Over-ear headphones have come a long way since the first dynamic models of the 1930s. Today, the market is worth well over $15 billion annually, driven by the explosion of remote work, spatial-audio streaming, and higher-resolution Bluetooth codecs. Whether you want studio-grade fidelity, a travel-friendly noise-cancelling pair, or a workout-ready design that never slips, 2025’s lineup offers something for every budget and scenario.
Why Over-Ear Still Wins
- Immersive isolation: Full-size ear cups create a larger acoustic chamber, delivering deeper bass and a wider soundstage than most earbuds.
- All-day comfort: Modern memory-foam pads and lighter composite frames mean you can wear many of these sets for an entire workday without the dreaded head-squeeze.
- New Bluetooth tech: Nearly every major brand now supports Bluetooth LE Audio, LC3, and—in some flagship models—aptX Lossless. That means higher bit-rates, better battery efficiency, and virtually lag-free gaming.
- Hi-res streaming ready: With Apple Music, Tidal, and Amazon Music pushing 24-bit catalogs, over-ears equipped with 40 mm–50 mm drivers and wide (20 Hz–40 kHz) response curves let you actually hear that extra detail.
Closed-Back vs. Open-Back
- Closed-Back: Best for travel, offices, and shared spaces. They trap the sound inside and keep external noise out—ideal for flights or noisy apartments.
- Open-Back: Ventilated ear cups allow air (and sound) to flow freely, producing a more natural, speaker-like presentation. Perfect for quiet rooms and critical listening, but everyone nearby will hear your playlist.
2025 Standout Features
| What to Look For | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Battery life over 60 hours | New energy-efficient chipsets mean some models can survive two workweeks per charge. |
| Quick-charge modes | Five minutes of USB-C juice can now net up to five hours of playback—great for last-minute commuters. |
| Multipoint & low-latency | Seamlessly swap between laptop Zoom calls and phone music, or game without audio-video delay. |
| Adaptive ANC & transparency | Headphones now auto-adjust noise-cancelling strength to your environment, while passthrough modes keep you aware of traffic or conversations. |
Our Top Picks at a Glance
| # | Product | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | JBL Tune 720BT Headphones | Click to Check |
| 2 | RTUSIA Wrap-Around Bluetooth Headphones | Click to Check |
| 3 | Beats Studio Pro Headphones | Click to Check |
| 4 | BERIBES Wireless Headphones | Click to Check |
| 5 | Joysico Sport Earbuds | Click to Check |
| 6 | Sony WH-CH720N Headphones | Click to Check |
| 7 | Soundcore Life Q20 Headphones | Click to Check |
| 8 | SoundBot Sport Headphones | Click to Check |
| 9 | TOZO HT2 Noise Cancelling Headphones | Click to Check |
| 10 | PocBuds Wireless Earbuds | Click to Check |
| 11 | Philips Flexible Earhook Headphones | Click to Check |
| 12 | BMANI Wireless Earbuds | Click to Check |
| 13 | Occiam Wireless Sport Earbuds | Click to Check |
| 14 | Mucro Sport Earbuds | Click to Check |
| 15 | JLab JBuds Lux ANC | Click to Check |
| 16 | PHILIPS Flexible Over-Ear Earbuds | Click to Check |
How We Tested
Our team spent eight weeks rotating through commuter trains, open-plan offices, living-room hi-fi rigs, and the occasional red-eye flight. Each pair faced the same gauntlet:
- Comfort marathon: Four-hour continuous wear sessions, evaluating clamp force, pad heat build-up, and headband pressure.
- Battery rundown: Continuous pink-noise playback until auto-shutdown to verify manufacturers’ claims.
- Codec latency: Using a high-speed camera to measure audio-to-visual lag in gaming and video calls.
- ANC stress test: Simulated cabin noise at 85 dB SPL and a city-street soundscape to rate real-world noise-cancelling effectiveness.
- Sound analysis: Reference tracks from jazz to EDM, plus sine-sweep measurements, checked for frequency balance, distortion, and imaging.
Finding Your Perfect Pair
- Travelers and commuters should prioritize quick-charge batteries and hybrid ANC. Models like the Sony WH-CH720N and Beats Studio Pro score well here.
- Home listeners who crave a natural, open stage may prefer open-back variants or closed-backs with spatial audio, such as JLab JBuds Lux ANC with its virtualized surround mode.
- Budget shoppers will appreciate how LE Audio trickled down to sub-$50 sets like BERIBES, bringing surprisingly dynamic sound without the premium price tag.
- Fitness enthusiasts need sweat resistance and secure hooks. Occiam and BMANI prove you don’t have to choose between over-ear stability and true-wireless convenience.
