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Product category

Best Audio

Headphones, speakers, soundbars, and related audio equipment.

  1. Ranked number 1

    Google

    around $189 at the time of writing

    Google Pixel Buds Pro 2

    Google's flagship earbuds built around the custom Tensor A1 chip: twice the noise cancellation of the original Pixel Buds Pro, hands-free Gemini, and a smaller, more secure fit. The definitive audio companion for the Android ecosystem.

    • Audio chip:Google Tensor A1 (custom audio silicon)
    • Noise cancellation:Active Noise Cancellation, rated ~2x stronger than the original Pixel Buds Pro
    • Battery (earbuds):Up to 8 hours with ANC on
    • Battery (with case):Up to 30 hours total
    • Custom Tensor A1 chip powers markedly stronger ANC than the original Pixel Buds Pro
    • Compact, lightweight redesign with a secure, comfortable fit and IP54 resistance
    • Best-in-class hands-free Gemini assistant integration for Android users
    • Richest features are optimized for Pixel/Android and less complete on iOS
    • No higher-bitrate/hi-res codec support for audiophile listeners
    See price on amazon (opens in a new tab)See full details
  2. Ranked number 2

    Sony

    around $200

    Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones

    Sony's flagship over-ear ANC headphones pair dual-processor, 8-mic noise cancellation with LDAC hi-res audio and 30-hour battery — a benchmark commuter set now selling well below its original $399.99 MSRP.

    • Driver:30 mm dynamic driver (one per ear cup)
    • Noise cancellation:Active, AI-powered — dual processors, 8 microphones
    • Battery life (ANC on):Up to 30 hours
    • Battery life (ANC off):Up to 40 hours
    • Class-leading active noise cancellation — dual processors and 8 mics that crush low-frequency commute rumble
    • Excellent microphone array (4 beamforming mics) for clear hands-free calls
    • LDAC hi-res wireless plus AAC/SBC and a wired 3.5 mm fallback
    • No IP water- or sweat-resistance rating — not suited to workouts
    • Non-folding hinge means a larger carry case than the XM4
    See price on amazon (opens in a new tab)See full details