Top Headphones of 2025 – Perfect Sound for Music and Gaming

Explore the ultimate headphone picks of 2025 offering perfect sound quality for music and gaming enthusiasts.

Introduction: Expert Picks for 2025’s Best Headphones

As a seasoned tech journalist and longtime contributor to T3, I’ve tested dozens of headphones over the years. When it comes to assembling the definitive list of the best headphones—whether full-size over-ear or in-ear buds—I’m here to guide you through some outstanding options.

This guide showcases the cream of the crop as reviewed by expert teams, so you’re looking at truly elite headphones. Each product’s key benefits are highlighted, so you know if you’re getting top-notch noise cancellation, supreme comfort, or long battery life.

On various platforms, expert reviews cover the best active noise-cancelling (ANC) headphones, premium wired options, earbuds, and even specialized running headphones. Here, we strive to cover all bases in one comprehensive overview.

Best Headphones: Quick Overview

Best Overall

Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3

The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 headphones exceed expectations with superb build quality and exceptional sound. They claim the top spot as the best overall headphones.

Best for Traveling

Sony WH-1000XM6

With excellent sound, a return to a foldable design, and both wired and wireless options, the Sony WH-1000XM6 are our favorites for travel headphones.

Best Earbuds

Technics EAH-AZ100

If earbuds are what you want, the Technics EAH-AZ100 combine sleek design and comfort with outstanding sound quality for their size.

In-Depth Reviews of Top Headphones

Best Overall: Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3

Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3

Technical Specs:

• Battery life: 30 hours with ANC
• Wired option: Yes
• aptX support: Yes
• AAC support: Yes

Pros:

• Exceptional ANC technology
• Outstanding sound quality
• Premium build and finish

Cons:

• Some features missing at launch
• Fit may not be perfect for everyone

To make it onto our list, headphones need to be special—and the Px7 S3 fit the bill with bright, confident sound. Once you put them on, you’ll be wowed by their accuracy and power. They look great and feel very comfortable too.

"These over-ear headphones are some of the best in their price range," we noted, especially praising their significantly improved noise cancellation.

Best for Traveling: Sony WH-1000XM6

Sony WH-1000XM6

Technical Specs:

• Battery life: 30 hours with ANC
• Wired option: Yes
• aptX: No
• AAC: Yes

Pros:

• Superb sound
• ANC that challenges belief
• Comfortable design

Cons:

• Battery life could be better
• Price hike from previous model

Ask any owner of the Sony WH-1000XM6 and they’ll tell you how much they love their headphones. Quality sound, comfort, style, and features are all there. The folding design makes them perfect for travel.

Though pricier than the previous model, the sixth iteration of this iconic series is the best yet.

Best Earbuds: Technics EAH-AZ100

Technics EAH-AZ100

Technical Specs:

• Battery life: 10 hours with ANC
• Wired option: No
• aptX: No
• AAC: Yes

Pros:

• Full, piercing sound
• Great battery life
• Sleek, slim design

Cons:

• Case prone to scratches
• AI mic features vary

These earbuds earn a solid 5-star recommendation and could be among the market's best. Compared to the earlier EAH-AZ80, this model boosts battery life, ANC, and aesthetics.

Regardless of your audio source, you’ll get rich, powerful sound. Plus, they come with a competitive price tag.

Best ANC: Bose QuietComfort Ultra

Bose QuietComfort Ultra

Technical Specs:

• Battery life: 24 hours with ANC
• Wired option: Yes
• aptX: No
• AAC: Yes

Pros:

• Unrivaled active noise cancellation
• Excellent sound quality with 3D audio
• Decent battery life (18 hours)

Cons:

• Not foldable, less travel-friendly
• Some prefer Sony’s sound signature

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra delivers stellar sound and outstanding noise cancellation amid tough competition. Their immersive 3D audio makes listening an experience.

Though they don't fold, they come with a handy carrying case. Perfect for home or travel.

"Long live the king of noise cancellation! If you’re after perfect travel headphones, this is your pick," we wrote.

Best ANC (Wireless): Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

Technical Specs:

• Battery life: 6 hours with ANC (24 hours with case)
• Wired option: No
• aptX: Yes
• AAC: Yes

Pros:

• Top-tier sound
• Incredible comfort
• Unmatched noise cancellation

Cons:

• Larger body size
• Pricier than many alternatives

For those prioritizing ANC above all, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds are a favorite, effortlessly blocking outside noise. The accompanying app is well-designed, and build quality is excellent.

