Products Reviewed:
Best Overall: PHILIPS SHP9500 Precision Stereo
Best Splurge: Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700
Best Budget: Soundcore Anker Life Q20
Best for Gym: Beats Studio3
Best for Music: Skullcandy Crusher Evo
Are you tired of settling for mediocre sound from your headphones? Ready to spend on a rich, high-definition audio experience you’ve been craving? Let’s face it: nowadays, sound plays a crucial role in our everyday lives. Whether we’re jamming out to our favorite tunes, getting lost in a thrilling movie night, or engaging in adrenaline-fueled gaming sessions – you need the best over ear headphones to the best audio experience.
Do you know that the origins of headphones date back to the 19th century, when telephone operators used a rudimentary version known as “ear receivers”? Thankfully, we’ve come a long way since those early days, and now we have a plethora of advanced headphones to choose from, boasting cutting-edge noise cancellation, audiophile-grade sound quality, and sleek design aesthetics.
With all these developments, we understand that finding the perfect pair of over-ear headphones can be a daunting task. To help you make an informed choice, we’ve meticulously curated this list of the top 5 over-ear headphones through extensive research of countless customer reviews. We analyzed features that matter most to music, movie, and game lovers alike.
These headphones will exceed your expectations and deliver impressive sound quality. Intrigued to know which headphones made it to the top 5 list? Let’s dive in and transform the way you consume your media!
How do we choose the best over-ear headphones?
Before unveiling the top 5 picks, it is important to discuss the essential factors that you should keep in mind while selecting the best over-ear headphones:
- Sound Quality: Unsurprisingly, sound quality should be at the top of your list when searching for the perfect headphones. It would be best to look for headphones with a wide frequency range, accurate sound reproduction, and minimal distortion.
- Comfort: You’ll likely be wearing your headphones for extended periods, so comfort is crucial. Look for models with adjustable headbands, cushioned ear cups, and lightweight designs.
- Noise Cancelling: Are you planning to use your headphones in noisy environments? If so, consider models with active noise-canceling technology, which can significantly reduce background noise.
- Durability: High-quality materials such as metal and premium plastics ensure that your headphones will withstand daily wear and tear. Opt for designs that offer flexibility and a sturdy build to ensure lasting performance.
- Connectivity: Consider whether you’d prefer wired or wireless headphones. Wireless options connect via Bluetooth, offering convenience and freedom from cords. However, wired models often have minimal sound latency and don’t require battery charging.
- Battery Life: If you’re opting for wireless models, check the battery life to ensure it meets your expectations. Look for headphones with at least 15 hours of playback time to avoid frequent charging.
- Brand Reputation: While lesser-known brands might offer attractive prices, sticking to reputable companies often ensures better customer support and a more reliable product.
- Price: Set a budget and look for headphones that give you the best value without compromising on essential features. And, if you want to splurge, we have a pick for you too.
- Style and Design: Lastly, consider aesthetics; after all, you may wear your headphones for hours every day. Choose a design that reflects your personal style and preferences.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can confidently select the best over-ear headphones for your listening needs. Now that you know how over-ear headphones work and how you should select one let’s finally get to our top 5 picks from the market in 2023!
Best for Music
Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless Over-Ear Bluetooth Headphones for iPhone and Android with Mic
Why we love it
Introducing the Skullcandy Crusher Evo headphones, the ultimate companion for bass enthusiasts who yearn for an immersive, bone-shaking audio experience. Delicately crafted with ground-breaking Audiodo customization technology, these headphones adapt to your unique hearing profile, delivering a balanced sound that is exclusively tailored to your ears.
With the innovative bass slider, you have complete control over the intensity of your sonic experience. Whether you prefer a relaxing mood or wish to indulge in a head-pounding auditory adventure, the Crusher Evo is designed to cater to your individual preferences.
Furthermore, its unparalleled battery life provides an astounding 40 hours of uninterrupted listening time on a single charge, ensuring that you can enjoy your favorite tunes without compromise.
But that’s not all; these wireless over-ear headphones are also equipped with state-of-the-art Tile Tech, making misplaced headphones a problem of the past. The embedded tracking technology allows you to locate your headphones with ease, giving you added peace of mind.
To top it all off, Skullcandy offers a 1-year warranty, safeguarding your investment and guaranteeing your satisfaction.
What you should know
Designed with user comfort in mind, the Crusher Evo headphones feature a thick padded headband and plush foam cushioned ear pads. This thoughtful design allows users to enjoy their music for extended periods without any discomfort.
