Selecting the ultimate wireless headphone, which encompasses in-ear wireless headphones, often referred to as earbuds, can be a challenging task due to the abundance of exceptional models available. Nonetheless, a few models do manage to distinguish themselves from the rest. Notably, the recently launched Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones, Sony WH-1000XM5, and the AirPods Pro 2 have garnered attention, the latter now featuring USB-C charging. While these premium options tend to come with higher price tags, there are also several outstanding headphones that offer great value, and we’ve included a variety of budget-friendly choices in our recommendations.
With over 20 years of experience evaluating headphones and having personally tested each of the models on this list, I can vouch for their quality. For those seeking more specialized recommendations, we have additional curated lists covering the best wireless earbuds, top noise-canceling headphones, exceptional workout earbuds and headphones, and outstanding open wireless earbuds, among others. I’ll update this list as new top wireless headphones hit the market.
1. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Although the latest flagship model from Bose, the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones, may not present a substantial leap forward compared to the company’s prior Noise Cancelling 700 headphones, they do introduce a more sophisticated design and incorporate Bose’s novel Immersive Audio feature, resulting in certain sound quality improvements. These headphones offer exceptional sound performance, outstanding noise-cancellation capabilities, and excel in facilitating high-quality phone calls by effectively minimizing background noise. Consequently, they earn the distinction of being the top new noise-canceling headphones in 2023, positioning themselves as a strong contender against Sony’s highly acclaimed WH-1000XM5 and Apple’s AirPods Max.
Pros:
- Enhanced design
- Featherlight and exceptionally comfortable
- Superb audio quality and impressive noise-cancellation
- Outstanding call quality
- Immersive Audio mode delivers notable sound improvements
Cons:
- Higher price than the previous model
- No USB-C audio
- Immersive Audio mode hurts battery life
2. Sony WH-1000XM5
Introducing changes to a product that has garnered immense popularity can be a risky endeavor. This is precisely the scenario faced by Sony’s WH-1000XM5, which marks the fifth iteration of the 1000X series headphones. The journey began in 2016 with the release of the MDR-1000X Wireless, and with each successive generation, these headphones have enjoyed a growing fan base thanks to consistent enhancements. Throughout the years, Sony has made various adjustments to the design, but none as significant as the transformation witnessed in the WH-1000XM5.
Despite the notable increase in price, now standing at $349, the majority of these changes prove to be advantageous. Sony has made substantial improvements in voice-call performance, elevating the quality of phone conversations. Furthermore, the noise-cancellation capabilities have been enhanced, and the audio quality has been further refined.
Pros:
- Enhanced audio quality and improved noise cancellation
- Slightly heightened comfort
- Exceptional voice call clarity Comprehensive set of features
Cons:
- Elevated price compared to the previous model
- Bulky carrying case (headphones fold flat but not upward)
3. Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless
Sennheiser’s previous-generation Momentum Wireless headphones were always distinctive in appearance, blending a somewhat retro, somewhat modern style, with notable exposed metal on their headband. However, the latest iteration, the Momentum 4 Wireless, Sennheiser’s flagship noise-canceling headphones, takes a more subdued and conventional design approach, resembling some of its competitors.
The Momentum 4 Wireless outperforms the Momentum 3 Wireless in every aspect, with the most significant improvements seen in noise cancellation, voice call quality, and outstanding battery life, which can last up to 60 hours at moderate volume levels. Additionally, these headphones offer a transparency mode for ambient sound and the ability to create a personalized sound profile through the Smart Control app on both iOS and Android. This feature includes a built-in EQ, sound modes, and a new Sound Personalization function that evaluates the user’s listening preferences and adjusts the audio experience accordingly.
Equipped with 42mm drivers, Sennheiser claims that the Momentum 4 Wireless delivers “best-in-class” sound, though this claim is debatable. Their sound quality is on par with other models in the same price range, offering excellent audio with well-defined and punchy bass, a relatively spacious soundstage, and smooth treble that highlights finer details in well-recorded tracks. Listening to music with these headphones is a delightful experience.
