Headphones

Best Headphones & Where to Buy Them in the US: Walmart, ESR Gear, and Other Top Retailers

Why your choice of headphones matters more than you think

When was the last time a pair of headphones made you stop and notice music, podcasts, or a conference call? The right headphones do more than play sound — they shape how you experience every audio moment. Whether you want a noise-canceling cocoon on a cross-country flight, a studio-accurate pair for mixing, or comfortable cans for marathon gaming sessions, the market today has options for every budget and lifestyle. It pays to know where to look, what to compare, and which stores carry what you need.

Walmart: Big selection and value for everyday buyers

Walmart has long expanded beyond groceries and household goods into a wide audio selection, offering mainstream and pro-level headphones for the budget-conscious shopper. From Bluetooth earpieces and office headsets to refurbished pro gear, Walmart often stocks recognizable names and practical models that meet daily needs without breaking the bank.

What you can find at Walmart

If you're browsing Walmart you'll encounter office-friendly headsets like the Poly Voyager Legend single-ear Bluetooth headset and Poly EncorePro HW725 over-the-head models that are built for long calls and clear voice pickup. Walmart also lists refurbished pro items like the Jabra Pro 925 and the Jabra Evolve2 65 with USB-C charging stands — a smart move if you want higher-end hardware for less. For studio fans, bundles such as the AKG K701 open-back studio reference headphones paired with a USB microphone bundle show Walmart’s willingness to cater to creative users as well.

Who should shop at Walmart for headphones?

If you’re a commuter, a remote worker, or someone who wants dependable gear for everyday use, Walmart is a solid starting point. You’ll find everything from hands-free earpieces to binaural noise-canceling mics, and even high-performance in-ear monitors like NXEARS Basso IEMs for listeners who want detailed sound on a budget. Walmart’s strength is breadth — it’s a one-stop place when you’re comparison shopping across price points.

ESR Gear: Accessory-focused options for AirPods and earbuds

ESR Gear is more niche but highly relevant if your life revolves around Apple AirPods or similar earbuds. Where Walmart covers broad headphone categories, ESR Gear specializes in protective and functional accessories that extend the life and convenience of true wireless earbuds.

ESR’s standout products

Products like the Orbit Hybrid Snap-and-Charge bundles for AirPods Pro (2019, 2022, 2023) and the Orbit Hybrid Snap-and-Charge bundle for AirPods 4 are designed for people who want cases that do more than look pretty. These accessories often include snap-on charging capabilities, ruggedized protection, and stylish color options that let you personalize AirPods while keeping them powered and safe.

Why accessories matter

Think of accessories as the insurance policy for your earbuds. A good case prevents dings and keeps charging contacts clean, while purpose-built bundles can make carrying and powering your gear easier. If you already own premium earbuds, investing in a high-quality protective bundle can save you from replacing the earbuds themselves down the road.

Other US stores you should check out

Want options beyond Walmart and ESR Gear? There are several US retailers worth a browse depending on your needs. Each has its own strengths — from deep catalogs to specialist expertise or pro-level equipment.

Best Buy

Best Buy is a go-to for consumers who like trying gear in-store. They carry mainstream consumer brands like Sony, Bose, and Sennheiser alongside pro-focused models from AKG and Shure. You’ll find solid mid-range offerings and premium models, and staff can often help demo ANC features or sound signatures so you can hear the difference before buying.

Amazon

Amazon advantage is choice and user reviews. You can compare dozens of models, read hundreds of customer experiences, and see price fluctuations day-to-day. If you’re hunting for obscure IEMs, replacement cables, or lesser-known boutique brands, Amazon is likely to have them.

B&H Photo, Crutchfield, and specialty retailers

For studio-grade and audiophile gear, B&H Photo and Crutchfield are excellent. They cater to creators and serious listeners, stocking reference headphones, balanced cables, and studio accessories. These retailers are great if you need technical advice or are assembling a recording or podcasting setup.

How to pick headphones: features that really matter

Picking headphones isn’t just about brand prestige or price tags — it’s about matching features to how you listen. Here are the key aspects to weigh so you end up with gear that complements your life, not complicates it.

Wired vs. wireless: which is right for you?

Wireless headphones give freedom from tangles and make commuting easier, while wired cans avoid battery anxiety and can offer better sound for the price. If you value mobility and convenience, wireless with Bluetooth is likely the winner. If fidelity and studio monitoring are priorities, a wired pair with a quality cable remains the gold standard.

Noise cancellation vs. passive isolation

Active noise canceling (ANC) is invaluable on airplanes or noisy open offices; it electronically cancels constant background noise. Passive isolation — thick ear pads or in-ear seals — works without power and often provides natural sound blocking. Choose ANC for travel and commuting; choose isolation for a simpler, often less expensive setup.

Comfort and fit

Comfort determines how long you’ll keep wearing a pair. Look for soft ear pads, a headband that distributes weight, and clamping force that keeps the headphones on without squeezing. For earbuds, secure tips and lightweight housings reduce ear fatigue during long listening sessions.

