In 2025, having headphones or earbuds is crucial. There are countless choices in different shapes, sizes, styles, colors, and price points. You can effortlessly select a random pair online and discover that they function adequately.

Nevertheless, if you’re seeking more than merely “acceptable,” investing in high-quality headphones is a smart decision. After extensive listening sessions, we have pinpointed the finest models, ranging from the new Sony XM6 headphones to renowned classics from Bose, Beats, and Apple.

How to select the best headphones

There is no definitive “best” product. Premium audio brands provide various product tiers, each presenting different value, hardware, and noise cancellation. The ideal headphones or earbuds are contingent on personal tastes and intended application. Some individuals favor over-ear headphones, while others prefer earbuds. Gym enthusiasts might seek waterproof materials and open earbuds, whereas frequent flyers may emphasize battery life, comfort, and portability. Music aficionados and audiophiles may invest in features such as custom equalizers, spatial audio, or exceptional noise cancellation.

To aid you, we have evaluated many headphones. Here, you will find the top headphones of 2025 based on noise cancellation, music quality, price, and wired connections.

What about wired headphones?

Our focus was on the best wireless headphones, since they are more convenient for the majority of users. If opting for wired, we suggest the Marshall Mode earbuds.

Other headphones we have evaluated

Recently, we assessed the JBL Tour One M3 headphones and Skullcandy Method 360 ANC, which may be included in future updates. We also evaluated the Marshall Major V and Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 headphones. Both offered exceptional sound and user-friendly equalizers but did not make our final selection. The Major V’s battery life claims were accurate, but they became uncomfortable after several hours, and their ANC was subpar for the price point. The B&W headphones showcased great design and sound quality, yet their ANC was mediocre. For $399, the Sony XM5 provides a more balanced performance of sound and ANC.

We have also assessed the Sonos Ace and Dyson OnTrac headphones. Although we appreciated their sound quality and noise cancellation, they were excluded due to their steep prices.

In the testing pipeline

We are currently evaluating more budget-friendly noise-cancelling earbuds and headphones for upcoming updates.