Best Pick

Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2nd Gen

77.6 Work Score
over-ear Wireless ANC 30h
Why we recommend this

Combining Bose's best noise cancellation with breakthrough spatialized audio that places sound in front of you, these headphones deliver 30-hour battery life and CustomTune tech that adapts to your ear shape. Lossless USB-C wired listening and a new Cinema Mode for video add versatility, while plush cushions and a metal headband ensure all-day comfort. Best for travelers and remote workers needing reliable ANC and immersive audio for calls and movies, though music playback scores a weak 48.4/100.

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Great Alternatives

These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs

Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX

76.5 Work Score
over-ear Wireless ANC 40mm 40h
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.

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Cisco 730

64.3 Work Score
on-ear Wireless ANC 40mm 22h
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.

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Poly Voyager Focus 2 Focus 2 MS

48.7 Work Score
over-ear Wireless ANC 25h
Why we recommend this

Acoustic Fence microphone technology and hybrid ANC deliver 25 hours of talk time while blocking office noise for crystal-clear calls. A bundled desk stand with a USB dongle and Bluetooth 5.1 multipoint enables seamless switching and a 164-foot wireless range across PC, phone, and mobile. This headset is best for call center agents and office workers juggling multiple voice connections in loud environments.

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Audio-Technica ATH-WP900

37.1 Work Score
on-ear Wired 53mm
Why we recommend this

The 53mm diamond-like carbon drivers and flamed maple housings deliver a 5Hz-50kHz frequency response for detailed Hi-Res audio in a closed-back, 243-gram on-ear design. Its foldable frame, detachable A2DC cables, and handcrafted maple earcups that age gracefully ensure portable, comfortable long-listening sessions. This headphone best suits home-bound audiophiles focused on detailed music playback and isolation, not calls.

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Ausounds AU-XT ANC

36.7 Work Score
over-ear Wireless ANC 40mm 30h
Why we recommend this

The 40mm graphene drivers support Hi-Res Audio via aptX HD, delivering 30 hours of battery life with active noise cancellation. IPX4 water resistance and a quick charge that yields 1.5 hours of playback in 15 minutes pair with protein leather ear cups and a headband refined through a 45-step quality control process for extended comfort. It’s best for home or office listeners who prioritize detailed sound and effective ANC over call quality or on-the-go performance.

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Shure SRH1540

26.1 Work Score
over-ear Wired 40mm
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.

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Neumann NDH 20

26 Work Score
over-ear Wired 38mm
Why we recommend this

The 38mm dynamic drivers deliver a linear frequency response from 5Hz to 30kHz, avoiding the mid-band resonances common in closed-back designs for reliable mix decisions. Its robust spring steel and aluminum build, combined with memory foam ear pads and a foldable design, ensures long-term durability and comfort during extended sessions. These headphones are best for audio engineers and producers who require precise, isolated monitoring in noisy studio or mobile environments.

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BOSS Waza-Air

23.7 Work Score
over-ear Wireless 50mm 5h
Why we recommend this

The built-in gyro sensor and spatial technology create a realistic amp-in-a-room feel that moves with your head, setting it apart from standard guitar headphones. Its 50mm custom drivers and Tone Studio app provide five amp models and over 50 effects, all streamed wirelessly with ultra-low latency. This system is best for home guitarists who need silent, immersive practice without disturbing others.

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Bowers & Wilkins PX8 McLaren Edition Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling

22.7 Work Score
Wireless ANC
Why we recommend this

The precisely angled Carbon Cone drive units minimize distortion and deliver wide stereo separation, supported by six-mic noise cancellation that preserves musical detail. 30-hour battery life with quick charging, plus lightweight aluminum and Nappa leather memory foam earpads, ensure lasting comfort. Best for style-conscious commuters and travelers seeking refined audio, not for studio monitoring or budget-critical listeners.

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Meze Strada

18.9 Work Score
over-ear Wired
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Beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO MKII

16.8 Work Score
over-ear Wired
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Slate Media Technology VSX Modeling VSX Platinum Edition

16 Work Score
over-ear ANC
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RED Planar

15.4 Work Score
over-ear 70mm
Why we recommend this

The 70mm planar magnetic drivers deliver a reference-grade 30Hz-30kHz frequency response with minimal harmonic distortion, making precise mix decisions possible. The open-back design creates a wide, natural soundstage while the lightweight 480g build and plush ear pads remain comfortable for extended sessions. These are best for mix engineers and mastering professionals who need accurate, uncolored monitoring in a treated studio environment.

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Avantone Pro Planar

13.2 Work Score
over-ear
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HiFiMan Arya Arya Stealth Magnet Version

12.8 Work Score
over-ear Wired
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.

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