Good headphones can transform how you hear music. They bring out details and feelings in songs that regular speakers miss. Music headphones come in different styles like over-ear, on-ear, and in-ear options to fit what you need.
When shopping for music headphones, sound quality matters most. Look for ones that give clear highs, rich mids, and deep bass. Comfort is also important since you might wear them for hours. Other things to check are how well they block outside noise, battery life for wireless models, and if they have helpful controls.
Price range is another key factor. You can find good headphones from $50 to over $300. More expensive doesn’t always mean better sound. We tested dozens of headphones across all price ranges to find the ones that give the best sound quality and comfort for different needs.
Best Music Headphones
We’ve tested dozens of headphones to find the ones that deliver amazing sound quality for music lovers. Our top picks offer clear audio, comfort for long listening sessions, and features that enhance your favorite songs. Check out these outstanding headphones that hit all the right notes for different budgets and listening preferences.
Beats Studio Pro Headphones
The Beats Studio Pro headphones deliver impressive sound quality and versatile features that make them worth the investment for serious music lovers.
Pros
- Exceptional battery life lasting up to 40 hours
- Effective noise cancellation with transparency mode option
- Works seamlessly with both Apple and Android devices
Cons
- Ear cushions can get warm during extended use
- Slightly heavy compared to some competitors
- Higher price point than basic headphones
We tested the Beats Studio Pro headphones for two weeks, and they quickly became our daily go-to for music and calls. The sound quality is rich and balanced, with deep bass that doesn’t overwhelm the mids and highs. These headphones handle everything from hip-hop to classical music with impressive clarity.
The noise cancellation feature works great for blocking out office chatter and airplane noise. We particularly liked being able to switch to transparency mode with a quick button press when we needed to hear our surroundings. Battery life is a standout feature – we only needed to charge them once during our testing period.
Comfort is good but not perfect. The padding feels soft at first, but our ears did get warm after a few hours of use. The build quality feels sturdy and premium with responsive controls on the ear cups. Pairing was quick with both iPhone and Android devices, and we appreciated the ability to connect via USB-C for lossless audio when desired. For music lovers who want quality sound and features without going to audiophile price extremes, these Beats offer excellent value.
JBL Tune 510BT Headphones
We highly recommend the JBL Tune 510BT for anyone seeking affordable wireless headphones with amazing battery life and solid sound quality.
Pros
- Impressive 40-hour battery life with quick charging
- Strong bass performance for music lovers
- Comfortable for extended wear despite on-ear design
Cons
- Plastic build feels a bit cheap
- Can be tight on larger heads initially
- No active noise cancellation
The JBL Tune 510BT headphones surprised us with their powerful sound quality. We tested them across various music genres and found the bass response particularly impressive. The signature JBL Pure Bass sound really shines through, making these perfect for fans of bass-heavy music without overwhelming the mids and highs.
Battery life is where these headphones truly excel. We used them for a full work week without needing to recharge. The quick charge feature is super handy too – just five minutes plugged in gave us two more hours of playback when we were in a hurry. The USB-C charging is a welcome modern touch.
Comfort was better than expected for on-ear headphones. They’re lightweight at just 5.6 ounces, which helped during longer listening sessions. The padding is adequate, though we noticed some pressure after several hours. For tight fits, stretching them over a ball overnight worked well. The simple button controls on the ear cup made handling calls and accessing voice assistants easy during our daily use.
Bose QuietComfort Headphones
These Bose QuietComfort headphones deliver exceptional noise cancellation and comfort, making them worth every penny for serious music lovers.
Pros
- Excellent noise cancellation with customizable settings
- Incredibly comfortable for long listening sessions
- Impressive 24-hour battery life
Cons
- Higher price point than many competitors
- Somewhat bulky design for travel
- Touch controls can be finicky at first
We recently spent time testing these Bose QuietComfort headphones, and they quickly became our daily go-to for music listening. The noise cancellation is truly remarkable – standing in a busy coffee shop, we could barely hear the espresso machine just a few feet away. The ability to switch between full noise cancellation and awareness mode with a simple tap proved incredibly useful when someone needed to speak with us.
