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Stereo headphones have been around since well before the first Sony Walkman, and that’s roughly how long we’ve had to put up with tangled wires for on-the-go music listening. Fortunately, wireless headphones now exist for all those times you don’t want to deal with dangling cables. And now that many phone makers have ditched the headphone jack, wireless headphones are increasingly more common than their wired counterparts. PCMag’s audio analysts have been independently writing about wireless headphones for nearly 20 years, so you can be sure that our coverage is both truthful and thorough. We’ve put scores of headphones through the same rigorous tests to deliver the list of our favorites below. Our current Editors’ Choice winners include the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) for seamless Apple device interoperability, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones for class-leading active noise cancellation (ANC), and the solar-powered Urbanista Los Angels for practically limitless playtime. You can find out more about each of our top selections by reading our in-depth reviews, and we include some buying advice below the list to help you sort through your many choices.
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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 Users
Why We Picked ItThe second-gen AirPods Pro deliver impressive noise cancellation, wiping out deep low rumble and dialing back complex higher-frequency sounds. Their Adaptive Audio mode also successfully tamps down any audio spikes from your surroundings. Otherwise, they sound excellent and we’re glad the case finally supports USB-C charging.Who It’s ForThese earphones should suit anyone who wants seamless integration with Apple devices. Pairing is as simple as opening the case, and the iOS settings menu has an AirPods section that allows you to test the in-ear fit, personalize the spatial audio experience, and adjust the on-ear controls. We’d love to see a customizable EQ, but these are still your best bet in Apple’s current audio lineup.
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 Earphones for Noise Cancellation
Why We Picked ItThe QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds offer the best noise cancellation you can get from earphones. They nearly make all deep, low-frequency rumble disappear and cut back highs extensively, too. Their audio drivers sound great, producing rich bass and sculpted (but balanced) highs. AptX Adaptive support makes them more attractive to Android users than previous iterations.Who It’s ForThese are for people who want the most effective noise-cancelling earphones. And, unlike with the AirPods Pro, you get an adjustable EQ in the companion app. That’s helpful for dialing down a bit of the sculpting, though plenty of listeners are sure to enjoy the default sound signature.
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 Headphones for Noise Cancellation
Why We Picked ItThe Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones deliver the best active noise cancellation you can get. They also sound quite good and live up to their name in the comfort department. AptX Adaptive support is a welcome addition for Android users, too.Who It’s ForIf you want the best noise-cancelling headphones on the market, you should begin and end your search with the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones. Want to know how they compare with flagship offerings from Apple and Sony? Check out our in-depth comparison of the three.
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 ItBose has a slight edge in noise cancellation, but Sony’s WF-1000XM5 earphones come very close. They also sound superb and offer top-notch mic quality. Rounding out the experience is a full-featured companion app with an adjustable EQ, support for the AAC, LC3, and LDAC codecs, and a wirelessly charging case. We’re also fans of their hybrid eartips, which improve passive noise isolation and low-end response.Who It’s ForAudiophiles who want earphones that can block out distractions should look no further than the Sony WF-1000XM5. The latest high-end models from Apple and Bose are competitive, but neither can match their hi-res streaming capabilities.
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 ItAlthough Bose takes a slight victory in active noise cancellation, Sony’s WH-1000XM5 headphones offer an edge in audio quality. Their sound signature is a bit more accurate and they support the hi-res-capable LDAC codec.Who It’s ForThese headphones cost a lot, but excellent audio performance, an adjustable EQ, and highly effective ANC are all points in their favor. Other premium options might have an advantage in other categories, but these offer the best overall experience.
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-Cancelling Earphones Under $100
Why We Picked ItThe Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC earphones offer the best combination of sound quality and active noise cancellation below $100. Anker’s companion app is another bright spot, with an intuitive interface, myriad ANC controls, and a customizable EQ. Who It’s ForIf your budget tops out at $100, these earphones are worth your attention. They cancel noise more effectively than similarly priced competitors and their battery life is above average, so they’re a great choice for commuters and travelers. They don’t sacrifice sound quality either and even support the high-end LDAC codec.
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
Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2
Best Premium Earbuds for Exercise
Why We Picked ItThe Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 earphones sport a fully durable IP68 rating, deliver invigorating sound, and offer top-notch ANC against low frequencies. Another major highlight is the charging case: It has an impressive IP54 rating and can seamlessly stream audio to the earbuds from any source with a 3.5mm or USB-C input. A full-featured companion app with customizable EQ and control options completes the premium experience.Who It’s ForIf you want earphones you can use in rough conditions without sacrificing audio or ANC quality, this Jabra pair is the way to go. It’s our top recommendation for runners and the fitness crowd.
PROS
Deep bass and detailed highs
Excellent noise cancellation against lows
App includes adjustable EQ and controls
Fully dustproof and waterproof
Water-resistant charging case can stream audio
CONS
Noise cancellation is sometimes inconsistent
App buries some features
SPECS
Name
Value
Type
In-Canal
Wireless
True Wireless
Connection Type
Bluetooth
Water/Sweat-Resistant
Active Noise Cancellation
Learn More
Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 Review
Urbanista Los Angeles
Best for Battery Life
Why We Picked ItThe innovative Urbanista Los Angeles headphones use a Powerfoyle material on their exterior to charge via light—not just sunlight, but even light bulbs. Additionally, they produce rich sound and offer competent active noise cancellation. They aren’t outstanding in either regard, but a competitive showing here is a huge step forward for eco-friendly tech.Who It’s ForThese headphones are a great choice if you want to shop in an eco-conscious way. But even if you don’t care about green tech, the 80-hour battery life (if you even manage to drain them more quickly than ambient light can recharge them) makes them ideal for extended listening sessions. Yes, they have a USB-C port and ship with a charging cable, but if you rely on the solar battery tech, you won’t ever have to clutter your desk with wires.
