5 Best Bluetooth Speakers for Quality Music on the Go

Image Courtesy of Basshead Speakers

Bluetooth speakers are a must-have for all music lovers due to their fantastic audio quality, portability, and durability. They’re the perfect go-to solution for music fans who want to take their tunes with them wherever they go – even if that’s just to the garage, garden, or down to the beach.

There is a huge range of portable speakers to choose from. This is great news since more products means you’ll be able to choose the one that fulfills all your needs. However, it can also be quite challenging to choose just one speaker among so many of them.

That is why we prepared this Bluetooth speaker guide! We examine the benefits of owning a Bluetooth speaker, features to look out for, and, of course, the best Bluetooth speakers currently available on the market. Keep scrolling to find the perfect one for you!

Best Selling Bluetooth Speakers on the Market in 2020

#	Preview	Product	Rating	Price
1		Sony Srs-XB12 Compact and Portable Waterproof Wireless Speaker...	19,448 Reviews	£36.00	Buy on Amazon
2		Anker SoundCore mini, Super-Portable Bluetooth Speaker with...	52,428 Reviews	£17.24	Buy on Amazon
3		Anker [Upgraded] SoundCore 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker with 12W...	40,796 Reviews	£27.99	Buy on Amazon
4		Anker SoundCore 24-Hour Playtime Bluetooth Speaker with 10W...	24,347 Reviews	£21.99	Buy on Amazon
5		Axloie Portable Bluetooth 5.0 Speaker, Colorful Light TWS...	1,398 Reviews	£14.07	Buy on Amazon
6		Bluetooth Speaker, ENACFIRE SoundBar Portable Wireless Speakers...	5,397 Reviews	£29.99	Buy on Amazon

Our Top 5 Bluetooth Speakers Reviewed

1. Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 3 Wireless Bluetooth Speaker
2. Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker with Microphone
3. Tronsmart Force 40W Portable Speaker With 3D Stereo
4. Sony SRS-XB12 Compact and Portable Waterproof Wireless Speaker with Extra Bass
5. JBL Flip 5 Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Best Bluetooth Speakers Reviewed

1. Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 3 Wireless Bluetooth Speaker

Sale

4,115 Reviews

Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 3 Wireless Bluetooth Speaker (Powerful...

• MEGABOOM features powerfully loud, clear, and immersive 360° sound...
• MAGIC BUTTON: play, pause, skip tracks on the speaker. Push for...
• Charge MEGABOOM 3 wirelessly with POWER UP charging dock–sold...

−£50.00 £119.99

Buy on Amazon

Looking for a speaker you can take anywhere with you and never worry that you might break it? MEGABOOM 3 is one of the best Bluetooth speakers you can get. It features powerfully loud, clear, and immersive 360° sound with deep thundering bass you can both hear and feel. You won’t find a better party starter than this speaker! If any of your friends owns another Ultimate Ears Bluetooth speaker, you can pair them for an even better musical experience.

When it comes to the durability, MEGABOOM 3 is one of the most rugged speakers you can get. Unlike many other speakers that are marked as waterproof, but are only water-resistant, MEGABOOM 3 is designed to get seriously wet and keep on booming. Featuring an insane IP67 water and dustproof rating, it can be totally submerged in water for up to 30-minutes. Also, the speaker floats, so you can take in the pool with you.

The manufacturer describes MEGABOOM 3 as “virtually indestructible.” The speaker underwent more than 25 rigorous durability tests including thousands of button pushes, tumbles, and drop tests before it was launched. This way, you’ll get to enjoy your music without worrying that something will happen to your speaker.

Last but not least, this Bluetooth speaker can last you for 20 hours after a single charge. You can also get a wireless charging dock that is sold separately, to keep your speaker’s battery always full.

What we like:

• A high-quality Bluetooth speaker that is virtually indestructible;
• MEGABOOM 3 can be paired with other Ultimate Ear speakers;
• The speaker is not only waterproof, but it can also float on water and be submerged for up to 30 minutes;
• The battery life is 20 hours on a single, full charge;

What we don’t like:

• The accompanying app for the speaker is not well optimized.

Buy on Amazon

2. Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker with Microphone

138 Reviews

Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (2nd Generation) Portable Waterproof...

• Powerful sound: Enjoy Bang & Olufsen Signature Sound when you’re on...
• Waterproof speaker: Share your soundtrack on the go, with a durable...
• Listen longer: Improved battery power so you can enjoy music and...

