Find the best headphones for music in 2026
What music lovers need:
- Balanced Sound - Accurate frequency response that reveals every detail
- Wide Soundstage - Spatial presentation that brings recordings to life
- High-Resolution Support - LDAC, aptX HD, or wired hi-res for lossless audio
- Comfort - Plush padding for long listening sessions
Best Headphones under $100 for music
Great Alternatives
These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs
Audio-Technica ATH-M20XBT Wireless Over-Ear
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout feature is an exceptional 60-hour battery life paired with 40mm dynamic drivers for full-range audio. The soft, noise-isolating earcups provide extended comfort, making them suitable for long listening sessions. These headphones are best for budget-conscious listeners who prioritize marathon battery life and basic wireless functionality over premium sound or active noise cancellation.
Marshall Major V On-Ear Wireless
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout feature is an extraordinary 100+ hours of wireless playback, powered by Bluetooth 5.3 and 40mm drivers tuned for the brand's signature sound. The rugged, foldable design enhances its portability for daily commutes and travel. This headphone is best for listeners who prioritize marathon battery life and durable build quality over premium call performance.
ChanGeek Wireless Headphones for TV Watching
Why we recommend this ▼
Its 2.4GHz RF connection provides a reliable, zero-lag wireless range up to 100 feet, making it a dedicated solution for television audio. The 48-hour battery life and lightweight, foldable design support extended, comfortable viewing sessions. This headset is best for seniors or household members who need private, high-quality TV audio without disturbing others.
Soundcore Space by Anker One Wireless Noise Canceling Over-Ear
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout feature is the adaptive noise canceling with extrastrong voice reduction, effectively blocking out crowd chatter during commutes. The headphones offer a long 40-hour battery life with ANC active, ensuring extended listening sessions. This model is best for frequent travelers and commuters who prioritize blocking out human voices and need all-day battery life.
JBL Tune 670NC Wireless Noise-Cancelling On-Ear
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout 70-hour battery life and adaptive noise cancelling make it a durable companion for extended use. The lightweight, foldable design and Smart Ambient mode enhance its practicality for on-the-go listening. This headphone is best for budget-conscious commuters and travelers who prioritize long battery life and basic noise cancellation over premium audio fidelity.
JLab JBuds Lux JBuds Lux ANC Wireless
Why we recommend this ▼
Its hybrid active noise canceling and Be Aware mode provide versatile isolation for commutes and travel. The foldable design and plush cloud foam earcups enhance portability and long-term comfort. This is best for budget-conscious commuters seeking functional ANC and situational awareness in a single, affordable package.
Aurasofix Open Ear
Why we recommend this ▼
Its open-ear design and feather-light 8g per earbud build provide exceptional comfort and situational awareness, supported by an IPX6 waterproof rating for durability. The 40-hour total battery life with a 10-hour playback per charge is a major strength for extended use away from power. This product is best for runners, cyclists, and gym-goers who need a secure, non-intrusive fit and long-lasting audio during intense physical activity.
TOZO Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling
Why we recommend this ▼
Its 60-hour battery life and hybrid ANC system with three microphones provide strong noise isolation for travel and commutes. The headphones offer a versatile wired/wireless connection and a comfortable, foldable design with protein leather ear cups. This product is best for frequent travelers and commuters who prioritize long battery life and effective noise cancellation over call quality.
Soundcore Life Q30 by Anker
Why we recommend this ▼
Its hybrid active noise cancellation with three customizable modes effectively filters out low-frequency ambient sound for focused listening. The 50-hour battery life in ANC mode and ultra-soft memory foam earcups provide exceptional endurance and comfort for long sessions. This headphone is best for commuters and office workers who need reliable noise isolation and all-day wearability without frequent charging.
EarFun K4 Kids
Why we recommend this ▼
Its 74/85/94dBA volume-limiting technology and BPA-free build prioritize child safety and hearing protection. The 90-hour battery life and colorful LED lighting modes add significant practical and playful value. This headphone is best for parents seeking a durable, long-lasting audio solution for children's entertainment and school use.
JBL Junior 470NC Noise-Canceling Wireless Over-Ear Kids
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout feature is the kid-safe maximum volume limit of under 85 dB, protecting young ears, and it's built from durable, child-friendly materials. The headphones also offer active noise cancellation and a comfortable fit for extended wear. This product is best for parents seeking a safe, robust audio solution for their children's remote learning or entertainment.
