Best Over-Ear
jbl headphonesOver-ear headphones totally encase your ears to immerse you in the sound. They are usually tuned 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 application to adjust the EQ and presets. They also support high-res audio through USB-C for wired listening.
Sony WH-1000XM5
The WH1000XM5 headphones by Sony are the latest upgrade in their noise cancelling lineup. They feature a new design, upgraded ANC, and many of the same features that their predecessors had but with higher-end materials and a slightly more premium sound quality.
At only 250g, they're a light weight for over-ear ANC headsets. They're very comfortable to wear for long periods of time, even when you're listening to a podcast or book. The headband is soft, and it features an ear-friction rod design similar to the Grado Labs SR60x that prevents your ears from becoming too cold.
The WH-1000XM5 has a sonic signature that is designed to satisfy both casual music lovers as well as serious audiophiles. It is tuned with a slight emphasis in bass, but it is not harsh or imposing. They have a large and wide soundstage, with excellent instrument separation that allows you to hear the subtleties in your music. The earcups are also equipped with touch controls that are easy to use. Swipe forward to go to the next track, reverse to hear the previous one as well as up and down to adjust the volume. The headphones can be used for connecting to two devices at once and, thanks to a built-in sensor, they will automatically pause the playback if removed from your head. You can also switch on ambient mode by placing your palm on the right ear cup and allowing you to be aware of what's happening around you without removing the headphones.
They can also be linked with your voice assistant. Bluetooth low-energy is also supported, 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 work with the majority of Android and iOS smartphones, as well as with computers that run Windows and macOS. The WH-1000XM5's battery capacity is awe-inspiring. In our test we were able get 31 hours and 53 minutes with ANC activated which is more than Sony's advertised battery duration of 30 hours.
The WH-1000XM5's microphone performance on calls is exceptional and there's no distorted or static-y sound in the background. The noise cancellation is excellent, and they're a good choice for public transport or the office.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 is a major upgrade over its predecessor. It comes with a variety of new features and improved performance. It includes wireless streaming at 24 bits, optimized active noise cancellation,
noise cancelling headphones as well as clear voice quality on any compatible mobile phone or tablet. Its custom-designed 40mm drivers are carefully placed inside each earcup to create a more focused, deep listening experience. Six strategically placed microphones provide exceptional call clarity even in noisy surroundings. And an inline remote and microphone let you control your calls and music on any compatible device.
Like the PX7's original design These headphones have sleek and elegant 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 they never feel tight. The new design and shape was refined over a period of time and provides an incredibly comfortable clamping pressure that doesn't force into my rotund skull.
At 10.8 grams (or
noise cancelling headphones 307g), they're 2 ounces lighter than the Sony WH-1000XM5, and a touch thinner. The headphones are lightweight enough to fit in a backpack or bag and are comfortable to wear for long listening sessions. A sturdy hinge on the back of the headband allows you to fold them to make it easy to transport them in a protective case.
The headphones are powered by Bluetooth 5.2 with the aptX Adaptive. This is ideal for high-resolution audio aswell as a fast video sync. You can play them wired too, using the included 3.5mm cable that connects to a USB-C port on the right earcup. The headphone's status indicator is an excellent touch, flashing green to indicate a rapid charge, and solid blue when Bluetooth pairing is in use.
The B&W app has similar controls to the buttons on the hardware including bass and treble adjustment as well as action button assignment wear detection, the ability to cycle through ANC modes, and more. The app also displays an album cover and track's title when you play music using your iPhone. However, some popular features such as music presets and soundscapes feature are not available.
Sennheiser HD 800 S
The HD 800 S is a successor to the famous Sennheiser headphones and was made to meet the highest expectations. The technical design was designed to provide an incredible detail resolution that encompasses the entire frequency spectrum, dynamic range and stereo panorama. It's the most realistic sound you can get from open-back headphones.
The headphone has an impedance of 300 ohms so it requires a high-quality headphone amplifier to operate at the right levels, without distortion. It is recommended to make use of a balanced connection which will increase the output and boost the sound quality.
The headphones are designed for professional use and have a sturdy metal frame with a mix of leather and plastic. The design is rather minimalist and doesn't appear like an expensive pair of headphones, however they feel premium in the hands and are built to last. They come with a carrying pouch and an additional audio cable as well as a 1/4" to 1/8" adapter.
With an unison sound profile, the HD 800 S reproduces natural instruments and vocals, though they are light in bass. This is because the open-back design provides a wide and out-of-head soundstage. The treble sound quality is superb with only minor dips and peaks. The Treble region also has a linearity and you won't have any issues with piercingsibilants or the upper bite of the drum snare.
Despite not having a high-pitched bass, they still produce a punch and dynamism when required. These headphones are still enjoyable for those who like rock music that has punchy bass however they might not be as impressive as other models on this list.
In the mids they are Sennheiser headphones are difficult to beat. They are extremely linear 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 of vocals, which is a big benefit.
The HD 800 S is a pair of headphones that are perfect for audiophiles and professionals. Their outstanding sonic performance and comfortable fit make them an excellent choice. They are expensive, but they'll last for a long time and will perform in any environment.
Anker Soundcore Life Q20
The Anker Soundcore Q20 is a good pair of headphones for those looking to pass the time or just want an affordable set of
noise cancelling headphones. They come with a basic pouch that will give them some protection when you throw them in a bag and their battery can last for multiple long haul flights. Their ANC does a good job of blocking out chattering seatmates and engine rumbles when on the plane, but their audio profile is a little warm and bass-heavy.
The Life Q20's controls can be easy to use and clearly marked. On the left earcup, there are buttons for pairing and powering up the headphones as well as turning on and off the active noise cancellation.
