Best headphones 2025: the absolute best headphones money can buy

TechAudioHeadphonesBest headphones 2025: the absolute best headphones money can buyT3’s expert guide to the best headphones available right now – the best premium and luxury options you can buyWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

T3’s expert guide to the best headphones available right now – the best premium and luxury options you can buy

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

Jump to category:Best overallBest premiumBest budgetBest ANC earbudsBest comfortBest when on offerBest for sportsBest Apple headphonesBest luxury headphonesBest luxury in-ear headphonesHow we test the best headphonesHow to choose the best headphones for youReviewer panel

I’ve tried dozens of pairs of headphones over my years of testing, so when it comes to picking the best headphones – whether over-ear or in-ear options – there are stacks of amazing buys available.

There are also expert guides forthe best active noise-cancelling (ANC) headphones, thebest earbuds, thebest high-end wired-only headphones, and even thebest running headphonesif you have a specialism. In this particular guide I’ve made sure there’s something for everyone, from affordable to luxury, so know that this select list has every base covered.

December’s now upon us, which means that while the biggest sales season might be over, there are still Boxing Day deals to sniff out. If you want some great gift guides, deal spotlights and more, check out theT3 Christmas huband you’ll be sure to find some good stuff.

T3’s Top Picks

Best overallBose QC Ultra HeadphonesView at AmazonThe Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones excel in every area, from the superior construction to the gorgeous audio fidelity, and these headphones are our pick for the best pair overall.Read more belowBest premiumBowers & Wilkins PX7 S2eView at AmazonThe prestigious Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e are our pick for the best premium headphones, mostly down to their awesome performance: they’re pricey, but they’re worth every penny.Read more belowBest budgetNothing Ear (2)Check AmazonThe best budget headphones are the Nothing Ear (2). Looking for in-ear true wireless that won’t break the bank? This award-winning pair are definitely worthy of your consideration.Read more belowBest ANC earbudsBose QC Ultra EarbudsView at AmazonWith top-notch sound, decent battery life, and high-level comfort, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds impress in every area – but especially in their amazing noise cancellation capabilities.Read more belowBest comfortSonos AceView at AmazonThe first pair of headphones that Sonos has ever put out sound fantastic, and look great – and they’re also extremely comfortable to wear, thanks to the design and material choices.Read more belowBest when on offerSony WH-1000XM5View at AmazonThe Sony WH-1000XM5 offer superb sound, superb ANC, and a superb finish – they’re a superb and a worthy investment that, while not budget, are worth every penny and a great upgrade.Read more below

Best overall

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

Bose QC Ultra HeadphonesView at AmazonThe Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones excel in every area, from the superior construction to the gorgeous audio fidelity, and these headphones are our pick for the best pair overall.Read more below

Bose QC Ultra Headphones

View at AmazonThe Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones excel in every area, from the superior construction to the gorgeous audio fidelity, and these headphones are our pick for the best pair overall.Read more below

View at Amazon

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones excel in every area, from the superior construction to the gorgeous audio fidelity, and these headphones are our pick for the best pair overall.

Read more below

Best premiumBowers & Wilkins PX7 S2eView at AmazonThe prestigious Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e are our pick for the best premium headphones, mostly down to their awesome performance: they’re pricey, but they’re worth every penny.Read more below

Best premium

Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e headphones

Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2eView at AmazonThe prestigious Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e are our pick for the best premium headphones, mostly down to their awesome performance: they’re pricey, but they’re worth every penny.Read more below

Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e

View at AmazonThe prestigious Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e are our pick for the best premium headphones, mostly down to their awesome performance: they’re pricey, but they’re worth every penny.Read more below

View at Amazon

The prestigious Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2e are our pick for the best premium headphones, mostly down to their awesome performance: they’re pricey, but they’re worth every penny.

Read more below

Best budgetNothing Ear (2)Check AmazonThe best budget headphones are the Nothing Ear (2). Looking for in-ear true wireless that won’t break the bank? This award-winning pair are definitely worthy of your consideration.Read more below

Best budget

Nothing Ear (2) earbuds

Nothing Ear (2)Check AmazonThe best budget headphones are the Nothing Ear (2). Looking for in-ear true wireless that won’t break the bank? This award-winning pair are definitely worthy of your consideration.Read more below

Nothing Ear (2)

Check AmazonThe best budget headphones are the Nothing Ear (2). Looking for in-ear true wireless that won’t break the bank? This award-winning pair are definitely worthy of your consideration.Read more below

Check Amazon

The best budget headphones are the Nothing Ear (2). Looking for in-ear true wireless that won’t break the bank? This award-winning pair are definitely worthy of your consideration.

