Introduction
This guide delves into the best in wireless on-ear headphones, highlighting the key features that set the 2024 lineup apart from its predecessors. Whether you’re looking for noise cancellation, long battery life, or seamless connectivity, the Best Wireless Over-Ear Headphones of 2024 have something for everyone.
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Table of Contents
1. Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
The Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones are a testament to the evolution of best wireless over-ear headphones in 2024, offering a blend of sophisticated design and cutting-edge technology. These headphones come in a variety of appealing colors, including Silver, Green, Pink, Sky Blue, and Space Gray, providing options to suit every style and preference.
Positive Aspects (Good Stuff)
- Sound Quality: High fidelity audio with exceptional clarity and depth.
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Industry-leading ANC for immersive sound.
- Build Quality and Comfort: Premium materials and design for comfortable long-term wear.
- Connectivity: Seamless wireless connectivity with Apple devices, plus wired connection support.
- Spatial Audio: Offers a theater-like experience with dynamic head tracking.
Negative Aspects (Bad Stuff)
- Price: Premium price point might be prohibitive for some users.
- Battery Life: 20 hours of battery life.
- Weight: Heavier than many competitors, affecting comfort over long periods.
- Carrying Case: The included case has been criticized for both design and protection.
- Limited Color Matching Accessories: The specific color (Silver) might limit matching with other Apple accessories.
| Connectivity | 9/10 |
| ANC | 9/10 |
| Sound Quality | 9/10 |
| Spatial Audio | 9/10 |
| Build Quality and Comfort | 8/10 |
| Battery Life (20 hours) | 6/10 |
| Weight | 5/10 |
| Carrying Case | 4/10 |
| Price | 3/10 |
At the heart of the AirPods Max is breathtaking audio quality, powered by an Apple-designed dynamic driver that delivers high-fidelity audio. This is further enhanced by computational audio, which leverages the Apple H1 chip and advanced software to create a breakthrough listening experience. Active Noise Cancellation allows users to focus entirely on their music by blocking outside noise, while Transparency mode offers the flexibility to stay aware of the surroundings when needed.
A unique feature of the AirPods Max is the Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, offering an immersive sound experience that adjusts to the listener’s ear shape, making it feel like the sound is coming from all around. This feature, combined with Dolby Atmos support, promises an unparalleled audio experience for music, shows, and movies.
Designed with user comfort in mind, the headphones feature a knit-mesh canopy and memory foam ear cushions, ensuring an exceptional fit that seals in sound. The seamless integration with Apple devices, including the magical experience of easy pairing and automatic switching between iPhone, iPad, and Mac, underscores Apple’s commitment to Apple users convenience. Additionally, with up to 20 hours of battery life with Active Noise Cancellation and Personalized Spatial Audio enabled, users can enjoy extended listening sessions without worrying about charging.
2. Sennheiser Consumer Audio Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones
The Sennheiser Consumer Audio Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones stand out in the 2024 market for best wireless over-ear headphones, offering an exquisite blend of audio fidelity, innovative features, and user-centric design. These headphones are available in various colors including Black, Black/Copper, Graphite, and White, catering to different style preferences while maintaining a sleek, modern aesthetic.
Positive Aspects (Good Stuff)
- Sound Quality: Sennheiser is known for superior sound quality, offering detailed highs, mids, and deep bass.
- Comfort: The MOMENTUM 4 design focuses on comfort, with plush ear cups and a lightweight frame suitable for long listening sessions.
- Battery Life: 60 hours of battery life.
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2 ensures stable and reliable connections, with support for high-quality audio codecs.
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Effective ANC technology that competes well with other premium headphones.
Negative Aspects (Bad Stuff)
- Price: While offering good value, the price may still be steep for some consumers.
- Design Subjectivity: Some users may find the design less appealing compared to other high-end headphones.
- Controls: The touch controls can be finicky for new users or those not accustomed to touch-sensitive interfaces.