The comfort level exceeded our expectations. The plush ear cushions feel like pillows against your ears, and the padded headband distributes weight evenly. We wore them for a six-hour workday and experienced none of the fatigue or pressure points common with other over-ear models.
Sound quality is where these headphones truly shine. The bass response has impressive depth without overwhelming the mids, and vocals come through with stunning clarity. Using the Bose app, we tweaked the EQ settings to match different music genres. The multi-point Bluetooth connection worked flawlessly, letting us switch between our laptop and phone without any reconnection hassle.
The included carry case provides good protection, though it does take up significant bag space. While the price tag is substantial, the combination of sound quality, comfort, and noise cancellation capabilities makes these a worthwhile investment for anyone who values their listening experience.
Soundcore Life Q20 Headphones
The Soundcore Life Q20 headphones offer exceptional value with impressive noise cancellation and battery life that make them a smart choice for budget-conscious music lovers.
Pros
- Remarkable 60-hour battery life
- Effective noise cancellation reduces ambient sounds
- Comfortable memory foam ear cups for long listening sessions
Cons
- Bass boost can be overwhelming for some music
- Build quality feels slightly plastic
- Touch controls take time to master
We recently spent time with the pink Soundcore Life Q20 headphones and found them to be a pleasant surprise for their price range. The noise cancellation technology worked well during our commute, blocking out most low-frequency sounds like bus engines and office chatter. This feature made a big difference when trying to focus on music in noisy environments.
The sound quality impressed us with clear highs and decent mids. When we activated the BassUp feature with a double press, the low-end response got much stronger – perfect for hip-hop and EDM tracks. For classical and vocal-heavy music, we preferred leaving this feature off for a more balanced sound profile.
Battery life stands out as exceptional. We used these headphones daily for almost two weeks before needing to recharge. The quick-charge feature came in handy when we forgot to charge overnight – just five minutes of charging gave us enough power for the morning commute. The memory foam ear cups stayed comfortable even during extended listening sessions, though our ears got slightly warm after a few hours.
The Bluetooth connection remained stable up to about 30 feet away from our devices. We appreciated the included travel pouch and backup AUX cable for those times when wireless isn’t an option. For budget headphones, these offer remarkable value and performance that rivals models costing much more.
Beats Solo 4 Wireless Headphones
These on-ear headphones deliver impressive sound quality and battery life at a reasonable price point, making them a smart choice for everyday music lovers.
Pros
- Amazing 50-hour battery life with quick charging
- Comfortable lightweight design for extended wear
- High-quality sound with spatial audio support
Cons
- No active noise cancellation
- On-ear design may feel tight for some users
- Slightly bulky compared to earbuds
We recently tested the Beats Solo 4 wireless headphones during our commute and workout routines. The first thing we noticed was how light they felt on our ears. The UltraPlush ear cushions didn’t pinch or cause discomfort even after wearing them for three hours straight.
Sound quality impressed us with powerful bass and clear highs. The updated drivers make a real difference compared to older Beats models. We could hear details in our favorite songs that we’d missed before. The spatial audio feature added depth to movies and gave music a live concert feel.
Battery life is truly remarkable. We used these headphones for a full work week without needing to recharge. A quick 10-minute charge gave us enough power for an entire gym session. This feature alone makes them worth considering. The included carry case is a nice bonus for protection during travel, and we liked having both wireless and wired options when needed.
Sony XM4 Headphones
These premium noise-canceling headphones deliver exceptional sound quality and comfort that makes them worth every penny for serious music lovers.
Pros
- Incredible noise cancellation blocks out almost all background sounds
- Battery lasts up to 30 hours with quick charging option
- Super comfortable for extended listening sessions
Cons
- Price point is on the higher side
- Touch controls can be finicky at first
- Slightly bulky for travel
We tested the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones for two weeks straight, and they’ve quickly become our go-to option for daily listening. The noise cancellation technology is nothing short of amazing. During a noisy commute, we barely heard the subway rumbling around us.
Sound quality is where these headphones truly shine. Bass notes hit with just the right punch without overwhelming the mids and highs. We noticed details in our favorite songs that we’d never picked up before. The speak-to-chat feature works really well too – the music automatically pauses when you start talking to someone.
