In theory, all headphones should sound great when you're listening to music, but not all are specifically designed to provide a high-quality music listening experience. That's not always a bad thing, as some headphones are built more to offer lots of features and good noise-cancelation, while others focus more on a sleek and stylish design.
Still, some headphones are designed more with high-quality sound in mind. These headphones don't always have excellent noise-cancelation or some of the high-tech features that consumer-level wireless headphones offer, but they do have an excellent audio response.
What are the best headphones for music right now?
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 are the best headphones for music right now, and you will commonly see them on the ears of audio professionals. These headphones have a marathon battery and can perform over a wired connection even if the battery is dead. The ATH-M50xBT2 are not the most feature-packed headphones out there, but if music is your priority, they will not disappoint.
If you prefer headphones that sound great but offer modern features like voice assistant compatibility and noise-cancelation, the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 are another solid option. They have a beautiful sound profile, a stylish build, and adequate noise-canceling properties for everyday use.
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Best music headphones of 2025
Show less View now at Amazon Why we like them: The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 headphones are the latest iteration of Audio-Technica's iconic professional headphones. They offer that signature Audio-Technica sound in addition to wireless connectivity. They feature 45mm large-aperture drivers for exceptional and accurate sound reproduction, and deliver deep, impactful bass with detailed, crisp highs. These headphones are great for professionals and casual listeners alike because they combine Audio-Technica's excellent AK4331 digital-to-analog converter and an internal headphone amp. These help the headphones deliver high-quality audio, no matter the music genre. Review: Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 Outside of the studio, they still sound great with Bluetooth connectivity and support Sony's LDAC Bluetooth codec for high-res audio. They have a very neutral audio profile, so don't expect a booming bass or scooped-out mid frequencies. Not only that, but they have an absolutely massive battery life that sits at 60 hours of continuous listening. Who they're for: The ATH-M50xBT2's frequency range makes them great for professionals and casual listeners. These headphones let you listen through a wired connection at their desk or near their vinyl player or with a wireless connection on your phone. If you're looking for a great pair of music headphones that don't break the bank, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 headphones are worth considering. Who should look elsewhere: If you're an audiophile who's willing to spend a ton of cash on the best headphones you can find, then you might want to keep looking. Alternatively, if you're on a tight budget, there are other options on this list for you. Part of how these headphones achieve such a lengthy battery life is by not having noise-cancelation, which is something to keep in mind for those who want a pair of headphones that they can take on a plane or use in a busy cafe. Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 tech specs: Form factor: Over-ear | Weight: 10.8 oz (307 g) | Battery life: 60+ hours | Frequency response: 15Hz - 28kHz | Bluetooth: Yes (5.0) SBC, AAC, LDAC | Wired option(s): 3.5mm headphone jack | Noise-cancelation: No | Driver type: 45mm dynamic Pros Marathon battery
Simple software
Wired option Cons Tight fit
Does not fold all the way Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 Best headphones for music overall Why we like them: The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 headphones are the latest iteration of Audio-Technica's iconic professional headphones. They offer that signature Audio-Technica sound in addition to wireless connectivity. They feature 45mm large-aperture drivers for exceptional and accurate sound reproduction, and deliver deep, impactful bass with detailed, crisp highs. These headphones are great for professionals and casual listeners alike because they combine Audio-Technica's excellent AK4331 digital-to-analog converter and an internal headphone amp. These help the headphones deliver high-quality audio, no matter the music genre. Review: Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 Outside of the studio, they still sound great with Bluetooth connectivity and support Sony's LDAC Bluetooth codec for high-res audio. They have a very neutral audio profile, so don't expect a booming bass or scooped-out mid frequencies. Not only that, but they have an absolutely massive battery life that sits at 60 hours of continuous listening. Who they're for: The ATH-M50xBT2's frequency range makes them