The Best Wireless Headphones for Your Money

There are tons of wireless headphones that offer the essentials: excellent sound quality, reliable connectivity and a comfortable fit. Some deliver audiophile-level performance while others keep it simple, with the main draws being that they’re affordable and small enough to tuck in any pocket.

Wireless headphones — also called Bluetooth headphones since that’s the wireless technology they use — can cost as little as $50 or less, and go up to over $350.

So, how much should you be spending? Everyday users are generally happy with the basic, punchy bass notes from headphones or earbuds in the lower end of the price range. Many models costing around $150 provide clear, detailed sound, and even give you the power to customize the sound with an in-app equalizer (EQ). High-end headphones, on the other hand, have more advanced features such as multiple levels of noise cancellation or sensors that analyze your surroundings and even your ear's shape to optimize sound quality.

Whether you want absolute control over your listening experience or are just looking for some affordable headphones that get the job done, we rounded up the highest-rated wireless headphones in 2023 for you to choose from. When you’re browsing similar models, the deciding factor might come down to small details like the placement of playback buttons, battery life or even brand preference. But the first thing to consider is the style of headphone design you want.

The Best Wireless Headphones: On-Ear, Over-Ear or In-Ear?

Wireless headphones follow one of three main designs: on-ear, over-ear or in-ear. Other than the clear difference between how they fit on, around or in your ear canal, the design can impact their overall comfort and, most importantly, how well they transmit sound and shut out ambient noise.

The earcups on over-ear models completely enclose your ears and typically deliver the best sound quality and noise cancellation. Since they enclose the ear, these headphones can keep out external noise and reduce “noise leakage” (when people around you can hear what you’re listening to) better than other models, creating a more immersive sound experience.

The earcups of on-ear headphones rest directly on top of your ears, without surrounding them. There are on-ear models capable of producing rich sound, and many include noise-cancellation features. However, their design doesn’t allow for a tight seal over the ears, so they're less effective at reducing outside noise and noise leakage. In terms of portability, on-ear headphones are typically less bulky and lighter than over-the-ears models, which makes them more suitable for people who are constantly on the go.

Lastly, in-ear headphones (more commonly known simply as earbuds or earphones) fit inside or just outside your ear canal. The two earpieces can either have a cable that connects the two and rests on the back of your neck or be true wireless earbuds, which are completely wire-free (think Apple AirPods). These devices are ultra-portable and a favorite for workouts, and some are even completely waterproof.

While earbuds traditionally haven’t been known to have the best sound quality, some newer models can rival or outmatch some on- and over-ear headphones in the $50 to $250 price range. Their battery life is not as long per charge when compared to on- and over-ear headphones, however — they last 10 hours or less while their counterparts offer somewhere between 20 and 50 hours of battery.

Choosing between the three designs is a matter of preference and convenience, as well as your budget. Do you want to hear every note of your favorite song in crisp, clear detail without noise intrusion from the outside world? Go for an over-ear model. Do you care about sound quality but prefer a more compact design? An on-ear design could be for you. But if all you need is absolute portability, an in-ear model will do the trick.

Bluetooth Headphones Buying Guide

Beyond the design choices, here are some factors to consider when comparing wireless models:

• Battery life. As mentioned above, the battery life for wireless headphones can vary widely. Certain earbuds may only work for four hours or so (sometimes less) before needing a recharge, while some other headphones have enough juice to last over two days.

Obviously, headphones with a longer battery life are more convenient. But as you'd expect, generally speaking, the longer the battery lasts, the higher the price. (Also, beware that some manufacturer claims about battery life are overstated, which is why you should look closely at user reviews and third-party testing.) Some headphones have a very handy quick-charging feature that gives the battery several hours of usage after being on the charger for only 15 minutes.

• Closed- or open-back wireless headphones. The earcups on over- and on-ear headphones can have a closed or open back. Closed-back headphones trap sound, preventing leakage and keeping ambient noise at bay. These are the best choice if you’re planning to use headphones in very noisy environments. They produce deep sounds where bass notes resonate clearly, although they can sometimes cause some discomfort due to the built-up pressure from the bass.

