hure’s cheapest noise-cancelling headphones have some improvements over the top model, including the fact that they fold up and can finally be fast-charged.

Overall, the Aonic 40s are impressive headphones that make full use of their many features. They’re easy to use, versatile, and are highly customizable to your own tastes. For Bluetooth headphones at this price point, the A40s are a solid choice for anybody who wants a seamless on-the-go listening experience. Shure never ceases to impress me.

The $249 Shure Aonic 40 is a standout noise-canceller with a weight issue.

In many respects the Shure Aonic 40 are really respectable over-ear headphones. They offer super battery life. The app is dazzling in its customisation to EQ, creating a listen to suit your preferences. There's a sturdy carry case included. The cost is fair too, undercutting the larger Aonic 50.

The Shure AONIC 40 offer impressive audio and great customisation options but are held back but comfort issues and disappointing mic quality

The Shure AONIC 40 trims some of the excess of the AONIC 50, which makes for a reasonably priced, great-sounding pair of Bluetooth headphones. Mediocre and ANC and durability concerns notwithstanding, this is definitely one to consider.

Shure’s Aonic 40 is a more affordable option in the company’s noise-canceling lineup, offering a host of features and doing some of them well. Impressive battery life, serviceable ANC and a degree of customization are offset by inconsistent audio performance and an overall lack of polish when it comes to finer details like fit and convenience. For those reasons, the Aonic 40 tends to blend into the crowd rather than stand apart.

Shure's wireless Aonic 40 headphones offer accurate, highly customizable audio performance and multiple connectivity methods, but their noise-cancellation capabilities aren't quite in line with their price.

When you consider the Aonic 40’s highly competitive $249 price and its many great features, they should be a slam-dunk recommendation. But their uncomfortable headband gives us pause. Still, if you get a chance to try them on and the narrow headband doesn’t bother you, you should seriously consider them.