Find the best headphones for music in 2026
What music lovers need:
- Balanced Sound - Accurate frequency response that reveals every detail
- Wide Soundstage - Spatial presentation that brings recordings to life
- High-Resolution Support - LDAC, aptX HD, or wired hi-res for lossless audio
- Comfort - Plush padding for long listening sessions
Best Headphones under £80 for music
Audio-Technica ATH-S300BT
Great Alternatives
These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs
JLab JBuds Lux ANC
Why we recommend this ▼
With a 70-hour battery life (40 with ANC) and hybrid noise cancellation up to 35dB, the 40mm drivers deliver spatial audio compatible with Dolby Atmos and Tempest 3D. The foldable design, plush Cloud Foam cushions, and JLab App’s EQ and multipoint Bluetooth control make it a practical daily companion. It’s ideal for budget-conscious commuters and mobile gamers who prioritize all-day comfort and immersive sound over studio accuracy.
QCY H3S
Why we recommend this ▼
Its 56dB hybrid ANC and 102-hour battery life set a new benchmark for noise isolation under $100, with a dual-driver system (40mm + 13mm) delivering Hi-Res LDAC clarity. The seven-mic array with active noise cancellation ensures clear calls, while Bluetooth 6.0 and a low-latency gaming mode cater to mobile gamers and remote workers. Best for budget-conscious commuters or gamers who need marathon battery life and effective noise cancellation without sacrificing call quality.
EarFun Tune Pro
Why we recommend this ▼
The dual 40mm+10mm dynamic drivers deliver Hi-Res audio over USB-C, and a 120-hour battery life (80 hours with ANC) sets a new endurance benchmark. Hybrid ANC with QuietSmart 2.0 cuts up to 45 dB of noise, while the foldable, memory-foam-padded build ensures all-day comfort and Bluetooth 5.4 multipoint keeps two devices paired. These are best for frequent travelers and commuters needing multi-day battery life without recharging.
QCY H3
Why we recommend this ▼
With Bluetooth 5.4, 43dB adaptive ANC, and 60-hour battery life, the QCY H3 offers exceptional noise isolation and all-day playback for under $50. Its bimodal ear-canal detection and multipoint support deliver personalized sound and seamless switching between devices. Best for budget-conscious commuters or students who need reliable active noise cancellation and long battery life without spending more.
RED R916
Why we recommend this ▼
A 68-hour battery life, Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint pairing, and a lightweight 159g foldable frame make these headphones a clear standout for wireless endurance. Memory-protein ear cushions that simulate skin texture and three switchable EQ modes (Pop/Bass/Vocal) deliver exceptional long-term comfort and adaptable sound. They are best for budget-conscious music listeners and remote workers who need marathon playback and all-day comfort but can overlook the weak 43.5/100 call quality.
Rydohi R916
Why we recommend this ▼
The 68-hour battery life with a quick 10-minute charge for 5 hours of playback sets this ultralight 159g foldable over-ear headphone apart for marathon listening. Multipoint Bluetooth 5.3 enables seamless switching between two devices, while three EQ modes and memory-protein ear cushions add adaptable sound and enduring comfort at a budget-focused price point. Best for commuters and remote workers who need all-day battery and fatigue-free wear for music, though call quality is noticeably weak.
FXWONTY FX-ANC043
Why we recommend this ▼
With up to 42dB hybrid ANC, dual 40mm drivers for Hi-Res Audio, and a 70-hour battery that gains 10 hours from a 10-minute charge, this headset stands out for endurance. Lightweight at 236g and foldable, it features memory foam earcups and a zero-pressure headband for all-day comfort. It’s ideal for travelers and office workers needing long-haul noise isolation and seamless multipoint device switching.
ILOCKZONE LC30Pro
Why we recommend this ▼
With 100-hour battery life and hybrid ANC that cancels up to 95% of ambient noise, its 40mm drivers and Bluetooth 5.4 deliver dependable wireless audio. A foldable, memory foam-padded build and multipoint connection make it a practical travel companion that switches easily between two devices. It’s ideal for budget-minded commuters and travelers who need marathon battery life and effective noise canceling, though call quality is only adequate.
