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10 Best Sony Headphones 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Premium Noise Canceling Overhead Headphones with Mic for Phone-Call and Alexa Voice Control, Black WH1000XM4

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,265
Sound Quality
Noise Cancellation
Battery Life

Most important from
61043 reviews

Sound Quality
Sound quality is great, clear, and without issues, outperforming the XM5 and almost matching the Apple AirPods Max.
Noise Cancellation
The noise cancellation on the XM4 is almost comparable to the Apple AirPods Max and is much better than the XM5, with the added advantage of a manual on/off button.
Battery Life
Battery life is exceptional, lasting for days without needing a recharge and featuring automatic shut-off to save power.
Comfort
The XM4s are incredibly comfortable even for long periods, especially for those who wear glasses, although the headband might cause slight discomfort after extended use.
Connectivity
Connectivity is seamless with Apple devices, with no issues experienced unlike with the XM5, and the Sony Connect app adds a user-friendly layer of control.
Durability
Despite the plastic build, the XM4 feels sturdy and durable, much better than the XM5 which felt flimsy.
Additional Features
Gesture controls work accurately, and the companion app with built-in EQ allows for extensive customization, a boon for Apple users.

The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Premium Noise Canceling Overhead Headphones are a top-tier choice for those seeking high-quality sound and effective noise cancellation. With Dual Noise Sensor technology, these headphones excel in blocking out ambient sounds, making them ideal for travel or noisy environments. The sound quality is impressive, enhanced by EDGE AI and DSEE Extreme for upscaling digital music files, ensuring a rich audio experience. The 30-hour battery life with quick charging is a huge plus, providing long listening sessions with just a short charge time.

Touch sensor controls add convenience for managing playback, volume, and calls without needing to reach for your device. The Speak-to-Chat feature is innovative, pausing your music automatically when you start talking, although this may not be perfect for everyone if you often sing or talk to yourself while wearing headphones. Comfort is another strong suit, with an updated design that reduces pressure for extended wear, though some users might still find them slightly bulky for very long periods.

Connectivity is seamless with Bluetooth 5.0 and multipoint connection, allowing you to pair with multiple devices effortlessly. Despite being packed with features, the headphones are not water-resistant, which could be a limitation for some users. Durability-wise, they are well-built and sturdy but remain lightweight at 9 ounces. Additional features such as superior call quality with five built-in microphones and adaptive sound control for personalized listening make these headphones versatile. The included protective case and detachable cable add extra value. These headphones are best suited for users who prioritize sound quality, noise cancellation, and long battery life in their daily usage.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,265
Sound Quality
Noise Cancellation
Battery Life

Most important from
61043 reviews

Sound Quality
Sound quality is great, clear, and without issues, outperforming the XM5 and almost matching the Apple AirPods Max.
Noise Cancellation
The noise cancellation on the XM4 is almost comparable to the Apple AirPods Max and is much better than the XM5, with the added advantage of a manual on/off button.
Battery Life
Battery life is exceptional, lasting for days without needing a recharge and featuring automatic shut-off to save power.
Comfort
The XM4s are incredibly comfortable even for long periods, especially for those who wear glasses, although the headband might cause slight discomfort after extended use.
Connectivity
Connectivity is seamless with Apple devices, with no issues experienced unlike with the XM5, and the Sony Connect app adds a user-friendly layer of control.
Durability
Despite the plastic build, the XM4 feels sturdy and durable, much better than the XM5 which felt flimsy.
Additional Features
Gesture controls work accurately, and the companion app with built-in EQ allows for extensive customization, a boon for Apple users.
#2

Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Headphones Bluetooth On-Ear Headset with Microphone and up to 50 Hours Battery Life with Quick Charging, Black

Rating
9.6
Sound Quality
Noise Cancellation
Battery Life

Most important from
24651 reviews

Sound Quality
The sound quality is great at this price point, with good to very good performance and customizable EQ settings.
Noise Cancellation
The headphones do a great job of blocking out surrounding noise, even though they are not fully noise-canceling.
Battery Life
Battery life is impressive, easily lasting several days of daily use without needing a recharge.
Comfort
Comfort is well-addressed; they’re lightweight and snug without feeling tight, making them suitable for long listening sessions.
Connectivity
Bluetooth connectivity is seamless, with quick pairing and stable connections across devices.
Additional Features
The setup is relatively easy, especially with the Sony Headphones Connect App, which allows for personalized settings and EQ adjustments.

