Headphones for Music, Gaming, and Calls – Ultimate 2025 Buying Guide

Explore the top headphones for music, gaming, and calls with expert reviews and detailed insights on noise cancellation, comfort, sound quality, and features.

Introduction: A Decade of Headphone Testing

I've been testing headphones for over 10 years—from over-ear models to noise-canceling ones, sport-friendly earbuds, and open-back designs. This guide compiles the absolute best across all categories, including the latest releases like the Sony WH-1000XM6 and Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S3, all personally tested or reviewed by me.

What Are the Best Headphones Overall?

With so many excellent options, picking a single best model is tough. As of May 2025, the Sony WH-1000XM6 holds the CNET Editor’s Choice for top wireless noise-canceling headphones, making it our current best pick. For those prioritizing wired sound quality, consider the standout Sony MDR-M1 or Sennheiser HD 505 from our wired audiophile headphones list.

Top Headphones of 2025: Detailed Reviews

Best Noise-Canceling Headphones

Sony WH-1000XM6

Pros:

• Refined design with a more comfortable fit
• Enhanced noise cancellation and sound quality
• New QN3 chip is 7x more powerful than the previous QN1
• Superb voice call performance with multiple microphones
• Improved transparency mode
• Spatial sound with head tracking

Cons:

• Costs about $65 more than the previous model
• No USB-C audio output
• Spatial sound access can be confusing

Sony’s WH-1000XM6 is a significant upgrade over the XM5, fixing minor design flaws and boosting performance, arguably edging out competitors to lead the class.

Why Buy: Ideal for travelers, remote workers, and commuters needing top-notch audio, noise cancellation, and call quality in a comfortable wireless headphone.

Why Not Buy: If budget is tight or you already own XM5, waiting might be wiser since the improvements, though real, aren't drastic enough to rush an upgrade.

Specs:

• Battery Life: Up to 30 hours (ANC on)
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Multipoint Bluetooth: Yes
• Type: Over-ear wireless
• Waterproof: No

Best Bose Noise-Canceling Headphones

Bose QuietComfort Ultra

Pros:

• Lightweight, foldable design with dual folding hinges
• Immersive Audio with head-tracking expands soundstage
• Industry-leading noise cancellation
• Excellent voice call clarity with minimal background noise
• Intuitive mix of physical buttons and touch controls

Cons:

• Expensive
• No USB-C audio jack
• Immersive Audio reduces battery life from 24 to 18 hours
• Limited 3-band equalizer in companion app

Bose’s flagship QC Ultra offers premium design and superb sound, rivaling Sony WH-1000XM5 and Apple AirPods Max. The new spatial audio tech enhances immersion, and call quality is top-notch.

Why Buy: Great for commuters and professionals wanting comfortable, sophisticated headphones with excellent noise isolation.

Why Not Buy: Budget-conscious buyers might prefer more affordable midrange models. Sony’s WH-1000XM6 offers slightly better specs at a similar price point.

Specs:

• Battery Life: Up to 24 hours
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Multipoint Bluetooth: Yes
• Type: Over-ear wireless
• Waterproof: No

Best Premium Wireless for Apple Users

Apple AirPods Max

Pros:

• Surprisingly comfortable for their weight (0.85 lbs) due to mesh headband and weight distribution
• Impressive sound with deep bass, natural mids, clear highs, and wide soundstage
• Excellent noise cancellation and natural transparency mode
• USB-C audio jack now included
• Great voice call performance
• Spatial audio with head tracking for iOS devices
• Auto device switching across Apple devices

Cons:

• Expensive and relatively heavy
• Odd-looking case offers limited protection
• 3.5mm cable not included (extra cost approx. $65)
• Android users miss key features
• Uses older Apple H1 chip, not H2

Apple updated AirPods Max in late 2024 with USB-C charging and new colors, maintaining their premium audio quality and build. Despite weight, they're comfortable for long wear.