NOUUI ANC042
Why we recommend this ▼
70-hour battery life without ANC complements hybrid noise cancellation reducing up to 42dB and 40mm drivers supporting aptX HD. The foldable design with memory foam ear cups ensures all-day comfort, while Bluetooth 5.4 multipoint connectivity lets you switch between phone and laptop instantly. Commuters and frequent travelers who need days-long battery and consistent noise isolation in a portable package will find this well-suited.
Nothing Headphone Pro
Why we recommend this ▼
Packing LDAC support and dual Hi-Res certification into customized 40mm drivers, it delivers high-resolution wireless playback matched with a 50-hour battery life with ANC enabled. Beyond its aggressive budget positioning, on-device physical controls like the Energy Slider for on-the-fly bass and treble adjustment provide a rare tactile utility absent in companion-app reliant rivals. This headphone is best for budget-conscious listeners and gamers who demand extensive codec support and direct, phone-free sound customization.
EarFun Wave Pro
Why we recommend this ▼
With an 80-hour battery life, 45dB hybrid active noise cancellation, and LDAC high-resolution wireless audio, the 40mm dynamic drivers deliver detailed, high-bitrate sound. The lightweight 266g foldable design, plush memory foam earpads, and 10-minute quick charge for 10 hours of playback add all-day comfort and convenience. This headset is ideal for Android users and frequent travelers who need marathon battery life, effective ANC, and hi-res codec support in a portable package.
Soundcore Q20i
Why we recommend this ▼
Hybrid active noise cancellation cuts ambient sound by up to 90%, while 40mm dynamic drivers deliver Hi-Res audio and deep bass with 40 hours of ANC playtime. A budget-friendly renewed price, multipoint Bluetooth, and a foldable design add everyday convenience. Best for commuters and travelers seeking effective noise reduction and long battery life at a low cost.
UGREEN HiTune Max5c
Why we recommend this ▼
Featuring 40mm dynamic drivers and LDAC codec for Hi-Res wireless audio, its 43dB adaptive ANC is backed by a 75-hour battery life when noise cancellation is off. The 264g foldable design and app with eight EQ presets add convenience, while USB-C wired audio and dual-device connectivity expand its versatility. It’s best for budget-minded commuters and casual gamers who prioritize all-day battery life and effective noise reduction over call quality.
Uliptz Wireless
Why we recommend this ▼
With 65 hours of battery life and a 10-minute quick charge yielding 4 hours of playback, the Uliptz Wireless offers exceptional endurance, supported by Bluetooth 6.0 multipoint and six EQ modes for versatile tuning. Its lightweight 180g design with memory foam ear cups and foldable build makes it highly portable and comfortable for extended wear. Best for budget-conscious travelers and remote workers needing long battery life and basic voice call functionality.
Y8+
Why we recommend this ▼
100-hour battery life with a 10-minute charge for 5 hours, hybrid ANC that cancels up to 90% of low-frequency noise, and LDAC Hi-Res audio through 40mm drivers define its endurance-focused design. The onboard AI delivers voice chat and translation across 103 languages, while the 276g foldable build and memory foam cushions prioritize travel-ready comfort. It’s ideal for frequent flyers and students needing all-day noise isolation and on-the-go translation, though call quality lags behind at 50.7/100.
Best Headphones under £200 for music
Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4
Great Alternatives
These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs
Audio-Technica ATH-S300BT
Why we recommend this ▼
With a 90-hour battery life and a quick 3-minute charge restoring 2.5 hours of playback, its digital hybrid ANC and 40mm dynamic drivers deliver clear, full-spectrum sound without frequent recharging. The foldable, lightweight design and plush earpads prioritize portability and comfort for extended wear, while multipoint Bluetooth 5.1 smoothly switches between devices. Ideal for budget-minded commuters and office workers who need ANC and marathon playback, though call quality is its weakest link.
