Apple’s newly announced iPad Pro models cost over $3,000 when fully configured with all available options and accessories, making it the priciest iPad to date.
The cost breakdown for the top-specification iPad Pro is as follows:
13-inch iPad Pro (starting price): $1,299
2TB storage: +$1,000
Nano-texture glass option: +$100
Wi-Fi + Cellular: +$200
Apple Pencil Pro: $129
Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro (13-inch model): $349
The maxed-out iPad Pro costs $2,599, but with the Apple Pencil Pro and the Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro, it comes to a total of $3,077 – a new high for the iPad.
Apple’s “Let Loose” event kicks off today at the unusual time of 7:00 a.m. Pacific Time, and we’re expecting to see an iPad-focused event with new iPad Pro and iPad Air models, updated Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard accessories, and perhaps some other announcements. Apple is providing a live video stream on its website, on YouTube, and in the company’s TV app across various platforms. We…
Apple today unveiled redesigned iPad Pro models featuring the M4 chip, Ultra Retina XDR OLED displays, a nano-texture display option, and more. The new iPad Pro offers a considerably thinner design and slightly larger 11- and 13-inch display size options. The 11-inch model is 5.3mm thick and weighs less than a pound, while the 13-inch model is just 5.1mm thick and weighs a quarter pound less …
Apple today announced that iOS 17.5 will be released to the public “soon,” following over a month of beta testing. While the software update is relatively minor, it does have a few new features and changes, as outlined in the list below. “The new Pride Radiance watch face and iPhone and iPad wallpapers will be available soon with watchOS 10.5, iOS 17.5, and iPadOS 17.5,” said Apple, in its…
Apple at its “Let Loose” event today announced a new Magic Keyboard for the latest iPad Pro models, with a thinner, lighter design. Apple says the Magic Keyboard has been redesigned to be thinner and lighter, while maintaing the same floating design. Two colors are available that match the new iPad Pro. New features include a function row with screen brightness controls, an aluminum…
Apple will be holding its first event of the year this Tuesday, May 7 at 7 a.m. Pacific Time, with a live stream to be available on Apple.com and on YouTube. How long will the event be? In his newsletter today, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman said the video will have a runtime of “around 35 minutes.” Apple is expected to announce new iPad Pro and iPad Air models, along with updated Apple Pencil…
While the iPhone 16 series is still months away from launching, an early rumor about an all-new iPhone 17 model has now surfaced. In a research note with investment firm Haitong this week, analyst Jeff Pu said Apple is planning a so-called “iPhone 17 Slim” model that would replace the Plus model in the lineup. Pu said this model will feature around a 6.6-inch display, a slimmer design, an…
Apple today held the first event of 2024, debuting new iPad Air and iPad Pro models and accompanying accessories. While the event was faster than normal and took 40 minutes, we’ve condensed it down even further for those who want a quick overview of everything that was announced. Subscribe to the MacRumors YouTube channel for more videos. We’ve also got a full recap of all of the coverage…
A rash of recent hot deals on HDTVs, even two-for-one TV deals, might have you facing a dilemma that has been with us since the era of flatscreens began: Where are you gonna mount that thing?
Of course, mounting is not for everyone. All HDTV sets come with a stand or legs to prop up the set on an entertainment cabinet or any other flat surface. If you don’t care to have your set on a wall, in a setup that can be moved around, or in some newer variation on wall mounting, a stand-up approach is perfectly fine.
But if you really want to get that set off its feet, you might be surprised with some newer options that have emerged since the last time you did this.
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How to Approach Wall Mounting
The wide world of wall mounts starts with the assumption that your new television conforms to the VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association) guidelines for where threaded holes are on the back of your TV or monitor. Makers of TV mounts account for these measurements when they tell you what size of television they’ll accommodate (say, a mount that works for HDTVs between 37 and 70 inches).
Photograph: slexp880/Getty Images
A standard wall mount is a metal bracket that attaches securely to a wall’s studs, paired with hooked rails that are bolted onto the TV itself. Once everything is installed, the TV with the rails attached slides onto the bracket, and you’ve got a mounted TV. Variations of this include brackets that can extend outward, swivel left and right, and tilt up and down, allowing for more viewing angles and flexibility. If you’ve only ever used basic TV mounts, you might be delighted by how useful it is to be able to move your giant TV around to avoid glare during certain times of the day, or to pull it out toward you for a closer view in a large room.
Some wall mounts can also be adjusted by remote control. Motorized mounts like Vivo’s electric mount can extend your TV outward from the wall with the push of a button. MantelMount’s MM815 can go up and down via remote, offering 26 inches of height adjustment. Bear in mind: These motorized mounts require a power outlet to function.
If you’re trying to place a TV in a space that’s not a flat surface, there are corner TV mounts available as well. For HDTVs mounted above a fireplace, so-called “pull-down” mounts that can be lowered when the fireplace isn’t in use are another option.
Everybody makes mistakes, but some mistakes are more serious than others – and when you’re running one of the best streaming services, mistakes such as missing episodes, terrible translations and incorrect titles can be a real problem for your subscribers. According to leaked internal documents seen by Business Insider (via Quartz), some of the errors in Prime Video‘s catalog are so bad that some viewers have been ditching shows entirely.
