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
Great Alternatives
These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs
SoundPEATS Cove Pro
Why we recommend this ▼
A 95-hour total battery life and 56dB adaptive ANC powered by a 7-mic hybrid system make these headphones a standout for endurance and noise isolation. The 250g foldable design with memory foam cushions and IPX4 water resistance prioritizes all-day comfort and portability for travel. These are best for frequent flyers and commuters who need marathon battery life and strong noise cancellation over critical call quality.
FIO MOTUS FM20-purple
Why we recommend this ▼
Exceptional 130-hour battery life in standard mode (75 hours with ANC) and a 10-minute quick charge providing 12 hours of playback set these apart, supported by 40mm Hi-Res drivers and hybrid ANC. Personalized spatial audio and ultra-soft protein leather earcups with automatic angle adjustment provide immersive sound and all-day comfort. Best for home office workers and movie buffs who value marathon battery life and plush comfort for long sessions over portability.
Audio-Technica ATH-S300BTBK
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.
FXWONTY FX-ANC043 Black
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.
EarFun Wave Pro HP200
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.
Edifier W80
Why we recommend this ▼
The 40mm titanium-coated dynamic driver with LDAC support delivers Hi-Res audio, while hybrid ANC reduces noise up to -49dB, all backed by a substantial 65-hour battery life. The foldable design uses memory foam pads and a silent hinge for all-day comfort without vibration, and a 15-minute fast charge yields 10 extra hours of use. These headphones suit commuters and remote workers who need marathon battery life and effective noise cancellation for focused, uninterrupted listening.
ILOCKZONE ILZ-OH-LC
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.
QCY H3
Why we recommend this ▼
A 60-hour battery and 43 dB adaptive ANC with bimodal ear-canal detection tailor noise cancellation via 40mm dynamic drivers and Bluetooth 5.4. A foldable 260g chassis, memory foam earpads, and multipoint connectivity add everyday flexibility and comfort. These are best for budget-conscious gamers and commuters who need all-day active noise cancellation without frequent charging.
UGREEN HiTune Max5c HP203
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.
JBL Tune JBLT770NCBLKAM
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.
Havit Space S1 H670BT
Why we recommend this ▼
The Soundguys Breakthrough Award-winning audio uses 40mm drivers and LHDC Hi-Res codec, backed by hybrid ANC with -45dB noise reduction and a 100-hour battery life in a lightweight 280g frame with durable metal hinges. A 360° spatial audio engine and multipoint dual-device connection pair with tactile metal lever controls for added convenience. Best for commuters and gamers who need prolonged wireless endurance, adaptive noise cancellation, and an immersive soundstage.
Sennheiser HD 599 508697
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.
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.
EarFun K2
Why we recommend this ▼
The 40-hour battery and Bluetooth 5.4 provide cable-free reliability, while the 40mm drivers produce crisp stereo audio within a WHO-recommended 85/94dB volume limit to safeguard young ears. At 176g with a foldable, wear-resistant build and soft memory foam padding, these CPC-certified headphones combine lightweight comfort with kid-proof durability. Ideal for parents who want a long-lasting, volume-limited audio solution for children’s schoolwork, travel, and tablet entertainment.
JLab JBuds Lux ANC HBJLUXANCRGPH62
Why we recommend this ▼
With a 70-hour battery life and Smart ANC blocking up to 25 dB of noise, the 40mm dynamic drivers deliver extended, uninterrupted listening. Cloud foam earcups, foldable hinges, and app-based EQ adjustments emphasize comfort and customization at an entry-level price. They suit budget-focused commuters and casual gamers needing spatial audio, multipoint Bluetooth, and all-day wear without frequent charging.
Best Headphones under £200 for music
Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus
Great Alternatives
These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs
Beyerdynamic Aventho 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.
Mackie MC Series 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.
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.
Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 S6CAW-R740
Why we recommend this ▼
Its adjustable sensory bass, controlled by a physical wheel, delivers a haptic, bone-rattling low-end that no other headphone in its class replicates. The 50-hour battery life and Skull-iQ platform provide long-term comfort and future-proof features like custom ANC levels and a personal hearing profile. These headphones are best for bass enthusiasts and casual listeners who prioritize a fun, physically impactful sound signature over studio accuracy.
Baseus Bowie MH1
Why we recommend this ▼
An 80-hour battery life (55 hours with ANC) and -48 dB adaptive hybrid noise cancellation combine with LDAC Hi-Res audio from 36mm dynamic drivers to set these apart. SoundFit hearing personalization and a 5-mic AI voice system add tailored listening and sharp call clarity. These are best for frequent travelers and remote workers who need all-day endurance, strong noise blockage, and dependable voice pickup for long meetings or commutes.
Turtle Beach Atlas Air TBS-5101-05
Why we recommend this ▼
An open-back design paired with a world-first floating earcup and 40mm drivers delivering 24-bit/96kHz Hi-Res audio, plus a 50-hour battery life, sets this headset apart for immersive PC gaming. Its 301g weight and glasses-friendly memory foam cushions make it comfortable for long sessions, while low-latency wireless with Bluetooth 5.2 multipoint offers flexible connectivity. Best suited for competitive and single-player PC gamers who prioritize natural soundstage and all-day wear over noise isolation.
Turtle Beach TBS-2101-25
Why we recommend this ▼
Dual 60mm Eclipse drivers with separate woofers and tweeters deliver precise audio separation and deep bass, while the 80-hour battery life outlasts nearly every competitor in its class. The dual wireless system lets you simultaneously connect to a console via 2.4GHz and a phone via Bluetooth 5.2, with independent volume controls to mix game and call audio seamlessly. This headset is best for multiplatform gamers who frequently switch between console and PC and need all-day battery life without recharging.
bmani H1
Why we recommend this ▼
With an ultra-fast ANC chip reducing noise by up to 45dB in 2ms and a 120-hour battery life, these headphones deliver uninterrupted listening for days on a single charge. 360° spatial audio with real-time head tracking adds theater-like immersion, complemented by a 6-mic AI array that suppresses ambient sound during calls. They’re best for frequent travelers and budget gamers who prioritize endurance and spatial sound over call clarity.
AKG K371
Why we recommend this ▼
With 50mm drivers and a 5Hz–40kHz frequency response in a lightweight 255g closed-back design, these headphones deliver a flat, accurate sound for critical monitoring. The folding metal-hinge construction and plush slow-retention foam earpads provide road-ready portability and lasting comfort during extended sessions. They are best for audio engineers and musicians needing honest, neutral reproduction for mixing and mastering, where call quality is not a priority.
JLab JBuds Lux ANC HBJLUXANCRMVE62
Why we recommend this ▼
With a 70-hour battery life and a quick charge that yields 4 hours of playback from just 10 minutes, these headphones prioritize endurance over premium codecs. The Smart ANC adapts to your environment and pairs with plush Cloud Foam cushions for all-day comfort, all customizable via a dedicated app. This is best for budget-conscious commuters and students who need reliable, long-lasting wireless audio and effective noise reduction for daily use.
Austrian Audio Hi-X HI-X15
Why we recommend this ▼
The 44mm high-excursion drivers deliver a neutral, detailed sound signature that stands out for critical listening at this price point. Its durable, lightweight build and plush ear cushions provide lasting comfort for extended sessions, while the closed-back design offers effective passive noise isolation. These headphones are best for budget-conscious home studio users and music enthusiasts who prioritize accurate audio reproduction over feature-laden wireless options.
Audio-Technica R-Series ATH-R30x
Why we recommend this ▼
The 40mm drivers and open-back design deliver a wide, detailed soundstage with minimal distortion, making the ATH-R30X a strong entry-level reference headphone. Its 210-gram weight and velour earpads provide lasting comfort for extended mixing sessions, while the simple, tuning-light transducer design offers natural clarity. This headphone is best for emerging audio engineers and home studio users who need accurate monitoring without a high price tag.
