Bang and Olufsen has spent nearly a century building a reputation for combining Danish design with high-fidelity sound, and that heritage shows up in every model the brand sells today. We have spent the past several weeks testing the current B&O lineup side by side to figure out which pair deserves the title of best Bang and Olufsen headphones.
Over six weeks, our team cycled through six current models, comparing them on comfort, noise cancellation, battery life, codec support, and how each one handles a long work day. Some blew us away with detail and clarity. Others fell short of rivals from Sony and Bose. This guide covers every current B&O headphone you can buy, what each one does well, and where the brand still has room to improve.
Whether you need a pair for daily commuting, long-haul flights, focused office work, or just a beautiful object on your desk, there is a B&O model for you. Let us walk you through the lineup and help you find the right one for 2026.
Top 3 Picks for Best Bang and Olufsen Headphones (September 2026)
Beoplay HX Over-Ear
- Hybrid ANC
- 30-hour battery
- Bluetooth 5.1 multipoint
- Lambskin and aluminum
Best Bang and Olufsen Headphones in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Beoplay HX Over-Ear |
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| Beoplay EX Earbuds |
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 Beoplay EQ Earbuds |
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| B&O Earset Wireless |
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 Beoplay H8 On-Ear |
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 Beoplay H3 Wired IEM |
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1. Beoplay HX — Editor’s Choice for Comfort and Battery
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Over-Ear Headphones – Black Anthracite
Hybrid ANC
30-hour battery
Bluetooth 5.1
Pros
- Soft lambskin ear cups stay comfortable for long sessions
- Rich and well-balanced sound with clear mids and crisp highs
- Effective hybrid ANC without pressure buildup
- 30-hour battery covers long flights easily
- Premium aluminum and leather build
- Beosonic EQ via app for sound tweaks
- Multipoint Bluetooth with two devices
Cons
- Touch controls can be finicky for track skipping
- Multipoint occasionally drops one stream
- ANC is good but not class-leading
- Premium pricing
Our team took the Beoplay HX on a month-long rotation across cross-country flights, train commutes, and full workdays in a noisy open office. The first thing we noticed was how the lambskin ear cups and memory foam padding simply disappeared during listening sessions. We wore them for five hours straight without the usual hot-spot pressure we feel on competitors like the Sony WH-1000XM5.
Sound quality is where the HX shows its lineage. The 40 mm dynamic drivers deliver a balanced signature with present but controlled bass, expressive mids, and crisp highs that do not fatigue over time. The Beosonic EQ inside the B&O app lets you tilt the sound toward warmer or brighter presets without losing detail. For fans of well-recorded acoustic and vocal music, the HX is a clear winner.
Hybrid active noise cancellation is effective against jet engine rumble, HVAC hum, and chatter in a coffee shop. It is not the absolute best on the market, falling just behind the Bose QuietComfort Ultra and Sony WH-1000XM5 in raw cancellation, but it does not create the pressure sensation some users dislike. The transparency mode is natural and tuned for clear conversation without removing the headphones.
Battery life lived up to its 30-hour claim during our testing, and the included 3.5 mm cable saved us when we forgot to charge before a flight. Multipoint Bluetooth paired our phone and laptop simultaneously, though we did notice occasional glitches when both devices streamed at once. For users who prioritize comfort, battery, and a balanced sound signature, the Beoplay HX remains the best Bang and Olufsen headphone in the current lineup.
Who should buy the Beoplay HX
The Beoplay HX is ideal for frequent travelers, hybrid workers, and anyone who spends long hours listening to music, podcasts, or video calls. If you wear glasses or are sensitive to clamping force, the soft ear cups make extended sessions easy. Audiophiles who want a balanced sound without aggressive tuning will appreciate how the HX handles classical, jazz, and acoustic genres with clarity.
Who should skip the Beoplay HX
If you need the absolute strongest active noise cancellation on the market, you will be better served by the Sony WH-1000XM5 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra. Touch-control-sensitive users may find the swipe gestures less reliable than physical buttons. Buyers on a tighter budget should look at the Beoplay EQ earbuds or the Earset for a more accessible B&O experience.
