As the holiday season approaches, it is no secret that many people will be shopping for high-tech gadgets on Black Friday and beyond.
This year, over 20% of Americans intend to give a new electronic gift to their family and friends. Those who plan on purchasing the “latest and greatest” are looking for better battery life and expanded ecosystem compatibility.
For the audiophiles on your list, check out Santa’s top three wireless, noise-canceling headphone picks for 2022.
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)
Users and reviewers celebrate Apple’s AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) unanimously. The in-ear headphones priced anywhere from $234.99 (on sale) to their typical $249.99 retail price.
The Popular Mechanics review team admired the newest AirPods Pro update. “Apple’s AirPods are kind of a big deal. They essentially made wireless earbuds mainstream, thanks to a simple design, easy connectivity, great battery life, and a stellar cast. Today, even with more premium options available, the simplicity of Apple’s baseline AirPods makes them a great gift for any iPhone user carrying wired headphones.”
Sony WH-1000XM5
Offered at a hefty $399.99 asking price, Sony’s latest noise-canceling headphones still offer users and reviewers the same industry-leading quality as the previous year’s model, but with a few minor updates.
Andy White at Expert Reviews notes, “The WH-1000XM5 cost slightly more than their predecessors did at launch but are a superior product, with improved noise cancellation, more detailed audio and a new design that’s more comfortable and helps reduce the impact of wind on noise-cancelling performance. It’s a design that means the headphones can no longer be folded up, but on balance this is a sacrifice worth making.”
Sony WH-1000XM4
The WH-1000XM4 may be Sony’s outgoing over-ear, noise-canceling model but they’re still just as impressive as the XM5 series. Best yet, deals and sales will surely make the XM4 model one of the sweetest purchases of the season.
Reviewed writes, “The XM4 checks off all the right boxes where essentials are concerned: they’re exceedingly comfortable, incredibly lightweight, they offer amazing sound, and offer noise canceling that’s among the best available.” Despite their dated technology, Reviewed still names them the best overall headphones for 2022.