Why Buy: Top-tier noise-canceling headphones for Apple users, with exclusive features like spatial audio and seamless Apple ecosystem integration.

Why Not Buy: High price tag and lack of significant chip upgrade since 2020. Android users lose many perks.

Specs:

• Battery Life: Up to 20 hours
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Multipoint Bluetooth: Yes (Apple only)
• Type: Over-ear wireless
• Waterproof: No

Best New Noise-Canceling Design

Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S3

Pros:

• Sleek premium design, lighter and thinner build
• Updated ear pads for comfort
• Enhanced bio-cellulose drivers with discrete amplifier improve sound
• Better noise cancellation and voice call clarity with 8 mics
• USB-C audio output for lossless wired connection

Cons:

• Premium price (around $65 more than PX7 S2)
• Noise canceling slightly behind Sony and Bose
• Fold flat only, no dual hinge folding up
• Default treble can be sharp for some users

PX7 S3 offers improved sound and design over its predecessor, with rich audio and solid noise cancellation, though it trails Sony and Bose slightly.

Why Buy: For those valuing style and USB-C wired audio along with solid noise cancellation.

Why Not Buy: Sound and comfort don’t outshine competitors; existing PX7 S2 owners might not find it worth upgrading.

Specs:

• Battery Life: Up to 30 hours
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Multipoint Bluetooth: Yes
• Type: Over-ear wireless
• Waterproof: No

Sonos’ Answer to AirPods Max

Sonos Ace

Pros:

• Stylish, durable, comfortable fit
• Rich, well-balanced sound
• Strong noise cancellation and clear voice transmission
• Spatial audio with head tracking on iOS and Android
• USB-C wired digital audio
• TV audio swap for Sonos users

Cons:

• Premium price
• True wireless despite Wi-Fi chip for Sonos features
• TV audio swap initially buggy, limited to Sonos Arc soundbar

Sonos Ace impresses with solid noise cancellation, sound quality, and unique TV audio features for Sonos owners, though Wi-Fi streaming is limited due to battery concerns.

Why Buy: Competes well with Sony, Apple, and Bose flagships; great for Sonos soundbar owners.

Why Not Buy: Sony WH-1000XM6 slightly better specs at similar price; pricey for casual buyers.

Specs:

• Battery Life: Up to 30 hours
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Multipoint Bluetooth: Yes
• Type: Over-ear wireless
• Waterproof: No

Previous Generation Sony Flagship

Sony WH-1000XM5

Pros:

• Balanced sound profile
• Improved noise cancellation across frequencies
• Lightweight (250g) with breathable synthetic leather
• Excellent voice call quality
• Robust feature set

Cons:

• Price higher than previous model
• Bulky case folds flat but not up
• Some prefer XM4’s bass
• XM6 offers better design/performance

Still excellent at a discount, XM5 remains a solid choice if XM6 is out of budget.

Why Buy: Great value if found discounted; competitive with Bose QC Ultra and Apple AirPods Max.

Why Not Buy: Newer XM6 offers better features and design.

Specs:

• Battery Life: Up to 32 hours
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Multipoint Bluetooth: Yes
• Type: Over-ear wireless
• Waterproof: No

Best Premium Wireless Apple Earbuds

Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C)

Pros:

• Excellent sound with improved acoustic architecture
• Apple H2 chip supports adaptive audio, speech recognition
• U1 chip and built-in speaker in case for FindMy feature
• Top-notch voice calls and noise cancellation
• Convenient controls on stems

Cons:

• High-res audio support limited to Apple Vision Pro headset
• No XL ear tips
• Shorter battery life than some competitors
• Limited Android features

Perfect for Apple users wanting compact, feature-rich earbuds with spatial audio.

Why Buy: Best-in-class compact earbuds for Apple ecosystem users.

Why Not Buy: Android users miss key features; rumored AirPods Pro 3 might arrive soon.

