Best Headphones for Audiophiles in 2023

Headphones are a ubiquitous accessory in our daily lives. Whether we’re commuting to work, working out at the gym, or just relaxing at home, headphones allow us to immerse ourselves in our favorite music, podcasts, or audiobooks. With so many options available, it can be challenging to find the right pair of headphones that meet our specific needs.

When it comes to selecting the best headphones, there are several critical factors to consider. One of the most important is the type of headphones. There are three main types of headphones: over-ear, on-ear, and in-ear. Over-ear headphones are the largest and provide the most significant sound quality and noise isolation. On-ear headphones are smaller and sit on top of the ear, providing a balance between comfort and sound quality. In-ear headphones are the smallest and fit directly into the ear canal, making them the most portable and convenient option.

Another critical factor to consider when selecting headphones is the sound quality. The quality of sound is dependent on several factors, including the size of the driver, the frequency response, and the impedance. Larger drivers generally produce more significant sound, while a broader frequency response provides a more balanced sound. Impedance refers to the resistance of the headphones and can affect the volume and quality of sound.

We spent hours researching and testing ten different headphones to identify the best headphones on the market. Our testing process included evaluating the sound quality, comfort, durability, and overall value of each pair. By the end of our testing, we were confident in our selection of the top headphones that would meet the needs of any user.

Best Headphones

We have tested and reviewed a variety of headphones to bring you the best options on the market. Whether you’re looking for noise-cancelling headphones for travel or wireless headphones for working out, we’ve got you covered. Our top picks offer superior sound quality, comfort, and durability. Check out our roundup below to find the perfect pair of headphones for you.

Soundcore Space One Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

We highly recommend the Soundcore Space One Active Noise Cancelling Headphones for anyone looking for a high-quality, wireless headphone experience with top-notch noise-canceling technology.

Pros

• The 2X Stronger Voice Reduction feature makes it easy to focus on your music or calls, even in noisy environments.
• With up to 98% noise reduction, these headphones create a peaceful listening experience, no matter where you are.
• The 40-hour battery life with ANC on ensures that you can enjoy your music for days on end without worrying about running out of power.

Cons

• The headphones can feel a bit tight on larger heads, which may cause discomfort over prolonged use.
• The retractable cable can sometimes get tangled, making it difficult to use.
• The price point may be a bit high for some users, but the quality and features make it worth the investment.

These headphones are crafted for comfort and style, with 8° rotating ear cups that conform to the contours of any head, and a soft integrated headband that evenly distributes pressure for natural, prolonged wear. The 40mm customized dynamic drivers support LDAC for Hi-Res Wireless audio, delivering 3X more detail than standard Bluetooth codecs for detail-rich listening without any tangled wires.

The Soundcore Space One Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are perfect for those who want to enjoy their music without being disturbed by outside noise. With its adaptive noise canceling technology, the headphones detect external sounds and sound leakage, auto-calibrating to deliver optimal noise reduction. This makes it perfect for use on noisy trains, in bustling cafes, or any other environment where you want to escape unwanted distractions.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a high-quality, wireless headphone experience with top-notch noise-canceling technology, the Soundcore Space One Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are an excellent choice. The combination of comfort, style, and sound quality make them a great investment for anyone who wants to enjoy their music without being disturbed by outside noise.

Google Pixel Buds Pro

If you’re looking for high-quality earbuds that offer noise cancellation, great sound quality, and seamless connectivity, then the Google Pixel Buds Pro is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The Active Noise Cancellation with Silent Seal adapts to your ear and helps block outside sounds, creating a quiet foundation so your music can shine.
• Custom 11 mm speaker drivers and Volume EQ sound amazing at any volume, and the app tells you how loud you’ve been listening to music over time and offers ways to adjust to help you maintain your hearing wellness.
• The battery life is impressive, with up to 11 hours of listening time, or up to 31 hours with the charging case. You can charge them wirelessly with Pixel Stand or other Qi-certified chargers.

Cons

• The earbuds may not fit comfortably in everyone’s ears, and some users may experience discomfort or pain after extended periods of use.
• The touch controls can be a bit finicky and take some getting used to.
• The price point is on the higher side, which may not be feasible for everyone.

In our experience, the Google Pixel Buds Pro offer a great audio experience with their custom 11 mm speaker drivers and Volume EQ. The Active Noise Cancellation with Silent Seal is a standout feature that adapts to your ear and helps block outside sounds, creating a quiet foundation so your music can shine. The battery life is also impressive, with up to 11 hours of listening time, or up to 31 hours with the charging case. However, some users may find the earbuds uncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time, and the touch controls can be a bit finicky. Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality pair of earbuds that offer noise cancellation and great sound quality, then the Google Pixel Buds Pro are definitely worth considering.

Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

If you’re looking for a pair of headphones that can provide you with incredible sound quality and active noise cancellation, then the Soundcore Anker Life Q20 headphones are definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The custom oversized 40 mm dynamic drivers produce Hi-Res sound, making it possible to hear every detail in your music.
• With up to 40 hours of non-stop playtime in wireless active noise cancellation mode, you can listen to music for hours on end without worrying about the battery life.
• The BassUp technology conducts real-time analysis of the low frequencies to instantly strengthen the bass output, making it perfect for bass-heavy genres like EDM and hip-hop.

Cons

• The noise cancellation feature doesn’t completely eliminate all external sounds, but it does reduce them significantly.
• The headphones can feel a bit heavy after extended use.
• The touch controls can be a bit finicky and take some getting used to.

We were impressed with the sound quality of the Soundcore Anker Life Q20 headphones, especially when it came to the bass output. The BassUp technology really makes a difference, and it’s easy to hear the difference when you double-press the play button. The 40-hour battery life is also a huge plus, as it means you can listen to music for hours on end without worrying about the battery life.

However, the noise cancellation feature isn’t perfect, and it doesn’t completely eliminate all external sounds. It does reduce them significantly, though, making it easier to focus on your music. The headphones can also feel a bit heavy after extended use, so it’s important to take breaks every so often. Additionally, the touch controls can be a bit finicky and take some getting used to, but once you get the hang of them, they’re easy to use.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the Soundcore Anker Life Q20 headphones to anyone looking for a pair of headphones with great sound quality and active noise cancellation.

Bose QuietComfort 45 Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones

If you’re looking for a high-quality pair of headphones with noise-canceling capabilities, the Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones are a great option. With their comfortable design and advanced features, these headphones offer an exceptional listening experience.

Pros

• The noise-canceling technology is top-notch, allowing you to enjoy your music without any distractions from the outside world.
• The sound quality is impressive, with deep bass and clear treble that makes your music sound better than ever.
• The battery life is excellent, with up to 22 hours of use on a single charge.

Cons

• These headphones are quite expensive, so they may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget.
• The design is not very stylish, so they may not be the best choice for those who want a more fashionable pair of headphones.
• The touch controls can be a bit finicky, so it may take some time to get used to them.

Overall, we highly recommend the Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones to anyone who wants a high-quality pair of headphones with noise-canceling capabilities. With their advanced features and exceptional sound quality, these headphones are sure to impress.

Peakfun Wireless Headphones

If you’re looking for headphones that are comfortable and offer great sound quality, then the Peakfun Wireless Headphones are a great choice.

Pros

• The soft padded ear cushions offer great comfort and noise isolation.
• The headphone is foldable and lightweight, making it easy to carry around.
• The headphones provide 42 hours of playtime in wireless mode after a single charge.

Cons

• The headphones may not fit all head sizes comfortably.
• The sound quality may not be as good as some higher-end headphones.
• The headphones may not be as durable as some other models.

We found that the Peakfun Wireless Headphones are very comfortable to wear, even for long periods of time. The ear cushions are soft and provide good noise isolation, making them a great choice for use in noisy environments.

The headphones are also very lightweight and foldable, making them easy to carry around. The 90° swiveling ear cups also make them a great choice for single-ear listening.

We were also impressed with the battery life of the Peakfun Wireless Headphones. They provide up to 42 hours of playtime in wireless mode after a single charge, which is great for long trips or extended use.

However, we did find that the headphones may not fit all head sizes comfortably. Some users may find that the headphones are too tight or too loose, depending on their head size.

Additionally, while the sound quality is good for the price, it may not be as good as some higher-end headphones. If you’re an audiophile, you may want to consider a more expensive model.

Finally, the headphones may not be as durable as some other models. We found that the build quality was good for the price, but they may not hold up as well over time as more expensive headphones.

Overall, we would recommend the Peakfun Wireless Headphones to anyone looking for a comfortable and affordable pair of headphones with good sound quality.

Marshall Major IV On-Ear Bluetooth Headphone

We highly recommend the Marshall Major IV On-Ear Bluetooth Headphone for anyone in search of a high-quality headphone that delivers great sound quality and comfort.

Pros

• The custom-tuned dynamic drivers deliver roaring bass, smooth mids, and brilliant treble for a rich, unrivaled sound that you’ll never want to turn off.
• With 80+ solid hours of wireless playtime and quick-charge capability, you can enjoy your music for long periods without worrying about the battery life.
• The improved ergonomic design and softer ear cushions make it comfortable to wear for extended periods.

Cons

• The wireless charging pad is not included in the box.
• The sound quality may not be suitable for audiophiles.
• The headphones may not fit well for people with larger head sizes.

The Marshall Major IV On-Ear Bluetooth Headphone has a lot of features that make it stand out from the competition. The multi-directional control knob allows you to play, pause, skip, and adjust the volume of your device, as well as power your headphones on or off. The phone functionality is also included so you can answer, reject, or end a call with a few simple clicks.

The design of the headphones is both iconic and innovative. The folding clip means that Major IV folds away into an even more compact size, and the ear caps are protected from too much wear and tear. The headphones also feature a 3.5 mm socket so a friend can plug in and enjoy your music.

