10 Best Headphones 2026 in the United States

The Bose QuietComfort Wireless Headphones are over-ear headphones designed to offer strong noise cancellation, making them a great choice for anyone wanting to block out outside noise during travel, work, or relaxation. They feature active noise cancellation combined with passive sound isolation, and offer two listening modes—Quiet and Aware—so you can either immerse yourself fully in music or stay alert to your surroundings when needed. Sound quality is high with balanced armature drivers and an adjustable equalizer via the Bose app, letting you customize bass, mids, and treble to your liking. Battery life is impressive, providing up to 24 hours of wireless playtime with a fast USB-C charge option that adds 2.5 hours after just 15 minutes.

Comfort-wise, the plush over-ear cushions and padded headband make them suitable for long listening sessions without discomfort. They also include a detachable cable with an inline microphone and controls, so you can switch to wired use if the battery runs out or if you prefer a wired connection. Multipoint Bluetooth lets you easily connect to multiple devices without hassle. On the downside, these headphones are not water-resistant, so they may not be ideal for intense workouts or wet conditions. Their price might be higher than some competitors, reflecting the premium features and brand reputation.

If your priorities are noise cancellation, comfort, and long battery life in wireless over-ear headphones, the Bose QuietComfort offers a strong option, especially well-suited for music lovers and frequent travelers.

The Apple AirPods Max are premium over-ear wireless headphones designed to deliver high-quality sound with their Apple-designed dynamic drivers and advanced computational audio. They excel in sound clarity and offer personalized spatial audio that adapts to your ear shape, creating an immersive listening experience. The headphones feature pro-level active noise cancellation that effectively reduces background noise, while Transparency mode allows you to stay aware of your surroundings when needed. Battery life is solid, providing up to 20 hours of listening or talk time, which covers most day-to-day uses comfortably.

Comfort is a highlight thanks to memory foam ear cushions and a breathable knit-mesh headband, although the headphones are somewhat heavy compared to typical models, which might feel noticeable during extended wear. Controls are very user-friendly, with a Digital Crown allowing precise volume, playback, and call management, plus easy switching between Apple devices. The build is sturdy and premium, but the included Smart Case offers minimal protection and some users may find it awkward to carry.

Charging uses USB-C now, which is convenient for Apple device owners, but the lack of water resistance means they’re not ideal for heavy outdoor or sports use. The AirPods Max are suited for Apple users seeking top-tier audio quality, seamless integration, and effective noise cancellation in daily commuting, travel, or home listening. The high price and weight might be a consideration for those wanting a lighter or more budget-friendly option.

The Bose New QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Headphones (2nd Gen) are over-ear wireless headphones designed for powerful noise cancellation and immersive sound. Their standout feature is the spatialized audio, which makes music and movies feel like they’re coming from all around you, enhancing your listening experience beyond typical headphones. Bose’s noise cancellation is highly effective and offers different modes like Quiet Mode for blocking sounds and Aware Mode to stay aware of your surroundings, which is great for diverse environments.

Battery life is solid, lasting up to 30 hours on a full charge, though immersive audio slightly reduces this to around 23 hours. The headphones are quite comfortable, with soft cushions and a well-balanced metal headband that won’t feel too tight even during long use. Sound quality is enhanced by custom tuning technology that adapts to your ear shape, plus lossless audio support when connected via USB-C cable for wired listening. The built-in microphones do a good job of focusing on your voice and minimizing background noise during calls, making them suitable for phone use. Bluetooth 5.4 offers a reliable wireless connection up to 30 feet away, and the Bose app allows easy control and software updates.

These headphones are fairly lightweight and come with a protective case and useful accessories. They are on the premium price side, and the plastic material in parts might feel less sturdy compared to full metal designs. Immersive and cinema modes add fun features, though not everyone will need or use them. For those seeking top-tier noise cancellation, excellent sound with spatial effects, and comfort for all-day wear, these headphones are a strong choice.