Best headphones June 2026
Looking for the best headphones? This guide helps you compare the top models on the market, from in-ear buds to over-ear cans. We break down the key features, pros, and cons of each to help you find the perfect pair for your needs and budget.
Last updated: 22 June 2026
Headphones: Top 5
1
Apple AirPods Pro 3 2025
from £168.8816 stores
from £168.88
16 stores
2
Apple AirPods 4 Active Noise Cancellation Wireless In-ear
from £122.8814 stores
from £122.88
14 stores
3
Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro
from £154.9915 stores
from £154.99
15 stores
4
Sony WH-1000XM6
from £261.9915 stores
from £261.99
15 stores
5
Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Over-ear
from £192.337 stores
from £192.33
7 stores
The latest AirPods Pro 3 offer top-tier active noise cancellation and clear, detailed audio with spatial sound. New features like a built-in heart rate monitor make them great for workouts, and the IP57 rating provides solid protection against dust and water.
Pros
Excellent noise cancellation
Clear, detailed sound with punchy bass
Built-in heart rate monitor for workouts
IP57 dust and water resistance
Cons
Plasticky feel on the charging case
Fit can be poor for some ears
Sound can be too sharp and bass-heavy
The 4th generation AirPods add Active Noise Cancellation to the classic open-ear design. They are a comfortable choice for those who dislike silicone tips but still want to reduce background noise. Seamless integration with other Apple devices remains a key selling point.
Pros
Comfortable open design without rubber tips
Effective ANC for an open-ear design
Seamless Apple ecosystem integration
Cons
Shorter battery life than Pro models (5h)
New shape may not fit all ears
Charging case scratches easily
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro deliver excellent sound quality, effective noise cancellation, and impressive battery life. They are a strong competitor, especially for users within the Samsung ecosystem, and offer a high IP57 rating for durability.
Pros
Excellent sound quality and ANC
Long battery life (up to 26h with ANC)
IP57 dust and water resistance
Cons
Best features reserved for Samsung phones
Clunky multi-point device switching
Battery can drain when not in use
The Sony WH-1000XM6 continue the series' legacy with outstanding active noise cancellation and rich, detailed sound. They boast an impressive battery life and support for connecting to two devices at once, making them ideal for travel and daily commutes.
Pros
Exceptional noise cancellation
Excellent sound with crisp detail and punchy bass
Long battery life (up to 30h with ANC)
Supports multi-point connection
Cons
Fit can be too tight for some users
Earpads can feel plasticky and get warm
Microphone performance is inconsistent
Despite being an older model, the Sony WH-1000XM4 remains a top choice for its fantastic noise cancellation and exceptional comfort. They deliver great sound and a foldable design, making them a fantastic value for travelers and commuters.
Pros
Excellent noise cancellation
Very comfortable for long-term wear
Great sound quality for the price
Foldable design for portability
Cons
ANC can produce an audible hiss
Microphone isn't great for calls
Not water resistant
Compare specifications
| Suitable for | Training | Training | Gaming, Training | Training | Training |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | In-ear headphones | In-ear headphones | In-ear headphones | Over-ear headphones | In-ear headphones, Over-ear headphones |
| Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Colour | White, Blue | White | Black, White, Pink | Black, White, Silver, Grey, Blue, Pink | Black, White, Silver, Blue, Beige |
| Features | Built-in heart rate monitor, Built-in wireless charging, Buttons/controls adapted for iPhone, Charging via USB, Supports fast charging, Compatible with voice assistant, QI Charging, True Wireless, Ambient sound mode, Microphone ANC, Spatial sound, Adaptive EQ | Built-in wireless charging, Supports fast charging, Compatible with voice assistant, True Wireless, Ambient sound mode, Spatial sound, Adaptive EQ | Built-in wireless charging, Charging via USB, Compatible with voice assistant, True Wireless, Adaptive EQ | Detachable cable, Folding, Multi Point, Equalizer, Supports fast charging, Ambient sound mode, Spatial sound | Detachable cable, Folding, Supports NFC, Charging via USB, Ambient sound mode, Microphone ANC |
How we built the list
The ranking is updated monthly and is based on data we collect from our own platform. Products that rank highly are popular with our users while also maintaining high quality according to editorial expert reviews. Specifically, we take into account how many users follow a product through price alerts or lists, how it is rated by experts and users, as well as how much traffic it generates to stores and how well it is represented in stores. No products are paid placements — the ranking is governed solely by data.
