great option if you use Apple hardware. Sony offers a range of excellent all-rounders, and Bose, being the pioneer of noise-canceling headphones, produces some of the finest noise-canceling headphones and earbuds available.

It is advisable to consider the specific usage scenarios for your headphones rather than focusing solely on the brand. For example, there are headphones designed specifically for running or swimming, headphones that are comfortable for all-day wear, and headphones that provide an immersive experience for enjoying music on your favorite sofa.

Best Upper Mid-Range Bluetooth Headphones

If you are in search of a more affordable alternative to our top pick while still maintaining a significant portion of the premium design and features, the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless is worth considering. These headphones are as sturdy and durable as the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless and offer over 62 hours of continuous battery life, providing peace of mind even if you forget to charge them. However, their ANC is not as powerful as that of the Sony headphones, and they do not block out as much noise from sources such as bus engines. Nevertheless, they still deliver overall good performance.

These comfortable over-ear headphones boast a bass-heavy sound signature that can be fine-tuned using the companion app's graphic equalizer and presets. They also support aptX and aptX HD codecs, allowing for high-quality audio streaming and simultaneous connection to a PC and smartphone. The built-in microphone records speech clearly, ensuring effective communication. If you prioritize microphone performance, the Sony WH-H910N/h.ear on 3 Wireless offers superior mic quality. They also provide better ANC performance overall, albeit with a shorter continuous battery life and the ability to pair with only one device at a time.

Read our review

Best Budget Wireless Bluetooth Headphones

The Anker Soundcore Life Q30 Wireless is the top choice in the budget range for wireless headphones. These comfortable over-ear headphones feature adjustable ANC, allowing you to customize the setting according to the ambient noise. In "Transport" mode, they effectively block out significant amounts of sound, such as the noise from bus engines, making them ideal for daily commutes. However, there is a noticeable difference in sound quality when ANC is turned on or off. With ANC off, the audio may sound somewhat hollow and thin compared to the fuller sound with ANC enabled.

These headphones do leak audio at high volumes, so people in moderately noisy environments, such as an office, may hear the content you are listening to. Out of the box, they offer an exciting sound profile that appeals to fans of pop and rock genres, with enhanced thump, rumble, and impact. However, their sound is not as neutral or balanced as that of the Anker Soundcore Life Q35 Wireless. Vocals and lead instruments may sound somewhat muddy and cluttered, although their companion app allows for sound adjustments through an equalizer and presets.

The Life Q30 Wireless also supports multi-device pairing and provides over 44 hours of continuous playback, making them reliable for long days on the move. If you prefer a slightly cheaper alternative, consider the Wyze Noise-Cancelling Headphones Wireless. They offer a similar sound profile, albeit with a more neutral bass range compared to the Q30. However, their ANC does not block out as much lower-frequency background noise.

Read our review

Best Sounding Wireless Bluetooth Headphones

If you prioritize sound quality, the Focal Bathys Wireless is the ideal choice. These audiophile headphones, equipped with wireless connectivity and ANC, stand out among other high-fidelity models that typically feature open-back designs and wired connections. You can stream your favorite high-resolution tracks over Bluetooth using aptX-Adaptive or wired via the USB-DAC connection that converts digital audio signals to analog.

The default sound profile of these headphones is well-balanced, with rich bass and adequate thump, punch, and impact, making them well-suited for genres like EDM and hip-hop. Vocals and instruments are present, albeit slightly pushed towards the back of the mix. The companion app provides a graphic equalizer and presets for complete control over the sound reproduction.

The ANC of the Bathys Wireless is also highly effective, with multiple isolation settings. While it may not completely eliminate low-bass noise like the rumble from bus engines or heavy traffic, it excels at isolating typical office noise, such as background conversations and computer fan noise. These headphones also support multi-device pairing, offer comfortable extended wear without causing fatigue, and boast a 29-hour continuous battery life that lasts for several workdays before needing to be recharged. However, they are on the bulkier side and may slip off your head during moderate or intense movements.