Specs:

• Battery Life: Up to 6 hours (no ANC)
• Total Battery Life (with case): Up to 30 hours
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Waterproof: Yes (IP54)
• Weight: 5.3g each

Best Wireless Sony Earbuds

Sony WF-1000XM5

Pros:

• Rich, bass-heavy sound
• Excellent noise cancellation
• High-quality voice calls with bone conduction sensors
• Robust feature set including head gesture controls
• Spatial audio with head tracking for Android users

Cons:

• Premium price
• No “Find Me” integration in app
• Ear tips may not fit everyone
• Some features exclusive to Android

These earbuds shine in sound and noise cancellation, with handy gestures and spatial audio for Android users.

Why Buy: High-performance earbuds with impressive features and frequent discounts.

Why Not Buy: Fit may not suit all; WF-1000XM6 due in 2026.

Specs:

• Battery Life: 12 hours (no ANC)
• Total Battery Life (with case): 36 hours
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Waterproof: Yes (IPX4)
• Weight: 5.9g each

Best Wireless Earbuds for Noise Cancellation

Bose QuietComfort Ultra

Pros:

• Fit Kit and stabilizers offer secure, comfy fit
• Best-in-class noise cancellation with natural transparency
• Dynamic sound with clear bass
• Immersive modes widen soundstage
• Improved voice call quality

Cons:

• Bulky earbuds
• No wireless charging or multipoint Bluetooth initially
• Immersive mode reduces battery life (6 to 4 hours)

Bose Ultras deliver superb sound and noise cancellation, plus immersive spatial audio with head tracking.

Why Buy: Top-notch noise cancellation earbuds with excellent sound for those who want quality and comfort.

Why Not Buy: Pricey, bulkier than some competitors, no wireless charging.

Specs:

• Battery Life: 6 hours (no ANC)
• Total Battery Life: 24 hours
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Waterproof: Yes (IPX4)
• Weight: 7.1g each

Best New Wireless Sports Earbuds with Ear Hooks

Beats Powerbeats Pro 2

Pros:

• 20% lighter earbuds, 33% smaller case
• Apple H2 chip for better performance
• Improved noise cancellation and natural transparency
• Excellent sound and voice call quality
• Built-in heart rate sensors
• Physical buttons work great during exercise

Cons:

• Premium price
• Fit issues for some users
• Missing some AirPods Pro 2 features
• Some Apple-exclusive features not available on Android
• Heart rate sensor may be unnecessary for some

With enhanced fit, chip, sensors, and active noise cancellation, these earbuds are versatile for fitness and daily use.

Why Buy: Perfect for active users needing secure fit, good sound, and ANC.

Why Not Buy: Fit can be tricky; some features missing compared to AirPods Pro 2.

Specs:

• Battery Life: 10 hours (no ANC)
• Total Battery Life: 36 hours
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Waterproof: Yes (IPX4)
• Weight: 8.7g each

Top Sounding Headphones from Panasonic

Technics EAH-AZ100

Pros:

• Premium sound quality with Magnetic Fluid drivers
• Compact design for better fit
• Improved noise cancellation and call quality
• Triple multipoint Bluetooth connection
• Dolby Atmos spatial sound with head tracking
• Five ear tip sizes including medium and large

Cons:

• Premium price
• Battery life drops 30% when using LDAC, spatial sound, and ANC
• Earbuds protrude slightly more than some
• Call quality could be better

Compact, excellent sound with immersive features and multipoint connectivity make these a top choice for audiophiles.

Why Buy: Among the best-sounding headphones prioritizing sound quality.

Why Not Buy: Expensive; AirPods Pro 2 offers better noise cancellation and call quality at lower price.

Specs:

• Battery Life: 12 hours (no ANC)
• Total Battery Life: 29 hours
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Waterproof: Yes (IPX4)
• Weight: 5.9g each

Best Over-Ear Beats Headphones

Beats Studio Pro

Pros:

• Markedly improved sound clarity and bass
• Durable seamless faux-leather ear pads for comfort and isolation
• Enhanced noise cancellation and natural transparency
• Great voice call quality
• Spatial sound with head tracking for Apple users
• USB-C wired audio output

Cons:

• Uses custom Beats chip, not Apple H2
• No ear detection for auto-pause/play
• USB-C wired mode disables ANC and transparency

A popular choice with dynamic sound and decent ANC, often compared as a plastic alternative to AirPods Max.