£199.00

Buy on Amazon

Bang & Olufsend Beosund A1 is one of the most high-tech Bluetooth speakers that delivers stunning audio quality. The company is known for making high-quality products that are far from ordinary and that are not pitched at the majority of the population. For that reason, this Bluetooth speaker is pricier than others you’ll come across.

The Beosound A1’s design resembles an oversized hockey puck. The speaker features a waterproof leather base and drilled holes in an aluminum top surface that make up for an elegantly designed speaker that feels substantial in your hand.

What makes this model one of the best Bluetooth speakers you can get? Well, The Beosound A1 is the world’s first Bluetooth-only voice assistant speaker. You can take it on your travels and access Alexa as it relies on your smartphone’s data connection. The speaker also has extraordinary battery life. At a typical listening volume of 70dB, the battery can last up to 18 hours. However, if you listen music at more moderate levels (55 dB), this speaker can last for up to 48 hours.

Last but not least, with IP67 this product is fully dust resistant and waterproof.

What we like:

• A high-quality speaker with a stunning design;
• The product is fully dust resistant and waterproof;
• The speaker is compatible with Alexa;
• Battery life is extraordinary – from 18 to 48 hours, based on listening volume.

What we don’t like:

• The speaker is very pricey.

Buy on Amazon

3. Tronsmart Force 40W Portable Speaker With 3D Stereo

Sale

1,860 Reviews

Bluetooth speaker 5.0, Tronsmart Force 40W Portable Speaker With...

• 【40W Powerful Output】 40W dual-driver system is capable to reach...
• 【Equalizer Sound Effect】 Tronsmart FORCE 3 equalizer audio modes...
• 【IPX7 Waterproof】 Wanna bring your portable speaker outside? Enjoy...

−£30.00 £39.99

Buy on Amazon

Tronsmart Force 40W is one of the best Bluetooth speakers you can get at an affordable price. At around £50 you’ll be getting a rugged and waterproof portable Bluetooth speaker with the latest USB-C charging and Bluetooth 5.0. Besides the Bluetooth connectivity, this speaker lets you play music off a microSD card. Also, if you have a device with NFC support, you can quickly pair it to the speaker using its NFC sensor.

The speaker has three EQ modes – default Extra Bass with no LED lit, 3D Sound with blue LED lit and Standard mode with white LED lit. You can easily cycle between the modes and the speaker remembers your chosen mode even after it’s turned off. When you turn Extra Bass on, the speaker has a surprising amount of bass considering its small size and it’s also much louder.

Tronsmart Force 40W features two built-in batteries that take about three hours to fully charge. After that, they can provide about 15 hours of music time at medium volume. The speaker also has a feature called True Wireless Stereo (TWS) that allows you to link two speakers to form a stereo pair.

What we like:

• A quality, rugged Bluetooth speaker that comes at an affordable price;
• It takes the speaker 3 hours to fully charge; the run time is about 15 hours;
• In addition to Bluetooth, the speaker has NFC support and can play music off a microSD card;
• There are three EQ modes; the Extra Bass mode packs a surprising amount of bass.

What we don’t like:

• 3D Stereo and Standard EQ presets sound thin and weak with no stereo spread.

Buy on Amazon

4. Sony SRS-XB12 Compact and Portable Waterproof Wireless Speaker with Extra Bass

Sale

19,448 Reviews

Sony Srs-XB12 Compact and Portable Waterproof Wireless Speaker...

• EXTRA BASS technology for powerful sound
• Bluetooth compatible
• Waterproof, dustproof, sandproof and mudproof (IP67 rated)

−£24.00 £36.00

Buy on Amazon

When searching for the best Bluetooth speakers, you will come across many small models that deliver high-quality sound in a waterproof design. However, the Sony SRS-XB12 is one of the few models that actually live up to its claims. The speaker features a small and lightweight design, and it comes at an affordable price. But, it really packs a wallop for a speaker its size. And with IP67 rating, the speaker is fully waterproof.

If you’re looking for bass power, unfortunately, you won’t be able to get it from any speaker this size. But, the audio quality of Sony SRS-XB12 will surprise you. Sometimes, you’ll forget that you’re listening to a tiny speaker, especially when bass drums come on.

If you connect the speaker with the Sony | Music Center app, you’ll be able to control its essential functions from your smartphone. Skip the track, crank up the volume, pause the party – it’s all just a tap away. With up to 16 hours of battery life, the speaker will keep the party going for longer. A full charge will take you through a whole day of fun – and beyond.