great for professionals and casual listeners. These headphones let you listen through a wired connection at their desk or near their vinyl player or with a wireless connection on your phone. If you're looking for a great pair of music headphones that don't break the bank, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 headphones are worth considering. Who should look elsewhere: If you're an audiophile who's willing to spend a ton of cash on the best headphones you can find, then you might want to keep looking. Alternatively, if you're on a tight budget, there are other options on this list for you. Part of how these headphones achieve such a lengthy battery life is by not having noise-cancelation, which is something to keep in mind for those who want a pair of headphones that they can take on a plane or use in a busy cafe. Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 tech specs: Form factor: Over-ear | Weight: 10.8 oz (307 g) | Battery life: 60+ hours | Frequency response: 15Hz - 28kHz | Bluetooth: Yes (5.0) SBC, AAC, LDAC | Wired option(s): 3.5mm headphone jack | Noise-cancelation: No | Driver type: 45mm dynamic Read More Show Expert Take Show less
Show less View now at Sony Why we like them: The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are the latest in Sony's long line of much-loved wireless headphones. They're a little more expensive than their predecessors, but in return they offer improved noise-cancelation, excellent audio response, and a comfortable fit. Review: Sony WH-1000XM6 The XM6 headphones aren't just better than the preceding XM5 headphones but can also block more noise than Bose's best. Whether you're on a plane, a bus, or in a busy cafe, these headphones are better at blocking noise than anything else on the market. The XM6 also sound stunning. They're not quite audiophile headphones, still catering to consumer or casual use. Still, for consumer headphones, they sound very natural and detailed. Sony says it collaborated with well-known mastering engineers for the tuning of these headphones, and it shows. They have deep and impactful bass, neutral mids, and clear, detailed highs. The Sony Sound Connect app also offers a 10-band EQ that lets you tweak the audio response to your preferences. As you would expect, they also support Sony's own LDAC Bluetooth codec, so with the right phone, you can get high-res audio to maximize the great frequency response. The headphones come with a cable for wired listening, so if you prefer to listen with a wired connection, you can do so. They also come with a great travel case, and with folding ear cups, they're more portable than the WH-1000XM5 headphones. Who they're for: The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones offer a comfortable fit, excellent audio response, and the best noise-cancelation in the industry. If you're willing to pay for those things, then these headphones are for you. If you're seeking a pair of do-it-all headphones that sound great, these are the way to go. Who should look elsewhere: If you're an audiophile looking for a pair of ultra high-resolution, open-back headphones, these aren't quite the way to go. Additionally, if you're on a tight budget, then it's worth looking at another option, as these headphones are a little pricey. Sony WH-1000XM6 tech specs: Form factor: Over-ear | Weight: 8.9 oz (254 g) | Battery life: 40 hours | Frequency response: 4Hz - 40kHz | Bluetooth: Yes (5.3) SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3 | Wired option(s): 3.5mm headphone jack | Noise-cancelation: Yes | Driver type: 30mm dynamic Sony WH-1000XM6 Best noise-canceling headphones for music Why we like them: The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are the latest in Sony's long line of much-loved wireless headphones. They're a little more expensive than their predecessors, but in return they offer improved noise-cancelation, excellent audio response, and a comfortable fit. Review: Sony WH-1000XM6 The XM6 headphones aren't just better than the preceding XM5 headphones but can also block more noise than Bose's best. Whether you're on a plane, a bus, or in a busy cafe, these headphones are better at blocking noise than anything else on the market. The XM6 also sound stunning. They're not quite audiophile headphones, still catering to consumer or casual use. Still, for consumer headphones, they sound very natural and detailed. Sony says it collaborated with well-known mastering engineers for the tuning of these headphones, and it shows. They have deep and impactful bass, neutral mids, and clear, detailed highs. The Sony Sound Connect app also offers a 10-band EQ that lets you tweak the audio response to your preferences. As you would expect, they also support Sony's own LDAC Bluetooth codec, so with the right phone, you can get high-res audio to maximize the great frequency response. The headphones come with a cable for wired listening, so if you prefer to listen with a wired connection, you can do so. They also come with a great travel case, and with folding ear cups, they're