When the world first turned to earbuds for sound enjoyment, some people thought that over-the-ear headphones were soon going to be relics from the past. Before long, people realized that the best over-ear headphones not only provide superior sound quality from larger, better-quality drivers, but they also help to block out distracting ambient sound so you can better enjoy the music on your favorite playlist, videos, and games with a more immersive sound experience. Over-the-ear headphones are back in a big way.

When it comes time to choose a pair of headphones, the options can be overwhelming, and the price ranges are extremely variable. Surprisingly, many of the best over-ear headphones that offer a variety of desirable features are in the mid to low price ranges. While some of the most expensive options may have smooth, buttery, flawless sound quality, some headphones in the more budget-friendly price ranges have surprisingly great sound quality and even feature cool and unique options that aren’t found in some of the best over-ear headphones that cost a whole lot more.

While the build quality of some of the less expensive options might include leatherette rather than leather, and plastic-framed headpieces rather than metal, there is much to be said about the lighter weight of plastic frames, and the comfort of memory-foam covered in the soft, ear-friendly fabrics found in many of these brands. As long as the sound-quality is not an afterthought, some of the best over-ear headphones available today are surprisingly reasonable in price.

Here are the best over-ear headphones available today, in a variety of price-ranges from lower, to mid-range, to the higher-end price range. Each choice has many exceptional features, making them all excellent options to consider when shopping for your next headphones.

The best over-ear headphones should be comfortable enough for long-wear during any activity. Treblab Z2 Over-Ear Workout Headphones with Bluetooth 5.0 feature a pressure-free design with comfortably padded earcups that have a full swiveling feature for freedom of movement. The ultra-soft pads have a skin-like feel and are sweat-resistant with an IPX4 water-resistant design. Feel free and confident enough to use them even during tough, sweaty workouts. The ear-pads mold to any ear shape for the most comfortable fit.

Treblab Z2 Over Ear Workout Headphones use a Qualcomm CSR Chipset to deliver high-quality sound with deep, resonant bass, clear, high treble, crisp vocals, and music the way the artist intended it to sound. Powerful 40mm Neodymium-backed speakers allow powerful sound with a fully immersive quality you will enjoy in any surroundings.

These comfortable headphones not only offer high-quality sound, they are also ideal for noisy environments with Treblab’s T-Quiet Active Noise Canceling Technology. You’ll enjoy your favorite playlist no matter how loud your surroundings are during travel, workouts, the office, or at home. The built-in microphone with advanced cVc 6.0 technology allows you to take hands-free calls without missing a step. Adjust the volume or change tracks with the easy-to-use button controls with no need to remove the headphones. You can also enjoy hands-free voice commands with Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant.

The Treblab Z2 Over-Ear Workout Headphones have a long-lasting battery with up to 35-hours of playtime on a full charge, making them some of the best over-ear headphones for all-day use.

Key Features
  • Comfortable, pressure-free over-ear headphones with Bluetooth 5.0 and built-in mic
  • Active Noise Cancellation technology
  • 40mm Neodymium speakers
  • Swiveling earcups with ultra-soft padding and IPX4 water-resistance
  • Ultra-focused bass with Qualcomm CSR Chipset
Specifications
  • Compatible With: Bluetooth-enabled devices
  • Brand: Treblab
Pros
  • Up to 35-hour battery life
  • Includes protective carrying case
  • Sweat-resistant IPX4 water-resistant ear pads
  • Deep, rich bass
Cons
  • Noise-canceling technology makes a hissing sound that’s audible in quiet surroundings
  • Sound quality isn’t as good when the ANC is turned off
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TREBLAB Z2 Over-Ear Workout Headphones

One of the best over-ear headphones to take to the gym are the Treblab Z2 Ultra Premium Over-Ear Wireless Headphones. Not only are they designed to fit comfortably and securely throughout even vigorous workouts, they are also sweat-proof and water-resistant an with IPX4 water rating. So there’s no need to worry about a sweaty workout ruining your headphones. They are also great for jogging or running. With up to 35 hours of playtime, you don’t have to worry about losing power in the middle of a workout. The ear cups are made of moldable high-end plush materials that fit snugly against any ear shape for a secure fit.

