Top 10 Best Over Ear Headphones of 2024

Over ear headphones have become increasingly popular in recent years, and their popularity shows no signs of slowing down in 2024. This rise in popularity can be attributed to several factors, including advancements in technology that have made over ear headphones more accessible and affordable.

In the past, over ear headphones were often seen as a luxury item, reserved for audiophiles and professionals in the music industry. However, with the advent of new technologies and manufacturing processes, over ear headphones have become more affordable for the average consumer. This has allowed more people to experience the superior sound quality and immersive listening experience that over ear headphones provide.

Additionally, advancements in wireless technology have made over ear headphones more convenient and user-friendly. With the ability to connect wirelessly to devices such as smartphones and tablets, users can enjoy their favorite music or podcasts without the hassle of tangled cords. This wireless functionality has also made over ear headphones a popular choice for on-the-go listening.

Key Takeaways

• Over ear headphones are becoming increasingly popular in 2024.
• The top 10 best over ear headphones for audiophiles are worth considering.
• Comfortable over ear headphones are available for extended listening sessions.
• Wireless over ear headphones are great for on-the-go listening.
• Affordable over ear headphones can still provide high-quality sound.

Top 10 Best Over Ear Headphones for Audiophiles

For audiophiles who prioritize sound quality above all else, there are several over ear headphones on the market that deliver exceptional audio performance. Here are the top 10 best over ear headphones for audiophiles:

1. Sennheiser HD 800 S: Known for its incredibly detailed sound reproduction and wide soundstage, the Sennheiser HD 800 S is a favorite among audiophiles. Its open-back design allows for a natural and spacious sound, while its comfortable fit ensures long listening sessions.

2. Audeze LCD-4: The Audeze LCD-4 is renowned for its planar magnetic drivers, which deliver unparalleled clarity and accuracy. With its luxurious design and premium materials, this headphone is a true statement piece for any audiophile.

3. Focal Utopia: The Focal Utopia is often regarded as one of the best headphones in the world. Its beryllium drivers produce a rich and detailed sound, while its lightweight design ensures maximum comfort.

4. Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro: The Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro offers a balanced and accurate sound signature, making it a popular choice among audio professionals. Its open-back design provides a wide soundstage, while its replaceable ear pads allow for customization.

5. Audio-Technica ATH-M50x: The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is a more affordable option that still delivers excellent sound quality. With its closed-back design and robust construction, this headphone is perfect for both studio use and everyday listening.

6. Sony WH-1000XM4: The Sony WH-1000XM4 is a wireless over ear headphone that combines excellent sound quality with advanced noise-cancelling technology. Its long battery life and comfortable fit make it ideal for on-the-go listening.

7. Bose QuietComfort 35 II: The Bose QuietComfort 35 II is another wireless headphone with exceptional noise-cancelling capabilities. Its balanced sound signature and comfortable design make it a popular choice among travelers and commuters.

8. Grado SR325e: The Grado SR325e is a classic open-back headphone that delivers a lively and engaging sound. Its retro design and handmade construction add to its appeal for audiophiles seeking a unique listening experience.

9. Meze Empyrean: The Meze Empyrean is known for its luxurious design and exceptional sound quality. With its planar magnetic drivers and comfortable fit, this headphone offers a truly immersive listening experience.

10. AKG K712 Pro: The AKG K712 Pro is a reference-class headphone that provides a neutral and accurate sound reproduction. Its open-back design allows for an expansive soundstage, while its lightweight construction ensures comfort during long listening sessions.

The Most Comfortable Over Ear Headphones for Extended Listening Sessions

Comfort is a crucial factor to consider when choosing over ear headphones, especially for those who enjoy extended listening sessions. Here are the most comfortable over ear headphones that prioritize comfort without compromising on sound quality:

1. Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro: The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro features velour ear pads and a lightweight design, making it incredibly comfortable for long listening sessions. Its open-back design also allows for breathability, reducing heat and discomfort.

2. Sennheiser HD 660 S: The Sennheiser HD 660 S is known for its plush ear pads and adjustable headband, ensuring a comfortable fit for all head sizes. Its lightweight construction makes it ideal for extended use.

3. Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X: The Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X has a self-adjusting wing support system that provides a secure and comfortable fit. Its open-back design also allows for breathability, preventing discomfort during long listening sessions.

4. Philips Fidelio X2HR: The Philips Fidelio X2HR features memory foam ear pads that conform to the shape of the user’s ears, providing a comfortable and personalized fit. Its lightweight construction ensures comfort even during extended use.

5. AKG K240 Studio: The AKG K240 Studio has a semi-open design that combines the benefits of both open-back and closed-back headphones. Its self-adjusting headband and velour ear pads make it comfortable for long listening sessions.

6. Sony MDR-1A: The Sony MDR-1A features soft synthetic leather ear pads and an adjustable headband, ensuring a comfortable fit for extended use. Its lightweight construction also adds to its comfort factor.

7. Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro: The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro has plush velour ear pads and a padded headband, providing a comfortable fit for long listening sessions. Its closed-back design also helps to isolate external noise.

8. Audio-Technica ATH-M40x: The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x features contoured ear cups and a padded headband, ensuring a comfortable fit for extended use. Its closed-back design also helps to block out external noise.

9. Sennheiser HD 598 SR: The Sennheiser HD 598 SR has velour ear pads and a padded headband, providing a comfortable fit for long listening sessions. Its open-back design also allows for breathability, reducing discomfort.

10. Philips SHP9500: The Philips SHP9500 features breathable ear cushions and an adjustable headband, ensuring a comfortable fit for extended use. Its open-back design also allows for breathability, preventing discomfort.

Best Wireless Over Ear Headphones for On-the-Go Listening

Brand	Model	Battery Life	Wireless Range	Noise Cancellation	Price
Sony	WH-1000XM4	30 hours	30 feet	Yes	349.99
Bose	QuietComfort 35 II	20 hours	33 feet	Yes	299.00
Sennheiser	Momentum 3 Wireless	17 hours	33 feet	Yes	399.95
Jabra	Elite 85h	36 hours	33 feet	Yes	249.99
Beats	Solo Pro	22 hours	30 feet	Yes	299.95

Wireless over ear headphones have become increasingly popular for on-the-go listening due to their convenience and freedom from tangled cords. Here are the best wireless over ear headphones that provide excellent sound quality and connectivity:

1. Sony WH-1000XM4: The Sony WH-1000XM4 is widely regarded as one of the best wireless over ear headphones on the market. It features advanced noise-cancelling technology, long battery life, and support for high-resolution audio.

2. Bose QuietComfort 35 II: The Bose QuietComfort 35 II is known for its exceptional noise-cancelling capabilities, making it perfect for noisy environments. It also offers a comfortable fit and long battery life.

3. Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless: The Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless combines premium sound quality with active noise cancellation. It features a sleek design, touch controls, and support for virtual assistants.

4. Jabra Elite 85h: The Jabra Elite 85h offers excellent sound quality, long battery life, and advanced noise-cancelling technology. It also features a durable construction and customizable sound profiles.

5. Bowers & Wilkins PX7: The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 delivers high-quality sound and adaptive noise cancellation. It features a stylish design, long battery life, and support for high-resolution audio.

6. Beats Studio3 Wireless: The Beats Studio3 Wireless is known for its powerful bass and comfortable fit. It features Apple’s W1 chip for seamless connectivity with Apple devices and long battery life.

7. Microsoft Surface Headphones 2: The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 offers excellent sound quality and active noise cancellation. It features touch controls, a comfortable fit, and support for virtual assistants.

8. JBL Live 650BTNC: The JBL Live 650BTNC provides good sound quality and active noise cancellation at an affordable price. It features a lightweight design, long battery life, and support for voice assistants.

9. Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT: The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT is a wireless version of the popular ATH-M50x. It offers excellent sound quality, a comfortable fit, and long battery life.

10. Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2: The Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 delivers good sound quality and active noise cancellation at an affordable price. It features a comfortable fit, long battery life, and support for virtual assistants.

Affordable Over Ear Headphones with High-Quality Sound

Contrary to popular belief, high-quality over ear headphones don’t always have to come with a hefty price tag. There are several affordable options on the market that offer excellent sound quality without breaking the bank. Here are some affordable over ear headphones with high-quality sound:

1. Audio-Technica ATH-M40x: The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x is a popular choice among audio professionals and enthusiasts. It offers accurate sound reproduction, a comfortable fit, and a detachable cable for easy replacement.

2. Sennheiser HD 559: The Sennheiser HD 559 delivers a balanced sound signature and a wide soundstage. It features a lightweight design, comfortable fit, and replaceable ear pads.

3. Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro: The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro is known for its excellent sound isolation and accurate sound reproduction. It features a closed-back design, comfortable fit, and replaceable ear pads.

4. Philips SHP9500: The Philips SHP9500 offers a wide soundstage and detailed sound reproduction. It features breathable ear cushions, an adjustable headband, and a detachable cable.

5. AKG K240 Studio: The AKG K240 Studio is a classic studio headphone that provides accurate sound reproduction. It features a semi-open design, self-adjusting headband, and replaceable ear pads.

6. Audio-Technica ATH-M30x: The Audio-Technica ATH-M30x delivers good sound quality and a comfortable fit. It features a closed-back design, collapsible design for portability, and a detachable cable.

7. Sony MDR-7506: The Sony MDR-7506 is a popular choice among audio professionals for its accurate sound reproduction. It features a closed-back design, comfortable fit, and foldable design for portability.

8. Superlux HD668B: The Superlux HD668B offers good sound quality at an affordable price. It features a semi-open design, comfortable fit, and detachable cable.

9. Monoprice Monolith M565C: The Monoprice Monolith M565C delivers excellent sound quality and a comfortable fit. It features a closed-back design, planar magnetic drivers, and a detachable cable.