more portable than the WH-1000XM5 headphones. Who they're for: The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones offer a comfortable fit, excellent audio response, and the best noise-cancelation in the industry. If you're willing to pay for those things, then these headphones are for you. If you're seeking a pair of do-it-all headphones that sound great, these are the way to go. Who should look elsewhere: If you're an audiophile looking for a pair of ultra high-resolution, open-back headphones, these aren't quite the way to go. Additionally, if you're on a tight budget, then it's worth looking at another option, as these headphones are a little pricey. Sony WH-1000XM6 tech specs: Form factor: Over-ear | Weight: 8.9 oz (254 g) | Battery life: 40 hours | Frequency response: 4Hz - 40kHz | Bluetooth: Yes (5.3) SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3 | Wired option(s): 3.5mm headphone jack | Noise-cancelation: Yes | Driver type: 30mm dynamic Read More Show Expert Take Show less
Show less View now at Bowers & Wilkins View now at Crutchfield Why we like them: The Bowers and Wilkins Px7 S3 debuted with slim earcups, a comfortable fit, a high-quality build, and incredible sound. We like the Px7 S3 for its ability to provide exceptional sound quality and a stylish design to consumers looking for everyday features like wind microphone noise reduction, active noise-cancelation, and aptX Bluetooth codecs. Review: Bowers and Wilkins Px7 S3 The Px7 S3 have a detailed sound, offering a slight bump in the bass for the bass-forward consumer and another boost in the treble for a crisp sound profile. Their soundstage is wider than similarly priced competitors, providing an open and highly enjoyable listening experience. Aside from their great sound, the Px7 S3 are very stylish and have a well-dressed build and design, offering consumers an elevated look that's the right amount of casual and classy. Who these are for: The Px7 S3 are best suited for people with a refined sonical palate who want a pair of everyday headphones that they can take on their daily activities. These headphones don't fold, but their slim design gives them an unimposing form factor. Who should look elsewhere: The Px7 S3 sound, feel, and look great, but their noise-canceling capabilities fall behind competitors within the same price range. These headphones have sufficient noise-cancelation, but struggle in noisy environments. For the same amount of money, you can get industry-leading noise-cancelation from Sony or Bose. Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 tech specs: Form factor: Over-ear | Weight: 10.5 oz (300 g) | Battery life: 30 hours | Frequency response: 10Hz - 20kHz | Bluetooth: Yes (5.3) SBC, AAC, aptX Standard, Lossless, HD, Adaptive | Wired option(s): USB-C; 3.5mm headphone jack | Noise-cancelation: Yes | Driver type: 40mm dynamic Bowers and Wilkins Px7 S3 Best stylish headphones for music Why we like them: The Bowers and Wilkins Px7 S3 debuted with slim earcups, a comfortable fit, a high-quality build, and incredible sound. We like the Px7 S3 for its ability to provide exceptional sound quality and a stylish design to consumers looking for everyday features like wind microphone noise reduction, active noise-cancelation, and aptX Bluetooth codecs. Review: Bowers and Wilkins Px7 S3 The Px7 S3 have a detailed sound, offering a slight bump in the bass for the bass-forward consumer and another boost in the treble for a crisp sound profile. Their soundstage is wider than similarly priced competitors, providing an open and highly enjoyable listening experience. Aside from their great sound, the Px7 S3 are very stylish and have a well-dressed build and design, offering consumers an elevated look that's the right amount of casual and classy. Who these are for: The Px7 S3 are best suited for people with a refined sonical palate who want a pair of everyday headphones that they can take on their daily activities. These headphones don't fold, but their slim design gives them an unimposing form factor. Who should look elsewhere: The Px7 S3 sound, feel, and look great, but their noise-canceling capabilities fall behind competitors within the same price range. These headphones have sufficient noise-cancelation, but struggle in noisy environments. For the same amount of money, you can get industry-leading noise-cancelation from Sony or Bose. Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 tech specs: Form factor: Over-ear | Weight: 10.5 oz (300 g) | Battery life: 30 hours | Frequency response: 10Hz - 20kHz | Bluetooth: Yes (5.3) SBC, AAC, aptX Standard, Lossless, HD, Adaptive | Wired option(s): USB-C; 3.5mm headphone jack | Noise-cancelation: Yes | Driver type: 40mm dynamic Read More Show Expert Take Show less
