How to Choose the Best Wireless Headphones in 2025: Expert Guide
How to Choose the Best Wireless Headphones in 2025: Expert Guide
Explore the ultimate wireless headphones guide to find the best models with top sound, noise cancellation, and comfort.
Introduction to Wireless Headphones
Wireless headphones come in all shapes and sizes, but true wireless earbuds dominate the market today. Many feature active noise cancellation (ANC), famously branded as "noise cancelling" by Bose and Google. The best wireless headphones deliver impressive sound quality, comfortable fit, effective noise cancellation, and excellent call performance.
Though some models come with a steeper price tag, there are also budget-friendly options that offer great value. This guide is based on thorough testing and constant updates as new top wireless headphones hit the market.
Top Wireless Headphones at a Glance
Best Wireless Headphones from Sony
Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones Under $130
Best Wireless Headphones for iPhone
Wireless Headphones with Superior Noise Cancellation
Best Sound Quality Earbuds by Panasonic
Best Wireless Headphones for Android
Best Open-Ear Headphones with ANC
Best New Sports Wireless Headphones with Ear Hooks
Best Noise Cancelling Earbuds
Best Everyday Sports Earbuds
Wireless Headphones with Best Sound
Best Wireless Headphones for Samsung Users
Best Wireless Headphones from Sennheiser
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4
Best Value Wireless Earbuds
Best Open-Earbuds with Clip
JBL Noise-Cancelling Headphones with LCD
Best Mid-Sized Wireless Headphones
Best Wireless Headphones for Runners & Cyclists
Best New Headphones from Anker
Sony Headphones with Secure Fit
Best Wireless Headphones by Beyerdynamic
Which Wireless Headphones Are Best for Everyday Use?
With so many excellent wireless headphones, pinpointing a single best is tough. Right now, the Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C), Sony WF-1000XM5, and Technics EAH-AZ100 lead the pack. The budget-friendly Skullcandy Method 360 ANC, featuring "Sound by Bose" tech, is a standout for value, acting as a budget alternative to Bose QuietComfort Ultras.
In-Depth Reviews of 2025’s Best Wireless Headphones
Sony WF-1000XM5
Pros:
- Intuitive touch controls
- Smaller size with 4 ear tip sizes
- Enhanced sound, ANC, and call quality thanks to new processors and drivers
- Spatial audio with head tracking on Android
Cons:
- Pricey
- "Find Me" feature not integrated in the app
- Companion app can crash
- Not ideal for Apple users
Sony’s WF-1000XM5 earbuds refine the impressive WF-1000XM4, offering smaller size and better noise cancellation, sound, and voice calls. They feature 8.2mm drivers and two new proprietary chips, delivering rich sound with clear mids and punchy bass.
Ideal for: Users wanting premium performance with LDAC support on Android and features like Speak-To-Chat.
Not for: Those who need perfect fit or Apple users seeking tighter integration.
Specs:
- Battery life: Up to 8 hours (ANC on)
- Total battery: Up to 24 hours (ANC on)
- Water resistance: IPX4
- Weight: 5.9g each
Skullcandy Method 360 ANC
Pros:
- Impressive Bose sound tech beats competitors in price range
- Secure fit with stabilizers and three ear tip sizes
- Solid 40 hours total battery life
- Customizable app controls
Cons:
- Bulky charging case
- Lacks premium finish of Bose
- Noise cancelling decent but not best
- Call quality weak in noisy environments
Skullcandy teams with Bose to deliver budget ANC earbuds sounding better than most in their class, with Bose Fit Kits for secure sport-friendly fit. Noise cancellation is good but not top-tier.
Ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers wanting Bose-quality sound.
Not for: Those wanting ultra-compact cases or perfect call clarity.
Specs:
- Battery life: 9 hours (ANC on)
- Total battery: 32 hours (ANC on)
- Water resistance: IPX4
- Weight: 11g each
Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C)
Pros:
- Lightweight, USB-C charging, dust-resistant
- Excellent sound and ANC with improved acoustics
- Powered by Apple H2 chip
- U1 chip and speaker in case for precise Find My
- Great voice call quality
- Supports 20-bit lossless sound on Vision Pro headset
- Convenient controls
Cons:
- High-res audio only on Vision Pro headset
- No XL ear tips included
The AirPods Pro 2 remain the gold standard for Apple users, delivering seamless device switching, stellar ANC, and spatial audio with head tracking. The USB-C charging case upgrade and acoustic updates in 2023 add more polish.
