Best Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones totally encase your ears and allow you to fully immerse in the sound. They are usually made for audiophiles, and include features such as active noise cancellation and control applications.
The Focal Bathys is a wireless speaker that comes with ANC, a mobile app to tweak the EQ, and presets. They also support high-res audio for wired listening via USB-C.
Sony WH-1000XM5
The WH1000XM5 headphones from Sony are the latest upgrade in their noise cancellation lineup. They sport a new design, upgraded ANC and a host of the same features that their predecessors had but with better materials and slightly higher-quality sound.
At only 250g, they are lightweight for over-ear ANC headsets. This makes them very comfortable to wear for long periods of time, whether you're listening to a podcast or book. The headband is soft and has an ear-friction rod design similar to the Grado Labs SR60x that prevents your ears from getting too cold.
The WH-1000XM5 has a sound signature created to please casual music lovers as also serious audiophiles. It is tuned with a slight increase in bass, but it is not harsh or imposing. They have a wide and open soundstage with good instrument separation, which lets you hear subtleties in your music. The earcups also have touch controls, which are easy to use. Swipe forward to go to the next track, reverse to hear the previous one and then up and down to control the volume. 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 the ambient mode by placing your palm on the right ear cup. at headphones allows you to listen to the sounds around you without having to remove the headphones.
They can also be paired 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 high-end fabric as well as a USB-C cable to charge. The headphones are compatible with most Android and iOS smartphones, as well as with computers running Windows and macOS. The WH-1000XM5's life expectancy is exceptional. In our test we were able get 31 hours and 53 minutes when the ANC switched on 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 not any muffled or static-y sound in the background. The noise cancellation is top-quality and they're a great choice for public transport or 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 and Wilkins PX7 S2 offers premium performance and features like 24-bit wireless streaming with active noise cancellation that is optimized and clear voice calls on any compatible mobile or tablet. The 40mm drivers, which are designed specifically and angled to fit in each earcup, give you a more immersive and focused listening experience. Six strategically placed microphones provide exceptional call clarity even in noisy environments. An inline remote and microphone lets you manage your calls and music on any device compatible with it.
Like the original PX7 These headphones have elegant and refined with accent rings on each earcup as well as a silver sheen on the headband. The earcups are cushioned using memory foam and sit comfortably on the cranium, yet don't feel tight. The new form and shape was developed over the course of several months and provides a comfortable clamping pressure that doesn't press into my skull.
At 10.8 pounds (or 307g), they're 2 ounces lighter than Sony WH-1000XM5, as well as just a little thinner. They're light enough to fit in your bag or backpack without much discomfort, and they'll stay comfortably in place during long listens. The headband can be folded using a sturdy hinge at the back.
The headphones are powered by Bluetooth 5.2, with aptX Adaptive. This is great for high-resolution audio aswell for a tight video sync. You can also play the headphones wired, too, with the included 3.5mm cable that connects to a USB-C port on the right earcup. The headphone's status indicator is a helpful gesture with a green flash to indicate a rapid charge, and solid blue when Bluetooth pairing is active.
The B&W App has the same control options that the buttons on the hardware provide including bass and treble adjustment actions button assignments wear detection, a cycle of ANC modes, etc. When you listen to music on your iPhone, the app displays album cover and track titles. Popular extras such as music presets, soundscapes and music mode are not 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 technical construction has been optimized to provide the highest resolution in detail that covers all of the frequency spectrum dynamic range, as well as stereo panorama. It also offers the most realistic sound you'll hear in a pair of open-back headphones.
The headphone has an impedance of 300 ohms so it requires a high-quality headphone amplifier that can drive it at the right levels, without distortion. A balanced connection is recommended, as this will double the power output and enhance the overall sound quality.
The headphones are designed to be used by professionals and feature a sturdy metal frame that is adorned with plastics and leather padding. The design is minimalist and doesn't appear like the most expensive pair of headphones, but they feel luxurious in the hand and are well-built. They come with a carrying pouch as well as an additional audio cable and an 1/4" to 1/8" adapter.
The HD 800 S has a neutral sound that reproduces instruments and vocals with naturality, although they are a bit lighter on bass. This is due to the open-back design creates a large and out-of-head soundstage. The treble performance is outstanding with only minor peaks and dips. The Treble region also has a linear quality and 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 in the event of need, despite the absence of a powerful low-end. They'll still be enjoyable for those who like listening to rock music that has punchy basslines, but they may not sound as fun as some of the models on this list, such as the HiFiMan Arya.
These Sennheiser headphones have a fantastic midrange. They are a linear pair with a slight scoop on the upper mids, which won't be noticed by the majority of listeners. They also can reproduce fine time gradations which is an added bonus.
The HD 800 S is a pair of premium headphones that are perfect for professionals and audiophiles. Their exceptional sound quality and comfortable fit make them an excellent choice. The headphones are expensive but they'll last for a long time and will perform in any environment.
Anker Soundcore Life q20
The Anker Soundcore Life Q20 are a great pair of headphones that can be a great choice for anyone who needs to kill some time or simply wants a low-cost pair of noise-cancelling headphones. The headphones come with a simple bag that protects them when you throw them into a bag. Their battery can last for several long-haul flights. The ANC is a great way to 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 ear cup you'll find buttons to power up and pair the headphones and for turning on or off active noise cancellation. On the right earcup, there are media playback controls. This includes a multi-function key that activates your phone's voice assistant and also turns on Anker BassUp (more about it later). The built-in microphone can be used to make phone calls hands-free.
Anker's Soundcore Q20 headphone offers a deep, immersive listening experience thanks to its custom 40 mm dynamic driver that offers certified Hi-Res audio. With a treble range that extends up to 40 kHz they offer exceptional clarity and detail, while their active noise cancellation technology is designed to filter out a wider range of mid- and low-frequency sounds.
One important thing to be aware of about the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 is that it doesn't support the aptX codec, which is disappointing. This means that you won't not be able to benefit of the higher codes' lower latency while playing games on your computer.
The Life Q20's headband and memory foam ear cups are soft enough to be worn for long periods of time without discomfort. The earcups can rotate to adapt to your individual head shape. You can also listen to music via a 3.5mm cable and a microUSB connector is provided for charging the battery.