Beyerdynamic AVENTHO 100 1001609
Why we recommend this ▼
With up to 60 hours of battery life, Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Adaptive and LL, and 45mm dynamic drivers, it delivers high-resolution wireless audio in a lightweight 181-gram foldable frame. Its Red Dot Award-winning design pairs premium aluminum and textile materials with multipoint and Google Fast Pair for seamless daily use. Best for mobile gamers and frequent travelers who prioritize iconic on-ear style, ANC, and all-day endurance over call clarity.
Marshall Major Major V
Why we recommend this ▼
Delivering Marshall's signature sound through 40mm drivers, the Major V offers 100-hour battery life and a quick-charge that gives 15 hours of playback from just 15 minutes of charging. Its rugged foldable design, wireless charging, customizable M-button, and Bluetooth LE Audio support make it a practical travel companion. Best for budget-minded listeners and frequent travelers who prioritize marathon battery life over call quality.
Sennheiser Momentum M4AEBT
Why we recommend this ▼
Its 60-hour battery that gains 4 hours of playback from a 5-minute charge powers a 42mm dynamic transducer system with aptX Adaptive for hi-res audio and adaptive noise cancellation. The fold-flat 289g design, multipoint pairing, and four beamforming mics with wind suppression prioritize portability and clear calls. Best for commuters and mobile gamers requiring all-day noise cancellation with minimal charging downtime.
Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus ACCENTUM Plus Wireless White
Soundcore Space One
Why we recommend this ▼
A 40-hour battery life with ANC on and a 5-minute charge yielding four hours of listening pairs with adaptive noise cancellation that reduces noise by up to 98% and a 2X stronger voice reduction structure. Memory foam ear cups and a flexible headband provide all-day comfort, while LDAC Hi-Res audio and 40mm dynamic drivers deliver strong bass response. This headphone is best for commuters and budget-conscious travelers who need reliable adaptive noise cancellation and long battery life without sacrificing comfort.
Audio-Technica ATH-SR5BT
Why we recommend this ▼
The 45mm dynamic drivers and Hi-Res Audio certified 5Hz-40kHz response deliver studio-accurate sound, backed by a 38-hour battery life on a single charge. Its lightweight 185g on-ear design and closed-back isolation provide a comfortable, travel-friendly fit, with multipoint Bluetooth and NFC for seamless switching. They’re best for critical listeners and studio users who need long battery and noise isolation over call performance.
JBL Live 670NC
Why we recommend this ▼
Custom 40mm drivers deliver JBL’s signature Pure Bass and Spatial Sound, while a 76-hour battery life with 5-minute speed charging ensures it outlasts any playlist. Its lightweight 222g foldable design and Bluetooth 6.0 multipoint connection add everyday portability and seamless device switching. This is best for commuters and all-day listeners who prioritize marathon battery life and punchy, immersive audio on a budget.
Audio-Technica ATH-R50x
Why we recommend this ▼
Fully open-back 45mm drivers produce a wide, realistic soundstage with extended bass and accurate midrange, all in a 207g lightweight design for lasting comfort. Its durable construction includes two detachable cables with twist-lock connectors and a 6.3mm adapter, ideal for critical listening. Best suited for studio engineers mixing or mastering stereo and immersive formats.
JBL Tune 770NC
Why we recommend this ▼
A 70-hour battery life and quick 5-minute charge yielding 3 hours of playback define its endurance, combined with adaptive noise cancelling and JBL Pure Bass Sound over Bluetooth 5.3. The foldable, 232-gram build and multipoint connection add practical portability, while the app delivers customizable EQ for personal sound tuning. It’s best for budget-conscious students and commuters who prioritize marathon ANC performance and bass-heavy music over call quality.
Sennheiser ACCENTUM ACCENTUM Wireless
Why we recommend this ▼
Equipped with 37mm dynamic drivers and hybrid ANC, the 363g foldable design delivers Sennheiser's signature sound with a 50-hour battery life. A built-in 5-band EQ and sound modes like Bass Boost and Podcast let you tailor audio precisely, while fast charging provides 4 hours of playback from just 5 minutes. It's best for commuters and frequent travelers who need reliable, all-day noise cancellation and clear call quality.
