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The Best Over-Ear Headphones under $250

★ Top Choice

Bowers & Wilkins

PX Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones

BUY NOW

From $220.67

More info
♥ Runner Up

Beats

Studio3 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones

BUY NOW

From $242.59

More info
Runner-Up, Best Overall
Best Splurge

Bowers & Wilkins PX Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones

★ Top Choice
BUY NOW From $220.67

Features

  • TO GET THE BEST FROM PX, install the latest version of the firmware. This is done via the dedicated Bowers & Wilkins Headphones app, downloadable for free from the AppStore or Google Play Store.
  • Frequency response - 20-20KHz.
  • FEEL MORE OF YOUR MUSIC - Built with the same drive units from our P9 Signature headphones, the PX provides optimized listening performance. We have also subtly angled the drivers to provide a more natural stereo perspective.
  • SMART POWER -Battery type -850mAh-Lithium Polymer. Battery life- Upto 22 hours BT/ANC, Upto 29 hours BT/no ANC, Upto 33 hours ANC/wired, Upto 50 hours wired/no ANC. PX is always ready; put it down and it goes into power-saving sleep mode; pick it up and you're good to go. PX is the smartest Bluetooth headphone on the market.
  • ADAPTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION - Perfect sound anywhere - on a plane, in the street or in the office. The best adaptive noise cancelling headphones, customizable to your exact preference.
  • PX RESPONDS TO YOU - When you need to pause, lift an ear cup. Put PX down and it goes to sleep. Pick it up to resume playing. Worry less about your headphones and enjoy your music more.
  • Frequency response - 10Hz to 20kHz and Impedance - 22 ohms (passive).

Pros

  • ⊕ Can-style headphones.
  • ⊕ Comfortable, stylish design.
  • ⊕ Cable included for wired use.

Cons

  • ⊖ Expensive.
  • ⊖ Glitchy in testing.

Beats Studio3 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones

♥ Runner Up
BUY NOW From $242.59

Features

  • Pure adaptive noise canceling (pure ANC) actively blocks external noise.
  • Up to 22 hours of battery life enables full-featured all-day wireless playback.
  • Take calls, control your music, and activate Siri with the multifunction on-ear controls and microphone.
  • What's in the box: Beats Studio3 Wireless headphones, Carrying case, 3.5mm RemoteTalk cable, Universal USB charging cable, Quick Start Guide, Warranty Card.
  • Compatible with iOS and Android devices.
  • Apple's W1 chip and industry-leading Bluetooth technology keep you connected farther with fewer drop-outs.
  • High-performance wireless noise cancelling headphones in matte black.
  • Real-time Audio calibration preserves a Premium listening experience.
  • With fast Fuel, a 10-minute charge gives 3 hours of play when battery is low. Rechargeable lithium ion battery.

Jabra Elite 85h

Best Adaptive Sound
BUY NOW From $246.47

Features

  • LONG BATTERY LIFE HEADPHONES: Up to 36 hours of battery on a single charge (with ANC switched on), and fast charging of 5 battery hours in 15 minutes; Listen from the start of the day to the end with these noise canceling headphones.
  • SMARTSOUND AUDIO: The revolutionary SmartSound Audio technology in these Bluetooth headphones analyze your sound environment and automatically applies your personalized audio to give you the sound you need, when you need it.
  • WATER RESISTANT: No matter the elements, you’re prepared to go anywhere with certified water and rain resistant headphone technology and nano coating of the internal components; Plus, there are no pesky wires in these Bluetooth wireless headphones.
  • UNMATCHED CALL QUALITY: The advanced technology uses 6 of the 8 built in microphones to enhance call quality and block out background and wind noise; This enables crystal clear sound, so you can make and receive calls in total confidence.
  • BLOCK UNWANTED BACKGROUND NOISE: Jabra Elite 85h Wireless Headphones are engineered for the best wireless calls and music experience with SmartSound; Smart Active Noise cancellation responds to the environment, switching on if it detects background noise.

Pros

  • ⊕ Great fit.
  • ⊕ Impressive audio.
  • ⊕ Easy-to-use design.
  • ⊕ Energetic soundstage.
  • ⊕ Remarkable battery life.

Cons

  • ⊖ Pricey.
  • ⊖ Bulky and heavy.
  • ⊖ Bass could be punchier.
  • ⊖ Bulky and heavy design.
  • ⊖ Not as comfy for larger heads.

Specs

  • Cable length: N/A.
  • Drivers: 40mm.
  • Acoustic design: Closed.
  • Driver type: Dynamic.
  • Battery life: 36 hours.
  • Weight: .65 pounds.
  • Frequency response: 10Hz to 20kHz.
  • Wireless range: 10 meters (33ft).

Sony WH-XB900N

Best Splurge
BUY NOW From $248

Features

  • Optimize your sound settings with the Sony-Headphones Connect app.
  • Next-level digital noise cancelling technology.
  • High quality wireless audio with Bluetooth and NFC plus LDAC.
  • Feel the power of EXTRA BASS.
  • Touch Sensor controls to pause play skip tracks control volume activate your voice assistant and answer phone calls.
  • Enjoy the convenience of hands-free calling thanks to the integrated microphone and Bluetooth connectivity.
  • In the Box Carrying Pouch Connection Cable (Headphone cable (approx 1 2m stereo mini plug) USB Cable Card Operating Instructions Reference Guide.
  • Activate Alexa the Google Assistant or your voice assistant with a simple touch.
  • Get up to 30 hours of battery life.
  • Quick Attention Mode for effortless conversations without taking your headphones off.

Pros

  • ⊕ Powerful bass.
  • ⊕ Excellent bass.
  • ⊕ Sleek and attractive.
  • ⊕ Clear mids and highs.
  • ⊕ Solid noise-canceling.

Cons

  • ⊖ Pricey.