All products featured are independently chosen by us. However, SoundGuys may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links. See our ethics statement.
Best headphone cases
Published onFebruary 13, 2025
Whether you’re getting your first pair of headphones or your fiftieth, build quality always comes into play. If you’re going to be commuting with a pair of headphones, will it hold up to everyday wear and tear? How much you pay for your headphones will likely dictate how well you care for them, but a solid headphone case is a good idea whether your cans are $1,000 or $20. When it comes to headphone cases, fit is the most important thing to take into account.
Editor’s note: This list of the best headphone cases was updated on February 13, 2025, to add all new top picks and FAQs and ensure the timeliness of the information within.
Given how much we invest in our headphones today — with premium models easily costing $300-500 or more — a good case is a relatively small investment for significant protection. Even for budget headphones, a case can prevent common issues like:
- Cable damage and tangling
- Scratches to the headband and ear cups
- Moisture damage from rain or spills
- Impact damage from drops or compression in bags
- Build-up of dirt and debris when not in use
- Battery drain for wireless models (by preventing accidental power-on)
While not everyone needs a premium case, even a basic protective case can significantly extend your headphones’ lifespan. Think of it like a phone case—sure, your device might survive without one, but why take the risk with something you use daily? For the price of a few coffee runs, you can significantly reduce the chance of having to replace your headphones prematurely.
Why is the Ginsco Universal Case the best headphone case for most people?
When it comes to protecting your headphones without breaking the bank, the Ginsco Universal Case strikes an ideal balance between protection and practicality. This hard shell case fits most popular over-ear and on-ear headphones with rotating ear cups, making it a versatile choice for everyday use.
The case’s construction provides solid protection against drops and bumps, while its water-resistant fabric exterior adds protection from rain and spills. A particularly thoughtful design element is the elastic strap inside, which keeps your headphones securely in place and prevents them from rattling around during transport.
What makes this case especially practical is its internal mesh pocket for storing cables and charging accessories. The nearly 360-degree zipper makes accessing your headphones quick and easy, and the included carrying strap adds convenience for those who prefer not to toss the case in a bag.
The case is particularly well-suited for popular headphone models from brands like Sony, JBL, and Soundcore, but it’s designed to accommodate most standard-sized headphones with folding capabilities. Just make sure your headphones can fold flat or compact — if they don’t, you might want to look at some of our larger case options below.
The LLTGEM case offers better protection for headphones
If you’ve invested in a quality pair of headphones, this robust case offers peace of mind protection without much bulk. The hard EVA shell construction provides excellent shock protection, while the semi-waterproof exterior adds an extra layer of security against unexpected splashes or light rain.
The plush inner villus lining prevents scratches, while the spacious dimensions accommodate even larger over-ear models like the Sony WH-1000XM5 or Bose QuietComfort Ultra. Despite its size, the case remains travel-friendly enough to slip into a backpack or carry-on luggage.
The case particularly shines for users of premium headphones who frequently travel or commute. Its reinforced construction protects against the kind of impact and compression that regularly damage headphones in packed bags. While it’s slightly larger than our top pick, the extra space proves useful for storing cables and accessories without cramping your headphones.
Why choose the Soundcore Official Headphones Case?
While most third-party cases try to be one-size-fits-all solutions, Soundcore’s official case demonstrates the advantages of brand-specific design. Originally made for Soundcore’s over-ear lineup (Space One, Q45, etc.), its precise dimensions and internal layout make it an excellent option even for other brands’ headphones of similar size.
The woven fabric exterior with a water-resistant coating provides both style and substance — it resists scratches from keys and coins while protecting against splashes. The 80 Hardness EVA shell offers serious impact protection without excessive bulk. The stretchy mesh pocket is perfectly sized for cables and accessories, while the main compartment’s dimensions prevent headphones from shifting during transport.
Best case for AirPods Max (because that “Smart Case” isn’t fooling anyone)
Let’s face it: Apple’s included “Smart Case” for the AirPods Max looks like a hastily designed handbag accessory that somehow made it into production. If you’ve spent $549 on premium headphones, you deserve better than what appears to be designer lingerie for your audio gear. Enter this proper hardshell case that actually, you know, protects your investment.
Unlike Apple’s minimalist approach, this case offers full coverage with a durable EVA exterior and a thoughtfully designed interior. The velvet lining includes a point-shaped shock-absorption pattern that cradles your AirPods Max more securely than Apple’s barely-there solution. And yes, it still supports sleep mode, so you won’t drain your battery while actually protecting your headphones.