Read our review

Top Wireless Bluetooth Headphones for Phone Conversations

The Bose 700 Headphones Wireless are the top-rated Bluetooth headphones for phone calls in our tests. Despite the limitations of Bluetooth technology that affect audio and mic quality, these premium over-ear headphones are unmatched in this category. They offer the best microphone performance on our list, capturing your voice clearly even in moderately noisy environments. With a dedicated mic mute/unmute button and over 20 hours of continuous battery life, they are perfect for heavy call users. In terms of comfort and durability, they excel as well.

These headphones have a slightly bass-rich sound profile that maintains clear and accurate vocals during phone conversations. They also come with an app that allows you to customize their sound with a graphic EQ. While their active noise cancellation (ANC) feature is not as advanced as the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless, it effectively blocks out background noise, ensuring you can hear the person you're talking to even in noisy environments.

If you prioritize long battery life over ANC, consider the Audeze Maxwell Wireless headphones. Although they are primarily marketed as gaming headphones, they have a discreet design. With over 77 hours of battery life on a single charge, they are perfect for users who need their headphones to last for extended periods. Additionally, the boom mic on the Audeze headphones provides better voice isolation than the integrated mic on the Bose headphones. However, they are slightly less comfortable to wear.

Click here for our full review.

Other Noteworthy Options

• Apple AirPods Max Wireless: The Apple AirPods Max Wireless is a high-end over-ear headphone with a premium design, well-balanced sound, and excellent noise isolation capabilities. While its ANC system is not as effective as the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless and it offers fewer sound customization options, it is still a solid choice. Read our review here.
• Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless: The Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless is the previous generation of the Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless and is still a popular choice for premium over-ear headphones. It has a more neutral sound profile out of the box compared to its successor and offers superior ANC performance in the bass range. However, its battery life is shorter. Read our review here.
• Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 Wireless: The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 Wireless is a Bluetooth headphone designed for audiophiles. While it lacks features like ANC and aptX support that the Focal Bathys Wireless offers, its sound profile is more neutral with a well-balanced bass range that doesn't overpower other frequencies. Read our review here.

Recent Updates

Jun 27, 2023: We have made minor changes to the information in this article to ensure accuracy and reflect current product availability. Our recommendations remain the same.

May 29, 2023: We have reintroduced the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 Wireless as our pick for Best Cheap Wireless Bluetooth Headphones based on user preferences.

May 05, 2023: We have added the Audeze Maxwell as an alternative suggestion to the Bose 700 Headphones Wireless in the article.

Mar 16, 2023: We have replaced the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 Wireless with the Logitech G435 LIGHTSPEED Wireless and added the Wyze Noise-Cancelling Headphones Wireless as an alternative suggestion to the Anker Soundcore Life Q30 Wireless.

Feb 15, 2023: We have reviewed and updated our picks for accuracy and product availability. We have also included a comparison between the HiFiMan Ananda-BT Wireless and the Focal Bathys Wireless.

Immersive Over-Ear Sound Experience

The Focal Bathys is an exceptional pair of premium wireless headphones. They are adorned with distinctive illuminated logos on each earcup and deliver even more impressive sound quality. Drawing inspiration from Focal's high-end lineup, these noise-canceling headphones offer some of the clearest and most enjoyable audio reproduction available.

Additionally, the Bathys headphones boast a high-quality digital-to-analog converter (DAC) built-in, allowing for enhanced sound when plugged into devices via the USB-C port. With a battery life of up to 30 hours, the Bathys ensures your music accompanies you on the longest of journeys. They are particularly suited for travelers who appreciate both style and performance, despite the price tag.

The Finest-Sounding Earbuds

If you're an audiophile on the move who appreciates high-fidelity sound, look no further than the Astell & Kern UW100 (8/10, WIRED Recommends). These buds come equipped with a 32-bit digital-to-analog converter and the aptX adaptive codec, resulting in top-tier audio conversion and near-lossless wireless sound reproduction. For ultimate fidelity, the headphones also feature two balanced armature drivers. They offer the most impressive wireless sound experience I've encountered, making them a perfect choice for those who enjoy focused listening during workouts or daily activities.

