The Most Popular Headphones For 2024

Harlan Ellison By, Harlan Ellison
Updated
Most Popular Headphones
Most Popular Headphones

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones

The Bose QuietComfort 35 II wireless headphones are the world’s most comfortable and popular headphones. Now, they’re Alexa-enabled for voice access to music, information, and more. These noise-rejecting headphones feature Bose AR—an innovative audio-only version of augmented reality that makes it easy to find your glasses or phone. Pairing is hassle-free thanks to the Bluetooth connection and adjustable headband, which lets you customize the fit for any activity. Read Review

2. Runner Up: Anker Soundcore Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

These headphones are capable of delivering incredible sound quality that exceeds the widest range of music genres. Life Q20's large 40 mm dynamic drivers produce Hi-Res sound and its noise cancellation can reduce ambient noises by up to 90%. The earcups are flexible and contoured for a snug, custom fit. Read Review

3. Best Convenient: Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Premium Headphones

Step up your game and hear every detail with Sony WH-1000XM4. These headphones feature industry-leading noise canceling with Dual Noise Sensor technology, and a power button on the left ear cup for seamless control of your music. With up to 30-hour battery life and quick charging, these cans are designed for those who want to listen wirelessly all day. Read Review

4. Best Performance: Beats Flex Wireless Earbuds – Apple W1 Headphone Chip

When you want flawless Apple W1 chip-powered wireless performance, get the new Beats Flex Wireless Earbuds. These earbuds come with four eartip options and a flexible cable that fits securely in your ears. They also have a magnetic design so you can wear them around your neck when not using them. Plus, they have an easy-to-use Auto-Play/Pause feature that lets music play or pause automatically when you take them out of your ears. Read Review

With the increase in smartphone usage, portable audio has become a standard feature of smartphones. Users often look for headphones that provide them with good audio quality and can be used for listening to music or podcasts on the go. Portable headphones are available as wired units as well as wireless ones.

Wired headphones provide great sound quality but they can be quite cumbersome to use. In case of wireless headphones, you need to keep charging them every time you want to use them. Headphones play an important role when it comes to listening to music or watching movies and TV shows anywhere anytime. Whether at home or while traveling, having the right pair of headphones makes listening much more convenient. In this post, we will discuss the top 10 best headphone models in 2024.

Before making our recommendations, our specialists spend substantial time researching and analyzing your requirements. Then we found the Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones is the greatest choice for its high-quality performance. If you're looking for another one, consider Anker Soundcore Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones.