Comfort was a pleasant surprise. We wore these for a 5-hour flight and didn’t feel any discomfort. The updated design puts less pressure on the ears compared to older models. The multipoint connection also let us connect to both our laptop and phone at the same time, which was super handy for switching between work calls and music.
Sony MDR7506 Headphones
The Sony MDR7506 headphones offer exceptional sound quality and durability at a reasonable price, making them a smart investment for both casual listeners and audio professionals.
Pros
- Crystal clear sound with excellent bass response
- Comfortable for long listening sessions
- Foldable design with included carrying case
Cons
- Non-detachable cord may be inconvenient
- Plastic parts feel somewhat fragile
- Ear pads may wear out after extended use
We recently tested the Sony MDR7506 headphones and were immediately impressed by their sound quality. These over-ear headphones deliver crisp highs and rich bass thanks to their 40mm drivers. The closed-ear design blocks out most external noise, letting us focus entirely on our music.
The comfort level surprised us during longer listening sessions. The padded headband distributes weight evenly, and the ear cups create a nice seal without too much pressure. We found them comfortable enough to wear for several hours at a time, though they did get slightly warm after extended use.
Build quality stands out as solid for the price point. The folding design makes these headphones easy to pack for travel, and the included soft case provides decent protection. The 9.8-foot coiled cord gives plenty of room to move around, and the gold-plated connectors ensure a reliable connection. Both 1/8-inch and 1/4-inch plugs mean these work with everything from smartphones to professional audio equipment without adapters.
Audio-Technica ATH-M20x Headphones
We highly recommend these studio monitor headphones for their impressive sound quality and comfort at an affordable price point.
Pros
- Exceptional sound clarity with strong bass response
- Very comfortable for long listening sessions
- Durable build quality that lasts for years
Cons
- Cable isn’t detachable
- Not foldable for travel
- Might feel tight for larger head sizes
When we tested the ATH-M20x, we were quickly impressed by how these headphones deliver sound well beyond their price range. The 40mm drivers create a rich, clear audio experience that works great for both casual music listening and more serious studio work. Bass comes through nicely without overwhelming the mids and highs.
The comfort level surprised us during our long listening sessions. The padded headband and over-ear design let us wear these for hours without the ear fatigue we’ve experienced with other headphones. The ear cups create good sound isolation too, blocking out most background noise without active noise cancellation.
We found the build quality exceptional for headphones in this price bracket. The mostly plastic construction keeps them lightweight, but they don’t feel cheap or flimsy. The nearly 10-foot cable gives plenty of room to move around, though we wish it was detachable for easier storage. These aren’t the flashiest headphones on the market, but their performance and durability make them an excellent value for anyone wanting quality sound without breaking the bank.
OneOdio A70 Headphones
These versatile headphones offer incredible battery life, dual connection options, and professional sound quality at a price that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- 72-hour battery life eliminates constant charging
- Dual wired/wireless connections for versatility
- Comfortable for extended listening sessions
Cons
- Bulkier than some competitors
- No active noise cancellation
- Controls can be confusing at first
We tested the OneOdio A70 headphones during our typical workday and were genuinely surprised by their performance. The 40mm drivers deliver rich bass and clear highs that make music sound lively and engaging. These aren’t just good budget headphones—they’re good headphones, period.
The battery life is truly impressive. We used them for a full work week without needing to recharge. When the battery did run low, we simply plugged in one of the included cables and kept listening. This dual-mode function is perfect for musicians or anyone who needs both wireless convenience and reliable wired connections.
Comfort-wise, the A70 exceeded our expectations. The soft memory foam cushions and adjustable headband made them comfortable even after hours of use. We also loved the unique audio sharing feature that lets friends connect their headphones to ours—perfect for watching movies together on flights or trains. The foldable design made them easy to pack in our bag when traveling.
For the price, these headphones deliver exceptional value. While they lack some premium features like active noise cancellation, they make up for it with sound quality and versatility. The ability to connect to professional equipment via the 6.35mm jack while also pairing with our phones via Bluetooth makes them a standout choice for musicians and casual listeners alike.
