Experts have ranked the top selections for the best over-ear headphones in 2024

If you are looking for the best headphones for sound quality, the finest noise cancellation technology to block out your surroundings, or the headphones that will last the longest for your commute and travel, our shopping guide will break down all of the best performers in each area.

the best over-ear headphones in 2024

Finding the finest over-ear headphones that cover your full ear with sound may often seem daunting since there are hundreds of different designs to choose from, many of which provide comparable features and high levels of performance. With models beginning at $99 and every price point in between up to $699, I have done all the hard work for you by identifying the finest over-ear headphones you can purchase right now for every activity. I have done this by selecting the best headphones for every activity.

All of the over-ear headphones have been put through rigorous testing by audio professionals who are well-versed in all aspects of excellent sound. As a result, you can be certain that you will be able to enjoy the greatest possible audio experience in models that are both very durable and extremely comfortable. Continue reading to learn how to select the greatest over-ear headphones that are budget-friendly.

Over-ear headphones that are the best overall

1. Sony WH-1000XM5

The XM5 headphones, which were released in 2022 and are Sony’s flagship model in the XM series, are an improvement over the XM4 headphones, which were already excellent. The XM5 headphones include improved active noise cancellation, call quality, sound, comfort, and connection, as well as a streamlined design and significant environmental credentials. Despite the fact that the bulk of the performance modifications are not very significant — although the first two are undoubtedly obvious — it is sufficient to guarantee that the most recent iteration of the well-known XM-series will continue to hold the top spot.

Not only are the touch controls and battery life commendable, but also the superb Sony Headphones Control software, which allows you to adjust the equalization to your liking and lasts for thirty hours with active noise cancellation (ANC) turned on and forty hours with it turned off. Despite the fact that the XM4s are still available and cost less, the fact remains that these headphones are, without a doubt, the greatest wireless headphones that money can buy. However, the design of these headphones is a little bit boring, which may be a deterrent for some consumers. If you are still not persuaded, then you should check out our comparison of the Sony WH-1000XM5 and the WH-1000XM4 to see how they compare to one another.

OVER-EAR HEADPHONES THAT ARE THE BEST VALUE

2. Sennheiser Accentum

The Sennheiser Accentum headphones are a set of headphones that are priced in the middle and provide a wealth of premium features. It is likely that the most remarkable feature of the Accentum noise-cancelling headphones is the fact that they have a battery life of fifty hours and a rapid charge that allows for up to five hours of listening time after just ten minutes of charging has been completed.

The Momentum 4 Wireless, which is rated below, serves as the foundation for these low-cost Sennheiser headphones. Despite having drivers that are significantly smaller, these headphones are able to capture the distinctive sound of the firm. There is a plenty of deep bass notes available to provide whatever it is that you are listening to with the appropriate amount of energy without placing an excessive amount of emphasis on low frequencies. It seems as if everything is balanced properly, and there is a lot of clarity in the middle range.

ANC is quite successful in reducing background noises to a pool of quiet, and Transparency mode was very excellent throughout my testing. Both of these modes are recommended highly. Two microphones are integrated into the Accentum, and it also features a mode that is specifically designed to reduce wind noise when it comes to accepting voice calls. The Multipoint feature allows for a smooth transition from one Bluetooth device to another, and it also has an adjustable side-tone that works to ensure that conversations remain as natural as possible.

HEADPHONES WITH THE BEST NOISE-CANCELING OVER-EAR DESIGN

3. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

In terms of noise-cancelling headphones, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are the finest headphones available. The firm has once again set the standard for active noise-cancelling headphones, which effectively silence the outside world around you. These headphones are the successor for the Bose 700, which was released by the company. The latest edition has a variety of additional features, such as Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint connection, aptX Adaptive compatibility, and touch volume control. Additionally, it comes equipped with Immersive Audio technology. Everything is available in a brand-new, contemporary style that is not only lightweight but also comfortable enough to be worn for long periods of time.

Depending on the environment you are in, you may choose from a number of different noise cancellation settings to achieve a balance between the amount of silence and the level of transparency. There have been modifications made to the controls and design that make the usage of the device more practical and smooth. The battery life has been increased to provide up to twenty-four hours of use. The QC Ultra raise the bar for Bose and are as near to flawless as you are going to get in the category of noise-cancelling headphones. While the Bose 700 are a wonderful alternative choice to consider and can often be found reduced in our top headphone offers, the QC Ultra are the greatest headphones that Bose has to offer.

