Wired headphones are cool again. Just ask Zoë Kravitz, Bella Hadid or Lily-Rose Depp.
Thanks to a little bit of nostalgia, mixed in with affordability, wired headphones are growing in popularity as more and more people online start to reevaluate their screen time.
Analysis by Cupid PR, a Digital PR consultancy, found that searches for “wired headphones” reached 2.6 million in the past month, rising 68% month-on-month.
“Consumers are questioning whether newer tech is always better, TikTok is making older products feel cool again, and shoppers are looking at cheaper alternatives in categories dominated by more expensive wireless products,” Sophie Rhone, founder of Cupid PR, said.
The trend has also been strengthened by celebrity style cues, making it all the more enticing. Here’s where to shop the trend with the best brands.
The best wired headphones to buy in 2026
Apple earphones
Once seen as outdated after the rise of AirPods, Apple’s wired headphones have become part of a wider “anti-polished” aesthetic online.
They’re considered to be a retro, low-maintenance and more intentional option than wireless alternatives.
The classic EarPods also come in various connector options, so you can pick the right one for your phone or laptop.
Apple EarPods (USB-C)
$29
Apple EarPods (Lightning Connector)
$29
Apple EarPods (3.5mm Headphone Plug)
$29
Sony earphones
Another fan favourite is the Sony in-ear headphones, which reviewers rave about for their great battery life and comfort.
“Comfortable and functional, these earphones are great,” said one reviewer.
Sony Bluetooth Wireless In-Ear Headphones
$49.95 $64.95
Sony Black In Ear Headphones MDREX15AP
$19.95 $29.95
Sony White In Ear Headphones MDRE9LPW
$9.95 $14.95
Philips earphones
Philips offers an even lower price point if you’re still hesitant to commit to the trend.
“Surprisingly good quality. Cheap and decently noise-cancelling,” said a reviewer.
Philips TAE1105 Wired Gel Earbuds (White)
$8.95
Philips TAUE101 Wired Earbuds (White)
$8.95
Why trust WHO Shopping?
WHO has been covering celebrity culture, red carpet moments and entertainment news for decades. Our shopping team works alongside our entertainment editors to identify the exact products behind the looks everyone’s talking about, from awards season glam to off-duty essentials.
We regularly consult stylists, makeup artists, trainers and industry insiders to verify product details and understand why these items perform under real-world conditions. When we recommend something, it’s because it’s genuinely relevant to the moment, not just trending.
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