These Bluetooth headphones are also the ideal travel companion, thanks to their foldable design and the inclusion of a durable travel bag. Experience music on the move, with the convenience of saving space in your luggage or backpack.
Moreover, the Crusher Evo headphones come with an integrated hidden microphone, making them suitable for managing calls without compromising on style. The patented Crusher Tech further amplifies the listening experience, ensuring compatibility with any device.
In conclusion, the Skullcandy Crusher Evo headphones offer a remarkable blend of personalized sound, exceptional bass, and prolonged battery life. Their comfortable and visually appealing design caters to a wide audience, making them the best-sounding wireless headphones for those who prioritize quality and style in their audio experience.
Best for Gym
Beats Studio3 Wireless Noise Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones
Why we love it
Beats Studio3 headphones are the ultimate audio companion for fitness aficionados. Tailor-made for a comfortable wearing experience during vigorous workouts, these exceptional headphones offer amazing sound quality to help you stay focused.
As you immerse yourself in your workouts, the cutting-edge Pure Adaptive Noise Canceling (Pure ANC) technology in Beats Studio3 actively eliminates external noise, delivering a truly premium listening experience. Indulge yourself in high-quality, crystal-clear sound that elevates your daily workouts to new heights.
Plus, battery life is no longer a concern, as the Beats Studio3 headphones offer an impressive playback of 22 hours. And, when you’re pressed for time, the Fast Fuel feature ensures you can quickly charge your headphones. A mere 10-minute charge supplies an astounding 3 hours of playtime, keeping you energized during those demanding gym sessions.
Among the many conveniences of the Beats Studio3 is the intuitive, multifunction on-ear controls. Effortlessly take calls, manage your preferred playlist, and initiate Siri without skipping a beat during your training. The built-in microphone ensures seamless communication, making these headphones the complete package for fitness enthusiasts.
What you should know
The revolutionary Beats Studio3 headphones are the ultimate blend of high-performance and unparalleled noise-canceling technology, guaranteed to uplift your listening experience. Designed to flawlessly sync with both iOS and Android devices, gripping versatility is undeniably within reach.
Flourishing with real-time audio calibration, these headphones possess the unique ability to mold sound based on the shape of your ears. This tailored approach ensures that each listener is exposed to nothing short of perfection, catering to personal nuances in ways that defy convention.
Featuring Apple’s esteemed W1 chip, coupled with trailblazing Bluetooth technology, the Beats Studio3 maintains unrivaled connectivity, banishing the frustrations of incessant dropouts. Moreover, their rechargeable lithium-ion battery guarantees uninterrupted listening.
The convenience doesn’t end there; the Beats Studio3 headphones are accompanied by a sturdy carrying case, ingeniously engineered to safeguard your investment during travel.
To put it simply, the Beats Studio3 headphones are the perfect choice for gym enthusiasts who demand unwavering focus and motivation during workouts. With their great sound quality and advanced technology, these headphones will undoubtedly leave you captivated, fulfilling every promise of an exhilarating listening experience.
Best Budget
Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
Why we love it
Discover unparalleled auditory bliss with the Soundcore Anker Life Q20, the ultimate budget-friendly solution for those seeking exceptional quality headphones. With its dynamic capabilities and remarkable features, these headphones have redefined an immersive music experience that will leave you in awe.
Indulge in crystal-clear sound thanks to the Life Q20’s unique and custom-engineered oversized 40 mm dynamic drivers, designed to produce Hi-Res audio that delivers stunning clarity and exquisite detail, reaching up to 40 kHz. Lose yourself in exceptionally well-defined tones and truly appreciate the subtle nuances your favorite tracks have been hiding all along.
Furthermore, minimize environmental distractions and find solace in serenity with the headphones’ state-of-the-art noise-cancellation system. Featuring 4 built-in ANC microphones and an innovative digital active noise-cancellation algorithm, the Life Q20 effectively reduces ambient noise by up to 90%, efficiently blocking out low and mid-frequency sounds such as vehicle engines and urban traffic. Dive into a world of unrivaled focus and pure auditory indulgence, free from unwelcome background clamor.
On top of that, enhance your listening experience even further with the Life Q20’s exclusive BassUp technology. By conducting real-time analysis of low frequencies, this advanced feature boosts bass output, resulting in a robust and powerful sound that is 100% stronger than before.
