Best Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones cover your ears and plunge you in music. They are typically made for audiophiles and have features like active noise cancelling and control apps.
The Focal Bathys are a wireless device that comes with ANC and a mobile app for tweaking the EQ and presets. They also support high-res audio via USB-C for wired listening.
Sony WH-1000XM5
The WH-1000XM5 headphones bose from Sony are the latest addition to their top-of-the-line noise cancellation line-up. The headphones have a new design and enhanced ANC. They also come with many of the same features, but with higher-end sound quality and superior materials.
They're lightweight for over-ear ANC headphones at 250 grams. They're extremely comfortable to wear, even when you're reading or listening the audiobook. The headband features a friction rod design, similar to the Grado Labs SR60x, which keeps your ears from getting too cold.
With a sound quality that can satisfy casual music listeners and Headphones Gym serious audiophiles, the WH-1000XM5's sonic signature is tuned to have a slight focus on bass but is not overpowering or harsh. The earphones have a large and wide soundstage, as well as good separation of instruments. This allows you to be able to hear the finer details of your music. The earcups also feature touch controls, which are easy to use. You can swipe forward to access the next track, then back to hear the previous track, and up and down to regulate the volume. The headphones are capable of connecting to two devices simultaneously and thanks to a built-in sensor, they automatically stop the playback when removed from your head. You can also turn on the ambient mode by placing your palm on the right earcup, which allows you to be aware of what's happening around you without taking off the headphones.
Other useful features include the possibility of pairing them with your voice assistant, Bluetooth low-energy, and support for high-resolution audio (via LDAC). The headphones come with a carry case made of high-end fabric and the USB-C charging cable. 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 life is superb. In our battery test we had 31 hours and 53 minute with the ANC on, which was better than Sony's advertised 30 hour battery life.
The WH-1000XM5's microphone performance on voice calls is excellent and there's no distorted or static-y sounding background. The noise cancellation is top-notch 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, delivering top-quality performance and features. It includes wireless streaming at 24 bits, optimized active noise cancellation, and crystal clear voice quality on any compatible mobile phone or tablet. The 40mm drivers, which are designed specifically and angled to fit in each earcup, offer more deep and focused listening experience. Six strategically placed microphones provide excellent call clarity, even in noisy environments. And an inline remote and microphone let you control your calls and music using any compatible device.
These headphones bluetooth have a similar elegant and refined design as the original PX7. They feature accent rings around the earcups, as well as a silver sheen on the headband. The memory foam earcups fit well, but not too tightly on the cranium. The redesigned shape and form required a lot of time to perfect, delivering an easy clamping force that isn't too hard even on my own rotund cranium.
At 10.8 grams (or 307g), they're 2 ounces lighter that the Sony WH-1000XM5, as well as a touch smaller. They're light enough to fit in your backpack or bag without much discomfort, and will remain comfortably in place 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 an enclosed case.
They're powered by Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX Adaptive support which is great for high-resolution audio and fast video sync. You can play them wirelessly too, using the included 3.5mm cable that connects to a USB-C port on the right earcup. The status indicator on the headphone is a nice feature. It flashes green to show rapid charging and solid blue to indicate Bluetooth pairing.
The B&W App provides the same controls that the hardware onboard buttons offer - bass and treble adjustments, action button assignments wear detection, the ability to cycle through ANC modes and more. The app also displays an album cover and track title when you play music on your iPhone. Some popular features like music presets, soundscapes and music mode aren't available, however.
Sennheiser HD 800 S
The HD 800 S is a successor to the legendary Sennheiser headphones and is made to meet the highest expectations. Its construction technology is optimized to give an impressive detail resolution that encompasses all frequencies as well as dynamic range and stereo panorama. It provides the most realistic spatial audio you'll experience on open-back headphones.
The headphone has a 300 ohm impedance, so a good headphone amplifier will be needed to operate it at the right levels without distortion. A balanced connection is recommended since this can double the power output and increase the overall sound quality.
These headphones are made for professional use. They have a metal frame and a mixture of leather and plastic padding. The design is minimalistic and they don't look fancy, but the quality of the headphones best and their construction are superb. They come with a carrying pouch and an additional audio cable and an 1/4" to 1/8" adapter.
