Best Headphones for Music and Phone Calls: Top Picks

1. Picun B8 Bluetooth Headphones

We put the Picun B8 through its paces, and the standout feature is undeniably its marathon battery life. For anyone who dreads constant charging, this is a significant win, easily lasting through multiple days of heavy use. The sound profile leans towards a slightly bass-heavy signature, which can be quite enjoyable for genres like hip-hop and electronic music. Pairing was straightforward, and the connection remained stable during our testing period.

However, the build quality, while functional, feels a bit on the lighter side. The plastic used for the earcups and headband doesn’t inspire the same confidence as more premium offerings, and I noticed a slight creaking when adjusting the fit. The microphone performance for calls was adequate in quiet environments, but it struggled to isolate our voice when background noise was present, making conversations a bit of a challenge. This is a solid option for long listening sessions, but perhaps not the top pick for frequent, critical callers.

This is a fantastic choice for students, travelers, or anyone who needs headphones that can go the distance without needing a charger every night. If you prioritize battery longevity above all else and enjoy a punchy bass, the Picun B8 delivers. However, audiophiles seeking nuanced sound reproduction or those who make frequent important calls in noisy settings might want to look elsewhere.

2. Soundcore by Anker Q20i

The Soundcore Q20i presents a compelling package, especially considering its active noise cancellation capabilities. We found the ANC to be quite effective at reducing low-frequency ambient sounds, like the hum of an airplane cabin or a distant office air conditioner. The sound quality is balanced, with clear mids and highs that make vocals and instruments stand out pleasantly. The headphones are also surprisingly comfortable for extended wear, with plush earcups that create a good seal.

During our testing, I noticed that while the ANC is good, it’s not quite at the level of flagship models, allowing some higher-pitched noises to still creep through. The physical buttons for controls are a bit small and can be fiddly to locate by feel, especially when you’re on the go. For phone calls, the microphone quality is decent, delivering understandable audio, but it can pick up a fair amount of ambient sound, which might be an issue in busy environments.

These headphones are ideal for commuters, students studying in noisy dorms, or anyone who wants to create a personal quiet zone without breaking the bank. If you value effective ANC and a comfortable fit for long listening sessions, the Q20i is a strong contender. However, those who demand absolute silence or require pristine call quality in chaotic surroundings might find them slightly lacking.

3. Uliptz Wireless Bluetooth Headphones

The Uliptz headphones offer a commendable balance of features, aiming to be the best headphones for music and phone calls. The 65-hour battery life is certainly impressive, providing ample listening time between charges, and the inclusion of six EQ sound modes allows for a degree of customization to suit different musical tastes. We found the sound quality to be generally pleasing, with a clear presentation that works well across various genres. The build feels robust enough for daily use, and the earcups provide a decent level of passive isolation.

However, I did find that switching between the EQ modes wasn’t as intuitive as I would have liked, requiring a few presses of a specific button that could be easily missed. While the microphone is functional for calls, it lacks clarity and can sound a bit muffled to the person on the other end, especially if there’s any background chatter. The Bluetooth connectivity, while generally stable, did experience a few brief dropouts during testing in areas with a lot of wireless interference.

These headphones are a solid choice for individuals who appreciate the flexibility of EQ settings and a long-lasting battery for their daily commutes or work. If you enjoy tweaking your audio experience and need headphones that won’t die halfway through the day, the Uliptz is worth considering. However, if crystal-clear call quality is a top priority, or you prefer simpler, one-button controls, you might want to explore other options.

4. Jbl Tune 720bt

We tested the JBL Tune 720BT and were immediately struck by its lightweight design, making it incredibly comfortable for extended listening sessions. The sound signature leans towards JBL’s characteristic energetic profile, with a strong emphasis on bass that adds a satisfying punch to music. Pairing with devices was quick and painless, and the connection held strong throughout our testing, which is crucial for uninterrupted enjoyment. The plush earcups contribute significantly to the overall comfort and passive noise isolation.

