The best headphones 2025: In part 8 of ours big AUDIO TEST & LikehifiAnnual review we present the most outstanding ones headphones of the past hi-fi year – from the middle class to the uncompromising high-end reference.
► Part 1: The best compact & bookshelf speakers 2025
► Part 2: The best floorstanding speakers 2025
► part 3: The best active speakers in 2025
► Part 4: The best turntables in 2025
► Part 5: The best amplifiers of 2025
► Part 6: The best streamers in 2025
► Part 7: The best home theater speakers, soundbars & subwoofers in 2025
What a HiFi year lies behind us! And as soon as you listen to it, it’s history again. Our editorial team once again turned 2025 into a showcase of audiophile diversity: everything was represented, from innovative neck-mounted speakers for around 200 euros to extremely elaborately constructed high-end cars in the mid-five-figure range.Almost 140 test devices made it to our laboratory – that means around 17 components per issue!
In this section we summarize on Likehifi.de the best headphones of the test year 2025 – from the middle class to the uncompromising high-end reference.
The ranking is based on the final ratings of our tests from the AUDIO TEST magazine and here on Likehifi.de.
If you miss certain product categories, it could be because we have only tested them sporadically or it is tough to assign them to a specific group.Anyway, if your looking for the crème de la crème of hi-fi in 2025, you’ll find them here!
► After part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, Part 6 and Part 7 today continue with the best headphone tests of the year 2025.
Table of Contents
Bester headphones 2025 – Luxury class: Final D8000 DC Pro
(Image: Final / ATR)
The Pro version of the D8000 DC, with its slightly bassier and more open tuning, is aimed at listeners who prefer more dynamic and powerful playback.The sound appears tidy, energetic and three-dimensional. Despite a similar design, the D8000 DC Pro offers a noticeably different sound signature compared to the standard version.
Further information at: www.audiotra.de
► The complete test of the Final D8000 DC Pro headphones read in the AUDIO TEST issue 05/2025.
Bester headphones 2025 – Oberklasse: Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2
(Bild: Bowers & Wilkins)
With the Px8 S2, Bowers & Wilkins has succeeded in effectively further developing its own reference headphones. the shape and comfort have been intensively revised, but the biggest upgrade lies in the exceptional sound performance. The Bluetooth headphones sound open, wide and detailed – in a quality that we otherwise only know from wired models.
further information at: www.bowerswilkins.com
► The complete test from the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 headphones read the AUDIO TEST issue 08/2025 or here.
Bester headphones 2025 – Mid-range: Sony WH-1000XM6
(Image: Sony)
With the WH-1000XM6, Sony is once again raising the bar in the ANC area. Foldable design, smarter operation, stronger noise canceling and an even more harmonious sound make the Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones an all-round accomplished update – a clearly noticeable improvement over the previous model in terms of comfort and sound.
Further information at: www.sony.de
► You can read the complete test of the Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones in the AUDIO TEST issue 07/2025 or here.
Bonus: Headphone amplifier highlight 2025: Luxsin X9
(Image: Audiodomain / Luxsin)
The Luxsin X9 is an audiophile powerhouse that is in the top class in terms of technology and sound.The combination of high-quality converter technology, strong headphone amplification, intelligent DSP and excellent workmanship makes it an all-in-one talent for demanding desktop setups. Whether used as a headphone amplifier or preamplifier, the X9 consistently delivers a neutral, detailed and musically involving sound. What’s particularly remarkable is how it gives even inexpensive headphones a new shine. For audio enthusiasts looking for maximum flexibility and precision, the Luxsin X9 headphone amplifier is an excellent investment in listening pleasure.
Further information at: www.audiodomain.de/x9
► Read the complete test of the Luxsin X9 headphone amplifier in the AUDIO TEST issue 05/2025.
Anm. d. Red.: In der headphonesWe did not test any device in the entry-level class (up to 199 euros) in the calendar year 2025. That is why this price category is missing from this ranking.
Conclusion texts: Thomas Kirsche
► What is your personal headphones of the year? Feel free to write it to us in the comments of this post.
► Let’s continue with the annual review for 2025:
• Part 1: The best compact & bookshelf speakers 2025
• Part 2: The best Floorstanding speakers 2025
• part 3: The best Aktivlautsprecher 2025
• Part 4: The best Record player 2025
• Part 5: The best amplifiers of 2025
• Part 6: The best streamers in 2025
• Part 7: The best home theater products in 2025
• Part 9: The best music albums of 2025 (following)
+++ The new AUDIO TEST edition from December 15,2025 in stores or order it easily and conveniently at home: ► www.heftkaufen.de/audio-test
Or take out a subscription now and have the magazine delivered to your door on time and directly:
► www.heftkaufen.de/abo-audio-test +++
Image sources:
- 08_Headphones_Logo: Auerbach Verlag