- Last Updated: 3/25/2023
Bluetooth wireless headphones are officially the norm with more and more mobile companies taking away the audio port. For those of us who hate jamming earbuds into our ears or just like to listen to music comfortably, picking the right set of headphones is pivotal. We look for 4 main things when it comes to wireless headphones…
Best Wireless Headphones
Sony 1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
Full Review: Sony 1000XM5
PROS:
- Killer battery! 30 Hours of playback
- Premium noise cancellation (Best-in-Class); Adaptive Sound Control detects your environment and balances the noise cancellation levels accordingly
- 3 min quick charge gets 3 hours of playback
- USB-C charge port for faster overall charging
- Premium audio quality (Best-In-Class)
- Sony Connect app for EQ adjustment
- Amazon Alexa & Google Assistant Built-In (Siri Compatible)
- The invisible controls are simple and intuitive
- 4Hz – 40kHz Frequency Response
- 5.2 Bluetooth
- Weight: 8.82 oz
CONS:
- Expensive
- Only 3 color options
Conclusion
Sony finally bumped Bose out of the #1 spot when they released the 1000XM5’s. They really didn’t need to fix what wasn’t broken in the previous models (Sony 1000XM2, 1000XM3, and 1000XM4), but somehow they succeeded again.
With improvements to the noise-cancellation and audio processing, they bumped the sound quality up to an A. They also reduced the overall weight, which makes a huge difference when you’re wearing them for long periods of time.
The biggest change was the physical design. They’re a huge departure from the design of the last 3 models, but it’s an overall improvement. Even though they have a slimmer design, the padding on the headband spans almost the full length, so there more comfortable.
The one thing we wish they would’ve done is to add a few extra color options, but who’s complaining. Even though the price is a little steep, the sound and build quality alone is well worth it.
For us to sit here and get picky about color options is a testament to their overall quality. Once you get them on, you’ll forget all about everything else, and get lost in a spectacular audio experience!
Bose QuietComfort 45 Wireless Headphones
Full Review: Bose QC 45
PROS:
- 22+ Hours of playback
- Dual-Mic rejecting and pick-up system for improved voice quality
- Great audio quality
- Bose Connect App
- Amazon Alex and Google Assistant Enabled (Siri compatible)
- 3 Levels of noise cancellation (High, Low, & Off)
- Lightest Weight: 8.5 oz
CONS:
- Expensive
- Only above-average battery life
- Only above-average noise cancellation
Conclusion
The Bose QuietComfort 45 has been “quietly” sticking around for a few years now as a Top 3 Pick. They dropped out of #1 when Sony came out of nowhere with their impressive new version of active noise-canceling headphones in the 1000XM5’s. Now they sit at a close second, but still offering some of the best sound quality on the market.
With the premium sound and build quality, you’ll forget about a little more ambient noise sneaking through. The mic quality was our favorite over any other model and performed well in call testing.
While they may be on the expensive side, their excellent noise-cancellation and sound quality make them worth the investment. Just make sure you have a comfortable chair and some snacks nearby, because you might never want to take them off.
JBL Live 660NC Wireless Headphones
Full Review: JBL Live 660NC
PROS:
- Killer Battery! 40 Hours of playback (50 Hours with ANC off!!!)
- Best value (See Price)
- Great audio quality
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Most comfortable fit
- 2-Hours fully charged
- Quick charge (10 min for 4 hours of listing)
- Seamlessly switch between devices
- Siri, Alexa, & Google compatible
- 5.0 Bluetooth Version
- Weight: 9.1 oz
CONS:
- Mic doesn’t cancel out background noise very well
- Bass can get a little messy at lower frequencies, but overall still solid
- Only above-average noise cancellation
Conclusion
THESE ARE A STEAL! At under $200, you can’t get a better set of noise-canceling headphones than the JBL Live’s. Sitting on your head like a pillow, these super-comfortable headphones will put you to sleep. Depending on your musical taste, of coarse.
JBL has always been a sneaky company when it comes to headphones. Sneaky good AND affordable, that is. With 40-hours of ANC playback and ALMOST Bose-quality sound, we rated their value at 99% for good reason.
Beats Studio3 Wireless Headphones
Full Review: Beats Studio3
PROS:
- Many colors, finish, & theme options to choose from
- 40 Hours of battery life in low power mode
- Best Bluetooth connectivity (for iPhone users)
- 360° Spacial Audio
- Bass frequencies are extended for better sounding Pop and Hip Hop music (other genres of music suffer from the higher bass levels)
CONS:
- Average sound quality
- Extremely high price compared to sound quality and durability
Conclusion
If you’re sitting there wondering why the Beats Studio3’s didn’t make the cut, you’re not alone. While Beats have always produced the COOLEST LOOKING headphones, they’ve never produced the BEST SOUNDING headphones overall.
For the price, you’re getting only above-average sound quality. On the other hand, when paired with an iPhone or other Apple product, you’re getting a few impressive features that might just make it your best choice.
Just like every other Apple product, Beats are made for compatibility with other Apple devices. One of the best Apple-only features is the 360° Spacial Audio. When they’re paired with a compatible Apple device, you get a unique and impressive audio experience.
Using it when listening to music, it doesn’t make a huge difference. On the other hand, using Spacial Audio for streaming shows and movies (from compatible services) it provides a jaw-dropping immersive experience that makes you feel like your part of the show!
The other notable Apple-only feature is the Studio3’s Apple W1 chip. It provides 40-Hour playback, low-latency, and strong Bluetooth connectivity, especially with Apple devices. Throw in a healthy set of color options and that’s some good stuff. At their new low price starting at under $200, their easily one of your best choices, especially for working out.
Best Over-Ear Headphones For Working Out
Over-ear headphones are usually reserved for commuting, traveling, office work, studying, and other casual listening, but there are some models that can be used for working out. There are even some that are specially made to get down and dirty with. Check out our top picks of the best over-ear headphones for working out and you’re guaranteed to find a set that works for you.