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10 Best Headphones

From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Audio-Technica M50xBT2 Wireless Headphone Black

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,422
Sound Quality
Comfort and Fit
Durability
Sound Quality
The headphones deliver exceptionally clear and detailed sound, making every note, beat, and breath stand out as if in a personal concert.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is outstanding, allowing for hours of wear without any discomfort, ideal for long listening sessions.
Durability
The build quality feels solid and lightweight, with a design that folds neatly for easy storage and travel.
Battery Life
Battery life impresses with extended playback time and quick charging that fits well into busy schedules.
Connectivity
Three detachable cables included offer great flexibility for different listening setups and devices.
Noise Cancellation
The headphones provide impressive isolation, effectively blocking out background noise without complete isolation.
Additional Features
Low latency mode helps maintain sync between audio and video, enhancing gaming and streaming experiences.

The Audio-Technica M50xBT2 is a wireless version of the well-known M50x studio headphones, offering excellent sound quality that fans of detailed and balanced audio will appreciate. They shine with a very long battery life, providing up to 50 hours of playback on a single charge, and a quick 10-minute charge gives you around 3 hours of use, which is convenient for busy users. Comfort is well considered, with professional-grade earpads and a sturdy headband designed for extended wear without discomfort.

The headphones connect via Bluetooth and also support a wired connection through a detachable 3.5 mm cable, making them flexible for different devices. They include dual microphones with beamforming technology to improve call clarity, and you can easily mute the mic with a button, which is handy for calls and online meetings. These headphones do not feature active noise cancellation, so they might not block out background noise as well as some other models, which is worth considering if you need this for noisy environments.

The build is durable but mainly plastic, so while they feel solid, they are not water-resistant and should be handled with some care. Their low latency mode helps keep audio and video in sync, making them suitable for gaming and video streaming. In summary, these headphones are a strong choice if you prioritize sound quality, battery life, and comfort in a wireless design but don't require noise cancellation.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,422
Sound Quality
Comfort and Fit
Durability
Sound Quality
The headphones deliver exceptionally clear and detailed sound, making every note, beat, and breath stand out as if in a personal concert.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is outstanding, allowing for hours of wear without any discomfort, ideal for long listening sessions.
Durability
The build quality feels solid and lightweight, with a design that folds neatly for easy storage and travel.
Battery Life
Battery life impresses with extended playback time and quick charging that fits well into busy schedules.
Connectivity
Three detachable cables included offer great flexibility for different listening setups and devices.
Noise Cancellation
The headphones provide impressive isolation, effectively blocking out background noise without complete isolation.
Additional Features
Low latency mode helps maintain sync between audio and video, enhancing gaming and streaming experiences.
#2

Audio-Technica M50x Professional Monitor Headphones Black

Rating
9.7
Sound Quality
Additional Features
Durability
Sound Quality
The Audio-Technica M50x headphones are incredible, offering a breathtaking sound experience, especially when paired with an audio interface.
Additional Features
The addition of detachable cables in the M50x model addresses previous inconvenience, making them much more user-friendly and versatile.
Durability
The build quality combines decent metal parts with sturdy plastic, though some users notice an audible clicking noise when adjusting the ear cups.

The Audio-Technica M50x Professional Monitor Headphones are highly praised for their outstanding sound quality, featuring proprietary 45 mm drivers with rare earth magnets for accurate audio reproduction. With a frequency response of up to 28,000 Hz, they ensure a detailed sound experience, ideal for music production and critical listening. The circumaural design provides effective sound isolation in noisy environments, though it lacks active noise cancellation, which may be a downside for some users.

In terms of comfort, the professional-grade earpads and headband material offer durability and a comfortable fit for extended periods of use. However, as they are over-ear headphones, they might be bulky for some users. Battery life isn't a concern here as they are wired headphones, ensuring uninterrupted listening sessions. Connectivity is limited to wired with a 3.5 mm jack, which might not appeal to those preferring wireless options. The detachable cable adds convenience and reduces wear and tear.

Durability is a strong point due to quality materials used in construction. They are lightweight at 290 grams, making them portable. Additional features like the included cables enhance usability, but the lack of advanced features such as wireless connectivity, built-in microphone, or active noise cancellation might be considered drawbacks for some users. These headphones are particularly suited for professionals in audio engineering, musicians, and DJs who require precise sound reproduction and comfort during long sessions.

Rating
9.7
Sound Quality
Additional Features
Durability
Sound Quality
The Audio-Technica M50x headphones are incredible, offering a breathtaking sound experience, especially when paired with an audio interface.
Additional Features
The addition of detachable cables in the M50x model addresses previous inconvenience, making them much more user-friendly and versatile.
Durability
The build quality combines decent metal parts with sturdy plastic, though some users notice an audible clicking noise when adjusting the ear cups.
#3

Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO Limited Black Edition Open-Back Studio Headphones 80 Ohm

Rating
9.7
Type
Sound Quality
Comfort and Fit
Type
The open-back design offers a spacious soundstage and increased comfort during extended sessions, preventing the sweaty feeling often associated with long wear.
Sound Quality
The balanced and accurate sound profile of the DT 990 Pro makes them ideal for critical listening tasks such as mixing, mastering, and editing.
Comfort and Fit
Impressive build quality with durable materials and an adjustable headband ensure a comfortable fit for most head sizes.
Durability
Impressive build quality with durable materials and an adjustable headband ensure a comfortable fit for most head sizes.

The beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro headphones are a solid choice for those seeking professional-grade sound quality. These open-back, over-ear headphones are specifically designed for studio use, making them ideal for mixing, mastering, and critical listening. They offer a transparent and spacious sound with robust bass and treble, which is a significant advantage for audio professionals who need precise sound reproduction. In terms of comfort, the DT 990 Pro features soft, circumaural velour ear pads, which are replaceable and provide high wearing comfort for long studio sessions.

However, as they are open-back headphones, they are not suitable for use in noisy environments as they allow external noises in and let sound out, which might not be ideal for personal, on-the-go listening. The headphones are wired with a 3.5mm jack and have a sensitivity of 96 dB and an impedance of 80 Ohms, which means they may require a headphone amplifier for optimal performance, especially when connected to devices with lower power output like smartphones. The passive noise cancellation is limited compared to active alternatives, but this is typical for open-back designs.

Durability is another strong point, with robust German craftsmanship using reliable plastic and aluminium materials. These headphones are built to withstand everyday studio use. However, they may be on the heavier side at 340 grams, which could affect comfort during extended wear. Though they lack wireless capabilities, the DT 990 Pro headphones are well-suited for stationary studio setups and are highly compatible with a wide range of devices, including music production equipment, laptops, and desktops. With an expansive frequency range of 5 - 35,000 Hz, these headphones are particularly appealing to audio professionals looking for detailed and precise sound. They come with useful accessories, including a stereo jack adapter and a pull bag, adding convenience for studio users.

Rating
9.7
Type
Sound Quality
Comfort and Fit
Type
The open-back design offers a spacious soundstage and increased comfort during extended sessions, preventing the sweaty feeling often associated with long wear.
Sound Quality
The balanced and accurate sound profile of the DT 990 Pro makes them ideal for critical listening tasks such as mixing, mastering, and editing.
Comfort and Fit
Impressive build quality with durable materials and an adjustable headband ensure a comfortable fit for most head sizes.
Durability
Impressive build quality with durable materials and an adjustable headband ensure a comfortable fit for most head sizes.

Buying Guide for the Best Headphones

Choosing the right headphones can greatly enhance your listening experience, whether you're using them for music, gaming, or work. The key is to understand the different specifications and how they align with your needs. By focusing on the right specs, you can find a pair of headphones that offer the best sound quality, comfort, and functionality for you.
TypeHeadphones come in various types, including over-ear, on-ear, and in-ear. Over-ear headphones cover your entire ear and are generally the most comfortable for long listening sessions, providing excellent sound quality and noise isolation. On-ear headphones sit on top of your ears and are more portable but may not be as comfortable for extended use. In-ear headphones, or earbuds, fit inside your ear canal and are the most portable, making them ideal for on-the-go use. Choose the type based on where and how long you plan to use them.
Sound QualitySound quality is crucial for an enjoyable listening experience. It includes factors like frequency response, which indicates the range of sounds the headphones can produce, and driver size, which affects the loudness and clarity. A wider frequency response (e.g., 20Hz-20kHz) generally means better sound quality. Larger drivers (measured in millimeters) usually provide better bass and overall sound. If you are a music enthusiast or a professional, prioritize high sound quality. For casual listeners, a balanced sound profile will suffice.
Noise CancellationNoise cancellation technology reduces unwanted ambient sounds, allowing you to focus on your audio. There are two types: active noise cancellation (ANC) and passive noise isolation. ANC uses microphones and speakers to cancel out external noise, making it ideal for noisy environments like airplanes or public transport. Passive noise isolation relies on the physical design of the headphones to block out noise. If you frequently find yourself in noisy settings, ANC headphones are a great choice. For quieter environments, passive isolation may be sufficient.
Comfort and FitComfort and fit are essential, especially if you plan to wear your headphones for extended periods. Look for features like adjustable headbands, cushioned ear cups, and lightweight designs. Over-ear and on-ear headphones should have ample padding, while in-ear models should come with multiple ear tip sizes to ensure a snug fit. If you use headphones for long hours, prioritize comfort to avoid discomfort or fatigue.
Battery LifeFor wireless headphones, battery life is a critical factor. It determines how long you can use the headphones before needing to recharge. Battery life can range from a few hours to over 30 hours, depending on the model and usage. If you use headphones for long commutes or travel, look for models with longer battery life. For occasional use, shorter battery life may be acceptable.
ConnectivityHeadphones can be wired or wireless. Wired headphones offer a stable connection and do not require charging, making them ideal for stationary use. Wireless headphones provide more freedom of movement and often come with Bluetooth connectivity. Some models also support advanced codecs like aptX for better sound quality. If you value mobility and convenience, wireless headphones are the way to go. For consistent, high-quality audio, wired headphones are preferable.
DurabilityDurability is important, especially if you plan to use your headphones frequently or in various environments. Look for materials like metal or high-quality plastic and features like reinforced cables and water resistance. If you are active or travel often, choose headphones that are built to withstand wear and tear. For home or office use, durability may be less of a concern.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance your headphone experience. These may include built-in microphones for calls, touch controls, voice assistant integration, and customizable sound profiles. Consider what extra features are important to you based on how you plan to use the headphones. For example, if you take a lot of calls, a good microphone is essential. If you enjoy tweaking your audio settings, look for headphones with customizable sound profiles.