Top 6 Best Sony Headphones of 2025

Explore the top Sony headphones offering incredible sound quality and advanced features, perfect for any music lover.

Overview of Sony Headphones

We have tested over sixty models of Sony headphones. Sony is a versatile brand producing a wide array of headphones across various price ranges. It's one of the best headphone brands available on the market, offering numerous affordable options for everyday listening, as well as more expensive models with advanced features.

Best Sony Headphones

Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless

Specifications:

• Type: Over-ear
• Build: Closed-back
• Wireless: Yes
• Driver: Dynamic
• Noise Cancellation: Yes
• Microphone: Yes

The standout model among Sony headphones we tested is the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless. These full-sized headphones are more affordable than their successor, the Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless. They feel sturdier and offer better sound isolation, particularly from low-frequency noises like engine hums, making them the best noise-canceling headphones we’ve tested. Their active noise-canceling system surpasses that of the Bose QuietComfort Headphones Wireless. The padding is more comfortable and resilient compared to WH-1000XM5, fitting most heads, especially smaller ones, better.

Their slightly bass-heavy sound profile adds depth and power to your mixes, and you can customize it using the graphic equalizer and presets in the Sony | Headphones Connect app. They are durable and provide impressive battery life—around 37 hours. However, they are not ideal for phone calls as the built-in microphone has subpar recording quality, and your voice may be drowned out by background noise if you call from a noisy environment. On the other hand, the WH-1000XM5 microphone excels in noise cancellation, capturing your voice more clearly, making it a better option for calls.

Sony WF-1000XM5 Truly Wireless

Specifications:

• Type: In-ear
• Build: Closed-back
• Wireless: Yes
• Driver: Dynamic
• Noise Cancellation: Yes
• Microphone: Yes

The Sony WF-1000XM5 Truly Wireless earbuds are a fantastic alternative if you need something lighter and more portable. They are the best earbuds we've tested from Sony. They feature versatile specifications that appeal to a wide range of listeners. Compared to the original Sony WF-1000XM4, this version boasts a slightly improved design with memory foam ear tips. These tips block significantly more background noise, enhancing sound isolation, and they effectively drown out all kinds of ambient noise. However, some users may find the foam tips uncomfortable as they can press against ear canals.

As for sound quality, these earbuds deliver a balanced sound right out of the box. Vocals and lead instruments sound clear and precise, with bass being a bit richer. The graphic equalizer and presets make it easy to adjust the sound to your preferences, and you can even use the “Find My Equalizer” feature to create a custom setting based on your tastes. They run about 8.75 hours on a single charge, and you can always use their portable charging case for recharging on the go. If you seek earbuds with similar features, consider the Sony LinkBuds S Truly Wireless; they are a mid-range option that doesn’t sit as deeply in your ears, making them more comfortable for some, though they don’t block noise as well. Still, they have many of the same app features as the WF-1000XM5, including an equalizer.

Sony WH-CH520 Wireless

Specifications:

• Type: Over-ear
• Build: Closed-back
• Wireless: Yes
• Driver: Dynamic
• Noise Cancellation: No
• Microphone: Yes

The Sony WH-CH520 Wireless headphones are the best budget wireless headphones available from Sony. Unlike the WH-1000XM4 Wireless, which sits on the ear, these are designed for ear wear. While they lack noise cancellation and aren’t as premium as their flagship counterparts, they have similar app features. For instance, you can access an equalizer, a voice assistant for phone calls, and virtual surround sound (with compatible streaming services).

Without the equalizer, the sound is somewhat warm but balanced in the mids. If you want to enhance the bass or hear more details in your favorite singer’s voice, you’ll likely want to use the equalizer for tuning low and high frequencies. Overall, they provide a good starting point for customizing the sound to your liking. In contrast to the pricier Sony headphones, these use buttons instead of touch controls, which cannot be reassigned. They only support Bluetooth connectivity, with no wired option. Due to a lack of noise isolation, they may not block sounds in busy open-plan offices or on planes. However, their battery life is impressive—over 52 hours—and you'll be able to hear your surroundings well while wearing them on a walk.

Sony ULT WEAR

Specifications:

• Type: Over-ear
• Build: Closed-back
• Wireless: Yes
• Driver: Dynamic
• Noise Cancellation: Yes
• Microphone: Yes

If you love the warm sound of the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless but crave even more bass, the Sony ULT WEAR Wireless headphones might be just what you need. Right out of the box, the ULT WEAR delivers a very deep, rich sound. Hip-hop fans will appreciate the booming bass and beats, and disco basslines in songs like Dua Lipa's "Don’t Start Now" are immersive and engaging. If you need even more bass, simply press the dedicated ULT button, which instantly unlocks two additional levels of bass without fiddling with equalizers. Of course, all that extra bass may overshadow vocals and mid-range instruments like guitars, but that’s to be expected with such low frequencies.

