Hundreds of readers bought these headphones this year (and they're not from Bose, Sony, or Apple)

When it comes to headphones, it's hard to go wrong with established brands like Bose, Sony, or Apple. However, ZDNET's readers have spoken, and their top picks for 2026 so far are a different story altogether. ZDNET's recommendations are based on extensive testing, research, and comparison shopping.

Our team gathers data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings, as well as independent review sites. We also analyze customer reviews to understand what matters most to real people who own and use the products we're assessing. So, what are the most popular headphones among ZDNET's readers?

The CMF Buds 2 Plus take the top spot, with their impressive feature set and affordable price point of $80. These true wireless earbuds support Sony's high-resolution LDAC Bluetooth codec, boast an IP55 dust- and water-resistant rating, and deliver excellent noise-canceling performance. Users with Nothing phones can even access Low Latency Mode for mobile gaming and ChatGPT integration with their phone's voice assistant.

Other top picks include the CMF Headphone Pro, which offers high performance and a budget-friendly price tag of $100. The Headphone Pro supports LDAC codec for Android users, Google Fast Pair, and Windows Swift Pair for seamless device pairing. Apple users can also access impressive audio, noise-canceling abilities, spatial audio, and Personal Sound Profile for tailored listening.

With 50 hours of battery life, these headphones outlast many of their premium competitors. Bose's QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) also make the list, offering exceptional noise cancellation, comfort, and a premium experience. The Sony MDR-7506, a simple yet reliable wired headphone, is another popular choice, with its clear sound and affordable price tag of $35.

The Soundcore Sleep A30 and Sleep A20 earbuds cater to those looking for effective noise cancellation and comfort during sleep. Rounding out the list are the Sony WH-1000XM5, Shokz OpenFit, and Soundcore AeroFit Pro, each offering unique features and benefits that have resonated with ZDNET's readers.