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Best Wireless Headphones (2025): Tested Over Many Hours

Other Wireless Headphones We’ve Tested Wireless headphones are the default these days, and there are roughly 1 gazillion of them (and counting). We do our best to test them all, but not everything we test can make the big list. Here are some other good options worth trying. Sony WH-1000XM5 for $300-348: Sony's XM5 (9/10, WIRED Recommends) remain a top headphone, even after being supplanted by the fancier XM6. For a fairly sizable price reduction, you'll get still-fabulous noise-canceling tech,

I replaced my Sonos soundbar for one with detachable rear speakers - and it's worth it

JBL Bar 1000MK2 ZDNET's key takeaways The JBL Bar 1000MK2 includes a soundbar, two detachable rear speakers, and an external subwoofer for $1,200. It's a versatile system, with powerful audio performance suitable for large rooms. It's not an ideal option for people who want permanent rear speakers. $1,199.95 at Walmart $1,199.95 at Crutchfield $1,199.95 at JBL.com more buying choices The original JBL Bar 1000 made a compelling case for itself as a versatile soundbar for those who wanted the o

The Best Colored Noise for Sleep (2025)

As a certified sleep science coach and mattress tester of five years, I'm no stranger to soothing noises being part of many people's sleep hygiene arsenal. For some, the perfect soundtrack might be white noise. For others, it could be a different color entirely—sometimes streamed on their phone, but often courtesy of a sound machine. If your sound machine or app offers a variety of different colored sounds, how might you know what they mean, or which might be best for your brain? How Noise Is “

I swapped my Sonos soundbar for one with detachable rear speakers - genius or gimmick?

JBL Bar 1000MK2 ZDNET's key takeaways The JBL Bar 1000MK2 includes a soundbar, two detachable rear speakers, and an external subwoofer for $1,200. It's a versatile system, with powerful audio performance suitable for large rooms. It's not an ideal option for people who want permanent rear speakers. $1,199.95 at Walmart $1,199.95 at B&H Photo-Video $1,199.95 at Crutchfield more buying choices The original JBL Bar 1000 made a compelling case for itself as a versatile soundbar for those who want

15 Best Bluetooth Speakers Our Testers Jammed With in 2025

The best Bluetooth speakers have a place near and dear to our hearts, even as we’ve seen smart speakers improving their sound and portability. By (mostly) forgoing Wi-Fi radios and voice assistants, Bluetooth speakers are ultraportable, able to venture into the world and withstand rugged conditions like a sandy beach or a steamy Airbnb jacuzzi. They provide worry-free connection to any smartphone, and the top options offer sound that meets or beats the average smart speaker. We've tested hundre

The best soundbars of 2025: Expert tested and recommended

Why we like it: If you're willing to spend the money for the best soundbar system you can get right now, and want something that comes with a subwoofer and surrounds all ready to go, then the Samsung HW-Q990F is the way to go. The system is powerful, immersive, and incredible sounding, and while it's far from cheap, it pushes the limits of what a soundbar can offer. Review: Samsung HQ-Q990F The Samsung HW-Q990F is pretty bulky, and for a reason. It has a 23 drivers built straight into it, with

Bose’s stylish SoundLink Home speaker is cheaper for the first time in months

Audio quality is always going to be a speaker’s most important feature, but it doesn’t hurt if it looks nice too. In our tests, Bose’s SoundLink Home is a solid sounding, aesthetically pleasing portable Bluetooth speaker that you can currently pick up for $199.99 ($20 off) from Amazon, Best Buy, and Bose. The SoundLink Home’s aluminum band and fabric covering distinguish it from the plastic shells used for other speakers, and are likely to be the first things you notice. However, former Verge r

Yamaha’s New Soundbar Has More Up-Firing Dolby Atmos Speakers Than There Are ‘Fast and Furious’ Movies

Sometimes more is better. Case in point: money. I could really use more money, and if you gave me more money, I’d be happy about that—I think most would agree with that sentiment, and if you don’t, I have a favor to ask. Speakers, like money, are also a thing you may want more of, and while they’re not as important as money, they’re important for your ears, and Yamaha is here to take your money in exchange for satisfying your ears in a very maximalist way. Yamaha’s True X Surround 90A soundbar

I brought this portable Marshall speaker on vacation - and now my Bose is staying home

Marshall Middleton II ZDNET's key takeaways Marshall's Middleton II Bluetooth speaker is available in Black And Brass or Cream for $330. The Middleton II debuts with meaningful upgrades from its predecessor, spectacular sound, a stylish design, and 30 hours of battery life. Despite its long list of pros, this speaker is considerably more expensive than its competitors with similar features. $329.99 at Amazon $329.99 at B&H Photo-Video $329.99 at Crutchfield more buying choices There's a sea o

Best Over-Ear Headphones We've Tested (August 2025)