Alternative Wireless Headphones We Tested

Although the five winners mentioned above clearly stood out as the top options, we also considered and tested nine other wireless headphones that are worth your attention if none of our top picks meet your specific requirements. Here are the runner-ups for the best wireless headphones:

• Bose QuietComfort 45 ($278 at Best Buy): These headphones are a common sight on planes and trains. They offer great value with their affordability, impressive battery life (up to 24 hours), and comfortable design. Their superior noise cancellation and compact, foldable form make them an excellent choice for frequent travelers and commuters.

The Apple-Beats partnership resulted in the creation of the Beats Studio 3 headphones. They offer similar features to the Apple AirPods Max at a more affordable price. These well-designed, foldable headphones provide outstanding sound quality and are a great alternative for those who want a high-quality option without the premium feel.

• Master & Dynamic MW65 ($299 at Amazon): Boasting superior audio quality, two impressive noise cancellation modes, up to 24 hours of battery life, and 40mm Beryllium drivers, these headphones offer a unique retro design made from anodized aluminum and premium leather. While their regular price may seem steep ($499), they can be a great deal when on sale.

• Bang & Olufsen Beoplay Portal ($358 at Amazon): Designed as gaming headphones, these headphones offer much more. They feature large, touch-sensitive controls on both earcups and deliver high-fidelity, three-dimensional sound, especially when playing Dolby Atmos content. With 19 hours of battery life, various EQ presets, and a foldable design, they are well-suited for gaming and other media consumption. While they lack a carrying case and come at a higher price point (MSRP: $500), they are an excellent choice when on sale.

• Sennheiser Momentum 4 ($289 at Amazon): Featuring a great sound quality, these headphones provide adaptive noise cancellation that activates even when you don't play audio, allowing you to enjoy peace and quiet. With high-quality stereo sound and an overall warm sound signature, Sennheiser's "signature sound," they offer a versatile and consistently good listening experience.

• BeyerDynamic Amiron Wireless ($549 at BeyerDynamic): These headphones have a bulky design and lack foldability, resulting in a large and thick hardshell case. However, they offer exceptional comfort with thick padding and memory foam. With large 45mm drivers, they produce deep bass and rich, full-bodied sound. Their noise cancellation works well, and the touch-sensitive earcups provide convenient controls. Despite their regular price being higher than their competitors (MSRP: 9), they can be a worthy investment during a sale.

• Yamaha YH-L700A ($400 at Amazon): These headphones feature a plastic and cloth design, offering a lightweight feel. While they are adjustable, they may not provide a secure fit for everyone, which can lead to discomfort during use. However, their 3D spatial audio with head tracking works well with compatible devices, providing an immersive sound experience. The audio automatically adjusts to your surroundings, ensuring a consistent volume regardless of ambient noise. The mobile app offers extensive settings and greatly enhances sound quality across all types of audio.

• Shure Aonic 50 ($299 at Amazon): Initially, these headphones feel cheaply made due to their plastic outer design. However, they provide a comfortable and snug fit, although sudden head movements can cause some wobbling. With practical button controls on the earcups and a mobile app for convenient adjustments, the Shure Aonic 50 delivers balanced audio and satisfying noise cancellation. Despite their price point, the headphones provide a gratifying audio experience.

• Bose Noise Cancelling 700 ($379 at Amazon): These headphones feature a sleek design that tilts the earcups to align with the shape of the human head. With a soft artificial leather coating and intuitive onboard controls, they offer a secure yet comfortable fit. The Bose Noise Cancelling 700s come with 11 adjustable levels of noise cancellation, including a Conversation Mode for easy interaction with others. The headphones use eight microphones to optimize their adaptive and adjustable noise cancellation, resulting in crisp and clear phone call quality. The mobile app allows for convenient audio equalizer adjustments. Despite their lower price compared to comparable headphones, they deliver comparable performance. Read our full review here.