What we like:

• Small and lightweight speaker you can take anywhere with you;
• Despite its small size, the speaker delivers loud, quality audio;
• IP67 rating means that the speaker is fully waterproof;
• The speaker can run for up to 16 hours once fully charged.

What we don’t like:

• The sound can come close to distortion on some deep bass.

Buy on Amazon

5. JBL Flip 5 Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Sale

14,195 Reviews

JBL Flip 5 Portable Bluetooth Speaker with Rechargeable Battery,...

• JBL Signature Sound - Experience impressive stereo sound with your...
• Your music, non-stop - High-capacity 4.800 mAh rechargeable battery...
• Quality sound, wherever you go - Flip 5 is fully waterproof (IPX7) so...

−£40.99 £79.00

Buy on Amazon

JBL speakers are not packed with advanced features such as Alexa integration, but they are known for their signature sound. JBL Flip 5 delivers quite a punch for its size and price; even more than the dimensions and drivers should be capable of. The bass doesn’t distort at high volume levels, thanks to some DSP (digital signal processing) that thins out the deep lows.

The speaker uses a USB-C charging port and cable and it can go from flat to fully juiced in just 2.5 hours. When fully charged, the battery can last up to 12 hours. An IPX7 rating, meanwhile, covers all the bases on the waterproofing front. The speaker also features one special button called PartyBoost. The press of this button allows you to connect to various other JBL speakers and have them all stream the same music simultaneously.

What we like:

• A high-quality speaker with outstanding sound quality;
• DSP ensures that the bass doesn’t distort at high volume levels;
• It takes 2.5 hours to fully charge the speaker; the run time is about 12 hours;
• PartyBoost button allows multiple JBL speakers to connect and stream music simultaneously.

What we don’t like:

• There is no speakerphone functionality or aux input.

Buy on Amazon

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• 5 Best Headphones for Music: Enjoy the Purest Sound with These Headphones
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Benefits of Bluetooth Speakers

Image Courtesy of 10 Best Ones

Perfect for Travel

The majority of Bluetooth speakers are slim and compact, made to perfectly fit into a suitcase, backpack, or even a purse. But, don’t let the small size discourage you. Even the smallest of Bluetooth speakers can sound surprisingly big.

Water- and Weather-Resistant

Even though not all Bluetooth speakers are made this way, there are quite a few models that are made for those who enjoy outdoor sports and activities. Some of the best Bluetooth speakers can survive rain and snow while being shock- and dust-resistant at the same time. Make sure to choose a speaker that will be as rugged as your lifestyle.

Extra Power for Smartphones

Some Bluetooth speakers feature a built-in recharger that can be quite helpful during a long flight or overnight camping trip. These speakers come with a USB charging port that can give your smartphone or tablet battery a boost.

Can Be Used as Speakerphones

There are many Bluetooth speaker models that come with a built-in microphone, meaning that you can use them as a speakerphone. When the speaker is paired with your phone, any incoming call will be routed to the speaker. From there, it is up to you whether you’ll accept the call or continue listening to your favorite beats.

A Powerful Sound System

Plenty of Bluetooth speakers are powered by a built-in battery. However, there are some models that are powered by an AC power source. They are typically larger in size, but they also offer a louder and more crisp sound than their portable counterparts. These speakers are perfect for creating a powerful sound system in your home, office, dorm room, den, or any other space where a smartphone is the source of your music and the space is at a premium.

High-Quality Audio

There are affordable speakers that slightly compromise sound quality. But, the best Bluetooth speakers can satisfy even audiophile needs. Such systems have high-performance electronics for more accurate sound. They often feature DACs (digital-to-analog converters) that reproduce the fine details of the music. These speakers also come with low-resonant MDF speaker cabinets that ensure cleaner and more accurate sound reproduction.

Wireless Computer Speakers

All laptops have Bluetooth capability, and there are special stereo speaker systems designed just for laptops. The best thing about them is that you won’t have to deal with unplugging the speaker jack every time you pick up your laptop from your workstation.

How to Choose the Best Bluetooth Speakers for Your Needs?

With so many Bluetooth speakers available, it is hard to settle down only for one. However, there are some features that distinguish the best Bluetooth speakers from average ones. Here is what you should look out for when choosing a Bluetooth speaker.

Image Courtesy of Amy Heffernan

Sound Quality

It goes without saying that the most important feature is sound quality. There’s no point getting a cheap Bluetooth speaker that will sound just a bit louder than your smartphone. Whichever model you chose, make sure to inspect sound quality first. And, sometimes, it is a bit better to invest more money if it will grant long-term satisfaction.