Ideal for: Apple ecosystem users needing a compact, versatile premium earbud.
Not for: Android users or those who can wait for rumored AirPods Pro 3.
Specs:
- Battery life: Around 6 hours (ANC on)
- Total battery: 30 hours (ANC on)
- Water resistance: IP54
- Weight: 5.3g each
Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Pros:
- Best-in-class ANC and natural transparency mode
- Wide, immersive soundstage
- Comfortable Fit Kit and stabilizers
- Qualcomm 5-series chip with immersive audio modes
- Improved voice call features
- Responsive touch controls
Cons:
- No wireless charging or multi-point Bluetooth initially
- Immersive mode reduces battery life from 6 to 4 hours
Bose’s Ultra buds offer possibly the finest noise cancellation available with excellent sound and comfort. The spatial audio creates a broad soundstage, and call clarity is strong, though not quite Apple-level.
Ideal for: Those seeking top-notch ANC and sound with reliable fit.
Not for: Budget buyers or compact-earbud lovers.
Specs:
- Battery life: 6 hours (ANC on)
- Total battery: 24 hours (ANC on)
- Water resistance: IPX4
- Weight: 7.1g each
Technics EAH-AZ100
Pros:
- Premium sound from Magnetic Fluid drivers
- Compact design for better fit
- Improved ANC and voice calls
- Triple device Bluetooth pairing
- Dolby Atmos spatial sound with head tracking
- Five ear tip sizes
Cons:
- Premium price
- Battery life drops 30% with LDAC & spatial sound
- Somewhat protrudes in ears
- Voice calls could be better
These flagship Panasonic earbuds shine with pure, detailed sound and advanced features like Dolby Atmos. Compact and comfortable, they are a top choice for audiophiles.
Ideal for: Sound quality lovers prioritizing audio fidelity.
Not for: Those seeking best ANC or cheaper alternatives.
Specs:
- Battery life: 10 hours (ANC on)
- Total battery: 28 hours (ANC on)
- Water resistance: IPX4
- Weight: 5.9g each
Google Pixel Buds Pro 2
Pros:
- Smaller for lightweight comfort
- Tensor A1 chip enhances sound and ANC
- Clear Calling tech improves voice calls
- Gemini AI assistant hands-free for Android
- Spatial audio
Cons:
- Ear tips may not seal well
- No AptX or LDAC codec support
- Some features Android-only
Google’s latest Pixel Buds bring improved chipsets and AI to deliver excellent ANC and voice clarity, especially for Pixel device owners.
Ideal for: Android users, especially Pixel enthusiasts.
Not for: Apple users wanting full feature access.
Specs:
- Battery life: 10 hours (ANC on)
- Total battery: 30 hours (ANC on)
- Water resistance: IP54
- Weight: 4.7g each
Apple AirPods 4 ANC (Open-Ear)
Pros:
- Compact open-ear design
- First open-ear with effective ANC
- Improved sound & Apple H2 chip
- Wireless charging case with speaker for Find My
Cons:
- May not fit all ears
- Shorter battery life
- ANC less effective than Pro 2
AirPods 4 bring ANC to open-ear design, great for those wanting awareness of surroundings with some noise cancellation.
Ideal for: Users preferring open-ear fit and ambient awareness.
Not for: Those needing powerful ANC or in-ear sealing.
Specs:
- Battery life: 4 hours (ANC on)
- Total battery: 20 hours (ANC on)
- Water resistance: IP54
- Weight: 4.3g each
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 (Sports)
Pros:
- 20% lighter, smaller case
- Apple H2 chip
- Improved ANC & transparency
- Great sound and call quality
- Heart rate sensor built-in
- Physical controls for workouts
- Wireless charging
Cons:
- Premium price
- Fit may not suit all
- Lacks some AirPods exclusives for Android users
- Heart rate sensor sometimes unnecessary
Powerbeats Pro 2 combine robust sport design with top-tier sound, ANC, and fitness tracking.
Ideal for: Fitness enthusiasts wanting secure fit and premium features.
Not for: Those with ear fit challenges or tight budgets.
