In the past few years, Bluetooth headphones have gone from a preference to almost a necessity. In a world where countless jobs require frequent flying or where individuals engage in daily exercise, you need a pair of headphones that you can rely on. Considering this context, we are facing an ongoing market expansion with more models than ever. So how do you know you’re making a smart investment?
Backed by thorough research and meticulous comparison, we have rounded up the best Bluetooth headphones that money can buy in 2017. After a strenuous elimination process, we have narrowed our final selection down to the top 10 best-of-the-best buys. Browse the specs and reviews according to your requirements and get your hands on the headphones of your dreams!
Best Bluetooth Headphones 2018
| Product Name | Dimensions (inches) | Weight (ounces) | Water Resistance | Active Noise Canceling | Check Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cowin E-7 | 3.62 x 6.54 x 7.13 | 13.6 | No | Yes | |
| Plantronics BackBeat PRO | 9.1 x 4.6 x 9.1 | 11.8 | No | Yes | |
| BÖHM B-66 | 7.8 x 7.1 x 1.8 | 30.4 | No | Yes | |
| Beats Studio Wireless | 9.6 x 7.3 x 4.5 | 9.1 | No | Yes | |
| Jaybird X3 | 21.5 x 0.5 x 0.9 | 0.5 | Yes | No | |
| Bose SoundSport | 1.1 x 1 x 1.1 | 0.8 | Yes | No | |
| Phaiser BHS-730 | 1.8 x 5.1 x 2.4 | 0.3 | Yes | No | |
| Sony MDR1000X/B | 6.3 x 4.5 x 9.5 | 9.8 | No | Yes | |
| SENSO ActivBuds S-250 | 4.9 x 1.3 x 4.7 | 0.2 | Yes | No | |
| Bose QuietComfort 35 | 3.1 x 6.7 x 7.1 | 8.3 | No | Yes |
10. Cowin E-7 – Best Buy Bluetooth Headphones
These sleek beauties pack serious features for their ridiculously low price, from 30 hours of playtime when used via Bluetooth, from Active Noise Canceling technology to enjoy a complete quality music experience. Although they may not be the most advanced Bluetooth headphones on our list, you can read why they’re crowned best buy below.
Main Features
- Active Noise Canceling
- 90 earmuff swivel design
- Mic and controls for adjusting volume, phone calls and selecting tracks
- 30 hours of Bluetooth play time
- “True-to-life” sound, as the manufacturer advertises and customers confirm
Design & Usability
Comfort is an essential aspect for any pair of headphones, especially if you’re a music fanatic like we are. You can listen to music with them hours and hours on end without any discomfort, owing to the adjustable, 90-degree swivel earmuffs. In addition, they’re quite soft and pretty lightweight for over-ear headphones, even though there are models that weigh less.
As customers confirm, they’re a wonderful choice for those who want to drown out background noise at the office, as a result of the Active Noise Canceling technology. In addition, frequent fliers use them with pleasure when traveling. The only situation that they don’t seem appropriate for is exercising, as they lack any type of water resistant features.
Quality & Performance
For such a small price, the E-7s delivers amazing quality. Consumer reports uphold the fact that the sound is satisfactory, despite the fact that the bass could use improvements. However, you should be aware of the price tag, especially regarding most competitive models in the ~$300 category. To support their status as an outstanding value, the E-7s have a 4.0-star customer average rating.
One of the top perks of these accessible gems is the battery life. They boast roughly 30 hours of continuous playing time when in Bluetooth mode, which is more than one could hope for at this rate. The noise cancellation stays true to the ads, as they successfully block external sounds, letting you appreciate the music you’re listening to.
- Best value Bluetooth headphones
- Ideal for frequent travelers
- Highly comfortable, thanks to their adjustable features
- Crystal clear sound
- #1 Amazon best-sellers in two categories, including the main Headphones one
- Even though they may be used for light exercise, there is no guarantee that they are sweat proof or water resistant
- Not as many features as more advanced headphones, but you get what you pay for and more
- Some users claim that the plastic used in the design makes fingerprints visible, but we’d say that this is just a minor inconvenience
9. Plantronics BackBeat PRO – Best Over Ear Bluetooth Headphones
The majority of Bluetooth headphones are classified into 2 broad categories: in-ear and over-ear. We’ll talk plenty about in-ear options below, but for the moment we’ll focus on one of the best values on the market when it comes to over-ear Bluetooth headphones – the BackBeat PROs by Plantronics.