10. Koss Porta Pro: The Koss Porta Pro is a classic headphone that offers good sound quality and a unique retro design. It features a lightweight construction, adjustable headband, and collapsible design for portability.

Over Ear Headphones with Noise-Cancelling Technology

Noise-cancelling technology has become increasingly popular in over ear headphones, as it allows users to enjoy their music without the distraction of external noise. Here are some over ear headphones with noise-cancelling technology:

1. Sony WH-1000XM4: The Sony WH-1000XM4 is widely regarded as one of the best noise-cancelling headphones on the market. It features advanced noise-cancelling technology that adapts to the user’s environment, ensuring a quiet and immersive listening experience.

2. Bose QuietComfort 35 II: The Bose QuietComfort 35 II is known for its exceptional noise-cancelling capabilities. It features multiple levels of noise cancellation, allowing users to customize their listening experience.

3. Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless: The Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless combines premium sound quality with active noise cancellation. It features three modes of noise cancellation, including a transparent mode that allows users to hear their surroundings.

4. Jabra Elite 85h: The Jabra Elite 85h offers excellent sound quality and advanced noise-cancelling technology. It features SmartSound AI that automatically adjusts the level of noise cancellation based on the user’s environment.

5. Bowers & Wilkins PX7: The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 delivers high-quality sound and adaptive noise cancellation. It features six microphones that continuously monitor and adjust the level of noise cancellation.

6. Beats Studio3 Wireless: The Beats Studio3 Wireless features Pure Adaptive Noise Cancelling technology that actively blocks external noise. It also offers real-time audio calibration to preserve the clarity and range of the user’s music.

7. Microsoft Surface Headphones 2: The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 offers excellent sound quality and active noise cancellation. It features intuitive touch controls that allow users to adjust the level of noise cancellation.

8. JBL Live 650BTNC: The JBL Live 650BTNC provides good sound quality and active noise cancellation at an affordable price. It features a dedicated button that allows users to easily activate or deactivate noise cancellation.

9. Audio-Technica ATH-ANC700BT: The Audio-Technica ATH-ANC700BT combines wireless functionality with active noise cancellation. It features multiple levels of noise cancellation and a long battery life.

10. Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2: The Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 delivers good sound quality and active noise cancellation at an affordable price. It features a dedicated button that allows users to easily switch between noise-cancelling and open-listening modes.

Over Ear Headphones for Gamers: The Ultimate Gaming Experience

Over ear headphones are essential for gamers who want to fully immerse themselves in their gaming experience. Here are some over ear headphones that provide excellent sound quality, a built-in microphone, and compatibility with gaming systems:

1. SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless: The SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless is widely regarded as one of the best gaming headphones on the market. It features high-resolution audio, a comfortable fit, and a retractable microphone.

2. HyperX Cloud Alpha is a gaming headset that offers exceptional audio quality and comfort. It features dual chamber drivers that deliver clear and immersive sound, allowing gamers to fully immerse themselves in their favorite games. The headset also has a durable aluminum frame and adjustable headband, ensuring a comfortable fit for long gaming sessions. Additionally, the Cloud Alpha has a detachable noise-cancelling microphone, allowing for clear communication with teammates. With its superior sound and comfort, the HyperX Cloud Alpha is a top choice for gamers looking for a high-quality gaming headset.

Looking for the perfect headphones to enhance your audio experience? Look no further than our list of the Best Over Ear Headphones 2024. These top-rated headphones offer superior sound quality and comfort, making them a must-have for any music lover or audiophile. And if you’re in the mood for some festive holiday decorations, check out our related article on the Top 10 Best Santa Claus Lights Outdoor 2016. With these outdoor lights, you can bring the holiday spirit to your home and create a magical atmosphere for all to enjoy. So why wait? Upgrade your headphones and get into the holiday spirit today!

FAQs

What are over-ear headphones?

Over-ear headphones are a type of headphones that have ear cups that completely cover the ears. They are designed to provide better sound quality and noise isolation compared to other types of headphones.

What are the benefits of using over-ear headphones?

Over-ear headphones provide better sound quality, noise isolation, and comfort compared to other types of headphones. They are also more durable and have longer battery life.

What should I look for when buying over-ear headphones?

When buying over-ear headphones, you should consider the sound quality, noise isolation, comfort, durability, and battery life. You should also consider the price and brand reputation.

What are the best over-ear headphones in 2024?

The best over-ear headphones in 2024 will depend on your personal preferences and budget. However, some of the top-rated over-ear headphones in 2024 include Sony WH-1000XM4, Bose QuietComfort 35 II, Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless, and Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro.

Are over-ear headphones better than in-ear headphones?

Over-ear headphones provide better sound quality and noise isolation compared to in-ear headphones. However, in-ear headphones are more portable and convenient to use. The choice between over-ear and in-ear headphones will depend on your personal preferences and needs.

Can over-ear headphones cause hearing damage?

Over-ear headphones can cause hearing damage if used at high volumes for extended periods of time. It is important to use headphones at a safe volume level and take breaks to prevent hearing damage.