Best Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones completely surround your ears and allow you to fully immerse in sound. They are usually designed for audiophiles and have features like active noise cancelling and control apps.
The Focal Bathys are a wireless speaker with ANC and a mobile application to adjust the EQ and presets. They also support hi-res audio for wired listening through USB-C.
Sony WH-1000XM5
The WH-1000XM5 is Sony's latest addition to their top-of-the-line noise cancellation line-up. They have a fresh new design, enhanced ANC and a host of the same features as their predecessors but with better materials and slightly higher-quality sound.
With only 250g, they are lightweight for over-ear ANC headsets. They're very comfortable to wear, even if you're reading or listening to the audiobook. The headband has a friction-rod design similar to the Grado Labs SR60x, which will keep your ears from becoming too cold.
With an audio quality that is able to please those who enjoy music casually and audiophiles, the WH1000XM5's sound signature is tuned to have a slight emphasis on bass, but it isn't excessively loud or harsh. The earphones feature a wide and wide soundstage, as well as good instrument separation. This lets you be able to hear the finer details of your music. The earcups come with touch controls that are simple and responsive. You can swipe forward to access the next track, then back to hear the previous one as well as up and down to regulate the volume. The headphones can connect to two devices simultaneously and will automatically stop playback when you take them off your head due to the built-in sensor. You can also activate the ambient mode by placing your palm on the right ear cup that lets you listen to what's happening around you without taking off the headphones.
They can also be linked with your voice assistant. Bluetooth low-energy is also supported, as is high-resolution audio (via LDAC). The headphones come with a carrying case made of premium fabric, and a USB-C charging cable. The headphones are compatible with Android and iOS smartphones, as well as computers running Windows or macOS. The WH-1000XM5's life expectancy is awe-inspiring. In our standard test we were able achieve 31 hours and 53 minutes with the ANC switched on which is more than Sony's advertised battery life of 30 hours.
The WH1000XM5 has a great microphone for making calls. There's no muffled or static audio in the background. The noise cancellation is top-quality, and they're a good fit for public transport or the office.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 is a significant upgrade from its predecessor, providing premium performance and features. It features wireless streaming with 24-bit, optimized active noise cancellation, as well as clear voice call quality on any compatible tablet or mobile phone. The 40mm drivers, that are custom-designed and angled to fit in each earcup, provide a more deep and focused listening experience. Six strategically placed microphones ensure exceptional call clarity even in noisy environments. And an inline remote and microphone let you control your calls and music on any device compatible with it.
Like the PX7's original design The headphones sport elegant and refined with accent rings around each earcup and a silver sheen on the headband. The earcups are cushioned by memory foam and fit comfortably on the cranium, yet never feel tight. The new form and shape was developed over the course of several months and offers a comfortable clamping pressure that doesn't force into my skull, which is a rotund one.
At 10.8 ounces (or 307g) They're 2 ounces lighter than Sony WH-1000XM5, as well as slightly thinner. The headphones are light enough to be carried in a backpack or bag and remain in place during long listening sessions. The headband can be folded up 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 as tight video sync. You can also play them wired too, using the included 3.5mm cable that connects to an USB-C port located on the right earcup. The status indicator on the earphone is a nice feature. It flashes green to indicate rapid charging, and solid blue to indicate Bluetooth pairing.
The B&W App offers the same control options that the hardware onboard buttons offer - bass and treble adjustments, action button assignments, wear detection, the ability to cycle through ANC modes and more. The app also shows an album cover and track's title when you play music on your iPhone. The most popular extras like music presets, soundscapes and music mode are missing, however.
Sennheiser HD 800 S
The HD 800 S is the successor to the legendary headphones made by Sennheiser, and it is designed to meet the highest demands. Its construction technology is optimized to give the highest resolution in detail that covers all frequencies, dynamic range, and stereo panorama. It provides the most realistic audio you'll experience on open-back headphones.
The headphone has an impedance of 300 ohms, therefore it requires a premium headphone amplifier to drive it at the right levels, without distortion. A balanced connection is recommended, because it will increase the output power and improve the overall sound quality.
These headphones are made to be used by professionals and have a sturdy steel frame, with a mixture of leather and plastic. The design is simple and they're not fancy, but the quality of the headphones and their construction are excellent. They come with a carrying case, an extra audio cable and a 1/4" to 1-/8" adapter.
With a neutral sound profile, the HD 800 S reproduces natural instruments and vocals, though they are a bit light on bass. This is due to the open-back design creates a large and out-of-head passive soundstage. headphone shops uk is superb, with only minor peaks and dips. The treble area is extremely smooth, meaning you'll not have issues hitting sibilants or the upper bite of the drum snare.
Even with the absence of booming bass, they can still produce a punch and dynamism when required. These headphones are still great for those who enjoy rock music that has punchy bass however they might not sound as great as the other models on this list.
The Sennheiser headphones have a great midrange. They are straight and have an incline on the upper mids, which won't be noticed by most listeners. They also have the ability to reproduce precise time gradations in vocals which is a huge benefit.
The HD 800 S are a pair of outstanding headphones, ideal for audiophiles and professionals. Their outstanding sonic performance and comfortable fitting make them a great choice. The headphones are expensive but they will last you for many years and perform in any situation.
Anker Soundcore Life q20
The Anker Soundcore Q20 is a decent pair of headphones for those looking to kill time or simply want an affordable pair of headphones that cancel out noise. The headphones come with a simple bag that will protect them when you throw them into a bag. Their battery can last for a long time on long-haul flights. The ANC works well to block out loud passengers and engine rumbles. However, their audio profile is a bit heavy and warm.
The Life Q20's controls are easy to use and clearly marked. On the left ear cup there are buttons to power up and pair the headphones, as well as to turn off or on active noise cancellation. On the right earcup, there are media playback controls. This includes a multi-function button that activates your phone's voice assistance and switches on Anker BassUp (more about this later). You can also make use of the built-in microphone to make calls hands-free with your phone.
Anker's Soundcore Q20 headphone offers a deep immersive listening experience thanks to its custom 40 mm dynamic driver that provides certified Hi-Res audio. With a treble that stretches up to 40 kHz the headphones can provide outstanding clarity and detail, while their active noise cancellation technology is designed to block out a wider range of mid- and low-frequency sounds.
One thing to remember about the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 is that it doesn't support the aptX codec, which is disappointing. This means that you won't be capable of taking advantage of the superior codec's low latency when playing games on your PC.
The Life Q20's headband and memory foam ear cups are soft enough to wear for long periods without discomfort. The ear cups are also capable of rotating so that they can adjust to the specific shape of your head, so you can achieve a perfect fit. You can also enjoy your music with a 3.5mm cable and a microUSB cable is provided for charging the battery.