10 Best Sony Headphones 2025 in the UK

The Sony MDR-M1 Studio Closed Back Headphones are designed with the needs of music creators and sound engineers in mind, offering a precise and well-balanced sound quality. These headphones boast ultra-wideband playback from 5Hz to 80kHz, making them suitable for professional studio recording and mixing. Sound quality is a strong point, with a specially designed driver unit ensuring accurate audio reproduction.

Comfort is another highlight, as the headphones are lightweight at 216g, and include thick, low-resilience padding for a snug fit during prolonged use. This makes them ideal for long recording sessions. The passive noise cancellation offered by the closed back structure helps minimize ambient noise, although they may not be as effective in extremely noisy environments compared to active noise-canceling models. Battery life isn't a concern as the MDR-M1 is wired, ensuring uninterrupted use, but limits mobility somewhat compared to wireless options.

Connectivity is flexible with two detachable cables of different lengths and a screw-type adapter for diverse stereo setups. Durability is enhanced by replaceable ear pads, though users should be cautious with handling due to the lightweight construction. One downside might be the lack of additional features like built-in microphones or smart controls, which are increasingly common in modern headphones. However, for those focused on high-quality sound and comfort during studio work, the Sony MDR-M1 excels in delivering a professional listening experience.

The Sony WH-1000XM5 Noise Cancelling Wireless Over-Ear Headphones stand out for their exceptional noise cancellation capabilities, thanks to four microphones on each earcup and the Auto NC Optimizer. This makes them ideal for use in noisy environments, providing a serene listening experience. In terms of sound quality, they offer premium performance with high-frequency sensitivity and support for High-Resolution Audio, ensuring music lovers enjoy detailed and vibrant sound.

Comfort is another highlight, with plush cushions and an adjustable headband that offers a snug fit for extended listening sessions. The headphones also boast a considerable battery life of up to 30 hours, making them suitable for long journeys or regular daily use. For quick power-ups, a 3-minute charge provides three hours of playback, though it's worth noting that the USB-PD adapter is sold separately. Connectivity is seamless with Bluetooth support and the capability to connect to two devices simultaneously, enhancing user convenience.

Call quality is top-notch, featuring Sony’s Precise Voice Pickup Technology that minimizes wind noise, making them effective for calls on the go. Additional smart features include integration with voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant, and a companion app for sound customization. The headphones come with a carry case which aids in protection. While they offer a lot of advanced features, the exclusion of the quick charge adapter might be a downside for some buyers. The Smoky Pink color adds a stylish touch for those looking for aesthetics along with functionality. These headphones are well-suited for audiophiles and frequent travelers who prioritize sound quality and noise cancellation.

The Sony INZONE H9 excels as a gaming headset with its standout feature, the 360 Spatial Sound, which offers immersive audio by converting stereo signals into surround sound. This enhances spatial awareness, crucial for pinpointing opponents' movements in gaming. The headset is designed for comfort with its wide, soft headband and synthetic leather ear pads, ensuring prolonged use without discomfort. Its noise-canceling capability is impressive, using Dual Noise Sensor technology similar to Sony's high-end models, effectively blocking out distractions.

For communication, the headset features a clear, Discord-certified boom microphone. This is flexible and bidirectional, ensuring your voice is heard clearly during intense gaming sessions. The INZONE H9 also offers versatility with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to take calls without pausing your game. The 32-hour battery life is a significant advantage, meaning you can game for extended periods without needing frequent recharges.

While the wireless freedom and low-delay technology are beneficial for gamers, the headset is quite large, which might not suit everyone. Its design is more tailored towards PlayStation and PC users, making it less ideal for those who use other gaming platforms. Durability seems promising, but the plastic build might not feel as premium as some might expect at this price point. Additional features include customizable settings through the INZONE Hub PC software, although this requires some tech-savviness to optimize fully. The headset is also optimized for PS5, providing an enhanced experience for PlayStation users. While these features cater well to gamers, non-gamers might not find the added gaming-specific functionalities as beneficial, making it most suitable for dedicated gamers seeking a comprehensive, immersive audio experience.