Best Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones surround your ears and immerse you in the audio. They are usually designed for audiophiles and come with features like active noise cancellation and control applications.
The Focal Bathys are a wireless device that comes with ANC and a mobile app to adjust the EQ and presets. They also support high-res audio for wired listening through USB-C.
Sony WH-1000XM5
The WH1000XM5 headphones from Sony are the latest model in their noise cancellation lineup. The headphones are updated with a new design and improved ANC. They also come with many of the same features, but with higher-end sound quality and better materials.
With only 250g, they are lightweight for over-ear ANC headsets. They're extremely comfortable to wear, even when you're reading or listening to a book. The headband is soft and it has a friction rod design like the Grado Labs SR60x that prevents your ears from becoming too cold.
With an audio quality that can satisfy people who listen to music for no reason and serious audiophiles, the WH-1000XM5's sonic signature is tuned to put a little emphasis on bass, but it isn't too loud or harsh. The earphones boast a huge and wide soundstage, as well as good instrument separation. This lets you hear the details in your music. The earcups also have control buttons that are responsive and intuitive to use. Swipe up or down to change the volume. You can also swipe forward to listen to the next song or backwards to hear the previous track. The headphones can be used for connecting to two devices at once and, thanks to a built-in sensor, they will automatically stop the playback when removed from your head. You can activate ambient mode by placing your hand on the right earcup. This lets you hear the sounds around you without having to remove the headphones.
Other helpful features include the possibility of pairing them with your voice assistant, Bluetooth low-energy, and support for high-resolution audio (via LDAC). They come with a sturdy carrying case made of top quality fabric, as well as a USB-C cable to charge. The shop headphones are compatible with Android and iOS smartphones as well as computers running Windows or macOS. The battery longevity of the WH1000XM5 is excellent. In our test of the standard battery, we got 31 hours and 53 minute with the ANC on which was more than Sony's advertised 30-hour battery life.
The WH-1000XM5's microphone quality for voice calls is excellent and there's no distorted or static-y audio in the background. The noise cancellation is top-quality and they're a perfect fit for public transport or the office.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 is a major improvement over its predecessor, offering high-end performance and features. It includes wireless streaming at 24 bits and optimized active noise cancellation, and clear voice quality on any compatible tablet or mobile phone. The 40mm drivers, which are custom-designed and angled to fit in each earcup, provide a more complete and focused listening experience. Six strategically placed microphones provide outstanding clarity for calls, even in noisy environments. A built-in remote and microphone lets you control calls and music from any device that is compatible.
The headphones have a sleek and refined look to the original PX7. They have accent rings around the earcups and a silver sheen on the headband. The memory foam earcups fit comfortably, but not too tightly on the cranium. The redesigned shape and form required a lot of time to perfect, and provides an easy clamping force that doesn't push too hard on my own rotund cranium.
At 10.8 pounds (or 307g) They're 2 ounces lighter that the Sony WH-1000XM5, and slightly smaller. They're light enough for carrying in your backpack or bag without much discomfort, and will remain comfortable in your hand during long listens. A strong hinge on the back of the headband allows you to fold them for easy transport in the protective case.
The headphones are powered by Bluetooth 5.2 and aptX Adaptive. This is great shop for headphones online high-quality audio as well for a tight video sync. The 3.5mm cord connects to the USB-C port on the right earcup. The status indicator on the headphone shop online is a nice addition. It flashes green to signal rapid charging and solid blue to signal Bluetooth pairing.
The B&W App has the same features that the buttons on the hardware provide including bass and treble adjustment as well as action button assignments wear detection, the ability to cycle through ANC modes and more. The app also shows an album cover and track's title when you play music on your iPhone. Some popular features like music presets and a soundscapes mode are missing, however.
Sennheiser HD 800 S
The HD 800 S is the successor of the iconic headphones from Sennheiser and is designed to meet the most demanding requirements. Its technical construction was designed to provide a breath-taking detail resolution that covers the entire frequency spectrum, dynamic range and stereo panorama. It's the most realistic spatial audio you can get from open-back headphones.
The headphone shop uk has a 300 ohm impedance, therefore a high-quality headphone online store amplifier is needed to ensure it is operating at the desired levels without distortion. It is recommended to utilize a balanced connection, which can increase the output and enhance the quality of sound.
The headphones are designed to be used by professionals and feature a sturdy metal frame that is adorned with leather and plastic. The design is simple and doesn't look like an expensive pair of headphones, but they feel premium in the palm and are well-built. They come with a carrying pouch and an extra audio cable, as well as an 1/4" to 1/8" adapter.
