Sony
Sony WH-1000XM6
S
Ranked #1 in Headphones
Backed by 4 cited sources
Covered by 3 outlets
The consensus best over-ear headphone of 2026: top-of-class ANC, excellent sound, and a refined foldable design earn it the #1 slot at RTINGS and What Hi-Fi alike. At ~$450 it is expensive but unmatched as an all-rounder.
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Key features
- ✓ Class-leading adaptive noise cancelling
- ✓ New QN3 processor with 12 mics
- ✓ Foldable design returns
- ✓ ~30h battery with ANC
- ✓ Excellent call quality
The sources behind this ranking
4 cited sources cover Sony WH-1000XM6. Here's the stance each one takes.
S 3 A 1
R 
RTINGS Named the best over-ear headphones tested thanks to a top-of-the-line ANC system that cuts engine rumble and chatter alike. S Read → R RTINGS Full review underpinning its position atop RTINGS' noise-cancelling and over-ear rankings. S Read → W 
What Hi-Fi? 'A sensational performance upgrade' - What Hi-Fi's Bluetooth noise-cancelling over-ear favourite, keeping Sony on the throne. S Read → S 
SoundGuys A worthy successor with very good sound and excellent ANC; 4.8/5 MDAQS overall in testing. A Read →