The documents suggest that at least some of the massive amounts of money Amazon has invested in Prime Video have been undermined by serious catalog errors, and those errors are leading to a very high volume of customer complaints. Some 60% of all content-related customer experience complains last year were about catalog errors, BI reports.
Amazon’s on the Prime Video catalog case
The level of complaints is being taken very seriously by Amazon, which is launching a new program with the target of reducing such complaints by 15,000 per year. The top issues complained about were incomplete or inconsistent titling, and what the documents call “season integrity” problems. That’s when you’re streaming a show only to discover that there are missing episodes, inconsistent playback options or wrongly labeled content. Last year, BI says, Amazon received over 10,000 “customer friction records” related to such issues.
Some of the issues identified in the documents include:
Making episode 2 of The Rings of Power available before episode 1;
losing the Spanish audio from Die Hard With A Vengeance;
translation errors in character names;
incorrect age restrictions in some shows such as Continuum
And many customers took their complaints to other places, such as forums and Reddit. It’s likely that many such customers didn’t complain directly to Amazon, so the number of errors could be higher than the leaked documents report.
The most likely explanation for this is human error: any classification system with lots of data has the scope for problems, especially if your content is coming from lots of different places and in multiple languages. But while such errors are understandable they can also be expensive: the documents suggest that wrongly localized content could lead to 20% drop-offs in engagement. With the streaming landscape more competitive than ever, Amazon is keen to ensure that the best Prime Video movies and best Prime Videos shows can a) actually be found, and b) are watched all the way through.
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An audio interface serves as a bridge between your Mac and external audio sources like microphones and musical instruments. The hardware is essential for great sound reproduction, whether you’re a professional producer or a beginner. So finding the best audio interface for your Mac can significantly enhance your recording and mixing experience.
In this guide, we’ll explore top audio interfaces available for Mac, including several affordable options. We’ll discuss their features, performance, compatibility and price points to help you make an informed decision.
This post contains affiliate links. Cult of Mac may earn a commission when you use our links to buy items.
Best audio interface for Mac: Who needs one?
First, do Macs need an audio interface? For the most part, yes, but it depends on what you’re doing. An audio interface connects audio equipment to your Mac. And it converts analog audio signals from various sources into digital signals you can alter and record using digital audio workstation, aka DAW, software installed on your computer. The interface often handles digital-to-analog conversion, aka DAC, too, allowing you to listen through headphones or speakers.
Second, do audio interfaces work with Macs? Yes, most are designed to work easily and integrate beautifully with your computer. They typically connect to a computer via Thunderbolt/USB and work with both Macs and PCs. All audio interfaces in our selection connect that way. We reserved the most portable of them for use with MacBook Air and MacBook Pro.
Third, what is the best sound quality audio interface? Well, that’s a matter of opinion. Every product we feature below is capable of excellent sound quality, and you can enhance it with included software or popular programs you might buy separately, like GarageBand or Logic Pro, both from Apple.
Keep in mind that if you work with software-based instrumentation and a USB or 3.5mm-jack microphone, you don’t necessarily need an audio interface for your Mac. But for pro-level XLR mics and instruments with 1/4-inch line-level outputs, you do. And in any case, an audio interface can improve vocal clarity, reduce latency and offer more control over audio inputs and outputs.
Table of contents: Best audio interfaces for Mac
Factors to consider when choosing an audio interface for Mac:
Inputs/outputs: How many inputs and outputs do you need? Will a two-input audio interface for you and your guitar suffice? Or do you need more for your band?
Connectivity: Ensure that the interface you choose works with your Mac’s available ports.
Compatibility: Make sure the interface is compatible with your specific Mac model, as well as the version of macOS you are running and your preferred DAW software.
Portability: Recording on the go and recording in a dedicated studio call for different audio interfaces. Some are extremely portable but others aren’t.
Microphone type: Condenser microphones require phantom power (+48V or +24V options). So if you use, or plan to use, one a condenser mic, be sure to buy an audio interface with phantom power.
Quality: Look for high-resolution audio, such as 24-bit/192kHz conversion, and high preamp quality (check the reviews).
Software: Some audio interfaces for Mac come with software bundles that drive up the price. If that’s the case, make sure you want or need the software before you pay extra.
Best audio interface for Mac (top pick): Universal Audio Apollo Twin X Quad
It’s not cheap, but the Apollo Twin X Quad is an excellent audio interface for Mac users. Photo: Universal Audio
The Universal Audio Apollo Twin X Quad is our top recommendation for Mac users seeking a highly capable and professional audio interface. This audio interface combines a compact form factor, high-end audio quality, flexible input/output options and powerful onboard digital signal-processing capabilities.
The interface features a small footprint and an attractive design. And its control and input/output schemes are intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy to use.
Plus, the Apollo Twin X Quad comes with different software bundles for macOS and iOS as well as PC, depending on where you buy it. The interface includes Universal Audio’s Mac-only Luna DAW software and a bundle of plugins, including compressors, EQs, reverbs and guitar amp emulators to help you achieve various pro audio sounds.