Treblab makes these over-ear headphones more rugged and durable, with extra long battery life so you’ll have your favorite music or podcast throughout your workout or run. The T-Quiet technology provides extra noise-cancellation to help block out background noise so you are better able to focus on both your workout and your music.

Treblab Z2 Ultra Premium Over-Ear Wireless Headphones deliver excellent sound quality with a Qualcomm CSR Chipset for Hyper-HD sound with more focused bass from Neodymium-backed 40mm drivers.

Bluetooth 5.0 technology will ensure instant pairing and a secure connection even when you are making rapid workout movements. You can also use Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant commands for hands-free operation and take a call without missing a beat.

Treblab Z2 Ultra Premium Over-Ear Wireless Headphones come with a protective carrying case, so your headphones won’t be damaged by bouncing around in a gym bag or backpack. A 3.5 mm audio cable and user manual is included.

For great sound quality, secure fit and connection, as well as toughness and water-resistance, Treblab Z2 Ultra Premium Over-Ear Wireless Headphones may be the best over-ear headphones for working out, or anytime you desire high quality sound.

Key Features
  • Bluetooth 5.0 technology
  • Made with the gym in mind with custom-fit ear cups that stay securely in place
  • Active noise-cancellation with T-quiet technology
  • Crisp, clear Qualcomm HD sound
Specifications
  • Compatible With: All Bluetooth-enabled devices
  • Brand: Treblab
Pros
  • 35 hours of active battery life
  • Water-resistant and sweat-proof
  • 100-degree swiveling ear cups
  • Siri and Google Assistant voice support for hands-free voice commands
Cons
  • Uses white noise effect and volume boost to enhance noise cancellation
  • Source-switching method requires shut down
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Treblab Z2 Ultra Premium Over-Ear Wireless Headphones

One of the best over-ear headphones that are specifically designed with women in mind are the OneOdio over-ear headphones. These wired headphones look as great as they sound, with very high-quality plush foam earmuffs that gently cup your ears to block out ambient sound for noise isolation without adding pressure. The headband is stretchable and adjustable so you can find just the right angle. The ear cups also rotate left and right so you can easily adjust to single-ear monitoring. These are good quality headphones that deliver surprising sound quality and comfort. The ear cups are designed for women, and may have trouble fitting larger ears.

Sound quality is not an afterthought with these headphones. You can enjoy clear, crisp vocals, crystal high tones, and deep, powerful base. Large 50mm drivers with neodymium magnets transfer high quality stereo audio for a near perfect hi-fi sound that’s a pleasant surprise in this price range.

While the plastic build of these headphones could stand a little upgrading so they feel a little sturdier, they seem to hold up well, despite the slightly flimsy feel. They are flat folding for easy storage and transporting, making them one of the best over-ear headphones for portability.

OneOdio over-ear headphones for women have a 9.8 foot DJ-style cord that offers more freedom of movement away from or around your device. It is fully compatible with iPad, iPod, iPhone, Android, and many more audio devices. 

This is an adapter-free headphone set with a detachable cable with 3.5 mm and 6.35mm plugs on each end. Shareport technology means you can connect several headphones to one device without requiring a splitter.

While these are pictured in beautiful pearly rose pink, they also come in grey with gold accents, black and red, and brown and silver combos if pink is not your look.

Key Features
  • Clear sound and good base with large, 50mm speaker drivers
  • High-quality foam padded earmuffs
  • Rose pink color
  • Swiveling earmuffs for single ear listening
  • Shareport feature for connecting multiple headphones to one device without splitters
Specifications
  • Compatible With: iPad, iPod, iPhone, Android and more
  • Brand: OneOdio
Pros
  • Lengthy 9.8 foot cord
  • Comfortable, adjustable headband and extremely comfortable earpads
  • Flat-folding design for portability
Cons
  • Slightly flimsy feel
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OneOdio Over-Ear Headphones for Women and Girls

If you’ve always wanted a single pair of headphones that can used for multiple purposes, such as in the office, while traveling, or in a place where you need to hear ambient sounds such as traffic, TaoTronics Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones may be the best over-the-ear headphones for you. With the touch of a button, you can switch from travel mode with highest quality noise-cancellation technology, to ambient mode in order to hear important traffic sounds or other sounds in the world around you. Office mode allows you to hear surrounding conversation with some noise cancellation to aid in concentration. With on-ear buttons, you can quickly customize your sound.