The case’s dimensions provide a perfect fit for the AirPods Max without the awkward exposed headband that makes Apple’s case look like it got lost on the way to a Victoria’s Secret catalog. The double-zipper design allows for pressure-free opening, and the included carrying handle makes it actually portable — imagine that!
Best case for earbuds: GLCON small hard case
We’ve spent a lot of time discussing cases for premium headphones, but many of us are just trying to keep our everyday earbuds from becoming a tangled mess at the bottom of our bags. The GLCON Rectangle Case is a simple, effective solution that costs less than a fancy coffee but does exactly what it needs to.
What makes this case particularly practical is its compact size; it’s small enough to slip into a pocket but large enough to fit most wireless earbuds, including bulkier models with charging cases. The EVA material provides solid protection against crushing (goodbye, sitting-on-your-earbuds accidents), while the weather-resistant exterior keeps your gear safe from unexpected splashes.
The interior features a mesh pocket that’s perfect for keeping your charging cable separate from your earbuds, and the soft cloth lining prevents scratches. A nice touch is the ability to attach it to your bag with a carabiner, making it less likely you’ll leave your earbuds behind at a coffee shop or on your desk.
While it’s marketed for earbuds, this case has become a favorite among users for organizing other small tech accessories like USB drives and memory cards. At this price point, you might want to grab a couple — one for your earbuds and another for corralling those loose cables floating around in your bag.
Need a case to hold (almost) everything?
While dedicated headphone cases are great, sometimes you need a solution that handles all your tech accessories — from earbuds to charging bricks to that collection of cables you’re convinced you’ll need someday. The FYY Travel Organizer is that rare product that actually delivers on the promise of organizing your electronic chaos.
What makes this organizer particularly effective is its thoughtful double-layer design. It’s compact enough to slip into a backpack or suitcase but spacious enough to hold your essential gear. The waterproof Oxford exterior provides good protection, while the soft sponge interior keeps your devices from scratching against each other.
The internal layout is especially practical, with dedicated spaces for different cable lengths (heads up: the mesh pockets max out at 3-foot cables — longer ones need to go in the larger compartments). There’s enough room for your earbuds, chargers, power bank, and even a small mouse, all without creating that dreaded cable salad.
While it’s not a dedicated headphone case, it’s become a favorite among users who carry multiple audio devices — maybe a pair of over-ears for the office and earbuds for the gym. The smooth zipper action and sturdy hand strap make it easy to grab and go, though we wish it included a small carabiner for attaching to larger bags.
What you should know when looking at headphone cases
When shopping for a headphone case in 2025, there are several key factors to consider:
- Protection Level: Different cases offer varying levels of protection. Hard EVA shells provide excellent impact resistance for daily commuting, while water-resistant materials protect against unexpected weather. Consider your usage – a basic fabric case might suffice for home storage, but frequent travelers should invest in more robust protection.
- Size and Compatibility: Modern headphones come in various sizes and folding designs. Check your headphone’s dimensions and folding mechanism before purchasing. Many cases now list specific compatibility with popular models but pay attention to internal dimensions rather than just brand names.
- Organization Features: Today’s headphone cases often include dedicated spaces for modern necessities, such as charging cables, power banks, and wireless receivers. Consider whether you need additional storage for accessories or prefer a slim case just for the headphones.
- Build Quality: Look for reinforced stitching, quality zippers, and durable exterior materials. Well-designed internal securing mechanisms (like elastic bands or dedicated molding) prevent movement during transport.
- Price vs. Protection: While budget cases have improved significantly, premium cases offer additional features like weather sealing and impact zones. Consider your headphones’ value—expensive headphones deserve proportionate protection.
Frequently asked questions about headphone cases
Most high-end headphones now include carrying cases, though quality varies significantly. Notably, brands like Sony, Bose, and Sennheiser typically provide solid cases with their flagship models. However, many users still opt for aftermarket cases offering better protection or organization.
With more people using headphones during outdoor activities and commuting, water resistance has become increasingly important. Look for cases with at least basic splash protection, especially if you live in rainy climates or frequently travel.
Hard cases offer superior protection but take up more space. Soft cases are more portable but provide less impact protection. Consider your primary use case – commuters might prefer hard cases, while occasional travelers might opt for soft cases.