QearFun Kids
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout 60-hour battery life and parent-approved 85dB/94dB volume limiter make it a safe, long-lasting choice for children. The durable, kid-proof build with plush ear cushions ensures comfort for all-day wear, supported by a reliable Bluetooth 5.3 connection. This headphone is best for parents seeking a safe, durable audio companion for their child's school, travel, and entertainment use.
HAYLOU S40 Noise Cancelling Headphones Over Ear
Why we recommend this ▼
Its 50dB hybrid ANC and LDAC support for Hi-Res audio deliver strong noise isolation and high-quality wireless sound. The 90-hour battery life and foldable, comfortable design make it highly practical for extended use. This headphone is best for frequent travelers and commuters who need long-lasting, effective noise cancellation and clear call quality on the go.
NOUUI Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling
Why we recommend this ▼
Its hybrid ANC system blocks up to 42dB of noise and offers 70 hours of battery life with ANC off, making it a strong contender for long-haul travel. The headphones are designed for all-day comfort with memory foam ear cups and a foldable, travel-ready build. This product is best for frequent commuters and travelers who prioritize extended battery life and effective noise isolation over top-tier call quality.
Best Headphones under $250 for music
Sennheiser Momentum Noise-Canceling Wireless Over-Ear
Great Alternatives
These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs
Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 Wireless Over-Ear Closed-Back
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout feature is the powerful 45mm Stellar.45 drivers, which deliver studio-quality audio alongside adaptive noise canceling and transparency mode. The headphones also offer a unique spatial audio experience with Dolby Atmos and head tracking for immersive listening. This product is best for commuters and home users seeking premium wireless sound with high-end driver technology and immersive audio features.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7S2 Wireless Active Noise Cancelling Over Ear
Why we recommend this ▼
Its redesigned angled drive units and powerful motor system deliver exceptionally detailed audio with increased clarity. The headphones combine 30-hour battery life with a comfortable, lightweight build using technical fabrics for all-day wear. This model is best for frequent commuters and travelers who prioritize premium sound quality and effective noise cancellation during long journeys.
Sony WH-1000XM5 Noise-Canceling Wireless Over-Ear
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout feature is its class-leading active noise cancellation, powered by eight microphones and two processors to effectively filter ambient sound. The headphones also offer exceptional call clarity with four beamforming microphones and a comfortable, foldable design for all-day wear. This model is best for frequent travelers and remote workers who need reliable noise isolation and clear communication during calls.
Sennheiser Accentum Plus Wireless
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout 50-hour battery life with ANC on and Sennheiser's signature sound tuning provide a premium wireless audio experience. The inclusion of a USB-C Bluetooth adapter for low-latency connectivity and a customizable sound app offer practical versatility beyond typical headphones. This model is best for frequent travelers and commuters who need reliable, all-day noise cancellation without daily charging.
Sennheiser HD 599 Open
Why we recommend this ▼
Its open-back design and 38mm dynamic drivers deliver a natural, spatial audio experience with minimal ear pressure thanks to its large, soft ear pads. The wired connection and 50-ohm impedance make it a straightforward, high-fidelity choice for critical listening without complex amplification. This headphone is best for music enthusiasts and home studio users who prioritize detailed, open soundscapes over noise isolation or microphone quality.
Bose QuietComfort Wireless Over-Ear Active Noise-Canceling
Why we recommend this ▼
Its hybrid noise-canceling technology is highly effective, complemented by plush earcups designed for all-day comfort. The headphones offer versatile, customizable listening modes, including a dedicated Wind Block feature. This model is best for frequent travelers and commuters seeking reliable noise isolation and long-term wearability over strong call performance.
Audio-Technica ATH-S300BT ATH-S300BTBG
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout feature is a remarkable 90-hour battery life, complemented by digital hybrid noise-cancelling for effective isolation. The inclusion of a detachable cable with in-line controls adds valuable wired versatility to its Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity. This headphone is best for frequent travelers and remote workers who need all-day, uninterrupted audio with reliable call quality.
Sennheiser HD 560S Wired Over-the-Ear Audiophile
Why we recommend this ▼
Its angled transducers and open-back design deliver a natural, reference-grade soundstage with exceptional detail retrieval from 6 Hz to 38 kHz. The 240-gram weight and velour earpads provide genuine all-day comfort for extended listening sessions. This model is best for audio engineers and critical listeners who prioritize analytical sound accuracy over features like noise isolation or a microphone.
