Best Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones completely encapsulate your ears, allowing you to be immersed in sound. They are typically made for audiophiles and come with features such as active noise cancelling and control apps.
The Focal Bathys is a wireless pair that includes ANC, 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 WH-1000XM5 is Sony's latest addition to their top-of-the-line noise cancellation line-up. They have a fresh new design, enhanced ANC and a host of the same features that their predecessors had but with premium materials and slightly more premium sound quality.
At just 250g, they're a light weight for over-ear ANC headsets. They're extremely comfortable to wear, no matter if you're reading or listening an audiobook. The headband features a friction rod design similar to the Grado Labs SR60x, which prevents your ears getting too cold.
The WH-1000XM5 features a distinctive sound signature created to please casual music lovers as well as serious audiophiles. It is tuned with a slight focus in bass, but it is not harsh or blazing. They have a wide and spacious soundstage that has excellent instrument separation that lets you hear specifics in your music. The earcups also feature control buttons that are easy to use. Swipe up or down to adjust the volume. You can also swipe forward to listen to the next track or backwards to hear the prior track. The headphones can be connected to two devices simultaneously and will automatically stop playback whenever you remove them from your head due to the built-in sensor. You can also turn on the ambient mode by placing your palm on the right earcup, which allows you to hear what's going on around you without removing the headphones.
Other useful features include the ability to pair 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 an USB-C charging cable. The headphones wireless apple are compatible with Android and iOS smartphones as well as computers operating Windows or macOS. The WH-1000XM5's life expectancy is superb. In our standard battery test we recorded 31 hours and 53 minute with the ANC on which was higher than Sony's advertised 30 hour battery life.
The WH-1000XM5's microphone quality for calls is superb, and there's no muffled or static-y sound in the background. The noise cancellation is top-quality, and they're a good option for public transport as well as the office.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 provides a significant improvement over its predecessor. It comes with a variety of new features and improved performance. The Bowers and Wilkins PX7 S2 comes with premium performance and features like 24-bit wireless streaming and active noise cancellation optimized, and clear voice calls on any compatible mobile device or tablet. The custom-designed 40mm drivers are carefully placed inside each earcup to provide a more focused, deep listening experience. Six carefully placed microphones offer exceptional call clarity even in noisy environments. An inline remote and microphone lets you manage your calls and music on any compatible device.
The headphones sport a similar elegant and sleek design to the original PX7. They feature accent rings around the earcups and a silver-colored headband. The memory foam earcups fit snugly, but not too tightly on the cranium. The new design and shape took many months to perfect, and provides an incredibly comfortable clamping force that isn't too hard, even on my own cranium that is rotund.
They weigh 2 ounces less (or 307g) and a bit thinner than the Sony WH1000XM5. The headphones are lightweight enough to fit in a bag or backpack and remain in place throughout long listening sessions. A sturdy hinge on the back of the headband enables you to fold them for easy transport in the protective case.
The headphones are powered by Bluetooth 5.2, with aptX Adaptive. This is ideal for high-resolution audio aswell as tight video sync. You can also play them wired too, using the included 3.5mm cable that connects to an USB-C port located on the right earcup. The headphone's status indicator is a helpful touch with a green flash to indicate a rapid charge, and solid blue when Bluetooth pairing is in progress.
The B&W App has the same control options that the onboard buttons in the hardware offer including bass and treble adjustment as well as action button assignments wear detection, the ability to cycle through ANC modes as well as other features. The app also shows an album cover and track's name when you play music on your iPhone. Some popular features like music presets, soundscapes and music mode are missing, however.
Sennheiser HD 800 S
The HD 800 S is a successor to the iconic Sennheiser headphones and is designed to meet the highest expectations. Its construction technology has been optimized to achieve a detail resolution that encompasses all the spectrum of frequencies, dynamic range, and stereo panorama. It also offers the most realistic sound you'll ever hear in a pair of open-back headphones.
The headphone has 300 ohms of impedance, so a good headphone amplifier is required to ensure it is operating at the desired levels without distortion. It is recommended to use a balanced connection, which will double the output and improve the quality of sound.
These headphones are designed for professional use. They have a metal frame and a mix of leather and plastic padding. The design is rather minimalist and doesn't appear like a fancy pair of headphones, however they feel premium in the palm and are well-built. They come with a carry case, an additional audio cable, and an adapter from 1/4" to 1-/8" adapter.
With an unison sound profile, the HD 800 S reproduces natural instruments and vocals, even though they are a bit light on bass. The open-back design produces an expansive, out-of-head soundstage. The treble is excellent with minor drops and peaks. The Treble region also is linear which means you won't have issues with piercingsibilants or the upper bite of a drum snare.
