Mashable has published its updated guide to the best headphones of 2026, drawing on year-round testing of established models, new releases and budget options. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 are the publication’s overall favorite, while the list also covers choices aimed at listeners seeking better value, longer battery life or a premium Sony experience.
Mashable says the latest flagship noise-cancelling headphones from brands such as Apple, Sony and Bose can cost $450 or more, but its recommendations span a range of prices. The guide describes the Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2 as a strong all-round option, citing their comfort, noise cancellation and improved battery life of up to 30 hours with ANC enabled. They also support wired listening through USB-C or an auxiliary cable.
Sony’s WH-1000XM6 are recommended for audiophiles and people who like to customize their sound. Mashable praises their audio quality, particularly vocals, and their effective noise cancellation. The headphones fold for easier storage and travel, but their battery life remains at 30 hours with ANC on, matching the previous generation. The guide also notes that the XM6 cost more than the XM5, while describing the changes as incremental rather than revolutionary.
For shoppers on a tighter budget, Mashable points to the JLab JBuds Lux ANC and Sony WH-CH720. The JLab pair is often available for around $50 to $55, according to the article, and offers adjustable noise cancellation, customizable controls and balanced sound for the price. Potential drawbacks include an occasionally laggy app and a fit that may feel uncomfortable during long listening sessions. Sony’s WH-CH720 are another option for buyers seeking ANC below $100; Mashable highlights their sound, app-based equalizer and battery life of more than 50 hours, while flagging their plastic build and microphones as weaker points.
The guide also singles out Nothing Headphone (a) for battery life. Mashable reports up to 75 hours per charge with ANC enabled and 135 hours with it off. The headphones cost $199 and pair that endurance with clear sound and practical on-ear controls, though their noise cancellation is not flawless and the design may not suit everyone.
Other recommendations include Bose’s second-generation QuietComfort headphones, presented as a comfortable alternative to the more expensive Ultra 2, and Sony’s WH-1000XM5, which Mashable says remain worth considering when discounted. The guide’s selections reflect different priorities, with no single pair presented as the best fit for every listener.
Sources: Mashable.