Sony ULT Wear Wireless Over-Ear Noise-Canceling
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout feature is the dedicated ULT button for a significant bass boost, powered by 40mm drivers with neodymium magnets. The dual-sensor noise canceling and 30-hour battery life make it a practical choice for extended travel or commutes. This headphone is best for listeners who prioritize powerful, customizable bass over call quality, given its weak microphone performance.
Marshall Monitor III A.N.C Wireless Over-Ear Noise-Canceling
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout feature is a rugged, foldable design paired with a marathon 70-hour battery life with ANC enabled. The inclusion of Dynamic Loudness, which automatically adjusts volume and EQ based on your environment, provides a uniquely adaptive listening experience. These headphones are best for frequent travelers and commuters who prioritize durability and all-day battery life over top-tier call quality.
Audio-Technica ATH-SR5BTWH Audio Technica Hi-Res Wireless On-Ear
Why we recommend this ▼
Its 45mm drivers deliver Hi-Res audio with a 5Hz-40kHz range, supported by a substantial 38-hour battery life for extended listening. The headphones offer convenient NFC touch pairing and can remember connections to eight different devices. They are best suited for studio engineers and audiophiles who prioritize detailed sound and wireless versatility over call quality.
Beats Studio Pro by Dr. Dre Wireless Over-Ear
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout 40-hour battery life and effective ANC make it a reliable companion for travel and daily commutes. The personalized spatial audio with head tracking provides a uniquely immersive listening experience for movies and music. These headphones are best for gamers and commuters who prioritize long battery life and spatial audio features over critical studio monitoring.
Beats Solo by Dr. Dre 4 Wireless On-Ear
Why we recommend this ▼
Its 50-hour battery life and ultralight 213g design make it exceptionally portable for all-day use. The inclusion of Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking provides an immersive, theater-like experience for movies and supported music. These headphones are best for commuters and casual listeners who prioritize long battery life and comfort over critical studio monitoring.
FiiO JT7 Over-Ear Planar Magnetic
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout feature is the large, self-developed 95x86mm planar magnetic driver, which delivers a wide soundstage and powerful bass from a remarkably lightweight 318g, foldable design. The proprietary F.E.S. elastic support system enhances diaphragm elasticity for deeper, more dynamic bass, while its 92dB/mW sensitivity makes it easy to drive with portable devices. This headphone is best for audiophiles and critical listeners seeking a detailed, spacious sound signature for home listening or travel, given its high portability.
JBL Live 770NC Wireless Over-Ear
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout feature is True Adaptive Noise Cancelling with Smart Ambient mode, allowing you to block out distractions or stay aware of your surroundings. The inclusion of Bluetooth 5.3 with LE Audio ensures high-quality, efficient wireless streaming, and the 65-hour battery life is exceptional for long listening sessions. These headphones are best for commuters and home listeners who prioritize long battery life and adaptive noise control over absolute audiophile sound quality.
Best Headphones under $500 for music
Sony WH-1000XM6 Best Wireless Noise Cancelling
Great Alternatives
These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs
Bowers & Wilkins PX7S3 Wireless Noise-Canceling Over-Ear
Why we recommend this ▼
Its eight-microphone active noise cancellation system and support for aptX Lossless codec deliver high-fidelity wireless audio with effective isolation. The headphones offer an elegant design and up to 30 hours of playback, prioritizing comfort for extended wear. This model is best for commuters and travelers seeking premium, detailed sound quality and clear call performance in a stylish package.
Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Closed-Back
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout feature is the enhanced active noise cancellation and a 20-hour battery life, housed in a premium build with a knit mesh canopy for comfort. The seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem and the Digital Crown control for audio are significant differentiators. These headphones are best for Apple users seeking a high-fidelity, all-day listening experience for both focused work and immersive music.
Sennheiser HDB 630 Around-the-ear
Why we recommend this ▼
Its 42mm drivers and included BTD 700 adapter deliver high-resolution audio via aptX Adaptive Bluetooth or lossless 24-bit/96kHz USB-C. The 60-hour battery life and lightweight design with low clamping force ensure extended, comfortable listening sessions. This headphone is best for listeners who prioritize long-term comfort and high-fidelity wireless audio over top-tier call quality.
