10 Best Headphones 2026 in the United States

The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are a strong choice for anyone looking for high-quality wireless headphones with top-notch noise cancellation. They use advanced processors and 12 microphones to block out background sounds very effectively, making them great for travel, work, or noisy places. Sound quality is excellent, with clear and balanced audio designed with input from professional audio engineers, so music and voices sound natural and detailed.

Comfort is carefully considered with a wide, soft headband and adjustable ear cups, allowing for all-day wear without discomfort, even if you wear glasses or a hat. These headphones are wireless but also offer a wired option, which is handy if the battery runs low or for better sound quality. Speaking of battery, they last up to 30 hours on a single charge, and a quick 3-minute charge gives you up to 3 hours of playback, which is convenient for busy users.

Additional features like adaptive noise cancellation that adjusts to your surroundings, clear call quality even in busy environments, and a foldable design with a compact carrying case make them practical and versatile. Although they are lightweight and comfortable, some users might find the price on the higher side. Also, despite excellent Bluetooth connectivity, wireless audio compression can still slightly reduce sound quality compared to wired use. The WH-1000XM6 fulfills the essentials for premium wireless headphones and suits anyone prioritizing noise cancellation, sound clarity, and comfort.

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.