With a neutral sound profile the HD 800 S reproduces natural vocals and instruments, although they are light in bass. The open-back design creates a spacious, out-of-head soundstage. The treble is excellent with minor peaks and drops. The treble region also has a linear quality, so you will not be able to deal 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. They'll still be a great choice for those who enjoy listening to rock music with powerful basslines, but they may not sound as fun as some of the competing models on this list such as the HiFiMan Arya.
In the mids in the mids, these Sennheiser headphones are difficult to beat. They are linear with an incline on the upper mids, which shouldn't be noticed by most listeners. They also reproduce precise time gradations in vocals which is a huge plus.
The HD 800 S are a pair exceptional headphones, perfect for audiophiles and professionals. They are a top choice because of their outstanding sound quality and a comfortable fit. They're costly however you're buying a pair of headphones iphone that will last for many years to be able to perform to their best in any environment.
Anker Soundcore Life q20
The Anker Soundcore Life Q20 are a good pair of headphones that will be a great choice for anyone who needs to pass the time or simply needs a cheap pair of noise-cancelling headphones. The headphones come with a simple bag that will protect them when you throw them in a bag. Their battery can last multiple long-haul flights. The ANC can effectively block out loud passengers and engine rumbles, however their audio profile is a little warm and bass-heavy.
The Life Q20's controls are easy to use and are well-marked. On the left earcup you'll find buttons for powering up and pairing the headphones gym (market.yuntue.com), as well as to turn off or on active noise cancellation. On the right earcup, you'll see media playback controls. This includes a multi-function control that activates your phone's voice assistance and also turns on Anker BassUp (more about this later). The built-in mic can be used to make hands-free phone calls.
Anker's Soundcore Life Q20 headphones offer an immersive and rich listening experience due to the custom 40mm dynamic drivers that are certified Hi-Res Audio. With a treble that stretches up to 40 kHz the headphones are able to provide exceptional clarity and detail, as their active noise cancelling technology is designed to filter out an extended range of low and mid-frequency sounds.
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 won't be able to take advantage of the superior codec's lower latency while playing on your computer.
In terms of comfort, the Life Q20's memory-foam ear cups and headbands are comfortable enough to wear for extended periods of time without causing any discomfort. The ear cups also rotate to adapt to your individual head shape. You can also listen to your music via a 3.5mm cable and a microUSB connector is provided for charging the battery.
Over-ear headphones cover your ears and plunge you in music. They are typically made for audiophiles and have features like active noise cancelling and control apps.
The Focal Bathys are a wireless device that comes with ANC and a mobile app for tweaking the EQ and presets. They also support high-res audio via USB-C for wired listening.
Sony WH-1000XM5
The WH-1000XM5 headphones bose from Sony are the latest addition to their top-of-the-line noise cancellation line-up. The headphones have a new design and enhanced ANC. They also come with many of the same features, but with higher-end sound quality and superior materials.
They're lightweight for over-ear ANC headphones at 250 grams. They're extremely comfortable to wear, even when you're reading or listening the audiobook. The headband features a friction rod design, similar to the Grado Labs SR60x, which keeps your ears from getting too cold.
With a sound quality that can satisfy casual music listeners and Headphones Gym serious audiophiles, the WH-1000XM5's sonic signature is tuned to have a slight focus on bass but is not overpowering or harsh. The earphones have a large and wide soundstage, as well as good separation of instruments. This allows you to be able to hear the finer details of your music. The earcups also feature touch controls, which are easy to use. You can swipe forward to access the next track, then back to hear the previous track, and up and down to regulate the volume. The headphones are capable of connecting to two devices simultaneously and thanks to a built-in sensor, they automatically stop the playback when removed from your head. You can also turn on the ambient mode by placing your palm on the right earcup, which allows you to be aware of what's happening around you without taking off the headphones.
Other useful features include the possibility of pairing them with your voice assistant, Bluetooth low-energy, and support for high-resolution audio (via LDAC). The headphones come with a carry case made of high-end fabric and the USB-C charging cable. 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 life is superb. In our battery test we had 31 hours and 53 minute with the ANC on, which was better than Sony's advertised 30 hour battery life.
The WH-1000XM5's microphone performance on voice calls is excellent and there's no distorted or static-y sounding background. The noise cancellation is top-notch 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, delivering top-quality performance and features. It includes wireless streaming at 24 bits, optimized active noise cancellation, and crystal clear voice quality on any compatible mobile phone or tablet. The 40mm drivers, which are designed specifically and angled to fit in each earcup, offer more deep and focused listening experience. Six strategically placed microphones provide excellent call clarity, even in noisy environments. And an inline remote and microphone let you control your calls and music using any compatible device.