JLab Studio Pro
Why we recommend this ▼
A 50-hour battery life and feather-light 141-gram build, coupled with 40mm drivers and ultra-plush Cloud Foam cushions, deliver impressive stamina and comfort. EQ3 sound modes offer cable-free audio customization, and the foldable design with rapid 10-minute charge support hassle-free travel. These headphones are best for budget-minded commuters and casual listeners prioritizing battery life and fit over call clarity, given the weak microphone performance.
Audio-Technica ATH-GDL3 ATH-GDL3WH
Why we recommend this ▼
The 45mm drivers and open-back design deliver a 10Hz–35kHz response with an expansive sound field for precise spatial localization, all in a lightweight 220-gram frame. Detachable 3.0m and 1.2m cables ensure broad PC and console compatibility, while replaceable earpads and a flexible, directional boom mic add practical longevity and clear voice capture. Ideal for competitive gamers who prioritize pinpoint positional cues and all-day comfort, though its neutral tuning also suits casual studio monitoring.
Best Headphones under £400 for music
Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 700383
Great Alternatives
These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 Px7S3
Why we recommend this ▼
40mm bio-cellulose drivers paired with 24-bit DSP and aptX Lossless support deliver precise hi-res audio, backed by 30-hour battery life and 8-mic active noise cancellation. Plush memory foam ear cushions, a refined lightweight headband, and a 300g weight provide all-day comfort, while a 15-minute quick charge yields 7 hours of playback. Best for music enthusiasts and gamers who want low-latency wireless detail and rich sound, though commute noise isolation scores a modest 67.5.
Audio-Technica ATH-R70XA
Why we recommend this ▼
The custom 45mm drivers deliver a pure, uncolored sound directly from the transducer with a 5-40,000 Hz frequency response, avoiding acoustic resonance for minimized distortion. At just 199 grams, the redesigned headband and breathable open-back earcups provide a featherlight fit that virtually disappears during long sessions. This headphone is best for mixing and mastering engineers who require an accurate, spacious soundstage for critical, detail-oriented work.
Nothing Headphone (1) B170
Why we recommend this ▼
The K 80-hour battery life andEF-tuned 40mm dynamic drivers with LDAC support set these apart, delivering Hi-Res audio endurance that outlasts most competitors. The adaptive ANC with up to 42dB depth and a customizable 8-band EQ via the Nothing X app provide precise control over a spacious soundstage. These headphones are best for commuters and remote workers who need marathon battery life and effective noise cancellation for all-day calls and music.
Sennheiser Momentum Adapt Around-Ear
Why we recommend this ▼
The 42mm HD-600-inspired dynamic driver delivers a refined, audiophile-grade sound signature, while the 57-hour battery life with ANC active sets a new endurance benchmark. Hybrid adaptive noise cancellation and Bluetooth 6.0 with Auracast provide future-proofed connectivity and effective isolation in variable environments. These headphones are best for discerning music listeners and frequent travelers who prioritize marathon battery life and detailed, spacious audio over a budget price.
Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e
Why we recommend this ▼
Custom-angled 40mm drive units and a 24-bit DSP with Qualcomm aptX Adaptive deliver a precise, high-resolution soundstage that prioritizes the artist's intent. Luxurious memory foam earpads and detailed metal accents provide enduring physical comfort for all-day listening, backed by a substantial 30-hour battery life. These headphones are best for discerning music enthusiasts who value accurate, detailed audio reproduction over studio-level flatness for casual, daily listening.
Sennheiser ACCENTUM Wireless 800145
Why we recommend this ▼
Its 50-hour battery life with ANC active and in-house engineered transducer system deliver consistent, long-lasting Sennheiser sound without daily recharging. The hybrid ANC, transparency mode, and lightweight ergonomic design with plush earpads provide comfortable, all-day wear and situational awareness. This is ideal for commuters and frequent travelers needing reliable wireless noise control and multi-day battery endurance, not critical studio monitoring.
Audio-Technica ATH-SR5BT ATH-SR5BTWH
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.
