Best Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones are designed to surround your ears and immerse you into music. They are usually made for audiophiles, and include features such as active noise cancellation and control applications.
The Focal Bathys are a wireless speaker with ANC and a mobile app for tweaking the EQ and presets. They also support high-res audio through USB-C for wired listening.
Sony WH-1000XM5
The WH-1000XM5 headphones are Sony's latest addition to their top-of-the-line noise cancellation line-up. They sport a new design, upgraded ANC, and many 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 250g. They're very comfortable to wear, even if you're reading or listening to a book. The headband is a friction-rod design that is similar to the Grado Labs SR60x, which prevents your ears getting too cold.
With an audio quality that is able to please those who enjoy music casually and audiophiles, WH-1000XM5's signature is tuned to put a little emphasis on bass, but not excessively loud or harsh. The earphones feature a wide and wide soundstage, as well as good instrument separation. This allows you to listen to the subtleties of your music. The earcups also have control buttons that are responsive and intuitive to use. Swipe up or down to alter the volume. You can also swipe forward to listen to the next track, reverse to hear the previous track. The headphones can connect to two devices simultaneously, and will automatically stop playback when you take them off your head, thanks to the built-in sensor. You can turn on ambient mode by placing your palm on the right earcup. This allows you to listen to the sounds around you without removing the headphones.
They can also be connected with your voice assistant. Bluetooth low-energy is also available, as is high-resolution audio (via LDAC). They come with a durable carrying case made of premium fabric and a USB-C cable to charge. The headphones are compatible with Android and iOS smartphones,
headphones On Sale as well as computers operating Windows or macOS. The battery life of the WH-1000XM5 is impressive. In our standard battery test, we got 31 hours and 53 minutes with the ANC on which was higher than Sony's advertised 30 hours battery life.
The WH-1000XM5's microphone performance on voice calls is excellent, and there's no muffled or static-y sound in the background. The noise cancellation performance is top-quality and they're a perfect option for public transport as well as the office.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 is a major improvement over its predecessor, providing top-quality performance and features. It includes wireless streaming at 24 bits, optimized active noise cancellation, and clear voice quality on any compatible mobile phone or tablet. The custom-designed 40mm drivers are precisely positioned inside each earcup to create a more focused, deep listening experience. Six strategically placed microphones ensure excellent call clarity, even in noisy environments. A built-in microphone and remote allows you to control calls and music on any compatible device.
As with the PX7's original design The headphones sport 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 sit comfortably on the cranium, yet never feel tight. The redesigned form and shape required a lot of time to perfect, providing an easy clamping force that doesn't press too hard, even on my own cranium that is rotund.
At 10.8 pounds (or 307g) They weigh 2 ounces lighter than the Sony WH-1000XM5, as well as slightly thinner. They're light enough to carry in your backpack or bag without much discomfort, and will stay comfortable in your hand during long listens. A strong hinge on the back of the headband lets you to fold them up for easy transport in the protective case.
They're powered by Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX Adaptive support, which is good for high-resolution audio as well as tight video sync. You can also play them wired too, using the included 3.5mm cable that connects to the USB-C port on the right earcup. The status indicator on the headphone is a nice touch. It flashes green to signal rapid charging, and solid blue to indicate Bluetooth pairing.
The B&W App offers the same controls that the onboard buttons in the hardware offer including bass and treble adjustment as well as action button assignments wear detection, cycling through ANC modes as well as other features. The app also shows an album cover and track's title when you play music from your iPhone. However, popular extras like music presets or a soundscapes feature are not available.
Sennheiser HD 800 S
The HD 800 S is the successor to the legendary headphones made by Sennheiser and is meant to meet the highest demands. Its engineering was designed to give a breath-taking detail resolution that covers the entire frequency spectrum, dynamic range and stereo panorama. It also provides the most realistic spatial sound you'll ever hear in a pair of open-back
headphones noise cancelling.
The headphone has an impedance of 300 ohms which means it requires a top-quality headphone amplifier to drive it at the desired levels without distortion. A balanced connection is recommended as this will double the power output and increase the overall sound quality.
These headphones are made for professional use. They feature a metal frame, and a mix of plastic and leather padding. The design is simple and doesn't look like a fancy pair of headphones, however they feel luxurious in the hands and are built well. They come with a carry pouch as well as an additional audio cable and a 1/4" to 1/8" adapter.
With a neutral sound profile the HD 800 S reproduces natural instruments and vocals, even though they are somewhat light on bass. This is due to the open-back design creates a large and out-of-head soundstage. The treble is excellent, with minor drops and peaks. The Treble region also is linear, so you will not be able to deal with piercingsibilants or the upper bite of a drum snare.
Despite the lack of a loud bass, they can still provide dynamism and impact when it is needed. These headphones are still great for those who like rock music that has punchy bass, but may not sound as great as the other models on this list.
These Sennheiser headphones have a wonderful mid-range. They are linear with a slight scoop on the upper mids that won't be noticed by the majority of 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 professionals and audiophiles. They're a top choice because of their excellent sound quality and a comfortable fit. They are expensive however, you're getting a pair of headphones that will last for many years to be able to perform at their best in any setting.
Anker Soundcore Life q20
The Anker Soundcore Life Q20 are a decent pair of headphones that will do the trick for anyone looking to relax or just wants an affordable pair of noise-cancelling headphones. The headphones come with a simple bag that protects them when you put them in the bag. The battery will last for several long-haul flights. The ANC is a great way to block out loud passengers and engine rumbles, but their audio profile is a bit heavy and warm.
The Life Q20's controls are simple to use and are well-marked. On the left earcup, you'll see buttons to pair and power up the headphones on sale,
minecraftcommand.science, as well as turning on or off the active noise cancellation. On the right earcup, you'll find controls for
Headphones On Sale playing back media.