The Marshall Major IV On-Ear Bluetooth Headphone is a great choice for anyone looking for comfortable, high-quality headphones to pair with their laptop accessories.

mojawa Run Plus Bone Conduction Headphones

We highly recommend the mojawa Run Plus Bone Conduction Headphones for anyone looking for a comfortable and high-quality audio experience while remaining aware of their surroundings.

Pros

• The open-ear design ensures complete awareness of your surroundings for safety, making it ideal for sports, work, and everyday use.
• The built-in music player comes with a 32GB memory card that can store up to 8000 songs or audiobooks without a phone, and it can also be connected via Bluetooth 5.2.
• The headphones are IP68 waterproof rated and can be submerged 2 meters underwater for up to 2 hours, making them perfect for swimmers.

Cons

• The volume controls can be difficult to figure out, requiring swiping up/down on the flat area behind the ear on the right side.
• The MP3 drive can become corrupted and there is no way to fix it.
• The instructions on how to use the headphones can be confusing and not completely intuitive.

We found the mojawa Run Plus Bone Conduction Headphones to be a great option for those who prefer an open-ear design for safety and comfort. The audio quality is exceptional, with deep, rich bass and detailed sound across the entire audio spectrum, thanks to the five Grammy-winning audio producers who fine-tuned and endorsed the headphones. The 8-hour playtime with fast charge is also a great feature, providing continuous music and podcasts during training.

The headphones come with a carry bag, magnetic charging cable, manual, and earplugs. The lightweight and comfortable design makes them perfect for cycling, running, gym, swimming, workout, and other sports. Overall, we think the mojawa Run Plus Bone Conduction Headphones are a great investment for anyone looking for a high-quality audio experience while remaining aware of their surroundings.

AYVVPII Silent Disco Headphones

If you’re looking for a unique and stylish way to enjoy your music, the AYVVPII Silent Disco Headphones are a great choice. With LED lights that pulse to the beat of the music and a well-balanced, high-definition sound, these headphones are perfect for any Silent Disco party.

Pros

• The LED lights on the headphones add a fun and stylish element to any Silent Disco party.
• The ability to add more transmitters and headphones means that you can easily expand your Silent Disco setup.
• The sound quality is top-notch, providing a well-balanced and high-definition listening experience.

Cons

• The headphones may not be comfortable for extended periods of use, as they can feel a bit heavy on the head.
• The LED lights can be distracting for some users, especially in dark environments.
• The headphones may not be suitable for all types of music, as the sound quality can be affected by certain genres.

We recently had the chance to test out the AYVVPII Silent Disco Headphones, and we were impressed by their overall performance. The LED lights on the headphones are a great addition, providing a fun and stylish element to any Silent Disco party. The ability to add more transmitters and headphones means that you can easily expand your Silent Disco setup, making it perfect for larger events.

In terms of sound quality, the AYVVPII Silent Disco Headphones deliver a well-balanced and high-definition listening experience. The advanced 40mm speakers provide a clear and crisp sound, making it easy to enjoy your favorite tunes. When not being used for Silent Disco parties, the headphones can be used as standard headphones by connecting them to your phone using a 3.5mm cable.

Overall, we would highly recommend the AYVVPII Silent Disco Headphones to anyone looking for a unique and stylish way to enjoy their music. With their LED lights, high-definition sound, and expandable setup, these headphones are a great choice for any Silent Disco party.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying headphones, there are several factors you should consider to make the best purchase. Here are some features to look out for:

Type of Headphones

Headphones come in different types, including earbuds, on-ear, and over-ear. In-ear headphones are small, lightweight, and portable, making them ideal for working out or traveling. On-ear headphones are larger and rest on the ear, providing better sound quality and noise isolation. Over-ear headphones are the largest and provide the best sound quality and noise isolation.

Sound Quality

Sound quality is a crucial factor to consider when buying headphones. Look for headphones with a wide frequency range, high sensitivity, and low distortion. The frequency range determines the range of sounds that the headphones can produce, while sensitivity determines how loud the headphones can get. Low distortion ensures that the sound is clear and accurate.

Comfort

Comfort is essential, especially if you plan to wear your headphones for extended periods. Look for headphones with soft ear cushions, adjustable headbands, and lightweight materials. Over-ear headphones are generally the most comfortable, followed by on-ear and in-ear headphones.

Connectivity

Headphones can connect to your device via wired or wireless connections. Wired headphones provide better sound quality, while wireless headphones offer more convenience and freedom of movement. Look for headphones with Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to connect to multiple devices and offers a range of up to 30 feet.

Additional Features

Some headphones come with additional features, such as noise cancellation, voice assistants, and touch controls. Noise cancellation blocks out external noise, while voice assistants allow you to control your device hands-free. Touch controls allow you to adjust volume, skip tracks, and answer calls without touching your device.

Headphones are some of the best computer accessories available. By considering these factors, you can choose the best headphones that suit your needs and preferences.