Best Headphones of 2023 – Top 5 Wired and Wireless Picks

This year has been great for audio enthusiasts. Not only did we see new audio tech, such as solid-state drivers, come out, but we also saw the launch of new flagships. As we’re coming to the end of 2023, our team at Gizchina thought it would be a good idea to look back at some of the best headphones you can purchase right now.

So, if you’re planning to get your audio gear upgraded or just want to purchase a new pair of headphones, the list below is for you. And don’t worry; you will find the best headphones from all different categories. With that said, let’s get right into describing the top models, shall we?

1.    Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones – Best Flagship Wireless Headphones

Bose has had a great year. It has refreshed the entire QuietComfort lineup with brand-new headphones and earbuds. But the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones is the star of the show. It’s a huge upgrade over the fan favorite Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700. And with all its upgrades, it’s easily one of the best headphones of 2023.

If you’ve missed our in-depth coverage of the launch, one of the standout features is the design. It now has a much more premium design than its predecessor. This build doesn’t just make it look luxurious but also enhances the comfort level. Next is the upgrade in the audio department.

The pair of wireless headphones bring the company’s new Immersive Audio feature. It makes sound-quality enhancements to make you feel like you are right in front of the artist. Also, there are improvements in the noise cancellation department, making it easier for the listeners to get a fully immersive experience.

Main Highlights of Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

• Up to 24 hours of battery life
• Premium build with comfort-forward design
• Excellent ANC performance
• Great calling performance
• Offers multiple customization features

2.    Sony WH-1000XM5 – Best Noise Cancelling Headphones

Sony always steals the show with its WH series headphones. And things didn’t change this time. It brings a good number of upgrades over the predecessors. Among them is noise canceling. Sony has utilized new transducers that can properly eliminate high and mid-frequency noise.

In addition, you get better battery life than the predecessor. The Sony WH-1000XM5 offers 40 hours of runtime, while the predecessor could only provide 30 hours. Sony has also upgraded the design. The pair of headphones come with a slimmed-down headband that’s paired with a cushiony underside.

Besides, the Sony WH-1000XM5 has better Bluetooth tech. It’s Bluetooth 5.2, which brings multipoint and reliable wireless connectivity. That said, even though the WH-1000XM5 brings many upgrades, the predecessor is still a great purchase. But if you want the best noise cancelling headphones, this is it!

Main Highlights of Sony WH-1000XM5

• Class-leading ANC performance
• Excellent audio performance
• Reliable battery life
• Has a comfortable design
• Delivers excellent calling performance

3.    Edifier W820NB – Best Affordable Wireless Headphones

Edifier debuted a new W820NB last month, and I was thoroughly impressed by everything it brought to the table. For the price, you’re getting a lot. First of all, it has support for Hi-Res Audio, which means you can enjoy all the little details of your favorite tracks.

But it’s not just the Hi-Res Audio that makes W820NB stand out. It also comes with 360-degree sound tech. It allows the headset to deliver a highly immersive audio experience. Edifier didn’t skimp on the build quality either. It is made of quality materials and sports plush and comfortable earpads.

The W820NB headphones bring advanced wireless connectivity as well. It has Bluetooth 5.3, which is one of the latest Bluetooth codecs. And like some of the high-end headphones, you get Bluetooth multipoint.

Main Highlights of Edifier W820NB

• Has support for Hi-Res Audio
• Sports a robust 360-degree sound tech
• Flaunts an ergonomic and highly comfortable design
• Delivers great ANC Performance
• Up to 45 hours of battery life

4.    Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X – Best Closed Back Wired Headphones

While there are a good number of audio enthusiasts who prefer open-back headphones, you can’t deny that closed-back headphones are more versatile. After all, they offer passive noise cancellation, which makes them usable in different environments.

Now, when it comes to closed-back headphones, the Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X has to be among the top options. It’s much easier to drive than the DT 770 Pro, making it easily work with tablets, laptops, and smartphones without an amplifier.

But what really sets the Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X apart is its audio production capabilities. It can deliver an accurate sound reproduction. And even though it’s a pair of closed-back headphones, it sounds very open and spacious. Even the build quality of the DT 700 Pro X is great.

Main highlights of Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X

• Provides detailed, vibrant, and powerful sound
• Offers all-day comfort
• Features a premium build
• Easy to use as it doesn’t demand an amp
• Comes with two interchangeable cables

5.    Focal Utopia – Best Open Back Wired Headphones

The Focal Utopia is a no-brainer choice if you’re looking for the best open back headphones. It comes with everything that an audiophile looks for in a quality headset.

To start with, it boasts a luxurious build, which also offers a great level of comfort. Focal also includes a black faux leather case with each headphone, making it easier to carry the cans around.

When it comes to sound, the Focal Utopia headphones pack 40 mm drivers. Paired with a superior voice coil, these drivers can offer a very neutral sound production. And as it’s a pair of open-back headphones, it excels in delivering spacious audio.

Main Highlights of Focal Utopia

• Delivers incredibly detailed and spacious audio
• Has a premium build quality
• Very comfortable to wear
• Comes with high-quality accessories
• Features a luxurious outlook