Main Features
- Class 1 Bluetooth with 330-foot range
- Option for syncing to multiple devices
- Active Noise Cancelation
- Head sensor for automatic pausing when headphones are off
- 24-hour battery life
Design & Usability
We regret to start the comprehensive description of the BackBeat PROs with a con, but it’s our duty to point out the downsides of products as much as the upsides. The design isn’t exactly the strongest point of the Plantronics, with a bulky structure that may not come across as appealing for all. Moreover, there are reports of low-quality materials resulting in the ear cups coming apart.
Nevertheless, we are never the ones to jump to conclusions and focus on qualities like usability and performance above all. In this regard, these Plantronics have a clean 5-stars from these viewpoints. The headphones have user-friendly controls on the ear muffs and are easy-to-maneuver by all. One of the top advantages is that you can sync more than one device for continuous ease of use.
Quality & Performance
From a design point of view, we’re sad to admit that the materials are lacking quality. However, the sound quality is stellar, a surprising benefit for average-priced Bluetooth headphones. You can enjoy a premium listening experience regardless of genre, thanks to the crystal clear quality. The microphone is also top notch for those who plan on using the headphones for making phone calls.
These features also build up to wonderful performance on behalf of the BackBeats. With a lengthened Bluetooth range of 300 feet, you can be away from your device and still listen happily. Even more so, the battery life is just what you need if you listen to music almost every waking moment. You will have to recharge only about 24 hours of use.
- Versatile syncing technology
- Long battery life and wireless range
- Exceptional bass sound quality for music lovers
- Convenient ear cup controls
- Practical choice for those who want to use the mic for calls
- We have to admit that these Plantronics aren’t the most attractive headphones out there, with quite a bulky build
- Some customers complained about the headphones lacking 100% comfort
- Materials may be of poor quality
8. BÖHM B-66 – Best Bluetooth Headphones with Mic
Additionally, your battery is fully recharged in just 3 hours, and you can use them for 16 hours of music playtime. Plus, the B-66s are a budget-friendly choice on platforms such as Amazon. This means that you will be taking advantage of advanced features like Active Noise Cancellation and a 20Hz-20KHz frequency range all for a terrific price.
Main Features
- Premium Bluetooth 4.0 technology
- 18-hour battery life with quick, 3-hour recharge
- 40mm stereo driver units
- Active Noise Cancelation technology
- Comes with a good-looking protective case
Design & Usability
As far as looks are in discussion, the B-66s have a super smooth finish and clean design. For those who value aesthetics, you should know that you can get them either in black and silver or gold and tan, depending on your tastes. Without a doubt, there a stylish product ideal for individuals who also rock headphones as an accessory.
Furthermore, the B-66s are easy-to-use, from pairing your device to using the actual headphones. You get a card with instructions in the case, with step-by-step directions for setting everything up. Plus, you can use these Bluetooth headphones for up to about 40 feet away, without deteriorating the quality of sound.
Quality & Performance
The technology incorporated in the B-66s is satisfying on the whole. However, we pinpointed several complaints regarding the materials used in their design. Some users ended up with broken headphones shortly after buying them. Still, the sound quality is wonderful, as well as the wireless technology, thanks to the 4.0 Bluetooth.
When placing and receiving phone calls, you won’t have any issues. If you’re listening to music when a call comes in, the track will stop on its own and then start back up when you have completed the call. This is a significant advantage for those who frequently use their devices for work or conversations.
- Optimum choice for phone calls via Bluetooth
- Sleek design available in two colorways: tan and gold or black and silver
- Extended battery life for calls and music
- Great compatibility with Android and Apple devices
- Highly affordable Bluetooth headphones
- Although the B-66s do come with noise canceling technology, customers report that the quality is weak
- Low quality materials may result in breaking sooner than expected, according to some users
- The manufacturers warn customers to be careful when adjusting the headphones, due to reports of damage.