These headphones bluetooth have a similar elegant and refined design as the original PX7. They feature accent rings around the earcups, as well as a silver sheen on the headband. The memory foam earcups fit well, but not too tightly on the cranium. The redesigned shape and form required a lot of time to perfect, delivering an easy clamping force that isn't too hard even on my own rotund cranium.
At 10.8 grams (or 307g), they're 2 ounces lighter that the Sony WH-1000XM5, as well as a touch smaller. They're light enough to fit in your backpack or bag without much discomfort, and will remain comfortably in place 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 an enclosed case.
They're powered by Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX Adaptive support which is great for high-resolution audio and fast video sync. You can play them wirelessly too, using the included 3.5mm cable that connects to a USB-C port on the right earcup. The status indicator on the headphone is a nice feature. It flashes green to show rapid charging and solid blue to indicate Bluetooth pairing.
The B&W App provides the same controls that the hardware onboard buttons offer - bass and treble adjustments, action button assignments wear detection, the ability to cycle through ANC modes and more. The app also displays an album cover and track title when you play music on your iPhone. Some popular features like music presets, soundscapes and music mode aren't available, however.Sennheiser HD 800 S
The HD 800 S is a successor to the legendary Sennheiser headphones and is made to meet the highest expectations. Its construction technology is optimized to give an impressive detail resolution that encompasses all frequencies as well as dynamic range and stereo panorama. It provides the most realistic spatial audio you'll experience on open-back headphones.
The headphone has a 300 ohm impedance, so a good headphone amplifier will be needed to operate it at the right levels without distortion. A balanced connection is recommended since this can double the power output and increase the overall sound quality.
These headphones are made for professional use. They have a metal frame and a mixture of leather and plastic padding. The design is minimalistic and they don't look fancy, but the quality of the headphones best and their construction are superb. They come with a carrying pouch and an additional audio cable and an 1/4" to 1/8" adapter.
With a neutral sound profile the HD 800 S reproduces natural vocals and instruments, although they are light in bass. The open-back design creates a spacious, out-of-head soundstage. The treble is excellent with minor peaks and drops. The treble region also has a linear quality, so you will not be able to deal 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. They'll still be a great choice for those who enjoy listening to rock music with powerful basslines, but they may not sound as fun as some of the competing models on this list such as the HiFiMan Arya.
In the mids in the mids, these Sennheiser headphones are difficult to beat. They are linear with an incline on the upper mids, which shouldn't be noticed by most listeners. They also reproduce precise time gradations in vocals which is a huge plus.
The HD 800 S are a pair exceptional headphones, perfect for audiophiles and professionals. They are a top choice because of their outstanding sound quality and a comfortable fit. They're costly however you're buying a pair of headphones iphone that will last for many years to be able to perform to their best in any environment.
Anker Soundcore Life q20The Anker Soundcore Life Q20 are a good pair of headphones that will be a great choice for anyone who needs to pass the time or simply needs a cheap pair of noise-cancelling headphones. The headphones come with a simple bag that will protect them when you throw them in a bag. Their battery can last multiple long-haul flights. The ANC can effectively block out loud passengers and engine rumbles, however their audio profile is a little warm and bass-heavy.
The Life Q20's controls are easy to use and are well-marked. On the left earcup you'll find buttons for powering up and pairing the headphones gym (market.yuntue.com), as well as to turn off or on active noise cancellation. On the right earcup, you'll see media playback controls. This includes a multi-function control that activates your phone's voice assistance and also turns on Anker BassUp (more about this later). The built-in mic can be used to make hands-free phone calls.
Anker's Soundcore Life Q20 headphones offer an immersive and rich listening experience due to the custom 40mm dynamic drivers that are certified Hi-Res Audio. With a treble that stretches up to 40 kHz the headphones are able to provide exceptional clarity and detail, as their active noise cancelling technology is designed to filter out an extended range of low and mid-frequency sounds.
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 won't be able to take advantage of the superior codec's lower latency while playing on your computer.
In terms of comfort, the Life Q20's memory-foam ear cups and headbands are comfortable enough to wear for extended periods of time without causing any discomfort. The ear cups also rotate to adapt to your individual head shape. You can also listen to your music via a 3.5mm cable and a microUSB connector is provided for charging the battery.