The Sony WH-CH520 wireless on-ear headphones offer a mix of convenience and quality, making them a good option for everyday use. Their standout feature is the impressive 50-hour battery life, which can accommodate long trips and busy days without frequent recharging. Quick charging is an added benefit, ensuring you can quickly get back to your music. Sound quality is customizable through the Sony Headphones Connect App, allowing you to adjust the EQ to your preference.

However, the lack of noise cancellation may be a drawback if you are looking for a quiet listening experience in noisy environments. Comfort is well-addressed with a lightweight build, swivel earcups, adjustable headband, and soft ear pads, making extended use more pleasant. Connectivity is robust with Bluetooth 5.2, multipoint connection, and easy pairing with both smartphones and Windows 10 computers, though the absence of a wired option might be a limitation for some users.

Durability is typical of Sony's standards, with a plastic build that is sturdy yet light. Additional features like hands-free calling, DSEE for enhanced audio quality, and Fast Pair for locating your headphones add to the overall appeal. However, the headphones are not water-resistant, which may limit their use in various weather conditions. Available in four colors, these headphones suit different style preferences. The Sony WH-CH520 headphones are a solid choice for those who prioritize battery life, sound customization, and comfort but may not meet the needs of those requiring noise cancellation or water resistance.

Rating
9.6
Sound Quality
Noise Cancellation
Battery Life

Most important from
24651 reviews

Sound Quality
The sound quality is great at this price point, with good to very good performance and customizable EQ settings.
Noise Cancellation
The headphones do a great job of blocking out surrounding noise, even though they are not fully noise-canceling.
Battery Life
Battery life is impressive, easily lasting several days of daily use without needing a recharge.
Comfort
Comfort is well-addressed; they’re lightweight and snug without feeling tight, making them suitable for long listening sessions.
Connectivity
Bluetooth connectivity is seamless, with quick pairing and stable connections across devices.
Additional Features
The setup is relatively easy, especially with the Sony Headphones Connect App, which allows for personalized settings and EQ adjustments.
#3

Sony ZX Series Wired On-Ear Headphones with Mic, Black MDR-ZX110AP

Rating
9.3
Sound Quality
Comfort and Fit
Durability

Most important from
109492 reviews

Sound Quality
The headphones deliver clear sound with decent bass and highs, making them suitable for everyday music and calls.
Comfort and Fit
Comfortable ear pads are great for short listening sessions, though they can feel a bit tight during extended use.
Durability
Build quality is acceptable given the price, balancing lightness with reasonable durability.
Connectivity
The wired connection means no battery worries but limits freedom of movement with a 4-foot cable.
Type (Over-Ear, On-Ear, In-Ear)
Lightweight and foldable design makes these headphones easy to carry around and convenient for travel.

The Sony ZX Series MDR-ZX110AP are wired on-ear headphones designed for users who want good sound quality and comfort without breaking the bank. They have 30mm neodymium drivers that deliver punchy bass and clear mids and highs, making your music sound lively and full. The cushioned ear pads and lightweight design mean you can wear them comfortably for longer periods, and the earcups swivel, making it easy to fold and carry them around when traveling.

These headphones come with an inline microphone and remote, so you can take hands-free calls and control your music easily if your device supports it. They do not have active noise cancellation, so background sounds won’t be blocked out, which might be a downside if you want a more immersive listening experience in noisy environments. Being wired with a 3.5mm plug means no battery worries, but it also means they are less convenient if you prefer wireless freedom.