Why Buy: Frequently discounted, offering quality sound and features at a better price than AirPods Max.

Why Not Buy: Missing automatic ear detection and Apple H2 chip limits future updates.

Specs:

• Battery Life: Up to 40 hours
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Multipoint Bluetooth: No
• Type: Over-ear wireless
• Waterproof: No

Best Headphones for Google Pixel and Android Users

Google Pixel Buds Pro 2

Pros:

• Smaller size fits a wider range of ears
• Stabilizing fins for secure fit
• Excellent sound clarity and depth
• New Tensor A1 chip boosts performance
• Enhanced noise cancellation over wider frequencies
• Great voice call tech (Google Clear Calling)
• Hands-free Gemini AI assistant for Android
• Spatial audio with head tracking

Cons:

• Price higher than previous model
• Not everyone achieves perfect fit
• No aptX or LDAC support

Designed for seamless Pixel device integration, these earbuds pack powerful AI features and solid sound.

Why Buy: Especially suited for Pixel users wanting smooth device switching and voice call clarity.

Why Not Buy: iPhone users miss features; fit might not suit everyone; lacks common Android audio codecs.

Specs:

• Battery Life: 12 hours (no ANC)
• Total Battery Life: 48 hours
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Waterproof: Yes (IP54)
• Weight: 4.7g each

Best Wireless Headphones for Samsung Users

Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro

Pros:

• Lightweight, comfortable fit
• Dual-driver system delivers clear highs and deep bass
• Voice recognition and hands-free voice commands without password
• Premium call quality with strong noise cancellation
• Natural ambient sound mode
• LED glowing earbuds for style

Cons:

• Pricey
• Fit may be challenging for some due to patented ear tips
• Design feels generic; touch controls can be finicky
• Noise cancellation could be stronger

Galaxy Buds 3 Pro offer improved sound and features, with exclusive Samsung codec support and a unique design.

Why Buy: Great for Galaxy device users wanting seamless integration and good overall performance.

Why Not Buy: Not ideal for iPhone users; limited ear tip options; ANC slightly weaker than competitors.

Specs:

• Battery Life: 7 hours (no ANC)
• Total Battery Life: 26 hours
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Waterproof: Yes (IP54)
• Weight: 5.4g each

Best Budget Sony Noise-Canceling Headphones

Sony CH-720N

Pros:

• Lightweight and comfortable (192g)
• Good sound with solid noise cancellation and ambient sound mode
• Reliable voice call performance
• Multipoint Bluetooth
• Long battery life (35 hours)
• Customizable equalizer

Cons:

• No carrying case included
• Lacks advanced features like LDAC, ear detection, fast attention, and chat modes

Affordable Sony headphones that deliver quality sound and noise cancellation, ideal for budget-conscious buyers wanting Sony’s reliability.

Why Buy: Great Sony sound and ANC at a friendly price point compared to entry-level models.

Why Not Buy: If you want premium features or accessories, look elsewhere.

Specs:

• Battery Life: Up to 35 hours
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Multipoint Bluetooth: Yes
• Type: Over-ear wireless
• Waterproof: No

Best Sennheiser Noise-Canceling Headphones

Sennheiser Momentum 4

Pros:

• Excellent rich sound with wide soundstage
• Improved noise cancellation and voice calls with dual directional mics
• Personalized sound profiles via app
• Comfortable memory foam ear pads, foldable design

Cons:

• Conventional fold-flat design
• ANC slightly behind Sony and Bose
• Heavier (293g) with less premium look
• Early connectivity issues with some iPhones

Momentum 4 is a solid mid-range option offering good sound quality and customization at a lower price than flagship models.