Skullcandy Aviator 900 ANC Wireless Over-Ear
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout 60-hour battery life and premium 6-microphone adaptive noise cancellation provide exceptional endurance and sound isolation. The inclusion of THX Spatial Audio with head tracking offers a uniquely immersive listening experience for movies and games. This headphone is best for commuters and multimedia enthusiasts who prioritize long battery life and immersive, cinematic audio over critical studio monitoring.
Sennheiser HD 600 Audiophile Open-Back Dynamic Wired Headphones Over Ear
Why we recommend this ▼
Its 300-ohm drivers and open-back design deliver a famously neutral and natural soundstage, ideal for critical listening. The lightweight 258g build and plush ear pads provide extended comfort for long sessions. This model is best for studio engineers and audiophiles seeking a precise, analytical reference headphone for mixing and mastering.
JBL Tour One M3 Smart Tx Over-Ear
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout feature is the built-in Auracast transmitter, enabling universal audio sharing alongside 8-mic adaptive noise cancelling for superior isolation. The 70-hour battery life and Bluetooth 5.3 with LDAC support ensure reliable, high-resolution wireless listening across devices. These headphones are best for frequent travelers and commuters who prioritize long battery life and versatile connectivity over gaming performance.
Bose QuietComfort 884367-1200
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout feature is its powerful noise cancellation, which combines active and passive technology to effectively block out distractions. The plush earcup cushions and padded headband provide exceptional comfort for extended listening sessions, supported by a 24-hour battery life. This product is best for frequent travelers and commuters who prioritize a quiet, comfortable environment over absolute audiophile-grade music reproduction.
Cisco 730 Wireless Noise-Canceling Headset 730 Wireless Noise-Canceling
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout feature is deep integration with Cisco applications and devices, making it a seamless extension of a Cisco-based office infrastructure. The headset also offers 22-hour battery life and adaptive active noise cancellation using four microphones for clear calls. This product is best for enterprise users and remote workers who rely heavily on Cisco Webex and other Cisco collaboration tools for daily communication.
Shure AONIC AONIC 50 Gen 2 Wireless Over-Ear ANC
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout 40-hour battery life and new proprietary DSP mode for personalized audio are backed by Shure's studio-grade 50mm drivers. The improved Environmental Mode offers excellent spatial awareness, a key feature for situational listening. These are best for audiophiles and musicians who prioritize long-lasting, customizable sound over top-tier call quality.
Beyerdynamic MMX 330 PRO Open-Back Gaming
Why we recommend this ▼
Its open-back design and STELLER.45 drivers create a wide, natural soundstage for precise positional audio in games. The headset is built in Germany with durable, serviceable construction and features soft, breathable velour ear pads for long sessions. This is best for competitive PC gamers who prioritize audio accuracy and long-term comfort over noise isolation.
Dell WL7024 Pro Premium Wireless ANC
Why we recommend this ▼
Its AI-powered active noise cancellation is specifically tuned to isolate human voices for clear calls, backed by an impressive 80-hour battery life. The headset offers dual connectivity via Bluetooth 5.3 and a USB-C receiver, and its leatherette headband with a flex sensor prioritizes all-day comfort. This is best for remote professionals who need a certified, long-lasting headset for marathon video conferences on Teams or Zoom.
Audeze MM-100 Professional Wired Open-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic
Why we recommend this ▼
Its 90mm planar magnetic drivers and open-back design deliver a precise 20Hz-25kHz frequency response with exceptionally low distortion for critical listening. The lightweight magnesium and steel chassis with gel-filled earpads ensures all-day comfort during extended studio sessions. This headphone is best for audio engineers and producers who require a neutral, detailed reference for mixing and mastering.
Technics EAH-A800 EAH-A800 Noise-Canceling Wireless Over-Ear
Why we recommend this ▼
Its dual hybrid active noise cancellation and eight-mic system deliver exceptional call clarity and immersive quiet. The 50-hour battery life with ANC on and support for Hi-Res Audio via LDAC provide a premium, long-lasting listening experience. These headphones are best for commuters and audiophiles who prioritize high-fidelity sound and all-day comfort during travel.