Pros:
- Superb audio quality
- Enhanced noise cancellation and voice call performance
- Impressive battery life
- Noteworthy sound personalization features
Cons:
- Uninspiring design
- Noise cancellation falls short of Sony’s or Bose’s standards
4. Apple Airpods Pro 2
Apple has not only made the transition from Lightning to USB-C connectivity in its latest iPhone 15 models but has also extended this change to the AirPods Pro (second generation). The new AirPods Pro 2 with MagSafe (USB-C) closely resemble their Lightning-based predecessors, offering the same impressive sound quality, noise cancellation, and voice-call performance. However, they do come with a few minor upgrades, including improved dust resistance and a fresh acoustic design that enables Lossless Audio compatibility with the Vision Pro, Apple’s forthcoming wearable headset, scheduled for an early 2024 release at a price of $3,499.
It’s worth considering whether this new acoustic architecture might subtly alter the sound profile of the earbuds when used with current devices like the iPhone. Nevertheless, regardless of this potential effect, the AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) remain a highly recommendable choice for Apple users, despite their premium price tag.
Pros:
- AirPods Pro 2 deliver high-quality audio with well-defined bass, clear mids, and detailed treble, making them enjoyable for music and audio content.
- These earbuds offer effective noise cancellation, providing an immersive listening experience by reducing background noise.
- AirPods Pro 2 provide top-notch call quality, ensuring clear and distortion-free voice communication.
Cons:
- These earbuds come at a premium cost, making them relatively expensive compared to some competitors.
- The new acoustic architecture may introduce subtle sound profile changes when used with existing devices, though this impact is uncertain.
5. JBL Tour One M2
The JBL Tour One M2 is a feature-rich Bluetooth headset that excels in most aspects. Its sound quality is impressive right out of the box and can be further customized using JBL’s app’s EQ settings. The battery life, which is rated at 30 to 50 hours, is remarkable, and the headset recharges quickly.
Voice commands can be issued through the always-listening Alexa and Google Assistant features, and Apple users have the convenience of accessing Siri with a simple button press. The M2 supports dual-device connectivity, and its built-in microphones effectively minimize wind and background noise, ensuring clear phone conversations even while on the move. Additionally, it is water-resistant with an IPX5 rating, safeguarding against damage from rainy-day splashes.
Any drawbacks are minor: While the combination of touch-based and physical control buttons is appreciated, the touchpad can be a tad too sensitive. Furthermore, while the active noise cancellation (ANC) is decent, it doesn’t match the effectiveness of our preferred noise-cancelling headphones.
Pros:
- The JBL Tour One M2 offers excellent sound quality right out of the box, and its audio can be further enhanced through the use of JBL’s app and EQ settings.
- With a battery life rated between 30 to 50 hours, these headphones provide extended use on a single charge, making them suitable for long journeys and extended listening sessions.
- Users can access voice commands through the always-listening Alexa and Google Assistant features, while Apple users can activate Siri with a simple button press.
- The headphones support simultaneous connectivity with two devices, allowing for easy switching between devices without constant re-pairing.
Cons :
- The touchpad control can be overly sensitive, which may lead to accidental actions when handling the headphones.
- While the active noise cancellation (ANC) is good, it may not match the effectiveness of the best noise-cancelling headphones on the market
6. Soundcore Space One
For an exceptional pair of wireless headphones priced around $100, the Soundcore Space One is worth considering. While it may not deliver the same level of rich and full sound quality as our top pick, it still provides an enjoyable listening experience and can be customized to your preferences using the Soundcore app. These headphones are lightweight and comfortable for extended wearing, and they offer a comprehensive range of control options. Notably, the adjustable active noise cancellation competes favorably with models that are three times its price.
You can connect these headphones to two devices simultaneously, and they feature a hear-through mode, which can be activated with the press of a button or automatically when you start speaking. With ANC activated, the Space One boasts an impressive 40-hour battery life (55 hours without ANC), which means you may only need to recharge them once a week or even less frequently.
