Neckband headphones combine the comfort and stability of a headphone band that rests around your neck with the great sound quality of wireless earbuds. This innovative design is ideal for those looking for a lightweight and convenient listening option for calls, music, podcasts and more on the go.
In this expert guide, we will cover the top 7 neckband headphone options on the market based on sound, comfort, battery life and other key factors. We‘ll also provide advice on how to select the best neckband headphones for your needs and budget.
What Are Neckband Headphones?
Neckband headphones consist of a flexible band that sits around the back of your neck, with wireless earbuds connected to each end via short cables. This keeps the headset securely in place for increased comfort and stability while allowing you to easily put the earbuds in when you want to listen and take them out when you need to hear your surroundings.
Compared to traditional wireless earbuds, neckband headphones don‘t require separately carrying a charging case. The integrated neckband also reduces the likelihood of losing or misplacing an earbud. Neckbands provide a better fit for active use cases as well – the earbuds stay put no matter how much you move your head.
Key benefits of neckband headphones include:
- Comfortable and stable fit
- Great for sports and activity
- Don‘t need a separate charging case
- Harder to lose earbuds
- Lightweight and portable
- Excellent sound quality available
Now let‘s get into the top 7 picks!
#1 Best Overall: Sony WI-1000XM2
The Sony WI-1000XM2 headphones top our list for their exceptional combination of sound quality, comfort and special features like noise cancellation. These premium headphones produce dynamic, well-balanced audio with deep bass you can really feel.
Noise cancelling technology using QN1 processors actively tunes out ambient sound so you can focus completely on your music. Dual microphones also help isolate vocals for clearer calls. Despite the advanced electronics, the flexible neckband remains lightweight enough for all-day wearing.
With up to 10 hours of battery per charge and quick charging support, you can keep the music going on even the longest days – and enable handy features like Smart Listening via Sony‘s companion app. For those wanting excellent wireless headphone performance in a neckband form factor, the Sony WI-1000XM2 is a top-tier choice.
Key Features:
- Superb noise cancelling with QN1 chip
- Clear calls with dual mics
- Smart Listening auto audio adjustment
- 10 hour battery life
- Quick charging support
Price: $298
#2 Longest Battery Life: OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z2
Need power for multiple days of wireless listening? The OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z2 lasts over 30 hours per charge, significantly longer than any other neckband headphones. Despite the marathon battery, these headphones still deliver lively, bass-driven sound aided by 12.4mm drivers.
OnePlus packs its premium Bullets headphone line with useful features too – the Z2 model gets magnetic controls, quick pair, a slick matte finish and water/sweat resistance matching an IP55 rating. As long as you have a recent OnePlus phone or other Android device, you can enjoy robust wireless performance at a fair price with the Bullets Wireless Z2.
Key Features:
- Whopping 30+ hour battery life
- Magnetic pinch controls
- IP55 water/sweat resistant
- Bass-driven 12.4mm drivers
- Fast charging support
Price: $64
#3 Best Value: LG Tone Style SL5
The LG Tone Style SL5 hits the sweet spot between price and features with its retractable neckband earbuds. This innovative design protects the earbuds when not in use while offering the same great wireless sound LG is known for when headphones are extended.
Meridian Audio tuning allows for warm, natural audio reproduction from music to calls. On-board controls make it easy to handle calls and playback without touching your phone. Stable over-ear fit ensures the SL5 earbuds stay firmly in place as well. For just $76, the LG Tone Style SL5 gives you premium features without the premium price.
Key Features:
- Retractable earbuds for protection and portability
- Meridian Audio tuned drivers
- On-neck playback controls
- Stable over-ear fit
- 8 hour battery life
Price: $76
#4 Best Budget Option: JBL Tune 125BT
JBL hits well above its $25 price point with the feature-packed Tune 125BT neckband. Though lighter on advanced options, these headphones cover core needs with aplomb – easy Bluetooth pairing, punchy JBL sound and an astounding 16 hours of battery life per charge.
Lightweight construction featuring flat cables makes the Tune 125BT disappear around your neck. Access your phone‘s voice assistant, manage playback and take calls using the 3-button remote module. USB-C charging helps enable rapid refueling too. If you want solid wireless audio at an affordable cost, JBL comes through with an excellent value choice.
Key Features:
- 16 hours playback time
- Speedy USB-C charging
- Simple controls with voice assistant access
- JBL signature sound
- Extremely affordable
Price: $24.95
#5 Most Lightweight: Sennheiser CX 350BT
Weighing just 14 grams, the Sennheiser CX 350BT practically floats on your neck for fatigue-free all-day wear. Ultra-lightweight design does not mean compromised audio though, as these German-engineered headphones retain Sennheiser‘s renowned lively, detailed sound.
Bluetooth 5.0 allows rock-solid connectivity to all your devices with support for AAC and AptX Low Latency high-quality streaming. On-ear controls grant easy access to voice assistants and music playback too. For those who prioritize feather-light ergonomics without ditching features, the CX 350BT hits the spot.
Key Features:
- Extremely lightweight build
- Sennheiser signature sound
- AAC/AptX Low Latency support
- 10 hour battery life
- Intuitive on-ear controls
Price: $99.95
#6 Top Connectivity: Beats Flex
Thanks to Apple‘s custom W1 chip, the Beats Flex offers exceptional wireless connectivity and seamless pairing with Apple devices. Just turn the headphones on near your iPhone or iPad and they instantly connect without you having to dive into Bluetooth settings.