• Cleer Alpha ($200 at Amazon): The Cleer Alphas have the look and feel of higher-priced headphones. They produce impressive, well-balanced sound at default settings and feature spatial audio for an extra immersive experience. Their integrated noise cancellation is highly effective, making phone calls clear, and the leather-covered earcups with memory foam padding ensure a comfortable fit. With a generous 35-hour battery life, the Cleer Alphas are excellent value headphones, offering great performance for daily use.

• Treblab Z7 Pro ($127 at Amazon): These lightweight headphones feature a plastic chassis, memory foam earcups, and soft leather coverings. They offer IPX4 water resistance, making them resistant to sweat and light rain. The Treblab Z7 Pro's standout feature is its exceptional battery life of up to 45 hours. However, their sound quality is only average, and they lack a mobile app for customization. While convenient to transport with their folding design and hardshell case, they do not deliver the robust and immersive sound quality of higher-priced options.

My Methodology for Testing the Top Wireless Headphones

To ensure an accurate evaluation of each pair of headphones, I conducted extensive tests using an Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max. I listened to music from popular streaming services like Apple Music, Tidal, and Spotify, focusing on tracks by Katy Perry and Harry Styles. These artists are known for producing intricate and complex music, making them ideal for assessing the headphones' audio quality. Additionally, I paid close attention to songs like "Left and Right" by Charlie Puth and Jung Kook, which intentionally switch between the left and right audio channels. This allowed me to determine how well the headphones create an immersive experience, with the music seemingly moving around the listener's head.

In addition to music, I tested the hands-free phone call capabilities of each pair of headphones. I evaluated the clarity, volume consistency, and the effectiveness of the noise cancellation feature in eliminating background noise. I also tested the headphones' performance in windy conditions and assessed their ability to cancel out environmental sounds.

Using an Apple iPad Pro, I further evaluated the headphones by watching the first 15 minutes of two popular TV series: Star Trek: Discovery and Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power. These shows are known for their high production quality, combining dialogue, sound effects, and dynamic background music. I paid particular attention to the clarity of the audio and whether it felt immersive, replicating a theater-like experience with surround sound.

I also took into account factors such as comfort, craftsmanship, portability, customization options, and special features. One noteworthy feature is spatial audio, which significantly enhances the immersive listening experience when watching TV shows or movies. Furthermore, I explored the differences between passive noise cancellation, active noise cancellation, and adaptive noise cancellation in terms of their effectiveness in reducing or eliminating ambient sounds.

Considering sound quality, comfort, and overall design, I meticulously analyzed all the factors mentioned above to arrive at my final selection of the top 10 wireless headphone models. Without a doubt, these rigorous tests played a crucial role in determining the winners.

Choosing the Perfect Wireless Headphones

While modern wireless headphones offer various audio-enhancing features such as noise cancellation, wind reduction, transparency modes, and spatial audio, selecting the right pair doesn't require you to be an audio engineer. Instead, keep an eye out for the following qualities when making your choice.

Michael Orland, a well-known pianist and arranger who has worked with American Idol and various music superstars, emphasizes that physical comfort should be your top priority. Great sound quality means little if the headphones become uncomfortable after prolonged use. As for other features like price, support for spatial audio or Dolby Atmos, and noise cancellation, these are personal preferences. Not all streaming services support spatial audio or Dolby Atmos, and not everyone needs or wants noise cancellation. Prices will also vary depending on individual priorities.

Drew Ryan Scott, a successful recording artist and songwriter, focuses on both sound quality and comfort, given his extensive headphone usage during work. He prefers the ability to manually control sound via a mobile app, rather than relying on presets. However, Scott notes that whether you adjust bass, treble, or mid-tones depends on personal preference and the type of music you are listening to. Headphone presets are designed to cater to the average listener and are typically more than sufficient for streaming favorite songs or albums.