Our Top Picks

  • Alexa-enabled for voice access to music, information, and more
  • For iPhone, iPad, and Android users, be sure your product’s firmware is up to date through the Bose connect app. Then you can access a showcase of Bose AR enhanced apps with Links to download them.
  • Noise-rejecting dual-microphone system for clear sound and voice pick-up
  • Balanced audio performance at any volume
  • Hassle-free Bluetooth pairing, personalized settings, access to future updates, and more through the Bose connect app. USB cable: 12 inch
  • Three levels of world-class noise cancellation for better listening experience in any environment
  • Bose AR enabled — an innovative, audio-only version of augmented reality
  • Hi-Res Audio: Custom oversized 40 mm dynamic drivers produce Hi-Res sound. Life Q20 active noise canceling headphones reproduce music with extended high frequencies that reach up to 40 kHz for extraordinary clarity and detail.
  • Reduce Ambient Noises By Up to 90%: Our team of engineers conducted more than 100,000 tests in real-life scenarios to fine-tune Life Q20’s 4 built-in ANC microphones and digital active noise cancellation algorithm. As a result, the hybrid active noise cancellation can detect and cancel out a wider range of low and mid-frequency noises such as cars and airplane engines.
  • Incredible Sound Loved by 20 Million+ People
  • 100% Stronger Bass: Our exclusive BassUp technology conducts real-time analysis of the low frequencies to instantly strengthen the bass output. Double press the play button when listening to bass-heavy genres like EDM and hip-hop for an amplified listening experience.
  • 40-Hour Playtime*: Up to 40 hours of non-stop playtime in wireless active noise cancellation mode (at 60% volume) is extended to an enormous 60 hours in standard music mode. A single charge gives you enough juice to listen to over 600 songs or soundtrack multiple long haul flights. And when you’re in a rush, charge Life Q20 active noise canceling headphones for 5 minutes and get 4 hours of listening.
TOP Choice #3 Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Premium Headphones
Our Score:
9.4
Sony
  • Seamless multiple-device pairing
  • Up to 30-hour battery life with quick charging (10 min charge for 5 hours of playback)
  • Speak-to-chat technology automatically reduces volume during conversations
  • Superior call quality with precise voice pickup
  • Industry-leading noise canceling with Dual Noise Sensor technology
  • Next-level music with Edge-AI, co-developed with Sony Music Studios Tokyo
  • Adaptive Sound Control provides a personalized listening experience
  • Touch Sensor controls to pause play skip tracks, control volume, activate your voice assistant, and answer phone calls
  • Updated design relieves pressure for long-lasting comfort.
  • Wearing detection pauses playback when headphones are removed
  • BUILT-IN MICROPHONE - Built-in microphone with wind reduction for elevated voice clarity
  • APPLE HEADPHONE CHIP - Powered by the Apple W1 headphone chip for seamless connectivity
  • WHAT’S IN THE BOX - Beats Flex wireless earphones, USB-C to USB-C charging cable, Eartips with four size options, Quick Start Guide, Warranty card
  • EXTENDED WIRELESS RANGE - Class 1 Bluetooth for extended range and fewer dropouts
  • COMPATIBILITY - Compatible with Apple and Android
  • LISTEN WITH A FRIEND - Audio Sharing lets you wirelessly share audio with another pair of Beats headphones or AirPods
  • THE MUSIC STOPS WHEN YOU DO - Magnetic earbuds with Auto-Play/Pause
  • BATTERY LIFE - Up to 12 hours of listening time
  • CUSTOMIZED FIT - All-day comfort with Flex-Form cable and four eartip options
  • ON-DEVICE CONTROLS - On-device controls for music, calls, and voice assistant
  • ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION: With these noise cancelling earbuds, you can filter out the world and focus on your music; Use the Sound plus app to activate ANC the first time you use it and enable toggling between ANC and HearThrough via your earbud button
  • NO AUDIO DROPOUTS – With Jabra 4th generation true wireless connection, your music and calls will be stable, with no wires to get in the way;With these Bluetooth earbuds, you can enjoy conversations and music with no audio dropouts or interruptions
  • LONG BATTERY LIFE – With Jabra Elite 75t wireless Bluetooth earbuds, you get up to 24 hours of battery time (ANC on) with the pocket-friendly charging case, the Elite 75t earphones let you take calls and play music while staying connected
  • WIRELESS EARBUDS – Jabra Elite 75t is engineered to fit; Making and taking calls is always a great experience, wherever you are, thanks to enhanced 4-microphone call technology which filters out wind and other disruptive noises around you
  • COMPACT COMFORT – Designed and tested for a secure fit, the Jabra Elite 75t features a new smaller design that provides an ideal fit for every type of ear while the ergonomic shape makes them exceptionally comfortable. Connectivity-Bluetooth 5.0. Supported bluetooth profiles-HSP v1.2, HFP v1.7, A2DP v1.3, AVRCP v1.6, SPP v1.2
  • Included components: JBL TUNE 225TWS Headphone, Type-C USB charging cable, Charging case
  • SLEEK CHARGING CASE: The charging case for the JBL Tune 225TWS wireless headphones is as thoughtfully designed as the earbuds it holds, with a shape inspired by a river stone, a soft body, and a curved lid that pops up to give you fast access to your buds
  • DUAL CONNECT: The power of Dual Connect gives you the choice to seamlessly enjoy music or make calls with either one or both buds. And the battery life keeps up with you, as you can keep one earbud charging, while using the other one