Best for Apple Users: Apple AirPods Max

Apple AirPods Max

Technical Specs:

• Battery life: 20 hours with ANC
• Wired option: Yes
• aptX: No
• AAC: Yes

Pros:

• Stunning sound performance
• Extremely comfortable fit
• Premium look and feel

Cons:

• No individual sound customization
• Battery life could be better

Apple fans will find the AirPods Max a perfect match with seamless integration into the ecosystem and incredible sound wrapped in a sleek design. Although pricier, they deliver quality hardware and software as expected from Apple.

"Unmatched sound and seamless Apple ecosystem integration make these an excellent choice," is how we summed them up.

Best Comfort: Sonos Ace

Sonos Ace

Technical Specs:

• Battery life: 30 hours with ANC
• Wired option: Yes
• aptX: Yes
• AAC: Yes

Pros:

• Supreme comfort with memory foam headband
• Powerful spatial audio
• Fun personal theater features

Cons:

• Could use some improvements
• Not ideal for travel

Sonos Ace marks the brand’s headphone debut and stands out for comfort and impressive sound. Despite lacking full integration with Sonos Wi-Fi systems, they bring plenty to love with thoughtful design and long use times.

Best Unique Design: Nothing (1)

Nothing (1)

Technical Specs:

• Battery life: 30 hours with ANC
• Wired option: Yes
• aptX: Yes
• AAC: Yes

Pros:

• Truly unique design
• Well-made construction
• Great sound quality

Cons:

• ANC not class-leading
• Design is an acquired taste

We called Nothing (1) an excellent fresh alternative for those craving headphones that stand apart visually. These over-ear headphones deliver solid sound and craftsmanship.

The design may not be for everyone, but fans of aesthetic innovation will be delighted. Nothing looks set for a bright future in gadgets.

Best AirPods: Apple AirPods Pro 2

Apple AirPods Pro 2

Technical Specs:

• Battery life: 5.5 hours with ANC (30 hours with case)
• Wired option: No
• aptX: No
• AAC: Yes

Pros:

• Excellent active noise cancellation
• Seamless automatic pairing with Apple devices
• Extra silicone ear tips included

Cons:

• Battery life is average
• Starting to show age

Though released a while ago (now with USB-C charging), AirPods Pro 2 remain among the best for Apple users and other Bluetooth gadgets. They support wireless charging, IPX4 water resistance, and deliver impressive sound and noise cancelling.

We called them a “big win” for Apple while eagerly awaiting a possible third generation.

Honorable Mentions

There are some fantastic headphones not included in the main list but worth checking out:

• Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e: Premium headphones with impressive sound and features justifying their price.
• Nothing Ear (2): A budget-friendly contender with excellent value.
• Sony WH-1000XM5: Previous model still great for those seeking top ANC at a better price.
• Jabra Elite 8 Active: Durable, waterproof sports headphones with solid sound.
• Bowers & Wilkins PX8: Luxurious headphones with stellar sound and battery.
• Denon PerL Pro: Wireless headphones combining stylish looks and quality sound.

How to Choose Your Perfect Headphones

Choosing the best headphones isn’t always about picking the priciest option, though it can be tempting. First, consider where you’ll primarily use them—working out, office, or commuting?

If you want to block out the world, investing in headphones with active noise cancellation is a smart move. For sports, sweat-resistant models are essential.

Then decide on the type: over-ear or discreet earbuds? Comfort and personal taste play huge roles. Whether you want invisible wireless buds or want to make a statement with big cans, the choice is yours.

We’ve gathered top picks for every budget, so weigh your priorities and spend accordingly.

Common Headphone Questions

• Which headphones offer the longest battery life?
  The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 and Sonos Ace both provide around 30 hours with ANC active, making them top choices for extended use.
• Are wireless headphones reliable for gaming?
  Yes, many modern wireless headphones feature low latency modes ideal for gaming, ensuring smooth audio without lag.
• Can I use ANC headphones for workouts?
  Some models like Jabra Elite 8 Active are designed for sports with sweat resistance and a secure fit, but many ANC headphones are bulkier and better suited for travel or office use.
• Do Apple AirPods Max work well with non-Apple devices?
  While optimized for Apple products, they can connect via Bluetooth to other devices but may lose some integrated features.
• Is ANC worth the added cost?
  If you often use headphones in noisy environments like planes or busy offices, ANC greatly enhances listening comfort and focus.

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