Read more below

Best ANC earbudsBose QC Ultra EarbudsView at AmazonWith top-notch sound, decent battery life, and high-level comfort, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds impress in every area – but especially in their amazing noise cancellation capabilities.Read more below

Best ANC earbuds

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

Bose QC Ultra EarbudsView at AmazonWith top-notch sound, decent battery life, and high-level comfort, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds impress in every area – but especially in their amazing noise cancellation capabilities.Read more below

Bose QC Ultra Earbuds

View at AmazonWith top-notch sound, decent battery life, and high-level comfort, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds impress in every area – but especially in their amazing noise cancellation capabilities.Read more below

View at Amazon

With top-notch sound, decent battery life, and high-level comfort, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds impress in every area – but especially in their amazing noise cancellation capabilities.

Read more below

Best comfortSonos AceView at AmazonThe first pair of headphones that Sonos has ever put out sound fantastic, and look great – and they’re also extremely comfortable to wear, thanks to the design and material choices.Read more below

Best comfort

Sonos Ace headphones

Sonos AceView at AmazonThe first pair of headphones that Sonos has ever put out sound fantastic, and look great – and they’re also extremely comfortable to wear, thanks to the design and material choices.Read more below

Sonos Ace

View at AmazonThe first pair of headphones that Sonos has ever put out sound fantastic, and look great – and they’re also extremely comfortable to wear, thanks to the design and material choices.Read more below

View at Amazon

The first pair of headphones that Sonos has ever put out sound fantastic, and look great – and they’re also extremely comfortable to wear, thanks to the design and material choices.

Read more below

Best when on offerSony WH-1000XM5View at AmazonThe Sony WH-1000XM5 offer superb sound, superb ANC, and a superb finish – they’re a superb and a worthy investment that, while not budget, are worth every penny and a great upgrade.Read more below

Best when on offer

Sony WH-1000XM5

Sony WH-1000XM5View at AmazonThe Sony WH-1000XM5 offer superb sound, superb ANC, and a superb finish – they’re a superb and a worthy investment that, while not budget, are worth every penny and a great upgrade.Read more below

Sony WH-1000XM5

View at AmazonThe Sony WH-1000XM5 offer superb sound, superb ANC, and a superb finish – they’re a superb and a worthy investment that, while not budget, are worth every penny and a great upgrade.Read more below

View at Amazon

The Sony WH-1000XM5 offer superb sound, superb ANC, and a superb finish – they’re a superb and a worthy investment that, while not budget, are worth every penny and a great upgrade.

Read more below

Best overall

(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

T3 Awards 2024 Winner logos

(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)

Bose QuietComfort Ultra HeadphonesThe best headphones overallOur expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆SpecificationsBattery life:24 hours with ANCWired option:YesaptX:NoAAC:YesToday’s Best DealsView at Amazon(Black)View at Bose.com USView at Walmart(Black)Reasons to buy+Active noise-cancelling that’s unbeatable+Super audio quality and 3D effect+Decent 18-hour battery lifeReasons to avoid-Don’t fold, so not perfect for travel-Some will prefer the Sony sound
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

1. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

The best headphones overall

Our expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

Our expert review:

Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

☆☆☆☆☆

SpecificationsBattery life:24 hours with ANCWired option:YesaptX:NoAAC:Yes

Battery life:24 hours with ANCWired option:YesaptX:NoAAC:Yes

Battery life:24 hours with ANC

Wired option:Yes

aptX:No

AAC:Yes

Today’s Best DealsView at Amazon(Black)View at Bose.com USView at Walmart(Black)

Today’s Best Deals

View at Amazon(Black)View at Bose.com USView at Walmart(Black)

View at Amazon(Black)

View at Amazon

(Black)

View at Bose.com US

View at Walmart(Black)

View at Walmart

(Black)

Reasons to buy+Active noise-cancelling that’s unbeatable+Super audio quality and 3D effect+Decent 18-hour battery life

+Active noise-cancelling that’s unbeatable+Super audio quality and 3D effect+Decent 18-hour battery life

Active noise-cancelling that’s unbeatable

Super audio quality and 3D effect

Decent 18-hour battery life

Reasons to avoid-Don’t fold, so not perfect for travel-Some will prefer the Sony sound

-Don’t fold, so not perfect for travel-Some will prefer the Sony sound

Don’t fold, so not perfect for travel

Some will prefer the Sony sound

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are not only ultimate at audio, their active noise-cancelling is unrivalled too – and there’s a lot of strong competition. There’s also a fantastic Immersive Audio (spatial audio) feature to enhance your sound.