Some manufacturers display the total harmonic distortion of their speakers. If you see this feature, make sure it is below 1%. Also, make sure to pay attention to frequency response, as it can truly make a difference. Figures include the top and bottom frequencies that are heard before the response rolls away. Most likely, you will see numbers such as 100Hz (low frequency) to 20kHz (top frequency). As most people cannot hear up to 20 kHz, especially as we get older, the top frequency is not that important. The low-frequency point indicates the level of bass we may expect – the lower it is, the better.

Also, pay attention to audio power. Not all speakers have this feature specified. When it is stated, it is given in watts. Ten watts is loud, although when it comes to speakers in a small case, it means they will not be very efficient. Be aware that more power is needed for large rooms and for outside use.

Portable Yet Powerful

It is very difficult to find the perfect balance between portability and power. Smaller speakers tend to have a lower maximum volume, and it’s difficult to find a model with good sound quality. Choose a Bluetooth speaker, depending on your lifestyle. If you plan to carry the speaker in a backpack or even a suitcase or just move it occasionally, then feel free to get a bigger model. However, if you plan to take your speaker every day with you in a purse or a briefcase, then it is better to compromise sound quality and get a lightweight model.

Ease of Use

If you’re getting a portable Bluetooth speaker, then make sure to go for a model that features easy-to-use controls on the speaker housing and an easy-to-set-up Bluetooth connection to your smartphone or tablet. If you’re getting a Bluetooth sound system or laptop speakers, then make sure that the model you choose comes with an accompanying easy-to-use app and that the setup process is straightforward.

Battery Life

Besides sound quality, battery life is another essential feature to keep in mind. If you plan to take a Bluetooth speaker with you when you go to the beach or camping, then you need to get a model that will last for a few hours.

Smaller models tend to have smaller batteries, so don’t expect them to last for too long. However, the best Bluetooth speakers can last for up to 24 hours on a single charge. On average, a quality model will last you four to ten hours. The length of operation depends actually on how loud you play the speaker. The louder it is, the more current the speaker uses, affecting the battery life.

Keep in mind that Li-ion batteries last the longest if you ensure they don’t get completely discharged. In addition, the older the batteries get, the amount of charge they can store decreases.

Image Courtesy of DIY Smart Things

Style & Size

Bluetooth speakers come in all styles and sizes. The small, compact ones are usually in the shape of a cylinder, and they are designed to ensure maximum portability. The larger ones can also be cylindrical or rectangular. In general, the larger the speaker, the better the audio quality. Also, bigger Bluetooth speakers tend to have a more long-lasting battery life.

Durability

If you plan to take your speaker outdoors, then you need to make sure that it is durable and waterproof as well. All those who enjoy hiking or just spending a day at the beach should look for waterproof models that are also shock- and dust-resistant.

When it comes to being waterproof, the majority of models are just water-resistant, meaning that they will survive contact with water but shouldn’t be submerged. There are also fully waterproof models that are submersible, but they tend to be pricey.

Bluetooth Version

Many Bluetooth speakers manufacturers mention the Bluetooth version. The big question is what this number actually means.

When Bluetooth appeared for the first time, the first version was named v.1. Nowadays, you won’t come across devices that use this version. Most commonly, you’ll see devices that use the 2.1 version. However, there are also Bluetooth 4.0 and 5.0 updates.

As long as your speaker has Bluetooth 2.1 or higher, it will be capable of providing better sound quality. The higher versions provide some additional capabilities such as data collection from fitness trackers or other sensors. So, unless you want a super-advanced Bluetooth speaker, the 2.1 version will serve you just fine.

NFC

NFC stands for near field communication. Speakers that are equipped with this feature are more convenient to use. NFC allows compatible devices to connect to a speaker simply by tapping the two together. However, if you’re an iPhone owner, you won’t be able to take advantage of this feature. iPhones do have an NFC capability, but it is used for Apple Pay only. Luckily, connecting with Bluetooth is just as simple and takes perhaps only a few seconds longer.

Connecting Multiple Speakers

One great thing about the best Bluetooth speakers is that they can be connected to another speaker to create stereo sound. If this is something you’re looking for, then make sure to add this feature to your list of must-haves for a Bluetooth speaker.