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
Apple AirPods Max
Best Headphones for iPhone Users
Why We Picked ItEverything about the AirPods Max is a bit over the top, from their size to their price. And yet their quality is undeniable. They’re visually stunning and fit right within Apple’s sleek design aesthetic. Additionally, they deliver an excellent listening experience and powerful active noise cancellation. Who It’s ForThese are best for Apple users who want wireless headphones that seamlessly integrate with their devices. There are some downsides—the price is high, the fit isn’t universally comfortable, and the ANC circuitry uses an aggressively adaptive approach. But the drivers still produce a crisp, detailed listening experience and enable head-tracking spatial audio.
PROS
Excellent audio performance with rich lows and crisp, detailed highs
High-quality active noise cancellation, especially for low-frequency rumble
Stunning, unique design
Adaptive EQ and Spatial audio
Hands-free Siri access
CONS
Expensive
Sound signature and Adaptive EQ/spatial audio aren’t for purists
No user-adjustable EQ
Button placement makes it easy to misfire when adjusting fit
Smart Case does little to protect the headphones
SPECS
Name
Value
Type
Circumaural (over-ear)
Wireless
True Wireless
Connection Type
Bluetooth
Water/Sweat-Resistant
Active Noise Cancellation
Learn More
Apple AirPods Max Review
Shure Aonic 50 Gen 2
Best for Wired Listening Mode
Why We Picked ItWe can safely say that the Bose and Sony flagship models lead the pack in terms of active noise cancellation, but the Shure Aonic 50 Gen 2 over-ear headphones are highly competitive in terms of audio quality. They support nearly every Bluetooth codec you might want (including AAC, AptX HD, and LDAC), as well as offer hi-res wired playback at up to 32-bit/384kHz via USB-C. We’re also fans of their elegant look and quality accessories.Who It’s ForFor serious listeners, these sophisticated headphones offer the best of the wireless and wired audio worlds in a comfortable design. And their ANC still comes in handy for some situations, even if it’s not top-tier.
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 Wireless Headphones for 2024
Should You Get Wireless Earphones or Headphones?Earphones (or in-ear headphones) offer a slightly different sound profile compared with conventional headphones. Generally, you get better sound from a full set of “cans” around your head than from buds you stick in your ears, but earphones now offer excellent sound quality. More importantly, they are much more appropriate for exercise because they are smaller and often at least moderately durable. Headphones, on the other hand, turn into a nasty mess if you start sweating. For our top exercise picks, check out the best true wireless earphones for running.
Sony WF-1000XM5 (Credit: Tim Gideon)
At this point, most wireless earphones don’t have a connecting wire like earlier iterations. Instead, you get two discrete earpieces and a charging case. This setup wasn’t always reliable, but you aren’t likely to have any connection issues now. All of the earphones on this list are true wireless earphones.If you aren’t primarily looking for a set of wireless earphones for the gym (be sure to check the IP rating for water and sweat resistance), you still have to choose between on-ear and over-ear models. On-ear headphones rest against your ears but don’t surround them, while over-ear headphones completely enclose them. The latter block the most outside noise and usually provide more powerful, richer sound, but on-ear models are less bulky and distracting to wear.And if you’re shopping for your little one, we also have a collection of the best wired and wireless headphones for kids.What’s Noise Cancellation?
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (Credit: Tim Gideon)
Headphones with ANC use outward-facing microphones to pick up and analyze noise, which their internal circuitry then cancels by generating an inverse wave. This was previously an expensive, cumbersome technology, but advances in battery life and miniaturization mean you have more affordable options than ever. The top-end models are still quite pricey, but not everyone needs the absolute best performance. For more options, check out the best noise-cancelling headphones and the best noise-cancelling true wireless earphones.Do You Need Apple’s H2 Chip? What About Bluetooth Codecs?If you’re an iPhone user, consider buying a model with Apple’s proprietary H2 (or older H1 or W1) chip. It makes Bluetooth pairing painless—there’s no need to open the Settings menu because your phone automatically prompts you to connect whenever the headphones are nearby. The chip also improves connection stability and increases the wireless range. Currently, only Apple and Beats (which Apple owns) sell headphones with this component.Everyone—iPhone and Android users—needs to pay attention to which Bluetooth codecs their headphones support. Codecs determine how your device compresses audio streams before sending them to your headphones (most Bluetooth implementations don’t currently support lossless audio streaming). You need to make sure that your headphones and phone support the same high-end codecs if you want the best listening experience. Our guide to Bluetooth codecs details everything you are likely to encounter, and our reviews note which ones each model supports.
Recommended by Our Editors
Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC (Credit: Tim Gideon)
How Much Should You Spend on Wireless Headphones?Although many entries in this roundup cost more than $100, you don’t need to spend a lot of money to get quality audio. If you’re shopping on a budget, head over to our roundup of the best headphones under $50 or under $100 for options that won’t break the bank.You’re bound to find something that fits well, sounds great, and—above all—doesn’t tie you up in knots. Once you pick the perfect pair, check out these five easy tips to extend the life of your headphones and the eight ways you’re using your headphones wrong. And if you want to share your tunes with others, look no further than our favorite wireless speakers.
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