Mackie MC-60BT
Why we recommend this ▼
The Mackie MC-60BT stands out with its MIS wide-band active noise cancellation, 24-bit aptX HD codec support, and 35-hour battery life. The included wireless charging pad and protective hard case add practical value, while IPX4 water resistance and a foldable 300g design ensure portable durability. This headphone is best for studio monitoring and music enthusiasts prioritizing ANC and high-fidelity 24-bit audio, but its weak call score of 56.5 makes it less suitable for frequent hands-free use.
Sennheiser HD 599
Why we recommend this ▼
Its open-back 38mm dynamic drivers and Ergonomic Acoustic Refining deliver a wide, natural soundstage with 106dB SPL, directing audio precisely to the ear. The lightweight 255g build, plush replaceable ear pads, and water-resistant design provide pressure-free comfort during extended listening. Best for home music enthusiasts and studio monitoring where open-back clarity and spaciousness are priorities, not for call quality reliant on the weak microphone.
Sennheiser HD 560S
Why we recommend this ▼
The open-back earcups and 38mm dynamic drivers with a 6Hz–38kHz frequency response deliver neutral, reference-grade sound with ultra-low distortion even at high volume. Angled transducers create a precise stereo image without room treatment, while the 240g chassis and velour earpads offer all-day wearing comfort. Best for budget-conscious audiophiles and home studio producers who require accurate analytical monitoring for mixing and critical listening.
Nothing Headphone (a) A11300028
Why we recommend this ▼
With up to 135 hours of total playback (75 hours with ANC on) and adaptive hybrid noise cancellation, these over-ears prioritize marathon listening and active noise control. A remote camera shutter function for vlogging and group shots pairs with customizable EQ via the Nothing X app, while memory foam cushions provide all-day comfort. Best for daily commuters and casual listeners who need extreme battery life and hands-free photo capture, though not suitable for critical studio work.
Best Headphones under £400 for music
Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 M4AEBT
Great Alternatives
These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 Px7S3
Why we recommend this ▼
Custom-tuned 40mm bio-cellulose drivers with 24-bit DSP and aptX Lossless codec support deliver reference-grade clarity, while eight-mic adaptive ANC sustains playback for up to 30 hours. Plush memory foam ear cushions and a lightweight fabric headband provide exceptional all-day comfort without fatigue. Studio professionals and audiophiles who need precise monitoring will value the 99.7/100 studio score accuracy for critical listening tasks.
Beyerdynamic AVENTHO 300 1000981
Why we recommend this ▼
STELLAR.45 dynamic drivers, 50-hour battery life, and aptX Lossless codec support deliver detailed sound with Dolby Atmos head tracking for immersive spatial audio. Memory foam ear pads and a padded headband provide all-day comfort, while multipoint Bluetooth seamlessly switches between devices for multitasking. These headphones are best for gamers and music listeners who prioritize immersive spatial audio and marathon comfort, though call quality is a weak point.
Audio-Technica ATH-R70XA
Why we recommend this ▼
The fully open-back design with 45mm drivers delivers direct transducer output, offering a distortion-free 5Hz–40kHz frequency range and pristine sound accuracy. At 199 grams with a durable build and detachable cable, it combines long-session comfort with easy portability. This model suits studio engineers who need transparent, wide-band monitoring for precise mixing and mastering decisions.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
Why we recommend this ▼
Featuring a redesigned 40mm angled drive unit with aptX Adaptive and 30-hour battery life (plus 7 hours from a 15-minute charge), the Px7 S2 delivers class-leading clarity. Its six-microphone array with two adjustable external mics ensures exceptional voice pickup for calls, while lightweight polymer arms and technical fabrics improve long-wear comfort. Best for audiophiles seeking wireless studio-quality sound for critical home listening or office use.
Marshall Monitor Monitor III A.N.C.