Specs:
- Battery life: 8 hours (ANC on)
- Total battery: 36 hours (ANC on)
- Water resistance: IPX4
- Weight: 8.7g each
Earfun Air Pro 4
Pros:
- Great value for price
- Slightly warm, bassy sound customizable in app
- Effective ANC and call noise reduction
- AAC, AptX, LDAC support
- Wireless charging and multipoint Bluetooth
Cons:
- Touch controls can be finicky
- Call quality can dip in noisy spaces
Earfun offers incredible performance at a budget-friendly price, winning 2024 Editor’s Choice.
Ideal for: Buyers seeking function-packed earbuds without breaking the bank.
Not for: Users needing highest call clarity or perfect touch control.
Specs:
- Battery life: 11 hours (no ANC)
- Total battery: 52 hours
- Water resistance: IPX5
- Weight: 5.2g each
Beats Fit Pro
Pros:
- Lightweight with ear hooks for secure fit
- 9.5mm drivers deliver clear, bassy sound
- Solid ANC and transparency mode
- Better battery than AirPods Pro
- Apple H1 chip with spatial audio
- Android app support
Cons:
- Needs update, lacks Apple H2 chip
- No wireless charging
- Limited Find My features
Beats Fit Pro are compact, comfortable with decent sound and ANC, a great alternative to Powerbeats Pro.
Ideal for: Those wanting a secure, lightweight sports wireless earbud.
Not for: Buyers seeking newest chipsets or wireless charging.
Specs:
- Battery life: 6 hours (ANC on)
- Total battery: 24 hours (ANC on)
- Water resistance: IPX4
- Weight: 5.6g each
Bowers & Wilkins Pi8
Pros:
- Premium 12mm carbon-coated drivers
- Sleek, smaller fit
- Improved ANC and call quality
- Charging case doubles as Bluetooth transmitter
- AptX codec support
Cons:
- Expensive
- Competes with higher ANC and feature-rich models
Pi8 offer some of the best sound with hi-fi clarity and a unique charging case feature.
Ideal for: Audiophiles wanting exceptional sound and versatile usage on the go.
Not for: Price-sensitive buyers or those needing superior ANC.
Specs:
- Battery life: 6.5 hours (ANC on)
- Total battery: 20 hours (ANC on)
- Water resistance: IP54
- Weight: 6g each
Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro
Pros:
- Lightweight, comfortable
- Dual drivers deliver crisp highs and deep bass
- Advanced voice recognition and control
- Excellent call clarity and noise cancellation
- Natural ambient mode
- Stylish LED accents
Cons:
- Pricey
- Custom ear tips may not fit all
- Slightly generic design
- ANC could be stronger
Samsung’s flagship buds bring improved sound, voice control, and comfort, especially for Galaxy device users.
Ideal for: Samsung Galaxy device owners wanting top integration.
Not for: Users on other platforms or seeking best ANC.
Specs:
- Battery life: 7 hours (ANC on)
- Total battery: 26 hours (ANC on)
- Water resistance: IP54
- Weight: 5.4g each
Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4
Pros:
- Balanced, detailed, bass-rich sound
- Updated Qualcomm chipset, gaming mode, LE Audio & Auracast
- Adjustable transparency and effective ANC
- Advanced mics with AI voice recognition
Cons:
- Look unchanged from prior model
- ANC less effective than Bose or Sony
- Call quality could improve
Sennheiser Momentum offers audiophile sound with solid ANC and call performance.
Ideal for: Audio enthusiasts prioritizing natural, detailed sound.
Not for: Those requiring highest voice call clarity or compact design.
Specs:
- Battery life: 7 hours (ANC on)
- Total battery: 28 hours (ANC on)
- Water resistance: IP54
- Weight: 6.2g each
Beats Studio Buds Plus
Pros:
- Lightweight, compact with secure fit
- Better ANC and voice call quality than original Studio Buds
- Android and iOS compatible
- Longer battery life
Cons:
- No wireless charging
- Missing advanced features like spatial audio
- No ear detection sensors
Improved version provides high-quality sound and performance at a reasonable price.
Ideal for: Those wanting value-packed earbuds compatible with Android and iOS.
Not for: Buyers seeking cutting-edge features or wireless charging.
