Best wireless headphones

Next time you get on a flight, take a look around. I’m willing to bet that one of the most common types of headphones you’ll see are wireless headphones. We still have our doubts when it comes to Bluetooth headphones (especially Chris), but it’s hard to deny that Bluetooth has come a long way from when it was first announced, particularly for wireless earbuds. Not only do some of the best wireless headphones sound great, but they also come with a number of useful features.

What makes the Sony WH-1000XM5 the best noise canceling headphones?

For the past year, the Sony WH-1000XM4 occupied this spot, but now the WH-1000XM5 takes its place. It’s no surprise that it reigns as one of the best wireless headphones since it isn’t drastically different from its predecessor, with the same great app experience and high-tech features. The two headsets diverge when it comes to the fundamentals like sound quality, ANC, and microphone quality.

The newer model improves upon its predecessor in active noise canceling performance and passive isolation, doing an even better job at blocking out environmental noise. This makes it great for traveling or studying when you want to silence the world around you. With the XM5 headphones, you can enjoy a less treble-heavy sound compared to the XM4, which bodes well for those with eclectic music taste. Like its predecessor, the WH-1000XM5 is a bit heavy on the bass, but it won’t shake your skull.

The WH-1000XM5 also has great features like ambient sound control options, automatic ear detection, a fantastic microphone, and speak-to-chat, which automatically pauses your music when talking. It also has Bluetooth multipoint, making it easy to switch between two devices at a time. The WH-1000XM5 retains many well-loved features of its predecessor, making it an obvious pick on this list.

The Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless is a sensible choice

If your goal is a solid set of wireless headphones with good codec support, the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless might be the right choice. For one thing, Sennheiser gave the headphones SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, and aptX Adaptive codecs, which basically means it connects to anything and supplies high-quality audio. In addition, you also get a 3.5mm connection and USB-C listening. Plus, it supports Bluetooth multipoint.

That the headphones get quite close to our house frequency response curve means you needn’t do much equalizing, but you can use the Smart Control app if you want to alter it. The ANC onboard is not quite as strong as the Sony WH-1000XM5, although it should still help out on your commute.

Lastly, you don’t get any spatial audio as with the WH-1000XM5, but the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless does outperform nearly all headphones we’ve tested with its 56 hours and 21 minutes of battery life. For the price, the form and functionality of the MOMENTUM 4 Wireless deserve your consideration.

The best features go to the Bose QuietComfort Ultra

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones represent a significant advancement in the Bose ANC lineup, even compared to the Bose QuietComfort headset.  These headphones are ideal for discerning users who prioritize both performance and longevity in their audio devices. The lack of waterproofing might be a minor drawback, but their technical capabilities, including the leading active noise canceling (ANC) technology, more than compensate.

Notably, the QuietComfort Ultra sets itself apart with its Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity and support for aptX Lossless and Snapdragon Sound, ensuring superior wireless audio quality. These features, combined with a robust 27-hour battery life and efficient fast charging, make the headphones a top choice for both casual listeners and audiophiles. The straightforward control scheme, involving a multifunction button and a touch-sensitive volume strip, adds to the user-friendly experience.

Overall, the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are a compelling choice for those seeking the latest in audio technology and comfort. With their advanced noise canceling capabilities, lightweight design, and future-proof wireless features, they stand out in a crowded market of high-end headphones. While the price point is on the higher side, these headphones justify their cost with a blend of performance, durability, and cutting-edge technology, making them a worthy successor to the previous Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700.

The Sennheiser ACCENTUM Wireless is one of the best value buys

The Sennheiser ACCENTUM Wireless stands out in the bustling market of ANC headphones, offering a compelling balance of price and performance. At a fraction of the cost of high-end competitors, these headphones don’t skimp on audio quality, supporting aptX and aptX HD for superior sound transmission. They’re crafted for long listening sessions, boasting a lightweight design with comfortable padding.

Despite some trade-offs, like the absence of a TRS jack and LE Audio support, the ACCENTUM Wireless shines with its 46-hour battery life and USB-C audio option for lossless listening. The inclusion of a 5-band equalizer through the Sennheiser Smart Control app allows for personalized sound tuning.