- Case Quality: The carrying case might not meet the expectations in terms of protection or durability compared to the headphones themselves.
| Battery Life (60 hours) | 10/10 |
| Comfort | 9/10 |
| Sound Quality | 9/10 |
| Connectivity | 8/10 |
| ANC | 8/10 |
| Design | 7/10 |
| Price | 6/10 |
| Controls | 6/10 |
| Case Quality | 5/10 |
Central to the Momentum 4’s appeal is the maximum audio resolution provided by Sennheiser’s signature sound. This premium music quality is delivered through an audiophile-inspired 42mm transducer system and aptX Adaptive technology, ensuring listeners enjoy high-fidelity sound throughout the day. The headphones also offer personalized sound adjustments via the Sennheiser Smart Control App, which includes an integrated equalizer, presets, and sound modes for a tailor-made listening experience.
Adaptive Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology allows users to immerse themselves in their music without distractions, while the Adjustable Transparency Mode ensures they remain aware of their surroundings when necessary. This balance between isolation and awareness is a key feature for those who value both immersion and safety in their audio experience.
Designed with user comfort in mind, the Momentum 4 features a lightweight, foldable design with a padded headband and deeply cushioned ear pads. This design not only enhances comfort but also makes the headphones ideal for long listening sessions, supported by an impressive 60 hours of battery life and fast charging capability.
For those who frequently make calls or use voice assistants, the Momentum 4 excels with four digital beamforming microphones that ensure crystal-clear call quality and effective wind noise suppression. The inclusion of headphones, a carry case, USB-C charging cable, audio cable with 3.5mm and 2.5mm jacks, and an airplane adapter make this set highly versatile and travel-friendly.
With its focus on delivering exceptional audio quality, user comfort, and practical features, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones embody the essence of what consumers seek in best wireless over-ear headphones in 2024. Whether for music, calls, or immersive audio experiences, these headphones are a compelling choice for audiophiles and everyday users alike, ensuring a premium listening experience that stands out in the competitive landscape of wireless audio devices.
3. Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones
The Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones mark a significant milestone in the evolution of best wireless over-ear headphones in 2024. With its sleek black design, these headphones are not just a treat for the eyes but also boast an array of features that cater to the demands of modern users looking for high-quality audio and convenience in one package.
Positive Aspects (Good Stuff)
- Bass Technology: Skullcandy’s Crusher range is known for its immersive bass experience with adjustable sensory bass technology.
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Offers effective noise cancellation, reducing external noise and enhancing the listening experience.
- Battery Life: 50 hours suitable for extended listening sessions.
- Build Quality: Durable design tailored for comfort with premium materials.
- Connectivity: Reliable wireless connectivity, making it easy to connect to various devices.
Negative Aspects (Bad Stuff)
- Weight: Some users may find them slightly heavier or bulkier compared to other headphones, affecting long-term comfort.
- Sound Balance: While excelling in bass, some critiques note that the mids and highs can sometimes be overshadowed, affecting overall sound quality balance.
- Price: Pricing can be a consideration, as there are competitive options with similar features.
- ANC Performance: While effective, the ANC might not be as superior as that offered by some high-end competitors.
- Control Complexity: Some users may find the control scheme a bit complex or less intuitive.
| Bass Technology | 9/10 |
| Battery Life (50 hours) | 8/10 |
| Connectivity | 8/10 |
| ANC | 7/10 |
| Build Quality | 7/10 |
| Price | 7/10 |
| Sound Balance | 6/10 |
| Control Complexity | 5/10 |
| Weight | 5/10 |
At the core of the Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 is the innovative Crusher Tech, which allows users to adjust the sensory bass level. This feature enables listeners to customize their audio experience, from a subtle bass boost to an intense, skull-shaking bass experience, enhancing the enjoyment of music, movies, and games on iPhone, Android, or computer devices.
One of the standout features of these headphones is the custom sound capability. The Crusher ANC 2 headphones analyze the user’s hearing to produce a sound profile that is uniquely tailored to them. This personalized audio experience, combined with an unprecedented level of comfort, sets the Crusher range apart from its competitors.
