15 Headphones Benefits Everybody Must Be Able To
Best Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones completely encapsulate your ears and allow you to fully immerse in sound. They are typically made for audiophiles, and feature features like active noise cancellation and control applications.
The Focal Bathys are a wireless pair with ANC and a mobile application to adjust the EQ and presets. They also support high-res audio through USB-C for wired listening.
Sony WH-1000XM5
The WH-1000XM5 headphones are Sony's latest upgrade to their best-in-class noise cancellation line-up. The headphones have a new design and enhanced ANC. They also have many of the same features, but with a higher-end sound quality and better materials.
They're lightweight for over-ear ANC headphones, with 250g. They are very comfortable to wear, even when you're listening to or reading a book. The headband has a friction-rod design that is similar to the Grado Labs SR60x, which will keep your ears from becoming too cold.
The WH-1000XM5 has a sound signature designed to please people who listen to music for pleasure as well as serious audiophiles. It is tuned with a slight increase in bass, yet it's not abrasive or imposing. They have a large and wide soundstage, with excellent instrument separation that allows you to hear the details in your music. The earcups feature touch controls that are simple and responsive. Swipe up or down to alter headphones shop . You can also swipe forward to listen to the next track, backwards to hear the previous track. The headphones are capable of connecting to two devices at the same time and due to an inbuilt sensor, they automatically pause the playback if removed from your head. You can also switch on ambient mode by placing your palm on the right ear cup that lets you be aware of what's happening around you, without taking off the headphones.
Other helpful features include the ability to pair them with your voice assistant, Bluetooth low-energy, and support for hi-res audio (via LDAC). They come with a durable carrying case made from premium fabric and a USB-C cable for charging. The headphones are compatible with most Android and iOS smartphones and computers running Windows and macOS. The WH-1000XM5's life expectancy is superb. In our battery test we had 31 hours and 53 minute with the ANC on, which was better than Sony's advertised 30 hours battery life.
The WH1000XM5 comes with a fantastic mic for voice calls. There is no muffled or static sound in the background. The noise-canceling performance is also top-notch and they're a perfect fit for public transport or the office.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 offers a significant upgrade over its predecessor. It has a host of new features and performance. The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 comes with premium performance and features, including 24bit wireless streaming with active noise cancellation that is optimized, and clear voice calls on any compatible mobile device or tablet. The 40mm drivers, that are custom-designed and angled to fit in each earcup, offer more immersive and focused listening experience. Six strategically placed microphones ensure superior call clarity even in noisy environments. A built-in remote and microphone allows you to control music and calls from any device that is compatible.
Like the original PX7, these headphones are a sleekly refined look, with accent rings around each earcup, and a silver-colored headband. The memory foam earcups fit well but not too tight on the cranium. The new form and shape was developed over the course of several months and provides a soft clamping pressure that isn't too hard on my skull, which is a rotund one.
They're 2 ounces lighter (or 307g) and are a little smaller than the Sony WH1000XM5. They're light enough to carry in your backpack or bag without much discomfort, and they'll stay comfortably in place for long listens. The headband can be folded using a sturdy hinge at the back.
They're powered by Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX Adaptive support which is ideal for high-resolution audio as well as precise video sync. The 3.5mm cord connects to the USB-C port on the right earcup. The status indicator on the earphone is a nice touch. It flashes green to indicate rapid charging, and solid blue to indicate Bluetooth pairing.
The B&W App has the same features that the buttons on the hardware provide - bass and treble adjustments actions button assignments, wear detection, cycling through ANC modes, etc. The app also displays an album cover and track title when you play music on your iPhone. Popular extras such as music presets and a soundscapes mode aren't available, however.
Sennheiser HD 800 S
The HD 800 S is a successor to the iconic Sennheiser headphones, and is made to meet the highest expectations. Its technical construction was optimized to achieve an incredible detail resolution that encompasses the entire frequency spectrum, dynamic range, and stereo panorama. It delivers the most realistic spatial audio you'll experience on open-back headphones.
The headphone is 300 ohms in impedance, so a good headphone amplifier will be needed to drive it at desired levels without distortion. A balanced connection is recommended because it will increase the output power and improve the overall sound quality.
The headphones are designed for professional use and feature a sturdy metal frame, with a mixture of leather and plastic. The design is minimalist and doesn't look like a fancy pair of headphones, but they feel premium in the hands and are well-built. They come with a carrying case, an extra audio cable and a 1/4" to 1-/8" adapter.
The HD 800 S has a neutral sound that reproduces instruments and vocals with naturality, however they are light on bass. The open-back design creates a spacious out-of-head soundstage. The treble is excellent, with minor peaks and drops. The treble region is also extremely linear, which means you won't have issues with hitting sibilants or the upper impact of the snare drum.
They can still deliver impact, dynamism and impact in the event of need, despite the absence of a powerful low-end. They'll still be a great choice for those who enjoy listening to music with powerful basslines, but they might not be like some of the models on this list, such as the HiFiMan Arya.
In the mids they are Sennheiser headphones are difficult to beat. They are a linear pair with a slight scoop on the upper mids, which shouldn't be noticed by the majority of listeners. They also have the ability to reproduce precise time gradations of vocals which is a huge plus.
The HD 800 S is a pair of exceptional headphones that are ideal for professionals and audiophiles. Their impressive sonic performance and comfortable fit make them an excellent choice. They're costly, but you're paying for headphones that will last for many years to be used and perform well in any situation.
Anker Soundcore Life Q20
The Anker Soundcore Life Q20 are a decent pair of headphones that will provide the perfect solution for anyone looking to relax or simply needs a cheap set of noise cancelling headphones. They come with a basic pouch that will give them some protection when you toss them in a bag and their battery can last for many long-haul flights. The ANC can effectively block out noisy seatmates and engine rumbles. However, their audio profile is a bit heavy and warm.
The Life Q20's controls are easy to navigate and well-marked. On the left earcup, you'll find buttons to power up and pair the headphones, as well as to turn off or on active noise cancellation. On the right ear cup, you'll find controls for playback of media which include a multi-function button that lets you activate the voice assistant on your phone and turn on the Anker's BassUp feature (more on that later). You can also utilize the built-in microphone in order to make hands-free calls with your phone.
Anker's Soundcore Life Q20 headphones offers a deep immersive listening experience thanks to its custom 40 mm dynamic driver that offers certified Hi-Res audio. The headphones have the treble range to go up to 40 kHz. Their hybrid active noise cancelling technology is designed to block out a wide range of mid- and low-frequency sound.
Anker Soundcore Q20 does not support aptX. This is a disappointment. This means that you will not be able to benefit of the better codes' lower latency while gaming on your computer.
In terms of comfort In terms of comfort, the Life Q20's memory-foam ear cups and headband are comfortable enough to wear for extended periods of time without creating discomfort. The ear cups can also rotate to adapt to the shape of your head. You can also listen to your music with a 3.5mm cable and a microUSB connector is provided for charging the battery.