The QC Ultra Headphones are versatile too, and exceptional for travel – the great carry case and folding design are testament to that – which makes these Bose over-ears ideal for those on the go, as well as those who want to listen at home.

As we said in ourBose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones review: “All hail the noise-cancelling king! If you’re looking for incredible travel headphones then you can do no better.” Give your ears a real treat with our pick for the best headphones overall.

Best premium

(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)

Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e review

T3 Awards 2024 Winner logos

(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)

Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2eThe best premium headphonesOur expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆SpecificationsBattery life:30 hours with ANCWired option:YesaptX:YesAAC:YesToday’s Best DealsView at Amazon(Black)View at Best BuyView at Sweetwater SoundReasons to buy+Confident, detailed, hi-fi level sound+Capable active noise-cancelling+Superior build and finishReasons to avoid-Similar to the Px7 S2-On the expensive side
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e

2. Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e

The best premium headphones

Our expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

Our expert review:

Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

☆☆☆☆☆

SpecificationsBattery life:30 hours with ANCWired option:YesaptX:YesAAC:Yes

Battery life:30 hours with ANCWired option:YesaptX:YesAAC:Yes

Battery life:30 hours with ANC

Wired option:Yes

aptX:Yes

AAC:Yes

Today’s Best DealsView at Amazon(Black)View at Best BuyView at Sweetwater Sound

Today’s Best Deals

View at Amazon(Black)View at Best BuyView at Sweetwater Sound

View at Amazon(Black)

View at Amazon

(Black)

View at Best Buy

View at Sweetwater Sound

Reasons to buy+Confident, detailed, hi-fi level sound+Capable active noise-cancelling+Superior build and finish

+Confident, detailed, hi-fi level sound+Capable active noise-cancelling+Superior build and finish

Confident, detailed, hi-fi level sound

Capable active noise-cancelling

Superior build and finish

Reasons to avoid-Similar to the Px7 S2-On the expensive side

-Similar to the Px7 S2-On the expensive side

Similar to the Px7 S2

On the expensive side

Our premium pick are the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e headphones: they’re not the cheapest out there, but the audio quality is undeniable. You get superb dynamics and details from this pair, and a prestige sound to match this prestige brand name.

The build quality and the materials used here are top-notch too, at the expense of a little extra weight that we don’t think most people will mind. There are easy-to-use on-board controls, as well as the option of a wired connection if you need it.

Add in the 30 hours of battery life between charges, and it’s a fantastic deal. As we said in ourBowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e review, these headphones represent a “marvellous ensemble of sound quality, luxurious build and sublime comfort”.

Best budget

(Image credit: Future / Sam Cross)

The Nothing Ear (2) in white finish, on a black background

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(Image credit: Future / Sam Cross)

Nothing Ear (2)The best budget noise-cancelling earbudsOur expert review:SpecificationsBattery life:4 hours with ANC (22.5 hours with case)Wired option:NoaptX:NoAAC:YesToday’s Best DealsCheck AmazonReasons to buy+Great battery life+Clear mic qualityReasons to avoid-Slightly bass heavy-No voice assistant support
Nothing Ear (2)

3. Nothing Ear (2)

The best budget noise-cancelling earbuds

Our expert review:

SpecificationsBattery life:4 hours with ANC (22.5 hours with case)Wired option:NoaptX:NoAAC:Yes

Battery life:4 hours with ANC (22.5 hours with case)Wired option:NoaptX:NoAAC:Yes

Battery life:4 hours with ANC (22.5 hours with case)

Wired option:No

aptX:No

AAC:Yes

Today’s Best DealsCheck Amazon

Today’s Best Deals

Check Amazon

Reasons to buy+Great battery life+Clear mic quality

+Great battery life+Clear mic quality

Great battery life

Clear mic quality

Reasons to avoid-Slightly bass heavy-No voice assistant support

-Slightly bass heavy-No voice assistant support

Slightly bass heavy

No voice assistant support

If your budget is a little more limited, the second-generation of Nothing’s earbuds, the Ear (2), knocked the T3 team’s socks off (well,earsoff). These affordable in-ears bring with them top-notch sound and app management, plus great battery life.