Noise cancellation on the Crusher ANC 2 is described as epic, with four microphones actively muting external noise. Users can adjust the noise cancellation level to suit their environment, from complete mute to allowing some ambient sound through for safety and awareness.
Battery life is another area where the Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 excels, offering up to 50 hours of playback on a single charge. This extensive battery life, coupled with quick charging capabilities (10 minutes of charging for 4 hours of playback), ensures that users are rarely left without their music.
The headphones also feature multipoint pairing, allowing them to be connected to two devices simultaneously and seamlessly switch between them, for example, from watching a movie on a laptop to taking a call on a phone. With Alexa built-in, users can easily play music, get directions, control smart home devices, and more, adding a layer of convenience and integration with the wider ecosystem of smart devices.
4. Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones
The Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones are a defining choice for those seeking the apex of best wireless over-ear headphones in 2024. These headphones, available in sophisticated color options like Black, Midnight Blue, and Silver, are not just a statement of style but a showcase of Sony’s commitment to audio excellence and innovative noise cancellation technology.
Positive Aspects (Good Stuff)
- Sound Quality: The WH1000XM5 headphones are renowned for their exceptional sound quality, offering rich, detailed audio reproduction.
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Sony’s industry-leading ANC technology provides unparalleled noise cancellation, enhancing the listening experience in noisy environments.
- Battery Life: 30 hours these headphones offer impressive battery life, suitable for long listening sessions without frequent charging.
- Comfort: Designed with comfort in mind, they feature plush ear cups and a lightweight structure that can be worn for extended periods.
- Connectivity: Bluetooth technology ensures stable and seamless wireless connections with a variety of devices.
Negative Aspects (Bad Stuff)
- Price: High-end pricing places them in the premium segment, potentially out of reach for some consumers.
- Touch Controls: While innovative, some users may find the touch controls less intuitive or responsive under certain conditions.
- Design Bulkiness: Despite being comfortable, some users might consider them bulky for on-the-go use.
- Limited Multi-Device Pairing: Compared to some competitors, the multi-device pairing could be more seamless.
- Case Durability: The carrying case, although functional, may not offer the level of protection or durability expected at this price point.
| Sound Quality | 9/10 |
| ANC | 9/10 |
| Battery Life (30 hours) | 8/10 |
| Comfort | 8/10 |
| Connectivity | 8/10 |
| Touch Controls | 7/10 |
| Design Bulkiness | 6/10 |
| Case Durability | 6/10 |
| Price | 5/10 |
Featuring two processors that control eight microphones, the WH-1000XM5 offers unprecedented noise cancellation capabilities. The Auto Noise Canceling Optimizer automatically adjusts the level of noise cancellation to match the wearer’s environment and wearing conditions, ensuring optimal audio experience at all times. Sound quality is another area where the WH-1000XM5 shines, with engineering that brings audio to perfection. The integration of the new Processor V1 enhances every beat and note, delivering magnificent sound that satisfies even the most discerning audiophiles.
Crystal clear hands-free calling is made possible by four beamforming microphones, precise voice pickup, and advanced audio signal processing. This ensures that every conversation is as clear and uninterrupted as the music playback.
Battery life is impressive, with up to 30 hours of playback on a single charge. The quick charging feature is a boon for those on the go, offering 3 hours of playback with just a 3-minute charge. Such efficiency ensures that your music or calls are hardly ever interrupted by a low battery.
The design of the WH-1000XM5 emphasizes comfort and durability, featuring an ultra-comfortable, lightweight design with soft fit leather that allows for extended periods of wear without discomfort. The multipoint connection feature adds convenience by allowing users to quickly switch between devices, making it perfect for juggling between music playback and calls across different platforms.
With Alexa built-in, the WH-1000XM5 headphones integrate seamlessly into your smart ecosystem, allowing for easy access to music, directions, and smart home controls with simple voice commands.
