Best Headphones for Apple Devices: Top Picks for 2024

1. Apple Earpods Headphones with USB

We tested the Apple EarPods with USB-C, and while they offer a familiar experience, the audio quality is precisely what you’d expect from wired earbuds at this price point. The sound is clear for basic listening, but lacks the depth and richness for audiophiles. The build quality feels adequate, though the plastic construction doesn’t inspire premium confidence.

The integrated USB-C connector is convenient for newer Apple devices, eliminating the need for dongles. I appreciated the simplicity of just plugging them in and having them work instantly. However, the cable length felt a tad short for comfortable use while my iPhone was in my pocket, often tugging slightly.

This is a solid option for casual listening or for those who prefer the reliability of a wired connection over Bluetooth. If you’re looking for something to get you through conference calls or background music during your commute, these will serve you well. However, serious music lovers or anyone seeking an immersive soundstage should look elsewhere.

2. Beats Solo 4

During our evaluation of the Beats Solo 4, I was immediately struck by their vibrant design and comfortable on-ear fit. The earcups are plush, making them suitable for extended listening sessions without significant discomfort. The sound signature leans towards the bass-heavy side, which is characteristic of Beats, providing a punchy and energetic listening experience that’s great for pop and hip-hop.

I found the active noise cancellation to be effective, though not class-leading; it does a decent job of muting ambient chatter and low-frequency rumbles. Battery life is impressive, easily lasting through multiple days of moderate use. However, I did notice that the plastic headband, while flexible, felt somewhat prone to creaking under pressure, which detracted slightly from the premium feel.

These are ideal for younger users or anyone who prioritizes a strong bass response and a stylish aesthetic. If you’re a fan of energetic music genres and want headphones that make a statement, the Solo 4s are a compelling choice. Those who prefer a more neutral sound profile or a more robust build might want to explore other options.

3. Apple Earpods Headphones with Lightning Connector

We put the Apple EarPods with Lightning Connector through their paces, and as expected, they offer a straightforward, no-fuss audio solution for iPhones without a headphone jack. The sound is balanced and clear, making them perfectly adequate for podcasts, calls, and general music listening. The integrated microphone is also quite good, capturing voice with clarity.

The Lightning connector ensures a direct, high-quality digital audio signal, which is a definite plus. I found the fit to be comfortable for short to medium durations, though they don’t offer much in the way of passive noise isolation. The biggest annoyance, however, is the lack of any volume controls directly on the earbuds themselves; you always have to reach for your phone.

These are undeniably among the best headphones for Apple devices if you value simplicity and a direct connection. They are perfect for users who have an older iPhone or prefer the simplicity of wired audio and don’t mind the lack of inline controls. If you need volume adjustments on the go or want a more secure fit for active use, you should consider alternatives.

4. Apple Airpods 4 Wireless Earbuds

Our experience with the Apple AirPods 4 revealed a refined listening experience, especially with the introduction of Personalized Spatial Audio. The soundstage feels more immersive, offering a sense of depth that enhances movies and music. The fit is comfortable and secure for most ear shapes, and the charging case is compact and easy to pocket. Bluetooth connectivity is, as expected from Apple, very stable.

I was impressed by the battery life, which easily got me through a full workday with the case providing multiple recharges. The transparency mode is also excellent, allowing me to hear my surroundings without removing the earbuds. However, the touch controls, while functional, can sometimes be a little too sensitive, leading to accidental activations when adjusting them.

These are an excellent choice for those deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem who want a convenient and high-quality wireless audio experience. If you frequently consume media and appreciate the added immersion of spatial audio, these are a strong contender. Anyone who is sensitive to accidental touch controls or prefers physical buttons might find them frustrating.

5. Apple Earpods Headphones with 3.5mm Plug

Testing the Apple EarPods with the classic 3.5mm plug reminded us of their enduring simplicity and broad compatibility. The audio quality is consistent with what we’ve come to expect: clear, balanced sound suitable for everyday tasks. They’re lightweight and the familiar design offers a passable fit for many users, though they don’t seal the ear canal for any significant passive noise reduction.

The 3.5mm jack is a welcome sight for those still rocking older iPhones or Android devices with the port. I found the integrated microphone to be reliable for calls and voice commands. The main drawback, however, is the lack of any substantial bass; music can sound a bit thin and lacking in impact for genres that rely heavily on low-end frequencies.

These are a good option for anyone needing a no-frills, universally compatible wired headset. They are ideal for users who prioritize simple plug-and-play functionality and don’t require a premium audio experience. If you’re a bass lover or need a more secure fit for physical activity, you’ll definitely want to look elsewhere.

6. Apple Airpods 4 Wireless Earbuds

We’ve put the latest generation of AirPods through their paces, and for many Apple users, these continue to be a strong contender. The compact design makes them incredibly portable, slipping easily into any pocket or small bag. Pairing with Apple devices is, as expected, instantaneous, and the overall user experience feels refined.

The active noise cancellation is improved, effectively muting low-frequency hums like airplane engines or office air conditioning. The sound profile is balanced and clear, perfect for podcasts and general music listening. Battery life sees a respectable bump, meaning you can get through a full workday without needing to reach for the charging case.

However, I noticed that the fit, while generally secure for most ears, can still feel a bit loose during intense workouts. For those who require a rock-solid fit during vigorous activity, you might want to consider earbuds with ear fins or a more customizable ear tip system. The charging case, while functional, feels a little less premium than some competitors’ offerings.