Specs:
- Battery life: 6 hours (ANC on)
- Total battery: 24 hours (ANC on)
- Water resistance: IPX4
- Weight: 5g each
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds
Pros:
- Lightweight with innovative open-ear design
- Great sound for open earbuds, rich bass
- Good call quality
- Customizable controls
Cons:
- Expensive
- Design not for all
- Not ideal for noisy environments
Bose’s Ultra Open Earbuds pioneer open-ear with ANC, combining ambient awareness with decent sound.
Ideal for: Users wanting to stay aware while listening.
Not for: Those needing full ANC or closed fit.
Specs:
- Battery life: 7 hours
- Total battery: 27 hours
- Water resistance: IPX4
- Weight: 6.4g each
JBL Live Beam 3
Pros:
- Lightweight, comfortable
- Clear sound with strong bass
- Color touchscreen on case for controls
- Good ANC & call quality
- Wireless charging & LDAC support
Cons:
- ANC not top-tier
- Heavier charging case
- Limited features compared to AirPods Pro 2
JBL Live Beam 3 impress with touchscreen charging case and solid sound at good price.
Ideal for: Users preferring unique control and solid all-around performance.
Not for: Those wanting premium ANC or ultra-light case.
Specs:
- Battery life: 10 hours (ANC on)
- Total battery: 40 hours (ANC on)
- Water resistance: IP55
- Weight: 5g each
Nothing Ear (Mid-Sized Wireless)
Pros:
- Stylish transparent design
- Improved sound & ANC from prior model
- Versatile app with EQ presets
- Supports AAC, SBC, LHDC 5.0 & LDAC
- Good call quality
Cons:
- No XL ear tips
- High ANC settings affect sound quality
- Average battery life
Nothing Ear combines modern aesthetics with solid performance and customization options.
Ideal for: Design-conscious users seeking advanced codec support.
Not for: Those needing best ANC or large ear tips.
Specs:
- Battery life: 5.2 hours (ANC on)
- Total battery: 24 hours (ANC on)
- Water resistance: IP54
- Weight: 4.8g each
Shokz OpenFit 2 (For Runners & Cyclists)
Pros:
- Lightweight with ear hooks
- Excellent open-ear sound
- Up to 11 hours battery
- Physical & touch controls
- Good call quality
Cons:
- Somewhat pricey
- Charging case not waterproof
Shokz OpenFit 2 offers great open-ear comfort and sound for athletes wanting awareness and secure fit.
Ideal for: Runners, cyclists, and open-ear fans.
Not for: Budget buyers or full ANC seekers.
Specs:
- Battery life: 11 hours
- Total battery: 48 hours
- Water resistance: IP55
- Weight: 9.4g each
Anker Soundcore Liberty 5
Pros:
- Comfortable fit with neat design
- Better ANC and voice call noise reduction
- Good battery life (8 hours ANC)
- Convenient sliding lid case
Cons:
- Price could be closer to $130
- Slight sibilance in highs
Anker Liberty 5 improve upon Liberty 4 with stronger ANC, voice calls, and a practical case.
Ideal for: Users wanting solid sound and features for less than premium prices.
Not for: Those sensitive to high-frequency sibilance or higher price points.
Specs:
- Battery life: 8 hours (ANC on)
- Total battery: 32 hours (ANC on)
- Water resistance: IP55
- Weight: 4.6g each
Sony LinkBuds Fit
Pros:
- Lightweight with comfortable and secure fit
- Good sound with solid bass
- Effective ANC and call noise reduction
- Voice commands and phone call enhancement
- Personalization accessories
Cons:
- Overpriced at full retail
- No wireless charging
Sony LinkBuds Fit are a sporty alternative with great fit and sound, lighter than flagship WF-1000XM5.
Ideal for: Users wanting sport-fit with decent noise cancelling.
Not for: Price-conscious buyers.
Specs:
- Battery life: 6 hours (ANC on)
- Total battery: 20 hours (ANC on)
- Water resistance: IPX4
- Weight: 4.9g each
Beyerdynamic Amiron 300
Pros:
- Comfortable, lightweight design
- Clear, open, balanced sound
- Great call quality with triple mics
- Wireless charging and ear detection
- Customizable EQ app
Cons:
- Expensive
- ANC decent but not best
Beyerdynamic Amiron 300 offer audiophile-grade balanced sound with comfortable fit and good call performance.