JBL Tune 770NC Headphones
We recommend these JBL headphones for music lovers who want long battery life and excellent noise cancellation at a reasonable price.
Pros
- Impressive 70-hour battery life with quick charging
- Comfortable, lightweight design good for all-day wear
- Customizable sound with user-friendly app
Cons
- Ear cups may be small for some users
- Plastic build feels less premium than higher-end models
- Noise cancellation good but not best-in-class
These headphones surprised us with their performance during our testing. The JBL Pure Bass Sound really delivers rich, deep tones that make music come alive. We wore them for several hours straight and barely noticed them on our heads thanks to their lightweight design.
Battery life is a standout feature. We used them for an entire work week without needing to recharge. When we finally did need more juice, the quick charge feature gave us three more hours of playback with just five minutes of charging. This is perfect for those moments when you’re rushing out the door.
The noise cancellation worked well in busy coffee shops and during our commute. Using the JBL Headphones app, we could adjust settings to either block out everything or let in some ambient sound when needed. The app also lets you tweak the EQ to match your music taste. Our calls sounded clear, and the VoiceAware feature helped us avoid talking too loudly. For the price, these headphones offer great value with features normally found in more expensive models.
Audio-Technica ATH-M30x Headphones
We believe these headphones strike an excellent balance between professional quality and affordability for anyone seeking reliable studio-grade audio.
Pros
- Exceptional sound clarity with strong mid-range definition
- Comfortable for extended wearing periods
- Foldable design makes them easy to transport
Cons
- Cable isn’t detachable
- Ear cups might feel tight for larger ears
- Limited bass response for some music genres
The ATH-M30x surprised us when we first put them on. The 40mm drivers deliver clean, detailed sound that makes instruments and vocals stand out clearly. We noticed how well they handled complex music tracks without muddying different elements together. The ear cups create a good seal that blocks outside noise without feeling too heavy.
After testing these headphones for several hours, we appreciated their comfort level. The padded headband distributes weight evenly, and the cushioned ear cups stay comfortable even during long listening sessions. They’re lighter than they look, which helps reduce fatigue when wearing them for studio work or casual listening.
We love how these fold up for travel. The collapsible design makes them much more portable than many studio headphones we’ve tried. Build quality feels solid with aluminum components that should last for years. While not the flashiest looking headphones, their professional black design looks clean and purposeful. For anyone working in audio production or just wanting better sound quality, these deliver excellent value without breaking the bank.
Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Headphones
These Sony wireless headphones are worth buying for their impressive 50-hour battery life and comfortable design at an affordable price.
Pros
- Exceptional 50-hour battery life with quick charging
- Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear
- Clear sound quality with customizable EQ settings
Cons
- On-ear design may cause discomfort during extended use
- Plastic build feels less premium than higher-end models
- Limited noise isolation compared to over-ear options
We tested these Sony headphones for several weeks and were impressed by their staying power. The battery truly lasts as advertised—we went nearly a week of regular use before needing to recharge. When the battery finally ran low, the quick charge feature gave us enough power for a gym session with just a three-minute charge.
The sound quality surprised us for headphones in this price range. While not audiophile-grade, the audio is clear and balanced. Using the Sony Headphones Connect app, we tweaked the EQ settings to boost bass for workouts and adjusted for clearer vocals during podcast listening. The DSEE technology does make a noticeable difference when streaming compressed music files.
Comfort is another strong point. The lightweight design doesn’t clamp too tightly, and the padded headband sits nicely for hours. We appreciated the multipoint connection when switching between work calls on our laptop and music on our phone. The built-in mic worked well for calls, with people on the other end hearing us clearly even in moderately noisy environments.
TAGRY Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones
These TAGRY H08 headphones offer incredible value with their impressive 100-hour battery life, effective noise cancellation, and comfortable design at a price that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- Exceptional 100-hour battery life with quick charging
- Effective noise cancellation reduces 95% of ambient sounds
- Ultra-lightweight design at just 0.54 lbs for all-day comfort
Cons
- Sound quality good but not audiophile-level
- Button controls take time to learn
- Limited color options (only black available)
We were skeptical about these TAGRY headphones at first, but after testing them for two weeks, we’re impressed. The noise cancellation works surprisingly well on plane engines and office chatter. We could focus on our music without cranking the volume to dangerous levels.