Lots of inputs and outputs
The rear of the Apollo Twin X Quad offers a wide array of inputs and outputs. Photo: Universal Audio
On the back of the unit, you’ll find two combo mic pre/line-level inputs, two sets of 1/4-inch monitor outputs, a power supply input, a Thunderbolt 3 port, an optical input for connecting audio equipment with ADAT or S/PDIF outputs, and a power switch.
The device’s controls and LED indicators are conveniently located on the top panel. With just eight buttons and a wheel, you can control all the input and monitor-related parameters. The interface allows you to easily switch between monitors/headphones and different sources connected to the Twin X Quad.
A quad-core DSP chip for running audio plugins
The Apollo Twin X Quad comes equipped with a built-in quad-core digital signal processing, or DSP, chip, that enables you to run UAD plugins in real time with ultralow latency. The included Console software handles real-time UAD processing and can be routed to any DAW software.
With an impressive D/A dynamic range of 127dB and the lowest noise (-117 dB THD+N) among desktop audio interfaces, the Apollo Twin X Quad delivers organic and spacious sound on par with top-of-the-line professional interfaces used in recording studios.
The optical input allows for stereo S/PDIF operation or connection to gear with ADAT OUT, expanding the number of available input channels to 10 (2 + 8 ADAT).
The Thunderbolt 3 connection ensures lightning-fast processing and minimal latency. It also allows for daisy-chaining up to six UAD-2 devices or four Apollo devices.
Minor negative note: A Thunderbolt 3 cable is not included in the package.
The Apollo Twin Quad usually goes for between $1,100 and $1,500. Looking for a great alternative for a few hundred dollars less? Check out Universal Audio’s Apollo Twin X Duo, below.
Best audio interface for Mac under $1,000 (top options)
1. Universal Audio Apollo Twin X Duo
This is the smaller sibling of our top pick, and an excellent choice that costs less than $1,000. Photo: Universal Audio
When it comes to Thunderbolt and USB-connected audio interfaces, there are many excellent options for less than $1,000. One of those is the little sibling of our top pick above. It’s the Universal Audio Apollo Twin X Duo. With dual rather than quad DSP chips, this one can run fewer plugins than the Quad.
Like the Quad, the Duo features A/D and D/A conversion derived from Apollo X rackmount interfaces paired with Unison mic preamps for classic mic and guitar amp sounds. And it runs the Luna recording software,made for Apollo (Mac only) and UAD powered plug-ins.
The front panel includes Unison-enabled Hi-Z instrument input, headphone out and a built-in talkback mic for communication in the studio. Dedicated monitor functionality includes monitor remote functions and mono, mute, DIM, and ALT monitor controls. And you can access up to eight channels of additional digital input via optical ADAT/SPDIF inputs.
Focusrite Scarlett audio interfaces are great for more budget-minded Mac users. Photo: Focusrite
The fourth-gen Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 audio interface is another popular audio interface for Mac users, offering a great balance of features, performance and affordability. It features USB-C rather than Thunderbolt connectivity and costs about $280.
With two upgraded Scarlett mic preamps, low latency and high-quality converters, the Scarlett 4i4 is a versatile interface that can handle a wide range of recording and production tasks. It’s great for both beginners and experienced producers.
The Scarlett 4i4 offers 24-bit/192kHz converters for high-resolution audio, optimized preamp gain structure, low latency and Hi-Z instrument inputs.
The mic preamps on the Scarlett 4i4 include Focusrite’s “Air” mode, which adds a touch of analog tonality modeled on the company’s legendary ISA console transformers. This feature enhances the high-end frequencies and adds a sense of depth and richness to your recordings. The Air mode can be switched on or off, allowing you to customize the effect based on the source and desired sound.
The interface’s USB-C connectivity allows for direct connection to your Mac without the need for a dongle. It also comes bundled with software, including the Studio One Artist DAW and the Studio Magic Plugin Suite, featuring plugins from renowned manufacturers like Maag Audio, Lexicon, and Arturia.
The Scarlett 4i4 is compact and portable, making it a great option for musicians who need a versatile interface for on-the-go recording or small studio setups.
The Scarlett 4i4 is not Thunderbolt 3 compatible, which may be a drawback for users seeking the fastest data-transfer speeds and lowest latency. However, the USB-C connection still provides reliable performance for most recording and production needs.
You can grab Focusrite’s excellent fourth-gen Scarlett 4i4 for just $279.99 (or go with the third-gen model for $199.99).
Simple USB-C connectivity makes many audio interfaces easy to use. Photo: Audient
Any of the choices above, like the Focusrite Scarlett interface, are great for USB-C connectivity. But another exceptional choice would be the Audient iD4 MK II two-in, two-out audio interface. USB-C-specific interfaces won’t transfer data as fast as Thunderbolt, but they’re often less expensive and they generally work with both Macs and PCs.
Audient’s entry is a compact, feature-rich audio interface that offers excellent sound quality and user-friendly controls. With its streamlined design and professional-grade performance, it is an ideal choice for Mac users seeking a high-quality interface for recording vocals, instruments and podcasts.
The iD4 MK II features a single Class-A Audient console mic preamp, providing clean and transparent amplification for microphones. It also offers a discrete JFET DI input for connecting guitars, basses or other instruments directly.
The interface supports 24-bit/96kHz audio resolution, ensuring accurate and detailed recordings. It features high-quality converters and analog circuitry for pristine sound reproduction.