Show less View now at Amazon View now at Best Buy View now at B&H Photo-Video Why we like them: Wireless earbuds aren't typically known for their audiophile-level frequency response, but the Technics EAH-AZ100 earbuds are an exception. These are perhaps the best-sounding earbuds out there, offering excellently clear high frequencies and tight, deep bass. It's not surprising that they sound so good. The preceding EAH-AZ80 earbuds were considered to be among the best-sounding earbuds on the market. For the EAH-AZ100 earbuds, Technics redesigned the drivers for a punchier, more neutral sound. Even most audiophiles will appreciate how they sound out of the box for a pair of wireless earbuds, and they support a solid EQ that can help users dial in the sound to their preferences. The earbuds have a sleek and stylish build and a small and portable charging case. Perhaps their biggest downside is that they're not quite the most comfortable earbuds out there. I found that they didn't stay in my ears as well as some others, but most will find that they're comfortable enough to listen for longer sessions. The headphones are built for high-res listening with LDAC support, and they have Bluetooth multipoint with up to three simultaneous connections, beating the two connections that most headphones support. The Technics EAH-AZ100's noise-cancelation is good, but not as high-quality as the Apple AirPods Pro, Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, or Sony WF-1000XM5. Still, they can effectively cut out most noise from a plane engine or a busy street, so the noise-cancelation is not subpar. Who they're for: The Technics EAH-AZ100 earbuds are for those who want a pair of earbuds and prioritize audio quality above all else. Their noise-cancelation less impressive than others, but it's still quite good. They're also not as comfortable as some earbuds with stems, but most will find that they're comfortable enough for most listening sessions. If you care most about getting a neutral and accurate audio response and want earbuds, these are the way to go. Who should look elsewhere: If you're looking for a more well-rounded pair of earbuds, there are others that don't sound quite as good but have a more comfortable fit and better noise-cancelation. Additionally, the Technics EAH-AZ100 earbuds are a little expensive, so if you're on a tight budget, it might be worth looking elsewhere. Technics EAH-AZ100 tech specs: Form factor: In-ear | Weight: .21 oz (5.9 g; per earbud) | Battery life: 12 hours | Frequency response: 20Hz - 40kHz | Bluetooth: Yes (5.3) SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3 | Wired option(s): N/A | Noise-cancelation: Yes | Driver type: 10mm dynamic Pros Great battery life
Good ANC
Excellent audio quality Cons Fit isn't the best
Expensive Technics EAH-AZ100 Best earbuds for music Why we like them: Wireless earbuds aren't typically known for their audiophile-level frequency response, but the Technics EAH-AZ100 earbuds are an exception. These are perhaps the best-sounding earbuds out there, offering excellently clear high frequencies and tight, deep bass. It's not surprising that they sound so good. The preceding EAH-AZ80 earbuds were considered to be among the best-sounding earbuds on the market. For the EAH-AZ100 earbuds, Technics redesigned the drivers for a punchier, more neutral sound. Even most audiophiles will appreciate how they sound out of the box for a pair of wireless earbuds, and they support a solid EQ that can help users dial in the sound to their preferences. The earbuds have a sleek and stylish build and a small and portable charging case. Perhaps their biggest downside is that they're not quite the most comfortable earbuds out there. I found that they didn't stay in my ears as well as some others, but most will find that they're comfortable enough to listen for longer sessions. The headphones are built for high-res listening with LDAC support, and they have Bluetooth multipoint with up to three simultaneous connections, beating the two connections that most headphones support. The Technics EAH-AZ100's noise-cancelation is good, but not as high-quality as the Apple AirPods Pro, Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, or Sony WF-1000XM5. Still, they can effectively cut out most noise from a plane engine or a busy street, so the noise-cancelation is not subpar. Who they're for: The Technics EAH-AZ100 earbuds are for those who want a pair of earbuds and prioritize audio quality above all else. Their noise-cancelation less impressive than others, but it's still quite good. They're also not as comfortable as some earbuds with stems, but most will find that they're comfortable enough for most listening sessions. If you care most about getting a neutral and accurate audio response and want earbuds, these are the way to go. Who should look elsewhere: If you're looking for a more well-rounded pair of earbuds, there are others that don't sound quite as good but have a more comfortable fit and better noise-cancelation. Additionally, the Technics EAH-AZ100 earbuds are a little expensive, so if you're on a tight budget, it might be worth looking elsewhere. Technics EAH-AZ100 tech specs: Form factor: In-ear | Weight: .21 oz (5.9 g; per earbud) | Battery life: 12 hours | Frequency response: 20Hz - 40kHz | Bluetooth: Yes (5.3) SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3 | Wired option(s): N/A | Noise-cancelation: Yes | Driver type: 10mm dynamic Read More Show Expert Take Show less