They can still deliver impact as well as dynamism and impact when needed despite the lack of a booming low-end. They'll still be enjoyable for those who enjoy listening to music with strong basslines, however they may not sound as enjoyable as some of the models on this list, such as the HiFiMan Arya.
In the mids, these Sennheiser headphones are hard to beat. They are a linear pair with an incline on the upper mids, which shouldn't be noticed by the majority of listeners. They also reproduce precise time gradations of vocals which is a huge benefit.
The HD 800 S is a pair of exceptional headphones that are ideal for professionals and audiophiles. They are a top pick because of their outstanding sound quality and a comfortable fit. They're expensive however, you're getting a pair of headphones apple that will last for many years to be able to perform to their best in any situation.
Anker Soundcore Life Q20
The Anker Soundcore Life Q20 are a good pair of headphones that can do the trick for anyone who needs to relax or simply wants a low-cost pair of noise-cancelling headphones gym. The headphones with bluetooth come with a simple bag which protects them when you throw them in the bag. Their battery can last multiple long-haul flights. The ANC can effectively block out noisy seatmates and engine rumbles, but their audio profile is a little heavy and warm.
The controls on the Life Q20 are well-marked and easy to use. On the left earcup, you'll see buttons for pairing and powering up the headphones, as well as turning on and off the active noise cancellation. On the right earcup, you'll find controls for playing back media. This includes a multi-function control that activates your phone's voice assistance and turns on Anker BassUp (more about it later). The built-in mic can be used to make calls using hands-free technology.
Anker's Soundcore Life Q20 headphones provide an immersive and rich listening experience, thanks to the custom 40mm dynamic drivers that provide certified Hi-Res Audio. These headphones have a treble range that reaches up to 40 kHz. Their active noise cancelling is designed to filter out a wide range of mid- and gaming low-frequency sound.
One thing to remember about the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 is that they do not support aptX, which is disappointing. This means that you won't be able to take advantage of the superior codec's lower latency when you're gaming on your PC.
In terms of comfort In terms of comfort, the Life Q20's memory foam ear cups and headband are comfortable enough to wear for long periods of time without causing discomfort. The earcups can rotate to adjust to your unique head shape. You can also enjoy your music with a 3.5mm cable and a microUSB connector is provided for charging the battery.
Over-ear headphones completely encapsulate your ears, allowing you to be immersed in sound. They are typically made for audiophiles and come with features such as active noise cancelling and control apps.The Focal Bathys is a wireless pair that includes ANC, 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 WH-1000XM5 is Sony's latest addition to their top-of-the-line noise cancellation line-up. They have a fresh new design, enhanced ANC and a host of the same features that their predecessors had but with premium materials and slightly more premium sound quality.
At just 250g, they're a light weight for over-ear ANC headsets. They're extremely comfortable to wear, no matter if you're reading or listening an audiobook. The headband features a friction rod design similar to the Grado Labs SR60x, which prevents your ears getting too cold.
The WH-1000XM5 features a distinctive sound signature created to please casual music lovers as well as serious audiophiles. It is tuned with a slight focus in bass, but it is not harsh or blazing. They have a wide and spacious soundstage that has excellent instrument separation that lets you hear specifics in your music. The earcups also feature control buttons that are easy to use. Swipe up or down to adjust the volume. You can also swipe forward to listen to the next track or backwards to hear the prior track. The headphones can be connected to two devices simultaneously and will automatically stop playback whenever you remove them from your head due to the built-in sensor. You can also turn on the ambient mode by placing your palm on the right earcup, which allows you to hear what's going on around you without removing the headphones.
Other useful features include the ability to pair 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 an USB-C charging cable. The headphones wireless apple are compatible with Android and iOS smartphones as well as computers operating Windows or macOS. The WH-1000XM5's life expectancy is superb. In our standard battery test we recorded 31 hours and 53 minute with the ANC on which was higher than Sony's advertised 30 hour battery life.
The WH-1000XM5's microphone quality for calls is superb, and there's no muffled or static-y sound in the background. The noise cancellation is top-quality, and they're a good option for public transport as well as the office.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 provides a significant improvement over its predecessor. It comes with a variety of new features and improved performance. The Bowers and Wilkins PX7 S2 comes with premium performance and features like 24-bit wireless streaming and active noise cancellation optimized, and clear voice calls on any compatible mobile device or tablet. The custom-designed 40mm drivers are carefully placed inside each earcup to provide a more focused, deep listening experience. Six carefully placed microphones offer exceptional call clarity even in noisy environments. An inline remote and microphone lets you manage your calls and music on any compatible device.