Why Buy: Affordable alternative to top-tier headphones with great sound and customization.

Why Not Buy: ANC and comfort not quite at flagship levels.

Specs:

• Battery Life: Up to 60 hours
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Multipoint Bluetooth: Yes
• Type: Over-ear wireless
• Waterproof: No

Classic Style Bose Headphones

Bose QuietComfort

Pros:

• Exceptionally comfortable classic fit
• Good sound and noise cancellation with Wind Block for outdoor wind noise
• Excellent call quality with wired mic and six ear mics
• USB-C wired listening with mic support

Cons:

• Higher price than QC45 despite minimal updates
• Lacks Immersive Audio and premium materials of QC Ultra
• Less advanced features than similarly priced competitors

If you love the classic Bose QuietComfort style, these offer reliable performance and comfort at a slightly lower price than QC Ultra.

Why Buy: Perfect for longtime Bose fans wanting a proven comfortable design.

Why Not Buy: QC Ultra offers better specifications and design upgrades.

Specs:

• Battery Life: Up to 24 hours
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Multipoint Bluetooth: Yes
• Type: Over-ear wireless
• Waterproof: No

Best Budget Noise-Canceling Headphones

Earfun Wave Pro

Pros:

• Comfortable for extended wear
• Decent sound with strong bass
• Effective ANC with two levels
• LDAC support on compatible devices
• Includes hard case and wired listening cable

Cons:

• Generic design
• Noise cancellation off in wired mode
• Slightly less crisp bass and clarity than pricier models

Wave Pro offers solid value for under $80, with good sound and ANC, ideal for those on a budget.

Why Buy: Affordable ANC headphones with decent performance and included carry case.

Why Not Buy: Not for discerning listeners craving top-tier sound or ANC in wired mode.

Specs:

• Battery Life: Up to 55 hours
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Multipoint Bluetooth: Yes
• Type: Over-ear wireless
• Waterproof: No

Best Budget Headphones

QCY H3 Pro

Pros:

• Good sound for the price
• Lightweight comfort with memory foam tips
• Decent ANC and call quality
• USB-C wired audio with included cable
• LDAC and multipoint Bluetooth support
• Companion app with customization

Cons:

• ANC off in wired mode
• No carrying case
• Occasional distortion

Surprisingly good sound and features for a budget price near $75, with some limitations.

Why Buy: Solid performance and comfort at a budget-friendly price.

Why Not Buy: Audio clarity lacks detail; no case included; wired ANC disabled.

Specs:

• Battery Life: Up to 40 hours
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Multipoint Bluetooth: Yes
• Type: Over-ear wireless
• Waterproof: No

High Mid-Range Headphones

Sennheiser Accentum Plus

Pros:

• Very good sound clarity and bass
• Adaptive noise cancellation and call capabilities
• Multiple connection options including USB-C wired audio
• Hard carrying case included
• Touch controls, adaptive ANC, aptX Adaptive codec

Cons:

• Strong initial clamping force
• Bland design lacking character
• Sound not as rich as Momentum 4

Accentum Plus is a great mid-tier alternative if flagship models are out of reach, offering solid build and sound quality.

Why Buy: About half the cost of premium models with good sound and noise control.

Why Not Buy: Tight clamping might cause discomfort; ANC less effective than premium models.

Specs:

• Battery Life: Up to 50 hours
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Multipoint Bluetooth: Yes
• Type: Over-ear wireless
• Waterproof: No

Best Wireless Audiophile Headphones

Focal Bathys

Pros:

• Audiophile-grade clarity, detail, and powerful, tight bass
• Unique design with premium build and LED lighting on ear cups
• USB-C wired mode with high-end DAC
• Reliable voice call performance

Cons:

• Expensive
• Noise cancellation weaker than Sony, Bose, Apple
• Included cables don’t match headphone premium feel
• No passive use when battery drains

French audio legend Focal delivers wireless ANC headphones with audiophile sound quality and USB-C DAC for wired listening.