Sound signature: bright, warm, or balanced?

Sound signature is personal. Want punchy bass for pop and hip-hop? Look for a bass-forward profile. Prefer clarity and detail for acoustic or classical music? Seek a balanced or analytical signature. Studio headphones aim for accuracy so mixes translate to other systems, while consumer models often tune sound for emotion and impact.

Connectivity and features

Think about whether you need Bluetooth multipoint, a dedicated app with EQ, wired analog inputs, or USB audio for computers. Some headsets on Walmart’s listings, like the Jabra Evolve2 65, include USB-C options and docking stands that simplify desk setups. Features like built-in microphones, voice assistant support, and touch controls also shape daily usability.

Brands to watch: Poly, Jabra, AKG and the rest

The HTML data highlights several brands you’ll commonly find across major stores. Poly (formerly Plantronics), Jabra, AKG, and boutique IEM makers each bring their own strengths to different listening scenarios.

Poly and Jabra: communication-first gear

Poly has a legacy in office communications, offering headsets like the Voyager Legend and EncorePro series, which prioritize clear voice pickup and comfort for long wear. Jabra, with models like the Evolve2 65 and Pro 925, bridges office and mobile workflows, delivering strong microphones, battery life, and connectivity options ideal for hybrid workers.

AKG and studio-grade headphones

AKG’s K701 open-back reference headphones are a staple for mixing and critical listening. Open-back designs provide a wider soundstage, making them ideal for studio work and at-home listening where isolation isn’t required.

IEMs and niche brands

In-ear monitors like the NXEARS Basso cater to audiophiles and performers who need detail and isolation in a compact form. The IEM market is varied, and many boutique makers focus on cable quality, driver configuration, and tuning that competes with full-size headphones.

Refurbished and restored gear: when it makes sense

Refurbished headphones and headsets can be a smart way to access higher-tier audio at a lower cost. Items listed as “restored” or “refurbished” — such as Jabra Pro 925 refurbished — typically undergo manufacturer or certified refurbisher testing to ensure they meet performance standards.

Pros and cons of refurbished purchases

The upside is obvious: lower prices for mature models with proven reliability. The downside can be shorter warranty periods and potential cosmetic wear. If you’re buying refurbished for studio work or heavy daily use, confirm build condition and any remaining warranty to avoid surprises.

Money-saving tips and smart shopping strategies

You don’t have to pay full price for great sound. With a few strategies you can find deals on high-quality headphones without sacrificing features.

Watch for bundles and seasonal events

Stores like Walmart and retailers across the US often bundle accessories with headphones or include refurbished models at sharp discounts — like headset bundles or an AKG headphone paired with a USB mic. Seasonal sales, holiday promotions, and clearance sections are excellent times to strike.

Consider open-box and previous-generation models

Previous-generation flagship models often drop significantly in price when newer versions arrive, yet their performance can be nearly identical for everyday listeners. Open-box items at specialty stores or certified refurbished units can be a savvy middle ground between new and used.

A practical buying checklist to simplify your decision

Before you click buy, run through this short checklist to ensure you’re choosing the right pair for your life:

1) Define your primary use: commuting, office calls, studio mixing, gaming, or casual listening. 2) Decide on wired or wireless based on mobility and battery tolerance. 3) Evaluate comfort: try to demo if possible or check weight and pad materials. 4) Prioritize features: ANC, mic quality, app support, and inputs (USB-C, 3.5mm). 5) Compare across retailers like Walmart for value, ESR Gear for accessories, and specialty shops for pro gear. 6) Consider refurbished if you want higher-end gear at lower cost.

Making the final choice: match sound, budget, and lifestyle

There’s no single “best” headphone — only the best one for how you live and listen. If calls and comfort matter most, a Poly or Jabra headset found at major retailers might be the perfect fit. If your priority is protecting your AirPods and adding on-the-go power, ESR Gear’s Orbit bundles are worth a look. For studio use, turn to AKG and the specialist retailers that stock balanced, neutral headphones.

Quick recap before you shop

Start with a clear use case, compare sound signature and comfort, and check a mix of retailers: mass-market stores like Walmart for variety and value, accessory specialists like ESR Gear for protection and charging solutions, and niche or pro retailers for studio-grade equipment. Don’t forget to consider refurbished options if you want more performance per dollar.

Final thoughts

Buying headphones is a personal journey that blends technology, taste, and budget. Luckily, US stores today cover every corner of that triangle — Walmart for broad, practical offerings; ESR Gear for accessories that keep earbuds functional and stylish; and specialty retailers for high-end results. Listen to what you love, try before you commit when possible, and use the checklist above to make a confident purchase that will improve how you experience sound every day.

Conclusion: Choosing the best headphones comes down to clarity about how you’ll use them, which features you can’t live without, and where you prefer to shop. From affordable office headsets and refurbished pro models to protective accessories for AirPods and studio-grade cans, the US market gives you lots of good options. Take a little time to compare models, read reviews, and if possible, demo them — your ears will thank you.