Skullcandy Aviator 900 ANC
Why we recommend this ▼
The 60-hour battery life and THX Spatial Audio with head tracking deliver immersive soundscapes, while adaptive 6-mic ANC silences distractions. Its aviator-inspired design with premium materials and foldable build, plus multipoint pairing and rapid charging, offer style and convenience at a budget-friendly price. Ideal for price-conscious listeners who want all-day endurance and spatial audio for music and movies, though call quality is weaker.
Jabra Evolve3 75 37599-989-899
Why we recommend this ▼
Its 110-hour battery and 22-hour talk time pair with adaptive ANC and a six-mic ClearVoice system that uses deep learning to isolate speech in noisy offices. The headset folds flat at just 180g, adds a 360-degree busy light, and connects to two devices simultaneously via Bluetooth 5.3. It’s ideal for hybrid workers and call center agents who need all-day call reliability without frequent charging.
Bose QuietComfort 884367-1100
Why we recommend this ▼
With 24-hour battery life and a 15-minute boost delivering 2.5 hours of playback, these closed-back over-ears pair custom ANC and Transparency modes with a lightweight 238g design. Plush protein-leather ear cushions and steel-reinforced headband ensure comfort during long sessions, while the Bose app offers adjustable EQ and SimpleSync for pairing with Bose soundbars. Best for commuters and travelers who prioritize extended battery life, adaptive noise control, and portability in a wired or wireless package.
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.
Sony MDR-MV1 MDRMV1
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.
Zound Industries 1006861
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.
Audio-Technica ATH-M70x
Why we recommend this ▼
Tuned as the M-Series flagship for flat, accurate reproduction, these 280g headphones use 45mm drivers and a closed-back design to deliver precise audio with exceptional noise isolation. The robust build incorporates key metal components and includes both coiled and straight detachable cables for versatile studio connectivity. These are best for audio engineers and mixers who prioritize an uncolored frequency response for critical listening over casual enjoyment.
Beyerdynamic MMX 230 1001973
Why we recommend this ▼
Its 60-hour replaceable battery life, active noise cancellation, and Bluetooth 6.0 with a low-latency USB-C dongle provide uninterrupted wireless audio, while 40mm dynamic drivers deliver precise, detailed sound for tracking in-game cues. The over-ear design stays comfortable through marathon sessions with plush earcups and a secure clamp, and the ENC microphone with flip-to-mute ensures clear team communication even in noisy environments. Competitive gamers needing lag-free audio and reliable voice clarity will find this headset well-suited, though its studio performance is limited.
Best Headphones under £800 for music
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX 1224002
Great Alternatives
These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs
ausounds AUXTANC101
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.
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 SRH1540-BK-EFS
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.
HiFiMan Arya Organic
Why we recommend this ▼
The nanometer-thickness diaphragm and acoustically invisible Stealth Magnets deliver a remarkably pure, full-range 8Hz-65kHz response with minimal distortion. The open-back design with asymmetrical earcups and a 440g CNC-milled metal frame provides long-term comfort and a premium, durable build. These wired planar magnetic headphones are best for detail-oriented home listeners and studio monitors who prioritize accurate, uncolored sound reproduction over portability or isolation.
Beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO MKII 1000303
Why we recommend this ▼
The newly developed TESLA.45 drivers deliver a 5Hz-40kHz frequency response for precise, spatial sound critical for analytical work. Handmade in Germany with replaceable components, these 376g open-back headphones combine long-term durability with enhanced comfort for extended sessions. These are best for mixing and mastering engineers who need a reference-grade, wired headphone to scrutinize every detail of a track.
AYVVPII Silent UHF9
Why we recommend this ▼
The 40mm drivers deliver balanced sound for a silent disco, while the beat-synced LED lights and channel-indicator display create an engaging visual experience. The system scales effortlessly with unlimited headphone expansion and support for up to three transmitters, all managed from a single 500-meter range base station. This 10-headphone bundle is best for event organizers hosting multi-channel silent discos who need a durable, rechargeable fleet with instant setup.