Best Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones totally encase your ears and allow you to fully immerse in sound. They are usually tuned for audiophiles and include features such as active noise cancelling headphones cancellation and control applications.
The Focal Bathys is a wireless speaker that includes 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 from Sony are the latest model in their noise cancelling lineup. The headphones have a new design and have improved ANC. They also have many of the same features, but with a superior sound quality and higher-end materials.
They're light for over-ear ANC headphones, with 250g. They're extremely comfortable to wear, no matter if you're listening to or reading an audiobook. The headband is soft, and it has a friction rod design like the Grado Labs SR60x that prevents your ears from getting too cold.
The WH-1000XM5 features a distinctive sonic signature that is designed to satisfy both casual music lovers as and serious audiophiles. It is tuned with a slight increase in bass, however it's not harsh or imposing. The earphones boast a huge and wide soundstage, as well as excellent instrument separation. This lets you listen to the subtleties of your music. The earcups have touch controls that are simple and responsive. Swipe forward to go to the next track, back to hear the previous one as well as up and down to adjust the volume. The headphones bluetooth can connect to two devices at once and will automatically stop playback when you take them off your head, thanks to the built-in sensor. You can activate the ambient mode by placing your palm on the right earcup. This allows you to listen to the sounds around you without having to take off the Headphones for sleeping.
Other helpful features include the possibility of pairing them with your voice assistant, Bluetooth low-energy, and support for hi-res audio (via LDAC). The headphones come with a carrying case made of top quality fabric and a USB-C charging cable. The headphones work with Android and iOS smartphones, as well as computers running Windows or macOS. The battery longevity of the WH-1000XM5 is excellent. In our standard battery test, we got 31 hours and 53 minute with the ANC on which was more than Sony's advertised 30-hour battery life.
The WH1000XM5 is a great microphone that can be used for voice calls. There is no static or muffled audio in the background. The noise cancellation is top-notch, and they're a good option for public transport as well as the office.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 is a major upgrade from its predecessor, offering top-quality performance and features. The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 comes with premium performance and features like 24-bit wireless streaming, active noise cancellation optimized, and clear voice calls on any compatible mobile or tablet. The 40mm drivers, which are custom-designed and angled in each earcup, provide a more immersive and focused listening experience. Six carefully placed microphones offer exceptional call clarity even in noisy surroundings. An inline remote and microphone lets you manage your music and calls on any compatible device.
Like the PX7's original design, these headphones are sleek and elegant, with accent rings around each earcup as well as a silver sheen on the headband. The memory foam earcups fit snugly, but not too tightly on the cranium. The new shape and form was perfected over many months, and delivers a soft clamping pressure that isn't hard on my own rotund skull.
They weigh 2 ounces less (or 307g) and a bit thinner than the Sony WH1000XM5. The headphones are light enough to be carried in a backpack or bag and remain in place during long listening sessions. A sturdy hinge on the back of the headband lets you to fold them to make it easy to transport them in a protective case.
The headphones are powered by Bluetooth 5.2, with aptX Adaptive. This is ideal for high-quality audio as well for a tight video sync. You can play the headphones wired, too, with the included 3.5mm cable that connects to an USB-C port located on the right earcup. The status indicator on the headphone is a nice feature. It flashes green to signal rapid charging, and solid blue to signal Bluetooth pairing.
The B&W App provides the same control options that the buttons on the hardware provide such as bass and treble adjustments 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 name when you play music on your iPhone. However, popular extras like music presets or soundscapes feature aren't available.
Sennheiser HD 800 S
The HD 800 S is a successor headphones for sleeping to the legendary Sennheiser headphones and was made to meet the highest expectations. The technical design was designed to give stunning detail resolution that covers the entire frequency spectrum, dynamic range and stereo panorama. It also offers the most realistic spatial sound you'll ever experience in a pair of open-back headphones.
The headphone has an impedance of 300 ohms, which means it requires a top-quality headphone amplifier to operate at the right levels, without distortion. It is recommended to use a balanced connection, which will increase the output and enhance the quality of sound.
These headphones are designed for professional use. They feature a metal frame and a mix of plastic and leather padding. The design is minimalist and doesn't resemble the most expensive pair of headphones, however they feel luxurious in the hand and are built to last. They come with a carrying case, Headphones for Sleeping an additional audio cable, and 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. This is because the open-back design provides a wide and out-of-head, passive soundstage. The treble quality is excellent, with minor drops and peaks. The treble region is also extremely linear, which means you'll not have issues piercing sibilants and the upper impact of a snare drum.