In terms of ANC, while not industry-leading, the headphones efficiently reduce noise by up to 75%, courtesy of a well-designed cup and band. This makes them suitable for moderately noisy environments, ensuring a focus on what’s playing. The sound signature is pleasantly robust, especially after some EQ adjustments, and while the ANC might not match that of Bose or Sony, the Sennheiser ACCENTUM Wireless delivers where it counts.

The JLab JBuds Lux is the best bang for your buck

For under $100, the JLab JBuds Lux ANC punches well above their weight class. These affordable over-ear headphones provide decent active noise cancelation to muffle ambient noise during commutes. While the ANC can’t match premium models, it does a serviceable job of reducing lower-frequency sounds.

The sound quality is bass-boosted but remains balanced overall, with an app equalizer to tweak the sound signature. Call quality is good as well, with the microphones capably reducing reverb. Battery life is strong at over 44 hours per charge.

Build quality exceeds expectations for the price, with thick padding on the headband and ear cups. The plastic construction allows the headphones to fold up compactly for travel. While lacking extras like wireless charging or wear sensors, the fundamentals like USB-C audio, multipoint Bluetooth, and a companion app are covered.

Ultimately, the JLab JBuds Lux ANC focuses on nailing the basics at an unbeatable value, making them an excellent budget wireless headphone pick. You’d be hard-pressed to find better noise cancelation and sound quality in this ultra-affordable range.

Should you save up for the Apple AirPods Max?

The Apple AirPods Max costs $429 at Amazon, which means plenty of us would need to take out a small loan just to afford Apple’s noise canceling headphones. Since we’re not financial advisors here, it’s a bit unwise to recommend you purchase something so pricey when other products of similar quality go for much less. However, the AirPods Max performed better than any other headphones we’ve tested for active noise canceling, and it also sounds really good. The AirPods Max may be right up your alley if money isn’t an object and you’re happy to pay a premium for absolute convenience (assuming you’re deep into the Apple ecosystem).

Apple integrated its H1 chip into each AirPods Max ear cup, so it has plenty of processing power for things like Adaptive EQ, Transparency mode, active noise canceling, hands-free Siri access, automatic device switching, and more. These features require basic operating system requirements depending on your Apple hardware, so that’s something to keep an eye on.

Battery life is on par with the Sony WH-1000XM4 at around 20 hours, and you need a Lightning cable to charge the AirPods Max. It supports passthrough audio if you purchase a Lightning to USB-C cable, which may be useful for audiophiles.

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 is a well-rounded pick for most people

Audiophiles and audio enthusiasts know Audio-Technica: it’s a prolific premium audio company that’s proven itself time and time again in the professional industry. Audio-Technica hits it out of the park with its wireless headphone debut.

If you liked the wired ATH-M50x, you’ll love the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2. It may be cliché to say, but this headset takes everything we love about the wired version and features it in the wireless version. Save for the newly added playback controls, the headset is nearly identical to its wired brethren. For better or worse, this means it features the same synthetic padding, which remains a bit thin. That said, the headband is reinforced by its metal frame. Folding the ear cups in and up results in a compact, travel-friendly form, too.

Audio-Technica stays true to its roots, ensuring that audio quality takes precedence over headline-grabbing gimmicks. While it’s not a flashy set of headphones, it includes the necessities to keep pace with the best of them, including Bluetooth 5 and LDAC support.

Additionally, battery life is excellent; it lasts well over 64 hours on a single charge. If you’re looking for the best wireless headphones that can do it all, the ATH-M50xBT2 is all you need.

The Anker Soundcore Space Q45 is a great pair of headphones for less than $150

The Anker Soundcore Space Q45 stands out as an exceptional choice for those seeking high-quality noise cancelation without the hefty price tag. They retail at $150, but you can often find them on sale for around $100, and they compete admirably with more expensive models. While its sound profile might not be every audiophile’s dream, it serves the needs of the general listener. The microphone’s capability to effectively reject background noise makes it perfect for work calls. Moreover, the promise of a staggering 55-hour battery life with ANC, coupled with a quick 5-minute charge yielding 4 hours of playback, sets it apart from many rivals.

