The Best Headphones

Headphone reviews UK: compare the best headphones

Compare headphones with independent expert reviews, COR Scores and exact-model specifications. Find the best fit for your needs, explore the buying advice below and check available UK retailer offers.

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Choosing the best headphones starts with how you will use them. Consider commute and travel, desk calls, home listening, then match the features and practical requirements to your shortlist.

Our UK headphone reviews comparison brings together published critics’ assessments and recorded product specifications. A COR Score converts eligible ratings to five points and gives each publisher equal weight. Read the original reviews for the reasoning, tested configuration and review date; an average becomes available after three distinct critics.

Use the available category filters to explore recorded features. Open each product to check its full manufacturer code, configuration and current review coverage. Compare retailer offers for that exact version, including condition, accessories and delivery.

Below the results, explore the buying guides, work through how to choose, or use the glossary to make sense of unfamiliar specifications.

4051 listed model optionsHow COR Scores workWhat we cover

1598 product listingsShowing 97–108

Turtle Beach TBS-5101-05

Turtle Beach

Atlas Air Wireless Open Back PC Gaming Headset with 24-bit High-Fidelity Audio, Broadcast Grade Mic, Floating Earcup, Memory Foam Cushions a

Product type
Headset
Wearing style
Head-band
Connectivity technology
Wired & Wireless
Noise canceling
Not confirmed

Current model — A matching version is currently sold in the UK. Check the exact version and retailer offer.

Turtle Beach Atlas Air Wireless Open Back PC Gaming Headset with 24-bit High-Fidelity Audio, Broadcast Grade Mic, Floating Earcup, Memory Foam Cushions and Bluetooth for PC, PS5, PS4 and Mobile
Model code: TBS-5101-05

Reviews & specificationsWhere to buy
COR Score4.01out of 57 critics

Bose

QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)

Product type
Headphones
Wearing style
Not confirmed
Connectivity technology
Not confirmed
Noise canceling
Not confirmed

Current model — A matching version is currently sold in the UK. Check the exact version and retailer offer.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) Cherry Chocolate
Model code: QCUH2-HEADPHONEARN-CHRCHO-WW

Reviews & specificationsWhere to buy
COR Score4.00out of 53 critics
Jabra 100-96100000-60

Jabra

Sport Pulse Wireless

Shown option: Black. Scores shown apply to this option.

Product type
Headset
Wearing style
In-ear
Connectivity technology
Wireless
Noise canceling
Yes

Current model — A matching version is currently sold in the UK. Check the exact version and retailer offer.

Jabra Sport Pulse Wireless
Model code: 100-96100000-60

Reviews & specificationsWhere to buy
2 model options — compare versions

Specifications, review scores and prices belong to each exact model.

  • Black100-96100000-60Historic — Current UK availability not confirmed4.00/5 · 4 critic reviews
  • Black100-96100000-65Historic — Current UK availability not confirmed4.00/5 · 4 critic reviews
COR Score4.00out of 54 critics

JLab

Go Air Pop

Product type
Headphones
Wearing style
in-ear
Connectivity technology
Wireless
Noise canceling
Not confirmed

Current model — A matching version is currently sold in the UK. Check the exact version and retailer offer.

JLab Go Air Pop Violet
Model code: EBGAIRPOPVIOL50WEB

Reviews & specificationsWhere to buy
COR Score4.00out of 56 critics
Samsung SM-R640NZDAEUB

Samsung

Galaxy Buds4 Pro

Shown option: Pink gold. Scores shown apply to this option.

Product type
Headset
Wearing style
In-ear
Connectivity technology
True Wireless Stereo (TWS)
Noise canceling
Yes

Current model — A matching version is currently sold in the UK. Check the exact version and retailer offer.

Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro Headset True Wireless Stereo (TWS) In-ear Calls/Music USB Type-C Bluetooth Pink gold
Model code: SM-R640NZDAEUB

Reviews & specificationsWhere to buy
7 model options — compare versions

Specifications, review scores and prices belong to each exact model.

