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Guys, it’s the 2020s, which means it’s time to cut the cord…from your headphones, that is. Your old, wired, over-ear cans may still work, but there is an entire new world of music listening you can immerse yourself in with a fresh pair of wireless headphones. When it comes to jamming, there is a drastic difference in sound quality and user experience from a good pair of headphones compared to a great one. But just because a brand offers a pricey option attached to a laundry list of features, that doesn’t mean they are a good fit for you.
The best wireless headphones for listening to music check off comfort, portability, battery life, durability, and of course listening quality. The market has exploded with options, making shopping for the best wireless headphones seem like quite a chore. Just like shopping for a car or a good pair of sneakers, you’ll want to consider characteristics in a product that you prioritize the most. Some wireless headphones are even better for certain genres (more on that later).
Wireless Earbuds or Over-Ear Wireless Headphones?
We love a good pair of easy-to-store earbuds, but if you’re a bass-hunting audiophile or a master gamer, you should seek a great pair of over-the-ear wireless headphones. You get better noise-canceling capabilities to drown out ambient sound, a fuller, more luxurious listening experience; and a safer way to bump loud beats. Plus, these wireless headphones safeguard your hearing, because you won’t need to turn the volume up as high due to the noise-canceling capabilities. There is also a greater distance between loud sound and your eardrums, without sticking anything in your ears.
While there’s nothing like the feel of a soft leather cushion creating a sexy pool of sound waves of your favorite music, there isn’t much to say about the convenience of lugging around a clunky pair of over-the-ear headphones—even if they fold up and come in a nice carrying case. That’s where wireless earbuds come in.
With the latest tech advances, these pocket-sized personal speakers can get the job done with flying colors, and usually at a lower price point. Sure, you might be trading in-studio listening for a more portable option, but with the latest tech advances, it becomes an experience only true audiophiles will notice (we’re talking soundstage, frequency, and harmonic distortion). If you’re an everyday, average listener that prioritizes efficiency over audio specs, go for a solid pair of wireless earbuds—and, trust us, you won’t recognize a difference.
Ahead, we bring you the top-rated wireless headphones of 2023. We cover both wireless earbuds and over-the-ear wireless options at every price point, so you can find a pair that best fits your lifestyle. From the best wireless headphones for working out in, for outdoor running, traveling, and more—there is something on this list for every type of listener. Whether you're an Android guy or an iPhone stan, get ready to invest in a new listening experience because the best wireless headphones are worth every penny. You just have to find the right fit for you.
Read more: Best Headphones for Running
Vanessa is an established editor, stylist and shopping expert covering all things style, gear and wellness. She lives in Los Angeles and is passionate about sharing innovative products, tips and trends for people and the planet.
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