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The Best Headphone Deals This Week*
*Deals are selected by our commerce team
When people find out I’ve written thousands of audio reviews for PCMag, the first thing they usually want to know is which headphones are the best. But, to me, that’s like asking what type of music is best. Sure, we all have favorites, but the category is too broad to break down so simply. The real question is, what are the right headphones for you? And to answer this, you have to consider your sound preferences, desire for extra features, and, of course, budget.With that in mind, we’ve gathered the absolute best headphones and earphones we’ve tested here, for a range of users and budgets. Read on for our top picks, followed by everything you need to know to find the perfect pair.
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Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) With MagSafe Charging Case (USB‑C)
Best Earphones for iPhone
Why We Picked ItApple’s refined second-generation AirPods Pro join the true wireless noise-cancelling elite. Only Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds and Sony’s WF-1000XM5 earphones surpass them, and even then only just. Beyond this, they offer a rich audio experience, an innovative Adaptive Audio (transparency) mode, and excellent compatibility with Apple devices. The case now uses a more future-proof USB-C port for charging, too.Who It’s ForFirst and foremost, the AirPods Pro are the best earphones for brand-loyal Apple users. No third-party competitor works as seamlessly across iPhones, iPads, and Macs. To see how they compare with the best from Bose and Sony, check out our in-depth comparison.
PROS
Rich, well-balanced audio performance
Excellent active noise cancellation
Conversation Aware feature adjusts your music volume when you speak
Charging case has a built-in speaker, USB-C port
Seamless integration with Apple devices
CONS
No hi-res codec support
EQ presets aren’t adjustable
SPECS
Name
Value
Type
In-Canal
Wireless
True Wireless
Connection Type
Bluetooth
Water/Sweat-Resistant
Active Noise Cancellation
Learn More
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) With MagSafe Charging Case (USB‑C) Review
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
Best Noise-Cancelling Earphones
Why We Picked ItBose’s QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are at the top of the active noise cancellation class. They almost eliminate deep lows entirely, and dial back mids and highs better than any other earphones we’ve tested. Additionally, they deliver an articulate, bass-forward sound that should please most listeners. AptX Adaptive support makes them more suitable for Android users than ever, too.Who It’s ForIf active noise cancellation in a true wireless design is your primary consideration, these Bose earbuds are unbeatable. Just keep in mind that the second-gen AirPods Pro make more sense for iPhone users.
PROS
Best-in-class noise cancellation
Crisp, full-bodied audio
Active Aware feature blends noise cancellation and transparency modes
Spatial audio support with head tracking
Good Bluetooth codec support
CONS
Case doesn’t support wireless charging
No multipoint connectivity
SPECS
Name
Value
Type
In-Canal
Wireless
True Wireless
Connection Type
Bluetooth
Water/Sweat-Resistant
Active Noise Cancellation
Learn More
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Review
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Why We Picked ItThe competition might be slowly catching up, but every new iteration in the Bose lineup, including the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones, manages to leap ahead of the crowd. We’re big fans of this model’s crisp, bass-forward sound, highly comfortable design, and AptX Adaptive support.Who It’s ForThese are for people who want the best noise cancellation you can get from headphones. They’re also comfortable to wear for long flights or other travel excursions since they feature plush vegan leather, and they pack away neatly into a suitcase or bag for storage. Curious how they stack up with the best from Apple and Sony? Read our detailed comparison.
PROS
Class-leading active noise cancellation
Crisp audio with rich bass
Adjustable EQ
Immersive audio modes with spatial effects
CONS
Expensive
Adaptive noise cancellation might cause ear pressure
SPECS
Name
Value
Type
Circumaural (over-ear)
Wireless
True Wireless
Connection Type
Bluetooth, Stereo 3.5mm
Water/Sweat-Resistant
Active Noise Cancellation
Learn More
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Review
Sony WF-1000XM5
Best Earphones for Audiophiles
Why We Picked ItSony’s WF-1000XM5 earbuds sound excellent and cancel distracting noise just as well as top-tier competitors from Apple and Bose. Other highlights include a high-quality mic array, premium hybrid eartips that improve noise isolation, and a comprehensive companion app with an adjustable EQ. Support for the AAC, LC3, and LDAC codecs also makes them a versatile choice for cross-platform use.Who It’s ForIf you don’t want to compromise on sound quality or noise cancellation performance, these Sony earphones sit at the top of the premium segment. Just be prepared to spend quite a bit on them.