With a neutral sound profile the HD 800 S reproduces natural instruments and vocals, though they are a bit light on bass. The open-back design produces a spacious out-of-head soundstage. The treble is excellent, with minor peaks and drops. The treble region is also extremely smooth, meaning you'll not have issues piercing sibilants and the upper bite of a snare drum.
Despite not having a booming bass, they can still deliver impact and dynamism when needed. They will still be enjoyable for those who love listening to rock music that has powerful basslines, but they may not sound as enjoyable as some of the other models on this list, such as the HiFiMan Arya.
These Sennheiser headphones have a fantastic midrange. They are a linear pair with a slight incline in the upper mids, which shouldn't be noticed by the majority of listeners. They are also able to reproduce precise time gradations of vocals which is a huge benefit.
The HD 800 S is a pair of premium headphones that are ideal for professionals and Headphone Shop Uk audiophiles. They are a top pick due to their exceptional sound quality and comfortable fit. The headphones are expensive however they will last for years and perform well in any environment.
Anker Soundcore Life Q20
The Anker Soundcore Q20 is a great set of headphones for anyone looking to kill time or simply want an affordable set of headphones that block out noise. The headphones come with a basic case that will protect them when you put them in the bag. The battery will last for several long-haul flights. Their ANC does a great job of blocking out chatty seatmates and engine rumbles from the plane, but their audio profile is a little warmer and bass-heavy.
The Life Q20's controls can be easy to use and are well-marked. On the left earcup, you'll find buttons to power up and pair the headphones and to turn off or on active noise cancellation. On the right earcup, you'll find controls for playing back media, including a multi-function button which lets you turn on the voice assistant of your phone and enable Anker's BassUp feature (more on that later). You can also use the built-in microphone to make hands-free calls with your phone.
Anker's Soundcore Life Q20 headphones delivers a rich, immersive listening experience thanks to its custom 40mm dynamic driver, which is certified Hi-Res audio. These headphones have an amplitude range of up to 40 kHz. Their active noise cancelling is designed to filter out a broad range of low- and mid-frequency sound.
One thing to keep in mind about the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 is that it doesn't support aptX, which is disappointing. This means you will not be able to take advantage of the higher codes' lower latency while playing on your computer.
The Life Q20's headband as well as memory foam ear cups are soft enough to be worn for long periods of time without discomfort. The earcups are able to rotate and adjust to the unique shape of your head, Headphone shop uk so you can achieve a perfect fit. The included 3.5mm audio cable lets you to listen to music while charging the battery.
Over-ear headphones surround your ears and immerse you in the audio. They are usually designed for audiophiles and come with features like active noise cancellation and control applications.The Focal Bathys are a wireless device that comes with ANC and a mobile app to adjust the EQ and presets. They also support high-res audio for wired listening through USB-C.Sony WH-1000XM5
The WH1000XM5 headphones from Sony are the latest model in their noise cancellation lineup. The headphones are updated with a new design and improved ANC. They also come with many of the same features, but with higher-end sound quality and better materials.
With only 250g, they are lightweight for over-ear ANC headsets. They're extremely comfortable to wear, even when you're reading or listening to a book. The headband is soft and it has a friction rod design like the Grado Labs SR60x that prevents your ears from becoming too cold.
With an audio quality that can satisfy people who listen to music for no reason and serious audiophiles, the WH-1000XM5's sonic signature is tuned to put a little emphasis on bass, but it isn't too loud or harsh. The earphones boast a huge and wide soundstage, as well as good instrument separation. This lets you hear the details in your music. The earcups also have control buttons that are responsive and intuitive to use. Swipe up or down to change the volume. You can also swipe forward to listen to the next song or backwards to hear the previous track. The headphones can be used for connecting to two devices at once and, thanks to a built-in sensor, they will automatically stop the playback when removed from your head. You can activate ambient mode by placing your hand on the right earcup. This lets you hear the sounds around you without having to remove the headphones.
Other helpful features include the possibility of pairing them with your voice assistant, Bluetooth low-energy, and support for high-resolution audio (via LDAC). They come with a sturdy carrying case made of top quality fabric, as well as a USB-C cable to charge. The shop headphones are compatible with Android and iOS smartphones as well as computers running Windows or macOS. The battery longevity of the WH1000XM5 is excellent. In our test of the standard battery, we got 31 hours and 53 minute with the ANC on which was more than Sony's advertised 30-hour battery life.
The WH-1000XM5's microphone quality for voice calls is excellent and there's no distorted or static-y audio in the background. The noise cancellation is top-quality and they're a perfect fit for public transport or the office.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 is a major improvement over its predecessor, offering high-end performance and features. It includes wireless streaming at 24 bits and optimized active noise cancellation, and clear voice quality on any compatible tablet or mobile phone. The 40mm drivers, which are custom-designed and angled to fit in each earcup, provide a more complete and focused listening experience. Six strategically placed microphones provide outstanding clarity for calls, even in noisy environments. A built-in remote and microphone lets you control calls and music from any device that is compatible.