Wired Input

The point of Bluetooth speakers is, well, to use Bluetooth to connect to them. However, there are some devices that don’t have Bluetooth, such as the iPod classic. There are two ways to resolve this issue – either get a Bluetooth transmitter or choose a speaker that has a 3.5mm jack input. This way, you’ll be able to connect all devices to it by using a suitable cable.

Speakerphone Capability

As already mentioned, there are some Bluetooth speakers that have speakerphone capability. This feature is quite useful as you won’t have to disconnect your smartphone to take a call. However, if you’re in an office with other people or by the side of a swimming pool, it can be a bit inconvenient as everyone around you will hear the conversation.

5 Best Headphones for Music: Enjoy the Purest Sound with These Headphones

Image Courtesy of RTINGS

When you are shopping for the best headphones for music, the choices can be overwhelming. More often than not, the audio and manufacturing quality of headphones are directly tied to the product’s price, and your budget will limit what you can get your hands on. If you are a true audiophile, choosing the right or wrong pair of headphones will make a difference between making and breaking your day. But if you are on a budget, some of these headphones will sound like a million dollars.

The subjective quality of the headphones for music is also very dependent on the type of music you prefer because some headphones are better suited for certain types of music than others. For example, headphones with balanced sound and immersive soundstage are better for instrumental or vocal-centric music genres like folk or jazz. On the other hand, headphones with accentuated bass are better for people who like extra kicks and thumps in their music; for example, R&B, hip-hop, or EDM.

One more thing you should consider is for what and for how long you will use the headphones on a daily basis. If you are an active person and like to listen to music while running or working out, you should consider a wireless model. If you want to enjoy your music while sitting on a couch or lying in bed, then it doesn’t matter if the headphones are wired or wireless.

All in all, everything comes down to your preferences and the amount of money you are willing to spend. If you have a big budget, you should aim high and choose some of the more expensive models. If you don’t, the best bet for you is to look out for the best manufacturing quality because, in the long run, continually replacing the fragile models will cost you a lot more.

We know that shopping and trying out can be a boring and tedious process. That is why we tested dozens of headphones for music you can find on the market, so you don’t have to, and we compiled a list of the best ones. If you keep reading, you will find the reviews on the five pairs of headphones that are guaranteed to satisfy even the most demanding ear, the benefits of having the best headphones for music, and a comprehensive buying guide.

Our Top 5 Headphones for Music Review

1. Bose SoundLink
2. Sennheiser HD 450BT
3. Sony WH-CH710N
4. Anker Soundcore Life Q20
5. OneOdio Studio

Best Selling Headphones for Music on the Market in 2020

#	Preview	Product	Rating	Price
1		Roland RH-5 HeadphOnes - Monitor HeadphOnes	1,814 Reviews	£23.00	Buy on Amazon
2		OneOdio Over Ear Headphones, Studio DJ Headphones, HiFi Wired...	16,900 Reviews	£23.98	Buy on Amazon
3		OneOdio DJ Headphones, Over Ear Headphones for Studio Monitoring...	971 Reviews	£28.99	Buy on Amazon
4		beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO Studio Headphones - 80 Ohm	10,703 Reviews	£105.00	Buy on Amazon
5		Sony MDRZX310 Foldable Headphones - Metallic Black	18,989 Reviews	£12.99	Buy on Amazon
6		OneOdio Bluetooth Headphones Over Ear Wireless Bass Boosted...	972 Reviews	£27.98	Buy on Amazon

The Best Headphones for Music: Review

1. Bose SoundLink

Sale

15,420 Reviews

Bose SoundLink Around-Ear Wireless Bluetooth Headphones II -...

• Deep, immersive sound, improved EQ performance for wireless...
• High microphone system, HD voice for clear calls in windy or noisy...
• Enhanced side tone so you sound more natural on calls and charging...

−£21.01 £117.99

Buy on Amazon

If you are looking for the best headphones for music, Bose SoundLink headphones are the best on-ear Bluetooth headphones in its price class. They look incredible and appealing with its sleek design and great color combination. If you really want to be picky about them, they are the wireless version of Bose’s SoundTrue wired headphones. SoundLink headphones, besides not having a wire, are not as compact as SoundTrue headphones because they don’t fold flat in its carrying case, so the overall size is slightly bigger.

The comfort that Bose SoundTrue headphones provide is unprecedented – they are lightweight, they fit snugly on your head, and memory foam ear cups comfortably conform to your ear. Fabric is pleasant under fingers, and cups seem durable. Unfortunately, they don’t tolerate sudden movements, shaking and jumping, so we recommend that you don’t wear them while doing heavy exercises.

