When it comes to headphones, wireless options offer both convenience and functionality. Unless you’re an audiophile seeking the highest hi-res sound quality achievable only with wired headphones, wireless headphones are a must-have. They not only sound great but also come with features like active noise cancellation (ANC), transparency modes, excellent call quality, Bluetooth multipoint connectivity, and more.
In this roundup, we’ll focus on over-ear wireless headphones as we continually search for the best options prioritizing comfort, audio quality, and battery life. If you’re interested, we also have a list of the best wireless earbuds.
Leading the pack is Sony’s latest WH-1000XM5, which not only dominates this list but also tops our overall best headphones list. These headphones are light, very comfortable, with exceptional noise cancellation, sound quality, and packed with premium features.
If you’re considering something different, like earbuds or a more affordable option, we’ve got you covered with a variety of additional wireless headphones for comparison.
Sony WH-1000XM5
The best wireless headphones overall
Pros
- Excellent sound
- Very good comfort
- Ultra-clear call quality
- Best-in-class noise canceling
- Very good battery life
- Hi-res compatible (wired/wireless)
- Hands-free voice assistant access
- Classy, modern design
Cons
- Fold-flat, but don’t fold up
The Sony WH-1000XM5 takes the top spot on this list and is regarded as the best overall wireless headphones, offering exceptional comfort, sound quality, and battery life. They have successfully improved upon the previous WH-1000XM4 model with a sleeker design, updated software algorithms, and more microphones for enhanced call and chat accuracy.
With features like Bluetooth multipoint connection, wear sensors, Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE) Extreme technology, and excellent battery life, the WH-1000XM5 is a standout headset that remains unmatched by competitors.
Sony WH-1000XM5
The best wireless headphones overall
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Best noise canceling
Pros
- Premium materials and design
- Excellent comfort
- Best-in-class noise canceling
- Natural-sounding transparency
- Impressive spatial audio
- Hi-res compatibility
Cons
- Tricky volume control
- ANC can’t be turned off
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones have recently claimed the top spot on this list for their unparalleled noise-canceling capabilities. With premium materials, excellent comfort, natural-sounding transparency mode, and impressive spatial audio, these headphones have become the new standard in ANC headphones.
These headphones from Bose excel at blocking out the world around you, perfect for noisy environments or when you need to focus or relax. The sound quality is top-notch, and the spatial audio support adds an immersive 3D element to your listening experience.
Though the battery life may not match some other models, the trade-off is worth it for the exceptional noise-canceling performance. The comfort, design, and quality materials make the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones a standout choice for those seeking the best noise-canceling experience.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Best noise canceling
Apple AirPods Max
Best for iPhone users
Pros
- Best-in-class ANC
- Amazing transparency mode
- Excellent build quality
- Excellent sound quality
- Top-notch call quality
Cons
- Charges via Lightning cable
- Heavy on head
The Apple AirPods Max may come with a high price tag, but for those willing to make the investment, they offer a combination of beautiful design, high-quality materials, and a feature set that will satisfy even the most discerning listener. With top-notch ANC, transparency, and call quality, these headphones are the go-to choice for iPhone users.
One standout feature of the AirPods Max is their ANC, which is considered the best-in-class among wireless headphones. The transparency mode allows for natural audio to pass through, creating a unique listening experience. The digital crown knob and dedicated ANC/transparency button provide intuitive control options, enhancing the overall user experience.
The mesh materials used for the headband and ear cushions provide exceptional comfort, though the weight of the headphones may be a drawback for some users during long listening sessions. Battery life, while not the longest, can be extended with lower volume levels and a quick charge option.
Overall, the Apple AirPods Max offer a premium audio experience for iPhone users, with excellent features and design. While they may be on the heavier side, they deliver top-of-the-line performance in terms of sound quality and ANC.
Apple AirPods Max
Best for iPhone users
Urbanista Los Angeles
Best for the eco-minded music fan
Pros
- Solar charging really works
- Secure fit
- Real-time power meter in app
- Huge 80-hour battery
Cons
- Only works under optimal conditions
- No EQ adjustments
The Urbanista Los Angeles headphones offer a unique proposition with their solar charging feature, allowing them to recharge automatically in the sun. With an 80-hour battery reserve, these headphones are a great option for eco-minded individuals, especially those in sunny areas.
In addition to solar power, the Los Angeles headphones feature competent ANC, an ambient sound mode, and complete app controls for monitoring operation and adjusting settings. The headphones support voice assistants and Bluetooth 5.0 connections, with a design that combines vegan leather and sound-canceling foam for comfort.
While the solar charging feature may be limited in its usability depending on the environment, the Los Angeles headphones provide an ambitious and clever option for users looking to reduce their environmental impact while enjoying a wireless audio experience.
Urbanista Los Angeles
Best for the eco-minded music fan
