10 Best Lightweight Headphones 2025 in the United States

The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are an excellent choice for anyone seeking high-quality lightweight headphones. Weighing just 9 ounces, they are comfortable for long listening sessions, making them ideal for commuters or those who use them for extended periods. The sound quality is exceptional, thanks to the advanced noise cancellation technology and the Digital Sound Enhancement Engine, which enhances audio playback for a richer experience.

One of the standout features is the active noise cancellation, which effectively reduces ambient noise, allowing you to enjoy your music or calls without distractions. The battery life is impressive too, offering up to 30 hours of playback, with quick charging capabilities that can provide several hours of use from just a short charge.

Touch sensor controls add convenience, letting you manage playback and calls easily, while the Speak-to-Chat feature intelligently adjusts volume during conversations. Additionally, the headphones support multipoint connectivity, allowing seamless switching between devices, which is great for multitaskers. However, there are a few drawbacks. The lack of water resistance might be a concern for users who plan to use them during workouts or in humid conditions. The plastic build, while lightweight, may not convey the premium feel some users expect from high-end headphones. The comfort is generally praised, but the fit might not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with larger ears or heads.

The JBL Tune 510BT Bluetooth headphones offer a combination of key features that make them a good option for those seeking lightweight headphones. Weighing just 5.6 ounces (160 grams), they are easy to carry around and won't cause discomfort from prolonged use. The renowned JBL Pure Bass sound ensures a high-quality audio experience, which is ideal for music lovers. Additionally, the headphones boast a solid battery life of up to 40 hours and a quick charging feature, which provides 2 hours of playback with only a 5-minute charge. This makes them convenient for long listening sessions and quick top-ups on the go.

Comfort and fit are addressed with an adjustable headband and foldable design, though some users might need time for adjustment to achieve the perfect fit. Users are advised to stretch the headband if it feels too tight, which might be a minor inconvenience initially. Connectivity is seamless with Bluetooth 5.0 and the ability to switch between two devices, ensuring you don’t miss important calls. The built-in microphone on the ear cup allows for hands-free calls, although the microphone quality is decent but not exceptional for professional use or noisy environments.

While active noise cancellation is present, it is not the strongest feature of these headphones, making them less ideal for very noisy settings. Durability is reasonably ensured with the use of ABS material, though they may not withstand rough handling. For voice assistant users, the headphones support both Siri and Google Assistant, adding to their versatility. The JBL Tune 510BT provides a balanced mix of good sound quality, long battery life, and comfort, making them suitable for everyday use, especially for music and casual calls.

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones are a solid choice if you're looking for lightweight headphones that excel in comfort and sound quality. Weighing just 8.4 ounces, they are designed for extended wear without causing discomfort, thanks to their plush ear cushions and padded headband. This makes them perfect for those long listening sessions, whether you're working, traveling, or just relaxing at home.

When it comes to sound quality, these headphones deliver high-fidelity audio with an adjustable EQ, allowing you to customize the bass, mid-range, and treble to your liking. The active noise cancellation feature is a standout, effectively blocking out external noise so you can immerse yourself in your music. Additionally, the headphones offer two listening modes: Quiet Mode for full noise cancellation and Aware Mode, which lets you stay aware of your surroundings.

Battery life is impressive, with up to 24 hours of playtime on a single charge. A quick 15-minute charge can give you an extra 2.5 hours of listening, which is very convenient. Plus, if you run out of battery, you can still use them with the provided audio cable, ensuring you’re not left without music. On the connectivity front, the multi-point Bluetooth feature allows you to easily switch between devices, such as your phone and laptop, without needing to disconnect and reconnect each time, which is a great time-saver.

There are a few considerations. While these headphones are not water-resistant, so they may not be ideal for workouts or outdoor activities in wet conditions. Additionally, their touch controls can be a little finicky for some users, and the price point may be higher compared to other options on the market. If you prioritize comfort, sound quality, and effective noise cancellation, the Bose QuietComfort headphones are an excellent choice, particularly for those who enjoy listening to music for extended periods in tranquil settings.