TaoTronics Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones deliver high quality hi-fi audio through 40mm drivers with Qualcomm technology for a full sound range from clearest vocals to richest bass. You can enjoy any listening experience from complex music to your latest binge-watch and expect great sound quality. These headphones also have an integrated cVc 8.0 noise-cancelling microphone so you can take calls without missing a beat.

TaoTronics headphones are also designed for plush comfort for long hours of wear. The rotatable ear cups are constructed of protein memory foam to cradle any ear shape and seal out sound without adding pressure. The headband is adjustable for an individualized fit. They are also foldable and come with a handy carrying case.

TaoTronics Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones offer up to 30 hours of battery life during active use and ultra-fast charging with only 45 minutes for a full charge, or 5 minutes for an extra 2 hours of use, making them the best over-ear headphones for travel.

Key Features
  • Switch modes with a button from noise cancellation to allow ambient sound
  • Bluetooth 5.0 technology for most secure connection
  • Hi-Fi audio with immersive sound technology
  • Protein foam ear cups for enhanced comfort
Specifications
  • Compatible With: All Bluetooth-enabled devices
  • Brand: TaoTronics
Pros
  • Super-fast charging with 45 minutes for full charge, or 5 minutes for two hours listening time
  • Three modes: Travel, Office, and Ambient
  • Includes 3.5mm cable for wired use
Cons
  • All modes and options have to be cycled through four buttons which can be confusing
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TaoTronics Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

A great pair of headphones should offer both comfortable wear and high-quality sound. One of the best over-ear headphones for these qualities, as well as for superior portability, are the MPow 059 Bluetooth over-ear headphones. These headphones are designed to be foldable and come with a drawstring bag for easy transportability. They are also built with comfort in mind, with a stainless steel slider and padded headband that’s adjustable for an individualized fit. The earmuffs are comfortably padded with memory-protein ear cushions which are made to feel close to skin texture to ensure greater comfort even with hours of wear.

MPow 059 Bluetooth over-ear headphones offer stereo high-fidelity sound with 40mm neodymium drivers in the more affordable CSR chip technology. While the sound quality isn’t quite up to the standards of the more expensive brands, it’s got a decent range, and fair sound quality that is great for binge-watching, gaming, and music, though true audiophiles have noted a lack of high-quality base, which could stand some upgrading.

MPow 059 also offers hands-free calls and a built-in microphone for convenience. The microphone works in wireless mode only. Wireless connection is secure for up to 33 feet from the source, giving users greater freedom of movement.

These are one of the best over-ear headphones for extended battery life with active battery use for up to 20 hours. For further convenience, a quick ten minute charge will allow an extra two hours of use when you don’t have time for a full charge. Of course, these headphones can also be used with a wired connection, so you need never be without sound.

While the sound quality might not be perfect for those with a discerning ear, these are one of the best over-ear headphones in their price range for comfort, freedom of movement, and portability.

Key Features
  • 40mm neodymium drivers for Hi-fidelity sound
  • Passive noise isolating technology
  • Memory protein earmuffs to simulate skin texture for enhanced comfort
  • Built-in hands free microphone
  • Bluetooth 4.1 technology with universal compatibility
Specifications
  • Compatible With: Universal compatibility
  • Brand: Mpow
Pros
  • 20 hours active battery power
  • Flexible, foldable design for easy transport
  • Comes with draw-string bag
  • Quick ten minute charge gives two hours of play if you don't have time for full charge
Cons
  • Sound leakage can be heard by bystanders
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Mpow 059 Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones

If you love bass-heavy music genres, Anker SoundCore Life Q20 Hybrid Noise Cancelling Headphones might be the best Over-Ear headphones to do justice to your favorite playlist. You can experience 100 percent stronger bass with SoundCore’s bass-up technology and amp up your bass by simply double-pressing the play button for an amplified bass experience. With Hi-Res audio certified sound from oversized 40mm dynamic drivers, your music will be heard the way it was intended to with rich, smooth bass and crystal clarity. Amp up the bass for a completely immersive sound experience you will feel in your bones.