Designed with longevity in mind, these headphones offer an impressive playtime of up to 40 hours, making them the ideal choice for long-haul flights, extensive train journeys, or everyday commutes.
What you should know
The Soundcore Anker Life Q20 is a pinnacle of wireless audio technology designed to enrich your listening experience without compromising on comfort or breaking the bank. Developed while keeping an eye toward the future, this budget option is a powerful contender for the best wireless headphones in 2023.
Complementing the captivating audio quality are the luxurious memory foam ear cups. Not only do they enhance your auditory escapades, but they promise superior comfort during long listening sessions. Moreover, the thoughtful foldable design ensures your headphones won’t consume unnecessary storage space and remain a hassle-free travel companion.
The Soundcore Anker Life Q20 also excels in the realm of compatibility. These versatile headphones seamlessly pair with both iOS and Android devices, granting an unparalleled listening experience regardless of your preference in gadgets.
User-friendly built-in buttons and microphones make controlling your music and phone calls a breeze. And with an incredible fast-charging feature, just a mere 5 minutes of charging for an impressive 4 hours of playback, this revolutionary headphone set keeps you connected and entertained at all times.
Over 20 million people have experienced the exceptional, very neutral sound profile offered by the Soundcore Anker Life Q20, a testament to their unmatched audio performance and quality.
Unleash the potential of your playlist and transform mundane trips into personal concerts with the Soundcore Anker Life Q20, your ticket to an unbeatable music experience, that too on a budget!
Best Splurge
Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700
Why we love it
Presenting the ultimate indulgence in personal audio: Bose Noise-Cancelling Headphones. This premium device epitomizes unrivaled sound performance, making it the ultimate splurge for the discerning listener who desires a top-of-the-line auditory experience. It’s time to treat your ears to the best of the best.
Boasting an unparalleled 11 levels of excellent noise cancellation, these headphones enable users to fully immerse themselves in their favorite tunes, podcasts, or phone calls, free from any external disturbances. Step into a world of pure sound and be captivated by the captivating audio experience, devoid of any distractions.
The exceptional sound quality these headphones deliver is nothing short of astonishing. Prepare to be mesmerized by the crisp, clear details and resonant, full-bodied bass. Those who demand the finest will not be disappointed.
In addition, these ground-breaking headphones feature a state-of-the-art microphone system that deftly adapts to even the most challenging of environments, from noisy city streets to blustery wind tunnels. With such technological prowess, you can rely on crystal clear voice pick-up in any situation.
Enhance your connectivity with voice assistants such as Alexa and Google Assistant, all easily accessible through intuitive touch control on the earcups. Simply tap or swipe to stay connected without the need to reach for your phone.
Additionally, the sophisticated design utilizing lightweight stainless steel for the headband and tilted earcups ensures these headphones deliver unparalleled comfort for prolonged wear. Immerse yourself in an auditory oasis for hours on end while enjoying supreme comfort.
What you should know
These Bluetooth headphones offer up to 20 hours of wireless battery life on a single charge. They are designed to cater to the needs of long commutes and travel enthusiasts, effortlessly enhancing every journey.
Enlighten your ears with the power of innovation at your fingertips. With just a tap and hold on the right earcup, users can instantly relive their last Spotify session or delve into new music landscapes, opening up an audio treasure trove.
Elevate personal listening experiences by pairing these premium headphones with Bose smart soundbars to fully immerse in a world of crystal-clear audio. But that’s not all; unlocking further connectivity, it now features Alexa to Alexa calling capability. Place a call to any Bose smart device or Amazon Echo connected to the Alexa mobile app with ease and convenience.
While these wireless noise-cancelling headphones may be considered an investment, their unparalleled features prove them well worth the price. Experience the best splurge in audio technology and redefine your listening journey with these extraordinary Bluetooth headphones.
Best Overall
PHILIPS SHP9500 HiFi Precision Stereo Over-Ear Headphones
Why we love it
The PHILIPS Precision Stereo headphones are our top pick for an unparalleled audio experience and ultimate comfort. As the best overall choice, these headphones effortlessly blend top-notch sound quality with an ergonomic design to ensure satisfaction for every listener.
Bask in the pristine audio brought to life by 50mm high-power neodymium drivers. This advanced technology allows you to delve into the sublime details of every melody, delivering crisp bass and crystal-clear highs.
