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10 Best Headphones 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
Sony WH-1000XM6 The Best Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones, HD NC Processor QN3, 12 Microphones, Adaptive NC Optimizer, Mastered by Engineers, Studio-Quality, 30-Hour Battery, Midnight Blue
The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are a strong choice for anyone looking for high-quality wireless headphones with top-notch noise cancellation. They use advanced processors and 12 microphones to block out background sounds very effectively, making them great for travel, work, or noisy places. Sound quality is excellent, with clear and balanced audio designed with input from professional audio engineers, so music and voices sound natural and detailed.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,452
Noise Cancellation
Sound Quality
Comfort and Fit
Most important from
1903 reviews
#2
Bose QuietComfort Headphones - Wireless Bluetooth Headphones, Active Over Ear Noise Cancelling and Mic, USB-C Charging, Deep Bass, Up to 24 Hours of Playtime, Sandstone
The Bose QuietComfort Wireless Headphones are over-ear headphones designed to offer strong noise cancellation, making them a great choice for anyone wanting to block out outside noise during travel, work, or relaxation. They feature active noise cancellation combined with passive sound isolation, and offer two listening modes—Quiet and Aware—so you can either immerse yourself fully in music or stay alert to your surroundings when needed. Sound quality is high with balanced armature drivers and an adjustable equalizer via the Bose app, letting you customize bass, mids, and treble to your liking. Battery life is impressive, providing up to 24 hours of wireless playtime with a fast USB-C charge option that adds 2.5 hours after just 15 minutes.
Rating
9.7
Noise Cancellation
Comfort and Fit
Sound Quality
Most important from
17154 reviews
#3
Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones, Pro-Level Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency Mode, Personalized Spatial Audio, USB-C Charging, Bluetooth Headphones for iPhone - Blue
The Apple AirPods Max are premium over-ear wireless headphones designed to deliver high-quality sound with their Apple-designed dynamic drivers and advanced computational audio. They excel in sound clarity and offer personalized spatial audio that adapts to your ear shape, creating an immersive listening experience. The headphones feature pro-level active noise cancellation that effectively reduces background noise, while Transparency mode allows you to stay aware of your surroundings when needed. Battery life is solid, providing up to 20 hours of listening or talk time, which covers most day-to-day uses comfortably.
Rating
9.4
Sound Quality (Frequency Response, Drivers)
Comfort and Fit
Battery Life
Most important from
24292 reviews
Top 10 Best Headphones 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
Sony WH-1000XM6 The Best Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones, HD NC Processor QN3, 12 Microphones, Adaptive NC Optimizer, Mastered by Engineers, Studio-Quality, 30-Hour Battery, Midnight Blue
Sony WH-1000XM6 The Best Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones, HD NC Processor QN3, 12 Microphones, Adaptive NC Optimizer, Mastered by Engineers, Studio-Quality, 30-Hour Battery, Midnight Blue
Type: Over Ear
Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation
Comfort and Fit: Wide, soft headband, adjustable ear cups
Wireless vs. Wired: Wireless with wired option
Battery Life: Up to 30 hours per charge
Additional Features: Adaptive noise cancel, clear calls, foldable
Chosen by 1452 this week
Bose QuietComfort Headphones - Wireless Bluetooth Headphones, Active Over Ear Noise Cancelling and Mic, USB-C Charging, Deep Bass, Up to 24 Hours of Playtime, Sandstone
Bose QuietComfort Headphones - Wireless Bluetooth Headphones, Active Over Ear Noise Cancelling and Mic, USB-C Charging, Deep Bass, Up to 24 Hours of Playtime, Sandstone
Type (Over-ear, On-ear, In-ear): Over Ear
Sound Quality (Frequency Response, Drivers): Freq Response 20000 Hz, Balanced Driver
Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation
Wireless vs. Wired: Wireless, detachable cable for wired use
Battery Life: 24 Hours
Comfort and Fit: Plush cushions, padded headband
Microphone and Controls: Inline mic, push button, Bose App
Durability and Build Quality: Leather, plastic, nylon/aluminum case
Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones, Pro-Level Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency Mode, Personalized Spatial Audio, USB-C Charging, Bluetooth Headphones for iPhone - Blue
Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones, Pro-Level Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency Mode, Personalized Spatial Audio, USB-C Charging, Bluetooth Headphones for iPhone - Blue
