Best Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones surround your ears and immerse you into audio. They tend to be tuned for audiophiles and include features such as active noise cancellation and control apps.
The Focal Bathys are a wireless speaker with ANC and a mobile application for tweaking the EQ and presets. They also support hi-res audio for wired listening through USB-C.
Sony WH-1000XM5
The WH-1000XM5 headphones from Sony are the latest addition to their top-of-the-line noise cancellation range. They feature a new design, enhanced ANC and a host of the same features that their predecessors had but with premium materials and slightly higher-quality sound.
They're extremely light for over-ear ANC headphones at 250 grams. They're very comfortable to wear for long periods of time, whether you're listening to a podcast or reading a book. The headband features a friction rod design similar to the Grado Labs SR60x, which will keep your ears from becoming too cold.
The WH-1000XM5 features a distinctive sound signature that has been designed to satisfy both people who listen to music for pleasure as well as serious audiophiles. It is tuned with a slight increase in bass, however it's not harsh or imposing. The earphones have a large and open soundstage, with good separation of instruments. This lets you hear the details in your music. The earcups also have touch controls, which are responsive and intuitive to use. Swipe up or down to adjust the volume. You can also swipe forward to listen to the next song and reverse to hear the previous track. The headphones are capable of connecting to two devices simultaneously and due to an inbuilt sensor, they automatically pause the playback if removed from your head. You can also turn on ambient mode by resting your palm on the right earcup that lets you hear what's going on around you without removing the headphones.
Other useful features include the ability to pair them with your voice assistant, Bluetooth low-energy, and support for high-resolution audio (via LDAC). The headphones come with a carry case made of high-end fabric and
headphones In ear a USB-C charging cable. The headphones work with the majority of Android and iOS smartphones and computers running Windows and macOS. The WH-1000XM5's battery life is exceptional. In our standard battery test we recorded 31 hours and 53 minute with the ANC on which was more than Sony's advertised 30 hours battery life.
The WH-1000XM5's microphone quality for voice calls is excellent and there's not any muffled or static-y audio in the background. Noise cancellation is also great and these headphones are perfect for public transportation or in the office.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 is a major upgrade from its predecessor, offering premium performance and features. The Bowers and Wilkins PX7 S2 is a premium model with a variety of features, including 24-bit wireless streaming with active noise cancellation that is optimized and clear voice calls on any compatible mobile device or tablet. The 40mm drivers, which are custom-designed and angled in each earcup, offer more immersive and focused listening experience. Six strategically placed microphones guarantee exceptional call clarity even in noisy environments. A remote inline and microphone lets you control your calls and music on any device compatible with it.
Like the PX7's original design, these
headphones for tv are a sleekly refined look with accent rings around each earcup and an elegant silver sheen on the headband. The earcups are cushioned by memory foam and fit comfortably on the cranium, but don't feel tight. The redesigned shape and form required a lot of time to perfect, providing a comfortable clamping force that doesn't push too hard even on my own cranium that is rotund.
At 10.8 ounces (or 307g) They're 2 ounces lighter than the Sony WH-1000XM5, as well as a touch smaller. They're light enough for carrying in your bag or backpack without any discomfort, and will stay comfortable in your hand during long listens. A strong hinge on the back of the headband allows you to fold them to make it easy to transport them in a protective case.
They're powered by Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX Adaptive support, which is good for both high-resolution audio and precise video sync. You can also play them wirelessly too, using the included 3.5mm cable that connects to a USB-C port on the right earcup. The headphone's status indicator is a useful gesture that flashes green to indicate rapid charging and solid blue when Bluetooth pairing is in use.
The B&W App offers the same features that the buttons on the hardware provide - bass and treble adjustments actions button assignments, wear detection, a cycle of ANC modes, etc. The app also displays an album cover and track's title when you play music from your iPhone. The most popular extras like music presets and a soundscapes mode aren't available, however.
Sennheiser HD 800 S
The HD 800 S is the successor of the iconic headphones by Sennheiser, and it is designed to meet most demanding requirements. Its construction technology has been optimized to provide an impressive detail resolution that encompasses all frequencies dynamic range, as well as stereo panorama. It provides the most realistic spatial audio you'll experience on open-back headphones.
The headphone has 300 ohms of impedance, which means a quality headphone amplifier is needed to drive it at desired levels without distortion. It is recommended to use a balanced connection, which can increase the output and enhance the quality of sound.
These headphones are made to be used by professionals and feature a sturdy metal frame that is adorned with plastics and leather padding. The design is minimalist and doesn't resemble the most expensive pair of
headphones apple, but they feel premium in the hand and are built well. They come with a carrying pouch as well as an additional audio cable, as well as an 1/4" to 1/8" adapter.
The HD 800 S has a neutral sound that reproduces vocals and instruments with a natural sound, even though they are a little lighter on bass. This is due to the open-back design creates a large and out-of-head, passive soundstage. The treble sound quality is superb, with only minor peaks and dips. The region of the treble is linear and you won't have issues with piercingsibilants or the upper bite of the drum snare.
They can still provide impact and dynamism when needed despite the lack of a loud low-end. They'll still be enjoyable for those who love listening to music with powerful basslines, but they may not sound like some of the competing models on this list such as the HiFiMan Arya.
These Sennheiser headphones have a fantastic mid-range. They're very straight and have a slight scoop in the upper mids which shouldn't be noticeable to most listeners. They also have the ability to reproduce precise time gradations in vocals, which is a big plus.
The HD 800 S is a pair of premium headphones that are perfect for audiophiles and professionals. Their exceptional sound quality and comfortable fitting make them a great option. They're expensive however, you're getting a pair of headphones that will last for many years to come and perform well in any setting.
Anker Soundcore Life Q20
The Anker Soundcore Life Q20 are a decent pair of headphones that will provide the perfect solution for anyone looking to pass the time or just wants an affordable pair of noise-cancelling
headphones In ear. The headphones come with a basic case that protects the headphones when you place them into the bag. Their battery can last multiple long-haul flights. Their ANC is capable of blocking out chattering passengers and engine rumbles from an airplane, although their audio profile is a little warmer and bass-heavy.