While the Space One incorporates three noise-reducing microphones, we observed that voices from callers may sound compressed and somewhat distant, particularly in comparison to more costly headphones like our top pick.
Pros:
- Priced at around $100, the Soundcore Space One offers excellent value for budget-conscious users.
- While not as rich as higher-end options, the sound quality is still pleasant, and it can be customized to personal preferences using the Soundcore app.
- These headphones are lightweight and comfortable for extended periods of use, making them suitable for long listening sessions.
- The Soundcore Space One provides a full set of control options for user convenience and ease of use.
Cons:
- Voice calls may sound compressed and somewhat distant to callers, especially when compared to pricier headphones with superior call quality.
7. Edifier Stax Spirit S3
If your primary goal is to discover wireless over-ear headphones that deliver exceptional sound quality, then the Edifier Stax Spirit S3 is an ideal choice. These headphones are among the finest-sounding options priced under $500 that we’ve ever assessed, even rivaling the quality of wired audiophile headphones featured in our guide.
This portable set utilizes planar-magnetic drivers, known for their ability to reproduce intricate details and robust bass tones. The S3 offers impressive sound quality in both wired and wireless modes, thanks in large part to the built-in headphone amplifier, which ensures consistent power delivery. Edifier provides two types of earpads, offering a choice between isolating pleather and breathable mesh for a comfortable listening experience, with sound quality remaining consistent regardless of the earpads used.
Pros:
- Outstanding Sound Quality: The Edifier Stax Spirit S3 is renowned for delivering exceptional sound quality, making it one of the top choices for wireless over-ear headphones under $500.
- Planar-Magnetic Drivers: The headphones utilize planar-magnetic drivers, which are capable of reproducing intricate details and powerful bass, enhancing the overall listening experience.
- Versatile Sound Performance: The S3 maintains its remarkable sound quality in both wired and wireless modes, thanks to the built-in headphone amplifier that ensures consistent power delivery.
Cons:
- Lack of Water Resistance: These headphones are not water-resistant, so caution is advised when using them in inclement weather, making them less suitable for outdoor activities.
- No Active Noise Cancellation: The Edifier Stax Spirit S3 does not feature active noise cancellation, which may impact noise reduction in noisy environments.
8. Final Audio UX3000
Final Audio’s wireless over-ear headphones with noise cancellation may not possess a particularly striking appearance or feel, but their impressive features, including aptX wireless, extended battery life, and active noise cancellation, more than compensate for it.
Throughout our evaluation, we thoroughly enjoyed the listening experience provided by the Final Audio UX3000 headphones. Their dynamic sound, exceptional detail retrieval, and musicality contribute to an enjoyable audio experience, regardless of your preferred music genre.
Final Audio’s wireless over-ear headphones with noise cancellation may not possess a particularly striking appearance or feel, but their impressive features, including aptX wireless, extended battery life, and active noise cancellation, more than compensate for it.
Throughout our evaluation, we thoroughly enjoyed the listening experience provided by the Final Audio UX3000 headphones. Their dynamic sound, exceptional detail retrieval, and musicality contribute to an enjoyable audio experience, regardless of your preferred music genre.
Pros:
- Impressive Sound Quality: The Final Audio UX3000 offers a remarkable listening experience, characterized by dynamic sound, exceptional detail retrieval, and musicality, catering to various music genres.
- Active Noise Cancellation: The active noise cancellation feature effectively reduces external distractions, enhancing the overall audio experience.
- Extended Battery Life: With up to 35 hours of battery life when ANC is turned off and 25 hours with ANC activated, these headphones provide long-lasting usage on a single charge.
Cons:
- Minimal Features: The UX3000 headphones lack accompanying apps and touch controls, which may limit user customization and convenience for some.
- Noise Cancellation Level: While the active noise cancellation is effective, it may not match the noise reduction capabilities of premium headphones from brands like Bose or Sony.
In summary, the Final Audio UX3000 headphones excel in sound quality, battery life, and affordability, but they may lack certain advanced features and offer noise cancellation that falls slightly short of top-tier competitors.