  • Pink goldSM-R640NZDAEUBHistoric — Current UK availability not confirmed4.00/5 · 3 critic reviews
  • BlackSM-R640NZKADBTHistoric — Current UK availability not confirmed4.00/5 · 3 critic reviews
  • WhiteSM-R640NZWADBTHistoric — Current UK availability not confirmed4.00/5 · 3 critic reviews
  • WhiteSM-R640NZWAEUEHistoric — Current UK availability not confirmed4.00/5 · 4 critic reviews
  • WhiteSM-R640NZWAXEFHistoric — Current UK availability not confirmed4.00/5 · 4 critic reviews
  • BlackSM-R640NZKAEUBHistoric — Current UK availability not confirmedtbd · 0 critic reviews
  • WhiteSM-R640NZWAEUBHistoric — Current UK availability not confirmedtbd · 0 critic reviews
COR Score4.00out of 53 critics
SHOKZ T920BK

SHOKZ

OpenFit 2

Product type
Headset
Wearing style
Ear-hook, Open-ear
Connectivity technology
True Wireless Stereo (TWS)
Noise canceling
Not confirmed

Current model — A matching version is currently sold in the UK. Check the exact version and retailer offer.

SHOKZ OpenFit 2 Headset True Wireless Stereo (TWS) Ear-hook, Open-ear Calls/Music/Sport/Everyday Bluetooth Black
Model code: T920BK

Reviews & specificationsWhere to buy
COR Score4.00out of 53 critics
Sony WFG700NB.CE7

Sony

INZONE Buds

Shown option: Black. Scores shown apply to this option.

Product type
Headphones
Wearing style
Not confirmed
Connectivity technology
Not confirmed
Noise canceling
Not confirmed

Current model — A matching version is currently sold in the UK. Check the exact version and retailer offer.

Sony INZONE Buds Black
Model code: WFG700NB.CE7

Reviews & specificationsWhere to buy
3 model options — compare versions

Specifications, review scores and prices belong to each exact model.

  • BlackWFG700NB.CE7Historic — Current UK availability not confirmed4.00/5 · 4 critic reviews
  • Glass PurpleWFG700NV.CE7Historic — Current UK availability not confirmed4.00/5 · 4 critic reviews
  • WhiteWFG700NW.CE7Historic — Current UK availability not confirmed3.94/5 · 9 critic reviews
COR Score4.00out of 54 critics
Trust 24715

Trust

GXT 498 Forta

Shown option: Black. Scores shown apply to this option.

Product type
Headset
Wearing style
Head-band
Connectivity technology
Wired
Noise canceling
Not confirmed

Current model — A matching version is currently sold in the UK. Check the exact version and retailer offer.

Trust GXT 498 Forta Headset Wired Head-band Gaming Black
Model code: 24715

Reviews & specificationsWhere to buy
2 model options — compare versions

Specifications, review scores and prices belong to each exact model.

  • Black24715Historic — Current UK availability not confirmed4.00/5 · 4 critic reviews
  • Black, White24716Current4.00/5 · 4 critic reviews
COR Score4.00out of 54 critics
Jabra 100-91410000-60

Jabra

Elite 3 - Dark Grey

Product type
Headset
Wearing style
In-ear
Connectivity technology
True Wireless Stereo (TWS)
Noise canceling
Yes

Current model — A matching version is currently sold in the UK. Check the exact version and retailer offer.

Jabra Elite 3 - Dark Grey
Model code: 100-91410000-60

Reviews & specificationsWhere to buy
COR Score3.99out of 511 critics
Jabra 100-99160701-98

Jabra

Elite 8 Active - Navy

Shown option: Navy. Scores shown apply to this option.

Product type
Headset
Wearing style
In-ear
Connectivity technology
Not confirmed
Noise canceling
Yes

Current model — A matching version is currently sold in the UK. Check the exact version and retailer offer.

Jabra Elite 8 Active - Navy
Model code: 100-99160701-98

Reviews & specificationsWhere to buy
2 model options — compare versions

Specifications, review scores and prices belong to each exact model.

  • Navy100-99160701-98Historic — Current UK availability not confirmed3.99/5 · 9 critic reviews
  • Navy100-99160901-99Historic — Current UK availability not confirmed3.99/5 · 9 critic reviews
COR Score3.99out of 59 critics
Jabra 26599-899-989

Jabra

Evolve2 65 USB-A Black MS Chrg stand Mono

Product type
Headset
Wearing style
Head-band
Connectivity technology
Wireless
Noise canceling
Not confirmed

Current model — A matching version is currently sold in the UK. Check the exact version and retailer offer.

Jabra Evolve2 65 USB-A Black MS Chrg stand Mono
Model code: 26599-899-989

Reviews & specificationsWhere to buy
COR Score3.99out of 56 critics
Jabra 26599-999-989

Jabra

Evolve2 65 USB-A Black MS Chrg stand Stereo

Product type
Headset
Wearing style
Head-band
Connectivity technology
Wireless
Noise canceling
Not confirmed

Current model — A matching version is currently sold in the UK. Check the exact version and retailer offer.

Jabra Evolve2 65 USB-A Black MS Chrg stand Stereo
Model code: 26599-999-989

Reviews & specificationsWhere to buy
COR Score3.99out of 56 critics

Select a product to check its exact model, reviewed version and available retailer offers. Matching model options are grouped together where supported; the displayed score belongs to the shown option. Individual critic reviews remain visible while a product builds towards three critics for a COR Score.

Your reading library

Headphone buying guides

Understand the features and specifications you see in headphone reviews. Read the complete guide or explore a focused topic.

Read the complete buying guide Back to the results ↑
Focused guide

Over-ear vs on-ear headphones: comfort, sound and portability

Over-ear cups surround the ear; on-ear pads rest on it. That simple difference affects comfort, isolation and packed size, but headband force, pad material and individual anatomy often matter more than the label.

Explore the guide →
Focused guide

Noise cancelling vs passive isolation in headphones

Separate the physical seal from active processing when choosing headphones for travel, work or awareness.

Explore the guide →
Focused guide

Bluetooth headphone codecs and latency explained

Check what both source and headphones support, then prioritise stable playback and real video or game synchronisation.

Explore the guide →
Focused guide

Gaming headset vs headphones and separate microphone

Choose between integrated convenience and component flexibility based on platform, chat, latency and desk space.

Explore the guide →
Learn here, then put it into practice with the six-step checklist below.All headphone advice →

Your six-step checklist

How to choose the right headphones

Find the best fit for your priorities, your setup and your budget.

Turn expert headphone reviews into a shortlist with these six practical checks.

01

Choose fit for use

Choose in-ear, on-ear or over-ear based on actual comfort and use.

Your decision Suitable wearing style.

02

Check call-quality evidence

Check microphone reviews for the places where you make calls.

Your decision Relevant call evidence.

03

Confirm Bluetooth source support

Confirm source-device support for any advertised Bluetooth feature.

Your decision Confirmed source support.

04

Compare tested battery results

Compare battery results with noise control enabled at ordinary volume.

Your decision Comparable battery results.

05

Price replacement accessories

Check prices and availability for pads, tips, cable and charging case.

Your decision Priced replacement parts.

06

Review app and account terms

Read the app permissions, update policy and account requirement.

Your decision Understood software terms.

Ready to build your shortlist? Use these checks to narrow the results, then read the evidence for each exact model.

Make it work for you

Plan comfort and listening

Turn your everyday needs into a practical setup. Record these details before comparing your final shortlist.

Picture it in everyday use

  1. Try the wearing style with glasses, movement and a normal listening session.
  2. Compare call tests in settings similar to where you regularly speak.
  3. Check charging, wired fallback and replacement parts before purchase.
Explore the complete setup guide →
Your headphone planning notes
RequirementWhat to record or check
Fit and usePressure, seal, glasses, movement and session length
Call settingPhone, computer, software, background noise and microphone evidence
Source devicesBluetooth features, codecs, wired inputs and cable requirements
OwnershipBattery tests, pads, tips, cable, case, app and updates

Use the exact model’s manual and manufacturer specifications to confirm measurements, connections and supported features.

Keep your priorities together. A short set of notes makes it easier to compare complete offers and discuss your requirements with a retailer or installer.

Repair and battery life

Quoted battery life may depend on volume, codec and noise-control mode. Treat it as a comparison clue, then read measured review results. Case charging, cable type and fast-charge behaviour affect whether the product works for your routine.

Practical check Check pads, tips, cables and batteries before purchase. Consumable parts extend a product life when the maker sells them, while sealed construction can make a small worn part end the useful life of otherwise good headphones.

Explore this in the buying guide →

Codec, calls and switching

Codec names can matter only when the phone or computer and the headphones support the same mode. Confirm multipoint behaviour with the actual pair of devices; some products reduce features or change call handling when two sources are connected.

Practical check For calls, find reviews with indoor, street and wind tests. Microphone count, beamforming labels and a quiet demo do not show whether a caller can understand you beside traffic.

Explore this in the buying guide →

Hearing health and isolation

Better isolation can let you listen more quietly in noisy places, but it should not remove awareness where that matters. Choose a mode you can operate reliably on the move.

Practical check Take listening breaks and use a comfortable level. A product that encourages you to raise volume to overcome poor fit is a poor match for a long commute.

Explore this in the buying guide →

Compare with a purpose

Find the right headphones for the way you use them

Choose your main priority, then compare the evidence that matters most for your setup.

Your main useWhat to look forWhat to weigh up
Commute and travelSecure fit, noise control, case size and battery routineStrong isolation can reduce awareness of surroundings.
Desk callsMicrophone quality, sidetone, multipoint behaviour and comfortA good music sound does not guarantee clear voice calls.
Home listeningComfort, cable options and sound signatureOpen-backed designs leak sound and admit room noise.
  1. 01

    Compare the complete cost

    Include the product, delivery, required accessories and any setup or installation. Check relevant consumables, subscriptions and replacement parts over the period you expect to own it.

  2. 02

    Prioritise everyday features

    Use your planning notes to identify essential functions and connections. Confirm them for the exact model and configuration, then weigh optional features against the difference in price.

  3. 03

    Read beyond the average

    Read the original critics’ findings for your priorities. Check the date and tested version, then compare the evidence alongside the COR Score and number of distinct critics.

  4. 04

    Match the complete offer

    Check the manufacturer code, generation, configuration, condition and included items. Confirm stock, delivered price, returns and warranty terms with the retailer before ordering.

Open the specifications glossary · Compare expert reviews · Check the model and offer

Independent reviews, made comparable

What does the COR Score mean?

One consistent scale makes different publishers’ ratings easier to compare. The original review explains why a critic reached that verdict.

Read our scoring methodology →

Scale conversion · example

8/ 104.00/ 5

An illustration of conversion, not a rating for a listed product.

  1. 01

    Check the match

    Identify the exact product and the version reviewed. Check model codes, configuration and the included package.

  2. 02

    Compare on one scale

    Convert eligible ratings to five points, count each publisher once and give every critic equal weight.

  3. 03

    Require three critics

    Show the average to two decimal places after three distinct critics. Otherwise show tbd while keeping individual reviews visible.

Read the score alongside the critic count, review dates, tested version and strengths that matter to you. Linked reviews of related hardware remain separate from the selected product’s score.

Explore the catalogue

A growing choice to discover

Compare the recorded models, explore different configurations and follow the available expert reviews. Use each product page for its latest evidence and retailer links.

Return to the results ↑
Listed model options
4051
Options with critic ratings
802
Brands to explore
124

Explore your options

Browse brands and features

Follow a manufacturer or a selection based on recorded product features.

Your questions, answered

Headphone buying FAQ

Ten answers to help you make an informed choice.

01What does ANC remove?

It can reduce certain background sounds, especially when fit is good, but it will not remove every sound. Judge it for your environment.

02Will Bluetooth version tell me every feature?

No. Features depend on profiles and implementation in both devices. Check manufacturer support information for the exact pairing.

03Are open-backed headphones suitable for commuting?

Usually no. They let outside sound in and leak your audio, which may suit quiet home listening but not shared or noisy spaces.

04How do I choose the best headphones for my needs?

Start with your main use, practical setup and total budget. The comparison table above identifies useful features for different priorities. Use the category filters, then check exact-model specifications and the original reviews for your shortlist.

05What does the COR Score tell me?

It summarises eligible independent critic ratings on a five-point scale, with one equally weighted rating per publisher. The displayed average has two decimal places. Open the original reviews to see how the findings relate to your priorities.

06Why do some products display tbd?

A public COR Score becomes available after three distinct critics. Until then, tbd indicates that review coverage is still building; available individual reviews remain visible. It is different from a zero rating.

07Does a review cover every version or accessory bundle?

Check the version actually reviewed. Confirmed equivalent colour, storage or accessory variants can share model-level reviews with a tested-version label. Related hardware, different generations and other distinct editions are shown separately and do not contribute to the selected product’s score.

08How can I filter the headphones?

Filters use the recorded specifications for each model or option. Choose a brand or feature, then apply your filters to narrow the results. Missing information is not treated as confirmed feature support. Open the product page to check the full specification.

09What should I check when comparing retailer offers?

Match the complete manufacturer code, configuration, condition and included items. Add delivery and necessary accessories to compare the total cost, and confirm stock, warranty and returns details with the retailer.

10How should I use older reviews or previous-generation models?

Check the review date, tested version and current manufacturer support. Compare the features you need, replacement parts or consumables where relevant, and the complete offer. A useful older review can still explain a model well, while availability and services may have changed.

Related categories

Explore the rest of your setup

Compare complementary products and other ways to meet your needs.

Speaker reviews

Explore models, review evidence and buying advice.

Mobile phone reviews

Explore models, review evidence and buying advice.

Specifications, explained

Headphone glossary

Understand the terms, then use the buying checks to compare exact models.

Fit and isolation4 terms
Open-back headphones

Headphones whose ear-cup design allows sound to pass between the driver area and surrounding air.

Buying check Consider sound leakage and the room in which you will listen.

Closed-back headphones

Headphones with enclosed ear cups designed to limit sound escaping and entering.

Buying check Read about fit, isolation and comfort during longer sessions.

Passive isolation

The reduction of outside sound provided by fit, seals and physical construction.

Buying check Check comfort and seal as well as noise-reduction impressions.

Active noise cancellation (ANC)

Microphones and processing generate a signal intended to reduce incoming noise.

Buying check Compare independent results for the types of noise you encounter.

Listening and calls4 terms
Frequency response

A description of output level across a range of frequencies under stated conditions.

Buying check Read how the reviewer measured it and how it relates to listening impressions.

Microphone array

Multiple microphones used together for capture or processing.

Buying check Look for call or voice-recognition tests in realistic background noise.

Latency

The delay between an input or event and its audible or visible result.

Buying check Look for tests that match gaming, video, calls or other intended use.

Audio codec

A method of encoding and decoding an audio signal for transmission or storage.

Buying check The source and receiving device must support the intended codec.

Connections and ownership4 terms
Bluetooth

A short-range wireless connection used by compatible devices for audio or data.

Buying check Check the specific profiles and features supported at both ends.

Bluetooth multipoint

A feature that lets compatible headphones maintain connections with more than one source.

Buying check Check the number of devices and how calls and playback switch.

USB audio

Digital audio transferred through a compatible USB connection.

Buying check Check operating-system support and whether the port actually accepts audio.

Battery cycle life

An estimate of battery use over repeated charge-and-discharge cycles under stated conditions.

Buying check Compare the maker’s conditions, service options and warranty terms.

Technical sources and further reading · Check the exact model’s manufacturer documentation for supported features.