Indeed it’s hard to find fault with these affordable ANC-ers – unless, that is, you don’t particularly enjoy the transparent design and motifs. But in a sea of otherwise black and grey/creme colours, we think the Ear (2) stand out – and for all the right reasons.

“ANC earbuds don’t come more complete than this,” we wrote in ourNothing Ear (2) review. We don’t think you’ve going to find any wireless earbuds that give you this much bang for your buck, across features, sound quality, and innovative design.

Best ANC earbuds

(Image credit: Future / Emily Pursel)

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds in white

T3 Awards 2024 Winner logos

(Image credit: Future / Emily Pursel)

Bose QuietComfort Ultra EarbudsBest active noise-cancelling earbudsOur expert review:SpecificationsBattery life:6 hours with ANC (24 hours with case)Wired option:NoaptX:YesAAC:YesToday’s Best DealsView at Amazon(White)View at Bose.com USView at Walmart(White)Reasons to buy+Top notch sound+Incredible comfort+Unrivalled noise cancellationReasons to avoid-Case is larger than some-Pricier than most
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

4. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

Best active noise-cancelling earbuds

Our expert review:

SpecificationsBattery life:6 hours with ANC (24 hours with case)Wired option:NoaptX:YesAAC:Yes

Battery life:6 hours with ANC (24 hours with case)Wired option:NoaptX:YesAAC:Yes

Battery life:6 hours with ANC (24 hours with case)

Wired option:No

aptX:Yes

AAC:Yes

Today’s Best DealsView at Amazon(White)View at Bose.com USView at Walmart(White)

Today’s Best Deals

View at Amazon(White)View at Bose.com USView at Walmart(White)

View at Amazon(White)

View at Amazon

(White)

View at Bose.com US

View at Walmart(White)

View at Walmart

(White)

Reasons to buy+Top notch sound+Incredible comfort+Unrivalled noise cancellation

+Top notch sound+Incredible comfort+Unrivalled noise cancellation

Top notch sound

Incredible comfort

Unrivalled noise cancellation

Reasons to avoid-Case is larger than some-Pricier than most

-Case is larger than some-Pricier than most

Case is larger than some

Pricier than most

We can well understand those of you who prioritise active noise cancellation (ANC) above everything else, and the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are our winners here: pricey sure, but excellent at blocking out extraneous noise to the extreme.

As we put it in ourBose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds review, “if you’re in the market for one of the best-sounding pairs of earbuds, these sit in scarce company”. The accompanying app is really well done too, adding to the appeal of the headphones.

It’s hard to find anything to complain about with the build quality, the design, and the comfort of these wireless earbuds either. While we’ve highlighted the ANC in particular here, these are earbuds that score highly in just about every category.

Best comfort

(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)

Sonos Ace review

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(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)

Sonos AceThe best headphones for comfortOur expert review:SpecificationsBattery life:30 hours with ANCWired option:YesaptX:YesAAC:YesToday’s Best DealsView at Amazon(Black)View at Sonos US & CanadaView at Best BuyReasons to buy+Superior-level comfort+Big sound that includes spatial audio+Fun personal cinema featuresReasons to avoid-Case could be improved-Not the best for travel
Sonos Ace

5. Sonos Ace

The best headphones for comfort

Our expert review:

SpecificationsBattery life:30 hours with ANCWired option:YesaptX:YesAAC:Yes

Battery life:30 hours with ANCWired option:YesaptX:YesAAC:Yes

Battery life:30 hours with ANC

Wired option:Yes

aptX:Yes

AAC:Yes

Today’s Best DealsView at Amazon(Black)View at Sonos US & CanadaView at Best Buy

Today’s Best Deals

View at Amazon(Black)View at Sonos US & CanadaView at Best Buy

View at Amazon(Black)

View at Amazon

(Black)

View at Sonos US & Canada

View at Best Buy

Reasons to buy+Superior-level comfort+Big sound that includes spatial audio+Fun personal cinema features

+Superior-level comfort+Big sound that includes spatial audio+Fun personal cinema features

Superior-level comfort

Big sound that includes spatial audio

Fun personal cinema features

Reasons to avoid-Case could be improved-Not the best for travel

-Case could be improved-Not the best for travel

Case could be improved

Not the best for travel

First and foremost, the Sonos Ace offer a superior level of comfort, thanks to the memory foam headband and snug fit. In ourSonos Ace review, tech editor Mike Lowe called them the most comfortable pair of headphones he’s ever worn.