Ideal for: Audiophiles who prioritize balanced sound over maximum ANC.
Not for: Budget buyers or ANC-focused users.
Specs:
- Battery life: 7 hours (ANC on)
- Total battery: 26 hours (ANC on)
- Water resistance: IP54
- Weight: 4.4g each
Factors to Consider When Choosing Wireless Headphones
Budget and Usage
Decide your budget and balance price vs features. Entry-level ($40-$110) offer decent sound with fewer features. Mid-range ($110-$200) combine better sound with ANC and IP ratings. Premium ($200-$400) deliver high-end sound, noise cancelling, longer battery life, and extras. Choose based on intended use: commuting, fitness, calls, or audiophile listening.
Noise Cancellation
ANC uses microphones and processors to cancel outside noise. Adaptive systems adjust dynamically. Some premium models tailor ANC for planes, transport, or chatter. ANC reduces battery life and can affect sound quality, so look for natural transparency modes.
Battery Life
Expect 5-12 hours per charge; ANC cuts ~20-30%. Cases add multiple charges. Fast charge options provide extra hours for minutes of charging. Wireless charging and reverse charging are premium perks.
Features
Modern earbuds have Bluetooth 5.2+, multipoint connectivity, and support for codecs like AAC (Apple) or aptX/LDAC (Android). Controls may be touch, buttons, or voice. AI-powered mic arrays enhance call clarity. Companion apps offer EQ, firmware updates, and device tracking.
Durability and Design
Look for sturdy materials, reinforced hinges, and IP ratings (IPX4 splash to IP68 dust/waterproof). Compact cases ease portability but may trade off battery capacity. Wireless charging adds convenience but can bulk cases.
Fit and Comfort
Correct fit ensures sound quality and ANC efficiency. Look for multiple ear tip sizes/materials and ear hooks if needed. Some apps test fit. Sports users want stabilizers preventing movement.
Return Policies
Buy from retailers with good return policies and check manufacturer warranties (1-2 years). Test earbuds extensively to find the perfect match.
How Testing is Done
Testing involves multiple criteria: design, sound quality, ANC effectiveness, features, call quality, and price. Sound tests use carefully chosen tracks across frequency ranges and dynamics to evaluate bass, mids, highs, and clarity. ANC tests happen in noisy indoor and outdoor environments. Additional tests review app usability, Bluetooth connectivity, and durability.
Other Noteworthy Wireless Headphones
- Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC (budget friendly, solid ANC)
- Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 (durable, great sound, discontinued)
- Sennheiser CX (budget alternative to Momentum)
- Beats Studio Buds (light, good sound, lacks some Apple features)
- Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro (high-res audio for Samsung devices)
- JBL Tour Pro 2 (color display case, good features)
- Sony LinkBuds S (budget Sony buds with ANC)
- Sony WF-1000XM4 (previous Sony flagship, still excellent)
- Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 (prior generation)
- Beyerdynamic Free Byrd (first true wireless from Beyerdynamic)
- Bang & Olufsen Beoplay EX (luxury earbuds with premium sound)
- Sony LinkBuds (open design earbuds with ambient sound)
Frequently Asked Questions
- What’s the difference between wireless and true wireless earbuds?
Wireless earbuds may have cables connecting the two earpieces but no wire to the device. True wireless earbuds have no wires at all, connecting via Bluetooth independently. - Should I buy wired or wireless headphones?
Wireless offer convenience and freedom—perfect for commuting or workouts. Wired often deliver slightly better sound quality due to direct connections. Choose based on your lifestyle and sound preferences. - What is considered good battery life for true wireless earbuds?
Typically, 5-8 hours per charge with 15-30 hours total with case is good. Premium models push 8-10+ hours. ANC reduces battery life by 20-30%. Fast charging is a plus. - Are wireless earbuds better than over-ear or in-ear?
Each style has pros and cons. Over-ear offer longer battery life and comfort for long use, in-ear are compact and portable. Wireless earbuds combine portability and modern features but vary in fit and battery. - What features should I prioritize when buying wireless earbuds?
Consider sound quality, ANC effectiveness, battery life, fit, and compatibility with your devices. Also check for codec support, durability, controls, and companion app features.
Choosing the right wireless headphones depends on your lifestyle and what features matter most, from sound quality to fit and battery life.
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