Best Headphones for 2022 – CNET [CNET]

Is there a market more saturated than headphones? We don’t know for sure, but we do know that there are a lot of options out there for someone looking to enjoy their music, audiobooks or podcasts on the go. When we rate headphones, we tend to focus on wireless headphones and true wireless in particular — yes, Apple’s AirPods have been insanely popular over the past several years. But this list of best headphones also includes on-ear models, over-ear headphones and even some inexpensive headphones as “budget” standouts for people who don’t want to drop a ton of cash to get optimal comfort and great sound.

These are our current favorites for the “best headphones” designation (with waterproofing ratings included for earbuds). Note that we’re still seeing plenty of new models arrive, many of which we noted in our best headphones of CES 2022 roundup. We’ll update this list regularly as we test out those new models.

Read more: Best true wireless earbuds of 2022

(Watch this: Beats Fit Pro are the sports AirPods you’ve always wanted).

Best open earbuds

Apple AirPods 3rd Generation

David Carnoy/CNET

Take one look at the new design of the third-gen AirPods ($179), and the first thing you’ll probably think is: “Those look like the AirPods Pro without ear tips.” You wouldn’t be wrong. While they’re more fraternal than identical twins, the AirPods 3 are shaped like the AirPods Pro, with the same shorter stems and same pinch controls as those of the Pro. Aside from the design change, which should fit most ears better than the AirPods 2nd Generation (though not very small ears), the biggest change is to the sound quality: It’s much improved. Also, battery life is better, and the AirPods 3 are officially water-resistant.  

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