In 2025, a good pair of headphones has become essential—whether you’re working from home, commuting, or just trying to tune out the world. But with hundreds of options available across every price point, finding the perfect pair can feel overwhelming. We tested dozens of models, and these are our top picks for 2025, spanning a range from budget-friendly to premium audiophile experiences.
Why This Matters: Noise Cancellation Beyond Convenience
Noise-cancelling (ANC) technology has moved beyond just blocking out airplane hum. These days, it can significantly improve focus at work or make crowded commutes more bearable. The best headphones deliver powerful ANC while maintaining a natural sound profile—balancing noise reduction with clear audio quality is key.
Black Friday’s Prime Time for Headphones
Black Friday in late 2025 will offer some of the year’s most significant discounts on headphones. This means you can snag premium features at more accessible prices. Keep an eye out for deals starting weeks before the official day, as many retailers start rolling them out earlier and earlier each year.
Our Testing Process:
Every headphone in our guide was rigorously tested by Mashable reporters and editors. Here’s what we prioritized:
- Sound Quality: We evaluated how headphones handled a variety of genres—from crystal-clear vocals to thumping basslines.
- Noise Cancellation Effectiveness: We assessed how well each pair blocked out everyday noises in typical environments (offices, cafes, commutes) and compared performance across different ANC levels.
- Comfort and Design: We focused on wearability for extended periods, earcup/earbud size options, and intuitive controls.
- Value: Did the headphone’s features and performance justify their price tag?
The Best Headphones of 2025: Our Top Picks
1. Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd Gen) – The King of Comfort and Noise Cancellation
- Best for: Those seeking unbeatable noise-canceling performance and supreme comfort
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Why We Picked Them: While a hefty investment, the QC Ultras are in a league of their own for ANC power. They feel luxuriously comfortable for long wears, making them ideal for flights or noisy environments. The sound quality is also excellent, although some might find it slightly less exciting than other top contenders.
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Key Features:
- Class-leading active noise cancellation
- Incredibly comfortable fit (ear tips and stabilizer band)
- Wireless charging
2. Sony WH-1000XM6 – Audiophile’s Choice
- Best for: Music lovers who prioritize rich audio detail and accurate sound reproduction
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Why We Picked Them: The XM6s boast phenomenal noise cancellation that rivals the Bose, but their real strength is in their audio quality. They deliver a balanced, nuanced sound signature that excels with vocal-heavy tracks and complex instrumental arrangements.
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Key Features:
- Refined ANC over previous models
- Improved high-resolution audio support (LDAC)
- Foldable design for easy travel
3. JLab JBuds Lux ANC – Budget Champion
- Best for: Value seekers who need decent noise cancellation and solid sound on a budget
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Why We Picked Them: At just $50 (and frequently found on sale), the JLab JBuds Lux ANC offer surprising performance. While they might not match premium models in every aspect, they deliver effective noise cancellation, respectable sound quality, and excellent battery life—all for a fraction of the cost.
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Key Features:
- Affordable price point (often under $50)
- Effective noise cancellation
- Up to 40 hours of playback with ANC
4. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) – Premium Comfort and Noise Cancellation in a Portable Package
- Best for: Travelers and anyone who values earbuds that fit securely and block out distractions
- Why We Picked Them: These earbuds boast the same exceptional noise cancellation as their over-ear counterparts, combined with an incredibly comfortable design. They use ear tips, combined with a stabilizer band that ensures a secure and snug fit, even during intense workouts or jarring travel.
The Rest of the List: (We’ve included links to our full reviews for each pick)
- Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen): (Read review: [Link to Review]) – Seamless integration with Apple devices; good ANC, but sound quality is slightly bass-heavy
- Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless: (Read review: [Link to Review]) – Premium build and balanced audio signature, but battery life falls short compared to some competitors.
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Beats Fit Pro: (Read review: [Link to Review]) – Secure fit for workouts; punchy bass; good ANC, but sound can be overpowering at times.
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Technics AZ100: (Read review: [Link to Review]) – Impressive audio fidelity with a focus on detail and clarity; decent ANC, but not class-leading
- JBL Tour One M2: (Read review: [Link to Review]) – Customizable EQ presets for personalized sound; comfortable fit, but noise cancellation isn’t as effective in demanding situations.
- Skullcandy Crusher Evo: (Read review: [Link to Review]) – If you love thumping bass, these headphones deliver with their adjustable haptic bass feature
This comprehensive list covers a range of options, so whether you’re looking for budget-friendly comfort or premium audiophile performance, there’s a perfect pair waiting for you in our curated collection.