The Flex neckband houses 12-hour battery life, clean mids/highs and the extra bass Beats is known for. You also get unique features like Audio Sharing to wirelessly share audio with a second pair of Beats headphones. Reliable connectivity, great ergonomics and signature sound make the Beats Flex a smart companion for Apple users.
Key Features:
- Apple W1 chip for fast pairing
- 12+ hours battery life
- Signature Beats sound
- Audio Sharing
- Flex-form neckband
Price: $49
#7 Best Microphone: Philips TAT3215BK
Optimized for clear calls and voice, the Philips TAT3215BK neckband stands out with its high-quality boom mic. Noise isolation and echo cancellation allow your voice to come through loud and clear on the other end. These headphones even vibrate to alert you of incoming calls.
For music, 12mm neodymium drivers deliver bold bass and plenty of detail. Sturdy matte construction ensures the TAT3215BK handles active use with ease. With excellent microphone performance and dynamic audio reproduction, this Philips headset makes wireless communication a breeze.
Key Features:
- High-quality boom microphone
- Vibration call alert
- Noise isolation
- Deep 12mm drivers
- 14 hour battery life
Price: $49.98
How To Select The Best Neckband Headphones
Keep these key factors in mind when choosing neckband headphones for your needs:
Sound Quality – Look for larger drivers, premium branding and advanced codecs like AAC or AptX for better clarity, bass, volume and dynamic range. Noise cancellation also improves listening experience.
Battery Life – Shoot for at least 8 to 10 hours minimum for full-day use. Fast charging support is a major plus for quickly topping up.
Comfort & Fit – Lightweight, flexible neckbands that don‘t dig in will be most comfortable for prolonged wear. Secure-fitting earbuds are also important.
Connectivity – Bluetooth 5.0+ enables stable connections up to 800+ feet away. Some headphones also pair quicker with certain brands of phones.
Extra Features – Look for perks like retractable/magnetic earbuds, voice assistant support, audio sharing, speakerphone mode, EQ apps and water/dust resistance if needed.
Budget – Set a budget cap based on must-have features, then find best option matching or coming under it. Prices range from $25 to $300+.
Prioritize the factors most important for your personal use case. Frequent travellers may want longer battery life and noise cancellation for instance, while athletes will prefer sweat-proof waterproof models. Finding your audio sweet spot is easier when you know exactly what you need.
Using & Caring For Your Neckband Headphones
Connect devices – Pair your phone, tablet or computer via Bluetooth settings. Some headphones also allow multi-point connections to two devices simultaneously.
Power on/off – Press and hold the power button on the in-line remote or a earbud to turn on headphones and enter pairing mode. Repeat to turn off when done using.
Playback controls – Use buttons on neckband or earbuds to control volume, start/stop playback, accept calls, activate voice assistants and more, depending on model.
Charge when low – Recharge via included USB cable when battery runs low. Storage at 40-50% charge optimal for longevity. Avoid leaving depleted for extended periods.
Clean earbuds – Use included brush or soft-bristle brush and rubbing alcohol to gently clear away earwax and debris around ear tips/eargels to maintain sound.
Store properly – Keep headphones in provided pouch or case when not in use to avoid cable tangling and damage in bags.
With occasional cleaning and proper power management, your wireless neckband headphones can deliver great portable sound for years of regular use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of neckband headphones?
Neckband headphones provide better stability and harder to lose earbuds compared to traditional wireless earbuds. They also don‘t require carrying a charging case.
What‘s the best neckband headphone overall?
The Sony WH-1000XM2 tops our list with its excellent combination of sound quality, comfort, battery life and noise cancellation.
How long do neckband headphone batteries last?
Most neckbands offer 8 to 12 hours playback on a full charge. Some models like the OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z2 provide over 30 hours playback per charge though.
Can you connect two devices at once?
Some neckband headphones support multipoint Bluetooth connections for simultaneously pairing with two phones or a phone + computer. But most can only connect to one device at once.
Do neckband headphones have noise cancellation?
High-end options like the Sony WH-1000XM2 do come with active noise cancellation that can block out ambient environmental sound. More affordable models lack this feature however.
What‘s better – neckband vs earbuds vs over-ear headphones?
It depends on your preferences and use case! Neckbands offer better stability and harder to lose design than wireless earbuds, while retaining portability. But over-ear headphones provide better noise isolation and audio fidelity for critical listening.
Try some different form factors to see what works for best for your needs.
The Bottom Line
Neckband wireless headphones provide an excellent balance of comfort, sound quality and convenience in a portable package built for life on the go. Models on this list cover a range of needs and budgets so you can find your personal audio sweet spot.
For most users wanting a top-tier overall performer, the Sony WH-1000XM2 leads the pack with sublime noise-cancelled sound, plush comfort and up to 10 hours listening per charge.
But long-haul travellers may prefer the OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z2 for its class-leading 30+ hour battery life instead. And shoppers on a tight budget will appreciate the impressive value delivered by the $24.95 JBL Tune 125BT.
Hopefully this guide gives you the knowledge needed to discover your perfect neckband match! Let us know if you have any other questions.