They can still provide impact as well as dynamism and impact when required, despite the absence of a booming low-end. They'll still be a great choice for those who like listening to music with powerful basslines, but they may not sound as enjoyable as some of the competing models on this list, such as the HiFiMan Arya.
In the mids, these Sennheiser headphones are difficult to beat. They're very straight, with a slight scoop in the upper mids which shouldn't be noticeable to most listeners. They also can reproduce precise time gradations, which is a nice benefit.
The HD 800 S is a pair of premium headphones on sale that are perfect for professionals and audiophiles. They are a top pick because of their outstanding sound quality and a comfortable fit. The headphones are costly, but they'll last for many years and perform in any situation.
Anker Soundcore Life q20
The Anker Soundcore Life Q20 are a good pair of headphones that can provide the perfect solution for anyone who needs to pass the time or simply wants a low-cost pair of noise-cancelling headphones. They come with a basic pouch that provides protection when you throw them into your bag, and their battery can last for multiple long haul flights. The ANC is a great way to block out loud passengers and engine rumbles. However, their audio quality is a bit warmer and bass-heavy.
The Life Q20's controls are simple 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 media playback controls. This includes a multi-function key that activates your phone's voice assistance and turns on Anker BassUp (more about this later). The built-in mic can be used to make phone calls hands-free.
Anker's Soundcore Life Q20 headphones deliver an immersive and deep listening experience, thanks to the custom 40 mm dynamic drivers that offer certified Hi-Res Audio. The headphones have a treble range that reaches up to 40 kHz. Their active noise cancellation is specifically designed to block out a wide range of low- and mid-frequency sound.
Anker Soundcore Q20 doesn't support aptX. This is a disappointment. This means that you will not be able take advantage of the superior codes' lower latency while gaming on your computer.
The Life Q20's headband as well as memory foam ear cups are soft enough to wear for long periods of time without discomfort. The ear cups also be rotated to accommodate your individual head shape. You can also listen to music with a 3.5mm cable and a microUSB cable is included to charge the battery.
Over-ear headphones totally encase your ears and allow you to fully immerse in sound. They are usually tuned for audiophiles and include features such as active noise cancelling headphones cancellation and control applications.
The Focal Bathys is a wireless speaker that includes 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 from Sony are the latest model in their noise cancelling lineup. The headphones have a new design and have improved ANC. They also have many of the same features, but with a superior sound quality and higher-end materials.
They're light for over-ear ANC headphones, with 250g. They're extremely comfortable to wear, no matter if you're listening to or reading an audiobook. The headband is soft, and it has a friction rod design like the Grado Labs SR60x that prevents your ears from getting too cold.
The WH-1000XM5 features a distinctive sonic signature that is designed to satisfy both casual music lovers as and serious audiophiles. It is tuned with a slight increase in bass, however it's not harsh or imposing. The earphones boast a huge and wide soundstage, as well as excellent instrument separation. This lets you listen to the subtleties of your music. The earcups have touch controls that are simple and responsive. Swipe forward to go to the next track, back to hear the previous one as well as up and down to adjust the volume. The headphones bluetooth can connect to two devices at once and will automatically stop playback when you take them off your head, thanks to the built-in sensor. You can activate the ambient mode by placing your palm on the right earcup. This allows you to listen to the sounds around you without having to take off the Headphones for sleeping.
Other helpful features include the possibility of pairing them with your voice assistant, Bluetooth low-energy, and support for hi-res audio (via LDAC). The headphones come with a carrying case made of top quality fabric and a USB-C charging cable. The headphones work with Android and iOS smartphones, as well as computers running Windows or macOS. The battery longevity of the WH-1000XM5 is excellent. In our standard battery test, we got 31 hours and 53 minute with the ANC on which was more than Sony's advertised 30-hour battery life.
The WH1000XM5 is a great microphone that can be used for voice calls. There is no static or muffled audio in the background. The noise cancellation is top-notch, and they're a good option for public transport as well as the office.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 is a major upgrade from its predecessor, offering top-quality performance and features. The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 comes with premium performance and features like 24-bit wireless streaming, active noise cancellation optimized, and clear voice calls on any compatible mobile or tablet. The 40mm drivers, which are custom-designed and angled in each earcup, provide a more immersive and focused listening experience. Six carefully placed microphones offer exceptional call clarity even in noisy surroundings. An inline remote and microphone lets you manage your music and calls on any compatible device.