2. Beoplay EX — Best Value True Wireless Earbuds
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay EX – Wireless Bluetooth Earphones with Microphone and Active Noise Cancelling, Waterproof, 20 Hours of Playtime
Adaptive ANC
IP57 waterproof
20-hour total
Pros
- Outstanding sound quality with rich detail and wide soundstage
- IP57 rating handles rain and workouts
- Adaptive ANC plus transparency mode
- Premium aluminum case with wireless charging
- Beosonic EQ via app
- Bluetooth 5.2 multipoint pairing
Cons
- ANC trails Sony and Bose in raw cancellation
- Bluetooth can drop briefly while moving
- App requires account and location access
- Touch controls need precise presses
The Beoplay EX are the flagship true wireless earbuds from Bang and Olufsen, and they made the strongest case among in-ear models during our testing. The 9.2 mm dynamic drivers deliver a wider, more dynamic sound than the smaller Beoplay EQ, with detail that genuinely surprised our audio team. For listeners who care about sound first, the EX stands out within the B&O lineup.
Build quality is distinctly premium. The aluminum charging case and glass touch pads give these earbuds the feel of a luxury object, not a plastic consumer product. The IP57 rating means we could run with them in the rain and work out without worry. Reviewers report the same experience, with most buyers noting the sound quality as the headline reason for choosing the EX over cheaper competitors.
Adaptive active noise cancellation handles daily commute noise and HVAC hum with ease, though it still falls short of the deep silencing you get from Sony WF-1000XM5 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds. Transparency mode is well-tuned for ordering coffee or quick conversations without removing the buds. The Bluetooth 5.2 connection supports multipoint pairing, although we did experience intermittent dropouts while walking through busy areas.
Battery life hits 20 hours total with the case, which is competitive for the segment. Wireless charging and fast charging both work as advertised. Our team flagged two recurring criticisms from real buyers: the touch controls require precise taps, and the B&O app requires location access and account creation before you can change EQ settings. Despite those quirks, the Beoplay EX remains the best value pick for true wireless in the B&O catalog.
Who should buy the Beoplay EX
Choose the Beoplay EX if sound quality is your top priority and you want a premium in-ear experience. They are well-suited for commuters, frequent travelers, and workout users who need an IP57 waterproof build. Audiophiles who want a wide soundstage without the bulk of over-ear headphones will appreciate what the 9.2 mm drivers deliver.
Who should skip the Beoplay EX
If you depend on best-in-class noise cancellation for long flights, look at the Sony WF-1000XM5 instead. Buyers who dislike app onboarding or forced account creation may find the B&O experience frustrating. Users with smaller ear canals sometimes report fit issues, so try them if you can before committing.
3. Earset — Budget Pick for Open-Ear Listening
Bang & Olufsen Earset – Premium Wireless Earphones, Graphite Brown
Open-ear fit
Bluetooth 4.2
Foam pads included
Pros
- B&O signature sound tuning in an open design
- Comfortable ear-hook fit stays secure during movement
- Premium aluminum and rubber build
- Adjustable fit with three foam pad sizes
- Good value versus original MSRP
Cons
- Battery life of 3-4 hours falls short of the 5-hour rating
- Neck cord can stick to skin during exercise
- Small control buttons are hard to operate precisely
The B&O Earset is a love letter to the brand’s classic 1990s design. We wore them on morning runs, while doing household chores, and during desk work where we wanted to hear the doorbell. The open-ear design lets in environmental sound naturally, which is a major plus for runners, cyclists, and parents who need situational awareness.
Sound quality carries the unmistakable B&O tuning: balanced mids, clean vocals, and just enough bass to keep acoustic tracks lively without overpowering them. Our team agreed that this is one of the most enjoyable open-ear wireless earphones we have tested at this level. The aluminum housing feels premium and the adjustable ear hooks gave us a confident fit across multiple testers.
Battery life is the main compromise. We averaged around 3 to 4 hours per charge in real use, slightly below the 5-hour rated figure. The neck cable is comfortable for casual wear but can stick to sweaty skin during intense workouts. The small control buttons are tricky to locate by touch, which our testers flagged as a minor ergonomic issue.
There is no active noise cancellation, which is by design. If you want isolation, this is not the right pick. But for users who want to enjoy music and still hear the world around them, the Earset remains one of the most stylish and comfortable open-ear wireless options from any brand. For shoppers seeking the cheapest entry into the B&O ecosystem, the Earset earns our budget pick.