When it comes to choosing between headphones and earbuds, Scott adds that he has been equally impressed by the audio quality of both, so it ultimately boils down to personal preference.

Gabe Lopez, a chart-topping music producer and songwriter, believes that sound quality is paramount. He seeks headphones that reproduce the original recording faithfully, with clear and present frequencies. He also appreciates the option to try preset settings like pop or rock, as they cater to listeners' preferences. However, Lopez acknowledges that people may want to emphasize bass or high-end sounds according to their taste.

To determine if a pair of headphones is good, he simply plays a few of his favorite songs. If the songs sound as good as or even better than on other equipment, he considers them to be high-quality headphones. On the other hand, if the songs sound thin or lacking in depth, he advises looking for another pair.

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Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)

The Ideal Earphones for iPhone Users

Why We Selected Them

The second-generation AirPods Pro excel in noise cancellation, effectively eliminating low rumbling sounds and reducing complex higher-frequency noises. Their adaptive transparency mode intelligently moderates audio spikes from your surroundings, preventing any disruptive noise that exceeds 85dB. Furthermore, these earphones deliver excellent audio performance.

Who Should Buy Them

If you're looking for seamless integration with Apple devices, these AirPods Pro are the perfect choice. Pairing them is as simple as opening the case, and you can fine-tune the in-ear fit, personalize the spatial audio experience, and adjust the on-ear controls through the AirPods section in the iOS settings menu. Although it would be great to have a customizable EQ and a higher waterproof rating, these earphones still surpass other options in Apple's current audio lineup.

PROS

• Exceptional audio performance with a rich and well-balanced sound

• Outstanding active noise cancellation

• Impressive adaptive transparency mode

• Convenient charging case with a built-in speaker

• Seamless integration with Apple devices

CONS

• Lacks support for hi-res codecs

• Offers non-adjustable EQ presets only

Sony WH-1000XM5

Perfect for Audiophiles

Why We Selected Them

While Bose may have a slight edge in active noise cancellation, Sony's WH-1000XM5 headphones boast superior audio quality. They offer a more accurate sound signature and support the hi-res-capable LDAC codec.

Who Should Buy Them

Although these headphones come with a hefty price tag, their excellent audio performance, adjustable EQ, and highly effective active noise cancellation make them a worthwhile investment. While other premium options may excel in certain areas, the WH-1000XM5 offers the best overall experience.

PROS

• Outstanding audio performance with robust bass and crisp highs

• Impressive active noise cancellation

• Intuitive on-ear controls

• Companion app with adjustable EQ and customization settings

• Comfortable and stylish design

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$384.99 on Amazon

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Anker Soundcore Space A40

Top Choice for Affordable Earphones

Why We Selected Them

The Anker Soundcore Space A40 earphones provide the best sound quality under $100, thanks to their effective noise cancellation and rich audio performance. The companion app offers intuitive controls, including noise cancellation adjustments and a customizable EQ.

Who Should Buy Them

If your budget is limited to $100, these earphones deserve your attention. They outperform similarly priced competitors in noise cancellation and offer above-average battery life, making them perfect for regular commuters or travelers who prefer not to break the bank. Furthermore, they don't compromise on sound quality and even support the high-end LDAC codec.

PROS

• Rich and detailed audio performance

• Quality active noise cancellation within this price range

• Companion app with customizable EQ and controls

• Strong battery life

• Water-resistant build

CONS

• Light on sub-bass

• Noise cancellation subtly affects sound signature

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.00 on Amazon

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JBL Endurance Peak 3

Affordable Earphones Ideal for Workouts

Why We Selected Them

The JBL Endurance Peak 3 earphones feature a completely waterproof and dustproof design, making them perfect for runners. They offer powerful and bass-forward sound, along with an adjustable and effective in-app EQ.