Show less View now at Amazon Why we like them: The Edifier Stax Spirit S3 are the company's closed-back take on planar magnetic headphones. Planar magnetic headphones use different metals and methods of sound transmission than the dynamic drivers you commonly find in consumer headphones. They're well known for their excellent clarity and detail in the high end, and many audio brands have been gravitating toward them over the past few years. While they were initially relatively expensive, they've been getting cheaper, making the awesome new technology more accessible. These headphones deliver a smooth, clear, and highly enjoyable listening experience, adding dimension and detail to any song you listen to, wired or wireless, thanks to the planar magnetic drivers. Compared to headphones with large dynamic drivers, the Stax Spirit S3 delivers a smoother sound that's accurate with very little harmonic distortion, even at louder volumes. Because these are closed-back planar magnetic headphones, the soundstage is not as open, airy, or spacious as open-back planar magnetic headphones. The trade-off is that you can block outside noise, so you won't hear all of the sounds around you when you listen. Who they're for: If you're interested in planar magnetic headphones but don't want to spend what many of them cost, then the Edifier Stax Spirit S3 headphones are worth considering for their detailed sound and high-res support. Who should look elsewhere: If you want more well-rounded headphones better suited for everyday life, these headphones probably aren't for you. They don't have noise-cancelation, so they aren't best for people who want headphones for commuting or traveling. Also, they don't sound as good as more expensive planar magnetic headphones, but they still sound excellent, especially for wireless headphones. So, if you're willing to spend a lot more on a pair of planar magnetic headphones, then you can get headphones that sound better than these. Edifier Stax Spirit S3 tech specs: Form factor: Over-ear | Weight: 11.6 oz (329 g) | Battery life: 60+ hours | Frequency response: 20Hz - 40kHz | Bluetooth: Yes (5.2) SBC, aptX Standard, Adaptive, HD | Wired option(s): 3.5mm headphone jack | Noise-cancelation: No | Driver type: 70 x 89mm planar magnetic Pros Detailed and responsive audio
Comfortable fit
Reasonably priced planar magnetic headphones Cons Heavy
No noise-cancelation Battery Life Rated up to 80 hours Noise Canceling No Multipoint Yes Headphone Type Over-ear wireless headphones Water-Resistant No IP rating Edifier Stax Spirit S3 Best affordable planar magnetic headphones Why we like them: The Edifier Stax Spirit S3 are the company's closed-back take on planar magnetic headphones. Planar magnetic headphones use different metals and methods of sound transmission than the dynamic drivers you commonly find in consumer headphones. They're well known for their excellent clarity and detail in the high end, and many audio brands have been gravitating toward them over the past few years. While they were initially relatively expensive, they've been getting cheaper, making the awesome new technology more accessible. These headphones deliver a smooth, clear, and highly enjoyable listening experience, adding dimension and detail to any song you listen to, wired or wireless, thanks to the planar magnetic drivers. Compared to headphones with large dynamic drivers, the Stax Spirit S3 delivers a smoother sound that's accurate with very little harmonic distortion, even at louder volumes. Because these are closed-back planar magnetic headphones, the soundstage is not as open, airy, or spacious as open-back planar magnetic headphones. The trade-off is that you can block outside noise, so you won't hear all of the sounds around you when you listen. Who they're for: If you're interested in planar magnetic headphones but don't want to spend what many of them cost, then the Edifier Stax Spirit S3 headphones are worth considering for their detailed sound and high-res support. Who should look elsewhere: If you want more well-rounded headphones better suited for everyday life, these headphones probably aren't for you. They don't have noise-cancelation, so they aren't best for people who want headphones for commuting or traveling. Also, they don't sound as good as more expensive planar magnetic headphones, but they still sound excellent, especially for wireless headphones. So, if you're willing to spend a lot more on a pair of planar magnetic headphones, then you can get headphones that sound better than these. Edifier Stax Spirit S3 tech specs: Form factor: Over-ear | Weight: 11.6 oz (329 g) | Battery life: 60+ hours | Frequency response: 20Hz - 40kHz | Bluetooth: Yes (5.2) SBC, aptX Standard, Adaptive, HD | Wired option(s): 3.5mm headphone jack | Noise-cancelation: No | Driver type: 70 x 89mm planar magnetic Read More Show Expert Take Show less
What are the tariffs in the U.S.?