This is a fantastic option for the everyday Apple user who values convenience and solid ANC performance. If you’re deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem and want a no-fuss audio solution for commuting, calls, and casual listening, these are worth your consideration. Skip these if you’re an audiophile seeking nuanced sound reproduction or an athlete needing an exceptionally secure fit for high-impact sports.

7. Apple Airpods Max 2 Wireless Over-Ear

The AirPods Max 2 represent Apple’s premium entry into the over-ear headphone market, and for those within the Apple ecosystem, they offer an unparalleled integration. The build quality is immediately apparent, with a satisfying weight and a luxurious feel from the aluminum earcups and stainless steel frame. The digital crown provides precise volume control, a feature I found surprisingly intuitive after initial adjustment.

Sound quality is exceptional, delivering rich bass, clear mids, and crisp highs that satisfy even discerning listeners. The spatial audio feature, when paired with compatible Apple content, creates an immersive soundstage that truly envelops you. Active noise cancellation is among the best we’ve tested, effectively silencing the outside world for focused listening or travel.

My primary critique lies with the ear cushions; while comfortable for extended periods, they can become warm during prolonged use, especially in warmer environments. This is a minor annoyance, but noticeable for some. The lack of a standard 3.5mm headphone jack means you’ll need an additional adapter for wired connections, which feels like an oversight at this price point.

These are the best headphones for Apple devices if your budget allows and your priority is top-tier audio, ANC, and deep ecosystem integration. They are ideal for frequent travelers, home office workers, and anyone who wants the ultimate Apple audio experience. Avoid these if you’re on a tight budget, prefer a lighter headphone, or frequently need to connect via a wired connection without additional accessories.

8. Apple Airpods Pro 3 Wireless Earbuds

The AirPods Pro 3 continue Apple’s tradition of excellence in the true wireless earbud space, offering a refined experience for iPhone and iPad users. The in-ear design provides a secure fit for most, and the inclusion of multiple ear tip sizes ensures a good seal for optimal noise cancellation and sound quality. The transparency mode is exceptionally natural, allowing you to hear your surroundings without removing the earbuds.

Active noise cancellation is a standout feature, effectively blocking out a significant amount of ambient noise, making commutes and busy environments much more pleasant. The audio quality is punchy and well-balanced, suitable for a wide range of music genres and spoken word content. Battery life is adequate for daily use, with the charging case providing multiple recharges.

However, I did find that the touch controls on the stems, while generally responsive, can sometimes be a bit too sensitive, leading to accidental activations when adjusting the earbuds. This is a minor frustration, but it does require a bit of getting used to. For users with very small ears, the fit might still present a challenge even with the smallest tips.

These are an excellent choice for anyone seeking a premium true wireless earbud experience with top-tier ANC and deep Apple integration. They are particularly well-suited for commuters, office workers, and those who frequently make calls. If you’re looking for earbuds with physical buttons or a more rugged design for extreme sports, you might want to look elsewhere.

9. Beats Studio Pro Premium Wireless Over-Ear

Beats has stepped up its game with the Studio Pro, offering a compelling alternative for those who appreciate a more robust sound profile and stylish design. The build quality feels substantial, with a comfortable clamping force that ensures they stay put without causing discomfort during long listening sessions. The physical buttons for playback and ANC control are a welcome tactile experience, which I prefer over touch controls.

The sound signature leans towards a more bass-forward presentation, which is characteristic of Beats, but it’s well-controlled and doesn’t overpower the mids and highs. Active noise cancellation is effective, though perhaps not quite as absolute as some of its direct competitors. Battery life is impressive, easily lasting through a full day of use and then some.

My main observation is that the ANC, while good, doesn’t completely eliminate the highest frequencies of ambient noise. This means very sharp sounds like distant sirens might still be faintly audible. The included carrying case, while protective, feels a bit bulky and takes up more space in a bag than I’d prefer.

These are a great option for users who enjoy a dynamic sound profile with punchy bass and solid ANC. They are ideal for listening to genres like hip-hop, electronic, and pop music. If you’re an audiophile who prioritizes a neutral sound signature or requires the absolute best in noise cancellation for extreme environments, you might find other options more suitable.

10. C6 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

The C6 headphones offer a budget-friendly entry into the world of active noise cancellation, and for the price, they deliver a respectable performance. The build is predominantly plastic, which contributes to their light weight, making them easy to wear for extended periods. Pairing via Bluetooth is straightforward, and they connect reliably to a range of devices.

The active noise cancellation does a decent job of reducing low-frequency ambient noise, such as the drone of a fan or traffic. The sound quality is adequate for casual listening, with a balanced profile that doesn’t lean too heavily in any particular frequency range. Battery life is surprisingly robust, providing many hours of playback on a single charge.

However, I must note that the earcups, while soft, don’t create the most robust seal, which can impact the effectiveness of the ANC against higher-pitched or more sudden noises. The plastic construction, while lightweight, does feel a bit less durable than more premium offerings, and I worry about long-term wear and tear. The sound quality, while balanced, lacks the detail and clarity found in higher-end headphones.

These are a good choice for students, budget-conscious travelers, or anyone looking for basic ANC functionality without breaking the bank. They are suitable for general listening and commuting. Skip these if you demand top-tier noise cancellation, premium build materials, or nuanced audio fidelity for critical listening.