It’s not just that they’re super comfy though – the Sonos Ace pump out a fantastic level of audio quality, feature some really well thought out design choices, and bring with them a very respectable amount of battery life between recharges as well.

Best when on offer

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Sony WH-1000XM5 sat on grass

T3 Awards 2022 Highly Commended logo

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Sony WH-1000XM5The best headphones when on offerOur expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆SpecificationsBattery life:30 hours with ANC / 40 hours withoutWired option:YesaptX:NoAAC:YesToday’s Best DealsView at Amazon(Gold)View at Walmart(Black)View at Sweetwater SoundReasons to buy+Sony’s best noise-cancelling+Expansive audio+Great controlsReasons to avoid-Some may prefer the Bose QC Ultra-Don’t totally fold like some competitors
Sony WH-1000XM5

6. Sony WH-1000XM5

The best headphones when on offer

Our expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

Our expert review:

Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

☆☆☆☆☆

SpecificationsBattery life:30 hours with ANC / 40 hours withoutWired option:YesaptX:NoAAC:Yes

Battery life:30 hours with ANC / 40 hours withoutWired option:YesaptX:NoAAC:Yes

Battery life:30 hours with ANC / 40 hours without

Wired option:Yes

aptX:No

AAC:Yes

Today’s Best DealsView at Amazon(Gold)View at Walmart(Black)View at Sweetwater Sound

Today’s Best Deals

View at Amazon(Gold)View at Walmart(Black)View at Sweetwater Sound

View at Amazon(Gold)

View at Amazon

(Gold)

View at Walmart(Black)

View at Walmart

(Black)

View at Sweetwater Sound

Reasons to buy+Sony’s best noise-cancelling+Expansive audio+Great controls

+Sony’s best noise-cancelling+Expansive audio+Great controls

Sony’s best noise-cancelling

Expansive audio

Great controls

Reasons to avoid-Some may prefer the Bose QC Ultra-Don’t totally fold like some competitors

-Some may prefer the Bose QC Ultra-Don’t totally fold like some competitors

Some may prefer the Bose QC Ultra

Don’t totally fold like some competitors

With every iteration of its WH-series noise-cancelling (ANC) over-ear headphones, Sony has dramatically improved the listening experience – but the XM5 cans have taken everything to a whole new aural level altogether.

The WH-1000XM5 deliver an expansive soundstage and the very best ANC that Sony has ever produced. As we say in ourSony WH-1000XM5 review: “Sony has delivered a pair of headphones that can deal with virtually any external sound short of an HGV moving off from the lights.”

Comfort and build quality are top notch too, and the new design is beautifully minimalist. Even in the middle of a very competitive market, the WH-1000XM5 headphones are able to stand out and offer a compelling proposition.

Best for sports

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)

Jabra Elite 8 Active review

T3 Awards 2024 Winner logos

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)

Jabra Elite 8 Active

7. Jabra Elite 8 Active

The best headphones for sports

Our expert review:

SpecificationsBattery life:8 hours with ANC (32 hours with case)Wired option:NoaptX:NoAAC:Yes

Battery life:8 hours with ANC (32 hours with case)Wired option:NoaptX:NoAAC:Yes

Battery life:8 hours with ANC (32 hours with case)

Wired option:No

aptX:No

AAC:Yes

Today’s Best DealsView at Walmart(Blue)View at AmazonView at Jabra

Today’s Best Deals

View at Walmart(Blue)View at AmazonView at Jabra

View at Walmart(Blue)

View at Walmart

(Blue)

View at Amazon

View at Jabra

Extra durable construction

Updated, comfortable form factor

Reasons to avoid-Wingtip-less design won’t suit everyone-Adaptive ANC could be better

-Wingtip-less design won’t suit everyone-Adaptive ANC could be better

Wingtip-less design won’t suit everyone

Adaptive ANC could be better

Read our fullJabra Elite 8 Active reviewand you’ll see that we described these earbuds as “brilliant workout buds, the most rugged on the market, with excellent sound” – which is quite an advertisement if you’re looking to make a purchase.