Who It's For

If you simply need earphones for your running sessions and don't require active noise cancellation, the JBL Endurance Peak 3 is a great option. They strike a perfect balance between price and performance.

PROS

• Powerful sound with pronounced bass

• Fully waterproof and dust-tight design

• Highly adjustable and effective in-app EQ

• Strong battery life

CONS

• Massive and hard-to-open charging case

• Annoying auto-off function

Urbanista Los Angeles

Energy-Efficient Choice

Why We Selected Them

The Urbanista Los Angeles headphones stand out with their innovative use of Powerfoyle material, enabling them to charge using various light sources, including indoor lighting. In addition to their eco-friendly features, they offer rich sound and competent active noise cancellation.

Who Should Buy Them

These headphones are the ideal choice for eco-conscious shoppers. However, even if you don't prioritize eco-friendly technology, the 80-hour battery life (recharged by ambient light) ensures extended listening sessions without worrying about wires cluttering your desk. They also come with a USB-C port and charging cable as backup options.

PROS

• Solar-powered charging capability

• Impressive audio performance with rich bass and crisp highs

• Quality noise cancellation for the price

• Stylish design

CONS

• No in-app EQ

• Noise cancellation slightly affects sound signature

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$219.99 on Amazon

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Technica ATH-M20xBT

Top Notch Sound Below $100

Why We Chose It

The Audio-Technica ATH-M20xBT headphones prioritize accuracy, while still managing to faithfully reproduce sub-bass—an extraordinary achievement. Although they may lack advanced Bluetooth codecs for Android users, if you primarily listen on an iOS device (or use the wired audio cable), they deliver exceptional sound quality for the price.

Who Should Consider It

If you desire transparency, precision, and deep bass from your headphones, we highly recommend these under $100. They don't come with many additional features or accessories, but the remarkably clear sound signature compensates for that. The versatility of the wired backup functionality is also a plus.

PROS

• Budget-friendly

• Superb accuracy, especially in the sub-bass range

• Comfortable fit

• Impressive battery life

CONS

• Limited features

• No AptX support

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.00 Amazon

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JBL Reflect Aero

Top Waterproof Earphones

Why We Picked It

The waterproof and dustproof JBL Reflect Aero earphones are rated IP68, making them ideal for workout sessions. While their active noise cancellation is only average considering the price, we are impressed by their companion app that offers EQ and ANC customization options.

Who It’s For

These earbuds are priced lower than the standard AirPods, but they are by no means a compromise. On the contrary, they are better suited for gym use and offer consistently good sound quality. However, if you own an Android phone, the absence of AptX support limits their appeal.

PROS

• Impressive audio performance with powerful lows and crisp highs

• Multi-band in-app EQ

• Supports hands-free Alexa and Google Assistant

• Completely waterproof and dustproof design

CONS

• Average noise cancellation

• Sculpted, bass-forward sound signature may not be suitable for everyone's taste

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.95 Amazon

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What Does Noise Cancellation Mean?

Bose QuietComfort 45

(Credit: Tim Gideon)

Headphones with active noise cancellation (ANC) utilize external microphones to capture and analyze ambient noise, which is then countered by generating an inverse waveform through internal circuitry. In the past, this technology was expensive and cumbersome, but with improved battery life and miniaturization, there are now more affordable options available. While the top-tier models remain costly, not everyone requires the absolute best performance. For additional choices, explore the finest noise-cancelling headphones and the greatest noise-cancelling true wireless earphones.

In conclusion, when it comes to finding the best wireless headphones for your needs, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're looking for top-notch noise cancellation, sleek design, or exceptional sound quality, the market has something for everyone. From the portable and stylish Marshall Major IV to the affordable yet impressive Sennheiser HD 350BT, there's a pair of headphones out there that will perfectly suit your preferences. And when navigating through the vast sea of choices, you can trust SoundGuys for reliable and trustworthy insights on the latest wireless headphone offerings. So, make your selection wisely and enjoy the ultimate listening experience on the go.