When it comes to the sound quality, we have to admit that SoundTrue headphones are one of the best Bluetooth headphones we have heard. They are not quite as good as some wired headphones in its price class, but they sound natural, with good clarity and strong but balanced bass. You can occasionally hear a sliver of “Bluetooth artifacting,” but it’s unnoticeable for most people.

What we like:

• Excellent sound quality and two-way microphone system, which automatically changes volume based on speech level and ambient noise;
• Battery life rated at 15 hours;
• Well placed remote control buttons;
• Snugly and comfortable.

What we don’t like:

• A bit cumbersome carrying case.

Buy on Amazon

2. Sennheiser HD 450BT

Sale

509 Reviews

Sennheiser HD 450BT Wireless Headphones, with active noise...

• Active noise cancellation for uninterrupted listening pleasure: the...
• Great wireless sound with deep dynamic bass and high-quality codec...
• Reliable partner on the move: Always stay connected with 30-hours of...

−£70.00 £89.00

Buy on Amazon

If you are looking for a tremendous noise-canceling experience, then you should definitely consider Sennheiser HD 450BT headphones. Even though their price tag is far from inexpensive, these headphones cost much less when compared to the leading headphone models with active noise-cancellation.

Besides above-average ANC performance and excellent Bluetooth audio, Sennheiser’s headphones feature a user-adjustable EQ, extremely comfortable fit, and easy-to-operate controls. When you combine these attributes and their price, you get the best noise-canceling headphones you can buy.

Generously cushioned memory foam earpads will ensure that your ears are snugged in comfortably. Headband provides an optimal fit on your head. The semi-matte surface looks stylish. Overall, very comfortable and attractive.

32mm dynamic driver delivers powerful and precise sounds within a frequency range of 18Hz to 22kHz. The headphones are compatible with Bluetooth 5.0 and support AAC, AptX, and SBC codecs. Battery is expected to last roughly 30 hours, but your results will vary with your volume levels and your ANC usage.

All in all, they sound great, they look great, they are very comfortable, and for their price, Sennheiser HD 450BT headphones are quite a steal.

What we like:

• Excellent audio performance;
• Strong noise-cancellation ability;
• User-adjustable EQ;
• They feature wired passive mode coupled with active noise-canceling.

What we don’t like:

• Noise-cancellation is not class-leading.

Buy on Amazon

3. Sony WH-CH710N

Sale

483 Reviews

Sony WH-CH710N Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones with 35 hours...

• AI Noise Cancelling with Dual Noise Sensor technology lets you cancel...
• These long-lasting wireless bluetooth and NFC enabled headphones...
• New 30mm driver units provide the superior audio quality you'd expect...

−£18.93 £79.00

Buy on Amazon

Sony WH-CH710N are not the best headphones for music if you compare them to £400 headphones, but for their price class, they sure are. 30mm driver units deliver a frequency range of 7Hz to 20kHz and the superior audio quality you’d expect of Sony headphones with deep and robust bass and crisp and crystal-clear highs. The headphones are compatible with Bluetooth 5.0 and support AAC and SBC Bluetooth codecs, but not AptX.

The heavily cushioned earpads provide a very comfortable experience for your ears. The headband fit is also quite comfortable, and despite their bulky build, they feel exceptionally lightweight, even over long listening periods.

It features active noise-cancellation, though it’s not exceptional. The headphones successfully damp down low-frequency, while for mids and highs, it’s merely decent. You should also keep in mind that ANC does affect the audio slightly, which is somewhat common for headphones in this price range.

The left earcup houses the power button, which also serves as a pairing button, and connections for the included USB-C charging cable and the 3.5mm headphone cable.

Battery life is expected to last roughly 35 hours with ANC on or 45 hours with ANC off, but your results will also vary with your volume levels.

What we like:

• Excellent noise-cancellation for price;
• Incredible audio performance with deep bass and crisp highs;
• Can be used in passive, wired mode;
• Simple, sleek design.

What we don’t like:

• No carrying case or bag.

Buy on Amazon

4. Anker Soundcore Life Q20

Sale

13,035 Reviews

Anker Soundcore Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling...

• Hi-Res Audio Certified: Custom oversized 40 mm dynamic drivers produce...
• Reduce Ambient Noises By Up to 90%: Our team of engineers conducted...
• 100% Stronger Bass: Our exclusive BassUp technology conducts real-time...

