Whether you’re going on a hot girl walk or taking a long flight, a pair of high-quality headphones can do wonders for your mood. From a hype playlist to a riveting audiobook or podcast, sound quality plays a major role in how we experience our content. Sonos is known for its bestselling Arc soundbar that delivers a surround sound experience, and the brand recently released its first-ever pair of headphones which I immediately put to the test.
It can be difficult to find noise-canceling headphones that actually cancel out noise. And on top of that, my tolerance for snoring, police sirens, and crying babies in airplanes is dwindling. So, when I heard the Sonos Ace Headphones ($449) block out the annoyances of the world, I had to test them out at the noisiest places I could think of: NYC, a plane, and the gym. Keep reading to find out why they are worth the hype.
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What I Like About the Sonos Ace Headphones
After using the Sonos Ace Headphones for a few weeks, I’ve determined that they may be the best noise-canceling headphones I’ve ever tried. These headphones have an incredible ability to block out noise pollution, whether it’s the hustle and bustle of the city, a treadmill, or a plane’s pink noise hum — that too, without playing any audio.
When I do play audio, the sound quality is chef’s kiss. I’m transported to the world of whatever I’m listening to. I feel like I’m at “The Eras Tour” when I’m listening to Taylor Swift or at an IMAX movie theater while I’m catching up on “Love Island USA” at the gym. Plus, I can take calls with clear audio since it has a mesh layer over the microphones to help minimize noise from the wind.
It’s easy to use and control with a simple Bluetooth setup; slide controls to adjust the volume; and a button to manage playback and take calls. Some headphones have a touchscreen approach with these controls, but I’ve noticed that I can unintentionally activate them at the gym, and I much rather prefer an old-school button. The Sonos headphones also let you switch seamlessly between devices and can automatically pause when you take the headphones off and resume when they are back on. You can also connect them to your Sonos Arc soundbar to watch a movie on the big screen without disturbing others.
The Sonos Ace headphones are also one of the most comfortable over-the-ear headphones I have ever tried. Their ear cushions are made from a plush memory foam wrapped in soft vegan leather. They have a pillow-like feel that doubles as a comfy surface to sleep against on a flight. Some of the over-the-ear headphones I’ve tried in the past grip and compress onto my head, which gave me headaches after wearing them for a longer time. These headphones stay securely on my head without squeezing and feeling tight. Plus, as someone with an earscape, the headphones don’t make me feel uncomfortable.
What to Consider Before Trying the Sonos Ace Headphones
These are the ultimate lifestyle headphones for everyday workouts, commutes, travel, and more. However, the headphones are not waterproof.
Also, you can adjust the treble, bass, and other audio features according to your liking on the Sonos app. If you’re keen on experiencing the Dolby Atmos audio, you need to have a supported Sonos soundbar. But, it cannot be grouped together with other Sonos speakers.
Who’s the Sonos Ace Headphones Best For?
The Sonos Ace Headphones are best for anyone who wants unparalleled noise cancellation. They deliver an incredibly immersive audio experience that’s completely distraction-free. Their sleek design and plush ear cushions are the cherry on top. These headphones are pretty much the on-the-go version of the brand’s Arc soundbar.
Is the Sonos Ace Headphones Worth the Splurge?
These headphones are sold at a higher price point than its competitors, but the crystal clear audio and unparalleled noise cancellation is worth it. These are definitely worth the investment, but only if you’re looking to upgrade and you have the budget for it.
Additional Details:
- The headphones have a 30-hour battery life with USB-charging.
- They offer Active Noise Cancellation and Aware modes.
- They have eight microphones built-in, and each cup has a 40mm dynamic driver.
- Other features include dynamic head tracking, spatial audio, lossless audio, Dolby Atmos, and adjustable EQ by using the Sonos app.
- They work with both Apple and Android operating systems.
- The headphones come with their own travel case and cable pouch, a USB-C to USB-C cable, and a USB-C to 3.5mm cable.
- They come in black and white.
Where are the Sonos Ace Headphones Available?
The Sonos Ace Headphones are available on the brand’s site, Amazon, and Best Buy.
Rating:
★★★★★
Anvita Reddy is an assistant editor for PS Shopping. She has a passion for products and is an avid reviewer of everything including furniture, mattresses, home gadgets, cookware, tech, and more. Having dealt with acne as a teenager and into adulthood, her expertise lies in beauty. She has tried and tested plenty of skin care, makeup, hair care, and countless other beauty products.