The Sony WH-1000XM5 sets a high standard for best wireless over-ear headphones in 2024, combining exceptional noise cancellation, superior sound quality, crystal clear calling, and user-centric design into a package that is as stylish as it is functional. Whether for personal enjoyment, professional use, or staying connected on the move, the WH-1000XM5 is a testament to Sony’s leadership in the audio technology landscape.
5. Beats Studio Pro – Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones
The Beats Studio Pro Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones emerge as a standout choice in the realm of best wireless over-ear headphones for 2024, blending cutting-edge technology with stylish design. Available in colors like Black, Deep Brown, Navy, and Sandstone, these headphones cater to a wide array of personal preferences, ensuring that users don’t have to compromise on aesthetics for quality.
Positive Aspects (Good Stuff)
- Sound Quality: Beats headphones are known for their dynamic sound profile, emphasizing strong bass and clear mids and highs.
- Versatile Connectivity: The inclusion of wireless, Bluetooth, USB-C, and 3.5mm connectivity options makes them highly versatile for different devices and situations.
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Effective ANC for immersive listening experiences in noisy environments.
- Battery Life: 40 hours offers long battery life on a single charge, suitable for extended listening sessions.
- Design and Comfort: Stylish design with comfortable ear cups designed for long listening periods.
Negative Aspects (Bad Stuff)
- Price: The Beats Studio Pro may be priced at a premium, which could be a barrier for some buyers.
- Bass-Heavy Sound Signature: While the bass-forward sound signature is appealing to some, it may not suit all listeners’ preferences, especially those seeking a more balanced audio profile.
- Weight: Some users might find them slightly heavier, impacting comfort over extended use.
- ANC Performance vs. Price: Although the ANC is good, some users expect even higher performance at this price point compared to leading competitors.
- Durability Concerns: There have been occasional user reports concerning the build quality and durability over time.
| Sound Quality | 8/10 |
| Battery Life (40 hours) | 8/10 |
| Design and Comfort | 8/10 |
| ANC | 7/10 |
| Bass-Heavy Sound Signature | 6/10 |
| Weight | 6/10 |
| Durability Concerns | 6/10 |
| Price | 5/10 |
Central to the Beats Studio Pro experience is the custom acoustic platform, which delivers rich and immersive sound quality, whether you’re engrossed in your favorite tracks or engaged in calls. The inclusion of three distinct sound profiles further enhances this experience, allowing users to tailor their audio based on their current activity or mood.
Listening modes are versatile, featuring fully-adaptive Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) for those moments when you want to block out the world and immerse yourself in music, and Transparency mode for when you need to stay aware of your surroundings. This flexibility ensures that the Beats Studio Pro headphones are suitable for a wide range of environments, from the quiet of your home to the bustling streets of the city.
Compatibility is a strong suit of these headphones, offering one-touch pairing and a robust set of features that work natively with both Apple and Android devices. This seamless integration across platforms enhances the user experience, making these headphones a versatile choice for gadget enthusiasts with multiple devices.
Personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking is another highlight, placing the listener at the center of a 360-degree audio experience that is as immersive as it is personalized. This feature elevates the listening experience, making movies, music, and games feel more alive and engaging.
Battery life is impressive, offering up to 40 hours of total playback, ensuring that users can enjoy long periods of listening without interruption. The Fast Fuel charging feature is particularly notable, providing up to 4 hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge, making these headphones ideal for those on the go.
Call quality has not been overlooked, with voice-targeting microphones that filter out background noise, ensuring that your voice comes through loud and clear, regardless of the environment.
Conclusion: Best Wireless Over-Ear Headphones 2024
The landscape of best wireless over-ear headphones 2024 is defined by remarkable advancements in sound quality, connectivity, and user comfort. Leading brands have introduced headphones that combine immersive audio experiences with long battery life, seamless device integration, and personalized features like adaptive noise cancellation and spatial audio. The emphasis on ergonomic design, alongside smart functionalities such as voice assistants and app controls, highlights the evolution of headphones into essential, multifunctional gadgets for modern users. This year’s lineup not only meets but exceeds expectations, showcasing a commitment to innovation and user satisfaction in the personal audio space.
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