The iD4 MK II includes a large volume knob that doubles as an intuitive monitor control. It also offers a dedicated headphone output with independent volume control, allowing for convenient and easy monitoring. The interface comes bundled with a comprehensive software package.
You can pick up the Audient iD4 MK II for $194 (and if you need to connect more gear, you can try a bigger version for $399).
This is a solid choice for a USB audio interface. Photo: PreSonus
For Mac users on a budget, the PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is an excellent entry-level audio interface. Despite its affordable price, it offers impressive features, including two upgraded Scarlett mic preamps, 24-bit/192kHz converters and optimized preamp gain structure.
The AudioBox USB 96 comes in an attractive package and includes a USB-A to USB-B cable, a user manual, a warranty card and PreSonus Studio One Artist software. This software bundle also includes the Studio One Magic software, which features Ableton Live Lite, virtual instruments, and nine plugins.
The interface features a sturdy metal housing and comes in two colors: black and blue/silver. Its front panel offers two combo mic pre/line-level inputs that accept XLR and 1/4-inch connectors. It also includes gain dials for each input with LED indicators, headphone volume dial, monitor volume dial and an input/playback mixer dial. The front panel also features a 48V phantom power button for condenser microphones.
On the back of the interface, you’ll find a headphone output, a set of line-level monitor outputs, 5-pin MIDI in/out ports and a USB Type-B port for connecting to your computer. The AudioBox USB 96 is one of the rare audio interfaces that allow you to connect your MIDI controller or instrument directly, making it a great choice for those needing MIDI capabilities on a limited budget. The device’s maximum conversion rate is 24-bit/96kHz.
Universal Audio’s Volt 2 USB audio interface is suitable for professionals. Photo: Universal Audio
The Universal Audio Volt 2 USB audio interface is a versatile and high-quality audio interface designed for Mac and PC users. (It works with iPad and iPhone, too.) It offers two inputs and two outputs, premium audio quality and seamless integration with Universal Audio’s DSP plugins.
The Volt 2 also comes with a studio-quality headphone amp, MIDI connections, 48V phantom power and direct monitoring for latency-free recording.
The interface offers 24-bit/192kHz audio resolution, delivering exceptional sound quality and detail. It features high-quality converters and premium analog circuitry for transparent and accurate audio reproduction.
Universal Audio’s Volt 2 USB audio interface is designed to work seamlessly with the company’s DSP plugins. It includes the UAD-2 DUO Core processing, allowing you to run UAD plugins in real time with low latency.
Best audio interface for M1 Mac mini and other desktop Macs (top options)
1. Native Instruments Komplete Audio 6 Mk2
This robust audio interface is great for M1 Mac mini (or any Mac). Photo: Native Instruments
The Native Instruments Komplete Audio 6 Mk2 is a feature-packed audio interface designed for professional producers and musicians. It offers exceptional sound quality, versatile connectivity options, and a comprehensive software bundle, making it a top contender for Mac users seeking a high-end interface.
The Komplete Audio 6 Mk2 features six inputs and six outputs, providing a wide range of connectivity options. It includes two combo XLR/1/4-inch inputs with switchable phantom power, two 1/4-inch line inputs, four 1/4-inch line outputs, a headphone output, MIDI I/O, and a USB 2.0 connection. This extensive connectivity makes it suitable for recording bands, multi-instrument setups and complex studio configurations.
The interface offers 24-bit/192kHz audio resolution, ensuring pristine sound quality for your recordings. It features premium Cirrus Logic converters, delivering exceptional detail and dynamic range.
Native Instruments includes a comprehensive software bundle with the Komplete Audio 6 Mk2. This bundle includes a full version of Komplete Start, a collection of high-quality virtual instruments, effects and samples. It also includes Maschine Essentials, Ableton Live Lite and Traktor LE, providing you with a wide range of tools and sounds to inspire your creativity.
You can pick up this audio interface on Amazon for $249 $179.
The MOTU M4 is a solid choice for an M1, M2 or M3 Mac. Photo: MOTU
The MOTU M4 audio interface works well with Apple silicon-powered machines with M-series chips. The M4 provides fast speed for monitoring live inputs (mic, guitar or keyboard) through your computer, thanks to MOTU’s expertly engineered USB drivers, which deliver class-leading, ultra-low 2.5 ms Round Trip Latency (at 96 kHz with a 32 sample buffer), the company noted.
The four-channel interface includes metering for recording live music (which not every interface has). At this price you don’t find many interfaces with a full color LCD featuring detailed level meters for all inputs and outputs.
Quiet preamps add to the interface’s overall quality. And you can use the M4 as a stand-alone mixer.
The interface’s driver provides loopback channels to your host computer, so you can route computer output back to the computer. At that point you can mix it with live mics and/or guitar inputs from the M4 in your host software for live streaming or podcasting.
Performer Lite or Live Lite production software is included, along with hundreds of loops, one-shots and sounds from Big Fish Audio, Lucidsamples and Loopmasters.
Best audio interface for MacBook Air and MacBook Pro (top options)
1. IK Multimedia iRig HD 2
If you’re a guitar or bass player, iRig could be your portable audio interface. Photo: IK Multimedia
What audio interface works with Macbook Air? Like all of the audio interfaces featured here, IK Multimedia’s iRig HD 2 and the Behringer interface below work well with MacBook Air and MacBook Pro.
