10 Best Lightweight Headphones 2025 in the United States

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 Beats Studio Pro headphones are designed for users seeking a lightweight option that doesn't compromise on sound quality and comfort. Weighing about 9.17 ounces, they are relatively easy to wear for extended periods, making them suitable for travel or casual use. One of their standout features is the impressive sound quality, thanks to Beats' custom acoustic platform, which enhances both music listening and call clarity. The personalized spatial audio and noise cancellation features provide an immersive experience, allowing users to enjoy their favorite tracks without distractions.

Battery life is another strong point, offering up to 40 hours on a full charge, and a quick 10-minute charge gives an additional four hours of playback. This makes them perfect for long trips or daily commutes. Connectivity-wise, they support Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring a stable connection and easy pairing with both Apple and Android devices, alongside the option for wired listening through a 3.5mm audio jack or USB-C.

However, there are some downsides. While they offer good noise cancellation, some users may find the fit less comfortable over prolonged use due to their over-ear design, especially those with larger ears. Additionally, they are not water-resistant, which might be a concern for gym-goers or those using them outdoors in wet conditions. The price point may also be higher compared to other lightweight headphones with similar features, which could deter budget-conscious shoppers.

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.