In order to get the most comprehensive listening experience possible, over-ear, noise-canceling headphones are likely your best option. These headphones offer features such as stellar sound quality, powerful active noise cancelation (ANC), reliable Bluetooth connections, and more. However, some companies do this better than others.
When shopping for wireless headphones, the first thing you’ll need to decide is the wear style. Do you prefer on-ear or over-ear headphones? For the purposes of this guide, we will focus on the over-ear style as that’s what most noise-canceling headphones are nowadays. Over-ear designs are much more effective at blocking sound compared to on-ear models.
Next, you’ll want to determine if you want noise cancellation or not. If you frequently use headphones in noisy environments, then active noise cancellation is a must-have feature. However, if you plan to use your headphones in quieter spaces, skipping ANC can save you money.
Consider the features that are important to you. Some features to look out for include automatic pausing, Bluetooth multipoint connectivity, companion apps, and advanced audio tools. Reading reviews will give you insights into how well these features work and if they are worth the extra cost.
Sound quality is subjective, so it’s advisable to try on a set of headphones and listen to them for a few minutes before making a purchase. Pay attention to immersive formats such as Spatial Audio, Dolby Atmos, and 360 Reality Audio, as not all headphones support these features.
When testing wireless headphones, it’s important to wear them as much as possible and test them in various scenarios. This includes listening to music and podcasts, making voice and video calls, and testing battery life. Engadget prefers to test headphones over a one- to two-week period to simulate real-world use.
Now let’s take a look at some of the top picks for wireless headphones:
1. Sony WH-1000XM5: Sony’s 1000X line has been a top pick for best wireless headphones for a long time. With the WH-1000XM5, Sony has made improvements to comfort and active noise cancellation. These headphones offer a balanced sound profile, touch controls, and a 30-hour battery life.
2. Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e: These headphones offer impressive sound quality and improved acoustics compared to the previous model. They provide a comfortable fit, effective noise cancellation, and up to 30 hours of battery life. While they lack some advanced features, the sound quality makes up for it.
3. Audio-Technica M20xBT: These affordable headphones offer a comfortable fit and up to 60 hours of battery life. They have Bluetooth multipoint connectivity and physical buttons for easy control. While they don’t have active noise cancellation, they are still a good option for those on a budget.
4. Bose QuietComfort Headphones: These headphones are nearly identical to the previous version, with the added ability to adjust ANC levels and save custom modes. They offer excellent noise cancellation, a comfortable fit, and a 24-hour battery life.
5. Technics EAH-A800: These headphones offer up to 50 hours of battery life with active noise cancellation enabled. They provide a comfortable design, good sound quality, and a range of features that justify the premium price tag.
6. Master & Dynamic MW75: These headphones feature a luxurious design made with premium materials. They offer multiple ANC modes and high-quality sound. While they come with a high price tag, they are a great choice for those looking for something beyond the standard plastic design.
In conclusion, when choosing wireless headphones, consider factors such as wear style, noise cancellation, features, and sound quality. Try to listen to the headphones before purchasing, and pay attention to immersive formats and companion apps. The top picks listed above offer a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences.
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