Sound quality. Comfort. Incomparable longevity. Audiophiles are a picky bunch when it comes to selecting over-ear headphones. There’s no room for mediocrity here — it’s all about creating a barrier that locks out exterior sounds and keeps the audio right where it belongs. If you prefer over-ears to in-ears, you’re already in a good place: they protect your eardrums a little bit more, and they provide that all-important combination of superior quality and, yes, even some serious style. Here are a few we’ve rounded up.
Bose Noise Cancelling Wireless Bluetooth Headphones 700 with Alexa Voice Control
When nothing but the best will do, the Bose Noise Cancelling Wireless Bluetooth Headphones 700 with Alexa Voice Control steps in and fills a huge gap. These are Powerful — yep, cap P-worthy — because they promote a combination of crisp sound and rich bass tones. The result is virtually flawless. They’re also technological powerhouses, capable of accessing Alexa or Google Assistant with ease. Don’t be fooled by their substance; they’re exceptionally lightweight and feature striking stainless steel accents for a sleek and contemporary appearance. Enjoy at least 20 hours of nonstop play on a single charge.
Apple AirPods Max
Apple once again does its thing, introducing a fresh iteration of AirPods Max headphones just in time for those who’ve been searching in vain for The Perfect Headphones. Available in multiple colorways, they’re distinctive for their ability to limit distortion and cancel exterior noises fully. You’re essentially in your own little world when you slip these on, making their comfort an added benefit. The headphones feature knit mesh canopies, along with ear cushions infused with memory foam for a hyper-comfortable feel. Each pair includes a smart case and a charging cable.
V-MODA M-200 Professional Studio Headphones
There’s a reason V-MODA M-200 Professional Studio Headphones continue to receive accolades a year after their release. Light and form-fitting, they’re designed with comfort in mind. From the adjustable headband to the boosted sweat resistance, they tick the boxes that matter the most to audiophiles. The headband is constructed of pure PU leather, while the magnetic memory foam cushions are replaceable for your convenience. Naturally, nothing matters more than sound quality, and this delivers in droves. The sound is crisp and balanced, making it an ideal choice for everything from studio work to casual listening.
Shure AONIC 50 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Most audiophiles have a laundry list of expectations. It’s not enough to simply snag any pair of noise-cancelling headphones. Shure AONIC 50 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones take things a step further, providing superior wireless performance coupled with at least 20 hours of battery life, so you can enjoy uninterrupted performance in any environment at any time. Add Bluetooth 5 technology to the mix, along with a comfortable fit thanks to a sturdy build and fold-flat construction, and they transform into downright extraordinary headphones designed to endure.
Microsoft Surface Headphones 2
Dubbed “the smarter way to listen,” Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 built on the brand’s legacy for superior product design. These are next-gen audio blasters that deliver on every front. They’re incredibly comfortable, with a lightweight feel and soft, plush-to-the-touch ear pads that feel like nothing when you slip them on. Hands-free operation makes it easy to skip tracks and answer calls in a snap. They’re compatible with a variety of digital assistants, so they’ll make life easier in more ways than one. And, naturally, they’re also designed to pair with anything in the Microsoft Surface range, from the Surface Book 3 to the Surface Pro 7. The addition of Omnisonic sound promises crisp clarity.
Sony Wireless Noise-Cancelling Over-the-Ear Headphones
Sony. Noise-cancelling. Anything else you need to hear? When you slip these Sony Wireless Noise-Cancelling Over-the-Ear Headphones, it’s pretty much a given that you actually won’t hear a thing — that’s just how effective they are at locking out exterior noises and giving you a virtually perfect listening experience from start to finish. It offers at least 30 hours of uninterrupted battery life, making it a must for the avid music junkie who can’t be bothered to stop. Who would want to stop, when these headphones also feature convenient touch controls and an elevated design that prioritizes all-day comfort?
Sennheiser MOMENTUM Wireless Noise-Cancelling Over-the-Ear Headphones
Sure, they look amazing. There’s no question that a pair of Sennheiser MOMENTUM Wireless Noise-Cancelling Over-the-Ear Headphones is downright sexy at a glance. But this isn’t just a pretty face. Slip them on and you’ll experience the type of crystal clear sound you likely only fantasize could ever be a reality. They’re Bluetooth-enabled for your convenience, and, naturally, they channel the height of sophistication thanks to their sheep leather ear pads that promote constant comfort. You’ll never want to take them off.