The recent U.S. tariffs on imports from countries like China, Vietnam, and India aim to boost domestic manufacturing but are likely to drive up prices on consumer electronics. Products like smartphones, laptops, and TVs may become more expensive as companies rethink global supply chains and weigh the cost of shifting production.
CNET: Tariff Pricing Tracker: We're Watching 11 Products You Might Need to Buy
Headphones and wearable devices, which are predominantly manufactured in these regions, are now subject to tariffs as high as 54% on Chinese imports and 46% on Vietnamese goods. As a result, consumers may see price increases of approximately 20% on these items.
Manufacturers are exploring options like relocating production to countries with lower tariffs, but such shifts are complex and may not provide immediate relief. In the short term, shoppers should anticipate higher costs for headphones and wearables due to these trade policies.
Right now, it looks like some tech may be exempt from the issued tariffs, but since it's always changing and developing, we are keeping an eye on it and will update you on the latest.
Also: Tariff exemptions for electronics offer a break for tech - but not for long
What are the best headphones for music? The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 are a great option for people who want to hear more out of their music. You can listen in high-resolution clarity for hours on end and use them for low-latency gaming, plus they double as headphones for professional use. To see how they stack up, here is a summary of the best headphones for music. Headphones Price Type Connectivity options Bluetooth codecs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 $219 Over-ear Bluetooth, 3.5mm jack SBC, AAC, LDAC Sony WH-1000XM6 $450 Over-ear Bluetooth, 3.5mm jack SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3 Bowers and Wilkins Px7 S3 $449 Over-ear Bluetooth, 3.5mm jack, USB-C SBC, AAC, aptX Standard, Lossless, HD, Adaptive Technics EAH-AZ100 $300 In-ear Bluetooth SBC, AAC, LDAC, LC3 Edifier Stax Spirit S3 $348 Over-ear Bluetooth, 3.5mm jack SBC, aptX Standard, HD, Adaptive Show more
Which headphones for music are right for you? Headphone experiences are personal and subjective. What works for you may not work for the next person, and vice versa. Some options, like the Sony WH-1000XM6 and Bowers and Wilkins Px7 S3, are extremely commuter-friendly, while the Edifier Stax Spirit S3 aren't. Choose these headphones... If you want... Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 Simple studio headphones that can be used for podcasting, recording, and listening to music. Sony WH-1000XM6 Everyday headphones with great sound and industry-leading noise cancellation. Bowers and Wilkins Px7 S3 Casual, everyday headphones with impeccable sound and a stylish design. Technics EAH-AZ100 True wireless earbuds with a compact design and big, enjoyable sound. Edifier Stax Spirit S3 An entry-level pair of planar magnetic headphones. Show more
Factors to consider when choosing a pair of music headphones I've spent the last year testing 25 different headphones. Through my testing, I've tried decent headphones, while others have given me a listening experience that keeps me up at night. Although sound quality is highly subjective, there are some objective measures I considered before curating this list. Price: For some people, price is the first factor they consider when buying a pair of headphones. This is understandable, as spending hundreds of dollars on headphones isn't feasible for everyone. I included headphones that range from $70 to $400.
For some people, price is the first factor they consider when buying a pair of headphones. This is understandable, as spending hundreds of dollars on headphones isn't feasible for everyone. I included headphones that range from $70 to $400. Drivers: Simply put, headphone drivers are the speakers inside the ear cups that convert electrical signals into sound. Other components like magnets, coils, and diaphragms also contribute to sound creation and movement. Drivers range in size, but many dynamic drivers are between 30mm and 45mm in diameter. Bigger driver size doesn't always mean better sound, but it usually means deeper bass response and, sometimes, more distortion.
