2026’s Best Headphones and Earbuds: A Comprehensive Roundup
It’s been all go in the world of headphones and earbuds in the first six months of 2026. In fact, we’ve published no fewer than 70 audio-product reviews in the first half of the year.
In the ever-evolving wireless headphones space, the predicted uptick in open-ear designs (with a 400% surge in releases forecasted late last year) alongside an enduring interest in wired options (driven by the digital detox trend) has provided an abundance of choices for this roundup.
Given this wealth of options, I’ve chosen to expand my usual ‘5 best’ list to ‘8 best’, offering a balanced selection of top headphones and earbuds tested so far this year. You’ll find a wired option in the list, as well as a couple of open-fit earbuds, reflecting the latest trends in audio technology.
The Best Earbuds of 2026
1. Shokz Openfit Pro
- Release date: January 6, 2026
- Rating: 4.5 / 5
(Image credit: Future)
The Shokz Openfit Pro are groundbreaking open earbuds that sound surprisingly rich for their design. Developed for active users, they come equipped with a “synchronized dual-diaphragm driver and noise reduction,” effectively incorporating active noise cancellation (ANC) in an open-ear format—an impressive feat in 2026.
The use of aerospace-grade aluminum in the driver housing bolsters both the design and sound quality, making these earbuds ideal for various sporting activities. Early hands-on reports have praised their sound quality and fit, establishing them as a must-try option for fitness enthusiasts.
Read our in-depth Shokz Openfit Pro review
2. Sennheiser CX 80U
- Release date: January 27, 2026
- Rating: 4.5 / 5
(Image credit: Future)
Priced at an accessible $39.95 / £34.99, the Sennheiser CX 80U earbuds deliver exceptional sound quality without breaking the bank. They produce responsive and clean bass and offer a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions, which is crucial for many audiophiles.
With an in-line controller and various ear tip sizes included, these earbuds are designed for convenience and usability, making them a smart choice for anyone open to exploring wired options.
Read our in-depth Sennheiser CX 80U review
3. Huawei Freebuds Pro 5
- Release date: February 26, 2026
- Rating: 5 / 5
(Image credit: Future)
The Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5 are often considered a serious rival to Apple’s AirPods Pro. Their fifth-generation design showcases significant improvements in sound quality, build, and overall performance, making them a compelling option for consumers.
With a lighter frame and excellent depth of sound, the Freebuds Pro 5 are designed to please even the most discerning ears, and they boast an appealing aesthetic that belies their competitive pricing.
Read our in-depth Huawei Freebuds Pro 5 review
4. Anker Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro
- Release date: May 21, 2026
- Rating: 4.5 / 5
(Image credit: Future)
The Anker Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro represent a remarkable advancement in sound quality for the brand. The earbuds offer a comfortable fit and are accompanied by an app filled with features, including excellent ANC technology, adjustable sound profiles, and more.
Notably, the stylish touchscreen case adds a modern touch, while maintaining the user-friendly experience expected from Anker products.
Read our in-depth Anker Soundcore Liberty 5 Pro review
The Best Headphones of 2026
1. Audio-Technica ATH-ADX7000
- Release date: October 31, 2025 (reviewed in March 2026)
- Rating: 5 / 5
(Image credit: Future)
The Audio-Technica ATH-ADX7000 are a premium pair of wired headphones that exemplify high-end audio performance. With a hefty price tag of $3,499 / £3,000 / AU$4,999, these headphones deliver exceptional comfort and audio precision, ideally suited for audiophiles.
These open-back headphones are best enjoyed in quiet environments, where their exquisite soundstage can truly shine. Users can expect engaging lows and crisp highs, making them an investment worth considering for serious music enthusiasts.
Read our in-depth Audio-Technica ATH-ADX7000 review
2. Nothing Headphone (a)
- Release date: March 13, 2026
- Rating: 4.5 / 5
(Image credit: Future)
The Nothing Headphone (a) marks a significant improvement over its predecessor, providing better sound quality in a more compact and affordable package. This model showcases innovative features like a customizable button for voice assistants or EQ adjustments.
The solid design and compelling audio make these headphones a noteworthy contender in the mid-range market, appealing to those seeking quality without a premium price tag.
Read our in-depth Nothing Headphone (a) review
3. Apple AirPods Max 2
- Release date: March 16, 2026
- Rating: 4.5 / 5
(Image credit: Future)
The Apple AirPods Max 2 build on the success of the original model, offering enhanced active noise cancellation and sound quality thanks to the new H2 chip in each ear cup. Although the design remains largely unchanged, the performance upgrades make them a noteworthy purchase for any Apple enthusiast.
While the price tag and battery life can be points of contention, the overall sound experience and functionality of the AirPods Max 2 have received acclaim.
Read our in-depth Apple AirPods Max 2 review
4. Marshall Milton ANC
- Release date: May 19, 2026
- Rating: 4.5 / 5
(Image credit: Future)
The Marshall Milton ANC headphones seamlessly blend style and functionality, offering 50 hours of playback with ANC activated. This represents a strong competitor in the mid-range market, with a chic design that evokes the brand’s heritage.
Not only do they look great, but they also deliver impressive audio performance, enriched by a customizable sound profile for an enhanced listening experience.
Read our in-depth Marshall Milton ANC review
The Best of the Rest
We’ve rigorously tested numerous headphones and earbuds this year, but not all products could make it onto this list. Highlighting a few honorable mentions:
The Meze Audio Strada boasts a luxurious feel and sound, perfect for larger-headed audiophiles, while the JBL Live 780NC impresses with its solid performance and 80-hour battery life. Lastly, the Grado Signature S750 showcases a broad soundstage and striking design, appealing to audiophiles with a robust sound preference.
If you’re looking for high-quality audio solutions and wish to explore the best options available in 2026, our comprehensive review section is a rewarding resource.
For further details and in-depth reviews, visit our full list on TechRadar.
Image Credit: www.techradar.com