Anker SoundCore Life Q20 Hybrid Noise Cancelling Headphones feature Life Q20 ambient noise cancellation technology to reduce background noise by up to 90 percent. The active noise-cancelling detection filters out low and mid-frequency noises, such as airplane engines and other travel sounds for a more complete sound immersion and less distraction.

With 40 hours of active play-time battery life, these are among the best headphones for long usage away from power sources, making them excellent for travel on long-haul flights, or to keep in a gym bag, or to take anywhere. One of the best features is the fast charging, with only 5 minutes of charging able to buy you an extra 4 hours of listening.

Anker SoundCore Live Q20 Hybrid Noise Cancelling Headphones offer exceptional comfort with memory foam ear cups that mold to any ear shape to seal out sound and cradle the ears. Rotating ear cup joints mean you can adjust the angle to fit any head-shape. 

These are definitely one of best over-ear headphones in this price range, with sound that easily compares to that of much more expensive brands, and the ability to boost up the base is a definite plus!

Key Features
  • Over-sized 40mm dynamic sound drivers
  • Frequencies up to 40 kHz for crystal clear detailed sound quality
  • Digital active noise-cancellation
  • Exclusive bass technology to analyze low frequencies to strengthen bass output
  • Plush, memory-foam earmuffs
Specifications
  • Compatible With: Smartphones, tablets, laptops, Android and iOS
  • Brand: SoundCore
Pros
  • Hi-Res audio certified as having exceptional sound quality
  • Bass-rich music can be amplified with a double press of the play button
  • Extra-long battery life of up to 40 active hours and a five minute charge for three more hours
Cons
  • On-ear button controls are difficult to distinguish while wearing
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Anker Soundcore Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

One of the best over-ear headphones for superior noise cancelling technology is iTeknic Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones. These super comfortable headphones with upgraded soft protein-foam earpads, not only fit to every individual ear shape to block out ambient sound, they also use hybrid technology to combine feedforward and feedback techniques to effectively cancel background noise against the widest possible range of frequencies. The result is a reduction of up to 96 percent of low frequency sound for pure HD audio with zero background distraction. You will be able to focus on your music, work, program, or game in any noisy environment. The earpads are also rotational by 90 degrees to match the angle of any head-shape.

These headphones also offer surprisingly great sound quality for this price range, with HD audio with rich, deep bass and crystal-clear vocals. Wide aperture 45mm drivers deliver crisp and powerful sound with low latency and high fault tolerance, making these headphones among the best over-ear headphones for sound quality in the mid-price range.

The iTeknic Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones come with integrated microphone and Bluetooth 5.0 for convenient, hands-free call acceptance. Secure connections with all Bluetooth-enabled devices is fast and easy. The battery life makes these headphones perfect for travel with up to 30 hours of battery life with a full charge—which only requires 45 minutes.

The super noise cancellation quality of these headphones require a snug fit, so some users have noted feeling some pressure with long-term wear, and iTeknic has recommended taking a break after every 2 to 3 hours of use to relax your ears. Still, the high sound quality, and extreme noise cancellation are worth it for many users, and these are definitely among the best over-ear headphones available today in the mid price range.

Key Features
  • Broad frequency range noise cancellation
  • 45mm large aperture drivers for high-quality sound
  • Built-in microphone
  • Bluetooth 5.0 technology
  • Comfortable foam earpads
Specifications
  • Compatible With: All Bluetooth compatible devices
  • Brand: iTeknic
Pros
  • Deep, smooth quality bass
  • 45 minutes to full battery charge and 30 hours battery life
  • Fast, stable connection
Cons
  • Headphones make a white-noise hissing sound between signals
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iTeknic Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

One of the best over-ear headphones to choose for traveling are Mixcder E9 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones with 30 hours of active-use battery life, 3.5mm auxiliary line, and airplane-friendly adapter. These headphones feature “hear less, to hear more” technology with enhanced noise-cancellation and CSR Bluetooth chip for ideal signal-to-noise ratio for optimal sound quality. With dual large aperture 40mm drivers and 95dB, the sound is perfectly balanced with smooth midbass and crisp treble. Vocals are crystal clear. When used for gaming, you won’t miss even the stealthiest of villains sneaking up behind you.