The headphones sport a similar elegant and sleek design to the original PX7. They feature accent rings around the earcups and a silver-colored headband. The memory foam earcups fit snugly, but not too tightly on the cranium. The new design and shape took many months to perfect, and provides an incredibly comfortable clamping force that isn't too hard, even on my own cranium that is rotund.
They weigh 2 ounces less (or 307g) and a bit thinner than the Sony WH1000XM5. The headphones are lightweight enough to fit in a bag or backpack and remain in place throughout long listening sessions. A sturdy hinge on the back of the headband enables you to fold them for easy transport in the protective case.
The headphones are powered by Bluetooth 5.2, with aptX Adaptive. This is ideal for high-resolution audio aswell as tight video sync. You can also play them wired too, using the included 3.5mm cable that connects to an USB-C port located on the right earcup. The headphone's status indicator is a helpful touch with a green flash to indicate a rapid charge, and solid blue when Bluetooth pairing is in progress.
The B&W App has the same control options that the onboard buttons in the hardware offer including bass and treble adjustment as well as action button assignments wear detection, the ability to cycle through ANC modes as well as other features. The app also shows an album cover and track's name when you play music on your iPhone. Some popular features like music presets, soundscapes and music mode are missing, however.
Sennheiser HD 800 S
The HD 800 S is a successor to the iconic Sennheiser headphones and is designed to meet the highest expectations. Its construction technology has been optimized to achieve a detail resolution that encompasses all the spectrum of frequencies, dynamic range, and stereo panorama. It also offers the most realistic sound you'll ever hear in a pair of open-back headphones.
The headphone has 300 ohms of impedance, so a good headphone amplifier is required to ensure it is operating at the desired levels without distortion. It is recommended to use a balanced connection, which will double the output and improve the quality of sound.
These headphones are designed for professional use. They have a metal frame and a mix of leather and plastic padding. The design is rather minimalist and doesn't appear like a fancy pair of headphones, however they feel premium in the palm and are well-built. They come with a carry case, an additional audio cable, and an adapter from 1/4" to 1-/8" adapter.
With an unison sound profile, the HD 800 S reproduces natural instruments and vocals, even though they are a bit light on bass. The open-back design produces an expansive, out-of-head soundstage. The treble is excellent with minor drops and peaks. The Treble region also is linear which means you won't have issues with piercingsibilants or the upper bite of a drum snare.
They can still deliver impact as well as dynamism and impact when needed despite the lack of a booming low-end. They'll still be enjoyable for those who enjoy listening to music with strong basslines, however they may not sound as enjoyable as some of the models on this list, such as the HiFiMan Arya.
In the mids, these Sennheiser headphones are hard to beat. They are a linear pair with an incline on the upper mids, which shouldn't be noticed by the majority of listeners. They also reproduce precise time gradations of vocals which is a huge benefit.
The HD 800 S is a pair of exceptional headphones that are ideal for professionals and audiophiles. They are a top pick because of their outstanding sound quality and a comfortable fit. They're expensive however, you're getting a pair of headphones apple that will last for many years to be able to perform to their best in any situation.
Anker Soundcore Life Q20
The Anker Soundcore Life Q20 are a good pair of headphones that can do the trick for anyone who needs to relax or simply wants a low-cost pair of noise-cancelling headphones gym. The headphones with bluetooth come with a simple bag which protects them when you throw them in the bag. Their battery can last multiple long-haul flights. The ANC can effectively block out noisy seatmates and engine rumbles, but their audio profile is a little heavy and warm.
The controls on the Life Q20 are well-marked and easy to use. On the left earcup, you'll see buttons for pairing and powering up the headphones, as well as turning on and off the active noise cancellation. On the right earcup, you'll find controls for playing back media. This includes a multi-function control that activates your phone's voice assistance and turns on Anker BassUp (more about it later). The built-in mic can be used to make calls using hands-free technology.
Anker's Soundcore Life Q20 headphones provide an immersive and rich listening experience, thanks to the custom 40mm dynamic drivers that provide certified Hi-Res Audio. These headphones have a treble range that reaches up to 40 kHz. Their active noise cancelling is designed to filter out a wide range of mid- and gaming low-frequency sound.
One thing to remember about the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 is that they do not support aptX, which is disappointing. This means that you won't be able to take advantage of the superior codec's lower latency when you're gaming on your PC.
In terms of comfort In terms of comfort, the Life Q20's memory foam ear cups and headband are comfortable enough to wear for long periods of time without causing discomfort. The earcups can rotate to adjust to your unique head shape. You can also enjoy your music with a 3.5mm cable and a microUSB connector is provided for charging the battery.