Simply put, headphone drivers are the speakers inside the ear cups that convert electrical signals into sound. Other components like magnets, coils, and diaphragms also contribute to sound creation and movement. Drivers range in size, but many dynamic drivers are between 30mm and 45mm in diameter. Bigger driver size doesn't always mean better sound, but it usually means deeper bass response and, sometimes, more distortion. Form factor: Headphones come in different form factors: Over-ear, on-ear, true wireless, and in-ear monitors. I included many over-ear options because these headphones create a seal around your ears to better immerse you in the music you listen to. Over-ear headphones offer a realistic soundstage, more comfort, and longer battery life. However, over-ear headphones can be bulky and cumbersome.
Headphones come in different form factors: Over-ear, on-ear, true wireless, and in-ear monitors. I included many over-ear options because these headphones create a seal around your ears to better immerse you in the music you listen to. Over-ear headphones offer a realistic soundstage, more comfort, and longer battery life. However, over-ear headphones can be bulky and cumbersome. Use cases: Some headphones in this list are studio headphones, while others are traditional consumer headphones. The difference lies in their use cases and sound reproduction. Studio headphones are made for professional use, so they sound neutral and balanced. Consumer headphones are made for everyday use, so they tend to have an overemphasized bass response and noise-canceling technology. Show more
How we test headphones Although some people are concerned with objective sound measurements that can be quantified on a graph, I spend most of my time testing headphones in real-world situations. I wear them for hours while I work at my desk to test comfort, in quiet and loud environments to test noise-cancelation, and I use them daily for weeks at a time to measure battery life. Also: How we test headphones at ZDNET in 2025 Sound is incredibly subjective, and your ears may disagree with the concrete measurements on sound curves, charts, and graphs. The only way to know if a pair of headphones works for you is to test them out yourself. I suggest you buy a pair of headphones and wear them to work, on your daily commute, and at home. Make sure to keep your receipt, as you can always return them within a retailer's refund window if you don't like them. Show more
Should I buy wired or wireless headphones? Wired and wireless headphones both have their pros and cons depending on where, how, and why you plan to use a pair of headphones. You should buy wired headphones if you have a discerning ear for music listening, as wired headphones have lower latency and can achieve higher bit rates for clearer audio quality. The number one pro of wireless headphones is the lack of wires. You don't need to be tethered to a device, and wireless headphones offer features like noise-canceling, access to voice assistants, and auto play and pause. If you plan to take your headphones on your daily commute, to work, or to the gym, you should buy wireless headphones. Show more
Should I buy open-back or closed-back headphones? Open-back headphones allow for your music to leak out of the open ear cups, offering an airy, spacious, and multidimensional listening experience. Open-back headphones can be more expensive, but their sound reproduction is more natural than closed-back headphones. Open-back headphones offer little to no protection from ambient environmental noises, so they're best for critical listening sessions in private indoor environments. I do not recommend you buy open-back headphones if you like to wear headphones in public. Closed-back headphones are closed at the back of the ear cups and make up all of the over-ear headphones options on this list. Closed-back headphones may sound less natural than open-back headphones, but they offer you protection from external noises and offer other people around you protection from your music. Most people can get more of their money's worth from closed-back headphones due to their versatility in various environments. However, music professionals and anyone who enjoys private listening at home should invest in a pair of open-back headphones. Show more
Are wired or wireless headphones better for listening to music? Listening to music over a wired connection allows you to listen to music losslessly or in hi-res. Lossless and hi-res audio files have not been compressed, and you can listen to the songs as closely as how they originally sounded when recorded in the studio. Uncompressed audio files are large and require lots of data, and Bluetooth connections cannot sustain this kind of data transmission. However, many consumer headphones are compatible with upgraded Bluetooth codecs, like Qualcomm's AptX and Sony's LDAC. Still, your listening device must be compatible with these Bluetooth codecs for you to access them, and many popular smartphones in the U.S. are not. So, wired headphones are better at reproducing your favorite songs in their original form, but wireless headphones are better if portability and convenience are most important to you. Many headphones on this list can be wired or wireless so that you can get the best of both worlds. Show more
Are there alternative headphones for music worth considering?
There are plenty of other headphones on the market that are great options to listen to music with. Through my testing, these headphones are worth checking out.