Best Apple

(Image credit: Future)

Apple AirPods Pro 2 review

T3 Approved badge

(Image credit: Future)

Apple AirPods Pro 2The best Apple headphonesOur expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆SpecificationsBattery life:5.5 hours with ANC (30 hours with case)Wired option:NoaptX:NoAAC:YesToday’s Best DealsView at AmazonReasons to buy+Great active noise cancelling+Automatic pairing with Apple devices+Extra silicone earbudsReasons to avoid-Battery life is fine-A little old now
Apple AirPods Pro 2

8. Apple AirPods Pro 2

The best Apple headphones

Our expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

Our expert review:

Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

☆☆☆☆☆

SpecificationsBattery life:5.5 hours with ANC (30 hours with case)Wired option:NoaptX:NoAAC:Yes

Battery life:5.5 hours with ANC (30 hours with case)Wired option:NoaptX:NoAAC:Yes

Battery life:5.5 hours with ANC (30 hours with case)

Wired option:No

aptX:No

AAC:Yes

Today’s Best DealsView at Amazon

Today’s Best Deals

View at Amazon

Reasons to buy+Great active noise cancelling+Automatic pairing with Apple devices+Extra silicone earbuds

+Great active noise cancelling+Automatic pairing with Apple devices+Extra silicone earbuds

Great active noise cancelling

Automatic pairing with Apple devices

Extra silicone earbuds

Reasons to avoid-Battery life is fine-A little old now

-Battery life is fine-A little old now

Battery life is fine

A little old now

The AirPods Pro 2 have been out a while now (and were just re-released with new USB-C port for charging), but the noise-cancelling earbuds are still some of the best headphones for Apple devices (and they’ll work with other gadgets too).

Not only do they have handy automatic pairing and switching ideal for those embedded in the Apple ecosystem, but they’ve also got wireless charging functionality, as well as handy IPX4 water resistance so you can head to the gym and not have to worry.

The audio still massively impresses, with solid noise-cancelling and decent battery life as well. We described them as a “big win” for Apple in ourApple AirPods Pro 2 review, which may be part of the reason they haven’t been replaced yet.

Best luxury

(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)

Bowers & Wilkins PX8 headphones

T3 Awards 2023 Logo

(Image credit: Future / Mike Lowe)

Bowers & Wilkins PX8The best luxury headphonesOur expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆SpecificationsBattery life:30 hours with ANCWired option:NoaptX:YesAAC:YesToday’s Best DealsView at AmazonView at Back Market (US)(Black)View at Sweetwater SoundReasons to buy+Energetic, poised and thoroughly convincing sound+Great standard of build and finish+Effective noise-cancellationReasons to avoid-Could be PX7 S2 at a glance-No touch controls
Bowers & Wilkins PX8

9. Bowers & Wilkins PX8

The best luxury headphones

Our expert review:Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

Our expert review:

Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

☆☆☆☆☆

SpecificationsBattery life:30 hours with ANCWired option:NoaptX:YesAAC:Yes

Battery life:30 hours with ANCWired option:NoaptX:YesAAC:Yes

Battery life:30 hours with ANC

Wired option:No

aptX:Yes

AAC:Yes

Today’s Best DealsView at AmazonView at Back Market (US)(Black)View at Sweetwater Sound

Today’s Best Deals

View at AmazonView at Back Market (US)(Black)View at Sweetwater Sound

View at Amazon

View at Back Market (US)(Black)

View at Back Market (US)

(Black)

View at Sweetwater Sound

Reasons to buy+Energetic, poised and thoroughly convincing sound+Great standard of build and finish+Effective noise-cancellation

+Energetic, poised and thoroughly convincing sound+Great standard of build and finish+Effective noise-cancellation

Energetic, poised and thoroughly convincing sound

Great standard of build and finish

Effective noise-cancellation

Reasons to avoid-Could be PX7 S2 at a glance-No touch controls

-Could be PX7 S2 at a glance-No touch controls

Could be PX7 S2 at a glance

No touch controls

Yes, the Bowers & Wilkins PX8 are pricey, but these are the Premier League of headphones: if you want luxe materials and finish and hours of comfortable wear, not to mention all the top-flight codec compatibility, not much else compares.

As said in our fullBowers & Wilkins PX8 review: “If you’re prepared to spend big on a new pair of headphones, but want to hear as well as see and feel where all that money has gone, you need to check out these Bowers & Wilkins.”

These are our top picks when it comes to luxury feel and audio, and even at this high price, you’re getting a lot of value back from your money. The sound you get from these is quite simply superb, as is the thought that’s gone into their construction.

