Photo credit: marshall.com
Ever had that moment where your old headphones give up the ghost in the middle of an epic playlist? Or maybe you’re working from home, and the neighbor’s lawnmower is doing its best impression of a rock concert? (Both happened to me on the same day.) That’s why I’m here to be your headphone sherpa, guiding you through the 2024 wilderness of wireless headphones to find the perfect pair for your everyday life.
I’ll explain the features that matter (in plain English, of course) and then give you our top recommendations for the best wireless headphones in each category. So, get ready to ditch those tangled wires and say hello to a world of crystal-clear sound.
Key Features to Consider: Your Headphone Checklist
Before we explore our top picks, let’s talk about the features you should be looking for:
- Sound Quality: This is the heart and soul of any headphones. Look for terms like “clear,” “balanced,” and “powerful bass.” Don’t worry if you don’t understand all the technical jargon; just focus on how the music makes you feel.
- Comfort: You’re going to be wearing these headphones for hours, so comfort is key. Consider the fit, the materials used, and whether they put too much pressure on your head.
- Battery Life: Nobody wants their tunes to die mid-workout or commute. Aim for headphones with at least 15-20 hours of battery life.
- Noise-Canceling (Optional): If you’re frequently in noisy environments (think airplanes, busy offices, or loud roommates), noise-canceling can be a lifesaver. It uses microphones to analyze and block out ambient noise, creating a peaceful audio oasis.
- Durability: Headphones can take a beating, especially if you’re always on the go. Look for models made with durable materials that can handle the wear and tear of daily life.
- Additional Features: Some headphones have extra bells and whistles like water resistance, app integration, or voice assistant support. Decide which features are important to you and prioritize those.
Budget-Friendly Wireless Headphones: Value Without Compromise
Anker Soundcore Life Q30
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These over-ear headphones punch well above their weight class, packing active noise cancellation to quiet the world around you, a customizable EQ via the Soundcore app (allowing you to personalize your sound), and an astonishing 40 hours of battery life on a single charge (perfect for long trips or heavy daily use).
While the sound quality might not satisfy the pickiest audiophiles, it’s well-balanced and enjoyable for casual listening, especially considering the price. The headphones also feature a transparency mode, letting you hear your surroundings without removing them, and come with a hard-shell travel case for added protection and portability. If you’re looking for a comfortable, feature-rich pair of headphones with decent noise cancellation at a fantastic price, the Life Q30s are a stellar choice.
Sony WH-CH720N
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Sony’s entry into the budget noise-canceling market impresses with its exceptionally lightweight and comfortable design, making it a great choice for all-day wear. Its Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE) upscales compressed music files, restoring some of the detail lost in compression, resulting in a surprisingly rich and clear sound for its price point.
The active noise cancellation (ANC) effectively reduces background noise, while the adjustable Ambient Sound mode allows you to let in some external sound when needed. The WH-CH720N boasts up to 35 hours of battery life with ANC enabled, and it supports fast charging, providing 60 minutes of playback with just a 3-minute charge. While it may lack some of the premium features of Sony’s higher-end models, the WH-CH720N offers excellent value, comfort, and performance for its price.
Mid-Range Wireless Headphones: Stepping Up Your Audio Game
Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless
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These stylish headphones marry sleek design with exceptional sound quality, boasting a warm, natural sound signature that’s enjoyable across a variety of genres. The Momentum 4 Wireless offers rich bass, crisp highs, and a wide soundstage that immerses you in your music.
With class-leading battery life (60 hours!) and adaptive noise cancellation that adjusts to your environment, they’re perfect for long commutes or flights. The intuitive touch controls and comfortable fit make them a joy to use, while the companion app offers customization options like EQ settings and sound presets. They also feature a transparency mode that allows you to hear your surroundings without removing the headphones, a “Sidetone” feature for natural-sounding calls, and they come with a convenient foldable design and a fabric carrying case for added protection and portability.
JBL Live 660NC
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If you love bass-heavy music, the JBL Live 660NC headphones are a must-try. Their powerful drivers deliver thumping lows that will get your head nodding, while the active noise cancellation lets you enjoy your music without distractions.
The comfortable fit and sleek design make them ideal for everyday use, and the decent battery life ensures your tunes keep playing. They also boast a foldable design for easy portability, a built-in microphone for hands-free calls, IPX4 water resistance for protection against sweat and light splashes, a multipoint connection for pairing with two devices simultaneously, and auto-pause playback when the headphones are removed. While a carrying case is not included in the standard packaging, it can be purchased separately or found in some retail bundles.
Premium Wireless Headphones: The Crème de la Crème of Audio
Sony WH-1000XM5
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These flagship headphones consistently rank among the best, and for good reason. Their industry-leading noise cancellation uses eight microphones and two processors to silence the world around you, whether you’re on a noisy commute or trying to focus in a bustling cafe. The sound quality is exceptional, with a wide soundstage, crystal-clear highs, punchy bass, and Sony’s DSEE Extreme technology that upscales compressed audio for richer detail.
They’re incredibly comfortable to wear for long periods, with plush earpads and a lightweight design. The WH-1000XM5 also boasts multipoint pairing (connect to two devices simultaneously), Speak-to-Chat (automatically pauses music when you start talking), and wear detection (pauses music when you take them off). While the price tag might be steep, the WH-1000XM5 offers an unparalleled listening experience that’s worth every penny for discerning audiophiles.
Bose QuietComfort 45
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These iconic headphones are known for their exceptional comfort and class-leading noise cancellation, featuring soft, plush ear cushions and a lightweight design that make them ideal for extended wear. Their signature TriPort acoustic architecture and Active EQ technology deliver balanced, lifelike audio with crisp highs, natural midrange, and deep, punchy bass.
The QuietComfort 45 offers two noise cancellation modes: Quiet Mode for maximum noise reduction and Aware Mode, which lets in some ambient sound for situational awareness. With a battery life of up to 24 hours, you can enjoy uninterrupted listening on long flights or commutes, and a quick 15-minute charge provides up to 3 hours of playback. They also come with a compact carrying case for easy storage and protection. While they might not have all the bells and whistles of some competitors, the QuietComfort 45 prioritizes what matters most: comfort, noise cancellation, and excellent sound quality.
Best Noise-Canceling Headphones: Silence is Golden
Sony WH-1000XM5
These flagship headphones reign supreme in noise cancellation. Its advanced ANC system, combined with exceptional sound quality and comfort, makes it the top choice for those seeking a truly immersive and distraction-free listening experience. Read our detailed review of the Sony WH-1000XM5 in the “Premium Wireless Headphones” section.
Bose QuietComfort 45
These iconic headphones have earned their reputation for exceptional noise cancellation and all-day comfort. If you prioritize a peaceful listening experience and a lightweight, comfortable fit, the QuietComfort 45 is a top contender. Read our detailed review of the QuietComfort 45 in the “Premium Wireless Headphones” section.
Apple AirPods Max
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If you’re an Apple fan with a taste for luxury, the AirPods Max might just be your audio soulmate. Apple’s signature elegance is on full display with these over-ear headphones, featuring a sleek, minimalist design crafted from premium materials like stainless steel and anodized aluminum.
But it’s not just about looks; the AirPods Max delivers a sonic experience that’s truly magical. Their custom-designed drivers produce high-fidelity audio with rich, detailed sound across the entire frequency spectrum. Active Noise Cancellation effectively blocks out unwanted noise, while Transparency mode lets you tune back into your surroundings with a tap. The AirPods Max also boasts Apple’s immersive Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, creating a theater-like listening experience for movies and TV shows. While they might be a splurge, the AirPods Max offers a blend of luxurious design, cutting-edge technology, and seamless integration with Apple devices that’s hard to beat.
Best Headphones for Working Out
Plantronics BackBeat Fit 6100
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These headphones are built like a tank, boasting an IPX5 rating, meaning they can withstand sweat, rain, and water jets from any direction. The unique, adjustable sport-fit headband ensures they stay securely in place, no matter how intense your workout gets.
While they don’t offer active noise cancellation, the over-ear design and snug fit provide a decent level of passive noise isolation to help you focus on your music. The 40mm drivers deliver a sound profile that’s tuned for workouts, with punchy bass to keep you motivated. You’ll get up to 24 hours of battery life on a single charge, and a quick 15-minute charge will give you an additional 6 hours of playtime.
With on-ear controls and customizable “My Tap” functionality through the BackBeat app, you can easily adjust your music and take calls without missing a beat.
Beats Solo3 Wireless
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If you prioritize a budget-friendly option with the classic Beats sound signature, these on-ear headphones are still worth considering. The Solo3 Wireless delivers punchy bass and exciting highs, perfect for getting your heart racing on the treadmill or lifting weights in the gym. They offer a secure, adjustable fit and an impressive 40 hours of battery life to keep up with even the longest workout sessions. Plus, their sweat-resistant design means you won’t have to worry about a little perspiration ruining your groove.
Best Wireless Headphones with Long Battery Life
HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless
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Boasting an incredible 300-hour battery life on a single charge, this headset lets you power through multiple gaming campaigns before even thinking about plugging in. But long battery life isn’t its only trick; the Cloud Alpha Wireless also packs a punch with its dual-chamber drivers, delivering crisp highs, rich mids, and thumping bass that will make explosions feel like they’re happening right in your living room.
While primarily designed for gaming, these headphones excel for music and movies, too, thanks to their comfortable memory foam earcups and immersive DTS Headphone: X spatial audio. The detachable noise-canceling microphone ensures crystal-clear communication with your teammates, while the durable aluminum frame promises to withstand the wear and tear of countless victories (and the occasional rage quit). If you’re looking for a wireless headset that can keep up with your gaming lifestyle, look no further than the HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless.
Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless
If you’re always on the go and hate being tethered to a charger, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless will be your new best friend. These headphones boast a staggering 60-hour battery life, ensuring your music keeps playing through even the longest journeys. But they offer more than just endurance; they also boast excellent sound quality, effective noise cancellation, and a comfortable fit. Read our detailed review of the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless in the “Mid-Range Headphones” section to learn more about their impressive features and performance.
Sony WH-CH720N
If you’re looking for a pair of headphones that can outlast your busiest days (and nights), the Sony WH-CH720N won’t disappoint. With up to 35 hours of battery life with noise canceling on and a staggering 50 hours without, these headphones are perfect for long flights, extended work sessions, or multi-day trips without a charger. But they offer more than just endurance; they also feature effective noise cancellation, Sony’s Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE) for improved audio quality, and a comfortable, lightweight design that won’t weigh you down. Read our detailed review of the Sony WH-CH720N in the “Budget-Friendly Headphones” section to learn more about their impressive features and value.
Most Stylish Headphones
Marshall Monitor II A.N.C.
Photo credit: marshall.com
If you’re a rocker at heart or just love a touch of vintage flair, the Marshall Monitor II A.N.C. will make your heart sing. Inspired by the iconic design of Marshall amplifiers, these over-ear headphones exude rock-and-roll swagger with their textured vinyl finish, brass accents, and signature script logo.
But don’t be fooled by their retro looks; these headphones are packed with modern technology. The active noise cancellation lets you tune out the world and focus on your music while the custom-tuned 40mm dynamic drivers deliver the big, bold Marshall sound you know and love. With up to 30 hours of wireless playtime with ANC activated (and 45 hours without), they’re ready to rock all day long. Plus, the comfortable ear cushions and collapsible design make them a great companion for travel. If you want to channel your inner rock star while enjoying top-notch sound, the Marshall Monitor II A.N.C. are the perfect headphones to complete your look.
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX
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If you believe that headphones should be as pleasing to the eye as they are to the ear, the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX will undoubtedly capture your heart. These over-ear headphones are a masterpiece of Scandinavian design, featuring a minimalist aesthetic with luxurious touches like lambskin leather ear cushions and a brushed aluminum frame.