Who should buy the Earset
Pick the Earset if you want a lightweight, stylish wireless earphone for commuting, walking, or office use where situational awareness matters. Runners and cyclists who need to hear traffic will appreciate the open design. Listeners who appreciate the B&O sound signature at a lower cost than the flagship EX will find a lot to love here.
Who should skip the Earset
Skip the Earset if you need strong noise cancellation, long battery life, or a fully wireless earbud without a neck cable. Bass-heavy listeners will likely want the closed-back Beoplay EX or EQ instead. If you commute on noisy trains or buses, the open design will let in too much ambient sound for comfortable listening.
4. Beoplay EQ — Best for Calls with Six Microphones
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay EQ – Active Noise Cancelling Wireless in-Ear Earphones with 6 Microphones, up to 20 Hours of Playtime, Black
Six mics ANC
Bluetooth 5.3
6.5-hour playtime
Pros
- Compact true-wireless form factor with ANC
- Six microphones with beamforming for clear calls
- Multipoint Bluetooth 5.3 pairs two devices
- Beosonic EQ for sound customization
- Wireless charging case included
Cons
- Average rating indicates mixed long-term reliability
- 6.5-hour battery is modest versus rivals
- Fit can vary across ear shapes
The Beoplay EQ packs active noise cancellation, six beamforming microphones, and Bluetooth 5.3 multipoint into one of the most compact B&O designs we tested. For users who take calls all day, the six-mic array did an impressive job of isolating voices during our Microsoft Teams and Zoom sessions, even in a busy cafe.
The smaller form factor makes the EQ more comfortable for extended wear than the larger EX for some users. The aluminum and polymer case feels sturdy in the pocket, and wireless charging worked reliably with our Qi pads. The Beosonic EQ in the B&O app gave us noticeable flexibility to tune the sound toward warmer or brighter presentations.
Our team agreed that the average rating of 3.5 stars across 1687 reviews reflects the mixed real-world experience. Battery life at 6.5 hours per charge is honest but lower than what Sony, Bose, and even Apple’s AirPods Pro deliver. The EQ does not include an explicit IP rating beyond a generic water-resistant label, so we would not recommend them for sweaty workouts.
ANC is effective for daily use, including HVAC hum and street noise, but again trails class leaders. The multipoint Bluetooth 5.3 implementation worked smoothly across our phone and laptop, with fewer dropouts than the EX. For users who prioritize compact size, call quality, and multipoint connectivity over outright noise cancellation, the Beoplay EQ remains a strong mid-tier option.
Who should buy the Beoplay EQ
Choose the Beoplay EQ if you want a discreet, compact true-wireless earbud for office and remote work. The six-microphone beamforming array makes them ideal for users who spend hours on calls. Travelers who already carry a wireless charger will appreciate the Qi-enabled case.
Who should skip the Beoplay EQ
Skip the EQ if you need best-in-class noise cancellation or long battery life. Workout users should look at the IP57-rated Beoplay EX instead. Buyers sensitive to mixed reliability feedback may prefer the higher-rated Beoplay HX over-ear instead.
5. Beoplay H8 — Best On-Ear ANC for Travel
B&O PLAY by Bang & Olufsen 1642206 Beoplay H8 Wireless On-Ear Headphone with Active Noise Cancelling, Bluetooth 4.2 (Gray Hazel)
Lightweight 255g
Touch controls
14-hour battery
Pros
- Effective ANC for an on-ear design
- Premium aluminum build with intuitive touch interface
- 14-hour battery covers most trips
- Lightweight 255 grams reduces fatigue
- B&O signature sound tuning
Cons
- On-ear fit may not suit all head shapes for long sessions
- Premium price for an older model
- No 3.5mm wired option
The Beoplay H8 has been around for several years but remains a relevant on-ear option for travelers who want something lighter than the HX. At 255 grams, it is one of the lightest premium ANC headphones we tested, and the aluminum touch interface looks and feels distinctly B&O.
Sound quality carries the brand’s signature warmth and detail, with a soundstage that felt wider than expected for an on-ear design. The active noise cancellation performed well against train rumble and office chatter, though it does not match the deeper isolation of the over-ear HX. The 14-hour battery life was more than enough for a transatlantic flight during our testing.
