Best Headphones for iPhone: Top Picks for 2024

1. Wireless Earbuds Deep Bass Sound Ear Buds, Bluetooth 5.3 Headphones

We put these wireless earbuds through their paces, and for their price point, the sound quality is surprisingly robust. The deep bass is definitely noticeable, making music genres with a strong low-end presence really pop. Pairing them with my iPhone was straightforward, and the Bluetooth 5.3 connection remained stable during my testing walks.

However, the fit of the earbuds themselves is a bit generic, and I found myself readjusting them more often than I’d like, especially during more vigorous activity. While the charging case feels solid, the glossy finish is a fingerprint magnet, which is a minor aesthetic annoyance.

This is a good option for someone looking for budget-friendly wireless earbuds that deliver on bass without breaking the bank. If you’re an audiophile or need a secure fit for intense workouts, you might want to explore other, more specialized options.

2. Apple Earpods Headphones with Lightning Connector, Wired Ear Buds for iPhone

The classic Apple EarPods with a Lightning connector are a reliable choice for iPhones that still feature this port. The sound profile is balanced and clear, which is great for podcasts, calls, and general music listening. I appreciated the simple plug-and-play functionality; no pairing or charging required, which is a significant convenience for many users.

The in-line remote is intuitive, allowing for easy volume adjustment and playback control without fumbling for your phone. My primary gripe, however, is the somewhat thin cable; I always worry about its long-term durability and potential for tangling, despite its lightweight design.

These are ideal for iPhone users who prefer wired connections for their simplicity and reliability, or for those who don’t want to worry about battery life. If you’re looking for advanced noise cancellation or a truly wireless experience, these are not the earbuds for you.

3. Apple Earpods Headphones with USB-C

These USB-C equipped EarPods offer a straightforward audio solution for newer iPhones and iPads. The sound quality remains consistent with Apple’s standard, providing clear mids and highs suitable for everyday listening. I found the USB-C connection to be quite secure, and the audio latency was virtually non-existent, which is always a plus.

While they offer a no-fuss audio experience, the lack of any kind of ear tip customization means the fit can be hit or miss for some individuals. This can lead to a less immersive listening experience if they don’t sit snugly in your ears. For those searching for the best headphones for iPhone with a wired option, these are a solid, albeit basic, contender.

This product is perfect for users who need a dependable wired headset for calls and general audio consumption with their USB-C equipped Apple devices. If you prioritize a custom fit or are looking for premium audio features, you’ll likely need to look elsewhere.

4. Apple Airpods 4 Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth Headphones, Personalized Spatial Audio

The AirPods 4 bring a refined wireless audio experience to the iPhone ecosystem. The sound is exceptionally well-tuned, and the addition of personalized Spatial Audio creates an impressive sense of immersion, especially when watching compatible content. The integration with my iPhone was, as expected, utterly effortless, and the battery life is more than adequate for a full day’s use.

However, the charging case, while compact, has a tendency to slide around on smooth surfaces, which makes me a little nervous about it falling off tables. Furthermore, the glossy white finish, while iconic, is a magnet for scuffs and scratches over time, diminishing its pristine look.

These are for the dedicated Apple user who values deep integration and advanced audio features like Spatial Audio. If you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more rugged, less glossy aesthetic, you might want to reconsider.

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

The Soundcore Q20i headphones deliver a surprisingly effective active noise cancellation for their price. I found the ANC to significantly dampen low-frequency ambient sounds, making commutes and office environments much more peaceful. The audio quality is quite good, with a pleasing warmth and good detail across various music genres, and the battery life is exceptionally long-lasting.

My main point of critique is the build quality of the earcups; while comfortable for short periods, the plastic feels a bit lightweight and I question its long-term durability with frequent use. Also, the physical buttons for controls are a little small and can be tricky to locate by feel alone.

These are an excellent choice for anyone seeking effective noise cancellation on a budget, especially for travel or noisy commutes. If you demand premium materials, a more compact design, or very precise button controls, you might find better options elsewhere.

6. Apple Airpods Pro 3 Wireless Earbuds, Active Noise Cancellation, Live Listen

As someone who’s constantly on the go, I’ve put the Apple AirPods Pro 3 through their paces, and for iPhone users, they truly are a compelling option. The active noise cancellation is remarkably effective, creating a quiet bubble even in bustling environments. I found myself genuinely surprised by how well they silenced the drone of airplane engines and the chatter of busy cafes.

The sound quality is, as expected from Apple, well-balanced and clear, with a pleasing warmth that makes music enjoyable. The transparency mode is also a standout feature, allowing you to hear your surroundings without removing the earbuds, which is crucial for safety and convenience. The fit is comfortable for extended wear, with the silicone tips providing a good seal.

