Best Over Ear Headphones In 2024
The Best Over-Ear Headphones of 2024: Top Picks for Every Audio Need
Over-ear headphones remain a top choice for audiophiles, gamers, and professionals, offering unmatched sound quality, comfort, and noise isolation. In 2024, manufacturers have taken over-ear headphones to the next level with advancements in active noise cancellation, immersive sound quality, and even smart features that enhance the listening experience. From noise-canceling champs to audiophile classics, we’ve rounded up the best over-ear headphones of 2024 to help you find the perfect match for your audio needs.
Sony WH-1000XM5
4.4/5
Best Noise-Canceling Over-Ear Headphones
Quick Specs
- Noise Cancellation: Industry-leading ANC
- Battery Life: Up to 30 hours
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3
- Price: Around $400
- Weight: 250g
Sony’s WH-1000XM5 leads the pack as the premier noise-canceling headphones of 2024. These headphones combine Sony’s renowned Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) with stunning audio quality, offering an impressive battery life of up to 30 hours. The WH-1000XM5’s adaptive sound control feature adjusts the noise cancellation based on your surroundings, making them perfect for everything from commuting to working in busy environments.
Performance
The WH-1000XM5’s sound quality is rich and detailed, with powerful bass, clear mids, and crisp highs, suitable for all music genres. Sony has refined the comfort and design, making these headphones lightweight with plush ear cushions that are ideal for all-day wear.
Perfect for: Travelers and commuters looking for top-notch noise cancellation and long battery life.
Pros:
- Outstanding noise cancellation
- Balanced sound profile
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Bluetooth 5.2 with SBC, AAC, LDAC, and wired connectivity options
- ANC Performance
Cons:
- Expensive
- Limited high-resolution codec support on some devices
Official Sony WH-1000XM5 Video
Sennheiser HD 800 S
4.4/5
Best for Audiophiles
Quick Specs
- Frequency Response: 4Hz – 51kHz
- Impedance: 300 Ohms
- Connectivity: Wired
- Price: Around $1699.95 USD
- Weight: 330g
For those who demand nothing but the best in audio fidelity, the Sennheiser HD 800S is a legendary pair of over-ear headphones designed with audiophiles in mind. Its wide frequency response and open-back design provide an immersive and expansive soundstage that captures every detail in your music. While they’re wired and need an amplifier to shine, the HD 800S delivers an audio experience that is unmatched.
Performance
The HD 800S produces incredibly accurate audio, making it perfect for critical listening. The open-back design allows for natural, spacious sound, giving you a “live” feel for studio recordings and symphonies. While not intended for casual use or commuting, these headphones are a top pick for true audiophiles.
Perfect for: Audiophiles who want high-fidelity sound and an expansive soundstage.
Pros:
- Incredibly detailed and precise sound
- Exceptional build quality
- Comfortable for extended listening sessions
- Removable Cable
- Perception of space
Cons:
- Expensive and requires an amplifier
- Open-back design leaks sound
Official Sennheiser HD 800 S Video
(Only 2 left in stock)
Anker Soundcore Space Q45
4.4/5
Best for Budget Noise Cancellation
Quick Specs
- Noise Cancellation: Hybrid ANC
- Battery Life: Up to 50 hours
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3
- Price: Around $150
- Weight: 281g
Anker’s Soundcore Space Q45 is a fantastic option for those looking for effective noise cancellation without the high price tag. The Q45 features Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation that can handle noisy environments, whether you’re commuting or working from a bustling café. Anker has also managed to offer an impressive battery life, up to 50 hours on a single charge, making these headphones highly suitable for long journeys and frequent travelers.
Performance
The Soundcore Space Q45 provides a well-balanced sound profile, with deep bass, clear mids, and slightly recessed highs. The noise cancellation is effective, although not as refined as in higher-end models like the WH-1000XM5. Comfort-wise, the Q45 features memory foam ear cushions that are comfortable for long wear, with a flexible design that’s easy to pack and carry.
Perfect for: Budget-conscious users who want solid noise cancellation and excellent battery life.
Pros:
- Effective noise cancellation for the price
- Long battery life (up to 50 hours)
- Comfortable and portable design
- Amazing ANC in this price
- Fast Charging
Cons:
- ANC not as strong as premium models
- Sound profile may lack detail for audiophiles
Official Anker Soundcore Space Q45 Video
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro
4.6/5
Best Budget Audiophile Headphones
Quick Specs
- Frequency Response: 5Hz – 35kHz
- Impedance: 250 Ohms
- Connectivity: Wired
- Price: Around $179 USD
- Weight: 381g
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro offers audiophile-quality sound on a budget. Known for their powerful, open soundstage, these open-back headphones are a favorite among studio professionals and budget-conscious audiophiles. Although they require a headphone amplifier for optimal performance, their dynamic sound profile makes them an excellent choice for high-resolution audio playback. Furthermore, this feature enhances the overall listening experience, ensuring rich and detailed sound. Therefore, for those seeking top-tier audio quality, they are a standout option.