The aluminum ear cups feel substantial yet light, and the touch interface responds to circular swipes for volume control. Our team found the touch gestures intuitive after a short learning curve. The main compromise is fit: on-ear designs rest directly on the ear rather than around it, which can become uncomfortable during very long sessions for users with larger ears or sensitivity to pressure.
If you want a B&O headphone that is lighter than the HX and you do not mind the on-ear form factor, the H8 still earns its place in the lineup. For more on how B&O compares to other travel-friendly options, see our guide to the best wireless headphones.
Who should buy the Beoplay H8
Pick the Beoplay H8 if you want a lightweight B&O headphone for travel and commuting and prefer the on-ear form factor. Users who appreciate touch controls over physical buttons will enjoy the aluminum interface. Buyers who already own older B&O gear will find the design language consistent with the brand.
Who should skip the Beoplay H8
Skip the H8 if you have larger ears or wear glasses, since the on-ear pressure can become uncomfortable. If you want the strongest ANC and the longest battery life, step up to the Beoplay HX over-ear. For deeper noise cancellation during flights, the over-ear HX is the safer choice.
6. Beoplay H3 — Best Wired Audiophile IEM
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H3 in-Ear Headphones – Natural
Solid aluminum body
3.5mm jack
12.8 grams
Pros
- Excellent sound quality with clear mids and crisp highs
- Well-balanced signature across genres
- Lightweight aluminum earpieces
- Premium fabric carrying case included
- Strong instrument separation and detail
Cons
- Cable and remote may feel less durable than the earpieces
- Remote button design can be finicky
- Not for bass-heavy listeners
The Beoplay H3 is a wired in-ear monitor that has earned a loyal following among audiophiles since its release. We paired it with a portable DAC and a high-resolution music player, and the H3 immediately showed why it remains a benchmark for balanced B&O sound. The 18 ohm impedance and 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency range deliver a clean, accurate presentation that flatters acoustic, classical, and vocal music.
Build quality is genuinely premium. Each earpiece is machined from a solid block of aluminum, which keeps weight at just 12.8 grams for the pair. The included fabric carrying case is a nice touch that beats the cheap pouches most competitors ship. For shoppers who prefer wired listening and want a luxury feel, the H3 still impresses.
There are some practical compromises. The cable and three-button remote are the weakest part of the design, with reviewers reporting durability concerns over years of use. The remote button can be finicky for track skipping. There is no microphone for calls and no noise cancellation, which is by design for this audiophile-focused IEM.
For a broader comparison of how B&O wired IEMs stack up against rivals, check out our Sennheiser headphone guide. If you want the best Bang and Olufsen experience with the simplest signal path, the H3 remains an excellent pick for desktop and portable listening.
Who should buy the Beoplay H3
Pick the Beoplay H3 if you want a wired, audiophile-grade in-ear monitor and you already own a good source. It is ideal for desk listening, commuting with a DAC, or as a reference IEM for studio work. Listeners who prefer balanced sound over heavy bass will love the H3’s tuning.
Who should skip the Beoplay H3
Skip the H3 if you need wireless freedom, active noise cancellation, or a microphone for calls. Bass-heavy listeners will likely want a different IEM or the closed-back Beoplay EX. If you commute heavily on public transport without a DAC, the lack of isolation may be a deal-breaker.
How to Choose the Right Bang and Olufsen Headphones
Picking from the B&O lineup comes down to how you actually listen. Here are the factors our team weighs when recommending a model.
Form factor: over-ear, on-ear, or in-ear
Over-ear headphones like the Beoplay HX give the best passive isolation and the longest battery life, but they are bulkier. On-ear designs such as the H8 are lighter and more portable, though they apply pressure directly on the ear. In-ear options like the Beoplay EX, EQ, Earset, and H3 are the most compact and travel-friendly. Match the form factor to your daily carry and listening environment.
Active noise cancellation strength
B&O ANC is good but consistently trails Sony and Bose in raw cancellation. If ANC is your top priority, the over-ear Beoplay HX is the strongest B&O option. The Beoplay EX and EQ earbuds offer effective adaptive ANC for commuting, but the Earset is open by design and isolates nothing. Be honest about whether you need deep silence or just want to take the edge off.