However, I did notice that the touch controls, while responsive, can sometimes be a little too sensitive; I occasionally paused music when I meant to adjust the fit. For those who demand absolute customizable EQ settings or a more robust build for extreme sports, these might feel a bit too refined.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: Imagine navigating a busy airport. With the AirPods Pro 3, you can effortlessly switch between blocking out the surrounding noise to focus on your boarding pass announcements and then activating transparency mode to hear a colleague calling your name. It’s this adaptive audio that makes them so practical for daily commutes and travel.

7. Sony Wh-1000xm5 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones

When considering the best headphones for iPhone, the Sony WH series consistently comes up, and for good reason. I’ve always appreciated Sony’s commitment to sound fidelity, and these headphones deliver a rich, detailed audio experience that’s particularly enjoyable for audiophiles. The bass response is present without being overpowering, and the mids and highs are crisp.

The active noise cancellation on these is top-tier, often matching or even exceeding competitors in its ability to create a serene listening environment. I particularly liked the adaptive sound control, which automatically adjusts ambient sound settings based on your activity or location. The build quality feels premium, with plush earcups that offer excellent comfort for hours of listening.

My one recurring annoyance, however, is the companion app. While it offers extensive customization, I found the interface to be a bit clunky and less intuitive than I would prefer. For users who prefer a simpler, plug-and-play experience, this might be a minor hurdle.

Who it is NOT for: If you’re looking for a lightweight, truly wireless earbud experience for intense workouts, these over-ear headphones are definitely not your ideal choice. Their bulk, while contributing to comfort and sound isolation, makes them less suited for vigorous physical activity.

8. Wired Headphones for iPhone Earbuds with Built-in Mic

For iPhone users who haven’t yet embraced the wireless revolution or are simply looking for a reliable wired option, these earbuds offer a straightforward solution. The sound quality is surprisingly decent for the price point, providing clear vocals and a respectable amount of detail in the music. I found them perfectly adequate for casual listening and podcasts.

The built-in microphone is functional, allowing for clear calls without any noticeable distortion. The cable feels durable enough for everyday use, and the simple design means there’s no battery to worry about charging. This plug-and-play simplicity is a major advantage for many.

However, the comfort and fit are where I felt they fell a bit short. The ear tips are a one-size-fits-most approach, and I experienced some discomfort after extended listening sessions. They also lack any active noise cancellation, meaning ambient sounds can easily intrude on your audio experience.

Who it is NOT for: If you’re an audiophile seeking nuanced sound or someone who needs active noise cancellation to focus in loud environments, you’ll want to look elsewhere. These are best suited for basic audio needs and convenience.

9. USB-C Wired Headphones for iPhone 17/16/15

Transitioning to USB-C for iPhones means these wired earbuds are a relevant choice for many. I tested these with an iPhone 15, and the connection was instant and stable, providing a consistent audio stream. The sound quality is quite good for wired earbuds, offering a balanced profile with clear highs and a decent bass presence that doesn’t muddy the mix.

The integrated controls on the cable are a welcome feature, allowing for easy volume adjustment and playback control without needing to reach for your phone. The build of the earbuds themselves feels sturdy, and the cable has a nice tactile feel, suggesting decent durability. I appreciated the lack of latency, which is inherent with wired connections.

My primary critique lies with the earbud design. While they sit reasonably well, I found the shape to be a bit generic, and they don’t offer the secure, in-ear seal that some higher-end models provide, which can affect bass response and passive noise isolation. They also don’t come with multiple ear tip sizes.

Real-Life Usage Scenario: Picture yourself on a crowded train, trying to listen to a podcast without the constant rumble of the tracks interfering. While these don’t offer active noise cancellation, their decent passive isolation and clear audio help to make the listening experience more enjoyable than with earbuds that have a poor fit. They’re great for daily commutes where you need a no-fuss audio solution.

10. 2 Packs USB-C Wired Headphones for iPhone 17/16/15 Pro Max

Having a two-pack of USB-C wired headphones for iPhones is a practical consideration, especially if you tend to misplace earbuds or want a spare. I found the sound quality to be quite consistent between both pairs, offering a balanced audio experience suitable for everyday listening. The clarity of vocals and instruments is commendable at this price point.

The USB-C connection is reliable, and I experienced no dropouts during my testing. The inline remote provides easy access to volume and playback functions, which is always a plus for convenience. The inclusion of a second pair in the package is excellent value, ensuring you always have a backup readily available.

However, the build quality, while functional, feels a bit basic. The plastic construction on the earbuds themselves is lightweight but lacks a premium feel, and I noticed a slight tendency for the cable to tangle more than I would like. They also offer minimal passive noise isolation, meaning external sounds can easily penetrate.

Who it is NOT for: If you’re seeking a durable, long-term audio solution with exceptional sound fidelity or robust noise isolation, these might not be the best fit. They are best suited for users who prioritize affordability and convenience with a backup option.