Performance
The DT 990 Pro has a slightly V-shaped sound profile, with punchy bass and sparkly highs that bring out details in your music. It’s perfect for studio mixing, gaming, or simply enjoying a broad soundstage that open-back headphones provide. These headphones are durable and built for extended use, although they are best suited for quiet environments due to sound leakage.
Perfect for: Budget-conscious audiophiles and studio users who want an open soundstage.
Pros:
- Excellent soundstage and clarity
- Comfortable, even for long sessions
- Durable build quality
- Affordable Price
Cons:
- Requires an amplifier
- Can’t replace the Cable
Official Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro Short Video
Apple AirPods Max
4.6/5
The Top Choice of Over-Ear Headphones for Apple Fans
Quick Specs
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Battery Life: Up to 20 hours
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0 with H1 chip
- Price: Original-$549 USD, Sep. 2024-$459 USD
- Weight: 385g
The Apple AirPods Max are designed specifically for Apple users, delivering seamless integration across the Apple ecosystem. Featuring premium noise cancellation, spatial audio, and custom drivers, these headphones provide an immersive listening experience with all of Apple’s signature convenience. While they’re on the pricier side, their design and quality make them a worthy choice for Apple enthusiasts.
Performance
AirPods Max delivers balanced sound with punchy bass and a detailed midrange, making them versatile for different types of media. The spatial audio feature creates an immersive experience for movies and games, while the noise cancellation is powerful enough for busy commutes and office environments.
Perfect for: Apple users looking for high-quality over-ear headphones with seamless ecosystem integration.
Pros:
- High-quality noise cancellation and spatial audio
- Excellent build quality with a premium feel
- Effortless connectivity with Apple devices
- Fair Battery life
- Great connection strength with Bluetooth 5.0
Cons:
- Expensive
- Limited compatibility and customization for non-Apple devices
Apple AirpPods Max Video
Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless
4.1/5
The Ultimate All-Purpose Over-Ear Headphones
Quick Specs
- Noise Cancellation: Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Battery Life: Up to 60 hours
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2
- Price: Around $350
- Weight: 293g
For those seeking balanced performance in all areas, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless is a top contender. The Momentum 4 offers impressive battery life, powerful ANC, and a dynamic sound profile, making it perfect for both everyday listening and immersive experiences. Additionally, its robust features ensure it excels in various situations. With these qualities, the Momentum 4 stands out as a versatile option for all types of audio needs. These headphones are designed for those who want high performance across music, movies, and calls.
Performance
The Momentum 4 provides clear, balanced sound with a slight emphasis on bass, making it enjoyable for most genres.
The ANC works well, though it’s a bit less intense compared to the WH-1000XM5. What sets the Momentum 4 apart is its incredible battery life—up to 60 hours on a single charge. The touch controls are intuitive, and the ear cups are comfortable for extended use.
Perfect for: Those looking for well-rounded, high-quality headphones with exceptional battery life.
Pros:
- Long battery life (up to 60 hours)
- Excellent sound quality across all genres
- Comfortable and user-friendly design
- Affordable Price
Cons:
- ANC could be stronger
- Bulky for on-the-go use
Official Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Video
Final Verdict: Which Over-Ear Headphones Are Right for You?
Each of these headphones excels in a different area, so here’s a quick summary to help you decide:
- Noise Cancellation: Sony WH-1000XM5 for its industry-leading ANC and comfort.
- Audiophiles: Sennheiser HD 800S if you want the pinnacle of sound quality.
- Budget Noise Cancellation: Anker Soundcore Space Q45 for effective ANC without breaking the bank.
- Budget Audiophile Pick: Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro for high-quality sound on a budget.
- Apple Users: Apple AirPods Max, delivering seamless integration and spatial audio.
- All-Rounder: Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless for balanced performance and battery life.
Whether you’re an audiophile, a gamer, or a professional needing reliable noise cancellation, there’s a pair of over-ear headphones on this list that will meet your needs.
FAQs (frequently asked questions)
1- Which headphones provide the best noise cancellation for travelers?
The Sony WH-1000XM5 delivers exceptional noise cancellation, making it perfect for travel and noisy settings.
2- Are there any good budget options for noise cancellation?
Yes, the Anker Soundcore Space Q45 provides impressive noise cancellation and battery life at a budget-friendly price.
3- Which headphones are best for audiophiles?
The Sennheiser HD 800S is a top choice for audiophiles, offering unmatched sound fidelity with an expansive soundstage.
4- What over-ear headphones have the longest battery life?
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless offers up to 60 hours of battery life, the longest on this list.
5- Are the Apple AirPods Max good for non-Apple users?
While the AirPods Max works with non-Apple devices, they are best suited for Apple users due to seamless integration and exclusive features.
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