Why Buy: For those seeking top-tier sound quality on wireless headphones.

Why Not Buy: Size and ANC may not suit everyone; high cost.

Specs:

• Battery Life: Up to 30 hours
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Multipoint Bluetooth: Yes
• Type: Over-ear wireless
• Waterproof: No

Best Wired Over-Ear Headphones for the Price

Sony MDR-M1

Pros:

• Exceptional sound clarity, accuracy, and deep bass
• No distortion at high volumes
• Easy to drive with 50 Ohm impedance
• Comfortable with soft ear pads offering passive noise isolation
• Comes with short and long detachable cables and 3.5mm to 6.3mm adapter

Cons:

• Not foldable; no carrying case included
• Ear pad depth may be shallow for some
• No active noise cancellation or mic
• Fully wired design limits mobility

A premium wired option with stellar sound quality, ideal for audiophiles and professionals.

Why Buy: Great wired headphones with superb sound at a reasonable price.

Why Not Buy: No wireless option; some may prefer cheaper MDR-7506.

Specs:

• Type: Wired, closed-back
• Weight: 216g
• Frequency Response: 5Hz–80kHz
• Impedance: 50 Ohm
• Sensitivity: 102 dB

Best Noise-Canceling Budget Headphones

Edifier W830NB

Pros:

• Good clarity, rich bass, wide soundstage
• Affordable (~$100)
• Lightweight (265g) with comfy memory foam pads
• USB-C wired audio support, Bluetooth 5.4 with LDAC, SBC, AAC
• Customizable sound profiles via app
• Improved ANC over predecessor

Cons:

• No carrying case or 3.5mm jack
• Sound not as refined as higher-end models

Edifier’s budget ANC headphones balance price and performance with decent features.

Why Buy: Affordable, comfortable, and solid sound with ANC for those on a budget.

Why Not Buy: Lack of accessories and less refined sound.

Specs:

• Battery Life: Up to 54 hours (ANC on)
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Multipoint Bluetooth: Yes
• Type: Over-ear wireless
• Waterproof: No

Wireless Over-Ear with Superb Sound

Noble Fokus Apollo

Pros:

• Exceptional sound with dual drivers (40mm dynamic + 14.5mm planar magnetic)
• Open, rich sound with tight bass and excellent highs
• Comfortable with Alcantara headband and replaceable genuine leather ear pads
• Includes detachable mic for calls and gaming
• USB-C wired audio support

Cons:

• Pricey
• ANC not top-tier compared to leading brands
• No auto-pause sensors
• Mid-tier Qualcomm QC3084 chip used

Fokus Apollo targets audiophiles with premium sound and unique dual-driver design but moderate ANC.

Why Buy: Top choice for audiophile wireless ANC headphones focused on sound quality.

Why Not Buy: ANC weaker than premium models; limited smart features.

Specs:

• Battery Life: Up to 60 hours (ANC on)
• Noise Cancellation: Yes (ANC)
• Multipoint Bluetooth: Yes
• Type: Over-ear wireless
• Waterproof: No

Frequently Asked Questions

• What’s the difference between over-ear, on-ear, and in-ear headphones?
  Over-ear cover the entire ear for best comfort and isolation; on-ear sit on the ear; in-ear earbuds fit inside ear canal and are most portable.
• Should I choose wired or wireless headphones?
  Wired generally offer better sound and reliability; wireless offer freedom and convenience. Many models support both.
• Is noise cancellation important for daily use?
  Very useful for commuting, flights, and noisy offices, but less crucial in quiet environments. ANC can reduce battery life.
• Do expensive headphones really justify their price?
  Depends on use and ear sensitivity. Between $50–$200 you get major improvements; beyond that, gains are subtler and more about brand and features.
• How important is fit for sound quality and comfort?
  Very important. Proper ear tip size and secure fit improve sound quality, noise isolation, and comfort during long use.

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