Best luxury in-ears

(Image credit: Denon)

Denon PerL Pro true wireless earbuds

T3 Awards 2024 Highly Commended

(Image credit: Denon)

Denon PerL ProThe best luxury in-ear headphonesOur expert review:SpecificationsBattery life:8 hours with ANC (32 hours with case)Wired option:NoaptX:YesAAC:YesToday’s Best DealsView at Sweetwater SoundView at CrutchfieldView at Denon GlobalReasons to buy+Excellent sound quality+Superb, stylish design+Great personalisation featureReasons to avoid-Undeniably expensive-Can feel a bit bulky
Denon PerL Pro

10. Denon PerL Pro

The best luxury in-ear headphones

Our expert review:

SpecificationsBattery life:8 hours with ANC (32 hours with case)Wired option:NoaptX:YesAAC:Yes

Battery life:8 hours with ANC (32 hours with case)Wired option:NoaptX:YesAAC:Yes

Battery life:8 hours with ANC (32 hours with case)

Wired option:No

aptX:Yes

AAC:Yes

Today’s Best DealsView at Sweetwater SoundView at CrutchfieldView at Denon Global

Today’s Best Deals

View at Sweetwater SoundView at CrutchfieldView at Denon Global

View at Sweetwater Sound

View at Crutchfield

View at Denon Global

Reasons to buy+Excellent sound quality+Superb, stylish design+Great personalisation feature

+Excellent sound quality+Superb, stylish design+Great personalisation feature

Excellent sound quality

Superb, stylish design

Great personalisation feature

Reasons to avoid-Undeniably expensive-Can feel a bit bulky

-Undeniably expensive-Can feel a bit bulky

Undeniably expensive

Can feel a bit bulky

In ourDenon PerL Pro reviewwe said these headphones offered “sound quality that’s out of this world”, which gives you some idea of what we’re dealing with here: earbuds worthy of being our number one picks in the luxury earbuds category.

As well as the astonishing sound, the Denon PerL Pro earbuds also bring with them some clever personalisation options, excellent build quality, and a stylish look – though we suspect their aesthetic isn’t going to fully chime with everyone.

Okay they’re pricey, but the five-star rating that we gave the Denon PerL Pro earbuds is fully justified – and when you pop them in your ears, we think you’ll understand why. Headphones to consider if you want the best quality money can buy.

How we test

At T3how we testour headphones is beautifully simple: We listen to them a whole lot. And not just when sitting in a quiet room. We do it out in the street. On public transport. On planes. When out shopping. That way we can judge seal and active noise-cancelling (ANC) where applicable.

We also like to test out multiple genres of music to make sure we can hear the full spectrum of sound, which is different for rock or underground compared to, say, classical. The full soundstage, from treble to bass and everything in between, is analysed to ensure we get the most accurate real-world impression.

Such testing also means we get a good impression of battery life based on real-life scenarios. Not just imaginary ones. When a manufacturer promises a given amount of time using ANC, for example, we want to make sure that’s achievable.

We also get that people’s lives often mean music isn’t the entirety of their wants and needs: that’s why we test call quality, where applicable, to see just how well headphones can deliver voice. Whether in quiet or in noisy conditions, it’s another key part of a headphones feature set.

All that combines, as does consideration to the design and comfort factors, to cumulate into a score out of a maximum 5-stars. We only rate in full stars, no halves, here at T3, so only the best-of-best get the full marks.

How to choose

When it comes to picking the best headphones for you personally, thankfully for your budget you don’t always have to go for the most expensive option. Firstly, it’s important to think about where you want to use your headphones. Are they for exercise? Wearing in the office? Or maybe to put the mute into your morning commute? Dreadful puns aside, if you do want the rest of the world to disappear, you definitely want to invest the extra in a pair of active noise-cancelling headphones, and if you’re a gym bunny you’ll really want something sweat proof.

Once you’ve worked out what you need, your next choice is what style of headphone you want. And truthfully it’s all about comfort and subjectivity. Maybe you want the subtlety of a pair of true wireless in ear buds or maybe you want the world to know you are actively listening to music. We’ve given you the best headphone for all budgets, all you need to do is choose what’s right for you.