OVER-EAR HEADPHONES THAT ARE THE BEST FOR BATTERAGE LIFE

4. Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless

In spite of the fact that the upgraded design of Sennheiser’s fourth generation Momentum Wireless headphones does not stand out as much as its predecessor, which had a more traditional appearance, the fact that they have a battery life of sixty hours is a genuine crowd pleaser and makes them the best option available. The Momentum 4 are one of the most practical wireless headphones we’ve encountered, since they are well constructed for a life on the road rather than being attached to a power connection and requiring frequent battery top-ups. The Sennheiser sound is easygoing, and the noise cancellation is efficient.

The Sennheiser smooth house sound was able to manage a broad variety of musical styles with ease throughout my testing. It was able to handle anything from pounding drums to more subtle tracks. They are compatible with Bluetooth 5.2 and aptX Adaptive, and a 3.5mm connector is included for audiophiles who want to make wired connections (wired connections). When I was standing on a windy train station during my regular commute to work, the performance of advanced noise cancellation (ANC) was effective, and the auto Wind Noise Reduction was really amazing. Because to the combination of excellent sound quality, high degrees of comfort, and

The Finest Premium Headphones for Over-Ear Use

5. Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e

The new S2e headphones are a “evolved” version of the business’s entry-level headphones, much as the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 headphones from the same manufacturer. See how they stack up against one another in my comparison of the Sony WH-1000XM5 and the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e, which is priced at $399. The pricing of these headphones is identical to that of the Sony WH-1000XM5.

Their appearance is similar to that of their predecessor, and they feel just as nice. They are exquisitely crafted and seem to be of superior quality in comparison to the majority of their competitors in terms of construction and finish. One example is that numerous noise-cancelling headphones that are priced similarly to the Px7 S2e seem to be made of plastic. However, the Px7 S2e has a textured surface that is not only fashionable but also does not reveal finger marks in the same way that some of its competitors do. However, in contrast to the S2, the new S2e version does not include a significant amount of enhanced capability. This is similar to the S2 version.

In addition to a re-tuned acoustic performance and 24-bit digital signal processing (DSP), the S2e is an advanced version of the business’s flagship headphones, the Px8, which served as a source of inspiration and an educational experience for the company. In a nutshell, they are intended to provide the highest quality wireless sound that can be purchased for this amount of money, and they do so. The bass kick that they gave to my music offered a little more vitality than many of their competitors in terms of pricing, and I found that to be very appealing in my evaluation. In terms of noise cancellation, the noise cancellation was good, but it was not the most powerful model available at the price point. The remainder of the frequency spectrum was properly chosen.

All things considered, they are an excellent purchase for someone who is actually concerned about the quality of the music and is less concerned with noise cancellation or the most recent features.

THE ULTIMATE IN DELUXE OVER-EAR HEADPHONES

6. Bowers & Wilkins Px8

Bowers & Wilkins’ Px8 headphones are the company’s most sophisticated noise-cancelling headphones to date, and they are a confident addition to the market for premium sound headphones. Cables are provided for wired headphone jack connections as well as wireless audio over Bluetooth 5.2, which supports SBC, AAC, aptX HD, and aptX Adaptive codecs when connected to compatible playback devices. Additionally, cables are provided for wireless audio.

Furthermore, the unique 40mm Carbon Cone drive units have delicious soft leather to further help in comfort, and they deliver even more sound details throughout all sections of the frequency spectrum than the company’s high-ranking Px7 S2 does. Because to the improved driver material, the Px8 has a more nimble bass performance than its predecessor. The mid frequencies, on the other hand, are where these premium headphones shine. They provide a plethora of natural detail and midrange clarity, which enables each and every vocal phrase to sound authentically lifelike. In spite of the improvements in sound quality, the fact that the price is greater in comparison to that of its companion Px7 S2 and its close competitors means that they rank somewhat worse in terms of overall value. On the other hand, they are difficult to surpass when it comes to practical premium design and excellent levels of comfort during extended listening.