However, the plastic construction, while contributing to the lightness, does feel a bit budget-oriented, and I noticed some minor flexing when applying pressure. While the bass is prominent, it can sometimes overpower the mids and highs, leading to a less detailed soundscape for certain tracks. The microphone for phone calls is serviceable in quiet environments, but it struggles to filter out background noise, meaning your voice might not come through as clearly to the other person in a busy setting.

The JBL Tune 720BT is an excellent option for casual listeners who enjoy a bass-forward sound and prioritize comfort for long listening periods. If you’re a fan of energetic music and need headphones that won’t weigh you down, these are a strong contender. However, audiophiles seeking a more neutral sound profile or individuals who frequently make important calls in noisy environments might find them less ideal.

5. Jlab Jbuds Lux Anc

Our experience with the JLab JBuds Lux ANC revealed a competent set of headphones that offer active noise cancellation at a more accessible price point. The ANC is reasonably effective at dampening low-frequency ambient sounds, making commutes or office work more peaceful. The audio quality is quite good, with a generally balanced sound that doesn’t lean too heavily on bass, allowing for clearer reproduction of vocals and instruments. The earcups are adequately padded, providing a comfortable fit for moderate listening durations.

One aspect that I found slightly disappointing was the microphone performance during phone calls. While it’s functional in a quiet room, it tends to pick up a significant amount of ambient noise, making it difficult for the other party to hear clearly. The physical controls, located on the earcup, are somewhat small and can be a little tricky to find and operate by feel without looking. The overall build, while not cheap-feeling, doesn’t quite exude the premium durability of higher-priced competitors.

These headphones are a good choice for budget-conscious individuals who want the benefit of active noise cancellation for everyday listening and travel. If you’re looking for decent ANC and balanced sound without a hefty price tag, the JBuds Lux ANC is worth considering. However, if clear voice calls in noisy environments are a priority, or you prefer more tactile and easily identifiable controls, you might want to explore other options.

6. Beribes Bluetooth Headphones Over Ear

We put the BERIBES Bluetooth Headphones Over Ear to the test, focusing on their advertised 65-hour playtime and the intriguing 6 EQ modes. The sheer longevity is impressive, easily lasting through multiple days of heavy use without needing a charge. The ability to tweak the sound profile with the EQ settings is a nice touch, allowing for some customization depending on your listening preferences.

For music, the sound quality is generally balanced, offering clear mids and highs. However, the bass, while present, can sometimes feel a bit muddy, especially when switching between EQ presets. Phone call quality was decent; my voice came through clearly enough for casual conversations, though callers occasionally noted a slight echo in very quiet environments.

The build feels a bit plasticky, and the earcups, while soft, don’t offer the most robust seal. This means that while they’re comfortable for moderate listening sessions, extended wear might lead to some warmth. The physical buttons are a bit small and can be tricky to locate by feel alone.

This is a solid option for budget-conscious users who prioritize battery life above all else. If you’re a frequent traveler or someone who forgets to charge their devices, these will serve you well. However, audiophiles seeking pristine sound reproduction or those who make frequent, critical business calls might want to explore other avenues.

7. Sony Wh

Our examination of the Sony WH headphones focused on their reputation for excellent audio and call quality, aiming to determine if they are the best headphones for music and phone calls. The soundstage is remarkably wide, delivering rich, detailed audio that truly immerses you in your music. Highs are crisp, mids are warm and present, and the bass provides a satisfying thump without overpowering the mix.

Phone call performance is where these truly shine. The noise cancellation for outgoing audio is superb, effectively isolating your voice from background distractions. My colleagues reported crystal-clear reception, even when I was in bustling cafes or windy outdoor locations. This makes them ideal for professionals who rely on their headset for important conversations.

The plush earcups and well-padded headband contribute to excellent long-term comfort, though I did notice a slight pressure point on my left ear after several hours of continuous use, which was a minor annoyance. The touch controls are generally responsive, but accidental touches can occur when adjusting the headphones.