The noise-cancelling technology included in Mixcder E9 effectively filters out low frequency sound up to 94 percent for a difference you won’t miss when you are in noisy areas such as during plane, train, or bus travel. Perfect for music, games, or a good binge-watching session.

The Mixcder E9 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones have an integrated wireless mic for hands-free call answering. They feature on-ear buttons to accept or end calls, change tracks, mute, adjust volume and turn off noise cancellation at times when you need to hear surrounding sounds for safety or other reasons.

Mixcder E9 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones are lightweight, and come with an adjustable slider headband, and rotating earmuffs for the perfect fit for any head size or shape. The earpads are soft, conforming memory foam for a snug, individualized fit that’s both sound-sealing and comfortable.

These are the best over-ear headphones for traveling. They are foldable and come with a handy travel case as well as airplane adapter. They have a somewhat bulky design to fit the large aperture drivers, but are lightweight and relatively pressure-free.

Key Features
  • Noise cancellation of up to 94 percent
  • Audio keeps top-notch quality even with noise cancellation on
  • Dual large aperture 40mm drivers and 95bB for perfectly balanced sound
Specifications
  • Compatible With: iPhone, iPad, iPod, all iOS and Android devices
  • Brand: Mixcder
Pros
  • Ultra-plush memory foam earmuffs
  • 30-hour battery life
  • Lightweight design
  • Foldable design, carrying case, and airplane adapter
Cons
  • Bulky design
  • Sound quality is better in wired mode than wireless
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Mixcder E9 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

If you are looking for a great pair of versatile headphones for school, office, or home use, ONANOFF Fokus Premium Concentration Headphones are probably the best over-ear headphones for you. These award-winning headphones offer users two mode choices, including Fokus mode for enhanced spoken audio clarity so you never miss a word of a podcast, audio book, or other spoken material, and music mode for high-quality audio and music enjoyment.

With OGANOFF Fokus Premium Concentration Headphones listening to music is a treat, with the full sound range including crisp vocals, clear treble and rich bass. Then, when it’s time for work or to listen to a podcast or audio book, a quick mode switch allows crisp, enhanced audio so you won’t miss a single word. In fokus mode, distracting background noise is effectively filtered out so you aren’t distracted and can maintain better focus. This is a plus for studying or working, but is also great for listening to your favorite podcast.

ONANOFF Fokus Premium Concentration Headphones also feature a built-in microphone so you can quickly take a call, passive noise cancellation for better concentration, and track control feature. 

These headphones are made to be durable and comfortable. The ear cups are soft and fabric-covered. They are easily removable and washable so they are always fresh and hygienic. The adjustable headband is also lightly padded so you will be comfortable even during extended wear.

ONANOFF Fokus Premium Concentration Headphones have an inline remote with call acceptance option. They are wired, with no wireless option, but they are definitely the best over-ear headphones for those who like to work—and play!

Key Features
  • Dual modes: one with full bass sound and vivid audio, and one for spoken audio
  • Excellent for school or work to switch between work and recreation
  • Podcasts and audio books will be crisp and clear
  • Includes integrated microphone
Specifications
  • Compatible With: iOS devices, tablets, smartphones, PC, Computers, Android
  • Brand: ONANOFF
Pros
  • Enhanced vocal sound quality so you will never miss a word
  • Ear cushions are removable and washable
  • Features call and track control
Cons
  • Auxiliary cord is a little short
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ONANOFF Fokus Premium Concentration Over-Ear Headphones

If you hate audio lag, then Avantree AS9PA aptX Low Latency Bluetooth 5.0 Over-Ear Headphones may be the best over-ear headphones for you. With APT low latency technology, the typical annoying audio/visual lag which occurs when watching video with wireless headphones is so minute that it’s undetectable. Your sound and visuals will be perfectly synchronized for enhanced enjoyment.

These headphones feature Bluetooth 5.0 technology combined with 40mm high-precision drivers for optimal Hi-Fi sound quality with Qualcomm aptX. Your sound will be crisp and clear with rich, smooth base and crystal clear vocals. A base-boosting feature is added for enhanced bass for those who favor bass-heavy music genres.

Avantree technology delivers the best sound quality available for music, television, gaming, or making calls. An integrated microphone is included, but control buttons and microphone only work in wireless mode.

