Over-ear headphones offer significant advantages over wireless earbuds. They deliver superior sound, have longer battery life, and typically feature stronger active noise cancellation (ANC). Although Apple AirPods may be convenient for commute, over-ear headphones are ideal for weekend trips or enjoying media at home.
Our Top Picks
We’ve reviewed various headphones over the years, including wireless earbuds, workout headphones, and open-ear headphones. With insights from the NBC Select team, we’ve identified the best over-ear headphones available.
Best Overall
The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones, available in black, blue, and white, excel in almost every aspect. They feature exceptional sound quality, powerful ANC, intuitive touch controls, and long battery life. The bass-forward sound profile enhances rumbling guitar and sweeping vocals without overshadowing mid or high-range instrumentation. With improved comfort, the wider headband is more adjustable than previous models. Unlike earlier versions, the XM6 folds compactly, making storing them more convenient.
Best Budget
The Soundcore Life Q30 offers a stylish design at an affordable price below $100. Despite minor flimsy control buttons, these headphones integrate ANC, transparency mode, folding design, and boast impressive 60-hour battery life with ANC off. Although lacking some detailed clarity for instrumental music, they remain a solid budget-friendly option.
Best for Noise Canceling
Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra headphones provide outstanding noise-canceling performance. This headset allows focus in noisy environments with a more neutral sound profile compared to the Sony WH-1000XM6. Durable metal components ensure longevity, and although controls could improve, this headset remains a worthy option.
Best from Apple
Apple AirPods Max 2 are praised for their comfort and ample padding, despite being heavier than other top picks. Featuring excellent ANC and transparency mode, they include advanced software features such as live translation and call voice isolation. However, they work optimally with Apple products only and have limited battery life for travel.
Best for Travel
Bose QuietComfort headphones offer excellent ANC, lightweight design, and durable build. Perfect for long flights, they provide comfortable listening experiences. These headphones consistently deliver on key features needed for travel.
Best Design
Sonos Ace headphones excel in on-ear controls, with dedicated buttons for power and ANC, and a sliding media button for comprehensive control. They produce balanced audio and provide superior comfort with outstanding padding. Features such as audio transfer from a Sonos soundbar enhance their value.
Best for Bass
Sony Ult Wear headphones present an economical choice with sound emphasizing deep bass. Similar in design to Sony’s flagship models, these headphones include handy touch controls and a specialized ‘Ult’ button for bass adjustment.
Guide to Over-Ear Headphones
NBC Select leverages feedback from users and extensive testing to recommend headphones based on comfort, ease of use, battery life, and noise cancellation capabilities.
Over-ear headphones naturally isolate noise by enclosing your ear, enhancing audio quality and ANC efficiency. Here are tips for maximizing their use:
- Use Different Noise Cancellation Modes: Utilize active noise cancellation and transparency modes according to your environment to optimize listening experience.
- Download the Headphone’s App: Companion apps provide useful settings and updates while offering immersive listening options.
- Take Breaks: Wear headphones intermittently to prevent tension headaches and manage posture effectively.
Expert guidance from professionals like Dr. Allen Conrad, along with extensive evaluation and user feedback, ensures reliable recommendations.
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