The big difference between iRig and the Behringer interface, though, is that iRig is instrument-specific. With so many guitar players in the world, we thought we’d include it. The compact and portable audio interface is designed specifically for guitarists and bassists using Macs or iOS devices. It offers high-quality sound, convenient features and compatibility with popular guitar apps.
iRig HD 2 fits easily in your pocket or guitar case. It features a 1/4-inch instrument input, a 1/4-inch output for connecting to an amplifier or headphones, and a Lightning/USB cable for connecting to your Mac or iOS device. This simplicity and portability make it a go-to choice for guitarists and bassists who require a streamlined setup without sacrificing sound quality.
The interface provides 24-bit/96kHz high-resolution audio, ensuring accurate and detailed recordings. It also features a built-in preamp with adjustable gain control, allowing you to dial in the perfect input level for your instrument.
The iRig HD 2 includes a headphone output with a dedicated volume control, enabling you to monitor your playing without latency. This feature proves particularly useful for practicing or recording on the go.
The interface is compatible with popular guitar apps and software. IK Multimedia’s AmpliTube, for example, provides access to a vast array of virtual amplifiers, effects and cabinets so you can explore different tones.
The iRig HD 2 is bus-powered, meaning it draws power from your Mac or iOS device, eliminating the need for batteries or an external power source. This feature enhances its portability and convenience.
iRig HD 2 costs $99.99. Want a bit more? Try iRig HD X for $129.99 (and for that you get higher-quality recording, a bigger software bundle and more device compatibility).
This affordable audio interface could suit M1 Mac mini users quite well. Photo: Behringer
The Behringer U-Phoria UM2 is a budget-friendly audio interface that offers solid performance and essential features for Mac users. It’s great for beginners, and it’s the least expensive item on this list.
The U-Phoria UM2 features a compact and lightweight design, making it highly portable and suitable for on-the-go recording or small studio setups. It offers a single XLR/TRS combo input, a 1/4-inch instrument input and RCA line outputs.
The interface provides 48V phantom power for condenser microphones and includes a dedicated headphone output for monitoring. It offers 16-bit/48kHz audio resolution, which is sufficient for most entry-level recording and production needs.
The interface is compatible with popular DAW software and works seamlessly with Mac systems. It also comes bundled with Tracktion DAW software, providing a solid platform for recording, editing and mixing your music.
The U-PhoriaUM2 offers limited input and output options, which may not be sufficient for more advanced recording and production requirements. However, for beginners or those with basic recording needs, it provides a cost-effective solution.
It’s currently available for just $59 from Amazon.
Nothing is official yet, but if we had to make an educated guess, we’d say the Google Pixel 8a is going to be unveiled on the first day of Google I/O 2024, which is May 14. Now two new leaks have given us more of an idea about what to expect from the handset.
To begin with we’ve got leaked renders of the Pixel 8a courtesy of Android Headlines. There are four colors on show here, apparently called Mint, Porcelain, Obsidian, and Bay (or light green, pale gray, dark gray, and light blue, as they’re otherwise known).
These colors are similar to the ones we saw for the Google Pixel 7a, though Mint appears to have replaced Coral (orange). Mint is an option on the Pixel 8 and the Pixel 8 Pro, though here it looks a lot more garish – which might just be due to the way the image is edited.
As Android Headlines points out, we also got a paler Mint color with the Google Pixel 6a in 2022, so this wouldn’t be a first for the mid-range series. We noticed that the Pixel 6a was recently removed from sale on the Google Store, leaving space for the Pixel 8a.
A design for life
This could be the Pixel 8a (Image credit: Android Headlines)
The renders we can see here back up previous leaks: the design is similar to the Pixel 8 and indeed the Pixel 7a. It’s possible that the corners are going to be slightly more curved, but there’s not a lot in it, and this is a phone that still looks very much like a Pixel.
Google may have already revealed the Pixel 8a design in an advert for Google Fi Wireless, and the picture in that ad does match the renders from Android Headlines. The colors seem plausible too – provided that green gets toned down a bit.
Elsewhere in Pixel 8a leak news, serial tipster Evan Blass has spotted some Pixel 8a tutorials have gone live on the website of a US carrier – not ideal from Google’s perspective. How long they remain up remains to be seen.
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Another potential upgrade we’ve heard about is a bump to a 120Hz screen, though the Tensor G3 chip may be underclocked to keep the phone below the Pixel 8 in terms of performance. In around a month’s time, all should be revealed.
Over-ear, noise cancelling headphones offer the best mix of sound quality, noise reduction, comfort and extra features that you can get today. But there are dozens to choose from now as the space has gotten more saturated over the past few years. That’s a good thing in part because it’s brought more affordable options with compelling feature sets, but nevertheless, deciding how to spend your money has gotten a bit harder. Engadget reviews dozens of wireless headphones every year and we test out even more to keep our finger on the pulse. In this guide, we’ve highlighted our top picks for the best wireless headphones based on the best mix of features, including overall audio quality, ANC performance, Bluetooth connections, advanced audio tools and more. Our six favorites, which have remained the same since the start of 2024, offer all of the conveniences we’d expect in a set of high-quality wireless headphones, with a range of prices to help you stay within your budget.