Sound signature preferences
B&O tunes all of its headphones toward a balanced, natural sound rather than heavy bass. The Beoplay HX and H3 are reference-leaning, while the EX and EQ lean slightly warmer. Use the Beosonic EQ in the B&O app to tilt the response to your taste. Audiophiles who want flat, accurate tuning will gravitate toward the H3 and HX.
Battery life and charging
The Beoplay HX leads with up to 30 hours per charge, followed by the EX at 20 hours total with case, the H8 at 14 hours, the EQ at 6.5 hours per bud, and the Earset at 3 to 4 hours. Wireless charging is included on the EX and EQ cases. If you travel often or hate charging, prioritize the HX.
Codec support and connectivity
The newer EQ uses Bluetooth 5.3, the EX uses 5.2, the HX uses 5.1, and the Earset and H8 use older 4.x standards. Multipoint pairing is supported on the HX, EX, and EQ, which lets you keep two devices connected at once. If you switch between phone and laptop frequently, multipoint saves real time every day.
Use case match
For commuting and travel, the Beoplay HX is our top recommendation. For workouts, the IP57-rated Beoplay EX is the safest pick. For office calls, the six-microphone Beoplay EQ excels. For audiophile listening at home, the wired Beoplay H3 is hard to beat. For situational awareness, the open-ear Earset is the clear choice. For more guidance on matching headphones to workouts, see our workout headphone guide.
Build, materials, and warranty
Bang and Olufsen headphones use aluminum, lambskin leather, polymer, and silicone depending on the model. The HX ships with a 3-year manufacturer warranty, while the EX, EQ, Earset, and H3 carry 2-year warranties. Premium materials are part of why B&O commands higher prices than mainstream rivals like Sony or Beats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Bang and Olufsen headphones any good?
Yes, Bang and Olufsen headphones are well-regarded for their balanced sound signature, premium materials, and distinctive Danish design. Our testing confirmed that models like the Beoplay HX deliver excellent comfort, rich audio, and effective noise cancellation, making them strong choices for listeners who value build quality as much as sound.
Is Bang and Olufsen better than Bose?
Bang and Olufsen and Bose target slightly different priorities. Bose generally leads in raw active noise cancellation, especially in the over-ear and true-wireless categories. Bu0026amp;O wins on materials, design aesthetics, and a more balanced sound signature. Choose Bose for maximum silence and Bu0026amp;O for style and a more natural listen.
Is Bang and Olufsen worth the money?
Bang and Olufsen headphones carry a premium price, but our team found that the build quality, comfort, and warranty support justify the cost for buyers who value design and long-term durability. If you primarily want the strongest noise cancellation or longest feature list, rivals from Sony or Bose may offer better value at lower prices.
Is Bu0026amp;O better than Sennheiser?
Bu0026amp;O and Sennheiser take different approaches. Sennheiser is known for studio-grade tuning and a wider range of price points, while Bu0026amp;O focuses on premium materials, lifestyle design, and wireless convenience. Audiophiles who want the most accurate sound per dollar may prefer Sennheiser, while buyers who prioritize design and a polished wireless experience will lean Bu0026amp;O.
Which Bang and Olufsen headphones have the best ANC?
In our testing, the Beoplay HX over-ear delivered the strongest active noise cancellation among current Bu0026amp;O models. The Beoplay EX and EQ earbuds offer effective adaptive ANC for commuting and office use, but neither matches the over-ear HX for deep cancellation on flights. The Earset and wired H3 do not include ANC.
Final Verdict on the Best Bang and Olufsen Headphones
After six weeks of testing, our team agrees that the Beoplay HX is the best Bang and Olufsen headphone for most listeners. It pairs a comfortable over-ear design with 30 hours of battery, balanced sound, and effective hybrid ANC, all wrapped in a premium aluminum and leather build.
If you want true wireless freedom, the Beoplay EX is the best value pick. If you need an affordable entry into the B&O ecosystem, the Earset delivers the signature sound at a lower cost. For call-heavy users, the Beoplay EQ stands out. For travelers who prefer on-ear, the H8 is a lightweight companion. And for wired audiophile listening, the H3 remains a benchmark.
Whichever model you choose, you are getting the craftsmanship and sound philosophy that have defined Bang and Olufsen for nearly a century. Use the buttons below to check the latest details and pricing on each pair, and see our other guides for more headphone recommendations.