Sennheiser Accentum Plus: If you can't afford Sennheiser's flagship Momentum 4 Wireless headphones or other premium models from Bose, Sony and Apple, the Sennheiser Accentum Plus is a good midrange alternative that doesn't quite offer the same performance as those higher-end models. However, it does offers better build quality and sound than most budget noise canceling headphones. In essence, these are a slightly stripped down version of the Momentum 4 Wireless and share a similar aesthetic and

Best Noise-Canceling Headphones We've Tested (August 2025)

Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2: Bowers & Wilkins released the PX7 S2 headphones in 2022 with some significant improvements over the first-generation version.That was followed by a slightly upgraded version, the PX7 S2e ($400), with the "e" standing for evolved. The audio quality has been slightly upgraded thanks to improved digital processing (the headphones have been retuned), which we assume involves an upgraded chip. You may see this model nicely discounted because Bowers & Wilkins has released the

These $300 Swarovski earbuds aren't my style, but their sound quality has me hooked

Moto Buds Loop ZDNET's key takeaways These Moto Buds Loop earbuds are avaialble now on Amazon for $300. With plenty of bling factor, these earbuds don't skimp on the sound You'll definately want to use the app and the custom EQ option to get the best sound from these earbuds. $299.99 at Amazon I'll be honest: when I first opened the box containing the Moto Buds Loop with Crystals by Swarovski®, I laughed. Why would anyone want earbuds (especially those designed for active lifestyles) that are

Following Up on the Python JIT

Following up on the Python JIT Please consider subscribing to LWN Subscriptions are the lifeblood of LWN.net. If you appreciate this content and would like to see more of it, your subscription will help to ensure that LWN continues to thrive. Please visit this page to join up and keep LWN on the net. Performance of Python programs has been a major focus of development for the language over the last five years or so; the Faster CPython project has been a big part of that effort. One of its subp

The best wireless headphones for 2025: Bluetooth options for every budget

Engadget has been testing and reviewing consumer tech since 2004. Our stories may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission. Read more about how we evaluate products . Whether you're listening to playlists on your daily commute or zoning out with a podcast at home, wireless headphones can make your audio experience much more comfortable. With no cords to untangle or get caught on your bag, they’re a great pick for anyone who wants convenience without

Best Budget Earbuds for 2025: Cheap Wireless Picks

Anker Soundcore AeroFit 2: Anker's Soundcore AeroFit 2 used to be on list but their list price has risen from $100 to $130, so I had to pull them off the list. These open earbuds have been completely redesigned and look quite different from the original AeroFit buds, which also listed for $100. The second-gen Aerofit are not only more comfortable but look sleeker, sound significantly better and offer all-around improvements. The buds aren't as light as the Shokz OpenFit 2 buds and don't sound qu

I test wireless earbuds for a living, but this pair is unlike anything I've ever seen

Moto Buds Loop ZDNET's key takeaways These Moto Buds Loop earbuds are avaialble now on Amazon for $300. With plenty of bling factor, these earbuds don't skimp on the sound You'll definately want to use the app and the custom EQ option to get the best sound from these earbuds. View now at Amazon I'll be honest: when I first opened the box containing the Moto Buds Loop with Crystals by Swarovski®, I laughed. Why would anyone want earbuds (especially those designed for active lifestyles) that ar

I did not expect this portable Marshall speaker to beat out my Bose and JBL like this

Marshall Middleton II ZDNET's key takeaways Marshall's Middleton II Bluetooth speaker is available in Black And Brass or Cream for $330. The Middleton II debuts with meaningful upgrades from its predecessor, spectacular sound, a stylish design, and 30 hours of battery life. Despite its long list of pros, this speaker is considerably more expensive than its competitors with similar features. $329.99 at Amazon $329.99 at B&H Photo-Video $329.99 at Crutchfield more buying choices There's a sea o

I did not expect this $400 Marshall speaker to beat out my Bose and Sony systems like this

Marshall Middleton II ZDNET's key takeaways Marshall's Middleton II Bluetooth speaker is available in Black And Brass or Cream for $330. The Middleton II debuts with meaningful upgrades from its predecessor, spectacular sound, a stylish design, and 30 hours of battery life. Despite its long list of pros, this speaker is considerably more expensive than its competitors with similar features. $329.99 at Amazon $329.99 at B&H Photo-Video $329.99 at Crutchfield more buying choices There's a sea o

This is the soundbar I recommend for deeply immersive audio - and now it's $300 off

LG S95TR Soundbar ZDNET's key takeaways The LG S95TR soundbar with wireless subwoofer is currently on sale for $1,296. The LGS95TR may be expensive, but the high-quality audio is easily worth the price. The soundbar has many features, but some of the best ones require a newer LG TV model. View now at Best Buy View now at Amazon more buying choices It's been a year since LG released the S95TR soundbar, following much hype, as a high-end complement to its newest OLED TVs. The soundbar and wirel

5 simple ways to dramatically improve your soundbar's audio (and for free)