7. Beats Studio Wireless – Best Design Bluetooth Headphones
Even though they do come at a price – even on Amazon –, the Beats Studio Wireless are high-end headphones that won’t disappoint. They hardly need an introduction, but for those who aren’t familiar with these beauties, they genuinely have everything you could wish for in a pair of Bluetooth headphones.
Main Features
- Advanced DSP software for the ultimate music experience
- 30-foot Bluetooth range
- Dual Adaptive Noise Canceling Technology
- Built-in mic on the headset’s side
- Accessories: hard shell protective case, 3.5mm audio cable, 3.55mm RemoteTalk Audio Cable, 2.0 USB Cable
Design & Usability
Let’s face it: you can’t beat the Beats when design is concerned. They arguably feature the sharpest design out of all Bluetooth headphones. Not only do they look and feel top quality, but they also come in variations suitable for all tastes. Seriously, when you have 3 choices just for black headphones, you know you’re dealing with an industry leader.
No matter how hi-tech the Studio Wireless’ are, they remain ultra user-friendly. In addition to having clear shuttle controls on the left ear cup, the Beats also have a microphone built directly into the headset. As opposed to most competing models, this makes the phone call experience flawless, from quality to practicality.
Quality & Performance
As far as quality is concerned, there are two main points that need to be regarded: build and technology. We’ll start with the slightly ‘bad’ news, in relation to product design. Even though the Beats look like a million dollars, so to speak, numerous users report that they still have that plastic feel to them. Be that as it may, the sound quality is state-of-the-art, hands down.
What impressed us the most about the new and improved Beats is the overall music experience. Ultimately, the main reason you want to invest in premium Bluetooth headphones is to listen to tunes at full quality, right? Well, you will be able to appreciate every instrument on a track, thanks to the studio grade conditions.
- Flawless sound quality, for all categories of instruments
- Excellent microphone quality as well
- Significant upgrades from the previous model, with crisper sound and less muffled bass
- Immaculate design
- A myriad of colorways to choose from: black, blue, matte black, red, titanium, white, gold, gloss black, metallic sky or gloss white
- A great deal of users claim that the price tag is simply way too high for a set of headphones
- Some strict customers were let down by the low adaptive noise canceling quality
- Customer service is reported to be dissatisfactory, as well as the huge taxes for sending back faulty products
6. Jaybird X3 – Best In Ear Bluetooth Headphones
We have spoken all about on-ear and over-ear Bluetooth headphones, but what about those who prefer earbuds? If you’re not into the beefy build of the aforementioned categories of headphones, we wholeheartedly recommend the Jaybird X3 Bluetooth headset, compatible with both Apple and Android devices. If you look in the right places, you can get them for as little as $100.
Main Features
- Custom sound profiles
- Sweat proof design
- User-oriented build so the buds fit flawlessly in your ears
- 8-hour playtime with a 15-minute charge for 1 hour of use
- Battery level that alerts you with every 20% drop
Design & Usability
It’s clear to see that the X3s were designed with the customer in mind. The manufacturers made every effort to make them as comfortable as possible, splurging on accessories so you find your perfect bud. When you receive your box, you also get 3 sets each of silicone tips, foam tips, and ear wings). They have an around-the-neck structure that won’t be an issue while exercising.
Speaking of exercise, this is a significant usability advantage that the X3s feature. Even if you sweat profusely when working out or playing sports, your headphones will remain safe. But an aspect that truly skyrockets your user experience is the custom sound profile. You can adjust your sound preferences and save them with their nicely designed app.
Quality & Performance
The quality of the actual buds is irreproachable; they feel excellent and are well-built for a pair of relatively low-priced Bluetooth headphones. They may not feature the sound quality that audiophiles expect, but most ‘regular’ users are completely satisfied with the way their music sounds. This is especially owing to the custom option we described earlier.
Unfortunately, connectivity may be a problem, according to multiple customers. It is reported that your wireless signal may drop occasionally, particularly when using the headset outside. Some even stated that they had pausing issues, like when CDs would skip when running. The cases are pretty isolated, though.
