I tested the best Sony headphones and earbuds for ANC, sound, and cool factor: See my top 7 picks
As Black Friday approaches, savvy shoppers are gearing up to take advantage of significant discounts on Sony headphones, making it an ideal time to explore the brand’s diverse offerings. Whether you’re in the market for a high-quality AirPods alternative or budget-friendly options under $50, Sony has a range of headphones and earbuds that cater to various preferences and needs. With discounts already rolling in ahead of the shopping event, models like the flagship Sony XM6s have seen a price drop of $20, while the WH-CH720 noise-cancelling headphones are now available for under $100. For those seeking even more affordable options, the CH-520 headphones are priced at just $38, and the noise-cancelling WF-C710N earbuds are a steal at $79. This early wave of discounts sets a promising tone for the upcoming Black Friday sales, giving consumers a head start on finding the perfect audio gear.
Choosing the right pair of Sony headphones can be a daunting task, given the myriad of features available across different models. With a focus on active noise cancellation (ANC), battery life, and high-resolution sound, shoppers must consider their specific needs and budget. For instance, audiophiles may want to look for headphones equipped with Sony’s adaptive sound technology, such as 360 Reality Audio and DSEE, which enhance the listening experience. Frequent travelers may prioritize models with robust ANC that effectively drowns out ambient noise, while fitness enthusiasts might prefer earbuds with transparency modes to stay aware of their surroundings during workouts. Notably, the Sony LinkBuds Fit offer a great option for those who want to maintain connectivity within the Sony ecosystem while exercising. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and budget, with several excellent options available at various price points, ensuring that everyone can find a suitable pair of headphones this Black Friday.
For those looking to make an informed purchase, the recent updates to the headphone guide highlight key models that have been rigorously tested. The Sony WH-CH520 on-ear headphones have earned the title of “Budget pick,” thanks to their impressive performance at a low price point, while the WH-CH720N noise-cancelling headphones have been recognized as the “Best Sony headphones under $100.” With these recommendations and the enticing discounts available, consumers are well-equipped to make the most of their Black Friday shopping experience, ensuring they find the right Sony headphones to suit their audio needs.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2X6XNuFXnjU
My pro tip: Take advantage of Black Friday deals on Sony headphones
Whether you’re looking for an
AirPods
alternative, budget cans under $50, or a wireless headphones with a wider sound range than the
best Bose headphones
, Sony has you covered on all fronts.
And with
Black Friday
just around the corner, you can get almost all of these headphones for even cheaper than usual. In the weeks leading up to the shopping event, the flagship XM6s received a small $20 discount, the mid-range WH-CH720 headphones are on sale for under $100, the CH-520 headphones are all the way back down to $38, and the noise-cancelling WF-C710N are just $79. We’re also watching the XM4 and XM5 models very closely. In other words, the sale prices are starting off strong.
So which should you buy? I spent the past several months testing and re-testing
all
of Sony’s most popular headphones and earbuds (and the better part of a decade reviewing headphones) to help you decide.
Now, let’s check out the best Sony headphones of 2025.
How to choose the best Sony headphones
Sony headphones and earbuds juggle several priorities, including ANC, battery life, hi-res sound, and multipoint pairing. However, you may need to compromise on some of these features if you’re not willing to spend $300 or more, the minimum price for flagship headphones in 2025.
If you want audio you can tailor to your liking, look for headphones
carrying Sony’s adaptive sound features
: 360 Reality Audio, DSEE, and Find My Equalizer. Travelers and road warriors need a model with ANC powerful enough to eliminate sounds across the entire frequency spectrum,
not just airplane engines
. Those who live active lifestyles or exercise regularly can find buds with a transparency mode that keeps them aware of their surroundings. Lengthy playtimes and wireless perks (e.g., Bluetooth multipoint, mobile app) have their benefits as well. And while Sony doesn’t specialize in
sports earbuds
like Beats (and increasingly Apple as well), the Sony LinkBuds Fit let you stay in the Sony ecosystem while you work out.
As in all shopping decisions, it all comes down to preference and budget.
Recent changes to this guide
The Sony XM5 and XM6 headphones.
Credit: Joe Maldonado / Mashable
Sony WH-CH520 on-ear headphones
:
We added these headphones in September 2025 after re-reviewing them and having a positive experience. We’ve named them our new “Budget pick.”
Sony WH-CH720N noise-cancelling headphones
:
Previously our “Budget pick,” we named them the “Best Sony headphones under $100” in our most recent update.