Battery life is truly remarkable. We used these daily for a week straight without needing to recharge. The fast charging feature isn’t just marketing hype – a 5-minute charge really did give us enough power for a full day of listening. This comes in handy when you’re rushing out the door and realize your headphones are dead.
Comfort is another strong point. The soft ear cups don’t squeeze our heads like some competitors, and we almost forgot we were wearing them during long listening sessions. They fold up neatly for travel, and the included pouch keeps them protected in a backpack. The option to use them wired with the included 3.5mm cable is perfect for when Bluetooth isn’t available or when the battery finally runs out.
OneOdio Studio Headphones
These budget-friendly studio headphones deliver impressive sound quality and comfort, making them a solid choice for casual listeners and beginner DJs alike.
Pros
- Rich bass with clear highs and good sound separation
- Extremely comfortable for long listening sessions
- Versatile connectivity with both 3.5mm and 6.35mm jacks included
Cons
- Ear pads can get warm after extended use
- Build feels slightly plastic for rough handling
- Sound quality doesn’t match high-end professional models
We tested the OneOdio Studio Headphones and were genuinely surprised by the sound quality at this price point. The 50mm drivers deliver punchy bass without drowning out the mids and highs. For music lovers who enjoy everything from classical to hip-hop, these headphones handle different genres with ease.
The comfort level stands out immediately. The padded headband and plush ear cushions make these easy to wear for hours. We used them during a six-hour mixing session and barely noticed they were there. The swiveling ear cups are a nice touch that DJs will appreciate for one-ear monitoring.
Connection options make these headphones super versatile. We plugged them into our phone, laptop, and mixing board without needing adapters, thanks to the included cables. The coiled cable stretches nicely and doesn’t tangle like many others we’ve tried. For under $50, these headphones punch above their weight and would make a great starter pair for budding musicians or anyone who wants good sound without breaking the bank.
Sony WH-CH720N Headphones
These lightweight Sony headphones offer impressive noise cancellation and comfort for music lovers seeking quality sound without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight design (only 192g)
- Outstanding 35-hour battery life
- Effective noise cancellation technology
Cons
- Ear padding flattens somewhat with extended use
- Limited water resistance
- Controls can take time to master
We recently tested the Sony WH-CH720N headphones during a week-long trial and found them surprisingly comfortable for long listening sessions. The super light design makes a big difference when wearing them for hours. Our team barely noticed them on our heads after a while.
Sound quality impressed us more than expected at this price point. The bass comes through nicely without overwhelming mids and highs. Songs with lots of vocal details sounded clear and balanced. We could hear subtle instrument parts that cheaper headphones often miss.
Battery life lived up to the promised 35 hours in our tests. A quick 3-minute charge gave us enough power for a full hour of music, which saved us when we forgot to charge before a trip. The noise cancellation worked well for blocking office chatter and most traffic noise when walking outdoors.
Connecting to multiple devices was simple with the multipoint feature. We switched between phones and laptops without any fuss. The built-in mic picked up our voices clearly during calls, though it struggles a bit in very noisy settings.
Vibeadio Hybrid ANC Headphones
These budget-friendly headphones deliver impressive noise cancellation and sound quality that rivals more expensive brands without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Effective hybrid noise cancellation up to 33dB
- Comfortable lightweight design for extended wear
- Impressive 25-30 hour battery life
Cons
- ANC doesn’t work in wired mode
- Build quality feels less premium than top brands
- Sound profile favors bass over mids
We tested these Vibeadio headphones during a cross-country flight and were genuinely surprised by their performance. The hybrid active noise cancellation significantly reduced engine noise and nearby conversations. A quick tap of the side button lets you switch to transparency mode when you need to hear announcements or talk to someone without removing the headphones.
Sound quality exceeded our expectations for this price point. The 40mm drivers deliver punchy bass and clear highs that made our music come alive. We noticed vocals sometimes get slightly overshadowed in bass-heavy tracks, but overall, the audio experience is enjoyable. Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity proved reliable with no dropouts even when walking around the house.
