Our picks offer stellar sound and lifestyle fit
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We spent time testing and researching the top contenders, and here are our favorites.
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Note: Prices are subject to change.
These headphones punch well above their weight in the wireless category with Bluetooth compatibility in theless lossyaptXcodec.
Plus, they’re wired, offering both auxiliary connectivity and a USB DAC that delivers decent audio.
PHOTO: Lifewire / Jason Schneider
But spoken word and podcasts sound great too.
The Sennheiser app is also one of the most customizable apps Ive experienced.
It offers more control over equalization and has built-in presets to set the sound quality you want.
Lifewire / Jason Schneider
The noise canceling is adequate compared to Bose, Sony, or Apple headphones at a similar price.
And the class-leading 60-hour battery life (which trended in the high 50s for me) doesnt hurt either.
Overall, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 is topping my list for sound quality first and the full package second.
PHOTO: Bose
The noise cancellation is truly remarkable.
I found particular value in using the QC Ultra on a commuter train.
The headphones drowned out the engine’s transient chug, letting me ease into focus.
Lifewire / Jason Schneider
However, the package is still a bit bulkier than some other offerings.
On paper, the connectivity here is excellent.
But perhaps the best thing about the QC Ultra headphones is how predictably great they are.
PHOTO: Lifewire / Jason Schneider
The headphones are really light, and have a premium feel even though the build is primarily plastic.
The headband’s non-ratcheting stainless steel adjustment segment feels satisfying and precise when dialing in the correct size.
And the magnetic way the ear pads attach to the headphones means you might replace them quickly.
Lifewire / Jason Schneider
If you like Sonos approach to satisfying, “consumer-friendly” audio, then youll love these.
I spent a good week or two with the Ace, and its clear theres a lot to love.
And thats partially by design.
PHOTO: Amazon
If you want the latter, go with some audiophile-grade, monitor-style headphones.
Read ourheadphone buying guidefor more information.
Lifewire / Jason Schneider