Reviewer panel

Mike LoweT3.com Tech Editor

Mike Lowe

Sam CrossT3.com Staff WriterThere isn’t much that T3 Staff Writer Sam Cross doesn’t know about technology – it’s part of the reason we hired him – and that detailed knowledge extends to earbuds, of which Sam has seen many models for review. Whether that’s budget phone-maker brands, or high-end in-ears, Sam’s canals have met with dozens of pairs right across the range.

Sam CrossT3.com Staff Writer

Sam Cross

There isn’t much that T3 Staff Writer Sam Cross doesn’t know about technology – it’s part of the reason we hired him – and that detailed knowledge extends to earbuds, of which Sam has seen many models for review. Whether that’s budget phone-maker brands, or high-end in-ears, Sam’s canals have met with dozens of pairs right across the range.

Matt KollatT3.com Active EditorAs T3’s Active Editor, Matt’s work focuses on fitness, training, running shoes and the like. But when doing all those workouts, a good pair of earbuds for sweaty scenarios is his forte, which is why the fitness and running headphones fall into his remit. He’s also been testing Apple’s AirPods since the product’s inception, as our in-house expert in that regard too.

Matt KollatT3.com Active Editor

Matt Kollat

As T3’s Active Editor, Matt’s work focuses on fitness, training, running shoes and the like. But when doing all those workouts, a good pair of earbuds for sweaty scenarios is his forte, which is why the fitness and running headphones fall into his remit. He’s also been testing Apple’s AirPods since the product’s inception, as our in-house expert in that regard too.

Round up of today’s best deals

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones$429ViewSee all pricesBowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e$307ViewSee all pricesBose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds$299ViewSee all pricesSonos Ace$434ViewSee all pricesSony WH-1000XM5$399.99$297ViewSee all pricesJabra Elite 8 Active$14.99$8.99ViewSee all pricesApple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation$199ViewSee all pricesBowers & Wilkins PX8$699$524.08ViewSee all pricesDenon PerL Pro$199ViewSee all prices

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones$429ViewSee all prices

Bose QuietComfort Ultra…

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

Amazon

$429View

$429

See all prices

Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e$307ViewSee all prices

Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e…

Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e

Amazon

$307View

$307

See all prices

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds$299ViewSee all prices

Bose QuietComfort Ultra…

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

Amazon

$299View

$299

See all prices

Sonos Ace$434ViewSee all prices

Sonos Ace - Black - Wireless…

Sonos Ace

Amazon

$434View

$434

See all prices

Sony WH-1000XM5$399.99$297ViewSee all prices

Sony WH-1000XM5S Noise…

Sony WH-1000XM5

Amazon

$399.99$297View

$399.99$297

$297

See all prices

Jabra Elite 8 Active$14.99$8.99ViewSee all prices

Jabra Elite 8 Active Eargels…

Jabra Elite 8 Active

Walmart

$14.99$8.99View

$14.99$8.99

$8.99

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Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation$199ViewSee all prices

Apple AirPods Pro 2 Wireless…

Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation

Amazon

$199View

$199

See all prices

Bowers & Wilkins PX8$699$524.08ViewSee all prices

Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear…

Bowers & Wilkins PX8

Amazon

$699$524.08View

$699$524.08

$524.08

See all prices

Denon PerL Pro$199ViewSee all prices

Denon AHC15PL PerL Pro True…

Denon PerL Pro

Sweetwater Sound

$199View

$199

See all prices

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T3’s Top Picks#

Best overall#

1. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones#

Best premium#

2. Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e#

Best budget#

3. Nothing Ear (2)#

Best ANC earbuds#

4. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds#

Best comfort#

5. Sonos Ace#

Best when on offer#

6. Sony WH-1000XM5#

Best for sports#

7. Jabra Elite 8 Active#

Best Apple#

8. Apple AirPods Pro 2#

Best luxury#

9. Bowers & Wilkins PX8#

Best luxury in-ears#

10. Denon PerL Pro#

How we test#

How to choose#

Reviewer panel#

Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox#

T3’s Top Picks

Best overall

1. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

Best premium

2. Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e

Best budget

3. Nothing Ear (2)

Best ANC earbuds

4. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

Best comfort

5. Sonos Ace

Best when on offer

6. Sony WH-1000XM5

Best for sports

7. Jabra Elite 8 Active

Best Apple

8. Apple AirPods Pro 2

Best luxury

9. Bowers & Wilkins PX8

Best luxury in-ears

10. Denon PerL Pro

How we test

How to choose

Reviewer panel

Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox