When it comes to travelling, one of the accessories that has become a must-have, are headphones. Irrespective of whether you choose wired or wireless kind, it has now become something indispensable and now that headphones come in all shapes and sizes, we must choose the right one to carry with us on our holidays. In this article, we will walk you through, what we believe, are the best headphone options, tailored to be carried when travelling. These options possess a good blend of design, features, and performance, and you can choose among these, if you are in the market for the perfect pair of headpones.
Number 1. Sony WH-1000XM4
Alright, so let’s talk about the Sony WH-1000 series – those headphones are like the cool kids in school who keep getting better. The 2020 XM4s are like the older sibling who still knows how to throw a party, even with the newer WH-1000XM5 headphones around. These OG cans pack a punch with awesome noise cancellation and a sweet audio balance, all wrapped up in a feather-light package. Sure, you could jump on the latest hype train, but the XM4s are like that classic band you just can’t quit.
Now, if you’re a jet-setter or just love your peace and quiet, these headphones are your jam. The noise cancellation is like magic – take them off mid-flight, and suddenly the airplane engine sounds like a rock concert. Thanks, Sony’s QNe1 Processor for being the real MVP, always tuning in to your surroundings. It’s not just about kicking out annoying sounds; the cushy pleather cups make these headphones your cozy travel buddies, even on those marathon journeys. No wonder the Sony WH-1000XM4s snag our top spot for the ultimate travel headphones.
Enter the WH-1000XM5, the new kid on the block. But hold up – the XM4s still steal the show with their slick folding design and a price that won’t give your wallet a heart attack.
Number 2. Sony WH-CH720N
Sony’s budget-friendly alternative to its flagship ‘XM’ model is a steal, clocking in at under $150/£100. Despite the lower price tag, these headphones deliver an impressive audio experience, especially when it comes to detail and balance. Picture this: crisp instruments, a treble that shines, bass doing its thing, and a warm and full mid-range – it’s like a symphony for your ears.
Now, let’s talk noise cancellation. It’s a game-changer for tuning out the world, making movie dialogues crystal clear even on a noisy plane. Sure, there’s a bit more sound leakage compared to the fancier options out there, both in over-ear headphones and earbuds, but for the price, it’s on par with the best from brands like JBL.
These headphones are feather-light and surprisingly comfy for those marathon listening sessions, even though they don’t fold up. They might not have that premium feel, but hey, that’s a compromise we’re willing to make. Plus, the wired option is a godsend for in-flight entertainment, and that quoted 35-hour battery life? Spot on, based on our real-world testing.
Number 3. Apple Airpods Pro 2
If you’re into the whole Apple vibe, get ready for a seriously convenient experience, plus a sound quality and noise cancellation combo that can go toe-to-toe with the big players. It’s like they’ve unlocked a whole new audio world that previous AirPods only dreamed about – we’re talking layers of sound that hit you right in the feels. Vocals, bass, and even individual instruments take center stage, each getting their moment to shine.
And can we take a moment for that killer ANC? It’s like they’re in a tight race with Bose, making background noise a distant memory. They’re not heavyweights either – lighter and with a smaller case compared to the competition. Oh, and don’t stress if you misplace them – Apple’s got your back with the Find My feature, saving you from those “Where did I leave my AirPods?” moments. These aren’t just travel buddies; they’re like your audio sidekicks.
But wait, there’s more – Spatial Audio. Use these bad boys with your iPhone or iPad for movie time, and suddenly, you’re in a cinema, surrounded by speakers, not just having sound pumped straight into your ears. It’s like a breath of fresh air when you’re on the move, giving you a taste of freedom and a seriously immersive experience.