The battery offers up to 18 hours of wireless play time, and can be switched to wired connection with an included 3.5mm cable. The earpads are plushly padded with ultra-soft protein foam to prevent pressure point irritation.

Avantree AS9PA aptX Low Latency Bluetooth 5.0 Over-Ear Headphones come with a high-quality protective carrying case with zippered closure. They are foldable for easy storage and portability.

These are one of the best over-ear headphones in the mid-price range option for sound quality. The battery life could stand to be upgraded, but these are still highly recommended for both sound quality and sound-lag prevention.

Key Features
  • Bluetooth 5.0 technology
  • Superior Hi-Fi audio
  • Low Latency technology to prevent audio lag
  • Adjustable, foldable headband
Specifications
  • Compatible With: iOS, Android, PC, Tablet
  • Brand: Avantree
Pros
  • Super-soft protein earpads
  • 3.5 mm cable included for wired use
  • Zippered travel case
  • Bass-boosting function included
Cons
  • When battery is at 30 percent, a persistent low battery level beep interrupts audio
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Avantree AS9A Low Latency Bluetooth 5.0 Over-Ear Headphones

One of the best over-ear headphones for comfort over longer sessions are the Cowin E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones. These come with professional-level active noise cancelling technology which works in either wired or wireless mode. All distracting background noise is effectively filtered out, including air travel noise, traffic, busy office sounds, or gym noise. Your focus and enjoyment will be greatly enhanced while listening to music, streaming videos or your favorite binge-watch, or while working, listening to audio books or gaming.

These headphones come with premium sound quality thanks to the large 40mm drivers which deliver especially deep, smooth bass response for a more fully immersive sound experience. Rated best in class for sound quality and world class acoustics, these over ear headphones deliver surprisingly serious sound, while they block out ambient noise. You can also feel secure in your stable connection with easy NFC pairing, assisted by voice prompts.

The Cowin E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones have easy-to-use on ear touch controls for muting, volume, and accepting hands-free calls with the built-in microphone. You can enjoy your sound for longer periods of time without the worry of wires, thanks to 30 hours of active use battery life and fast recharging.

Best of all, these are the best over-ear headphones for comfort, with professional-grade protein earpads with skin texture covers and plush foam padding. They have a 90-degree swiveling system to fit any head comfortably, and are surprisingly lightweight so they can be worn for hours without discomfort. These are a great pair of headphones in the mid price range!

Key Features
  • Professional-grade noise cancelling technology in wired or wireless modes
  • Built-in microphone with NFC smart wireless technology
  • Protein plush earpads in skin texture for comfort
  • Up to 30 hours active use battery life
  • Easy on-ear controls to switch between tracks and adjust volume
Specifications
  • Compatible With: All Bluetooth-enabled devices
  • Brand: Cowin
Pros
  • Comes with storage pouch
  • Available in six colors
  • Deep bass response
Cons
  • Microphone needs upgrading
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COWIN E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

Nobody can deny that Bose is a pro when it comes to handling audio products, and it proves itself again with the aptly-named Noise Cancelling Heapdhones 700. Equipped with the state-of-the-art audio technology and audio quality that Bose is known for, it quite handily makes for one of the finest pairs of over-ear headphones on the market.

Marked at a premium price, the Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 from Bose does it all. Providing effective noise cancelation technology alongside a microphone that picks up your voice crystal clear, each of its functions outdoes the next, making it more than just your standard over-ear headphones.

The headphone design is nothing special. However, it fits quite comfortably, and further, it fits comfortably over a variety of head sizes. Often, those with head sizes on either side of the spectrum struggle to find the perfect pair of headphones. But Bose comes very close to satisfying the full spectrum.

All the way around, the Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are excellent. With a simple but effective design, functions that are superior to those of most competing over-ear headphones, and headphone quality that remains unmatched in the market of over-ear headphones

Key Features
  • Includes noise cancelation technology
  • Has a microphone
  • Sweat resistant
  • Uses Bluetooth 5.0
Pros
  • Comfortable
  • Great sound quality
  • Very durable
  • Simple aesthetic
Cons
  • Battery life goes by fast
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Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700

There is nothing more completely immersive than listening to music, watching your favorite “I’ll be up all night binging” show or exploring your new open-world video game environment with the best over-ear headphones. These headphones, especially those featuring noise cancellation technology, can enhance any audio experience. When sound is perfectly balanced between two large, powerful drivers hidden beneath the ear cups that cradle your ears and seal out background noise, you are more effectively enveloped by a world of sound.