The adjustable, swiveling ear cups and foldable design make for easy storage, and the metal-reinforced headband provides a robust feel while adapting to different head sizes. To elevate the user experience, the Soundcore app, compatible with both iOS and Android, allows various customizations, from EQ presets to Bluetooth codec selections.

In short, for those prioritizing a balance between cost and performance, the Anker Soundcore Space Q45 emerges as a compelling pick in the mid-tier wireless headphone market. With its emphasis on comfort, robust ANC, and extensive battery life, it delivers exceptional value. Those in search of a different sonic profile might need to make some tweaks, but overall, the Q45 promises a solid listening experience.

The best wireless headphones: Notable mentions

• Anker Soundcore Life Q35 ($99 at Amazon): This headset might not have a premium design or be as well-built as some of the other options on this list, but it does offer a bunch of great features that allow it to hold its own against the big dogs for much less.
• Audio-Technica ATH-M20xBT ($79 at Amazon): This budget-friendly set of headphones is designed to go with you to and from the studio. It sports a fairly steep volume roll-off in the sub-bass, but otherwise, it should please all but the bass heads.
• Beyerdynamic Amiron Wireless ($599 at Amazon): If you want to enjoy your music without being bothered by the sounds of the people you’re living with, these studio-style cans are for you. The Amiron Wireless supports AAC, aptX, and aptX HD.
• Bose QuietComfort 45 ($279 at Amazon): If you want the best active noise canceling and comfort around, look no further. This one builds upon the QC 35 II with improved ANC.
• Edifier Stax Spirit S3 ($209 at Amazon): These headphones stand out for having electrostatic drivers rather than the conventional dynamic drivers found on the vast majority of wireless headphones. Oh yeah, they also sound great.
• Focal Bathys ($699 at Amazon): Look, Apple started it. The prices of wireless headphones have been increasing. At least with the Focal Bathys, you’re getting a superb-sounding pair of headphones with ANC, but that doesn’t come cheaply.
• Jabra Elite 45h ($99 at Amazon): If you want affordable, on-ear headphones with an insane battery life, the Elite 45h is for you. The portable design and two-year warranty make this headset great for taking anywhere, and its battery lasts 54 hours on a single charge, so it’s an excellent adventure companion.
• Jabra Evolve2 85 ($372 at Amazon): For the individual who demands a set of headphones capable of handling professional calls, PC gaming, noise canceling, and commuting, this one has both a removable boom mic and built-in mic to suit your needs. Plus, 15 minutes of charge equals a full workday’s battery.
• JBL Live 660NC ($149 at Amazon): Striking a reasonable balance between form, function, and cost, these noise canceling headphones do a good job of quieting noise, working as expected, and throwing in a bit of extra bass.
• Marshall Major IV ($116 at Amazon): If you’ve worn a lot of on-ear headphones, you know that they can feel uncomfortable pretty quickly. However, the Marshall Major IV is a notable exception, with memory foam ear pads and a lightweight build with a foldable design.
• Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 ($249.99 at Amazon): Microsoft’s noise canceling headphones sound great and look even better. These modern cans can go anywhere and have the best Bluetooth multipoint functionality around. If you want something that can keep pace with your workflow, get the Surface Headphones 2.
• Monoprice BT-600ANC ($84.99 at Amazon): If you want to keep a pretty low budget and get premium features like very good ANC, aptX HD, and solid battery life, you’ll like Monoprice’s headset. It isn’t perfect, though, as the sound quality favors bass and treble much more than most people would like.
• Sennheiser HD 350BT ($86 at Amazon): This pair of over-ear headphones sounds excellent and gives more expensive headsets a run for their money, at least when it comes to audio quality. You get a host of Bluetooth codec support: SBC, AAC, aptX, and aptX Low Latency are all available.
• Shure AONIC 50 ($298 at Amazon): For some pretty good noise cancelation and a premium build, pony up for the AONIC 50. These headphones are extremely comfortable to wear (yes, even with glasses), and they support all the high-quality Bluetooth codecs you could ever want.
• Sony WH-XB910N ($148 at Amazon): If you want a bass-heavy headset with very good ANC and plenty of software features, including 360 Reality Audio, this is a good pick.
• Sony WH-1000XM4 ($278 at Amazon): This is one of the best active noise canceling headphones available, even though the newer Sony WH-1000XM5 outperforms it. If you’re looking to save some cash, though, this is generally cheaper than the newer model.

What you should know about the best wireless headphones

In the early days of Bluetooth, stable connectivity was an issue. Fortunately, it rarely crops up these days due to the incremental improvements over the generations of Bluetooth. Now, the main concerns you’ll encounter with wireless headphones are whether they have active noise canceling (ANC) or not, the Bluetooth codec selection (see below), and battery life. All else consists of added luxuries, which doesn’t mean you shouldn’t care, but if there’s a specific feature you want, it might not be available on all headphones.

Starting with a good-sounding set of cans is usually a must, regardless of whether you look at wired or wireless headphones. Otherwise, unique to Bluetooth is the inclusion of companion apps on the go with your phone to adjust EQ, ANC ambient modes, touch controls, spatial audio, and more.

What is active noise canceling, and how does it work?

You can dive deeper if you’re really curious to learn the science behind active noise canceling, but if you don’t feel like dusting off your old textbook and want the TL;DR version, here it is.

Tiny microphones built into the headphones pick up what’s going on around you and then play the opposite sound wave into your ear along with your music. Because the sound wave produced by the headphones is basically the exact opposite of the one that’s outside of the headphones, it cancels out. Leaving you with just the sound of your blissful music. See? That wasn’t so bad. Science can be cool.

How do Bluetooth codecs work?

So you think you’re ready to understand what makes LDAC or aptX HD good? Get ready; There’s a ton of technical jargon and numbers we’re about to go over, but we’ll try and keep it relatively short.

LDAC is supposed to be better because it can carry more audible information than the standard SBC codec, but our testing revealed that LDAC isn’t completely able to replace a wire. Luckily any performance issues are increasingly hard to hear as we age because, sorry to break it to you, but our ears aren’t that great when we’re old.

Even if your phone doesn’t currently support it, you should still get headphones that support these codecs anyway. Android 8.0 brings support for these wireless standards to lots of phones in the near future, and assuming your headphones last longer than your smartphone does: your headphones will only sound better as the tech in your phone catches up.

How we choose the best wireless headphones

Choosing which product is best changes depending on what the category is. If you’re searching for the best headphones, we might focus more of our efforts on sound quality instead of cool extra features. On the flip side, if you’re looking for the best waterproof speakers, chances are we’re going to prioritize a strong, durable build over something like sound quality.

For this particular list, there were a few things that took priority. First was the Bluetooth connection. In order to be in the running for the best wireless headphones, a strong connection was a must. After that came sound quality. At the end of the day, these are still headphones, and you’re going to be using them to listen to music.

Additionally, we took user feedback on battery life into account when weeding out products from our list. When we were writing our list of the best Bluetooth earbuds, our readers made it very clear that battery life was the most important quality to assess after sound quality and comfort.

Bluetooth by itself has a bad rep when it comes to sound quality, but it’s come a long way over the years, so anything on this list had to, at the very least, sound good. Lastly, some of our decisions were made based on internal objective testing of the best wireless headphones with special software and microphones.

Why you should trust SoundGuys

Each writer at SoundGuys has accumulated years of experience reporting on the consumer audio market, and our staff adheres to a strict ethics policy. We don’t use sponsored content on the website at a time when doing so is the norm. SoundGuys’ survival depends almost exclusively on readers enjoying their purchases. We pride ourselves on transparently outlining objective facts while accounting for the subjective experience to contextualize an audio product’s performance. When we do misspeak, we correct and own up to it.

Frequently asked questions about the best wireless headphones