Overview
- Jump To Details
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) With MagSafe Charging Case (USB‑C)
Best for iOS Integrations and Noise Cancellation - Jump To Details
Sennheiser HD 450BT
Best for Affordable Noise Cancellation - Jump To Details
Bose QuietComfort 45
Best Active Noise Cancellation - Jump To Details
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
Best Active Noise Cancellation Overall - Jump To Details
Sony WF-1000XM5
Best for Audiophiles - Jump To Details
Sony WH-1000XM5
Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Audiophiles - Jump To Details
Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC
Best ANC for under $100 - Jump To Details
JBL Endurance Peak 3
Best Value for Gym Goers - Jump To Details
Urbanista Los Angeles
Best for Eco-Conscious Music Lovers - Jump To Details
Apple AirPods Max
Luxurious Headphones for Apple Lovers - Jump To Details
Audio-Technica ATH-M20xBT
Best for Accurate Sub-Bass and Overall Clarity - Jump To Details
Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless
Best for Audiophiles Who Want Great ANC
The Best EOFY Headphones Deals Available Now
- Beats Studio Buds – True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds – A$148.56 (was $229.95, 35% off)
- RØDE NTH-100 Professional Over-Ear Headphones – A$189 (was $249, 24% off)
- Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro – A$182.21 (was $349, 44% off)
- Sony WH1000XM4 Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones – A$395 (was $549, 28% off)
- Sony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphones – A$189 (was $242, 22% off)
Check out more Australian electronics deals here.
Stereo headphones have been around since well before the first Sony Walkman, and that's roughly how long we've had to put up with tangled wires for on-the-go music listening. That's long enough if you ask us. Fortunately, wireless headphones now exist.
They're convenient for all those times you don't want to deal with dangling cables, such as at the gym or on public transportation. And now that many phone makers have ditched the headphone jack, wireless headphones are a great way to ensure cross-device compatibility. Wireless no longer means poor sound and battery life, either. Bluetooth headphones still compress hi-res audio, but new codecs preserve quality much better than in the past, and battery life has steadily improved with each new generation.
Below, you can find our top picks for wireless headphones and earphones across a wide range of prices and feature sets. And make sure to read through to the end for relevant buying advice.
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) With MagSafe Charging Case (USB‑C)
Best for iOS Integrations and Noise CancellationWhy We Picked It
The second-gen AirPods Pro deliver impressive noise cancellation, wiping out deep low rumble and dialing back complex higher-frequency sounds. Their adaptive transparency mode also successfully tamps down any audio spikes from your surroundings that exceed 85dB. Oh yeah, their audio performance is excellent, too.
Who It’s For
These earphones should suit anyone who wants seamless integration with Apple devices. Pairing is as simple as opening the case, and the iOS settings menu has an AirPods section that allows you to test the in-ear fit, personalize the spatial audio experience, and adjust the on-ear controls. We'd love to see a customizable EQ and a more robust waterproof rating, but these are still your best bet in Apple's current audio lineup.
Pros
- Rich, well-balanced audio performance
- Excellent active noise cancellation
- Conversation Aware feature adjusts your music volume when you speak
- Charging case has a built-in speaker, USB-C port
- Seamless integration with Apple devices
Cons
- No hi-res codec support
- EQ presets aren't adjustable
Sennheiser HD 450BT
Best for Affordable Noise CancellationBottom Line:
Sennheiser's HD 450BT headphones deliver excellent Bluetooth audio and solid noise cancellation for a bargain price.Pros
- Strong noise cancellation for the price
- Excellent audio performance
- Can be used in passive mode with cable, or wired mode with ANC enabled
- User-adjustable EQ
Cons
- Noise cancellation is solid, but not class-leading
Learn MoreSennheiser HD 450BT ReviewBose QuietComfort 45
Best Active Noise CancellationWhy We Picked It
The Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones deliver the best active noise cancellation you can get. They also sound quite good and live up to their name in the comfort department.
Who It’s For
If you want the best noise-cancelling headphones on the market, you should begin and end your search with the Bose QuietComfort 45.
Pros
- Best-in-class noise cancellation
- Sculpted audio with rich bass and crisp highs
- Exceptionally comfortable
Cons
- ANC can’t be adjusted
- Sound signature isn't accurate for true audiophiles
Learn MoreBose QuietComfort 45 ReviewBose QuietComfort Earbuds II
Best Active Noise Cancellation OverallWhy We Picked It
The QuietComfort Earbuds II offer the best noise cancellation you can get from earphones. They nearly make all deep, low-frequency rumble disappear and cut back highs extensively, too. Their audio drivers also sound pretty great, producing rich bass and sculpted (but balanced) highs.
Who It’s For
These are for people who want the most effective noise-cancelling earphones. And, unlike with the AirPods Pro, you get an adjustable EQ in the companion app. That's helpful for dialing down a bit of the sculpting, though plenty of listeners are sure to enjoy the default sound signature.