THE VERY BEST OVER-EAR HEADPHONES FOR AUDIOPHONES

7. Focal Bathys

They are a terrific, high-performance headphone that is well suited to critical audiophile listening at home, while also being practical and conveniently wireless to allow owners to enjoy them when they are on the go. The Focal Bathys provide brilliant adaptability. With flagship features such as Focal’s dynamic drivers, an integrated DAC with complete support for high-resolution audio, and top-tier audio performance, the price of $799 may seem to be rather exorbitant at first, but when you consider all of these characteristics, it becomes apparent that the price is really quite reasonable.

The sound quality of the Bathys is guaranteed to be exceptional thanks to the combination of Focal’s M-dome speaker drivers and compatibility for high-resolution audio. During our listening sessions, recordings were deeply layered, which provided instruments with lots of space to breathe. Additionally, the integrated digital audio converter (DAC) is fantastic for uncompressed 24-bit sound when it is linked to lossless sources like Apple Music and Tidal. There is an increase in the degree of tightness in the delivery, as well as an increase in the degree of fidelity.

IOS users should look for the best over-ear headphones.

8. Apple AirPods Max

In spite of the fact that the AirPods Max have been on the market since the year 2020 and have, for the most part, kept their exorbitantly expensive price (although they are sometimes available at a discount on the internet), they have managed to keep their position as one of the greatest headphones and continue to enjoy widespread popularity. There may be some disagreement among purchasers over their unusual appearance, which is comprised of aluminum and mesh fabric; yet, they are plush and comfortable, and their sound quality and ANC efficacy continue to rank among the finest noise-cancelling headphones now available.

It is possible that they may not support Apple Adaptive Audio, which is Apple’s most recent set of capabilities; nevertheless, they do have Adaptive Equalization. This allows the sound output to be customized in accordance with the position of the AirPods Max on your head. Frequencies are adjusted to take into consideration the size of your ears as well as the comfortable fit of the earcups.

During the course of our testing, we discovered that the sound output of the AirPods Max was something that we appreciated across all of our preferred musical genres. However, the element that we found to be the most impressive was Apple’s spatial audio listening capability, which was a substantial improvement. In the end, the AirPods Max are the most expensive set of headphones that Apple has ever produced; yet, the fact that they are very comfortable, have excellent audio quality, and include killer features like as spatial audio makes them an excellent over-ear choice that is designed specifically for iOS users.

THE BEST FOR LESS THAN $99

9. Anker Soundcore Space One

Adaptive active noise cancellation, Bluetooth 5.3 with compatibility for the LDAC codec, adjustable sound, multipoint technology, and some of the most powerful rapid charging available are just some of the premium features that are included in the Soundcore Space One. Features like as extended playtimes, individualized listening modes, and secure volume settings are included in the extensive number of available options.

Anker had adjusted the sound profile to achieve a balance between the mids and highs, and listening with active noise cancellation (ANC) turned on causes the low end to be amplified. However, our reviewer discovered that the Space One had a deep bass. The dynamic sound quality of the Space One is complemented with adaptive active noise cancellation (ANC), which can be customized and used in a variety of different ways. There are two types of noise cancellation: Adaptive Noise Cancelling, which adjusts performance to the noise levels in your environment, and Customize Noise Cancelling, which allows you to set noise neutralization to one of five different levels. These are a fantastic alternative for those on a budget, and they come in hues like as sky blue, latte cream, and jet black. At the price of $99, they are a probable candidate for the greatest value.

A COMPARISON OF THE BEST DETAILS OF OVER-EAR HEADPHONES

We put a lot of over-ear headphones through our testing process here at Tom’s Guide, but not all of them are able to make it into our purchasing recommendations. Whether it’s because of superior performance or more powerful features offered by competing models in a certain category and price range, there are a few that fall short of placing anywhere on our list by the tiniest of margins. These models are excellent rivals and wonderful alternatives to take into account, taking all of this into perspective.

Sony WH-CH520: These on-ear headphones are a terrific value choice for individuals who are on a budget, and they incorporate many of the features that we like about the company’s more expensive headphone designs. The Sony Headphones Connect app has a variety of helpful sound tools that allow you to fine-tune the audio settings to get the most out of your music. Additional features include a battery life of fifty hours, a faster charging time, and the ability to fine-tune the audio settings. The headband is extensible and does not become fragile even when it is extended to its greatest extent. The headphones weigh just 5.1 ounces, yet they have a substantial and durable feel to them.

