These headphones among the best
Sony WH-1000XM2
Cnet rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
The good: The Sony 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: $280 (refurbished) to $300 The bottom line: It may not be quite as comfortable as Bose’s QuietComfort 35 II, but in some respects it’s a superior headphone.
Bose Quiet Comfort 35 II
Cnet rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
The good: The Bose adds a dedicated button for Google Assistant, but it can be programmed for other functions, too. Retains its predecessor’s top-ofthe-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 to $350 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-canceling headphone an extra bit of personality.
Bose Sound Sport Wireless
Cnet rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
The good: The SoundSport 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 calls and has an auto-off feature to preserve battery life. The bad: The earpieces protrude noticeably (they’re a little bulky but don’t feel heavy); battery life tops out at 6 hours. The cost: $150 The bottom line: The Bose is the most comfortable, best overall in-ear Bluetooth sports headphone you can buy.
V-Moda Crossfade 2 Wireless
Cnet rating: 4.0 stars out of 5
The good: The sturdily built, welldesigned Crossfade 2 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: $330 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.