Best Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones totally encase your ears, allowing you to be immersed in sound. They are typically designed for audiophiles and include features such as active noise cancellation and control apps.
The Focal Bathys is a wireless speaker that comes with ANC and a mobile application to alter the EQ and presets. They also support high-res audio through USB-C for wired listening.
Sony WH-1000XM5
The WH1000XM5 headphones from Sony are the latest upgrade in their noise cancellation line-up. The headphones are updated with a new design and improved ANC. They also come with many of the same features, but with a higher-end sound quality and superior materials.
At only 250g,
headphones for running they are lightweight for over-ear ANC headsets. They're very comfortable to wear, even if you're reading or listening the audiobook. The headband is a friction-rod design that is similar to the Grado Labs SR60x, which will keep your ears from becoming too cold.
The WH-1000XM5 comes with a distinct sonic signature that is designed to satisfy both casual music lovers as well as serious audiophiles. It is tuned with a slight focus in bass, however it's not abrasive or blazing. They feature a wide and spacious soundstage that has good instrument separation that lets you hear specifics in your music. The earcups come with touch controls that are intuitive and responsive. Swipe forward to play the next track, then back to hear the previous one, and up and down to adjust the volume. The headphones can connect to two devices simultaneously and will automatically stop playback whenever you remove them from your head, thanks to the built-in sensor. You can also activate the ambient mode by placing your palm on the right earcup, which allows you to be aware of what's happening around you without taking off the headphones.
Other features that are useful include the ability to pair them with your voice assistant, Bluetooth low-energy, and support for high-resolution audio (via LDAC). They come with a durable carrying case made of premium fabric and an USB-C cable for charging. The headphones work with most Android and iOS smartphones and computers operating Windows and macOS. The battery longevity of the WH1000XM5 is excellent. In our test of the standard battery we had 31 hours and 53 minutes with the ANC on, which was better than Sony's advertised 30 hour battery life.
The WH1000XM5 has a great mic for voice calls. There is no muffled or static audio in the background. The noise cancellation is top-notch, and they're a good fit for public transport or the office.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 provides a significant improvement over its predecessor. It has a host of new features and improved performance. It includes wireless streaming at 24 bits, optimized active noise cancellation, as well as clear voice quality on any compatible mobile phone or tablet. The 40mm drivers that are custom-designed for the device are carefully angled inside each earcup for an enhanced, more immersive listening experience. Six strategically placed microphones ensure exceptional call clarity even in noisy environments. A built-in microphone and remote lets you control calls and music on any device compatible with it.
The headphones have a elegant and sleek design to the original PX7. They feature accent rings that wrap around the earcups as well as a silver sheen for the headband. The earcups are cushioned with memory foam and fit comfortably on the cranium, but they never feel tight. The redesigned form and shape took a long time to perfect, providing an easy clamping force that isn't too hard even on my own rotund cranium.
At 10.8 pounds (or 307g) They're 2 ounces lighter than Sony WH-1000XM5, and are a touch smaller. The headphones are lightweight enough to be carried in a bag or backpack and remain in place for long listening sessions. The headband can be folded by using a sturdy hinge on the back.
They're powered by Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX Adaptive support, which is good for both high-resolution audio and fast video sync. You can play the
headphones for ipad wired, too, with the included 3.5mm cable that connects to the USB-C port on the right earcup. The headphone's status indicator is a useful gesture that flashes green to indicate a rapid charge, and solid blue when Bluetooth pairing is active.
The B&W App provides the same control options that the hardware onboard buttons offer such as bass and treble adjustments as well as action button assignments, wear detection, a cycle of ANC modes and more. When you listen to music on your iPhone the app will display album cover and track titles. The most popular extras like music presets and a soundscapes mode are not available, however.
Sennheiser HD 800 S
The HD 800 S is the successor to the legendary headphones from Sennheiser and is designed to meet the highest expectations. Its engineering was designed to provide stunning detail resolution that covers the entire frequency spectrum, dynamic range and stereo panorama. It delivers the most realistic sound you'll hear on headphones with open backs.
The headphone has 300 ohms of impedance, which means a quality headphone amplifier will be needed to ensure it is operating at the desired levels without distortion. It is recommended to utilize a balanced connection, which will double the output and improve the quality of sound.
These headphones are designed for professional use. They feature a metal frame and a mixture of leather and plastic padding. The design is simple and doesn't look like an expensive pair of
Headphones For Running, but they feel luxurious in the palm and are built to last. They come with a carrying pouch and an extra audio cable, as well as a 1/4" to 1/8" adapter.
The HD 800 S has a neutral sound that reproduces instruments and vocals in a natural way, even however they are light on bass. This is due to the open-back design creates a large and out-of-head, passive soundstage. Their treble performance is excellent, with only minor peaks and dips. The treble area is extremely linear, which means you'll not have issues hitting sibilants or the upper impact of the drum snare.
Despite the lack of a booming bass, they can still deliver impact and dynamism when it is needed. They'll still be enjoyable for those who enjoy listening to music with punchy basslines, but they might not be like some of the other models on this list such as the HiFiMan Arya.
The Sennheiser headphones have a great midrange. They are extremely linear and have a slight scoop in the upper mids which shouldn't be noticeable to most listeners. They are also able to reproduce precise time gradations in vocals which is a huge benefit.
The HD 800 S is a pair of headphones that are perfect for professionals and audiophiles. They're a top choice because of their outstanding audio quality and comfortable fit. They're expensive, but you're paying for headphones that will last for years to be able to perform well in any environment.
Anker Soundcore Life Q20
The Anker Soundcore Life Q20 are a great pair of headphones that can be a great choice for anyone who wants to kill some time or simply needs a cheap pair of noise-cancelling headphones. The headphones come with a basic bag which protects them when you throw them in the bag. The battery will last for several long-haul flights. The ANC can effectively block out noisy passengers and engine rumbles. However, their audio profile is a bit heavy and warm.
The Life Q20's controls can be easy to navigate and well-marked. On the left ear cup there are buttons for powering up and pairing the headphones, as well as for turning off or on active noise cancellation. On the right earcup, you'll find controls for playback of media.