With the dawn of 2025, it’s the perfect time to upgrade your audio experience. Whether you’re looking for unparalleled noise-canceling, superior sound quality, or a great budget-friendly option, our curated list of the best headphones of 2025 has something for everyone.
We’ve spent countless hours testing and comparing various models across different categories—noise-canceling, open-ear, workout, and more. Every headphone and earbud on this list has undergone rigorous evaluation to ensure it delivers value for its price.
Our top picks include options for all budgets, focusing on high-quality models starting under $100 and extending to premium devices priced above $500. Recent additions like the Sony MDR-M1 wired headphones and Noble Fokus Apollo earbuds showcase innovative designs and performance upgrades.
Our Top Picks for 2025
Best Bose Noise-Canceling Headphones: Bose QuietComfort Ultra – $429 at Bose
Best Overall Noise-Canceling Headphones: Sony WH-1000XM5 – $400 at Sony
Top Budget Noise-Canceling Headphones: Earfun Wave Pro – $80 at Amazon
Best Apple Noise-Canceling Wireless Earbuds: Apple AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) – $199 at Amazon
Best Value Sony Midrange Headphones: Sony CH-720N – $150 at Amazon
Best Beats Over-Ear Headphones: Beats Studio Pro – $250 at Amazon
Best Design and Sound: Bowers & Wilkins PX8 – $554 at Amazon
Best Sound Quality (Premium): Beyerdynamic Xelento Wireless (2nd Gen) – $1,200 at B&H Photo
What Are the Best Headphones Overall?
Choosing the perfect headphones depends on your specific needs, but several models stand out:
- Best for Noise-Canceling: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones and Sony WH-1000XM5.
- Top Earbuds: Apple AirPods Pro 2 and Sony WF-1000XM5.
- Premium Sound Experience: Focal Bathys, Bowers & Wilkins PX8, and Beyerdynamic Xelento Wireless.
Whether you’re a casual listener or an audiophile, these options combine advanced technology, outstanding audio performance, and sleek designs.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Headphones
- Budget: Affordable models under $100 offer great value, but premium headphones over $200 provide better durability, features, and sound.
- Fit and Comfort: Ensure the headphones fit snugly but comfortably for extended use. For earbuds, prioritize models with customizable ear tips for a secure fit.
- Durability: Look for high-quality materials and build, especially if you plan to use them frequently or while traveling.
- Performance vs. Price: Focus on getting the best features, such as noise-canceling and sound quality, within your budget.
- Return Policy: Choose retailers with flexible return policies to test multiple models risk-free.
How We Test Headphones and Earbuds
Our team evaluates headphones based on six key criteria:
- Design: Comfort, build quality, and ease of use.
- Sound Quality: We assess bass, clarity, dynamic range, and overall performance.
- Noise-Canceling: Tested in noisy environments, including city streets.
- Features: Transparency modes, app integration, and advanced technologies.
- Voice-Calling: Clarity and background noise reduction in real-world conditions.
- Value: Balancing performance and price compared to competitors.
Other Notable Mentions
- Mark Levinson No. 5909: A luxurious option with exceptional build and sound quality ($999).
- Technics EAH-A800: A retro design with powerful bass and foldable convenience ($300).
- Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3: Superior earbuds with excellent noise canceling and secure fit ($280).
- Edifier W830NB: An affordable option with impressive sound and battery life ($80).
FAQs
Are Sony or Bose headphones better?
Both brands excel in active noise-canceling and sound quality. Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are among the top-rated, with slight differences in features and sound profiles.
Do wireless headphones sound as good as wired ones?
High-end wireless headphones now rival wired models, though audiophiles may still prefer wired options for optimal sound quality.
Is noise canceling worth it?
Absolutely! It reduces background noise, enhancing your listening experience—especially in noisy environments like planes or city streets.
From premium over-ear headphones to budget-friendly earbuds, 2025 offers something for every listener. Keep this guide handy as you explore the options, and remember: great sound is always worth the investment.
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