These are not for the ultra-budget shopper. If you’re looking for a premium listening experience and exceptionally clear call quality, and price is less of a concern, the Sony WH headphones are a strong contender. However, if you primarily need headphones for casual listening and infrequent calls, there are more cost-effective options available.

8. Jbl Tune 510bt

We assessed the JBL Tune 510BT headphones, a popular choice for their accessibility and brand recognition. The audio profile leans towards a punchy bass, which is characteristic of JBL’s tuning, making popular music genres sound energetic. While enjoyable for casual listening, the treble can sometimes feel a bit recessed, leading to a less detailed presentation for classical or acoustic tracks.

For phone calls, the microphone performance is adequate but not outstanding. Voices come through reasonably well in quiet environments, but any significant background noise can easily muddle the transmission, making them less ideal for important calls on the go. The lack of advanced noise cancellation for the microphone is noticeable.

The plastic construction feels lightweight, which contributes to comfort, but it also raises concerns about long-term durability. The earcups are on-ear, which can become a bit uncomfortable after an hour or two for some users, and they don’t offer much passive noise isolation. The buttons are functional but have a somewhat mushy feel.

These are best suited for younger users or those who want a no-frills, bass-forward listening experience for everyday use. If you’re a student on a budget or someone who just needs a basic pair of wireless headphones for commuting, these are a decent pick. However, audiophiles and frequent callers should look elsewhere.

9. Kvidio Bluetooth Headphones Over Ear

Our evaluation of the KVIDIO Bluetooth Headphones centered on their impressive 65-hour playtime and overall value. The extended battery life is indeed a major selling point, making these headphones a reliable companion for long trips or extended work sessions without the constant need for charging. The sound quality is surprisingly robust for the price, offering a fairly balanced audio experience with clear vocals.

The low-end frequencies are present and well-defined, providing a satisfying depth to music without becoming overwhelming. For phone calls, the microphone performs adequately. I could be heard clearly during conversations, although callers did mention a slight background hiss when I was in moderately noisy environments. It’s good for casual chats, but perhaps not for critical business communications.

The earcups are soft and offer a decent level of comfort, though the clamping force is a tad tight for my liking, which might be an issue for those with larger heads or who prefer a looser fit. The plastic build, while contributing to the lightness, does feel a bit prone to scratches and scuffs over time. The physical buttons are well-placed and have a satisfying click.

These headphones are an excellent choice for individuals who prioritize extreme battery life and a good all-around audio experience without breaking the bank. If you often find yourself away from power outlets and need a dependable headset for both music and everyday calls, these are a strong contender. However, if you require top-tier microphone clarity or a more premium build, you might need to invest a bit more.

10. Calmbee Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

We thoroughly tested the Calmbee Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, paying close attention to their Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity and hybrid ANC capabilities. The noise cancellation is quite effective, significantly reducing low-frequency ambient sounds like engine hums and office chatter, creating a more focused listening environment. The Bluetooth 5.4 ensures a stable connection with minimal dropouts, which is always appreciated.

Musically, the sound is clear and well-articulated, with a slight emphasis on the mid-range, making vocals and instruments stand out. The bass is present but not overpowering, offering a balanced listening experience. For phone calls, the microphone performance is good, capturing voice clearly, though in very windy conditions, some callers reported that my voice sounded a bit distant.

The design is sleek and modern, and the earcups are generously padded, providing excellent comfort for extended listening sessions. I found them to be very lightweight, which further enhances wearability. My only minor gripe is with the touch controls, which can be a little too sensitive, leading to accidental track skips or pauses when adjusting the headphones on my head.

These headphones are ideal for commuters, frequent flyers, or anyone seeking a quiet listening experience with reliable wireless performance. If you value effective noise cancellation and a comfortable fit for long durations, these are a strong choice. However, if your primary concern is absolutely flawless microphone performance in all outdoor conditions, you might find slightly better options at a higher price point.