How to choose the best wireless headphones for you
When it comes to shopping for a good pair of wireless headphones, the first thing you’ll need to decide on is wear style. Do you prefer on-ear or over-ear headphones? For the purposes of our buyer’s guide, we focus on the over-ear style as that’s what most noise-canceling headphones are nowadays. Sure, you can find on-ear models with ANC, but over-ear designs are much more effective at blocking sound. Speaking of noise cancellation, you’ll want to determine early on if you even want that. If you frequently crank up the beats in noisy environments, you’ll want to not only make sure it’s there, but also make sure it’s good. If you plan to use your new headphones in quieter spaces, skipping ANC can save you some money.
The next area to consider is features. We recommend trying to get the most bang for your buck, but as you’re shopping around you should determine which items are must-haves and what you can live without. And don’t take basic things like automatic pausing and Bluetooth multipoint connectivity for granted, as not all companies include them. We also suggest reading reviews to see how well a company’s more advanced features work. This will help you decide if those are something you’re willing to (likely) pay extra for. Pay close attention to battery life estimates and don’t be easily swayed by lofty promises about call quality.
Sound can be subjective, so we recommend trying before you buy if at all possible. We understand this isn’t easy at a time when we’re doing most of our shopping online. But trying on a set of headphones and listening to them for a few minutes can save you from an expensive case of buyer’s remorse. We also recommend paying attention to things like Spatial Audio, Dolby Atmos, 360 Reality Audio and other immersive formats. Not all headphones support them, so you’ll want to make sure a perspective pair does if that sort of thing excites you.
How we test wireless headphones
The primary way we test wireless headphones is to wear them as much as possible. We prefer to do this over a one- to two-week period, but sometimes embargoes don’t allow it. During this time, we listen to a mix of music and podcasts, while also using the earbuds to take both voice and video calls. Since battery life for headphones can be 30 hours or more, we drain the battery with looping music and the volume set at a comfortable level (usually around 75 percent). Due to the longer battery estimates, we’ll typically power the headphones off several times and leave them during a review. This simulates real-world use and keeps us from having to constantly monitor the process for over 24 straight hours.
To judge the best Bluetooth headphones, we consider audio quality by listening to a range of genres, noting any differences in the sound profile across the styles. We also test at both low and high volumes to check for consistency in the tuning. To assess the quality of phone calls, we’ll record audio samples with the headphones’ microphones as well as have third parties call us.
When it comes to features, we do a thorough review of companion apps, testing each feature as we work through the software. Any holdovers from previous models are double checked for improvements or regression. If the headphones we’re testing are an updated version of a previous model, we’ll spend time getting reacquainted with the older set. Ditto for the closest competition for each new set of headphones that we review.
Sony’s 1000X line has been our top pick for best wireless headphone for a long time now. Until another company can pack in as many high-quality features as Sony, and do so with a mix of excellent sound quality and effective ANC, the crown is safe. With the WH-1000XM5, Sony redesigned its flagship headphones, making them way more comfortable to wear for long periods of time. We also noticed in our tests that the company made noticeable improvements to the active noise cancellation, thanks to a separate V1 chip in addition to the QN1 that was inside the M4. There are now eight total ANC mics as well – the previous model only had four. This all combines to better block background noise and high frequencies, including human voices.
The 1000XM5 still has all of the features that typically make Sony’s top-of-the-line headphones showstoppers. That includes 30-hour battery life and crisp, clear sound with balanced tuning and punchy bass. A combo of touch controls and physical buttons give you on-board access to music, calls and noise modes without reaching for your phone. Speak-to-Chat automatically pauses audio when you begin talking, and like previous Sony headphones, the M5 can change noise modes based on your activity or location. Plus, this model offers better call quality than most of the competition. The only real downside is that they’re $50 more than the WH-1000XM4 at full price ($400).
I’ll be honest, I had a hard time choosing between the Px7 S2 and the Momentum 4 wireless headphones for the runner-up spot this time around. However, Bowers & Wilkins gets the edge in terms of design even though the Px7 S2 and the Momentum 4 are very evenly matched on great sound quality. They’re the two best-sounding sets of Bluetooth headphones I’ve tested this year – and it’s not even close. Sennheiser does have an impressive 60-hour battery life in its favor and improved ANC performance. Those two items alone might be enough for you to overlook the very generic design.
Noise cancellation: No | Multipoint: Yes | Battery life: 60 hours | Weight: 1.42 pounds | Water resistance: None
Audio-Technica has introduced affordable wireless headphones in the past, and while they didn’t offer active noise cancellation, they’re still worth considering. The company’s latest is the M20xBT, a Bluetooth version of the A-T’s popular M20x wired cans. For just $79, you can expect a comfortable fit and up to 60 hours of battery life. Bluetooth multipoint connectivity allows you to connect to multiple devices at once and physical buttons provide reliable on-board control. The design isn’t as refined as the company’s pricer models like the M50xBT2, but you get the bulk of what makes Audio-Technica’s cheaper options so good.