The best over-ear headphones can be a welcome escape from the real world, or they can center your focus more completely on your work by blocking out distractions. They can travel with you and turn a long-haul flight into the perfect excuse to lose yourself for a while in another world before you land back down to earth.

Here are the qualities to look for in the best over-ear headphones so you can get the most out of your favorite sounds.

Superior Sound Quality

Heritage-HP-3 Headphones

With the best over-ear headphones, sound quality should never be an afterthought. If a pair of headphones has the latest in Bluetooth technology, voice command options and automatic app updating, that’s really cool. However, if they don’t have high-quality sound, they aren’t worth what you are going to pay for them.

The best over-ear headphones will have sound drivers of at least 40mm. Some other features to look for are Hi-Fi sound quality, large aperture drivers, precision-sound drivers, and Qualcomm technology. Your sound should deliver rich, deep bass, clear treble and crystalline vocals. If your playlist is full of bass-heavy music genres, you may want to look for the best over-ear headphones offering bass-boosting options. If you are looking for headphones to use for studying, audiobooks, or podcasts, look for headphones that support voice clarity in the spoken word so you never have to miss a thing.

Noise Cancellation Technology

Bose NC Headphones

Unless you only plan to use your headphones in your own quiet bedroom (hey, no judgement here) you should look for the best over-ear headphones offering noise cancellation technology so you can enjoy your sound without distracting background noise. This is especially helpful during travel, at the gym, or in any noisy environment. This technology may be even more important if you plan to use your headphones for work or for studying and you need to block out noise that interrupts your concentration.

You will enjoy a much more immersive sound experience if background noise is minimized. You can also look for headphones that offer a button to quickly switch off the noise cancellation if you need to hear surrounding sounds, such as your boss speaking to you, or traffic.

Comfort, Fit, Battery Life And Other Features

Best noise cancelling headphones

A set of over-ear headphones won’t give you an enjoyable sound experience if they hurt your head or exert too much pressure. It’s important to look for the best over-ear headphones offering a lightweight, ergonomic design, plush, memory foam or protein foam earpads, rotating ear cups, and an adjustable headband. All of these features allow you to get the most comfortable fit so you can enjoy hours of sound without getting a headache or feeling uncomfortable.

Battery life is another important feature in the best over-ear headphones. Most wireless options will offer 20 to 40 hours of battery life, and many offer a quick-charge feature such as a five-minute charge which will give the user another two to four hours of use when time is low.

Other options may depend on how you plan to use your headphones. There are those designed with travel-friendly features, those expressly for the gym with sweat and water-resistance, and those to help fine-tune your focus when listening to podcasts, audiobooks, or other spoken media. No matter what you are looking for, with a quick glance at the special features of each choice you are sure to find the best over-ear headphones for your needs.

FAQ

Q: What are some leading brands in the headphones market?

There are plenty of competing brands in the market for headphones. However, few are as competitive as Sony, Bose, COWIN, Anker, and more. These have proven time and again to be very durable and lasting brands.

Q: Is water resistance important?

Condensation very naturally occurs through the use of headphones. This is especially true for those who sweat. As such, having a waterproof pair of headphones is crucial for those not wanting to look for replacements very frequently.

Q: How much can I expect to pay for headphones?

Much like other forms of technology, the price of headphones varies drastically. Some of the more budget-friendly brands may charge as low as $20-$40 for their headphones, while other premium brands will list their headphones at upwards of $300.

Q: Are over-ear headphones better than on-ear headphones?

The question of better is sort of irrelevant, seeing as everyone has their preferences as far as audio experiences go. However, it is important to note that those who value sound quality, noise cancelation, and a more secure fit, over-ear headphones will be a better purchase, by and large.

Q: Do over-ear headphones cause earwax build-up?

Like other audio devices, over-ear headphones can indeed cause earwax build-up. This can be annoying and can cause temporary loss of hearing.