- Secure build & sweat proof finish, making them ideal for exercising
- Sound profiles that can be fully personalized and saved for later use
- Excellent value – wonderful quality for a low price
- Broad range of buds are included so you find the perfect fit
- Super small frame for a comfortable experience
- A few customers pinpointed connectivity issues, particularly when used outdoors
- Reports of sound-skipping, similar to what would happen in the past with CDs and Walkmans
- Customer service lacking in proper communication
5. Bose SoundSport – Best Bluetooth Sport Headphones
Bose is one of the most well-respected companies in the industry, with infallible sound quality engineered in all of their products. However, like one of their top competitors (Beats), they come with a hefty price tag for the average user. You can check them out on Amazon for a good deal, but do note that they don’t have discounts. When they do, they’re usually pretty insignificant.
Main Features
- Industry-leading sound quality
- Stay Hear+ tips for headphone stability
- Water resistant for extensive exercise
- Multi-functional app that even allows you to read pulse
- 50-foot BT range without any issues
Design & Usability
When rating the overall design of the SoundSports, there are two distinct angles that need to be considered: build and aesthetics. If you’re a visual connoisseur, these may not be the Bluetooth headphones for you. They were designed to be top-quality, but not look the part. Be that as it may, they’re one of the most comfortable and stable in-ear headphones available for the sport-savvy.
The fact that the manufacturing company focused on usability more than the visual aspect of the SoundSports make them a fabulous choice for practical consumers. We can’t describe how essential it is that they won’t come out of your ears, even during hardcore exercises. On this note, they are water resistant, so you can stay stress-free no matter how much you sweat.
Quality & Performance
There are few headphones available for commercial purchase that can beat the sound quality of Bose products. This company is continually applauded for investing in crisp sound for the optimum listening experience. What does seem to be lacking is noise isolation, but this con can actually be a pro for outdoor runners that need to be aware of their environment while exercising.
You won’t have to worry about the performance of the SoundSports from any point of view. In the off-chance that you’ll receive a faulty product due to manufacturing defects, you will enjoy warm customer service and impressive policies for warranty. This is a huge advantage in the electronics market, where most sellers do all that they can to prevent replacements or refunds.
- Extraordinary sound quality for in-ear Bluetooth headphones
- Reliable frame that prevents earbuds from falling out during intense exercise
- Reputed manufacturer, known for designing some of the best headphones on the market
- One of the top 10 best-selling products in the general Headphones category on Amazon
- Excellent warranty policies from Bose, so you don’t need to worry about defective units
- Noticeably large build for in-ears may be an inconvenience to some
- Lower battery life compared to other models in its class
- They are not appropriate for users who seek complete noise isolation
4. Phaiser BHS-730 – Best Bluetooth Headphones for Running
Despite the fact that their accessible price results in a fair share of ups and downs, they are undeniably a distinguished choice for running. They will withstand even the greatest amounts of sweat, all while remaining securely and cozily in your ears throughout your running session. Additionally, they have options for over-ear and under-ear wear to meet all preferences.
Main Features
- Bluetooth 4.1 technology
- Liquipel Nano-coating for trustworthy sweat resistance
- A2DP stereo transfer protocols for admirable sound quality
- Memory foam tips for comfort and noise reduction
- Simple and intuitive controls
Design & Usability
If you plan on using Bluetooth headphones for running, the design needs to be extremely comfortable with added stability. This is exactly the case for the BHS-730s, thanks to their snug fit and wearing options. A strong point is their 0.3-ounce weight, making them one of the lightest headphones on our list. They are small and subtle, in comparison to bulkier competitors.
Not only are they fully compatible with any device that supports Bluetooth, but the pairing also takes place immediately. This means that you will spend less time struggling to get your headphones connected and more on actually using them, especially while running. They also benefit from reliable Nano-coating to block out any and all sweat.
Quality & Performance
For Bluetooth headphones that won’t cost you even 50 bucks, the quality is almost ridiculously attractive. Thanks to the A2DP stereo transfer protocols, you will engage in a fine music experience throughout your workouts. Although they can’t compete with studio-inspired models, they boast lovely sound and a light-weight build with aviation grade aluminum-magnesium-alloy earbuds.
Owing to the Bluetooth 4.1 technology incorporated in the BHS-730s, connectivity exceeds all expectations from a low-budget product. Still, a noticeable issue seems to be the low battery life. Even though the manufacturers advertise as much as 5 hours, there are more than enough complaints that it drains out a lot faster than they claim.