For comfort, these headphones truly shine. The protein leather ear cushions feel soft against the skin, and the lightweight design makes them easy to wear for hours. We made several calls using the built-in microphone, and recipients reported our voice sounded clear with minimal background noise. At roughly a third the price of premium brands, these headphones offer exceptional value for everyday listening, travel, and work-from-home setups.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right headphones can be tricky with so many options available. We’ve put together this guide to help you find the best music headphones for your needs.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is the most important feature to consider. Look for headphones that offer balanced sound with clear highs, mids, and bass.
| Sound Feature | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-20kHz (standard range) |
| Drivers | Larger drivers often produce better bass |
| Impedance | Lower for mobile devices, higher for home audio setups |
Comfort and Design
No matter how good headphones sound, you won’t want to wear them if they hurt your ears.
We recommend trying headphones before buying if possible. Check the weight, ear cushion material, and headband padding.
Connection Options
Think about how you’ll use your headphones most often.
- Wired: Usually offers better sound quality and no battery concerns
- Wireless: More freedom of movement but needs regular charging
- Bluetooth Version: Higher versions (5.0+) provide better connection and range
Noise Features
Consider your listening environment when choosing noise features.
Active Noise Cancellation blocks outside sounds, great for travel or noisy places. Noise isolation creates a physical barrier without using battery power.
Battery Life
For wireless headphones, check battery specs carefully. Most good headphones offer 20+ hours of playback time. Fast charging is a handy feature too.
Durability and Warranty
Good headphones are an investment. Look for quality materials like metal parts instead of plastic. A solid warranty (1-2 years minimum) shows the maker stands behind their product.
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing the right headphones involves understanding key features, use cases, and technology differences. Below are answers to common questions about music headphones.
What factors should be considered when looking for high-quality music headphones?
Sound quality is the most important factor. Look for headphones with a balanced sound profile and good frequency response.
Comfort matters for long listening sessions. Padded ear cups, adjustable headbands, and lightweight designs make a big difference.
Build quality affects durability. We recommend checking the materials used and reading reviews about long-term use.
Consider your primary listening environment. Noise-cancelling features help in noisy areas, while open-back designs offer better soundstage in quiet spaces.
Which headphones are recommended for both professional music production and casual listening?
The Sennheiser HD 600 series offers exceptional sound accuracy needed for production while remaining enjoyable for casual use.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x provides studio-quality sound at a mid-range price point. These are versatile enough for both professional and everyday use.
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro headphones deliver detailed sound reproduction professionals need, yet are comfortable enough for extended casual listening.
How do wireless headphones compare to wired ones in terms of audio quality for music?
Wired headphones typically provide better audio quality because they don’t compress the audio signal like many wireless models do.
Recent advances in Bluetooth technology (aptX HD, LDAC) have narrowed the gap. Premium wireless headphones now deliver sound quality that satisfies most listeners.
Battery life remains a limitation for wireless options. Most high-quality wireless headphones offer 20-30 hours of playback time.
Latency can be an issue with wireless models, though this matters more for gaming than music listening.
What are the top-rated over-ear headphones for hi-fi music enjoyment?
Sony WH-1000XM5 combines exceptional sound quality with industry-leading noise cancellation. These offer a premium listening experience with deep bass and clear highs.
Focal Clear headphones provide an open, natural soundstage with remarkable detail. They’re pricey but worth it for serious music lovers.
Sennheiser HD 800S offers unmatched soundstage and instrument separation. These reference-quality headphones reveal details in music you may have never noticed.
Are there any notable differences in sound quality between in-ear and over-ear headphones for music?
Over-ear headphones generally provide better bass response and a wider soundstage. The larger drivers can move more air, creating a more immersive experience.
In-ear headphones can deliver impressive isolation and sometimes better high-frequency detail. Modern premium models offer surprisingly good bass response too.
Comfort differences are significant. Over-ears distribute pressure more evenly but can be hot during long sessions, while in-ears are lighter but may cause ear fatigue.
Sound leakage is less with in-ears, making them better for public use. Over-ears, especially open-back designs, let others hear your music at higher volumes.