The headphones have a sleek and refined look to the original PX7. They have accent rings around the earcups and a silver sheen on the headband. The memory foam earcups fit comfortably, but not too tightly on the cranium. The redesigned shape and form required a lot of time to perfect, and provides an easy clamping force that doesn't push too hard on my own rotund cranium.
At 10.8 pounds (or 307g) They're 2 ounces lighter that the Sony WH-1000XM5, and slightly smaller. They're light enough for carrying in your backpack or bag without much discomfort, and will remain comfortable in your hand during long listens. A strong hinge on the back of the headband allows you to fold them for easy transport in the protective case.
The headphones are powered by Bluetooth 5.2 and aptX Adaptive. This is great shop for headphones online high-quality audio as well for a tight video sync. The 3.5mm cord connects to the USB-C port on the right earcup. The status indicator on the headphone shop online is a nice addition. It flashes green to signal rapid charging and solid blue to signal Bluetooth pairing.
The B&W App has the same features that the buttons on the hardware provide including bass and treble adjustment as well as action button assignments wear detection, the ability to cycle through ANC modes and more. The app also shows an album cover and track's title when you play music on your iPhone. Some popular features like music presets and a soundscapes mode are missing, however.
Sennheiser HD 800 S
The HD 800 S is the successor of the iconic headphones from Sennheiser and is designed to meet the most demanding requirements. Its technical construction was designed to provide a breath-taking detail resolution that covers the entire frequency spectrum, dynamic range and stereo panorama. It's the most realistic spatial audio you can get from open-back headphones.
The headphone shop uk has a 300 ohm impedance, therefore a high-quality headphone online store amplifier is needed to ensure it is operating at the desired levels without distortion. It is recommended to utilize a balanced connection, which can increase the output and enhance the quality of sound.
The headphones are designed to be used by professionals and feature a sturdy metal frame that is adorned with leather and plastic. The design is simple and doesn't look like an expensive pair of headphones, but they feel premium in the palm and are well-built. They come with a carrying pouch and an extra audio cable, as well as an 1/4" to 1/8" adapter.
With a neutral sound profile the HD 800 S reproduces natural instruments and vocals, though they are a bit light on bass. The open-back design produces a spacious out-of-head soundstage. The treble is excellent, with minor peaks and drops. The treble region is also extremely smooth, meaning you'll not have issues piercing sibilants and the upper bite of a snare drum.
Despite not having a booming bass, they can still deliver impact and dynamism when needed. They will still be enjoyable for those who love listening to rock music that has powerful basslines, but they may not sound as enjoyable as some of the other models on this list, such as the HiFiMan Arya.
These Sennheiser headphones have a fantastic midrange. They are a linear pair with a slight incline in the upper mids, which shouldn't be noticed by the majority of listeners. They are also able to reproduce precise time gradations of vocals which is a huge benefit.
The HD 800 S is a pair of premium headphones that are ideal for professionals and Headphone Shop Uk audiophiles. They are a top pick due to their exceptional sound quality and comfortable fit. The headphones are expensive however they will last for years and perform well in any environment.
Anker Soundcore Life Q20
The Anker Soundcore Q20 is a great set of headphones for anyone looking to kill time or simply want an affordable set of headphones that block out noise. The headphones come with a basic case that will protect them when you put them in the bag. The battery will last for several long-haul flights. Their ANC does a great job of blocking out chatty seatmates and engine rumbles from the plane, but their audio profile is a little warmer and bass-heavy.
The Life Q20's controls can be easy to use and are well-marked. On the left earcup, you'll find buttons to power up and pair the headphones and to turn off or on active noise cancellation. On the right earcup, you'll find controls for playing back media, including a multi-function button which lets you turn on the voice assistant of your phone and enable Anker's BassUp feature (more on that later). You can also use the built-in microphone to make hands-free calls with your phone.
Anker's Soundcore Life Q20 headphones delivers a rich, immersive listening experience thanks to its custom 40mm dynamic driver, which is certified Hi-Res audio. These headphones have an amplitude range of up to 40 kHz. Their active noise cancelling is designed to filter out a broad range of low- and mid-frequency sound.
One thing to keep in mind about the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 is that it doesn't support aptX, which is disappointing. This means you will not be able to take advantage of the higher codes' lower latency while playing on your computer.
The Life Q20's headband as well as memory foam ear cups are soft enough to be worn for long periods of time without discomfort. The earcups are able to rotate and adjust to the unique shape of your head, Headphone shop uk so you can achieve a perfect fit. The included 3.5mm audio cable lets you to listen to music while charging the battery.