Five best headphones earbuds, and soundbars

There has never been more opportune time to invest in top-notch headphones, earbuds, or soundbars
An undated image of headphones. — Pixabay
An undated image of headphones. — Pixabay

It has been an exhilarating year for audio technology and headphones. There has never been a more opportune time to invest in top-notch headphones, earbuds, or soundbars. In this article, we are reviewing the best headphones of the year 2024 so far. You can choose as per your choice.

Best headphones

Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless

The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless headphones have risen as the leading selection of consumers this year. What distinguishes these headphones is their extraordinary 60-hour battery longevity, which sets a new benchmark.

Alongside their cozy wear, Sennheiser's distinctive sound quality and effective noise cancellation make the Momentum 4 headphones one of the most convenient wireless options we have come across.

While last year's winner, the Sony WH-1000MX5, remains an overall favorite of customers, Sennheiser has acquired Tom’s Guide’s prestigious Editor's Pick endorsement by raising the bar this year for other brands.

Best noise-canceling headphones: Apple AirPods Pro 2

When it comes to noise-canceling technology, brands like Bose and Sony often come to mind. However, the Apple AirPods Pro 2 earbuds rival over-ear headphones in their ability to provide extended periods of tranquility.

With the forthcoming new features of an ambient audio mode that accommodates your surroundings, these earbuds are poised to make an even greater impact.

Even without this feature, the AirPods Pro 2 proves to be an excellent partner for extended journeys, and vigorous workouts in loud fitness centers and other bustling surroundings. Furthermore, their dynamic transparency feature intelligently leverages active noise cancellation (ANC) to restrict excessive surrounding auditory distraction.

Best wireless earbuds: Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2

The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2 shines as the best wireless earbuds Tom’s Guide assessed this year, presenting adjustable sound, exceptional ANC, and a revamped design.

With a scaled-down by one-third compared to their forerunners, the second-generation QC Earbuds elevate the wireless listening experience in every aspect.

The elegant and harmonious sound quality is genuinely astounding, and the call performance is top-notch. Exclusive technologies like ActiveSense and CustomTune exceed at balancing sound and noise elimination, setting Bose's latest earbuds apart in the competitive industry. For those seeking a premium pair, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2 come enthusiastically recommended.

Best value earbuds: JLab Epic Air Sport ANC (2nd Gen)

JLab consistently furnishes versatile earbuds with extraordinary battery performance, making them excellent great bang for the buck.

While we appreciate the original $79 Epic Air Sport ANC earbuds, the JLab Epic Air Sport ANC (2nd Gen) launched last year and went beyond what was anticipated. Valued at $99, these geared-for workouts earbuds feature a dependable ear-hook design for a snug fit, IP66-certified protection against dirt and moisture, and active noise cancellation (ANC).

With invigorating and harmonious sound delivery, they are placed among the top budget-friendly wireless earbuds we have tested. These earbuds are well suited to both frequent audio consumers and those pursuing physically active lifestyles.

Best audiophile headphones: Bowers & Wilkins Px8

Harmonizing luxurious design and premium sound, Bowers & Wilkins continues to amaze with their latest release.

The-top-of-the-line Bowers & Wilkins Px8 ANC over-ear headphones, launched in late 2022, embody the zenith of audiophile headphones.

They kept all the qualities we cherished about last year's acclaimed Px7 S2 while integrating deluxe materials for enriched comfort and updated drivers that deliver ideal audio quality.

The Px8 headphones offer an incredibly nimble and captivating wireless listening experience, making them a must-have for audiophiles who place importance on sound quality.

FeatureSennheiser Momentum 4 WirelessApple AirPods Pro 2Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2JLab Epic Air Sport ANC (2nd Gen)Bowers & Wilkins Px8
Price$399$299$249$79$660
Noise CancellationExcellentExcellentVery goodGoodGood
Transparency ModeYesYesYesYesYes
Battery LifeUp to 7 hours (ANC on)Up to 4.5 hours (ANC on)Up to 6 hours (ANC on)Up to 8 hours (ANC on)Up to 30 hours (ANC off)
Size and WeightEach earbud is 0.7 oz and 0.86 inchesEach earbud is 0.19 oz and 0.86 inchesEach earbud is 0.3 oz and 0.75 inchesEach earbud is 0.2 oz and 0.7 inchesEach earbud is 0.5 oz and 0.8 inches
ConnectivityBluetooth 5.2Bluetooth 5.0Bluetooth 5.0Bluetooth 5.2Bluetooth 5.0
Water ResistanceIPX4 ratedIPX4 ratedIPX4 ratedIPX4 ratedIPX4 rated
Other FeaturesActive EQ, aptX AdaptiveSpatial audio, adaptive EQAdaptive noise cancellation, hear-through modeAmbient sound passthrough, volume control on earbudsHigh-Resolution Audio, adjustable ANC
ProsExcellent sound quality, active EQ, long battery lifeExcellent noise cancellation, spatial audio, comfortable fitExcellent noise cancellation, adaptive noise cancellation, hear-through modeGood sound quality, affordable price, long battery lifeExcellent sound quality, high-resolution audio, adjustable ANC
ConsExpensiveExpensive, fit can be inconsistentExpensive, touch controls can be finickyBulky charging caseExpensive