- #1 Bluetooth headphones for runners
- Exemplary value for the small price
- Incredibly lightweight – just about 0.3 ounces
- Stable, comfy and well-designed
- Advertised lifetime sweat proof warranty
- Weak battery life
- Questionable customer service
- Lack of noise canceling technology may be inconvenient for other users aside from runners
3. Sony MDR1000X/B – Best Noise Canceling Bluetooth Headphones
We can’t stress enough how impressive their noise cancelation is – with full isolation from external sounds when in NC mode. If you are a picky audiophile who won’t settle for anything less than extraordinary quality, the MDR1000X/Bs are doubtlessly for you. Be wary of the price, though; they seriously exceed $300 even on websites like Amazon.
Main Features
- #1 noise canceling technology
- 4Hz-40,000Hz frequency response for top sound quality
- Up to 20 hours of playback time in Bluetooth mode
- Multiple modes, such as Ambient Sound Mode
- Multi-device pairing option
Design & Usability
The design of the MDR1000X/Bs is highly appealing, to say the least. Not only do they look super cool and hi-tech, but they’re also comfortable enough to sleep with and easily foldable for their protective case.
In spite of the fact that they can pair to multiple devices, switching from one to another won’t be that easy. Along with this aspect, you can’t listen while they’re charging. Nonetheless, they are a dream come true for techy users who love exploring extended features incorporated in their gadgets, like Ambient Sound Mode.
Quality & Performance
Top of the line is arguably an understatement to describe the quality of the MDR1000X/B headphones. Indeed, they are expensive, but you benefit from the quality that you pay for. The manufacturers live up to their reputation for industry-leading noise cancelation technology, effectively limiting any noise-related distractions when in NC mode.
As far as listening to music without any kind of distractions is concerned, they receive no less than 5 stars from our team. On the other hand, it breaks our hearts to inform you about the poor microphone quality reported by more than one user. If you aim to use the headphones more for wireless calls, we recommend you seek another product. But if music is your objective, go for them.
- Best Bluetooth headphones for blocking noise
- Stellar audio quality
- Quick Attention Mode for switching to calls and/or ambient sounds
- Extensive battery life
- Sound quality does not degrade throughout playtime, up to 20 hours
- Significantly expensive as compared to most of the Bluetooth headphones on our list
- Bluetooth pairing may be troublesome for some users
- Fine-tuning requires more time than other models that you simply press play with
2. SENSO ActivBuds S-250 – Best Around the Neck Bluetooth Headphones
You shouldn’t approach the ActivBuds expecting Beats or Bose quality with this price tag, but that doesn’t mean that you won’t be getting the best market value for Bluetooth headphones. These tiny wonders are equipped with everything you need for an amazing user experience, whether you’re focusing on exercising or just love listening to music during your commutes.
Main Features
- Bluetooth 4.1 CSR technology
- 30-foot Bluetooth range
- Sweat proof structure (IXP7 rating)
- 8-hour playback time
- Cable resistant to tangles
Design & Usability
For such an affordable pair of Bluetooth headphones, the ActivBuds sincerely look outstanding. While some users aren’t crazy about the over-ear hooks, they do a remarkable job of keeping the earbuds in place while working out. They are primarily black, with details available in three colors: blue, red and gray.
You can use them for as far as 30 feet away with Bluetooth devices. They’re also a cheap and practical choice for phone calls, but be aware that the mic isn’t top quality. You can’t expect state-of-the-art technology from headphones that cost less than $50, but they do live up to their strong reputation for being an industry best-buy. The 1-year warranty is also a nice perk.
Quality & Performance
We were surprised to find out how pleasing the sound is for these accessible pieces. They function with Bluetooth 4.1 technology, providing clear sound and a nifty accessory for exercising. The ActivBuds’ battery is also awesome for this price range, with up to 8 hours of playback and a swift, 1.5-hour recharge.
Like all budget headphones, they do have a few areas in which they are lacking quality. It’s easy to mistake them for having noise canceling technology, especially since they are advertised with ‘CVC 6.0 noise suppression’. Please be aware that terms like ‘suppression’ or ‘passive’ are not equivalent to canceling noise. The constant low battery alerts can also be a nuisance for some.
