This article has been modified for a UK audience from content first published on Mashable US.

Wired headphones are experiencing a comeback in popularity among Gen Z — and they’ve always been popular with true audiophiles — but the future of audio technology is undeniably wireless. Many contemporary devices no longer feature headphone jacks, making wireless headphones the preferred choice for the majority of users.

Let’s clarify: we’re discussing headphones, not earbuds. While earbuds offer convenience, particularly during workouts or commutes, headphones generally provide enhanced sound quality and superior noise isolation. Thanks to their over-ear design, headphones naturally minimize external noise, even without active noise cancellation. This makes them perfect for immersive listening sessions, whether you are enjoying music, podcasts, or audiobooks.

That being said, selecting the right pair of headphones can feel daunting. With countless models on the market — each providing various features tailored to different lifestyles and listening preferences — it can be hard to determine where to begin. That’s where we come in. Here’s a useful guide to understanding wireless headphones and the crucial features to consider.

How Do Wireless Headphones Function?

Most wireless headphones connect through Bluetooth, which is now the norm for pairing with smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Some models still utilize radio frequency (RF) technology, which can be more advantageous for watching TV, as RF generally has lower latency — meaning less delay between audio and video. Bluetooth performance can differ based on the version and supported audio codecs, so it’s wise to check compatibility if latency is a concern.

Key Features to Think About

Navigating headphone terminology can be challenging, so here’s a breakdown of some key features to assist you in making an informed choice:

– Bluetooth Codecs — These are software protocols that encode and decode digital audio. The codec impacts audio quality and latency. For optimal performance, especially when viewing video, look for headphones supporting Qualcomm’s aptX codecs, recognized for low latency and high-quality audio.

– Closed-Back vs. Open-Back — Closed-back headphones have sealed ear cups that block out surrounding noise and direct sound into your ears, making them perfect for commuting or loud environments. Open-back headphones allow air and sound to flow through the ear cups, providing a more natural and spacious sound; however, they may leak audio both ways. These are typically found in high-end models utilized in quieter settings.

– Drivers — These are the components inside the ear cups that generate sound. They transform electrical signals into audio. In over-ear headphones, drivers normally range from 20mm to 50mm in size. Larger drivers can often produce more powerful sound, especially in the low-frequency range.

– On-Ear vs. Over-Ear — On-ear headphones sit directly on your ears and are generally more compact and portable. Over-ear headphones cover the entire ear, delivering a more immersive experience and often better noise isolation. Over-ear models are becoming increasingly popular, especially for home or office use.

What Is Noise Cancellation?

Noise cancellation works to reduce background noise so you can concentrate on your audio. There are two varieties:

– Passive Noise Cancellation — This is achieved through the physical design of the headphones. Over-ear models inherently block out some external noise by creating a seal around your ears.

– Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) — This employs built-in microphones to identify ambient noise and generate sound waves that negate it. Some headphones also provide adjustable ANC settings, such as “transparency mode”, which allows certain sounds (like voices) to come through, keeping you aware of your environment without needing to remove your headphones.

What Are the Best Wireless Headphones?

We’ve investigated expert reviews, customer opinions, and hands-on testing to put together a list of the best wireless headphones available in 2025. Whether you seek premium audio quality, extensive battery life, or budget-friendly alternatives, there’s a pair that meets your requirements.

Explore our complete roundup of the top wireless headphones to discover your ideal match.