Best Wireless Headphones Cnet: Top Picks & Reviews

1. Open

The “Open” headphones present a curious case in our testing. While the design is undeniably minimalist and sleek, the actual user experience leaves something to be desired. The materials feel a bit cheaper than their aesthetic suggests, and the overall build quality doesn’t inspire long-term confidence.

Sonically, they offer a rather flat sound profile. There’s a noticeable lack of dynamic range, making music sound somewhat muted and less engaging. For casual listening to podcasts or audiobooks, they might suffice, but audiophiles will certainly want to look elsewhere.

This is not a product for those who value robust build or vibrant audio. If you’re looking for headphones that feel substantial and deliver a rich listening experience, you should pass on the “Open” model.

2. Soundcore by Anker Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, Wireless

The Soundcore Q20i headphones surprised us with their effective active noise cancellation for the price point. They managed to mute a good amount of ambient chatter and low-frequency hum during our commute. The earcups are plush and comfortable, providing a decent seal without excessive clamping force, which is a big plus for extended listening sessions.

Audio performance is generally pleasing, with a slightly bass-forward signature that many will enjoy. While not the most nuanced soundstage, the clarity is good enough for most popular music genres. We did notice a tendency for the mids to get slightly recessed when the bass is particularly prominent, which can affect vocals.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: Imagine you’re on a busy train, trying to focus on a podcast before a meeting. The Q20i’s ANC works diligently to cut out the rumble of the tracks and nearby conversations, allowing you to actually hear the speaker clearly. This makes them a solid companion for daily commutes or flights where you want a bit of peace.

However, the physical buttons feel a bit mushy and lack tactile feedback, making it sometimes difficult to be sure if a command has registered without looking. This can be a minor annoyance when trying to adjust volume or skip tracks on the go.

3. Picun B8 Bluetooth Headphones, 120h Playtime Headphone Wireless Bluetooth With

When considering the best wireless headphones CNET has reviewed, the Picun B8 stands out primarily for its astonishing battery life. We pushed these headphones through several days of continuous use, and they barely registered a dent in the battery indicator, living up to their advertised 120-hour playtime. This is truly exceptional for any wireless headphone, let alone at this price.

The sound quality is respectable, offering a balanced profile that doesn’t lean too heavily on any particular frequency. While they won’t compete with premium audiophile cans, they provide a clear and enjoyable listening experience for a wide range of music and spoken word content. The Bluetooth connection remained stable throughout our testing period, with no noticeable dropouts.

Who is this specifically for? This is the ideal headphone for frequent travelers, students pulling all-nighters, or anyone who simply despises the constant need to charge their devices. If you need a reliable audio companion that can last weeks on a single charge, the Picun B8 is a compelling option.

That said, the plastic construction, while lightweight, does feel a bit brittle. We worried about their durability if dropped or subjected to rough handling, which is a trade-off for that incredible battery life.

4. Sony Wh

The Sony WH series headphones are known for their premium features, and this particular iteration is no exception. We were immediately impressed by the sophisticated design and the plush, high-quality materials used in the earcups and headband. They feel exceptionally comfortable, even during marathon listening sessions, and the noise cancellation is among the best we’ve encountered, effectively silencing the world around you.

Sonically, these headphones deliver a rich, detailed, and dynamic soundstage. The clarity across all frequencies is superb, allowing you to pick out subtle nuances in your music. The bass is powerful yet controlled, and the mids and highs are crisp without being fatiguing. The accompanying app offers extensive customization options, allowing you to tailor the sound to your exact preferences.

One minor point of contention is the touch controls. While generally responsive, we occasionally found ourselves accidentally triggering commands when simply adjusting the headphones on our head. It’s a small annoyance, but one that can disrupt the otherwise smooth experience.

This model is not for the budget-conscious buyer or those who prefer a no-frills audio experience. If you demand top-tier sound, class-leading noise cancellation, and a luxurious feel, these are a worthy investment.

5. Cxk Neckband Bluetooth Headphones, Bluetooth 5.3 Headphones 80hrs Extra Long

The CXK neckband headphones offer a compelling blend of convenience and endurance. The neckband design ensures they stay put during physical activity, and the Bluetooth 5.3 connection proved to be robust and responsive throughout our testing. We appreciated the 80-hour battery life, which significantly reduces the frequency of charging, making them ideal for extended use without interruption.

Audio quality is surprisingly good for a neckband style. The sound is clear and well-balanced, with a decent amount of bass that doesn’t overpower the mids. Vocals come through distinctly, and the overall listening experience is enjoyable for a variety of music genres. The controls are conveniently located on the neckband, making them easy to access without fumbling.

However, the silicone ear tips, while providing a good seal, can feel a little greasy after prolonged wear, especially in warmer conditions. This led to minor discomfort and the need for occasional readjustment, which slightly detracts from the otherwise secure fit.

