headphone shopping Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones surround your ears and immerse you into music. They are usually tuned for audiophiles, and include features such as active noise cancellation and control apps.
The Focal Bathys is a wireless device that comes with ANC, a mobile app 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 addition to their top-of-the-line noise cancellation line-up. The headphones feature a brand new design and have improved ANC. They also have many of the same features, but with a higher-end sound quality and superior materials.
At only 250g, they are lightweight for over-ear ANC headsets. This makes them extremely comfortable to wear for long periods of time, even when you're listening to a podcast or a book. The headband is a friction-rod design similar to the Grado Labs SR60x, which will keep your ears from becoming too cold.
With a sound quality that is able to please those who enjoy music casually and audiophiles, the WH-1000XM5's sonic signature is tuned to have a slight emphasis on bass but is not overpowering or harsh. They have a wide and open soundstage with good instrument separation, which allows you to hear the subtleties in your music. The earcups also feature control buttons that are responsive and intuitive to use. You can swipe forward to access the next track, then back to listen to the previous one, and up and down to control the volume. The headphones can connect to two devices simultaneously, and will automatically stop playback when you remove them from your head, thanks to the built-in sensor. You can also turn on ambient mode by resting your palm on the right ear cup and allowing you to listen to what's happening around you without taking off the headphones.
They can also be paired with your voice assistant. Bluetooth low-energy is also available, as is high-resolution audio (via LDAC). The headphones come with a carrying case made of premium fabric, and an USB-C charging cable. The headphones are compatible with most Android and iOS smartphones, as well as with computers operating Windows and macOS. The WH-1000XM5's battery life is awe-inspiring. In our test of the standard battery we had 31 hours and 53 minute with the ANC on which was more than Sony's advertised 30 hours battery life.
The WH1000XM5 has a great microphone that can be used 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 good option for public transport as well as the office.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 provides a significant improvement over its predecessor. It has a host of new features and performance. The Bowers & Wilkins S2 comes with premium performance and features, including 24bit wireless streaming and active noise cancellation optimized and clear voice calls on any compatible mobile device or tablet. The 40mm drivers, that are custom-designed and angled inside each earcup, offer more complete and focused listening experience. Six carefully placed microphones offer exceptional call clarity even in noisy surroundings. A built-in remote and microphone allows you to control calls and music on any device that is compatible.
These headphones have a similar sleek and refined look to the original PX7. They feature accent rings around the earcups and a silver sheen on the headband. The earcups are cushioned by memory foam and fit snugly on the cranium but they never feel tight. The redesigned shape and form took many months to perfect, providing an easy clamping force that doesn't push too hard, even on my own rotund cranium.
They weigh 2 ounces less (or 307g) and a bit thinner than the Sony WH1000XM5. The headphones are light enough to be carried in a bag or backpack and are comfortable to wear for long listening sessions. A sturdy hinge on the back of the headband allows you to fold them up to make it easy to transport them in the protective case.
The headphones are powered by Bluetooth 5.2 and the aptX Adaptive. This is ideal for high-resolution audio aswell for a tight video sync. You can also play the headphones wired, too, with the included 3.5mm cable that connects to the USB-C port on the right earcup. The headphone's status indicator is a helpful feature that flashes green to indicate rapid charge and solid blue when Bluetooth pairing is active.
The B&W app has the same controls as the buttons on the hardware including bass and treble adjustment, action button assignment wear detection, the ability to cycle through ANC modes, and more. When you play music on your iPhone, the app displays album cover and track titles. However, the most popular features like music presets or a soundscapes feature are missing.
Sennheiser HD 800 S
The HD 800 S is the successor to the legendary headphones from Sennheiser and is designed to meet the highest demands. The design and construction of the headphones has been optimized to provide a detail resolution that encompasses all the spectrum of frequencies as well as dynamic range and stereo panorama. It's the most realistic spatial audio you can get from open-back headphones.
The headphone has an impedance of 300 ohms, which means it requires a top-quality headphone amplifier that can drive it to the levels you want without distortion. A balanced connection is recommended as this will double the power output and enhance the overall sound quality.
These headphones are made for professional use. They have a metal frame, and a mix of leather and plastic padding. The design is simple and doesn't look like a fancy pair of headphones, however they feel luxurious in the palm and are built well. They come with a carry case, an additional audio cable, and an adapter from 1/4" to 1-/8" adapter.
With a neutral sound profile the HD 800 S reproduces natural instruments and vocals, though they are somewhat light on bass. The open-back design results in a wide out-of-head soundstage. Their treble performance is excellent with only minor dips and peaks. The region of the treble is linear and you won't have issues with piercingsibilants or even the upper bite of the drum snare.
They still have the ability to deliver, dynamism and impact in the event of need, despite the absence of a booming low-end. They will still be enjoyable for those who love listening to rock music that has punchy basslines, but they may not be as enjoyable as some of the models on this list such as the HiFiMan Arya.
The Sennheiser headphones have a great mid-range. They are straight and have an incline on the upper mids, which won't be noticed by most listeners. They also can reproduce fine time gradations which is an added bonus.
The HD 800 S are a pair of exceptional headphones, ideal for audiophiles and professionals. They are a top pick due to their exceptional sound quality and a comfortable fit. They're costly however, you're getting headphones that will last for many years to be able to perform well in any setting.
Anker Soundcore Life q20
The Anker Soundcore Life Q20 are a decent pair of headphones that can provide the perfect solution for anyone looking to relax or simply needs a cheap pair of noise-cancelling headphones. They come with a basic pouch that provides protection when you put them into your bag, and their battery can last for multiple long haul flights. The ANC can effectively block out noisy passengers and engine rumbles, however their audio profile is a little warmer and bass-heavy.
The Life Q20's controls are easy to navigate and well-marked. On the left earcup there are buttons for powering up and pairing the headphones, as well as for turning on or off active noise cancellation. On the right earcup, you'll see controls for playing back media. This includes a multi-function key that activates your phone's voice assistance and switches on Anker BassUp (more about it later). You can also use the built-in microphone to make calls hands-free with your phone.
Anker's Soundcore Life Q20 headphones offer an immersive and rich listening experience, due to the custom 40mm dynamic drivers that offer certified Hi-Res Audio. With a treble that extends up to 40 kHz they offer exceptional clarity and detail, while their active noise cancelling technology is designed to block out a wide range of mid- and low-frequency sounds.
One important thing to be aware of about the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 is that they don't support aptX, which is a disappointment. This means that you won't not be able to take advantage of the superior codes' lower latency while gaming on your computer.
In terms of comfort, the Life Q20's memory foam ear cups and headband are soft enough to wear for extended periods of time without causing any discomfort. The earcups can be rotated to accommodate the shape of your head. The included 3.5mm audio cable lets you to listen to music while charging the battery.