On the other hand, the sound in open-back headphones flows freely. This means that they won’t block out ambient noise, and people around you might hear whatever you’re listening to. This seems like a downside but many audiophiles prefer this design since it’s known to provide the clearest, most balanced sound. These might not be the best choice, however, if you’re planning to take your headphones to the office.

• Active noise cancellation. If your headphones enclose your ears or have foam tips that stick right into your ear canal, they probably shut out some level of ambient noise — just like sticking your fingers in your ears would. This is known as passive noise canceling or noise isolation. However, more and more headphones now include what is known as active noise cancellation (ANC), a feature that can sometimes make it feel as if the outside world has gone mute.

There’s a very physics-heavy explanation of how ANC works that involves the constitution of sound waves, how they travel and how ears pick up certain frequencies. To keep it simple, headphones with ANC have microphones that detect noises around you. Once those sound waves are analyzed, the headphones generate a reverse version of them that basically cancels them out.

For example, imagine you’re on a train, with people talking around you. The headphones will detect their chatter, as well as the rumbling of the train, and feed identical (but reversed) wavelengths to your earcups that prevent your ears from hearing the people or the train.

This noise-canceling technology used to be exclusive to high-end Bluetooth headphones, but you can now find headphones for under $200 that are pretty good at it. They won’t be as effective as a $350 model, but they get the job done if all you need is a low level of noise cancellation.

Note that models with high levels of noise cancellation can cause a little discomfort (sometimes even headaches) in some users, especially after long periods of uninterrupted use. If you’re not sure how you might handle it, get a model with adjustable levels, or only use the cancellation feature for short periods of time.

Reviewing the Top Wireless Headphones of 2023

Best Overall: TREBLAB Hybrid Active Noise-Cancelling Headphones

List Price: $159.97

Check on Amazon

Headphone design: Over-ear | Noise-canceling: Yes | Weight: 8.6 oz | Battery life: 45 hours

Immerse yourself in an unparalleled audio experience with TREBLAB’s flagship over-ear headphones. Boasting aptX-HD sound technology, these headphones redefine the essence of high-definition audio. The 40mm drivers, crafted with precision, deliver a harmonious blend of deep bass and crystal-clear highs, ensuring a truly balanced stereo sound that resonates with every note.

Step into a realm of tranquility with the Z7 Pro's state-of-the-art hybrid active noise cancellation. Equipped with six environmental sensors, these headphones automatically switch to transparency mode, allowing you to stay connected with your surroundings when needed. Indulge in supreme comfort as you rediscover your favorite tunes. The ultra-soft protein leather and cloud-like memory foam ensure a luxurious feel during prolonged use. Designed for convenience, these Bluetooth headphones can be easily folded, making these best overall headphones your ideal companion on the go.

Pros

• Noise-canceling features
• Cloud-like memory foam
• Long-lasting battery life

Cons

• Little pricey for some

Runner-up: Cubitt Tracking Technologies Wireless Earbuds

List Price: $34.95

Check on Amazon

Headphone design: In-ear | Noise-canceling: No | Weight: 6.4 oz | Battery life: 4-8 hours

The Cubitt Tracking Technologies Wireless Earbuds are a cutting-edge innovation that is sure to redefine your auditory experience. Immerse yourself in a world of unparalleled sound quality and wireless freedom like never before. These earbuds are meticulously crafted to deliver an exceptional audio journey. They ensure that every note and beat resonates with crystal clarity.

You can lose yourself in the music without worrying about tangles or restrictions because the wireless design allows for unrestrained movement. The ergonomic fit guarantees hours of comfort as well. These earbuds stand out not only for their exceptional audio performance but also for their intelligent features. With touch-sensitive controls, managing your music and calls is effortless. You can play, pause, skip tracks, or answer calls with a simple touch.

Pros

• Crystal clear sound quality and clarity
• Seamless connectivity for uninterrupted listening
• Long-lasting battery life

Cons

• Limited color options

Editor's choice: TREBLAB Over-Ear Workout Headphones

List Price: $119.97

Check on Amazon

Headphone design: Over-ear | Noise-cancelling: Yes | Weight: 8.47 oz | Battery life: 35 hours

Elevate your workout sessions with the TREBLAB Over-Ear Workout Headphones. They are the perfect fusion of performance, style, and comfort. Designed to meet the demands of your active lifestyle, these headphones redefine how you experience music during your fitness journey. Engineered with precision, they deliver unparalleled sound quality. That way, they can energize your every move and make every beat feel like a personal concert in your ears.