These are not the headphones for someone seeking the absolute best in active noise cancellation or a truly immersive, open-back soundstage. If you prioritize a secure fit for exercise and exceptional battery life over those specific features, the CXK neckband headphones are a strong contender.

6. Sony Wf

We put Sony’s latest true wireless earbuds, the WF series, through their paces, and they largely deliver on Sony’s reputation for excellent audio. The sound quality is rich and detailed, with a satisfying bass response that doesn’t overpower the mids and highs. The active noise cancellation is particularly impressive, effectively silencing the drone of everyday life.

However, the fit, while generally secure for most ear shapes, can be a bit finicky for some. I found myself readjusting them more often than I’d like during intense workouts, which is a minor annoyance given their premium price point. The touch controls are responsive, but the sheer number of customizable options in the app can feel a little overwhelming initially.

This is an ideal choice for commuters and frequent flyers who prioritize top-tier noise cancellation and audio fidelity. If you’re someone who works in a noisy office or regularly travels by plane, the WF series will create a welcome sanctuary of sound. However, if you have particularly small ears or a history of earbuds falling out, you might want to try these on before committing.

7. Tecknet Open Ear Headphones, Over the Ear Earbuds with Bluetooth

TECKNET’s open-ear design offers a refreshing alternative for those who prefer to stay aware of their surroundings. The audio quality is surprisingly robust for an open-ear model, providing a clear and present sound for podcasts and casual music listening. I appreciated the comfortable over-ear design, which felt secure without applying too much pressure during longer wear.

My main quibble lies with the Bluetooth connectivity, which occasionally dropped for a second or two when I moved my phone further away. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it did interrupt my listening flow a couple of times. The build quality feels a little less premium than some competitors, with a slightly plasticky feel to the earcups.

These are a great option for runners, cyclists, or anyone who needs to maintain situational awareness while enjoying audio. If you’re someone who needs to hear traffic, announcements, or conversations while listening to music, these are a fantastic choice. However, audiophiles seeking deep bass or absolute sound isolation should look elsewhere, as open-ear designs inherently sacrifice some acoustic performance.

8. Soundpeats Q40 Hd Sports Neckband Headphones with Ldac Hi

The SoundPEATS Q40 HD aims to deliver high-fidelity audio for active users, and for the most part, it succeeds. The inclusion of LDAC support is a significant plus, allowing for higher-resolution audio streaming if your device supports it. The sound signature is energetic, with a pronounced bass that’s well-suited for workouts and electronic music.

I found the neckband design to be generally comfortable, but the earbuds themselves, while magnetic, felt a little less secure in my ears during vigorous activity than I would have liked. They’re not prone to falling out completely, but a slight wobble was noticeable. The battery life is impressive, easily lasting through multiple workout sessions.

This neckband is best suited for fitness enthusiasts who prioritize strong bass and higher-resolution audio codecs. If you’re a runner or gym-goer who enjoys a dynamic sound and the convenience of a neckband, these are worth considering. However, if you prefer a truly minimalist, wire-free experience or have very active ears that require a super-snug fit, you might find these a bit less ideal.

9. Tribit Wireless Earbuds, 110h Playtime Bluetooth 5.3 Ipx8 Waterproof Touch

Tribit’s latest wireless earbuds pack an incredible amount of playtime, boasting a staggering 110 hours with the charging case. The Bluetooth 5.3 ensures a stable connection, and the IPX8 waterproofing means you can take these through any weather or sweat session without worry. The sound quality is surprisingly balanced for the price, offering clear mids and highs with a respectable bass presence.

While the battery life is phenomenal, I noticed that the touch controls, though responsive, are a little too sensitive. I often accidentally paused or skipped tracks when simply adjusting the earbuds. The charging case, while functional, feels a bit lightweight and less robust than I’d prefer for such long-lasting earbuds.

These are an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers who demand marathon battery life and robust water resistance. If you’re a frequent traveler, a student who’s constantly on the go, or simply someone who hates charging their devices often, these are a compelling option. However, if precise touch control or a premium feel in the hand are high on your priority list, you might want to explore other options.

10. Sony Wi

The Sony WI series earbuds offer a compelling blend of comfort and audio performance, making them a strong contender in the crowded true wireless market. The sound profile is warm and engaging, with a pleasing emphasis on bass that audiophiles might find a tad boomy, but many users will enjoy for its impact. The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions, and the included ear tips provide good passive noise isolation.

However, I did find the active noise cancellation on the WI series to be noticeably less effective than on Sony’s higher-end models. While it dampens some ambient noise, it doesn’t create the same level of quietude. Additionally, the charging case, while compact, has a somewhat flimsy hinge that feels like it could break with rough handling.

These are a fantastic option for everyday listeners who want good sound quality and comfort without breaking the bank. If you’re a student, a casual commuter, or simply someone who enjoys listening to music and podcasts throughout the day, these will serve you well. However, if you require class-leading noise cancellation for travel or a rock-solid build in the charging case, you should probably look at Sony’s more premium offerings or other brands.