PROS
Rich bass response and crisp, detailed highs
Adjustable in-app EQ
Excellent noise cancellation
Top-tier mic clarity
Case supports wireless charging
Hands-free Alexa and Google Assistant
CONS
Expensive
Some bloat in companion app
SPECS
Name
Value
Type
In-Canal
Wireless
True Wireless
Connection Type
Bluetooth
Water/Sweat-Resistant
Active Noise Cancellation
Learn More
Sony WF-1000XM5 Review
Sony WH-1000XM5
Best Headphones for Audiophiles
Why We Picked ItSony’s WH-1000XM5 headphones keep the lineup’s streak of excellence alive. They offer top-notch noise cancellation, a sophisticated look, a comfy fit, and among the best audio quality in the wireless realm. The capacitive touch panels on the outside of each ear cup work intuitively, as well.Who It’s ForAndroid users who want to take advantage of the hi-res-capable LDAC codec should put this Sony pair at the top of their list. They don’t cancel distracting noise quite as effectively as the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones, but that’s a fair compromise if you care most about sound quality.
PROS
Excellent audio performance with robust bass depth and crisp highs
Top-notch active noise cancellation
Intuitive on-ear controls
App offers an adjustable EQ and other customization settings
Comfortable, stylish design
SPECS
Name
Value
Type
Circumaural (over-ear)
Wireless
True Wireless
Connection Type
Bluetooth, Stereo 3.5mm
Water/Sweat-Resistant
Active Noise Cancellation
Learn More
Sony WH-1000XM5 Review
Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC
Best Noise Cancellation Under $100
Why We Picked ItAnker’s Soundcore Liberty 4 NC earphones prove that you don’t need to pay several hundred dollars for a quality experience. We’re particularly fond of their detailed sound presentation, commendable noise cancellation, and secure fit. The companion app is another strong point because of its adjustable EQ, as is the LDAC support for Android users.Who It’s ForIf you’re on a budget but don’t want to settle for subpar audio or noise cancellation, these Anker earphones pack a lot of features despite their sub-$100 price.
PROS
Potent bass depth with bright highs
Commendable noise cancellation for the price
LDAC support for Android users
Capable companion app includes EQ
CONS
Default sound signature has noticeable sculpting
Average water-resistance rating
SPECS
Name
Value
Type
In-Canal
Wireless
True Wireless
Connection Type
Bluetooth
Water/Sweat-Resistant
Active Noise Cancellation
Learn More
Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC Review
Urbanista Los Angeles
Best for Battery Life
Why We Picked ItThe Urbanista Los Angeles headphones aren’t quite competitive with class leaders in the audio or active noise cancellation departments, but they stand out for their ability to recharge via any light source. They represent a huge step forward for sustainability and we hope more products integrate this charging technology going forward.Who It’s ForCharging your headphones doesn’t significantly increase your carbon footprint, but these headphones can still help you make a small impact. And the convenience of not needing to ever recharge your headphones (if you expose them to light every other day or so) should surely appeal to people who aren’t always near an outlet.
PROS
Solar-powered charging
Impressive audio performance with rich, deep bass and crisp highs
Quality noise cancellation for the price
Stylish design
CONS
No in-app EQ
Noise cancellation slightly impacts sound signature
SPECS
Name
Value
Type
Circumaural (over-ear)
Wireless
True Wireless
Connection Type
Bluetooth
Water/Sweat-Resistant
Active Noise Cancellation
Learn More
Urbanista Los Angeles Review
JBL Reflect Aero
Best for Exercise
Why We Picked ItIn a segment that seems content with underwhelming IPX4 ratings, the JBL Reflect Aero noise-cancelling earphones impress with a top-notch IP68 rating, meaning they are fully dustproof and waterproof. They also offer a powerful sound signature and a quality companion app with a customizable EQ.Who It’s ForIf you want to listen to music on the beach or at the gym, the Reflect Aero earphones are up to the challenge. Feel free to get them dirty and then rinse them off as you see fit.
PROS
Powerful audio performance with deep lows and bright highs
Multi-band in-app EQ
Supports hands-free Alexa and Google Assistant
Fully waterproof and dustproof design
CONS
Average noise cancellation
Sculpted, bass-forward sound signature won’t appeal to everyone
SPECS
Name
Value
Type
In-Canal
Wireless
True Wireless
Connection Type
Bluetooth
Water/Sweat-Resistant
Active Noise Cancellation
Learn More
JBL Reflect Aero Review
Jabra Elite 10
Best Noise Cancellation for Exercise
Why We Picked ItJabra’s Elite 10 earbuds sport a durable IP57 rating and are almost on par with class-leading options from Apple, Bose, and Sony in the noise cancellation department. They also produce punchy, balanced audio, pair with a companion app that gives you lots of control over the sound signature, and come with a wirelessly charging case.Who It’s ForThe Jabra Elite 10 earphones are pricey, but they are our top premium pick for exercise thanks to their above-average dust and water resistance, compelling sound, and excellent active noise cancellation.