Immerse yourself in the motivating rhythm of your favorite tracks without worrying about your comfort or how they fit. These workout-friendly headphones feature an ergonomic design. That way, they can stay securely in place no matter how intense your exercise routine gets. With a comfortable over-ear fit and an adjustable headband, these headphones guarantee hours of uninterrupted listening pleasure.

Pros

• Unmatched sound quality
• Sweatproof durability and reliability
• Long-lasting battery life

Cons

• Bulkier compared to in-ear headphones

Best design: Turonic Waterproof Wireless Earbuds

List Price: $69.97

Check on Amazon

Headphone design: In-ear | Ear cup: No | Noise-canceling: No | Weight: 3.37 oz | Battery life: 45 hours

The Turonic Waterproof Wireless Earbuds are the ideal companion for an active lifestyle. Dive into the world of superior sound quality and ultimate convenience with these state-of-the-art earbuds. Crafted to withstand the elements, these earbuds deliver a remarkable listening experience that knows no boundaries. With these earbuds, the possibilities are limitless.

Experience the freedom of movement as you go about your day. The wireless design eliminates the hassle of tangled cords. Plus, not only are these earbuds stylish but they are ergonomically designed to fit snugly and securely in your ears as well. In turn, they ensure hours of clear and comfortable listening. The waterproof and sweatproof construction guarantees that nothing holds you back as well.

Pros

• Exceptional audio performance and clarity
• Waterproof and sweatproof design
• Extended battery life for continuous playback

Cons

• Fit for active lifestyles

Editor's pick: Sony WH-1000XM4 Headphones

List Price: $349.99

Check on Amazon | Check on Walmart

Headphone design: Over-ear | Earcup: Closed-back | Noise-cancelling: Yes | Weight: 8.95oz | Battery life: 30 hours

Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones boast stellar sound quality and some of the best noise-canceling capabilities around. These headphones deliver powerful bass, smooth clear vocals and crisp high notes. Best of all, the already well-balanced sound can be tweaked using a five-band equalizer (EQ) available through Sony’s mobile app — ideal for those with highly perceptive ears or just anyone who would like to turn up the bass on their favorite tunes.

The app gives you access to even more audio settings such as DSEE Extreme. According to Sony, this technology uses artificial intelligence to enhance the quality of compressed audio. It might not make a difference if you’re using a music streaming service like Spotify with the audio quality set on high, but it can be useful, say, watching YouTube videos with low-quality audio.

When it comes to noise cancellation, the WH-1000XM4 can block ambient noise exceptionally well (or at least reduce it significantly) so you can be fully immersed in your music, podcasts or shows. You can choose how much noise you want to be blocked or set it to self-adjust according to your surroundings. (Equalizer settings and volume levels may also be set to change automatically based on how loud or quiet the area is.)

The WH-1000XM4 also features a lightweight, comfortable build and up to 30 hours of battery life, making these the perfect headphones to elevate your sound experience wherever you go.

Pros

• Sensors automatically adjust settings based on surroundings
• Very good sound quality with Bluetooth connectivity
• Long battery life of up to 20 hours
• Automatic voice detection to pause music

Cons

• Expensive at around $350
• Touch controls may be too sensitive

Best for workouts: Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700

List Price: $379.00

Check on Amazon | Check on Walmart

Headphone design: Over-ear | Ear cup: Closed-back | Noise-cancelling: Yes | Weight: 8.96 oz | Battery life: 20 hours

Bose has a reputation for producing high-quality devices that deliver impeccable sound — and the Noise Cancelling 700 headphones are no exception. These wireless headphones are on par with Sony’s WH-1000XM4, and the differences between them in terms of performance are so subtle that choosing one over the other may come down simply to brand preference.

This pair of wireless headphones offer the well-balanced listening experience Bose is known for, and they can be adjusted as necessary with the EQ. The noise canceling capabilities are just as good as the WH-1000XM4’s; in fact, some reviewers say the Bose model is a smidge above its competitor in this aspect.