We were impressed by the sound quality during our testing, which included a bass that was deep and nuanced, as well as a middle that was clear and distinct. Additionally, the app offers compatibility for Sony’s 360 Reality Audio. The Sony WH-CH520 headphones are a practical and inexpensive alternative for casual listening at home and in the office. Although they do not have noise cancellation and the built-in microphones are only somewhat adequate for making calls, they are still a good choice.

HOW DO YOU WANT TO CHOOSE THE BEST HEADPHONES THAT ARE OVER YOUR EARS?

Things to think about before making a purchase

1. Design: When you are looking for headphones, you have already cut down the options somewhat by picking on a set of headphones that are especially designed to cover the ears. In spite of this, there is still a great deal of difference in the design of individual pairs, so in order to determine how comfortable they could be, you need still pay attention to aspects like as the shape of the headband or the amount of cushioning that is included in the earcups. Don’t be scared to turn down headphones that you don’t like the way they seem from an aesthetic standpoint.

Second, the quality of the sound is obviously very significant. There is more information on how we evaluate this below, but before you do so, you should think about whether you would like a sound that is balanced or one that emphasizes a certain area of the frequency spectrum. For instance, those who are interested in electronic music could want it to have a big bass. There are a number of over-ear headphones that come with mobile applications that allow you to adjust the equalization to your preferences.

When activated, the ANC technology has the potential to compress sound and diminish dynamics, which may have an impact on the performance of the audio. When listening to music, you could sometimes become aware of a hissing sound in the background. The finest noise-cancelling earphones, on the other hand, dampen these disturbances so that they can transmit sound that is complete and clear.

Battery life: You should also consider how much battery life you will need for your device. Over-ear headphones have the ability to provide anywhere from twenty to sixty hours of playing, which means that you should never have to recharge them too often. However, it is generally true that longer playback times are preferable. It is important to keep in mind that active noise cancellation (ANC) can shorten the battery life of your device when it is on since it must provide continuous power to the microphones that are installed on the vehicle.

4. Taking into account the cost There is no denying that the cost is a significant factor to take into account while searching for the finest over-ear headphones. Big-name brands will often cost a little more than other brands, but in general, the less money you spend on a pair of headphones, the higher the likelihood that the sound quality and functionality will be sacrificed. However, there are always exceptions to this rule. If you are frequently in need of recharging your audio equipment or if the sound quality is bad, then going with a cheap option is not always the ideal decision. This is because whatever money you save on your purchase won’t do you much good.

As the proverb says, time is everything, and at the moment, many of our favorite models are being reduced by online merchants, which means that you may get a deal for even less money. You can stay up with the most recent reductions by bookmarking our website that features the finest headphone offers.

HOW WE CHOOSE THE BEST HEADPHONES THAT GO OVER THE EARS?

We conduct exhaustive tests on each and every pair of headphones, taking into account a wide range of characteristics, and we use a testing methodology that is constant throughout, so that any comparisons with other pairs are reliable and objective. Our extensive tests have shown that this type of passive noise isolation is very effective at minimising disruptive background noise even before you have switched in any active noise cancellation (ANC) technology that your chosen model may have. Over-ear designs are also good at reducing the external noise of your surroundings, and they do a good job of doing so.

Every single pair of headphones that cover the ears has been worn for a period of one week, with each pair being worn for a duration of two hours at a time. The tester is able to evaluate the sound quality across a variety of musical genres and levels, as well as determine how comfortable the headphones are while worn for lengthy periods of time throughout the testing process. In order to evaluate the performance of each pair, we will listen to a variety of music genres, including hip-hop, rock, jazz, classical, pop, and more. Additionally, we will do the same with movies, podcasts, and games, if relevant. Discover how we put demo songs through their paces and how you can do the same in our guide to achieving the finest possible sound quality with your headphones.

We will also ensure that the promises made by the manufacturer regarding battery life and Bluetooth range are correct, and we will evaluate the performance of functions like as noise-cancelling in real-world scenarios. The quality of the build, the simplicity of the setup process, and any control systems, including those that include an application, will also be evaluated.

We use a five-point scale to evaluate over-ear headphones, with one being the worst and five being the finest. A product may also be considered for an Editor’s Choice award if it is rated four stars or higher and demonstrates exceptional performance in one or more specific categories.