In testing a range of headphones, Mashable editors and writers, including experienced tech reporters and senior editors, conducted comprehensive hands-on assessments. The selection criteria focused on several key aspects:
Comfort: Acknowledging the importance of comfort, the team excluded any headphones that did not remain comfortable during prolonged use, as discomfort could detract from the experience of active noise cancellation.
Battery Life: The evaluation prioritized headphones with long battery life and quick charging capabilities, ensuring functionality during travel without frequent charging interruptions.
Active Noise Cancellation Quality: While there are cost-effective options for active noise cancellation (ANC), not all deliver the same quality. The team favored headphones that either offered multiple ANC levels or a strong standalone ANC performance.
Portability: Given the bulkiness of over-the-ear headphones, the team prioritized models that could fold up or came with compact carrying cases to enhance portability.
- Durability: Recognizing the potential for wear and tear during travel, the evaluation included headphones that were more durable and likely to withstand frequent handling.
Updates on recent testing highlighted several changes. In February 2025, the EarFun Air Pro 4 earbuds were named the top budget pick, superseding the Anker Soundcore P3i earbuds. The Sennheiser Momentum 4 headphones were still under review. In September 2024, the lineup remained unchanged, notably excluding the Dyson OnTrac headphones due to their bulkiness, high cost, and the improbability of being out of charging range for over 55 hours.
As of August 2024, the Bose 700 headphones were removed from the list due to discontinuation, with no current replacement identified that matched their adjustable ANC features. In June 2024, the Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones were also phased out following their discontinuation and removal from virtual store shelves. Upcoming tests would include the newer Bose QuietComfort headphones.
In May 2024, the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e headphones were evaluated. Despite their high-end design and sound quality, their noise cancellation and Bluetooth connectivity did not meet expectations, leading to recommendations for the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones instead. In April 2024, the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 headphones were incorporated into the tested lineup. New additions also featured the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones in November 2023, followed by the Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds in February 2024. The JBL Tour One M2 headphones were tested but did not make the recommended list, as their noise cancellation quality did not justify the $300 price tag compared to alternatives like Bose.