Pros
- Engaging audio performance with deep lows and bright highs
- Fantastic low- and high-frequency noise cancellation
- Useful Active Aware mode
- Water-resistant build
Cons
- No way to turn off noise cancellation altogether
- Case doesn't support wireless charging
Learn MoreBose QuietComfort Earbuds II ReviewSony WF-1000XM5
Best for AudiophilesWhy We Picked It
Bose has a slight edge in noise cancellation, but Sony's WF-1000XM5 earphones come very close. They also sound superb and offer top-notch mic quality. Rounding out the experience is a full-featured companion app with adjustable EQ, support for the AAC, LC3, and LDAC codecs, and a wireless charging case. We're also fans of their hybrid eartips that improve passive noise isolation and low-end response.
Who It's For
Audiophiles who want earphones that can block out distractions should look no further than the Sony WF-1000XM5. The latest high-end from Apple and Bose are competitive, but neither can match this pair's hi-res streaming capabilities.
Pros
- Rich bass response and crisp, detailed highs
- Adjustable in-app EQ
- Excellent noise cancellation
- Top-tier mic clarity
- Case supports wireless charging
- Hands-free Alexa and Google Assistant
Cons
- Expensive
- Some bloat in companion app
Learn MoreSony WF-1000XM5 ReviewSony WH-1000XM5
Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for AudiophilesWhy We Picked It
Although Bose takes a slight victory in active noise cancellation, Sony's WH-1000XM5 headphones offer an edge in audio quality. Their sound signature is a bit more accurate and they support the hi-res-capable LDAC codec.
Who It’s For
These headphones cost a lot, but excellent audio performance, an adjustable EQ, and highly effective ANC are all points in their favor. Other premium options might have an advantage in other categories, but these offer the best overall experience.
Pros
- Excellent audio performance with robust bass depth and crisp highs
- Top-notch active noise cancellation
- Intuitive on-ear controls
- App offers an adjustable EQ and other customization settings
- Comfortable, stylish design
Cons
- Expensive
Learn MoreSony WH-1000XM5 ReviewAnker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC
Best ANC for under $100Why We Picked It
The Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC earphones offer the best combination of sound quality and active noise cancellation below $100. Anker's companion app is another bright spot, with an intuitive interface, myriad ANC controls, and a customizable EQ.
Who It’s For
If your budget tops out at $100, these earphones are worth your attention. They cancel noise more effectively than similarly priced competitors and their battery life is above average, so they're a great choice for commuters and travelers. They don't sacrifice sound quality either and even support the high-end LDAC codec.
Pros
- Potent bass depth with bright highs
- Commendable noise cancellation for the price
- LDAC support for Android users
- Capable companion app includes EQ
Cons
- Default sound signature has noticeable sculpting
- Average water-resistance rating
Learn MoreAnker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC ReviewJBL Endurance Peak 3
Best Value for Gym GoersWhy We Picked It
With a completely waterproof, dustproof design and ear hooks that ensure a secure fit, the JBL Endurance Peak 3 earphones are ideal for runners. They also sound excellent and benefit from the comprehensive JBL companion app, which includes a customizable EQ.
Who It's For
If you just want earphones to pop in when you go for a run and don't care about active noise cancellation, these hit the sweet spot between price and performance.
Pros
- Powerful, bass-forward sound signature
- Fully waterproof, dust-tight design
- Highly adjustable and effective in-app EQ
- Strong battery life
Cons
- Massive, hard-to-open charging case
- Annoying auto-off function
Learn MoreJBL Endurance Peak 3 ReviewUrbanista Los Angeles
Best for Eco-Conscious Music LoversWhy We Picked It
The innovative Urbanista Los Angeles headphones use a Powerfoyle material on their exterior to charge via light—not just sunlight, but even light bulbs. Additionally, they produce rich sound and offer competent active noise cancellation. They aren't outstanding in either regard, but a competitive showing here is a huge step forward for eco-friendly tech.
Who It’s For
These headphones are a great choice if you want to shop in an eco-conscious way. But even if you don't care about green tech, the 80-hour battery life (if you even manage to drain them more quickly than ambient light can recharge them) makes them ideal for extended listening sessions. Yes, they have a USB-C port and ship with a charging cable, but if you rely on the solar battery tech, you won't ever have to clutter your desk with wires.
Pros
- Solar-powered charging
- Impressive audio performance with rich, deep bass and crisp highs
- Quality noise cancellation for the price
- Stylish design
Cons
- No in-app EQ
- Noise cancellation slightly impacts sound signature
Learn MoreUrbanista Los Angeles ReviewApple AirPods Max
Luxurious Headphones for Apple LoversWhy We Picked It
Everything about the AirPods Max is a bit over the top, from their size to their price. And yet their quality is undeniable. They're visually stunning and fit right within Apple's sleek design aesthetic. Additionally, they deliver an excellent listening experience and powerful active noise cancellation.
Who It’s For
These are best for Apple users who want wireless headphones that seamlessly integrate with their devices. There are some downsides—the price is high, the fit isn't universally comfortable, and the ANC circuitry uses an aggressively adaptive approach. But the drivers still produce a crisp, detailed listening experience and enable head-tracking spatial audio.