Find lasting comfort with the thoughtfully angled ear shells, carefully crafted to align with the ear’s natural geometry. This ensures an accurate and consistent sound delivery, bringing the soundtrack of your life to its highest potential.
Made from high-quality materials, the soft cushioning is designed to keep you cozy for hours on end. Reinforced with a durable steel headband, both strength, and longevity are guaranteed with the PHILIPS Precision Stereo headphones.
What you should know
The PHILIPS Precision Stereo headphones are designed with meticulous attention to detail, providing a dynamic and authentic listening experience that is simply unmatched.
One of the key features of these headphones is their open-back architecture. This innovative design eliminates air pressure build-up behind the drivers, resulting in unparalleled sound transparency and the smoothest of extended high frequencies. With such impeccable audio quality, you are sure to be immersed in a sonic landscape that feels truly alive.
Equipped with a removable 1.5m cable and a 3.5mm jack, the PHILIPS Precision Stereo headphones provide optimum flexibility in switching between sources or connecting a microphone. This ensures you can enjoy your favorite tunes or podcasts seamlessly without any limitations.
In terms of comfort, these wired headphones boast an adjustable headband with markings for the perfect fit. The deluxe breathable ear-pads take it a step further by dissipating pressure and heat, allowing for longer wearing comfort. No longer will you have to worry about the listening experience being marred by discomfort or overheating.
In conclusion, the PHILIPS Precision Stereo headphones stand out as the best overall choice for those seeking an unmatched audio experience. With their impeccable sound quality, user-friendly design, and utmost comfort, these wired over-ear headphones are sure to delight and satisfy even the most discerning music lovers.
Best Ove Ear Headphones: Frequently Asked Questions
Seeking exceptional over-ear headphones yet need clarity? Explore our comprehensive FAQ section below, addressing all your inquiries with expertise and precision.
How do I check the sound quality of my wireless headphones?
To check the sound quality of your wireless over-ear headphones, you can try listening to different music genres, including those with intricate instrumentation and diverse vocal ranges. An ambient sound can also help you assess their noise-cancellation capabilities. Additionally, consider buying over-ear headphones with detailed sound features and ample frequency range to experience the nuances in your music.
How does the active noise cancellation work?
Active noise cancellation uses microphones to detect external sounds and generate inverse waves to cancel them out, resulting in superior noise cancellation. Noise-canceling headphones have built-in microphones that capture ambient sound and generate an opposite signal to create a crisp sound with reduced background noise. The noise cancelling features can be adjusted to suit different environments, making them ideal for buying over-ear headphones for travel, work, or study.
Can over-ear headphones be used for working out?
Yes, some over-ear headphones are designed specifically for working out with features like sweat and water resistance, secure fit, and durability. Look for headphones that are labeled as sports or workout headphones for optimal performance.
What is the difference between open-back and closed-back headphones?
Closed-back headphones provide sound isolation and a more focused sound, while open-back headphones allow more ambient noise to enter and provide a wider soundstage. The choice between the two depends on personal preference and usage.
Can I use noise-canceling headphones without music?
Yes, noise-canceling headphones can be used without music to block out external noise and create a more peaceful environment. This feature is especially useful for people who work in noisy environments or when traveling.
Are over-ear headphones better quality?
Over-ear headphones typically provide better sound quality compared to other types of headphones due to their larger drivers and closed-back design. Moreover, they often come with longer battery life and wireless features, which make them a popular choice for music lovers on the go. However, it’s important to note that sound quality can vary widely among different brands and models, so it’s always a good idea to do your research before buying a pair of over-ear wireless headphones.
Are Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones better than Bose Quietcomfort?
Yes, the Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones are the latest model and offer several improvements over the older QuietComfort model, such as better noise cancellation, improved sound quality, and longer battery life.
What is passive noise cancellation?
Passive noise cancellation refers to the physical design of headphones that block out external noise by creating a seal around your ears. This can be achieved through the use of thick padding and an over-ear design, effectively reducing the amount of ambient sound that reaches your ears. Unlike active noise cancellation, passive noise cancellation doesn’t rely on any technology and is solely dependent on the headphone’s physical design.
How can I ensure that my over-ear headphones fit comfortably?
To ensure maximum comfort while wearing over-ear headphones, it’s important to choose a pair with an adjustable headband and ear cups that fit snugly around your ears. Additionally, look for headphones with breathable ear pads made from materials like memory foam or leatherette. Taking breaks during extended listening sessions and adjusting the headphones periodically can also help prevent discomfort or pain.