  • UP TO 25 HOURS BATTERY (5 plus 20): these earphones have enough battery to last all day and all night. Keep your own private concert going for as long as you can keep up
  • JBL PURE BASS SOUND: Powering festivals and concerts around the world for decades, now JBL brings your own world to life with incredible Pure Bass sound in these wireless earbuds.Note : If the size of the earbud tips does not match the size of your ear canals or the headset is not worn properly in your ears, you may not obtain the correct sound qualities or call performance. Change the earbud tips to ones that fit more snugly in your ears
  • Wireless communication technology: Bluetooth
  • Connectivity technology: Bluetooth
  • WIRELESS IN STYLE: Experience total freedom with no cords with the True Wireless JBL Tune 225TWS earbuds. With 6 different colors, you'll be able to find the perfect pair of earbuds to match exactly who you are
  • Almighty Audio — Custom-designed Nova Acoustic System features best-in class audio for gaming with High Fidelity Drivers. Fully customize your ideal sound experience with a first-in gaming Pro-grade Parametric EQ.
  • 360° Spatial Audio — Immersive surround sound transports you to the gaming world, letting you hear every critical step, reload, or vocal cue to give you an advantage. *Fully compatible with Microsoft Spatial Sound / Tempest 3D Audio for PS5
  • Dual Audio Streams - Mix two audio connections at the same time, letting you chat with friends while gaming. Play with lag-free 2.4GHz while using Bluetooth simultaneously for calls, Discord, music, and podcasts.
  • Multi-Platform Support - Bring the Arctis Nova 7 to your favorite platform, such as Xbox, PC, Mac, PlayStation, or Switch, with a pocket-size USB-C dongle for lag-free Quantum 2.0 Wireless (2.4GHz). USB-A adapter included.
  • Great Battery Life - The 38-hour battery life keeps you in the action for over 1.5 days, while a quick 15-minute USB-C fast charge boosts the headset for 6 hours of use.
  • AI-Powered Noise-Cancelling Mic — The ClearCast Gen 2 mic silences background noise to give you crystal clear comms, backed by Sonar Software's powerful AI algorithms. Fully retract the mic into the earcup for a sleeker look.
  • Compatibility: Connects via USB connector; THX Spatial Audio available on Windows 10 64bit only
  • Retractable, Active Noise Cancelling Microphone: An improved mic with ANC reduces background and ambient noises for crystal-clear communication
  • Frequency Response 20 Hz – 20 kHz
  • Headphones fit type:Over-Ear
  • All-Day Comfort: Oval, cooling gel-infused cushions that prevent overheating and pressure build-up
  • On-Earcup Audio Controls: Includes volume up and down and THX Spatial on or off toggle
  • Ultimate Personalization and Gaming Immersion with Razer Chroma: Offers effortless, full integration with popular game titles and syncs with Razer hardware, Philips Hue, and gear from 30 plus partners; supports 16.8 million colors.THX 7.1 Surround Sound Capable: Provides industry-leading audio realism for in-game immersion by providing accurate spatial audio information beyond standard 7.1 surround sound directional cues
  • True wireless freedom
  • Active noise canceling
  • Rapid charge
  • 22 hours battery life
  • Ambient mode
  • 【COMPATIBLE WITH iOS&ANDROID】Connect to Bluetooth-Enabled Devices Without Missing a Beat. Your device will recognize the TONE Free earbuds quickly and seamlessly. Compatible with Apple iOS devices including iPhone/iMac/iPod,etc. and Android devices including LG Gram PC, Galaxy, etc.
  • 【SOUND BY MERIDIAN TECHNOLOGY】Hi-Fi sound with a realistic sense of space. A built-in equalizer delivers impressive bass and treble tones that sound like the live recording with pristine clarity.
  • [ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION】More immersion than ever, less noise than before. How LG specialized ANC works; built-in high performance upper microphone detects external noise, inner microphone cancels out unwanted noise*..Note : If the size of the earbud tips does not match the size of your ear canals or the headset is not worn properly in your ears, you may not obtain the correct sound qualities or call performance. Change the earbud tips to ones that fit more snugly in your ears
  • 【COMPACT CRADLE】 Fits Right in Your Palm. Minimal yet with a unique shaped cradle is stylish enough to fit any aesthetic.
  • 【IPX4 SPLASH-PROOF】IPX4 Water resistance has your earbuds protected when you are sweating while working out or walking in the rain***.
  • 【ERGONOMIC DESIGN】The ultimate fit with ear seal design. New contoured design conforms to the shape of your ear, providing a comfortable and stylish fit.
  • 【22 HRS BATTERY LIFE** & FAST CHARGING】Keep the vibe alive and save time to simply recharge. Up to 8 hours of playback, up to 11 hours in the cradle all from one charge. Get another hour of playtime from just a five-minute fast charge.
  • 【DUAL MIC CALL CLARITY】Clear calls with noise reduction & echo cancellation. How LG earbuds maximize call clarity; built-in high performance dual microphones detect & minimize unwanted noise, and pick up & amplify your vocals even in a crowded space. Perfect for work calls/web conferences/home offices.
  • 【WHISPERING MODE】Protect Your Privacy. The only earbuds that let you whisper on a call and still be heard loud and clear on the other end of the line, even if you are in a library or on a subway.
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a most popular headphones?