Why we recommend this ▼
A 70-hour battery life and 15-minute quick charge for 12 hours, combined with a 250-gram foldable build, deliver rugged portability and 117dB-sensitive 32mm drivers for detailed audio. Dynamic Loudness adapts EQ in real time to maintain consistent sound, while Soundstage Spatial Audio and transparency mode offer immersive or aware listening. These headphones suit budget-focused commuters needing marathon ANC performance, though call quality (48.2/100) makes them less ideal for hands-free conversations.
AKG K371-BT
Why we recommend this ▼
50mm drivers with a 5Hz–40kHz response and a 40-hour battery provide accurate monitoring in a foldable, closed-back design. At just 224 grams with plush earcups and a durable build, it offers all-day comfort and connects via Bluetooth or 3.5mm. Best for studio engineers and content creators seeking a wireless monitoring headphone that prioritizes clarity over call quality.
Skullcandy Aviator Aviator 900 ANC
Why we recommend this ▼
60-hour battery life and 6-mic adaptive noise canceling pair with THX Spatial Audio and head tracking for a comprehensive feature set at a budget-friendly price. A 10-minute quick charge delivers 4 hours of playback, and the foldable, water-resistant build adds customizable EQ and multipoint connectivity. These headphones suit budget-focused gamers and commuters who value long battery life and immersive spatial audio over critical music reproduction.
Jabra Evolve3 75
Why we recommend this ▼
A 110-hour music battery life, 22-hour talk time, and adaptive ANC with MEMS 32mm drivers define this wireless headset's endurance. ClearVoice technology leverages six microphones and deep learning for noise-free calls, complemented by a 360° busy light and a 180g foldable frame. It's ideal for remote workers and call-center professionals who need all-day reliability and clear communication.
Sennheiser HD 660S2
Why we recommend this ▼
Featuring 38mm dynamic transducers with a 300-ohm impedance and a frequency response from 8 Hz to 41.5 kHz, the open-back design delivers low-distortion sound with a distinct sub-bass emphasis. Its plush padding and steel-mesh damping yield high comfort and controlled airflow for fatigue-free listening, with detachable 1.8m cables and a 4.4mm balanced connection. Best for audiophiles and studio monitoring where precise imaging and extended bass are critical, but its 14/100 call score makes it unsuitable for phone calls.
Sony MDR-MV1
Why we recommend this ▼
The open-back design and custom 40mm HD drivers deliver an ultra-wide 5Hz–80kHz frequency response for precise spatial audio. At 476g, the lightweight chassis and plush ear pads ensure fatigue-free monitoring during extended studio sessions. These headphones suit audio engineers and producers needing reference-grade clarity for mixing and mastering immersive audio content.
Audio-Technica M Series ATH-M60x
Why we recommend this ▼
With 45mm large-aperture drivers delivering a 15Hz–28kHz frequency response and 102dB sensitivity, this closed-back on-ear monitor provides accurate audio with minimal bleed. Its lightweight 200g build and memory foam earpads ensure all-day comfort, while three detachable cables (1.2-3.0m coiled, 3.0m straight, 1.2m straight) support varied studio setups. It’s best for audio engineers and musicians needing isolated, precise monitoring in recording and mixing sessions, not for calls or casual listening.
Beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO X
Why we recommend this ▼
The 45mm STELLAR.45 driver offers a 5Hz–40kHz response and 100dB sensitivity, with a 48-ohm impedance that works reliably across diverse playback devices. The single-sided detachable cable, replaceable ear pads, and closed-back design ensure long-term durability and isolation during critical listening. This headphone is best for audio engineers and musicians requiring consistent, accurate monitoring during recording and mixing sessions.
Cisco 730
Why we recommend this ▼
With 40mm drivers and adaptive ANC, the Cisco 730 delivers clear call audio and up to 22 hours of playback, deeply integrating with Cisco’s ecosystem. Its lightweight 216g on-ear design and Bluetooth 5.0 with multipoint (two devices plus USB adapter) make it practical for shifting between desk and mobile work. Best for employees in Cisco-based offices who prioritize call clarity, noise cancellation, and seamless system integration over music or gaming performance.