Best Headphones under $1,000 for music
Bowers & Wilkins PX8 Noise-Canceling Wireless Over-Ear
Great Alternatives
These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs
Audeze LCD-2 Classic LCD-2 Classic Over-Ear Open Back Headphone
Why we recommend this ▼
Its 100mm planar magnetic drivers deliver exceptional bass response and realistic sound, supported by a warm, vintage-inspired tonality. The handcrafted build in California includes a steel suspension headband and glass-infused nylon rings for durability and improved audio quality. This headphone is best for studio professionals and audiophiles seeking a detailed, warm reference sound for critical listening and mixing.
Focal Bathys Noise-Canceling Wireless Over-Ear
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout feature is a built-in DAC and amplifier, enabling high-resolution 24-bit/192 kHz wired audio playback that's rare for wireless headphones. The 40mm aluminum-magnesium drivers and active noise cancellation provide precise, dynamic sound for over 30 hours of wireless use. This product is best for audiophiles who prioritize high-fidelity sound in a portable, wireless package for travel or home listening.
Bang & Olufsen Cisco 980 Wireless Over-Ear
Why we recommend this ▼
Its six-mic array and active voice adjustment ensure crystal-clear call quality, making it a top choice for remote professionals. The adaptive active noise canceling and transparency mode effectively manage environmental sound for focused work or situational awareness. This headset is best for hybrid workers who need reliable, high-fidelity audio for video conferencing and all-day calls.
Bowers & Wilkins PX8S2 Over-Ear Wireless
Why we recommend this ▼
Its 40mm carbon cone drivers and dedicated DAC deliver high-resolution audio with exceptional clarity, while the Nappa leather and memory foam earpads provide a premium, comfortable fit. The inclusion of Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX Lossless support ensures high-quality wireless streaming for compatible devices. These headphones are best for audiophiles seeking a luxurious, over-ear listening experience with top-tier build quality and sound fidelity.
Focal Bathys Bathys Noise-Canceling Wireless Over-Ear
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout feature is a built-in DAC and amplifier, enabling high-resolution 24-bit/192 kHz audio playback for audiophile-grade wireless sound. The headphones also offer over 30 hours of battery life and active noise cancellation for extended, immersive listening sessions. This product is best for discerning listeners who prioritize studio-quality audio fidelity in a portable, wireless package.
Beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO MKII Premium Tesla Studio Headphones for Mixing
Why we recommend this ▼
Its open-back design and powerful Tesla.45 drivers provide exceptional detail and a wide soundstage for critical listening. The 376g build features industry-leading German craftsmanship and superb comfort for long sessions. These headphones are best for audio engineers and producers who require precise monitoring for mixing and mastering tasks.
Audeze LCD-2 Open-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic
Why we recommend this ▼
Its planar magnetic drivers deliver exceptional clarity and a wide frequency response with ultra-low distortion, housed in a handcrafted build with Padauk wood rings. The open-back design and plush leather earcups provide both an immersive soundstage and supreme comfort for extended sessions. This headphone is best for critical listeners and audio engineers who require detailed, neutral sound for professional monitoring and music mastering.
Fosi Audio i5 Open-Back Planar Magnetic
Why we recommend this ▼
Its standout 97mm planar magnetic drivers and 44 neodymium magnets deliver a fast, detailed soundstage with studio-grade accuracy. The handcrafted walnut wood chambers and CNC-milled aluminum frame provide a durable, luxurious build that prioritizes acoustic integrity. This headphone is best for critical listening and studio monitoring where an expansive, holographic soundstage is required.
Monolith by Monoprice Monolith M1570C Over the Ear Closed Back Design Planar Headphones Removable
Why we recommend this ▼
Its 106mm planar drivers deliver a wide soundstage and deep bass from a closed-back design. The excellent audio isolation keeps external noise out, making it ideal for critical listening environments. These headphones are best for studio engineers and audiophiles who prioritize detailed sound reproduction over portability.
HiFiMan Arya Stealth Magnet Version Full-Size Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Headphone for
Why we recommend this ▼
Its planar magnetic drivers with Stealth Magnets and a nanometer-thickness diaphragm deliver exceptionally low distortion and a full-range, accurate sound. The 430g build uses a high-quality metal headband and special plastic for a durable yet comfortable open-back design with user-replaceable cables. This headphone is best for critical listeners and audiophiles who prioritize precise sonic detail and an expansive soundstage over portability or microphone use.