The ULT WEAR headphones are not as sturdy as the pricier WH-1000XM4, but they fit securely on the head, making them suitable for workouts. Their microphone is significantly better than the WH-1000XM4, effectively isolating your voice from surrounding noise. Nonetheless, while the ULT WEAR has excellent noise cancellation, it cannot compete with the more expensive headphones in terms of soundproofing quality. If you’re a bass lover who needs to shut out the world, you might be better off using the equalizer settings on the WH-1000XM4. For everyone else, the ULT WEAR is a solid choice and a strong contender in Sony’s lineup.

Sony MDR-MV1

Specifications:

• Type: Over-ear
• Build: Open-back
• Wireless: No
• Driver: Dynamic
• Noise Cancellation: No
• Microphone: No

The best Sony headphones for studio use in our tests are the Sony MDR-MV1. These premium headphones differ significantly from previous models, featuring an open-back design that intentionally allows sound to escape. This outward sound can interact with the environment, creating a more spacious and immersive experience. Their balanced sound is suitable for mixing and mastering audio, providing detailed vocal and instrument sounds in tracks. While sibilant sounds, like ringing cymbals, can be piercing, they are often preferable as they help identify mix flaws.

They sit comfortably on the head and are suitable for extended listening, but they do not block ambient noise, so they’re not ideal for live performance listening. However, the Sony MDR-7506 is a worthy alternative if you seek headphones for audiophile music listening. These closed-back headphones can isolate some mid-range sounds, such as surrounding voices, and are reasonably priced—making it appealing if you want to buy multiple pairs for your studio. However, they do not offer a very wide or open soundstage.

Sony INZONE H9 Wireless

Specifications:

• Type: Over-ear
• Build: Closed-back
• Wireless: Yes
• Driver: Dynamic
• Noise Cancellation: Yes
• Microphone: Yes

If you need specialized gaming headphones, consider the Sony INZONE H9 Wireless. These are the most expensive headphones in Sony's INZONE line and are designed specifically for PS5, though they can also be used on PC. Unfortunately, Xbox users will need to look for other compatible wireless gaming headphones. They even feature an active noise cancellation system, and while it doesn’t surpass the best Sony noise-canceling headphones like WH-1000XM4, it can still block noises like surrounding chatter or fan hums. With noise cancellation on and connected to two devices simultaneously, they last over 22 hours without interruption.

These comfortable over-ear headphones provide spatial sound when using an adapter, enhancing sound effects like footsteps during gameplay. If you’re using them on PC, you can access the graphic equalizer and presets in the app to customize the sound to your preferences. If you enjoy playing with others, their flexible boom microphone provides decent recording quality. With a wireless USB adapter, they have low latency. If you're unsure whether you want full-sized headphones and are looking for something more versatile, check out the Sony INZONE Buds True Wireless. They have shorter battery life and a narrower soundstage, but they balance that with a more neutral sound profile by default. However, they only support Bluetooth LE, limiting their compatibility with mobile devices.

Comparing Sony Headphones with Other Brands

Pros:

• Variety: Sony produces everything from open-back headphones to wireless TV options at various price points. While we have yet to explore their entire range, they generally have something for everyone.
• Diverse Sound Profiles: Sony headphones typically offer well-balanced or bass-heavy sounds. This diversity helps cater to a broad audience since some people find flat sound too dull, while others find it too bass-heavy.
• Excellent Mobile App: Many of their Bluetooth headphones are compatible with the Sony | Headphones Connect app. Most models offer a great graphic equalizer, and the more expensive ones provide numerous options for virtual soundscapes.

Cons:

• Inconsistent Noise Cancellation: Although Sony has several models that effectively block out noise, such as the WH-1000XM4, the noise-canceling capabilities of most of their models are only satisfactory.
• High Prices for Quality Headphones: While Sony’s top-end headphones are industry leaders, they can be quite pricey. Their less expensive options often feature poor build quality or sound, especially compared to models from specialized budget brands.
• Lacking Certain Features: Despite having several multifunctional models, even some of their high-end Bluetooth headphones lack features that other brands consider standard. This includes microphone control, multi-device pairing, playback while charging, or an auto-off timer.

Sony vs. Bose

Sony and Bose are often compared, especially regarding noise cancellation. While Bose primarily focuses on noise-canceling capabilities, their products also tend to have a more balanced sound, which may appeal to some users. They have a small but diverse range, including aviation headsets and sunglasses with speakers. In contrast, Sony headphones usually offer wider sound customization options, including 360 Reality Audio, and tend to have richer bass. Their range is extensive, and there’s something for everyone across all price brackets.