- Top value headphones for <$50
- Extremely lightweight – 0.2 ounces
- Suitable for workouts, owing to sweat resistance
- Numerous accessories: multiple-sized earbuds, pleasant case, car charger, two USB cables (one long and one short)
- Best-seller in 3 Amazon categories, with a #1 spot in Bluetooth Headsets
- No noise canceling technology whatsoever, but you can’t expect it for the price anyways
- Low battery alerts every few minutes may prove to be annoying
- Not suitable for bass music, with reports of sound distortions
1. Bose QuietComfort 35 – Best Bluetooth Headphones of 2018
We’re not going to lie; these Bluetooth beauties are pricey, to say the least. They fall under the Beats price range category, but not without solid arguments for doing so. Even the most fault-finding customers admit that they are the top headphones out of all models that rolled out last year and are going as strong as ever throughout 2018.
Main Features
- First-class noise cancelation
- Audiophile-pleasing sound
- 20-hour wireless & 40-hour wired battery life
- Multi-device pairing with easy switching
- Dual-microphone system
Design & Usability
When paying hundreds for headphones, you can expect the finish to be extremely clean. They look as expensive as they are, built with glass-filled nylon and metal-covered ear cups that withstand falls from several feet. The padding has memory foam and the headband is highly comfortable. They have built-in wireless controls in the ear cup, a step up from their previous model.
Rare are the cases when audiophiles can label a product as having the best noise cancelation technology in the world. Happily enough, this is the case for the QC 35s, without any doubt. Use them in any noisy situation and you won’t hear anything else than your playlist. You can also use them from up to 75 feet away, with the best wireless range we have come across to this point.
Quality & Performance
Everything sounds phenomenal with the QC 35s, whether you’re watching a movie, listening to music or making a phone call. The battery is premium quality, with reports of exceeding the 20-hour playtime by quite a few hours without drops in quality. If you use them corded, expect 40 hours of continuous use or more.
It’s a genuine challenge to point out flaws regarding the QC 35s. Sure, there are a few reports about weak connectivity, but there are too few cases for this to be an actual problem. The same goes for tech support complaints, which also serve as isolated issues. The bottom line is that the QC 35s are the highest quality headphones that demanding customers can enjoy this year.
- Spectacular sound quality
- Best ANC (Active Noise Cancelation) available on the market
- Respectable soundstage for individual instrument appreciation
- Huge Bluetooth range, with customer reports of up to 75 feet
- Unprecedented reputation, from reviews to sales
- Premium quality comes at a price; in this case, it surpasses $300
- Reports of poor tech support
- Isolated cases of weak Bluetooth connectivity
Final Verdict
In summary, we currently benefit from such a wide variety of Bluetooth headphones on the market that all requirements end up being covered. We’re happy to have showcased extremely diverse units, from affordable in-ears to first-rate, studio-grade headphones. It may be challenging to bring everything down to just one pair to invest in, but we are certain that these detailed reviews serve as a reliable starting point.
Before you add your final choice to your cart, ensure that you have accurately answered the following questions for your ideal buy:
- Quality – Am I interested in a cool design or a comfortable build? Do I want my music to sound just the way the producers meant it to?
- Structure – Which Bluetooth headphones work best for me? In-ear, on-ear, over-ear?
- Objective – Do I want to use my headphones more for music or phone calls?
- Noise – Do I often find myself in a noisy environment? Do I want to drown out my ambient entirely?
- Budget – Am I open to making a serious long-term investment? Or do I want an affordable product that delivers acceptable quality?
After you receive yours and test them out for a week or two, don’t forget to drop by again and tell us all about your experience!
M Berger
July 13, 2018 at 10:00 pmThe Plantronics Bluetooth headphones are quite good. They really do cancel out noise quite effectively, and the sound quality is good too. It lasts for a long time as well. Therefore if you are looking for a good quality Bluetooth headphone, it is in front of your nose.
Jerry Russell
July 24, 2018 at 8:11 amThanks a lot for your feedback! We’re happy to hear that!
Charlotte
July 26, 2018 at 10:59 pmB-66s are great Bluetooth headphones. They are affordable and are so easy to use. They should be rated #1 as far as I am concerned. I am not sure why they aren’t because they are better than the others around.