Wireless earbuds are the default choice these days, and there are about a million of them (and the number keeps growing). We do our best to test them all, but not all of them can make it onto the list. Here are some other great options worth checking out.
Sonos Ace for $449: The Sonos Ace (8/10, recommended by WIRED) is an expensive but impressive first effort from Sonos, with fantastic noise cancellation, excellent sound, and one of the most comfortable designs (if not he The most comfortable you’ll find in the game. Some initial software bugs hampered its performance at launch, including an issue with the TV Swap feature that lets you pass sound from a Sonos soundbar to the Ace, but I’m hoping Sonos will fix this via a firmware update.
Technics EAH-AZ80 for $298: The AZ80 (9/10, WIRED recommends) are excellent headphones. Their most notable feature is that they can be comfortably paired with three devices at once, but they also stand out for their good noise cancellation technology, top-notch sound quality, and seven different eartip options for an incredibly comfortable fit.
Beats Studio Pro for $250: The Studio Pros (7/10, WIRED Recommends) offer quality performance, including surprisingly clear sound, good noise cancellation, and a refreshingly natural Transparency mode. The design feels a bit cheap and they skip out on features like auto-pause, but extras like hands-free Siri and head tracking with spatial audio help boost their value, especially since their retail price sometimes drops to around half the original $350 MSRP.
Sony WH-CH720N for $150: These Sony headphones may have a ridiculous name, but their price makes up for it. They’re not as flexible as top options and don’t come with a case, but their sound quality and noise cancellation are excellent for the price. They are also built to last and have a long battery life, making them a great option for cautious buyers.
Sony WH-1000XM4 for $267: Sony’s XM4 (9/10, WIRED Recommends) are still top-notch headphones, even after being replaced by the more sophisticated XM5. For a pretty hefty price reduction, you’ll get still-fabulous noise-canceling technology, great sound, and luxurious comfort in a highly portable package.
Master and Dynamic MH40 for $399: M&D’s second-generation MH40 (8/10, WIRED recommends) pack gorgeous sound into an equally gorgeous design, with luxurious trimmings like lambskin and metal parts instead of plastic. Their lack of advanced features—excluding even noise cancellation—makes them an expensive portal into minimalism, but they’re stylish enough for days.
Bowers and Wilkins Px7 S2 for $300: These slim and comfortable headphones from B&W (9/10, WIRED recommends) have been updated in the Newest S2e ($399)which provides advanced digital processing to enhance audio. We already love the sound of the original, and while they can’t match the features or noise cancellation of our top pick, either option is a solid choice, especially on sale.
Audio Technique ATH-M50xBT for $199: The original ATH-M50X (9/10, WIRED Recommends) offer balanced sound and great durability, making them a ubiquitous fixture in music and film studios. But what if you want to take them with you between takes? Introducing the ATH-M50XBT, which combines a wired studio connection and Bluetooth for wireless freedom. They don’t offer noise cancellation or other advanced features, but they’re ideal for combining art and entertainment.
Sony Linkbuds for $128: The Linkbuds (8/10, WIRED recommends) have one neat trick: speakers with holes in the middle that let the world around you in for ambient awareness. They’re not all that appealing for noisy environments, making them something of a one-trick pony, but they’re among the best options in the growing open-ear trend.
JLab Jbuds Mini for $40: These micro-buds from JLab offer so-so sound, but their adorable tiny design that fits on a keychain makes them a fun accessory for those who need cheap headphones to carry around.
Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro 2 for $160: Samsung’s best Galaxy buds (9/10, WIRED recommended) are getting a little long in the tooth, but they’re still among the best earbuds for Galaxy phones, offering solid noise cancellation, clear and lively sound, and a few Samsung-only features. Their app won’t work with non-Samsung phones, though, and their battery life of just five hours is now at the bottom of the barrel.