But beauty isn’t just skin deep here; the Beoplay HX also delivers a sonic performance that’s worthy of its elegant appearance. The custom-designed 40mm drivers produce a rich, detailed sound with balanced tuning that’s perfect for all genres of music. Active noise cancellation blocks out distractions, while the transparency mode lets you tune back into your surroundings with a tap. With up to 35 hours of playtime with ANC on (and even more without), you can enjoy your music all day long in comfort and style. If you’re looking for a pair of headphones that look as good as they sound, the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX is a worthy investment.
Best Wireless Gaming Headsets: Level Up Your Game
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
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This headset, powered by high-fidelity drivers, lets you hear every footstep, every reload, and every whispered strategy with crystal clarity. It comes in two versions: one designed for Xbox and another for PlayStation and PC.
Its 360° Spatial Audio creates a soundstage so realistic you’ll feel like you’re right in the middle of the action. The retractable ClearCast Gen 2 microphone with AI-powered noise cancellation ensures your voice is heard loud and clear, even in the heat of battle. But the real game-changer is the dual audio system, allowing you to simultaneously mix game audio from your console or PC with chat audio from your phone or Discord. This means you can adjust the volume of each independently, so you never miss a critical callout while still enjoying the epic soundtrack. Plus, with its sleek, comfortable design and swappable batteries (ensuring continuous play as long as you have a charged battery ready), the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is built for marathon gaming sessions. Just be sure to choose the right version for your gaming platform to ensure compatibility!
Logitech G Pro X Wireless
Photo credit: logitech.com
When esports pros need a headset that can keep up with their lightning-fast reflexes, they turn to the Logitech G Pro X Wireless. This headset is a powerhouse of performance, boasting pro-grade audio quality (PRO-G 50mm drivers) with a focus on clear, accurate sound reproduction.
The detachable Blue Voice microphone is a marvel of engineering, featuring real-time voice filters that make your voice sound richer, cleaner, and more professional. But what really sets the G Pro X Wireless apart is its LIGHTSPEED wireless technology, which delivers a lightning-fast, reliable connection with virtually no lag. This means you’ll hear every audio cue in perfect sync with the action on screen, giving you a competitive edge. With its comfortable memory foam earpads and durable steel and aluminum construction, this headset is built to withstand the rigors of competitive gaming. And the 20+ hour battery life ensures you’re never caught with a dead headset mid-match.
HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless
When it comes to gaming headsets, battery life is king, and the HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless wears the crown. With a jaw-dropping 300 hours of playtime on a single charge, this headset is built for marathon gaming sessions. But it’s not just about endurance; the Cloud Alpha Wireless also delivers immersive sound quality and clear communication thanks to its dual-chamber drivers and detachable noise-canceling microphone. For more information on its impressive battery life, check out our detailed review of the HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless in the “Best Headphones with Long Battery Life” section.
If you’re more interested in earbuds, don’t miss our comprehensive guide to the ‘Best Wireless Earbuds 2024: Noise Cancelling, Budget, Calls & More‘. We’ve got options for every budget and lifestyle, so you’re sure to find the perfect pair to pop in your ears and rock out!
FAQs
Which wireless headphones have the best sound quality?
The Sony WH-1000XM5, Bose QuietComfort 45, Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless, and Apple AirPods Max. When choosing, consider your preferred sound profile and budget.
What are the best wireless headphones for working out?
Look for headphones that are sweat-resistant or waterproof, have a secure fit (such as the Beats Solo3 Wireless or Plantronics BackBeat Fit 6100), and offer decent passive noise isolation or active noise cancellation.
What is noise-canceling, and how does it work?
Noise-canceling technology uses microphones to detect ambient noise in your environment and then creates “anti-noise” sound waves to cancel it out. This results in a significant reduction in background noise, allowing you to focus on your music or calls.
Which wireless headphones have the best noise cancellation?
The Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort 45 are consistently ranked as the top performers in noise cancellation, creating a near-silent listening experience even in noisy environments. The Apple AirPods Max are also a strong contender.
How long do wireless headphones last on a single charge?
Most wireless headphones offer 15-30 hours of playtime, but some models, like the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless and HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless, can last significantly longer.