Type (Over-ear, On-ear, In-ear): Over Ear
Sound Quality (Frequency Response, Drivers): Apple-designed dynamic driver
Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation
Wireless vs. Wired: Wireless and Wired
Battery Life: Up to 20 hours
Comfort and Fit: Memory foam cushions, breathable headband
Microphone and Controls: Nine mics; Digital Crown; Noise button; Siri
Durability and Build Quality: Sturdy, premium build
Beats Studio Pro - Premium Wireless Over-Ear Headphones- Up to 40-Hour Battery Life, Active Noise Cancelling, USB-C Lossless Audio, Apple & Android Compatible - Deep Brown
Beats Studio Pro - Premium Wireless Over-Ear Headphones- Up to 40-Hour Battery Life, Active Noise Cancelling, USB-C Lossless Audio, Apple & Android Compatible - Deep Brown
Type (Over-ear, On-ear, In-ear): Over Ear
Sound Quality (Frequency Response, Drivers): 20-20000 Hz, Dynamic Driver
Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation
Wireless vs. Wired: Wireless Bluetooth 5.3, Wired 3.5mm
Battery Life: 40h, 10-min charge = 4h play
Comfort and Fit: Over-ear, faux leather cushions
Microphone and Controls: Voice mics, touch & buttons, Siri
Durability and Build Quality: Foldable, fabric case, faux leather
JBL Tune 720BT - Wireless Over-Ear Headphones with JBL Pure Bass Sound, Bluetooth 5.3, Up to 76H Battery Life and Speed Charge, Lightweight, Comfortable and Foldable Design (Black)
JBL Tune 720BT - Wireless Over-Ear Headphones with JBL Pure Bass Sound, Bluetooth 5.3, Up to 76H Battery Life and Speed Charge, Lightweight, Comfortable and Foldable Design (Black)
Type: Over Ear
Sound Quality: JBL Pure Bass Sound
Comfort and Fit: Lightweight and foldable
Wireless vs. Wired: Wireless
Battery Life: 76 Hours
Durability and Build Quality: Plastic build
Additional Features: Bluetooth 5.3, on-ear controls, app
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Beats Solo 4 - Wireless On-Ear Bluetooth Headphones, Up to 50-Hour Battery Life, Ultra-Lightweight Comfort, Powerful and Balanced Sound, Apple & Android Compatible - Slate Blue
Beats Solo 4 - Wireless On-Ear Bluetooth Headphones, Up to 50-Hour Battery Life, Ultra-Lightweight Comfort, Powerful and Balanced Sound, Apple & Android Compatible - Slate Blue
Type (Over-ear, On-ear, In-ear): On-Ear
Sound Quality (Frequency Response, Drivers): Frequency 1 GHz, Dynamic 5 cm driver
Noise Cancellation: Sound Isolation
Wireless vs. Wired: Wireless Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C, 3.5mm
Battery Life: 50 Hours, 10-min charge = 5 hours
Comfort and Fit: Ergonomic, adjustable headband, UltraPlush cushions
Microphone and Controls: Mic included, Button, Touch, Voice, Siri
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Headphones, Wireless Headphones with Spatial Audio, Over Ear Noise Cancelling with Mic, Up to 24 Hours of Playtime, Deep Plum - Limited Edition Color
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Headphones, Wireless Headphones with Spatial Audio, Over Ear Noise Cancelling with Mic, Up to 24 Hours of Playtime, Deep Plum - Limited Edition Color
Type (Over-ear, On-ear, In-ear): Over Ear
Sound Quality (Frequency Response, Drivers): Freq Response 20000 Hz, Custom Driver
Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation
Wireless vs. Wired: Wireless Bluetooth 5.3, Wired 3.5 mm
Battery Life: 24 Hours
Comfort and Fit: Soft cushions, good headband, 8.8 oz
Microphone and Controls: Built-in mics, touch gestures, app control
Durability and Build Quality: Plastic, sturdy build
Bose New QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Headphones (2nd Gen), Wireless Headphones with Spatial Audio, Over Ear Noise Cancelling with Mic, Up to 30 Hours of Play time, Black
Bose New QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Headphones (2nd Gen), Wireless Headphones with Spatial Audio, Over Ear Noise Cancelling with Mic, Up to 30 Hours of Play time, Black
Type (Over-ear, On-ear, In-ear): Over Ear
Sound Quality (Frequency Response, Drivers): Dynamic Driver
Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation
Wireless vs. Wired: Wireless, Wired (USB-C cable)
Battery Life: 30 Hours
Comfort and Fit: Soft cushions, balanced metal headband
Microphone and Controls: Built-in mics, App and Push controls
Durability and Build Quality: Plastic parts, fairly lightweight
Audio-Technica ATH-M50XGM Professional Monitor Headphones, Gun Metal
Audio-Technica ATH-M50XGM Professional Monitor Headphones, Gun Metal
Type: Over Ear
Sound Quality: 45mm drivers, 15 Hz to 28,000 Hz
Comfort and Fit: Professional earpads, headband, swiveling earcups
Wireless vs. Wired: Wired
Additional Features: Detachable cable, 10.2 ounces, 3.5 mm jack
#10
Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth Headphones, Personalized Spatial Audio, Sweat and Water Resistant, USB-C Charging Case, H2 Chip, Up to 30 Hours of Battery Life, Effortless Setup for iPhone
Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth Headphones, Personalized Spatial Audio, Sweat and Water Resistant, USB-C Charging Case, H2 Chip, Up to 30 Hours of Battery Life, Effortless Setup for iPhone
Type: In Ear
Sound Quality: Custom Apple driver, Adaptive EQ
Comfort and Fit: Redesigned for better fit
Noise Cancellation: Sound Isolation
Wireless vs. Wired: Wireless
Battery Life: 5 hours, 30 hours with case
Durability and Build Quality: Dust, sweat, water resistant (IP54)
Additional Features: H2 chip, Dual microphones, Siri
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Buying Guide for the Best Headphones
Choosing the right headphones can greatly improve your listening experience, whether you're enjoying music, podcasts, gaming, or taking calls. With many different types and features available, it's helpful to understand what matters most for your intended use. Think about where you'll use your headphones the most—at home, commuting, working out, or in the office. This will help you prioritize the features and specs that are most important for your comfort and enjoyment.Type (Over-ear, On-ear, In-ear)This refers to the design and how the headphones fit on or in your ears. Over-ear headphones have large ear cups that cover your ears entirely and often provide the best sound quality and noise isolation, making them great for home or studio use. On-ear headphones rest on top of your ears and can be more compact for travel, but may not block as much noise. In-ear headphones (earbuds) fit directly into your ear canal, are lightweight and highly portable—ideal for active use, like running or commuting. Choosing between these types depends on your preferences for comfort, portability, and where you'll use them most.
Sound Quality (Frequency Response, Drivers)Sound quality is what your headphones actually sound like and is influenced by technical details such as frequency response and driver size. Frequency response tells you the range of sounds the headphones can reproduce; a wider range means more detailed highs and deeper lows. Driver size can impact how much sound is produced, with larger drivers often providing better bass. For a casual listener, most modern headphones will sound good, but if you're an audiophile or enjoy high-fidelity music, look for headphones with a wide frequency range and quality drivers.
Noise CancellationThis feature reduces unwanted external sounds so you can focus on what you're listening to. Active noise cancellation (ANC) electronically cancels out background noise, while passive noise isolation relies on the headphone's physical design to block sound. ANC is great for travelers or noisy environments, while passive isolation can be sufficient for quieter places. Consider your typical listening environment when deciding how important noise cancellation is for your headphones.
Wireless vs. WiredWireless headphones connect to your devices via Bluetooth, offering the convenience of no cables, especially useful for commuting or exercising. Wired headphones rely on a physical cable and can provide better sound quality without worrying about battery life, which is ideal for desk work or high-quality audio needs. Choose based on how often you want to move around without restriction or prioritize the best audio consistency.
Battery LifeFor wireless headphones, battery life determines how long you can use them between charges. Headphones can range from a few hours to over a day of continuous use. If you plan long listening sessions or often forget to recharge, look for headphones with longer battery life or quick-charging features. If you use headphones only briefly or near a charger, shorter battery life may not be a problem.
Comfort and FitHow comfortable the headphones feel during long periods of use is important, especially if you wear them all day or during workouts. Features like adjustable headbands, padded ear cups, or customizable ear tips make a big difference. Try to pick headphones with comfort features that match your intended use: lightweight options for sports, padding for all-day wear, or sweat-resistant materials for exercise.
Microphone and ControlsIf you plan to use your headphones for calls or voice commands, having a quality built-in microphone and easily accessible controls is crucial. Some headphones have on-cable or on-device buttons to change volume, skip tracks, or answer calls. Make sure the controls and microphone quality match your needs, especially if you anticipate frequent calls or interactions without taking your device out.
Durability and Build QualityDurability refers to how well the headphones can withstand daily use, including drops, moisture, and general wear. Look for features like reinforced cables, water resistance, or sturdy materials if you plan to use your headphones in tough conditions. If you’re mostly using them at a desk or at home, this may be less of a priority, but for portable or gym use, build quality becomes much more important.