Sony vs. Apple

Sony and Apple are well-known brands that produce fantastic wireless devices for everyday use. To get the most out of Apple headphones, you need to be an iOS/iPad user, as many features, like Spatial Audio, are only available in their ecosystem. Their noise-canceling headphones also compete with Sony’s offerings, although Sony generally has the edge. Apple also does not offer the same variety of products as Sony.

Sony vs. Sennheiser

Sennheiser specializes in audiophile headphones, so the brand largely caters to people with diverse needs. However, similar to Sony, they also produce high-quality in-ear and over-ear noise-canceling headphones designed for more casual use. They generally provide fairly balanced sound profiles and sound customization features, but Sony’s noise-canceling headphones deliver more effective noise cancellation.

Sony vs. Anker

Like Sony, Anker produces various wireless over-ear and in-ear headphones for casual use. Their best noise-canceling headphones compete with more expensive Sony options, and some Anker headphones even support LDAC—the proprietary codec from Sony for high-resolution sound playback. Sony offers a broader range of headphones with various designs, such as open-back in-ears and gaming headsets. If you’re looking for premium headphones, Sony has more options.

Sony is renowned for its diverse product range—from top-quality everyday headphones like the WF-1000X and WH-1000X to the PlayStation-oriented INZONE gaming headsets. However, the best Sony headphones often come at a high price but offer excellent value for those seeking the best experience. Quality varies by model, and cheaper options typically come with fewer features. Noise cancellation may not be perfect, but it performs well in more expensive models.

Sony Product Lines

Sony has several different headphone lines, but their naming strategy isn't always clear. Some of their more functional Bluetooth or active noise-canceling headphones can belong to the same family as basic wired models, which can be confusing. Their most consistent naming conventions are:

• MDR = Audiophile headphones, including full-size, in-ear, and on-ear models. For in-ear and on-ear headphones, these differ from the IER line in that they are not professional.
• IER = In-ear reference monitors.
• INZONE = Wireless gaming headphones and buds.
• PULSE = Wireless gaming headphones and in-ears sold under the PlayStation brand.
• WF = True wireless earbuds for everyday use.
• WI = In-ear headphones for everyday use. This includes neckband-style headphones.
• WH = Over-ear headphones for everyday use.

In addition to these main lines, there are subcategories that follow the line name. Unfortunately, some names, such as CH or ZX, are unclear, but here are the most common ones:

• 1000 = Best wireless noise-canceling headphones, including WH-1000XM5 and WF-1000XM4.
• AS/SP = Sport-oriented. AS generally connects to MDR, while SP connects to WI.
• XB = Extra Bass, headphones with enhanced bass sound.
• RF = Stands for "radio frequency" and is intended for home theater use.
• LP = Discontinued. Used for wired headphones (which sit outside the ear canal) and on-ear models.
• ULT = Everyday use line with a focus on bass.

Some models, such as the Sony WH-CH700N Wireless, also end with an N, indicating noise cancellation. However, this only applies to headphones outside the WH-1000, WF-1000, and LinkBuds lines.

Finally, there are a couple of exceptions to this classification system. The Sony LinkBuds Truly Wireless (also known as WF-L900) and Sony LinkBuds S Truly Wireless are among the few modern models that don’t conform to this classification scheme. Although they are opposite in terms of noise cancellation, their lineup is designed with ambient sound in mind. There are also Sony Float Run Wireless headphones with open ear cups.

They also offer a few special headphones for PlayStation. These headsets, including the PlayStation Platinum Wireless Headset and Sony Pulse 3D Wireless, are produced directly by PlayStation (owned by Sony) rather than Sony Electronics, which manufactures the above products. This means you won’t find these headsets on Sony's headphone sales website.

In conclusion, Sony offers a fantastic range of headphones to suit different needs and preferences. Whether you're after top-tier noise cancellation, a balanced sound profile, or budget options, there’s something for everyone in their lineup.

• What are the best Sony headphones for everyday use? Sony WH-1000XM4 and WF-1000XM5 are highly recommended for their comfort and sound quality.
• Do Sony headphones support noise cancellation? Yes, many models, including WH-1000XM4, offer advanced noise cancellation features.
• What is the battery life of Sony headphones? Battery life varies, with models like the WH-CH520 lasting up to 52 hours.
• Are Sony headphones compatible with mobile apps? Yes, many Sony headphones work with the Sony | Headphones Connect app for customization.
• Which Sony headphones are best for gaming? Sony INZONE H9 Wireless headphones are designed specifically for gaming and offer great features for a competitive edge.

Ready to enhance your audio experience? Check out our store for your favorite album cover poster at Architeg Prints.