Best Over-Ear Headphones

Over-ear headphones completely surround your ears and allow you to fully immerse in the sound. They are usually tuned for audiophiles, and headphones noise Cancelling include features such as active noise cancelling and control apps.

The Focal Bathys are a wireless device that comes with ANC and a mobile app to adjust the EQ and presets. They also support high-res audio for wired listening via USB-C.

Sony WH-1000XM5

The WH1000XM5 earphones from Sony are the latest model in their noise cancellation line-up. They feature a new design, enhanced ANC and a lot of the same features as their predecessors but with higher-end materials and a slightly higher-quality sound.

They're light for over-ear ANC headphones, with 250 grams. This makes them extremely comfortable to wear for long periods of time, even when you're listening to a podcast or a book. The headband is soft, and it features an ear-friction rod design similar to the Grado Labs SR60x that prevents your ears from getting too cold.

With an audio quality that will please people who listen to music for headphones Noise cancelling no reason and serious audiophiles, the WH-1000XM5's sonic signature is tuned to put a little emphasis on bass, but it isn't overpowering or harsh. The earphones boast a huge and open soundstage, with excellent instrument separation. This lets you listen to the subtleties of your music. The earcups come with control buttons that are easy to use and responsive. Swipe up or down to alter the volume. You can also swipe forward to listen to the next song, backwards to hear the prior track. The headphones can connect to two devices simultaneously and will automatically pause playback when you take them off your head, thanks to the built-in sensor. You can activate ambient mode by placing your hand on the right ear cup. This allows you to listen to the sounds around you without having to remove the headphones.

Other features that are useful include the possibility of pairing them with your voice assistant, Bluetooth low-energy, and support for hi-res audio (via LDAC). They come with a sturdy carrying case made from premium fabric and a USB-C cable to charge. The headphones are compatible with Android and iOS smartphones, as well as computers operating Windows or macOS. The WH-1000XM5's battery capacity is awe-inspiring. In our standard test we were able to achieve 31 hours and 53 minutes with ANC switched on which is more than Sony's advertised battery duration of 30 hours.

The WH-1000XM5's mic performance on calls is exceptional and there's no distorted or static-y sounding background. Noise cancellation is also great, and these headphones are perfect for public transportation or the office.

Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2

The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 is a major improvement over its predecessor, offering premium performance and features. The Bowers & Wilkins S2 is a premium model with a variety of features, including 24-bit wireless streaming with active noise cancellation that is optimized, and clear voice calls on any compatible mobile or tablet. Its custom-designed 40mm drivers are precisely positioned inside each earcup to provide a more focused, deep listening experience. Six strategically placed microphones provide exceptional call clarity even in noisy surroundings. A built-in microphone and remote allows you to control calls and music on any compatible device.

The headphones sport a similar elegant and refined design as the original PX7. They feature accent rings that wrap around the earcups as well as a silver sheen on the headband. The earcups are cushioned by memory foam and fit comfortably on the cranium, yet don't feel tight. The new design and shape was perfected over many months, and delivers a soft clamping pressure that doesn't press hard on my own skull, which is a rotund one.

They're 2 ounces lighter (or 307g) and a little thinner than the Sony WH1000XM5. The headphones are lightweight enough to be carried in a backpack or bag and stay in place comfortably throughout long listening sessions. A strong hinge on the back of the headband allows you to fold them to make it easy to transport them in a protective case.

The headphones are powered by Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX Adaptive. This is great for high-resolution audio aswell as tight video sync. The 3.5mm cord connects to the USB-C port on the right earcup. The headphone's status indicator is a helpful touch that flashes green to indicate rapid charging and solid blue when Bluetooth pairing is in use.

The B&W app offers the same features as the hardware onboard buttons - bass and treble adjustment as well as action button assignment wear detection, the ability to cycle through ANC modes and much more. The app also displays an album cover and track title when you play music on your iPhone. However, popular extras like music presets and soundscapes feature are not available.

Sennheiser HD 800 S

The HD 800 S is the successor of the iconic headphones by Sennheiser, and it is designed to meet highest expectations. Its construction technology has been optimized to achieve the highest resolution in detail that covers all frequencies as well as dynamic range and stereo panorama. It also offers the most realistic spatial sound you'll hear in a pair of open-back headphones.

The headphone has 300 ohms of impedance, which means a quality headphone amplifier will be needed to drive it at desired levels without distortion. It is recommended to use a balanced connection, which can double the output and improve the sound quality.

These Headphones noise Cancelling are made for professional use. They feature a metal frame and a mixture of leather and plastic padding. The design is rather minimalist and doesn't look like the most expensive pair of headphones, but they feel luxurious in the hand and are well-built. They come with a carrying case, an extra 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 sound quality is superb with only minor dips and peaks. The treble region also is linear, so you will not be able to deal with piercingsibilants, or the upper bite of a drum snare.

They can still deliver impact and dynamism when needed despite the lack of a powerful low-end. They'll still be enjoyable for those who enjoy listening to rock music that has punchy basslines, but they may not be like some of the other models on this list, such as the HiFiMan Arya.

The Sennheiser headphones over ear have a fantastic mid-range. They are straight and have an incline on the upper mids, which won't be noticed by the majority of listeners. They can also reproduce fine time gradations which is a nice bonus.

The HD 800 S are a pair exceptional headphones, perfect for audiophiles and professionals. Their outstanding sonic performance and comfortable fit make them a top choice. They are expensive however you're buying headphones that will last for years to be used and perform well in any setting.

Anker Soundcore Life Q20

The Anker Soundcore Q20 is a good set of headphones for anyone who wants to relax or simply want an affordable set of noise cancelling headphones. The headphones come with a basic bag that protects them when you throw them into bags. 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 heavy and warm.

The Life Q20's controls are simple to use and are well-marked. On the left ear cup there are buttons for powering up and pairing 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 assistance and turns on Anker BassUp (more about this later). The built-in mic can be used to make phone calls hands-free.

Anker's Soundcore Life Q20 headphone offers a deep immersive listening experience thanks to its custom 40mm dynamic driver that provides certified Hi-Res audio. The headphones feature a treble range that reaches up to 40 kHz. Their active noise cancelling technology is designed to block out a variety of low- and mid-frequency sound.

Anker Soundcore Q20 does not support aptX. This is a pity. This means you won't be able to take advantage of the superior codec's lower latency while gaming on your PC.

The Life Q20's headband as well as memory foam earcups are soft enough to wear for long periods of time without discomfort. The ear cups also be rotated to accommodate the shape of your head. The included 3.5mm audio cable allows you to listen to music while charging the battery.