Headphone Test Comparison – the 5 Best Models

Whether for music, podcasts, gaming or sports – good headphones provide the best sound and high wearing comfort. Sound quality, battery life, wearing comfort and additional functions are crucial. In our large test comparison 2025, we present five top models. The rating was based on sound, comfort, features, battery and price-performance ratio.
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14. September 2025
14. September 2025
#1
1. Test Winner: Sony WH-1000XM5

1. Test Winner: Sony WH-1000XM5

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Pros

  • Industry-leading noise cancellation (ANC)
  • Outstanding sound with rich bass and clear highs
  • Very light comfortable fit – even for long wearing times
  • Long battery life of up to 30 hours
  • Multipoint connection – two devices simultaneously
  • Fast charging – 3 minutes for 3 hours of playback
  • High-quality materials elegant design

Cons

  • No water- or sweat-resistant housing
  • No AptX support (only LDAC)

TEST WINNER

4.9 / 5

VERY GOOD

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How good is the noise cancellation?

Sony sets the standard here: Both deep humming noises and high frequencies are effectively filtered – ideal for airplane, train or office.

How comfortable are the headphones for long wearing?

Thanks to soft ear pads and low weight, you hardly feel them, even during long listening sessions or home office days.

Can the headphones also be used for phone calls?

Yes, four microphones and AI-optimized voice recording ensure clear phone calls and online meetings.

How fast does the battery charge?

Just 3 minutes of quick charging is enough for around 3 hours of music – fully charged, it lasts up to 30 hours.

Are they compatible with all smartphones?

Yes, both Android and iPhone are fully compatible. The best audio quality is achieved with LDAC-enabled devices.

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Sony WH-1000XM5

Best Noise Cancelling and Sound for Every Occasion

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#2
Bose SoundLink Flex

Bose SoundLink Flex

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Pros

  • Outstanding comfort – also pleasant for glasses wearers
  • Excellent Noise Cancelling Quality
  • Deep bass and crystal-clear highs
  • Up to 24 hours of battery life
  • Bose Music App for individual sound profiles
  • Multipoint Voice control via Alexa, Google Assistant
  • High-quality workmanship with metal elements

Cons

  • No AptX HD
  • Only moderately water-resistant

4.7 / 5

GOOD

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#3
Apple AirPods Max

Apple AirPods Max

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Pros

  • High-quality workmanship in aluminum and fabric
  • Seamless connection in the Apple ecosystem
  • Excellent Active Noise Cancelling
  • Transparency mode 3D audio
  • Long battery life up to 20 hours

Cons

  • Elegant design in five colors
  • Very high price
  • No AptX, only AAC – less optimal for Android

4.4 / 5

GOOD

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#4
Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless

Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless

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Pros

  • Balanced HiFi sound with powerful bass
  • Very long battery life – up to 60 hours
  • Effective Noise Cancelling
  • Light comfortable to wear
  • Multipoint App sound adjustment

Cons

  • No IP certification
  • Slightly less bass pressure than Sony/Bose
  • No AptX Adaptive

4.2 / 5

GOOD

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#5
JBL Tune 770NC

JBL Tune 770NC

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Pros

  • Solid ANC performance at a reasonable price
  • Pleasant sound with emphasized bass
  • Up to 70 hours of battery life (without ANC)
  • Light foldable for travel
  • Quick charge function

Cons

  • Plastic-heavy workmanship
  • Weaknesses in detail richness
  • No Multipoint

4.1 / 5

GOOD

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Important Criteria when Buying Headphones

For perfect music enjoyment, you should pay attention to sound quality, wearing comfort, battery life and the type of noise cancellation. Frequent flyers or commuters in particular benefit from strong ANC. Gamers and frequent callers value microphone quality.

Why Sony WH-1000XM5 is our Test Winner

The Sony WH-1000XM5 offer the best overall package of sound, comfort and noise cancellation. With the long battery life, the lightweight design and the practical functions such as multipoint, they are ideal for both music lovers and frequent travelers.

Buying Advice: which Headphones are Right for You?

For frequent travelers and commuters, models with strong ANC like Sony or Bose are perfect. If you value Apple integration, go for the AirPods Max. Sennheiser is suitable for long battery life without compromise. Price-conscious users will find a good solution at JBL.

Important questions:

  • How important is noise cancellation to you?
  • Do you use Android or iPhone?
  • Should the headphones be suitable for sports?
  • How long do you wear them daily?
  • Does design play a major role?

Available at Amazon, MediaMarkt, Saturn or directly from the manufacturers.

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Sony WH-1000XM5

Best Noise Cancelling and Sound for Every Occasion

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