Finally, that pair of noise-cancelling headphones you’ve wanted all year is on sale. But here’s the problem: Black Friday has too many good deals. Trying to find the genuine best bang for your buck sale can feel like a full-time job. Sony, Bose, Apple, what to choose?
That’s where we step in. We’ve found the top headphones for every category that will actually be worth your money. Whether you’re after all-day comfort, industry-leading noise cancellation, or a massive discount, we’ve got you covered on the best headphones we’ve tried.
Without further ado, here’s what you’re after.
NOTE: Prices are accurate at the time of publishing.
Best noise-cancellingSony WH1000XM6 Noise Cancelling Headphones, was $699.95, now $577
9PR: XM6 Sony Headphones (9Product Reviews / XM6)Save 17%
The new Sony WH-1000XM6 is finally discounted by $122.95, marking the lowest price we’ve tracked for this flagship model in recent times. They deliver the best noise cancellation, and they’re great for enhancing focus, offering incredibly balanced audio and top-tier comfort for extended listening sessions of up to 30 hours. If you’re after the definitive ANC model this year, then right now is a good time to snag a deal on this pair.
Buy this if:
You’re after the best noise cancellation available for flights or busy officesYou’re after a generally well-received pair of headphones with great sound quality.
READ MORE: A serial Sony fan tries their latest noise-cancelling headphones
Best overall value and comfortBose QuietComfort SC Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones, was $499.95, now $299
The Bose QuietComfort SC is one of the best value deals this Black Friday, dropping $200 off. Weightless, all-day listening is the key benefit here; we find the comfort superior, making them perfect for extended listening sessions or long flights. They have great noise cancelling with an essential Wind Block feature, solidifying its rank as the best overall value. If your priority is top-tier ANC performance coupled with unparalleled comfort at a serious discount, this model is our recommendation.
Buy this if:
You want great bang for your buckYou’re after a comfortable pair of headphones built to last
READ MORE: Why the Bose QuietComfort SC headphones are worth it
Best running headphonesShokz OpenRun Pro 2 Bone Conduction Sports Headphones, was $319, now $248
The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 are seeing a 22 per cent saving, bringing this premium athletic gear down to just $248 from $319. When running, we appreciate that they ensure uncompromised safety, as the bone conduction technology leaves your ears open for situational awareness, like hearing traffic. It’s a great pick for endurance sports, marathons and outdoor training, providing a secure fit, 12-hour battery life, and an IP55 rating to withstand sweat and rain.
Buy this if:
You require durable, lightweight running headphones that will securely fitYou need 12 hours of battery life to handle marathon training or multi-day use
READ MORE: Why these bone conduction headphones are game-changing for runners
Best design, controls and customisabilityNothing Headphone (1), was $509, now $349.77
Nothing prepared us for how much we liked these headphones. They offer high-res audio with a striking, cassette-like transparent design (that’s sure to turn heads). We were also impressed with the tactile controls, particularly the analogue scroll wheel for volume and the extensive custom EQ options, making this a standout pair for tech and audio enthusiasts, or someone who just wants a unique pair of headphones. Plus, the noise cancellation is, quite frankly, pretty good.
Buy this if:
You want a distinctive design that makes an aesthetic statementYou prefer tactile controls, including the satisfying analogue scroll wheel for volumeYou’re after good audio and extensive custom EQ options
READ MORE: Nothing Headphones are a must-see, but are they a must-buy?
Best earbudsAirPods Pro 3, was $429, now $406
(9Product Reviews / AirPods)Save 5%
Okay, it’s not a massive discount, but it’s made the list for its standout noise cancellation. When testing, we were absolutely gobsmacked by the performance of these earbuds. They’re the definitive best option for Apple ecosystem users and are an essential upgrade if you’re looking for a pair of earbuds.
Buy this if:
You are a dedicated Apple userYou require class-leading noise cancellation in a small, secure earbud form factor
READ MORE: There’s a lot to love about the Apple AirPods Pro 3
Best open-back headphonesSennheiser HD 660S2 Audiophile Headphones, was $945.95, now $549
These headphones are an experience in themselves, offering a spacious soundstage with dynamic, deep bass and beautiful mid and treble profiles. I’ve been testing them for a little over a month now during my day-to-day and PC gaming, and the headphones offer incredible detail and nuance in any sound playback situation. They do feel a bit clamped heavy on the head, but because of how immersive their sound quality is, I’ve found myself forgetting I’m wearing them. If you’re after high-fidelity grade audio, this massive discount provides a great lower barrier to entry.
Buy this if:
You prioritise accurate listening and acoustic performance over noise cancellation You are seeking a step-up into high-fidelity audio with an amazing soundstage You have a quiet listening environment free from outside noise
READ MORE: We found the AirPods 4 killer that will have you talking to your hand