PROS
Powerful bass and bright highs
Competitive noise cancellation
Support for Dolby Atmos with head tracking, adjustable EQ
High-quality build
Case supports wireless charging
CONS
Easy to accidentally activate on-ear buttons
Slight masking hiss in noise cancellation mode
SPECS
Name
Value
Type
In-Canal
Wireless
True Wireless
Connection Type
Bluetooth
Water/Sweat-Resistant
Active Noise Cancellation
Learn More
Jabra Elite 10 Review
Shure Aonic 50 Gen 2
Best for Quality Wired or Wireless Playback
Why We Picked ItThe Shure Aonic 50 Gen 2 headphones give you the best of both the wireless and wired audio worlds. They support the quality AAC and LDAC codecs for Bluetooth listening, as well as hi-res wired playback at up to 32-bit/384kHz. Moreover, the headphones offer up to 45 hours of playback time (more than double that of their predecessors) and a comprehensive in-app EQ with a low-shelf band, two midrange parametric bands, and a high-shelf band. As a bonus, you also get a hard-shell zip-up case in the box.Who It’s ForIf you have the budget, the Shure Aonic 50 Gen 2 headphones are among your top choices for pure sound quality thanks to their excellent wireless and wired audio playback capabilities. They look quite classy overall and feel comfortable, too.
PROS
Accurate sound with rich lows and detailed highs
Excellent Bluetooth codec support
Optional wired playback
Top-notch EQ
Better battery life than predecessors
CONS
Noise cancellation is merely decent
Convoluted controls
SPECS
Name
Value
Type
Circumaural (over-ear)
Wireless
True Wireless
Connection Type
Bluetooth, USB-C, Stereo 2.5mm
Water/Sweat-Resistant
Active Noise Cancellation
Learn More
Shure Aonic 50 Gen 2 Review
Buying Guide: The Best Headphones for 2024
Should You Pick Earphones or Headphones?Earbuds do not seal off the ear canal and typically offer the worst audio performance of the bunch. Earphones do seal off the ear canal and therefore offer better bass response, a more balanced stereo mix, and a more secure fit.On-ear headphones (which are also called supra-aural headphones) typically have smaller earcups that rest directly on your ears. Over-ear headphones (or circumaural headphones) have larger ear cups that rest around your ears. Over-ear headphones typically provide a more immersive experience than on-ear headphones, but this isn’t a rule—plenty of on-ear models sound amazing, and can even offer a little bit of passive noise isolation with the use of well-cushioned earpads. The main reasons to consider one over the other are comfort (this varies from person to person) and portability (on-ear models are often smaller and more travel-friendly).Are Wired or Wireless Headphones Better?Ever since Apple eliminated the headphone jack on the iPhone, wired headphones and earphones have faded from the forefront of this category in favor of Bluetooth models that require no cable at all. And true wireless headphones don’t even have a wire connecting the two earpieces.Audiophiles probably still prefer a cable, particularly for home listening (small cable adapters are available for Android and iOS devices with no headphone jack). If you prefer wired headphones, there are still lots of options available, but it’s also worth noting that plenty of wireless headphones come with a cable that lets you use them in a passive mode. That use case doesn’t drain the battery and gives you the best of both worlds.The sonic advantage of wired headphones is still quite significant, even if Bluetooth audio has improved dramatically in recent years. No matter how much better Bluetooth has gotten, it is still based on a lossy codec stream, making it inherently inferior to a wired audio connection. If sonics are important to you and you want to go wireless, make sure your headphones have the right high-end Bluetooth codecs that work with your phone, like LDAC and AAC, and don’t simply use the lower-quality SBC codec. Our guide to Bluetooth codecs explains everything you need to know.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (Credit: Tim Gideon)
What Are the Different Types of Headphone Drivers?Headphones most typically have dynamic drivers, whereas earphones might have dynamic drivers or balanced armature drivers. Especially in headphones, dynamic drivers are the most common because a larger dynamic driver—which the ear enclosure for a pair of headphones can accommodate—can get louder and produce more bass depth than alternatives. In earphones, the dynamic drivers have to be much smaller; this can often affect bass response.Many manufacturers, especially those in the business of making custom-molded in-ear monitors for musicians and engineers, turn to balanced armature drivers instead. Balanced armatures have the advantage of being tiny, which allows the earpieces to be smaller. Or, in the case of the aforementioned custom in-ear monitors, the earpieces can be quite large—freeing up room internally for several balanced armatures per ear, with each driver handling a specific frequency range. Generally speaking, it’s possible to get excellent audio—or poor audio—from both dynamic and balanced armature drivers, although the two styles have dedicated fan bases.In both headphones and earphones, the planar magnetic driver continues to gain ground slowly. Headphones with these drivers are typically (much) more expensive. But the advantage of planar magnetic drivers is that they, ostensibly, produce a more precise sound because of the flat, larger-than-a-dynamic-driver film that vibrates between two magnets to create sound.Electrostatic speakers and headphones are similar to planar magnetic models in that they use a large, thin surface area to deliver the audio. But we see far fewer electrostatic headphones than any other type—they are typically through-the-roof expensive and best for home use.Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) tech is also starting to appear in the form of silicon-based, solid-state drivers. These can produce faster transients and are very precise. Additionally, manufacturers can ensure a more consistent driver-to-driver build since they don’t rely on multiple moving parts.What Is Active Noise Cancellation?Noise cancellation used to be one of the most expensive features you could find in headphones, but it’s now mainstream in both the headphone and earphone realms. Not only that, but the shift from wired to wireless headphones in terms of popularity has meant that most of the active noise cancellation (ANC) headphones we see are now wireless.That’s excellent for convenience, but never assume that all ANC is the same. Bose still leads this category, though plenty of other manufacturers like Apple and Sony also offer top-notch options. See how we test noise cancellation to understand how it works.When ANC goes wrong, there are three main ways to tell. One, it’s just not very effective—it doesn’t tamp down low-frequency rumble as it should, or the overall reduction in surrounding noise isn’t profound enough to make it compelling. Two, the ANC circuitry creates a faint hiss—not necessarily unpleasant, but certainly audible (similar to white noise or tape hiss). This is often to mask the fact that the ANC circuitry can’t effectively remove some higher-frequency sounds. Third, lower-quality, wireless headphones often have ANC modes that affect the sound signature.
AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) (Credit: Tim Gideon)
When we describe headphones with excellent noise cancellation, it’s more or less the opposite. They squash the low frequencies effectively, tamp down surrounding chatter and common environmental noises, and don’t produce much of a high-frequency hiss (if any). The sound signature also shouldn’t sound wildly different when this mode is active. Beyond that, a growing number of manufacturers, like Bose, offer apps that let you adjust the intensity of the noise cancellation mode.An increasing number of noise-cancelling headphones now include mics that power ambient listening modes. The point is to allow you to hear your surroundings as if you didn’t have your headphones on, so you can talk to others without removing them. It has become popular enough that plenty of non-ANC models now have this feature, too. Apple’s Adaptive Audio mode is one of the best implementations. That said, open-style earbuds are still much better at letting you hear your music and environment simultaneously.For more, see the best noise-cancelling true wireless earbuds and the best headphones for your home office.
4 ways you’re using your headphones totally wrong — Clarification Please
What Are the Best Headphones for Exercise?Aside from sometimes offering ambient mics for hearing your surroundings, exercise-focused headphones and earphones typically offer water-resistant builds and extra accessories for a secure fit.The most important feature of any exercise-focused headphones remains the IP rating. IP stands for ingress protection, and you often see ratings such as IPX7 or IP65. The first number represents protection against solids like dust (X acts as a placeholder, usually because the manufacturer didn’t officially test against dust or solids), while the second number describes protection against fluids like water and sweat. For more, see our guide to IP ratings.As mentioned, another consideration is in-ear fit. We all have different ears, and some earphones fit better than others. If you’ve had trouble getting in-ears to stay in place in the past, consider a pair that comes with multiple eartips or earfins that sit against the ear to help aid stability. It’s also worth considering foam eartips (which sometimes ship with earphones, but are less common than silicone) because they expand in the canal to create a stronger seal, much like earplugs. They also often have the benefit of increasing the bass response.For more, see our picks for the best true wireless earbuds for running.Do Headphones Work With Voice Assistants?Most wireless headphones now include a button or action that summons your phone’s built-in voice assistant. But some are always listening, like smart speakers. Of course, you don’t have to use either option.How Much Should You Spend on Headphones?Quality and performance can certainly cost money, though that isn’t always the case and they aren’t the only factors that dictate the price of headphones. Currently, certain technologies—active noise cancellation and spatial audio are the two most obvious examples—tend to drive up the price. That doesn’t mean you can’t find affordable true wireless earphones, but the higher-quality options tend to kick in around $150, while most excellent noise-cancelling headphones start around $300. Iconic branding—think Apple, Beats, and Bose, to name a few—also impact pricing.In short, you can pay as little as $50 for good earphones or headphones and several hundred dollars for audiophile models. Generally speaking, most quality options fall between $100 and $400, but lenty of strong in-ear, over-ear, and on-ear models are available in the $100 to $200 bracket.Once you find the pair that’s right for you, make sure to take good care of them with our five easy tips to extend the life of your headphones. We also have an article on the eight ways you’re using your headphones wrong.
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