Like the PX7's original design, these headphones are sleek and elegant, with accent rings around each earcup as well as a silver sheen on the headband. The memory foam earcups fit snugly, but not too tightly on the cranium. The new shape and form was perfected over many months, and delivers a soft clamping pressure that isn't hard on my own rotund skull.
They weigh 2 ounces less (or 307g) and a bit thinner than the Sony WH1000XM5. The headphones are light enough to be carried in a backpack or bag and remain in place during long listening sessions. A sturdy hinge on the back of the headband lets you to fold them to make it easy to transport them in a protective case.
The headphones are powered by Bluetooth 5.2, with aptX Adaptive. This is ideal for high-quality audio as well for a tight video sync. You can play the headphones wired, too, with the included 3.5mm cable that connects to an USB-C port located on the right earcup. The status indicator on the headphone is a nice feature. It flashes green to signal rapid charging, and solid blue to signal Bluetooth pairing.
The B&W App provides the same control options that the buttons on the hardware provide such as bass and treble adjustments 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 name when you play music on your iPhone. However, popular extras like music presets or soundscapes feature aren't available.
Sennheiser HD 800 S
The HD 800 S is a successor headphones for sleeping to the legendary Sennheiser headphones and was made to meet the highest expectations. The technical design was designed to give stunning detail resolution that covers the entire frequency spectrum, dynamic range and stereo panorama. It also offers the most realistic spatial sound you'll ever experience in a pair of open-back headphones.
The headphone has an impedance of 300 ohms, which means it requires a top-quality headphone amplifier to operate at the right levels, without distortion. It is recommended to use a balanced connection, which will increase the output and enhance the quality of sound.
These headphones are designed for professional use. They feature a metal frame and a mix of plastic and leather padding. The design is minimalist and doesn't resemble the most expensive pair of headphones, however they feel luxurious in the hand and are built to last. They come with a carrying case, Headphones for Sleeping an additional audio cable, and 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. This is because the open-back design provides a wide and out-of-head, passive soundstage. The treble quality is excellent, with minor drops and peaks. The treble region is also extremely linear, which means you'll not have issues piercing sibilants and the upper impact of a snare drum.
They can still provide impact as well as dynamism and impact when required, despite the absence of a booming low-end. They'll still be a great choice for those who like listening to music with powerful basslines, but they may not sound as enjoyable as some of the competing models on this list, such as the HiFiMan Arya.
In the mids, these Sennheiser headphones are difficult to beat. They're very straight, with a slight scoop in the upper mids which shouldn't be noticeable to most listeners. They also can reproduce precise time gradations, which is a nice benefit.
The HD 800 S is a pair of premium headphones on sale that are perfect for professionals and audiophiles. They are a top pick because of their outstanding sound quality and a comfortable fit. The headphones are costly, but they'll last for many years and perform in any situation.
Anker Soundcore Life q20
The Anker Soundcore Life Q20 are a good pair of headphones that can provide the perfect solution for anyone who needs to pass the time or simply wants a low-cost pair of noise-cancelling headphones. They come with a basic pouch that provides protection when you throw them into your bag, and their battery can last for multiple long haul flights. The ANC is a great way to block out loud passengers and engine rumbles. However, their audio quality is a bit warmer and bass-heavy.
The Life Q20's controls are simple 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 media playback controls. This includes a multi-function key that activates your phone's voice assistance and turns on Anker BassUp (more about this later). The built-in mic can be used to make phone calls hands-free.
Anker's Soundcore Life Q20 headphones deliver an immersive and deep listening experience, thanks to the custom 40 mm dynamic drivers that offer certified Hi-Res Audio. The headphones have a treble range that reaches up to 40 kHz. Their active noise cancellation is specifically designed to block out a wide range of low- and mid-frequency sound.
Anker Soundcore Q20 doesn't support aptX. This is a disappointment. This means that you will not be able take advantage of the superior codes' lower latency while gaming on your computer.
The Life Q20's headband as well as memory foam ear cups are soft enough to wear for long periods of time without discomfort. The ear cups also be rotated to accommodate your individual head shape. You can also listen to music with a 3.5mm cable and a microUSB cable is included to charge the battery.