Design

The design is often more important than everything. Do you want in-ear or on-ear headphones, as well as over-ear and under-ear models? Wireless or wired? Sporty or luxury? These headphones can be worn for many occasions so you need something that fits your needs. No matter what type of headphones you decide to get, ensure that they are sturdy, lightweight, comfortable, and easy to transport.

Accessories

Accessories are equally important for wired models. The manufacturer should include an aux cable. It is a good idea to get headphones with an carrying case, charger cable, user manual, extra tips, or ear cups.

Special Features

A lot of earbuds or headphones have bonus features like Dolby Atmos support, spatial audio and adaptive EQ. You can also participate in calls and video calls when they are paired with your phone.
Many of these earbuds can be used with either your phone's native app or a separate app that allows you to locate an errant earbud quickly. Most headphones, however, aren't waterproof or water-resistant.
Consider the audio type and the place you will be listening. Then, pick the headphones that have the most common features and functions.

Audio Quality

The second option is sound. There are many models that offer different sound quality. You want to choose headphones that suit your taste. With the companion app, some models can be customized to produce a sound that suits their needs.

Headphone Type

Do you prefer a pair of headphones that are sealed or in-ear? Is active noise cancellation technology available in a headphone?
It is important to consider comfort. You might be using your headphone at least 4-5 hours per days. Would you choose a product that is strong but also isolates you well? Would you choose a larger can, which is lighter but still portable, or a smaller can?

Durability

A headphone shouldn't be considered disposable technology. This year's headphones will not be outdated six months from now, unlike almost all other consumer electronics. A pair of good headphones should last at least ten years.
Make sure you check the quality of headphones before purchasing. For example, some earbuds or portable devices can be quite fragile. Are the hinges strong enough to hold the headphones together for storage? Or will they break in just a few months? Remember that headphones' earpads, earbuds, and headphone cables will experience a lot of wear over their lifetime.

Mobile App

Most popular headphones and earbuds have an app that allows you to control your audio experience.
Some apps allow you to pair the device and control the settings, while others let you manually adjust the volume and bass levels of the headphones or earbuds.

FAQs

Are Wired Headphones Better Than Wireless?

Wireless headphones generally have better sound quality than wired headphones. However, there has been so much advancement in audio technology in the last few years that you won't notice any difference with most of the top wireless headphones.
We recommend that audiophiles keep choosing wired headphones. It's up to you, the individual. Wireless headphones are a good choice if you prefer wireless headphones and they offer more convenience. You won't regret buying a high-quality pair if you want to enjoy the best sound quality.

How Do Wireless Headphones Work?

The wireless headphones can be powered by batteries and pair with an infrared or radio signal. Bluetooth technology is available on many devices, which makes it easy to connect and provides high-quality audio.

How Do Noise-canceling Headphones Work?

Two types of noise-canceling exist: active and passive. Passive noise cancellation is where noise is blocked by headphones. Earbuds that are too close to your ears, such as over-the-ear or earbuds, can block the sound.
The active noise cancelling headphones feature a microphone to pick up noise and produce an opposing sound wave that blocks it.

Do I Need A Headphone Amplifier?

The quality of portable MP3/CD players' amplifiers can be affected by the headphones you use. They aren't responsible for this. The little guys must power both their electronic devices and internal amplifiers using very few volts. The sound quality of some home AV receivers with headphone jacks can be very variable.

What Is The Difference Between Headsets, Headphones, And Earphones?

- A headset is an amalgamation of headphones and microphones. Gaming headsets are most popular.
- Headphones can be worn on the ears or over-ear.
- Earphones can be described as small, earbud-shaped earbuds that are worn inside the ears.

If I Lose The Eartips That Came With My Headphones, Do I Need To Purchase A New Pair?

Absolutely, unless you are just trying something different. If you don't have the funds, you can contact the manufacturer to get a replacement pair. It can be frustrating to lose an earbud because they only have one size. Comply has a range of aftermarket tips to suit your brand if you are in an adventurous mood.

Does A Higher Price Tag Mean The Headphones Will Sound Better?

Not necessarily. It's surprising that so many people spend hundreds on smartphones but don't want to buy quality headphones. However, you shouldn't assume that all cheap headphones are equal.

Conclusion

It's challenging to determine the greatest product while deciding what to buy. We wanted to help you narrow things down by offering a list of most popular headphones above so you can make a better-educated decision before purchasing anything that might never work for you.

Would any of these ideas strike a chord with you? If that's the case, keep these in mind before making any purchases! You may also look into Bluetooth Headset with Microphone Wireless Headphones to find another option that is a good fit for you.


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About Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison is a writer and audio equipment enthusiast. He's particularly interested in home theater HiFi audio, and he has been the editor of The Audio Insights since its inception. Harlan is known for his sharp wit and scathing critiques, but he also has a great love of music and audio gear. When he's not writing or editing, Harlan can be found listening to music or watching movies with his wife.