Whether you need a pair of headphones for all your summer adventures or you’re already looking to invest in a great set for the new school year, Amazon Prime Day may be the perfect opportunity to snag one for an affordable price. There’s nothing like a deal, especially when the item turns out to be great. Sales don’t last forever, though, and time is of the essence, so we asked our editors what headphones to keep an eye on during the Amazon Prime Day sale this week, from June 23 to 26. Turns out, there’s not one right answer.

There are several factors to consider when shopping for headphones, especially with modern technology. Should you go the bluetooth route, you should also consider how long the battery lasts, what type of charger it uses, and how it pairs with your listening device. Once you’ve sorted that, there are plenty of styles to choose from as well.

Chunky over the ear headphones have made a comeback, but now sleeker, thinner 90s styles are slowly becoming popular again too. Alternatively, you might actually prefer earbuds—which also includes in-ear options too. They come as separates but also ones that link in the back. This decision is quite important as it impacts how comfortable and functional you’ll find them.

As of late, headphones have become part of our style too. They’re another accessory to complete your OOTD. There are futuristic chic headphones that make outfits look elevated, but there are also the humble wired headphones that make the clothes you throw on truly look effortless.

And at the end of the day, the purpose of headphones is to listen to music. So you’ll want to take a look at audio quality. For some, noise cancelling headphones will also be a priority. Others might want to see all the details of their listening experience, so headphones that come with their own apps might be the right move.

Below, take a look at our editors’ favorite headphones. Some of them are on sale now, so act quick if you want to grab a pair for summer or before back-to-school season.

For years I wouldn’t so much as think about putting something on or in my ears that wasn’t an AirPod, but once the Sandy Liang Beats Solo 4 came out, (with a bow across the crown??), I had to have them. I love that I can beat them up and they still look good. I love that the visual of over-ear headphones means I can walk in peace through the streets of NYC—that way bad actors can quite literally see that you’re tuned out. And, most importantly, I love how my ears don’t feel sore anymore after a long flight from in-ear buds. Wins all around. —Amalie MacGowan, Programming & Creative Development Director

These are the best bluetooth earbuds I’ve ever tried and it’s not close. Aesthetically, I appreciated the clear top case, and the mix of shiny and matte material on the buds themselves—something about the construction just makes it feel more luxe. The Buds4 Pros fit well in the ear without feeling too heavy, and the sound quality was noticeably better—especially on Active Noise Cancelling mode—than other earbuds I’ve tried, justifying the slightly higher price tag. These are the first earbuds I’ve actually recommended to friends. —Claire Dodson, Senior Editor

The futuristic style is totally fitting because these earbuds are next level. They attach around the ear, so you can still hear some of your surroundings and don’t have to feel it directly in your ear. The audio is still great, and they don’t fall out of your ear as you move, so it’s perfect for those on the go, especially when you might be turning your music on and off to talk to people a lot. —Donya Momenian, Beauty Editor

The JBL Soundgear Clips are perfect for people who move around a lot. I’ve started wearing them for commuting and running because the soft clip goes around your ear versus in, and doesn’t fall off. Plus you can still hear while they’re on and they look like a cuff so you can leave them on throughout the day if you need to! —Alyssa Hardy, Digital Director

Sony

WH-1000XM5 Headphones

No one, and I mean no one, will ever convince me there’s a greater pair of noise-cancelling headphones. I get overstimulated easily, and was gifted these by my partner specifically for when I need to drown out ambient sound. Whether it’s listening to an audiobook on my noisy commute or cranking up the white noise to help me focus during work, these are ideal for shutting out the world. Plus, the sound quality is peak, and the accompanying app has a soundscape library and volume tracking so I can be mindful of preserving my hearing. —Jillian Selzer, Senior Social Media Manager

In college, I had an older model of these and I wore them for years. They started to get a little too much wear and tear—they did last through multiple semesters, a few international trips, a pandemic, graduation, my move to New York and holidays back home to be fair—so I got these to replace them and they live up to the expectation. In fact, I find that these are a little bit more durable, block noise out quite well, stay connected without buffering, and most of all, the pink shade is so cute. —Donya

Apple

AirPods Max 2 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones

These headphones don’t need much introduction. You’ve probably already seen them on a number of celebrities, making them a status symbol on their own. They’re a sleek and chic addition to any outfit, so they double as an accessory too. —Donya

I did a double take walking through Soho on my first trip in London to ogle at the Nothing Headphone (1) on display in the window of their flagship store. I immediately ordered a pair to my apartment in New York as an early birthday present and it was instantly my favorite purchase of 2025. As an amateur audiophile and lover of electronic music, the ability to adjust the headphones EQ in the app is a game changer. Not to mention the noise canceling that can dull out even the loudest of NYC’s subway cars. I’ve been stopped on the street enough times by people complimenting them or asking questions that I feel like their number one sales rep at this point. —Edward Horgan, Content Business Operations Associate