Noise cancellation can be adjusted from level 10 — which drastically reduces everything you may hear during a train ride or other busy settings — to level 0. At level 0, the headphones pick up ambient noise and adjust volume levels so you can listen to your surroundings as clearly as you would without them on.

The Bose headphones do seem to outshine Sony’s model in microphone clarity, which especially comes in handy when making phone calls with them. The Noise Cancelling 700’s microphone system can isolate your voice even in the noisiest places, like a coffee shop in the middle of lunch hour. These microphones also actively reduce surrounding noise levels so callers hear you and nothing else. This same feature helps voice assistants like Siri, Google Assistant and Amazon's Alexa understand your commands every time.

On the downside, the Noise Cancelling 700 promises up to 20 hours of battery life, or 10 hours less than the Sony WH-1000XM4, and costs around $30 more than the Sony — which retails for around $350. But if you’re a fan of the unmistakable Bose sound, these are the wireless headphones for you.

Pros

• Sound quality is crisp, rich and clear
• Comfortable padding with soft headband and earcups
• Easy-to-use buttons and features with built-in Alexa
• Ten levels of noise cancellation

Cons

• Carrying case may be bulky
• Battery life could be longer

High-quality choice: Sennheiser HD 450BT Bluetooth 5.0 Headphones

List Price: $199.95

Check on Amazon | Check on Walmart

Headphone design: Over-ear | Ear cup: Closed-back | Noise-cancelling: Yes | Weight: 8.39 oz | Battery life: 30 hours

For around $200, Sennheiser’s HD 450BT headphones offer solid audio quality with bassy sound and solid noise cancellation. They won’t eliminate environmental noise as effectively as more expensive models do, but these can muffle most sounds well enough to provide a comfortable listen. Buttons built into the right earcup allow you to control playback, volume and calls. There’s also a dedicated virtual assistant button.

These headphones are not the most feature-packed, but considering their $200 price tag they're a terrific value. You’ll get outstanding sound that can be further tweaked with the Sennheiser’s Smart Control app, and also have control over how much ambient noise you filter out.

Pros

• Comfortable design with a 30-hour battery life
• High-quality audio with full range of frequency
• Active noise cancellation for reducing distractions
• EQ customization available with the Sennheiser app

Cons

• Noise cancellation could be better
• Limited customization options

Best for low prices: Jabra Elite 45h On-ear Wireless Headphones

List Price: $99.99

Check on Amazon

Headphone design: On-ear | Ear cup: Closed-back | Noise-canceling: No | Weight: 5.64 oz | Battery life: 50 hours

For only $100, the Jabra Elite 45h packs superb sound quality that’s more than enough to satisfy everyday users who enjoy punchy bass lines, clear vocals and are not concerned about the high-fidelity reproduction of every single detail in their setlist.

These headphones are foldable, weigh just under 6 ounces and can hold a 50-hour charge — in fact, only a 15-minute charge is enough to keep them running for up to 10 hours. This makes them an excellent option for anyone who is constantly on the go. One drawback, however, is the lack of active noise canceling — the use of microphones to detect and reduce ambient noise — which would be helpful in noisy settings.

Pros

• A 15-minute charge provides 10 hours of battery
• Comfortable earpads, even when wearing glasses
• Excellent sound quality and clarity
• Easy-to-use controls with intuitive placement

Cons

• No noise cancellation feature
• Bass may be lower than desired

Best for low prices runner-up: Anker Soundcore Life Q30 Headphones

List Price: $79.99

Check on Amazon | Check on Walmart

Headphone design: Over-ear | Ear cup: Closed-back | Noise-cancelling: Yes | Weight: 9.2 oz | Battery life: 40 hours

If you were hoping to get some level of active noise cancellation from budget-friendly headphones, along with great sound, consider the Anker Soundcore Life Q30.

Generally speaking, budget-friendly Bluetooth headphones don’t provide the best noise cancellation. However, the Soundcore Life Q30 headphones are more than effective, especially considering the affordable price ($80). You can choose between several noise-reduction settings based on your location such as indoor, outdoor or if you're traveling.