Pros
- Excellent audio performance with rich lows and crisp, detailed highs
- High-quality active noise cancellation, especially for low-frequency rumble
- Stunning, unique design
- Adaptive EQ and Spatial audio
- Hands-free Siri access
Cons
- Expensive
- Sound signature and Adaptive EQ/spatial audio aren't for purists
- No user-adjustable EQ
- Button placement makes it easy to misfire when adjusting fit
- Smart Case does little to protect the headphones
Learn MoreApple AirPods Max ReviewAudio-Technica ATH-M20xBT
Best for Accurate Sub-Bass and Overall ClarityWhy We Picked It
The Audio-Technica ATH-M20xBT headphones focus on accuracy, but still manage to faithfully reproduce sub-bass—a rare feat. They're a bit light on features and don't support any high-end Bluetooth codecs for Android users, but if you mainly listen on an iOS device (or use the wired audio cable), they offer fantastic sound for the price.
Who It’s For
If you want transparency, detail, and deep bass from your headphones, we highly recommend these for under $100. They don't ship with many extra features or accessories, but the refreshingly clear sound signature makes up for all that. The wired backup functionality also adds versatility.
Pros
- Affordable
- Excellent accuracy, especially in sub-bass range
- Comfortable fit
- Strong battery life
Cons
- A bit light on features
- No AptX support
Learn MoreAudio-Technica ATH-M20xBT ReviewSennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless
Best for Audiophiles Who Want Great ANCWhy We Picked It
We can safely say that the Bose and Sony flagship models lead the pack of noise-cancelling headphones, but the Sennheiser Momentum 4 over-ears look more stylish while also delivering top-notch audio and high-quality ANC.
Who It’s For
For fashionistas, these sophisticated headphones sport a premium gray fabric lining on the headband and a streamlined exterior. You also get a robust audio performance with support for the AptX Adaptive codec. And their active noise cancellation is still within the upper echelons of the market.
Pros
- Excellent audio performance with robust bass, detailed highs
- Effective noise cancellation
- Strong Bluetooth codec support
- Handsome design with easy-to-operate on-ear controls
Cons
- Underwhelming in-app EQ
- App sometimes has trouble connecting to headphones
Learn MoreSennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Review
Buying Guide: The Best Wireless Headphones for 2024
Should You Get Wireless Earphones or Headphones?
Earphones (or earbuds, or in-ear headphones) offer a slightly different sound profile compared with conventional headphones. Generally, you get better sound from a full set of "cans" around your head than from buds in your ears, but earphones now offer excellent sound quality. More importantly, they are much more appropriate for exercise because they are smaller and often moderately water-resistant. Headphones, on the other hand, turn into a nasty mess if you start sweating. For our top exercise picks, check out the best true wireless earphones for running.
At this point, most wireless earphones don't have a connecting wire like earlier iterations. Instead, you get two discrete earpieces and a charging case. Originally, this type of setup wasn't reliable, but you aren't likely to have any connection issues now. All of the earphones on this list are true wireless earphones.
If you aren't primarily looking for a set of wireless earphones for the gym (be sure to check the IP rating for water and sweat resistance), conventional headphones offer a much better listening experience. You still have to choose between on-ear and over-ear models, however. On-ear headphones rest against your ears but don't surround them, while over-ear headphones completely enclose them. The latter block out the most outside noise and usually provide more powerful, richer sound, but on-ear models are less bulky and distracting to wear.
And if you're shopping for your little one, we also have a collection of the best wired and wireless headphones for kids.
What's Noise Cancellation?
Headphones with active noise cancellation (ANC) use outward-facing microphones to pick up and analyze noise, which their internal circuitry then cancels by generating an inverse wave. This was previously an expensive, cumbersome technology, but advances in battery life and miniaturization mean you have more affordable options than ever. The top-end models are still quite pricey, but not everyone needs the absolute best performance. For more options, check out the best noise-cancelling headphones and the best noise-cancelling true wireless earphones.
Do You Need Apple's H2 Chip? What About Bluetooth Codecs?
If you're an iPhone user, consider buying a model with Apple's proprietary H2 (or older H1 or W1) chip. It makes Bluetooth pairing painless—there's no need to open the Settings menu because your phone automatically prompts you to connect whenever the headphones are nearby. The chip also improves connection stability and increases the wireless range. Currently, only Apple and Beats (which Apple owns) make headphones with this component.
Everyone—iPhone and Android users—needs to pay attention to which Bluetooth codecs their headphones support. Codecs determine how your device compresses audio streams before sending them to your headphones (most Bluetooth implementations don't currently support lossless audio streaming). You need to make sure that your headphones and phone support the same high-end codecs if you want the best listening experience. Our guide to Bluetooth codecs details everything you are likely to encounter and our reviews note which ones each model supports.
How Much Should You Spend on Wireless Headphones?
Although many entries in this roundup cost more than $100, you don't need to spend a lot of money to get quality audio. If you're shopping on a budget, head over to our roundup of the best headphones under $50 or under $100 for options that won't break the bank.
You're bound to find something that fits well, sounds great, and—above all—doesn't tie you up in knots. Once you pick the perfect pair, check out these five easy tips to extend the life of your headphones and the eight ways you're using your headphones wrong. And if you want to share your tunes with others, look no further than our favorite wireless speakers.
