10 Best Low Latency Headphones 2025 in the United States

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphones are renowned for their superior sound quality, with many audio professionals and engineers commending their performance. They feature large 45mm drivers that offer clear audio across a wide frequency range, coupled with deep bass, making these headphones ideal for those who prioritize sound quality above all else. The circumaural design provides excellent sound isolation, which is advantageous in noisy environments, although it's more about sound isolation than active noise cancellation.

These headphones are wired, meaning there's no latency involved, which is perfect for anyone looking to use them in situations where low latency is crucial, such as professional studio work or gaming. However, being wired means you won't have the freedom of wireless connectivity, which could be a drawback for users seeking more mobility.

Comfort and fit are highlighted through professional-grade earpads and headbands designed for durability and comfort, critical for extended use. The earcups can swivel 90 degrees, which is practical for single-ear monitoring and also adds flexibility in usage. The ATH-M50x does not come with a built-in battery, as it relies on a wired connection, so battery life is not applicable here. This eliminates the need for charging, but it ties you down to a cable. If battery-free operation and outstanding sound quality are your primary objectives, these headphones are a great choice. However, if wireless connectivity or active noise cancellation is what you're after, you might want to explore other options. The ATH-M50x shines most in settings where sound fidelity and low latency are paramount, making them a solid pick for professionals and audiophiles alike.

The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are a solid choice for anyone looking for premium noise-canceling over-ear headphones. Their noise cancellation is excellent, using advanced technology with multiple microphones and processors to effectively block out background noise, making them perfect for travel or busy environments. The sound quality is rich and clear, supporting a wide frequency range that music lovers will appreciate.

They offer a long battery life of up to 30 hours on a single charge, plus a quick charge feature that gives 3 hours of playback from just 3 minutes of charging—great if you’re often on the go. Connectivity is reliable with Bluetooth 5.2 and a good 100-meter range, but the audio latency is about 150 milliseconds, which is higher than ideal for serious gaming or extremely fast audio-visual syncing, so these might not be the best pick if very low latency is your priority.

Comfort-wise, the lightweight design and soft leather ear cups allow for long listening sessions without discomfort. Touch controls and voice assistant support add convenience, letting you manage music and calls easily. On the downside, these headphones are not water-resistant and may not be ideal for workouts or outdoor use in wet conditions. The WH-1000XM5 excels in noise cancellation, sound quality, battery life, and comfort, making them a great option for casual listeners, frequent travelers, and professionals needing clear calls, but they fall a bit short on low-latency performance needed for gaming or video editing.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Headphones are a strong choice for anyone seeking premium wireless headphones with excellent noise cancellation and rich sound quality. Their custom-tuned spatial audio creates an immersive listening experience, making music feel vivid and lifelike. With advanced noise cancellation modes—Quiet, Aware, and Immersion—they effectively block out distractions while allowing you to stay aware when needed. Comfort is a highlight, thanks to soft ear cushions and a well-designed headband that evenly spreads pressure, suitable for long listening sessions.

Connectivity is solid with Bluetooth 5.3, providing a reliable wireless range up to 30 feet. The SimpleSync feature is a nice addition for those who want to pair the headphones with a Bose soundbar, enhancing TV listening at your own volume. Battery life is impressive, offering up to 24 hours of playtime, or 18 hours when using immersive audio features, and fast charging lets you get a couple of hours of playback from just 15 minutes of charging.

Users specifically needing low-latency performance—such as gamers or those watching videos where audio sync is critical—should note that Bose doesn’t emphasize latency specs here. While Bluetooth 5.3 generally improves latency, wireless headphones usually have some delay compared to wired options. These headphones excel in comfort, sound quality, battery life, and noise cancellation, making them excellent for music lovers, frequent travelers, or anyone wanting high-quality wireless audio with clear calls. However, if ultra-low latency is crucial, especially for fast-paced gaming, you might want to compare with specialized low-latency models.