So many different varieties of headphones out there these days, from wireless to noise canceling to workout-oriented to audiophile and on and on. The good thing is you can find a great-sounding pair for whatever your needs are. These are four of the best rated headphones CNET has reviewed in the past year or so.
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Sony WH-1000XM2
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/sony-wh-1000xm2/review/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.5 stars out of 5 (Outstanding)
The good: The Sony WH-1000XM2 is an excellent-sounding, comfortable wireless headphone with effective noise-canceling that measures up to Bose’s for muffling ambient noise. Its battery life has been improved and it has some nifty extra features geared toward frequent travelers.
The bad: It should perform a little better as a headset. Battery isn’t replaceable.
The cost: $279.99 (refurbished) to $299.99
The bottom line: Sony’s WH-1000XM2 may not be quite as comfortable as Bose’s QuietComfort 35 II, but in some respects it’s a superior headphone.
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Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/bose-quietcomfort-35-ii/review/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.5 stars out of 5 (Outstanding)
The good: The Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphone adds a dedicated button for Google Assistant, but it can be programmed for other functions, too. Retains its predecessor’s top-of-the-line active-noise canceling, excellent wireless Bluetooth sound, and extra-comfortable design. Works in wired mode with included cord if battery dies.
The bad: Battery isn’t replaceable; same apparent design and performance as previous model.
The cost: $329.00 to $349.99
The bottom line: Existing QC35 owners don’t need to upgrade, but the addition of a dedicated Google Assistant button gives the already excellent wireless noise-cancelling headphone an extra bit of personality.
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Bose SoundSport Wireless
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/bose-soundsport-wireless/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.5 stars out of 5 (Outstanding)
The good: The SoundSoundSport Wireless is a very comfortable in-ear wireless Bluetooth sports headphone that’s sweat-resistant and sounds great. The earphones fit securely in your ears thanks to winged tips. The headphone works decently as a headset for making cell-phone calls and has an auto-off feature to preserve battery life.
The bad: The ear pieces protrude noticeably from your ears (they’re a little bulky but don’t feel heavy); battery life tops out at 6 hours.
The cost: $149.00 to $149.99
The bottom line: The Bose SoundSport Wireless is the most comfortable, best overall in-ear Bluetooth sports headphone you can buy right now.
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V-Moda Crossfade 2 Wireless
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/v-moda-crossfade-2-wireless/review/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.0 stars out of 5 (Excellent)
The good: The sturdily built, well-designed V-Moda Crossfade 2 Wireless delivers better battery life and improved sound over its predecessor, with more sculpted bass and better detail. The new larger earpads provide a more comfortable fit. And the headphone folds up to fit a well-designed protective case that now includes air vents.
The bad: It’s a tad heavy in weight — and price.
The cost: $329.00 to $329.99
The bottom line: New drivers, new cushions, more frequency response in wired mode and better battery life make V-Moda’s next-gen Bluetooth headphone a winner.
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The following CNET staff contributed to this story: Executive Editor David Carnoy and Senior Editor Laura K. Cucullu. For more reviews of personal technology products, please visit www.cnet.com.