−£15.60 £36.39

Buy on Amazon

Anker Soundcore Life Q20 are undoubtedly one of the best headphones for music you can get for an affordable price. The headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified, meaning that they are capable of producing exceptional sound. Life Q20 active noise-canceling headphones reproduce the music with extended high frequencies that reach up to 40 kHz for extraordinary clarity and detail.

Besides allowing you to listen to your favorite tunes in high resolution, these headphones also reduce ambient noises. The hybrid active noise cancellation can detect and cancel out a wider range of low and mid-frequency noises such as cars and even airplane engines. No matter where you are, you’ll be able to listen to music without any interruptions.

Last but not least, the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 headphones can last for about 40 hours of non-stop playtime in wireless active noise cancellation mode (at 60% volume). When listening to music in the standard mode, the headphones will last for about 60 hours when fully charged. If you’re ever in a rush, you can charge these headphones for just five minutes and get four hours of listening.

What we like:

• Excellent headphones that are Hi-Res Audio certified;
• The active noise cancellation feature eliminates all surrounding noises;
• The new BassUp technology strengthens the bass output;
• When fully charged, the battery lasts for up to 60 hours; 5 minutes of charging ensures four hours of music.

What we don’t like:

• BassUp mode sometimes overdoes the bass.

Buy on Amazon

5. OneOdio Studio

16,877 Reviews

OneOdio Over Ear Headphones Closed Back Studio DJ Headphones for...

• SUPERIOR SOUND: Enjoy clear sound and supreme comfort with the OneOdio...
• BUILT TO STAY COMFORTABLE: The high quality padded ear cushions are...
• NO MORE ADAPTER: A long DJ-style 9.8-foot cord easily reaches from the...

£31.99

Buy on Amazon

OneOdio Studio makes some of the best headphones for music for those who are on a budget and can’t spend too much money on expensive headphones. For about £30, you’ll be getting superior sound quality. The large speakers feature neodymium magnets and ensure powerful bass, clear vocals, and crisp high notes that make up for a perfect hi-fi sound.

OneOdio Studio headphones also feature high-quality padded ear cushions that are specifically designed for maximum comfort and noise isolation. The headband is adjustable and stretchable, allowing everyone to adjust the headphones to a perfect angle.

The headphones also feature a long DJ-style 9.8-foot cord that easily reaches from the TV or stereo to your favorite chair. A standard-sized 6.3mm plug cable and a 3.5mm plug cable(with mic and one function button) are included. They both are completely detachable, you can plug in the mixer you want to use.

What we like:

• Quality headphones that come with an affordable price tag;
• The high-quality padded ear cushions ensure maximum comfort and noise isolation;
• The headphones are compatible with almost every music device;
• A long cord, two plug cables, and a mic and function button are included.

What we don’t like:

• Some users complained that the quality of the sound is not as good as advertised.

Buy on Amazon

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The Best Headphones for Music: Buyer’s Guide

If you are wondering what the most important qualities you should look for in a set of headphones for music are, you should definitely check out this buyer’s guide.

Audio technology has improved significantly in the past few years, and specialized headphones for music are no longer exclusive to musicians and producers. They’ve become available to the broader public, but there is an overwhelming amount of choice on the market, and people don’t know which ones are the best for them.

One of the first things you should look out for when choosing the best headphones is audio quality and comfort. This is the tricky part to navigate through because, in order to provide a cheaper and affordable choice, manufacturers often have to sacrifice one or both of these attributes.

After that, you should choose between the wired or wireless model, depending on your daily activities. The next thing you should look out for is if the headphones are over-ear, on-ear, or in-ear headphones, what material are they made from, and so on.

If you keep reading, you will find out why each of these qualities can benefit your satisfaction.

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Best Headphones for Music: Benefits

If you wonder whether you should invest your money in a good pair of headphones for music or not, here are a few reasons that should clear all the doubts.

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Superior sound quality

The best headphones for music offer superior and crystal-clear sound over traditional external speakers, which is crucial if you want to enjoy your favorite music. But nobody is saying that speakers are bad, just that when the accurate highs and deep, rich bass are delivered straight to your ears, it sounds better and makes for a more enjoyable listening experience.

True audiophiles argue that it’s all about “stereo imaging” of sound. Stereo imaging creates an illusion that a sound has a three-dimensional depth. This is meant to trick your brain into perceiving that the sounds you listen to come from different points in space, which implies spatial depth and brings you the next level of immersion (i.e., you feel like you are at a concert).

