Sennheiser leads the way in Bluetooth headphones, with Apple, Bose, Sony, Sonos and Dyson not far behind

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A USB-C dongle that plugs into your smartphone, laptop, or tablet and delivers high-resolution aptX Adaptive audio. This means audio quality that is richer, louder and overall fuller than typical Bluetooth. Sennheiser says only 16 percent of smartphones support native wireless high-resolution audio, and this dongle brings that feature to other smartphones. High-end audio normally requires much more hardware than this.

Sennheiser’s Smart Control Plus app provides audiophile-level frequency tuning with not only preset bands but also adjustable center frequencies, bandwidths and filter types. These are not just gimmicks, they are truly useful tools and with a little tinkering they make listening to music a pleasure.

These headphones may not look special, but they sound truly special and represent the pinnacle of the genre. They don’t come cheap at $999, but when you consider the 60-hour battery life, comfort, premium materials, and superior noise cancellation, these headphones are actually great value. Whether you are a true music lover or a casual listener, these are truly among the most popular songs.

Apple AirPods Max

Five years after its launch, Apple’s AirPods Max remain outstanding and extraordinarily expensive at $999. The September 2024 USB-C refresh and March 2025 lossless audio update (24-bit/48kHz via cable) modernize connectivity, but the aging H1 chip and lack of new features like Adaptive Audio make the device feel increasingly dated.

However, there’s no denying that these are absolutely top-notch: aluminum and stainless steel construction, custom 40mm drivers and meticulous industrial design that sets them apart from plastic rivals.

Sound quality is excellent, with a wide, immersive soundstage and carefully balanced tuning. Active noise cancellation is excellent and the transparency mode is even more impressive.

There are some major drawbacks. At 375 grams, these headphones are about 50 percent heavier than the competition, and the included case offers minimal protection. The 20-hour battery life is much shorter than rivals, and noise-cancelling headphones for Android users are prohibitively expensive; You lose spatial audio, automatic switching, and can’t adjust settings without an iOS device.

However, for rusty Apple users willing to pay a premium, the AirPods Max are still worth considering, even five years later.

Bose Quiet Comfort Ultra

QuietComfort Ultra delivers what Bose does best: industry-leading noise cancellation wrapped in ultra-comfortable hardware. Priced at $649 (usually $399-$450 on sale), it represents Bose’s most successful over-ear headphone yet.

Its active noise canceling performance stands out from the competition, providing approximately 87 percent noise reduction according to SoundGuys measurements. Sound quality is also impressive, with angled 35mm drivers delivering rich, full-bodied sound.

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The bass-forward signature provides more warmth and body than the Sony’s clearer presentation, but some listeners prefer the Sony’s transparency. Battery life is the main weak point here; 24 hours with active noise cancellation is good, but not as strong as competing options. Bose has built its reputation on quality materials and superior noise cancellation, and these headphones deliver on both counts.

Sony WH-1000XM5

Sony’s fifth-generation flagship delivers consistently excellent performance in every key metric, maintaining its gold-standard reputation from multiple iterations. Retailing for $549 (currently typically $370-$445 off), it represents the safe, proven choice for global travelers and commuters.

Redesigned 30mm carbon fiber drivers produce clearer, more detailed sound than the previous model, with improved bass sensitivity and a warm signature suitable for most genres. Active noise cancellation is basically as good as Bose; It provides approximately 86 percent noise reduction using eight microphones and dual processors. Office chat is over!

The all-plastic construction feels less premium than its price tag would suggest, and the hinges can feel a little flimsy and flimsy. But overall, these Sonys are arguably the most well-rounded value option for most buyers, especially at discounted prices. These are easy suggestions.

Sonos Ace

Sonos’ first Bluetooth headset came with a lot of drama when it launched last year. The revamped Sonos app introduced a number of bugs and issues that irritated customers and eventually led to the resignation of CEO Patrick Spence.

These issues have been resolved and the Ace now stands out as a strong alternative option, especially for home theater enthusiasts or those who already own Sonos speakers.

The cans offer an impressive 30 hours of battery life, as well as outstanding noise cancellation that rivals Apple and Bose.

Sound quality is strong, but the setting clearly prioritizes cinematic content over music.

Perhaps the most impressive feature is the unique TV Audio Switching feature, which seamlessly switches audio between Sonos soundbars (Arc, Beam, Ray) and headphones. For Sonos Soundbar owners and movie buffs, the Sonos Ace is perfect.

Dyson OnTrac

Dyson’s second attempt at headphones proves that the company has learned valuable lessons from the ill-fated Zone. Priced at $799 (recently reduced to $399), OnTrac ditches the gimmicks for the essentials: premium over-ear headphones with industry-leading 55-hour battery life, powerful active noise cancellation, and a uniquely customizable design. The aluminum and ceramic construction gives a premium feel, with round earcups housing custom 40mm drivers providing a 6Hz-21kHz frequency response.

For Dyson fans or those who prioritize battery life and distinctive design over absolute sound quality, the OnTrac is an attractive option, especially at its deeply discounted street price of under $400. At full retail price of $799, the likes of Sony and Bose offer better sound and value, but neither match OnTrac’s battery life nor customization options.

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