Adam Breeden/ZDNET Soundbars are gaining in popularity because of their sleek design and ability to provide an ample boost in audio quality compared to built-in TV speakers. Even with their plug-and-play nature, you can make a few modifications to help unleash the best possible sound quality. Also: I replaced my Sonos Arc Ultra with this Samsung flagship soundbar - and it's a worthy alternative Whether you're new to soundbar setups or a self-proclaimed audiophile, familiarizing yourself with

Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 review: A sonic powerhouse only slightly improved

Engadget has been testing and reviewing consumer tech since 2004. Our stories may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission. Read more about how we evaluate products . When it comes to audio performance, Bowers & Wilkins is on a hot streak. The company manages to consistently offer balanced and detailed sound across its line of headphones and earbuds. The Px7 and Px8 lines have been mainstays on our best headphones list for a while now, primarily for

Best Noise-Canceling Headphones: Sony, Bose, Apple, and More

Honorable Mentions Now that the majority of new headphones and earbuds offer at least a modicum of noise canceling, it'd be impossible (and unproductive) to list everything we like above. If you haven't yet found your fit, here are more favorites worth considering. Beyerdynamic Amiron 300 for $280: These simple-looking earbuds (8/10, WIRED Recommends) are a great way to experience quiet luxury. They have 10 hours of battery life with noise canceling engaged, and they have some of the best-soun

Finally, a Bluetooth speaker that sounds great and is built to last

Bose SoundLink Max ZDNET's key takeaways The Bose SoundLink Max retails for $399 in the colors Black and Blue Dusk This unassuming Bluetooth speaker delivers the high-quality sound that Bose is known for, with the battery life to keep the party going all night. The regular price might be a turn-off, given you can get perfectly capable speakers for less. View now at Bose View now at Amazon more buying choices Bose's SoundLink Max portable speaker is on sale for $299 at Amazon. This deal only a

Headphone deals: Great prices from Samsung, Apple, and Marshall

Ryan Haines / Android Authority The Samsung offer is available from Woot, while the other sales come from Amazon. There are some price differences, depending on which color versions you want. We’ll go into more detail in each section below. Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro Situational awareness, and utility lights Compared to the nearly identical Buds3, the Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro offer better sound quality, thanks to 2-way speakers, and enhanced

Best Sounding Wireless Earbuds We've Tested (July 2025)

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds: Bose has announced that it will be shipping its improved QC Ultra Earbuds (2nd gen) in the "summer" of 2025 in the U.S., which means you'll be able to find discounts on the original QC Ultra Earbuds, which feature excellent sound and previously best-in-class noise-canceling performance. Sony LinkBuds Fit: Truth be told, in some ways, I like Sony's new LinkBuds Fit ($200) better than its flagship WF-1000XM5 noise-canceling earbuds. While they don't sound quite as

These $60 wireless earbuds made me question my audio spending habits

ZDNET's key takeaways The Soundpeats Air5 Pro earbuds are available on Amazon for $60 for a limited time. The Air5 Pro earbuds offer dynamic lows, crisp highs, and smooth mids that make any genre of music sound good The battery life isn't as good as other earbuds in this price range. $79.99 at Amazon Sound clarity is important, especially when the sound is as up close and personal. When earbuds fail to offer clear and dynamic sound, the end result can feel tinny, shallow, and compressed. Thi

JBL Charge 6 and Flip 7 speakers at record-low prices

JBL speakers are very popular, and the hottest portable ones are the JBL Charge 6 and JBL Flip 7. Both sound great and are very easy to carry around, but they are on the pricier side of the spectrum. Thankfully, they are at a record-low price right now, and you can get them at a $50 discount. Buy the JBL Charge 6 for just $149.95 ($50 off) Buy the JBL Flip 7 for just $99.95 ($50 off) These offers come from Woot, an Amazon-owned website that focuses on deals. They are in new condition and come w

This Is Why Bose's SoundLink Plus Is the Goldilocks of Bose Bluetooth Speakers

8.5 / 10 SCORE Bose SoundLink Plus $269 at Bose $269 at Amazon $269 at B&H Photo-Video Pros Sleek design with integrated rope loop IP67 waterproof, dustproof and shock-resistant Impressive sound for its size with fairly robust, well-defined bass and good clarity EQ settings in Bose companion USB-C charge out allows you to power up a phone and other devices Cons While it's $130 less than the SoundLink Max, it's still pricey No built-in microphone for speakerphone capabilities No auxiliary

This soundbar delivers audio above its price point, and it's not by Sonos or JBL

Yamaha True X Bar 50A Soundbar ZDNET's key takeaways The Yamaha True X Bar 50A is available now for $499, with surround speakers sold separately (and individually). The sound produced by these speakers is rich, deep, well-blended, and spacious. I just wish the setup process were more seamless and straightforward. View now at Amazon For months, I was one hundred percent certain the JBL Bar 1000 soundbar couldn't be beat. It offers incredible clarity of sound, rich bass, and brilliant surround