Blocking of external noises

Hearing music or sounds from every other source than the song you listen to can break the immersion and ruin your overall experience. Best headphones for music offer a noise-canceling feature that counters or blocks the majority of outside noise. Whether they use digital (counter-signal) or physical (sound-isolating earcups) noise-canceling technology, they will immensely improve your immersion and let you listen to your favorite songs in peace.

You should also be aware of your real-life surroundings. Without headphones, it’s often impossible for you to enjoy a song or two because the place you are at requires peace. With the best headphones for music, you will be able to listen and hum to your favorite tunes whenever you want and wherever you want.

Audio Quality

Even though the audio quality is somewhat subjective, it is imperative when it comes to picking out the best headphones for music.

When it comes to audio quality, the general rule of thumb for low-end over-ear headphones is “bigger is better.” Larger drivers and diaphragms often have better performance and response than their smaller counterparts because they have bigger vibrating cones, and they provide a larger magnetic field to disturb. Hence, the larger the headphone, the better audio quality.

For high-end headphones, size is less relevant, and their audio quality actually depends on how well they are engineered. That’s why you won’t find anything particularly impressive until you delve deeper into the above-the-hundred-dollar market.

With that being said, some of the “budget” models, with the less-than-hundred price tag that we highlighted in our review, are close behind or even on par with few brands that are retailing for almost the double price.

Wired or Wireless

The next thing you should look out for is if the headphones are wired or wireless because headphones’ type of connection will primarily affect your day-to-day activities. Both connections do have other advantages and disadvantages, and here are some of them.

Wired headphones use cables to connect them to a compatible audio source, usually via a 3.5mm jack. Because they are physically attached to the audio source, they are also connected to the power source. This means that they do not need to be charged; thus, you don’t have to worry about batteries running out.

The big plus for wired headphones is that they are often cheaper than wireless ones, but they pack the same punch. Every primary feature that wireless headphones have, wired headphones have it too. Also, they are comfortable and convenient to use because of their plug-and-play compatibility. Also, a wired connection is more stable and reliable in a data transfer than a wireless option.

One of the downsides of wired headphones is that they are infinitely more prone to tangling than wireless headphones. Tangled cable is often hindering your ability to use them properly, and there is a high chance of damaging the cable/headphones. Wire also means that you have restricted reach.

Wireless headphones do not require the use of cables or wires. Instead, they are establishing a connection via Bluetooth. Their most significant advantage over wired headphones is that they have little to no restrictions, which means they can be used during any activity. The trade-off usually comes in the form of battery life, so you’ll have to remember to charge your wireless headphones every once in a while.

If you are leaning towards wireless headphones, then you should pay attention to the type of Bluetooth connection they have. Classic Bluetooth connection allows you to connect to one device in a very short range. The pricier single-range upgrade enables a more extended range, and the dual-range upgrade enables you to connect to more than one device.

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Comfort, Build Quality, and Aesthetics

After you have settled on a wired or wireless type of headphones, you need to look at the comfort level each headphone provides. But how to know which features make headphones for music more or less comfortable?

First, you have to choose between an over-ear, on-ear, and in-ear option. As the name suggests, over-ear headphones create a little dome over your ear, significantly contributing to comfort. On-ear and in-ear headphones deliver sound straight to your ear canal, which can offer a better sound.

Secondly, headband and ear cups should not be too tight or too loose; they must offer a comfortable fit. If the headband and earcups are too tight, they might restrict blood flow, leading to headaches and fatigue. Both the headband and earcups should be made of comfortable and breathable materials. A big plus is if they are filled with memory foam, which allows them to conform to your head’s shape for added comfort.

The weight also plays a massive part in comfort. You want to choose a lightweight pair of headphones, not an enormous pair that will weigh your head down. Bulkier headphones are not suitable for extensive use because they are more likely to cause headaches and fatigue.

Noise Cancellation

The noise-cancellation feature is what makes a difference between mediocre and fantastic listening experience—hearing music or sounds from every other source than your song can break the immersion and ruin your immersion.

When you choose the best headphones for music, you should look for headphones with good noise-cancellation ability. There are two different ways in which headphones block external audio sources, active and passive noise cancellation.

Passive noise cancellation is a term used to describe headphones that block sound from external sources with its physical design (e.g., tight fit around head and ears). Active noise cancellation is a term that describes headphones that detect background noises and then digitally counter the signal for a crystal-clear and high-quality audio experience.