While we haven’t tested the newly renamed QuietComfort Headphones, these cans replace the Bose QuietComfort 45 in the company’s lineup so that’s why they’re on our list. These new wireless headphones are nearly identical to the previous version, except for the added ability to adjust ANC levels and save custom modes. You’ll still get the best noise-blocking performance of any headphone company alongside a supremely comfy fit and 24-hour battery life. Multipoint Bluetooth is here as well.
Back at CES 2022, Panasonic announced the EAH-A800: a new set of active noise canceling headphones under the iconic Technics brand. While most of the features are what you see on any number of wireless headphones, one figure stood out. The company says you can expect up to 50 hours of battery life on the A800, and that’s with active noise cancellation enabled. While we haven’t put them through the full review analysis, I have already tested them on a long flight. The ANC is impressive and they’re comfortable enough to avoid becoming a burden after several hours. Sound quality is also quite good (there’s LDAC support, too) and there are enough features here to justify the premium price tag.
While Master & Dynamic is known for its design prowess, the company’s over-ear headphones were due for a refresh. With the MW75 that debuted in June, the company opted for a look that takes cues from its MG20 gaming headset and mixes them with a combo of aluminum, leather and tempered glass. The company’s trademark sound quality returns with multiple ANC modes and ambient sound options for a range of situations. At $599, the high-end looks don’t come cheap, but if you’re looking for something beyond the pure plastic fashion of most headphones, M&D has you covered.
Apple’s AirPods Max are premium, well-designed headphones that incorporate all of the best features you find on standard AirPods: solid noise cancelation, spatial audio and easy Siri access. However, their $550 starting price makes them almost prohibitively expensive, even for those with Apple devices. There are better options available at lower prices.
Sony WH-CH720N
While the WH-CH720N are a great affordable option, we prefer the Audio-Technica in the budget category. Sony’s cans are lightweight with good sound quality, but ANC struggles at times and they’re made with a lot of plastic.
Beats Studio Pro
The Studio Pro lacks basic features like automatic pausing and multipoint connectivity is only available on Android), plus they’re not very comfortable for people with larger heads. Overall sound quality is improved, though, and voice performance on calls is well above average.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra
Bose’s latest flagship model has a lot to offer, but its trademark Immersive Audio feature can be inconsistent across different types of music. There’s still world-class ANC, excellent comfort and a clearer transparency mode, but for the price, the non-Ultra model is a better choice right now.
Master & Dynamic MH40 (2nd gen)
The MH40 are a great set of headphones if you favor crisp, clear and natural sound that isn’t overly tuned. This pair showcases the company’s affinity for leather and metal too, but limited customization and short battery life for non-ANC cans kept this set from making the cut.
Bowers & Wilkins Px8
The company’s trademark pristine sound is on display here, but the Px8 are more expensive and not nearly as comfortable as the Px7 S2.
FAQs
How can you tell the quality of headphones?
I typically look at three factors: design, sound quality and features. In terms of design, I’m usually looking to see if the build quality of the headphones feels cheap and plasticky. Plenty of companies use plastic, but they can do so in a way that doesn’t look or feel like budget models. For sound quality, I want to hear a nice, even tuning where highs, mids and lows are all well represented. No overly boomy bass or scooped out mids. I also want good clarity where you can pick up fine details and an open, immersive soundstage. Features is typically a distant third, but if a company doesn’t cover basic functionality (automatic pausing, transparency mode, multipoint Bluetooth, etc.) it can be an indication of overall quality.
How do I choose the best quality headphones?
“Best” can be pretty subjective, but I always recommend going to a place where you can listen to the headphones you’re thinking about buying before you commit. Sometimes this isn’t possible, so you’ll want to check return policies. I also recommend doing some research to determine what your priorities are in a new set. Are you an audiophile who wants the best sound quality? Is powerful active noise cancellation (ANC) the most important? Would you rather have conveniences like automatic pausing?
Which brand has the best headphones?
Sony consistently tops our list with its 1000X line. This is mostly due to the combination of sound quality, ANC performance and the truckload of features these headphones pack in. I’ll be the first to tell you that there are better sounding options and other companies, like Bose, offer more effective noise cancellation. But when you add everything up, no one comes close to the full slate of tools Sony puts in its premium headphone line.
Do expensive headphones sound better?
Exorbitant price tags don’t mean better audio quality. Bowers & Wilkins’headphones are on the high end for wireless noise-canceling models and they sound amazing. However, Audio-Technica’s M50xBT2 is much more affordable and doesn’t have ANC, but these headphones have a warm, natural sound profile that I find very inviting. At the end of the day, it will come down to personal preference, but you don’t need to spend a lot to find great headphones.
The Apple Vision Pro is an impressive piece of hardware, and the eye-tracking/hand gesture input combo is fantastic for navigating menus and the like. It’s not so great for gaming. There haven’t been many easy ways to connect a third-party controller for playing iPad or cloud games. This is changing, however, as accessory manufacturer 8BitDo just announced Vision Pro compatibility for a number of its controllers.
These accessories are officially supported by Apple, so they should work as soon as you make a Bluetooth connection. No muss and no fuss. All told, eight devices got the Apple seal of approval here. One such gadget is the company’s Ultimate Bluetooth Controller, which we basically called the perfect gamepad for PC.
