Best wireless headphones 2025?! If you want the best combination of active noise cancellation, features, and price, the Sony WH-1000XM6 is the safest buy right now. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra are supremely comfortable and reliably silence the world, but they require the right Android combination for hi-res audio. The AirPods Max (USB-C) are still the king of iOS/macOS integration and surround sound, but they cost significantly more, are heavier, and are less updated in terms of hardware.
Buy good headphones with active noise cancellation (ANC) is like choosing the perfect coffee-to-go: all three of our picks are great, but each has a different aftertaste. The best wireless headphones of 2025 are all different in a few ways. In 2025, the battle of the three heavyweights is clear: Sony is with the series 1000X pressed the "even quieter" button again, Bose remains synonymous with comfort and peace on the plane, while Apple plays the cards of ecosystem, surround sound and... high price. Important note: Apple is not officially calling the new model "AirPods Max 2"- this is the AirPods Max version with USB-C (2024) and subsequent software updates.
How We Judged – Best Wireless Headphones 2025
We reviewed the latest European prices and realistically achievable offers (official price lists and comparators), and summarized the findings of several testers (The Guardian, What Hi-Fi?, SoundGuys, RTINGS, The Verge). This article brings together the common denominator of these tests, clearly separating hard data from feelings that can be adjusted with equalizer (EQ) and app settings. At the same time, we also tested ourselves in a multi-month test. This is our opinion – the best wireless headphones 2025!
Sony WH‑1000XM6
EU prices: Officially ~€449; typical promotions €419–449 at EU retailers (MediaMarkt, Idealo, Coolblue, Boulanger).
What reviewers say:
The biggest step forward is even more effective suppression of high-frequency noise (speech, typing, train), thanks to the new QN3 processor and 12 microphones. They maintain 30+ hours of playback, the return of the foldable design and natural ambience/transparency; they support SBC, AAC, LDAC and LC3, and run on BT 5.3 with multipoint connection.
Battery and charging:
In labs, times ranged from ~32 hours (RTINGS) to ~37 hours (SoundGuys). You get fast charging (about 3 minutes for ~3 hours) and the useful ability to listen while charging – but audio doesn’t come through USB-C, but through the included 3.5mm cable.
Sound and comfort:
The factory profile is warm and inviting, with great bass but no excessive “boom”. The EQ in Sony Headphones Connect allows for fine-tuning, so you can get a more neutral signature out of them – if you want. The ~254g weight and extended headband mean less pressure during extended use.
Advantages
– Class-leading ANC (especially towards higher frequencies).
– Very long autonomy; multipoint; LDAC and LC3.
– Foldable design and better calls than before.
Shortcomings
– No audio via USB‑C (listening while charging requires a 3.5‑mm cable).
– No water resistance (like most over-ear ANC).
Who is it for:
For travelers, hybrid workers and everyone, who want the most ANC and features for ~€450If you're between platforms (Android/iOS) or want LDAC, this is the safest choice.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra
EU prices: officially ~€399.95; in reality we often see them in the EU for €329–349 (Coolblue, Amazon, idealo FR), even lower during promotions.
What reviewers say:
These are some of the most comfortable ANC headphones, with exceptional attenuation and improved transparency. New is Bose's "Immersive Audio" (spatial mode), which suits some, not so much others. The microphone for calls is noticeably better than on older Bose models.
Codecs and platforms:
The QC Ultra supports Qualcomm Snapdragon Sound with aptX Lossless (great if you have a compatible Android), as well as LE Audio for future transmitters. USB-C is for charging only, wired listening is via a 2.5mm → 3.5mm cable. There is no IP rating.
Battery:
Bose claims up to 24 hours; SoundGuys measurements showed ~27:37 hours – enough for several flights in a row.
Advantages
– Highest level of comfort and very strong ANC.
– aptX Lossless and LE Audio for the future on Android.
– Foldable, practical case.
Shortcomings
– “Immersive” is hit-or-miss and not for every genre.
– No audio via USB‑C, no IP‑rating.
Who is it for:
If comfort and silence are your top priorities, and you have an Android with Snapdragon Sound support – a great choice. For iPhone users, ANC is great, but without the Apple candy.
Apple AirPods Max (USB‑C, 2024)
Note about the name:
Many stores and media outlets call them "AirPods Max 2", and Apple officially markets them as AirPods Max with USB‑C (2024) – new connector and new colors; later an update for lossless and ultra‑low‑noise USB‑C audio came.
EU prices: Officially €579 (Apple DE/IE); street prices in the region often €489–549 (Geizhals, Idealo).
What reviewers say:
The sound remains top-notch for closed-back Bluetooth headphones, the transparency (“Transparency mode”) is perhaps the most natural on the market, and the integration with the ecosystem is unrivaled (instant switching between iPhone, Mac, Apple TV, Dolby Atmos surround sound). When the USB-C version was released, critics pointed out that Apple kept the old chips and didn’t add any major hardware innovations; 2025 brought significant consolation: lossless audio and ultra-low latency via USB-C cable.
Weight and battery:
They are significantly heavier than the competition (≈386 g) and with ~20 hours of battery life, they can't keep up with Sony/Bose.
Advantages
– The best experience in the Apple ecosystem; superior transparency and surround sound.
– From March 2025 onwards: lossy/low-latency USB-C audio (wired).
– Premium build, new USB‑C and colors.
Shortcomings
– High price and greater weight; autonomy ~20 h.
– Hardware less fresh than the competition; "Smart Case" remains... specific.
Who is it for:
For iPhone/Mac users who want the most seamless user experience at home, on the train and next to Apple TV. But if you live outside of Apple Garden or weight is important to you, check out Sony/Bose.
Quick price overview (EU, typical situation)
– Sony WH‑1000XM6: RRP ~€449, real €419-449.
– Bose QC Ultra: RRP ~€399.95, realistically €329-349.
– AirPods Max (USB-C): RRP €579, realistically ~€489-549.
Which model for whom?
Most versatile (“carry-on” champion): Sony WH-1000XM6
Because they combine the strongest ANC (even for high frequencies) with a long battery life, LDAC/LC3 and a foldable design. If you travel a lot, this is a safe choice.
Most comfortable for long hours: Bose QuietComfort Ultra
If you want a "cloud" on your head and silence, Bose is still the reference - an added plus if you have an Android with aptX Lossless support.
Best choice for iPhone/Mac: AirPods Max (USB-C)
Surround sound, device switching, the most natural transparency, and new USB-C lossless audio—but expect a higher price and weight.
Conclusion: Best Wireless Headphones 2025
There are no bad choices in this trio – there are just different balances. The Sony WH‑1000XM6 are a rational champion of features and silence; the Bose QuietComfort Ultra are a zen studio for your ears; the AirPods Max (USB‑C) are hi‑fi glamour with a spatial charm that will shine best within Apple’s garden. If you’re buying in the EU and are looking for value, most readers will be best served by Sony; if you’re “team comfort” and are comfortable with Android, Bose is the clear choice; but if you want “Apple all‑in” and love surround sound in movies, you’ll find the AirPods Max a no-brainer – it’ll just be a bit heavier on your wallet.