Pros

• Battery life lasts up to 40 hours
• Customizable equalizer saves your preferred settings
• Comfortable design for long listening sessions
• Quick charging and compatibility with different chargers

Cons

• The noise-canceling feature could be better
• Touch controls may be a little sensitive

Best true wireless earbuds: Jabra Elite 75t True Wireless Earbuds

List Price: $54.99

Check on Amazon | Check on Walmart

Headphone design: In-ear | Noise-cancelling: Yes | Weight: 0.19 oz per earbud | Earbud battery life: 7.5 hours per charge | Charging case size: 2.4”L x 1.4”W x 1.06”H | Charging case weight: 1.2 oz

The Jabra Elite 75t are true wireless earbuds that offer a sleek look, a comfortable design, ultra-portability, noise cancellation and superb sound quality that can be tuned to your liking, all for only $55. ("True wireless" refers to earbuds that don’t have any cables connecting the two earpieces together.)

Pressing the left earbud once activates HearThrough mode, which stops playback and slightly amplifies noises around you so you can quickly jump into conversations without taking the earbuds off. A similar feature is found on the AirPods Pro (which often sell for $200), but the Elite 75t have an edge over the Apple model when it comes to battery life. While the battery on the AirPods Pro lasts less than five hours on a single charge, the one on the Elite 75t can last up to seven hours. Another advantage of this pick is that they can remember up to eight previously connected devices and pair to two simultaneously at any time.

These wireless earbuds have an IP55 rating, which means they can withstand some water and dust. So for those interested in using their earbuds during more rugged outdoor adventures, consider the Jabra Elite Active 75t earbuds for $150, which are completely waterproof and dustproof.

Pros

• Multipoint connectivity to use two devices simultaneously
• Microphone and sound quality are great
• Easy and intuitive to pair with devices
• Adjustable sound levels with a tuning app

Cons

• Call quality isn’t the greatest
• Compatibility with Windows devices could be better

Best Apple earbuds: Apple AirPods Pro

List Price: $249.00

Check on Amazon | Check on Walmart

Headphone design: In-ear | Noise-cancelling: Yes | Weight: 0.19 oz per earbud | Earbud battery life: 4.5 hours per charge | Charging case size: 2.36”L x 0.85”W x 1.78”H | Charging case weight: 1.61 oz

Apple undoubtedly popularized true wireless earbuds with the release of the AirPods back in 2016. Since then, two more AirPod generations have been released and other companies have entered the market.

If you're a fan of Apple’s interface and its streamlined setup with other Apple products, then the top-of-the-line AirPods Pro are what you need.

The AirPods Pro come with three different sizes of ear tips to ensure a precise fit in your ear canal, creating an excellent seal. This helps them achieve levels of noise cancellation that can almost rival over-ear headphones (almost, not quite though). The sound quality is already great out of the box, but a feature called Adaptive EQ can detect the shape of your ear to adjust your music’s bass, vocals and other details to create a more immersive sound experience without generating distortion. One drawback for many users is the “tapping” controls, which can be sensitive and may cause users to change the settings unintentionally.

AirPods Pro and all versions of the original AirPods are, of course, known for their easy integration with Apple’s iPhones and Macs, but they can also be used with Android devices.

Pros

• Sleek, comfortable design creates a noise-isolating seal
• Seamless setup and connection
• Excellent noise cancellation
• Long battery life

Cons

• Earbuds don't feature built-in audio control
• Only three size choices for silicone tips

Why Trust Us

Our commitment to the consumer begins with product selection and ends with the last word we write in each article. Each pair of wireless headphones is carefully vetted quantitatively through star ratings and the number of reviews qualitatively through careful examination of reviews and the features each one has to offer. Leveraging our team of bargain hunters, we’re also always sure to keep your budget in mind while we find the best wireless headphones on the market. Our team of experts is dedicated to accurately depicting the pros and cons of each pair of wireless headphones, translating technical product specifications into information you can understand. Our goal is to help you get the finest audio quality and listening experience that money can buy.

More From Money:

The Best Headphones for Running, Working From Home, Meditating and More

The Best Bluetooth Speakers for Your Money