The cable is 4 feet long, which is a good length for everyday use but might feel limiting if you want to move a lot. Durability is decent for the price, with plastic materials that keep the headphones light but might not be as rugged as more expensive models. These headphones suit casual listeners looking for an affordable, comfortable, and simple option, especially for use with smartphones, tablets, or laptops in quiet to moderate noise settings.

Rating
9.3
Sound Quality
Comfort and Fit
Durability

Most important from
109492 reviews

Sound Quality
The headphones deliver clear sound with decent bass and highs, making them suitable for everyday music and calls.
Comfort and Fit
Comfortable ear pads are great for short listening sessions, though they can feel a bit tight during extended use.
Durability
Build quality is acceptable given the price, balancing lightness with reasonable durability.
Connectivity
The wired connection means no battery worries but limits freedom of movement with a 4-foot cable.
Type (Over-Ear, On-Ear, In-Ear)
Lightweight and foldable design makes these headphones easy to carry around and convenient for travel.

Buying Guide for the Best Sony Headphones

When it comes to picking the right Sony headphones, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences. Sony offers a wide range of headphones, each designed to cater to different types of users. Whether you're looking for something to use during workouts, for professional audio work, or just for casual listening, understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision. Here are some key specs to consider when choosing Sony headphones and how to navigate them to find the best fit for you.
Type (Over-Ear, On-Ear, In-Ear)The type of headphones refers to their design and how they fit on or in your ears. Over-ear headphones have large ear cups that cover your entire ear, providing excellent sound quality and noise isolation, making them ideal for home use or professional settings. On-ear headphones rest on your ears and are more portable, but they may not offer the same level of noise isolation. In-ear headphones, also known as earbuds, fit inside your ear canal and are highly portable, making them great for on-the-go use. Choose the type based on where and how you plan to use your headphones.
Noise CancellationNoise cancellation is a feature that reduces unwanted ambient sounds using active noise control. This is particularly important if you plan to use your headphones in noisy environments like airplanes, public transport, or busy offices. There are different levels of noise cancellation, from basic to advanced. If you need to focus in noisy settings, look for headphones with advanced noise cancellation. If you just need a bit of quiet, basic noise cancellation might suffice.
Sound QualitySound quality encompasses the clarity, balance, and richness of the audio produced by the headphones. This is crucial for audiophiles, musicians, or anyone who values high-fidelity sound. Sound quality can vary greatly between models, with some emphasizing bass, others offering a more balanced sound, and some providing high-resolution audio. Consider what type of sound profile you prefer and what you'll be listening to most often. For example, bass-heavy headphones might be great for hip-hop, while balanced sound might be better for classical music.
Battery LifeBattery life is important for wireless headphones, as it determines how long you can use them before needing to recharge. This is especially crucial for travelers or those who use headphones for extended periods. Battery life can range from a few hours to over 30 hours on a single charge. If you need headphones for long trips or all-day use, look for models with longer battery life. For shorter, more casual use, a shorter battery life might be acceptable.
Comfort and FitComfort and fit are essential for ensuring that you can wear your headphones for extended periods without discomfort. This includes the materials used for the ear pads, the weight of the headphones, and the adjustability of the headband. Over-ear and on-ear headphones should have soft, cushioned ear pads and an adjustable headband. In-ear headphones should come with different sizes of ear tips to ensure a snug fit. Consider how long you'll be wearing the headphones and choose a model that feels comfortable for that duration.
ConnectivityConnectivity refers to how the headphones connect to your devices. This can include wired connections, Bluetooth, or other wireless technologies. Wireless headphones offer more freedom of movement and are great for activities like working out or commuting. However, wired headphones can provide a more stable connection and better sound quality. Some models offer both options. Consider how you plan to use your headphones and choose the connectivity that best suits your needs.
DurabilityDurability is important if you plan to use your headphones in various environments or if you tend to be rough on your gear. This includes the build quality, materials used, and any water or sweat resistance. Look for headphones with sturdy construction and materials that can withstand daily wear and tear. If you plan to use them for workouts or outdoor activities, consider models with water or sweat resistance.

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