8BitDo
Other compatible devices include various iterations of the SN30 Pro controller, the Lite 2 and the NES-inspired N30 Pro 2. The integration isn’t just for game controllers, as 8BitDo also announced AVP compatibility for its Retro Mechanical Keyboard. Of course, the Vision Pro works out of the box with most Bluetooth keyboards.
This is pretty big news, however, as media consumption is one of the best parts of the Vision Pro experience. Video games fall squarely in that category. Just about every iPad title works on the device. If playing Cut the Rope on a giant virtual screen doesn’t do it for you, the headset also integrates with Xbox Cloud Gaming and Nvidia GeForce Now for access to AAA titles.
8BitDo announced official controller support for Apple devices last year, though this was primarily for smartphones, tablets and Mac computers. The integration was thanks to new controller firmware and Apple’s recent iOS 16.3, iPadOS 16.3, tvOS 16.3 and macOS 13.2 updates. It looks like all of the accessories that work with iPhones and iPads also work with the Vision Pro.
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Samsung is adding more camera options to the Galaxy S23 series with its Expert RAW app. While Galaxy S23 series phones already support features like astrophotography and ND Filter, Samsung is adding more adjustment possibilities to the ND Filter option.
Expert RAW update brings the Auto option for ND Filter
The latest version (3.0.05.12) of the Expert RAW app brings the Auto option for ND Filter on the Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, and Galaxy S23 Ultra. Earlier, the ND Filter feature only had the manual option. Things might get hard for someone getting started with the ND Filter feature, and it may take some time to zero in on the perfect ND Filter intensity. The new Auto option for ND Filter will help such users.
Users who are well-versed in manual ND filter settings can continue using the slider to manually choose its intensity. A small tag towards the left side of the ND Filter intensity slider displays whether the Auto or Manual option is active.
The newest version of the Expert RAW app wasn’t available on the Galaxy Store when we checked, but you can download it via APKMirror if you consider it safe. Once you download the latest version on your Galaxy S23 series phone, you should see the Auto option after you activate the ND Filter option.
What is an ND Filter, and why is it used?
ND stands for Neutral Density Filter, and professional photographers use it to reduce the amount of light coming into the camera sensor. This allows them to adjust exposure and shutter speed to avoid overexposure, slow down the movement of clouds or water, reduce depth of field, and retain more color and detail in bright areas of a scene.
This feature is often used in landscape and nature photography. You might have seen some photos with a silky smooth flow of water in waterfalls or water streams or photos of still water in the sea. Such images are captured using ND Filter and some camera setting adjustments. You can create such images with your Galaxy S23 series phone as well.
The 2024 Summer Olympics are just 128 days away. They’ll be here before you know it, so what better time to learn about all the groovy features that the Games’ streaming home, Peacock, has lined up?
The platform will host more than 5,000 hours of live coverage across the two weeks, including each of the 329 medal events. That’s far more than anyone could possibly watch during the Games, so to help you keep track of several events at once, Peacock is offering several multiview options. On TVs, tablets and desktop browsers (but not phones, sadly), you’ll be able to watch four matches at the same time in sports such as track and field, soccer and wrestling in a traditional multiview format.
A mode called Peacock Discovery Multiview aims to direct you to the most important events. Here, you’ll see on-screen descriptions telling you what’s at stake (such as whether there’s an elimination risk or if it’s a medal event) or if you’re watching a first-time Olympian. In both multiview modes, you can move the screens around, choose the audio track you want to listen to and click through to watch an event in full screen. Peacock will offer you up to four multiview options at any given time.
Peacock / NBCUniversal
Another key new feature is called Peacock Live Actions. The idea here is to help you follow the events you’re most interested in. So, if you’re really enjoying a live gymnastics session but the whip-around coverage on the Gold Show broadcast is about to switch over to weightlifting or something, you can hit a button to keep watching the action on the parallel bars. Peacock says the feature will also allow those watching the NBC primetime simulcast to add events to their My Stuff list to watch later.
Elsewhere, you’ll be able to browse through the coverage by sport and check out an interactive schedule. The Catch Up with Key Plays tool will be available for basketball and golf on top of soccer. And along with up-to-date medal standings, you’ll be able to search for your favorite athletes. This will bring you to live events and replays including your favorite competitor, regardless of whether they’re competing individually or as part of a team.
While the Olympics don’t start for another few months, you can subscribe to Peacock now. If you do so and opt for an annual plan, you’ll get 12 months of access for the price of 10.
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At MWC 2024, Google announced a new feature for Google Maps for Wear OS. This feature shows you public transit options to reach a location. The company reiterated the feature in the March 2024 Pixel Feature Drop. Now, it has finally started rolling out the feature.
According to a new report from 9To5Google, Google is making public transit directions available in version 11.119.0702.W of Google Maps for Wear OS as a server-side change. If you have this version of the app on your Galaxy Watch 4, Watch 5, or Watch 6 series smartwatch, you should be able to see the public transit option soon. If not, make sure to update the app from the Google Play Store on your watch.
With this feature, when you search for a location, Google Maps will show you the new Transit option along with the Driving, Walking, and Cycling options. Once you click on the Transit option, the app will show you how you can reach the location using public transport, including showing you how to reach the nearby station, which train or bus to catch, and the arrival/departure timings for those buses and trains.
