If you’re looking for the best headphones in 2024, choosing the right one depends on your needs—whether it’s noise cancellation, sound quality, comfort, or budget. Here’s a detailed buying guide featuring top models from Sony, Bose, Sennheiser, Marshall, Audio-Technica, and Bowers & Wilkins.
Best Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
Sony WH-1000XM5 (
Best Noise Cancellation)
- Industry-leading active noise cancellation (ANC)
- Exceptional LDAC support for high-resolution audio
- 30+ hours of battery life
- Comfortable lightweight design
Best for: Commuters, audiophiles, frequent flyers
Bose QuietComfort Ultra (
Best Comfort & ANC)
- Bose Immersive Audio for a spacious soundstage
- Adaptive noise cancellation better than previous QC models
- Soft ear cups for all-day comfort
- Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint connection
Best for: Travelers, office workers, ANC lovers
Bowers & Wilkins Px8 (
Best Premium Sound Quality)
- 40mm Carbon Cone drivers for audiophile-grade sound
- Luxurious design with high-end materials
- 24-bit DSP for ultra-clear sound
- 30-hour battery life
Best for: High-end audiophiles, luxury buyers
Sennheiser Momentum 4 (
Best for Soundstage & Clarity)
- 42mm transducer system for rich, detailed sound
- Adaptive ANC for noise-free listening
- 60-hour battery life
- More neutral, warm sound profile
Best for: Music lovers, sound purists
Budget & Mid-Range Options
Sony WH-CH720N (
Best Mid-Range ANC)
- Sony’s affordable noise-canceling option
- V1 processor for balanced sound
- 35-hour battery life
- Lightweight and comfortable
Best for: Budget ANC seekers, students
Marshall Major IV (
Best for Rock & Bass Lovers)
- Classic Marshall design with textured vinyl finish
- 80+ hours battery life
- Warm, bass-heavy sound for rock & hip-hop
- Foldable & compact
Best for: Bass lovers, rock music fans
Bose QuietComfort ( Best Value ANC)
- Solid noise cancellation at a lower price
- Crisp, clear audio
- 24-hour battery life
- Premium Bose build quality
Best for: Everyday users, frequent travelers
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e (
Premium & Stylish)
- Refined sound tuning for crisp vocals & bass
- Sleek, premium build
- 30-hour battery life
- Enhanced ANC vs. previous Px7
Best for: Stylish buyers, premium sound lovers
Audio-Technica ATH-M20x (
Best Budget Wired Option)
- Studio-grade sound at an entry-level price
- Flat, neutral audio tuning for accuracy
- Wired-only for zero latency
- Durable design for long-term use
Best for: Budget buyers, studio use
Final Buying Tips
For ANC & Travel → Sony WH-1000XM5 / Bose QC Ultra For Audiophiles → B&W Px8 / Sennheiser Momentum 4 For Budget Buyers → Sony WH-CH720N / Audio-Technica M20x For Comfort & Style → Bose QC Ultra / B&W Px7 S2e For Bass Lovers → Marshall Major IV / Sony WH-1000XM5