HP Voyager Surround 8G7T9AA
Why we recommend this ▼
The boomless design packs 10 microphones and adaptive ANC for clear call transmission, backed by a 24-hour listen time battery. Its 275-gram carbon fiber frame and ultra-soft ear cushions deliver all-day comfort, while Poly Lens cloud management adds deployability for IT teams. Best for remote workers and frequent callers who need discreet, high-clarity voice pickup in noisy environments, not studio monitoring.
JBL Live 660NC
Why we recommend this ▼
40mm drivers pump JBL’s signature sound with up to 50 hours of battery life and Adaptive Noise Cancelling, all wrapped in a pillow-soft fabric headband for all-day wear. Multipoint Bluetooth and ambient-aware TalkThru mode let you manage calls seamlessly and stay aware of your surroundings without removing the headphones. Commuters who take frequent calls and need dependable ANC will get the most value, reflected in strong commute and call scores of 74.8 and 74.5.
Best Headphones under £800 for music
Bowers & Wilkins Px8
Great Alternatives
These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX
Why we recommend this ▼
Custom 40mm neodymium drivers with adaptive ANC deliver a precise, balanced soundstage, and the 40-hour battery sustains extended listening. Lambskin-wrapped memory foam earpads and a pressure-relieving headband keep the 285g weight comfortable for all-day wear. These suit gamers and music listeners who prioritize refined audio and luxury build over call clarity, which scores a weaker 62.9.
Jabra Evolve3 85
Why we recommend this ▼
Its 120-hour music battery life and ClearVoice microphone array with adaptive ANC and six mics ensure all-day call clarity in noisy offices. The foldable 220g design and dual-device connectivity, combined with a 360-degree busy light, make it a discreet productivity tool for UC workflows. Best for call center agents and hybrid workers who need 25 hours of talk time and consistent voice isolation during consecutive video meetings.
Shure SRH1540
Why we recommend this ▼
A wide 5Hz–25kHz frequency range from 40mm neodymium drivers and a sturdy 286g aluminum alloy/carbon fiber construction define the SRH1540’s audio and build quality. The closed-back design with Alcantara ear pads offers effective noise isolation and all-day comfort, while detachable cables and a hard case add portability. These headphones are best for audio engineers and musicians who need accurate, isolated monitoring in the studio.
Jabra Evolve3 85 Noise-Canceling Wireless Over-Ear
Why we recommend this ▼
Its 120-hour music and 25-hour talk battery life set it apart, with adaptive ANC and six-mic ClearVoice isolation. The 220g foldable build and 360° busy light add portability and visual privacy for shared workspaces. It’s best for hybrid workers needing clear, uninterrupted calls throughout the workday and beyond.
Neumann NDH NDH 20
Why we recommend this ▼
Unlike typical closed-back headphones, its 38mm dynamic drivers deliver a resonance-free, linear 5Hz–30kHz response at 150 ohms, providing the balanced, detailed image needed for critical mix decisions. The internally balanced cable and plush memory foam ear pads, together with a foldable build, prioritize precise localization, all-day comfort, and easy transport. This makes them ideal for recording engineers and mix producers who need reliable isolation and accurate tonal representation to work confidently in loud environments.
HiFiMan Arya Arya Stealth Magnet Version
Why we recommend this ▼
The Stealth Magnet design and nanometer-thick planar diaphragm combine to deliver virtually distortion-free sound across an 8Hz–65kHz range with 94dB sensitivity. Its lightweight 404g construction pairs a metal headband with high-grade plastic and user-replaceable 3.5mm connectors for durable, customizable everyday use. This open-back headphone suits audiophiles and mixing engineers who demand accurate, low-distortion planar resolution for critical listening and studio work.
Beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO MKII
Why we recommend this ▼
The newly developed TESLA.45 drivers deliver a spacious, natural soundstage with a 5Hz-40kHz frequency response, making the open-back design ideal for critical listening. German-made construction uses anodized metal and replaceable parts, ensuring long-term durability and sustained comfort at 454 grams. These headphones are best for mixing and mastering engineers who require precise, uncolored audio to scrutinize their tracks.
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