It has been a long time since I've considered buying a pair of wired headphones.
Wireless headphones today offer exceptional sound quality, and battery life has reached a point that you can listen for hours without a recharge.
You can enjoy immersive surround sound, plus the flexibility to move around. That might mean listening to crystal clear audio while you exercise, or just giving the freedom to duck to the kitchen for a snack while you watch TV.
The biggest problem you face when shopping for Bluetooth headphones is the sheer number of options.
I've tested dozens of headphones since launching BTTR, from budget-friendly options to premium audiophile models. Most of them are good – it's actually pretty hard to go wrong with wireless headphones these days if you stick with reputable brands.
But if I had to spend my own money on a new pair of wireless headphones right now, there are only a few I'd seriously consider.
The Sony WH-1000 XM6 leads the pack with world-class noise cancellation and stunning audio quality. The Sonos Ace is perfect if you want spatial audio and seamless integration with your home cinema setup. And if you're on a budget, the Belkin Soundform Isolate punches way above its weight at under $100.
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The best wireless headphones I've tested
Overall: Sony WH-1000 XM6
If you're looking for the absolute best wireless headphones available right now, the Sony WH-1000 XM6 should be at the top of your list.
I've tested a lot of headphones with active noise cancellation, and these are simply the best. They create a remarkable bubble of silence around you that's perfect for flights, commutes, or just blocking out the world when you need to focus.
But noise cancellation means nothing if the audio quality doesn't deliver, and thankfully Sony nails it here. The sound is beautifully balanced across all frequencies. Bass has real depth and impact without overwhelming everything else, while vocals and instruments remain crisp and clear.
Whether you're listening at whisper-quiet volumes or cranking it up loud, the XM6 maintains that balance.
The lightweight design means you can wear these for hours without discomfort, though the plastic construction won't win any awards for premium feel. Sony's also included some clever features like automatic pause when you start speaking.
On the downside, Sony's 360 Reality Audio format for spatial sound isn't widely supported by streaming services, so if you like spatial audio, you probably need to look eslewhere. It feels like a missed opportunity when competitors are nailing spatial audio with more mainstream codec support.
At close to $700, these definitely aren't budget headphones. But if you want the best wireless noise cancelling experience money can buy, they're worth every cent.
Nick Broughall
🛒 Where to buy Sony
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