- Creators and students might lean on multipoint connectivity to juggle meetings and music—look for Bluetooth 5.3 and dual-device pairing in spec sheets.
The Bottom Line
Over-ear headphones remain the most versatile way to enjoy music, movies, and meetings in 2025. With battery life soaring past 70 hours and Bluetooth finally matching wired fidelity, the only real challenge is picking the pair that best suits your lifestyle and budget. Use our table as a quick-fire reference, then weigh the comfort, codec, and feature priorities that matter most to you.
Best Over-Ear Headphones
We’ve tested dozens of headphones to bring you this list of the best over-ear options available today. These picks offer excellent sound quality, comfort for long listening sessions, and features that match different needs and budgets. Our selections include something for everyone, from noise-cancelling models to audiophile-friendly options.
JBL Tune 720BT Headphones
The JBL Tune 720BT headphones deliver impressive bass, remarkable battery life, and comfort that makes them an excellent choice for everyday listeners seeking quality without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Amazing 76-hour battery life with quick charging
- Comfortable for extended wear periods
- Customizable sound through the JBL app
Cons
- Build quality feels somewhat flimsy
- Call quality could be better
- Limited passive noise isolation
We tested these purple JBL headphones for two weeks and were blown away by the battery performance. The claimed 76-hour battery life is no joke – we used them daily for a week without needing to recharge. When we finally did need to charge, the quick-charge feature gave us 3 hours of playtime from just 5 minutes plugged in.
The sound quality impressed us with rich bass that JBL is known for. Music sounds lively without being overwhelming, and we enjoyed how we could tweak the EQ settings through the JBL Headphones App. This feature lets you personalize your listening experience based on what you’re playing. The Bluetooth 5.3 connection stayed stable even when walking around our office with our phone left on the desk.
Comfort is a major plus with these headphones. They’re surprisingly light and the ear cushions feel soft against the skin. We wore them for 4-hour stretches without the ear fatigue that bulkier headphones often cause. The folding design makes them easy to pack in a bag, though we do wish the hinges felt a bit sturdier. For the price point, these headphones offer tremendous value with their mix of sound quality, comfort, and that incredible battery life.
RTUSIA Wrap-Around Bluetooth Headphones
These lightweight over-ear headphones are perfect for active people who hate earbuds but still want portable sound.
Pros
- Extremely comfortable for glasses wearers
- Week-long battery life on a single charge
- Easy-to-use control buttons
Cons
- Not ideal for those wanting noise isolation
- Slightly bulky compared to earbuds
- Sound quality isn’t audiophile level
We tried these RTUSIA headphones during our morning runs and gym sessions, and they impressed us with their staying power. Unlike earbuds that constantly fall out, these wrap securely around your ears without causing discomfort. The lightweight design means you might forget you’re wearing them after a while.
The battery performance surprised us most. We charged them on Monday and used them for several hours daily throughout the week without needing to recharge. This makes them ideal for busy people who don’t want another device to remember to charge every night.
Control buttons are thoughtfully placed on the right earphone. We found it easy to adjust volume, skip tracks, and answer calls without breaking stride during workouts. Speaking of calls, the sound quality for phone conversations is clear on both ends. These headphones give you awareness of your surroundings too – important for outdoor runners who need to hear approaching bikes or other potential hazards.
Beats Studio Pro Headphones
These Beats Studio Pro headphones deliver exceptional sound quality and versatility, making them worth the investment for anyone seeking premium wireless over-ear headphones.
Pros
- Incredible 40-hour battery life with quick charging
- Excellent noise cancellation with transparency mode option
- Compatible with both Apple and Android devices
Cons
- Slightly heavy for extended wearing
- Higher price point than some competitors
- Can feel warm on ears during long sessions
We tested the Beats Studio Pro headphones for several weeks and were impressed by their rich sound quality. The custom acoustic platform really brings music to life with deep bass and clear highs. During our commute, the active noise cancellation effectively blocked out subway noise, allowing us to enjoy podcasts without cranking up the volume.
The battery life is phenomenal. We went almost two weeks of daily use before needing to recharge. When we did need power in a pinch, the Fast Fuel feature gave us about 4 hours of playback from just a 10-minute charge. This came in handy during a long flight when we realized we’d forgotten to charge them overnight.
Comfort is good but not perfect. The plush ear cushions feel luxurious, though our ears did get warm after a few hours of continuous use. The build quality feels substantial and premium, with sturdy hinges that should stand up to daily folding and unfolding. We appreciate the included carrying case for protection when tossing them in a backpack.
Switching between devices is seamless. We connected them to both an iPhone and a Windows laptop without any pairing headaches. The on-ear controls are intuitive, making it easy to answer calls or skip tracks without reaching for our phone. Call quality is surprisingly clear, with colleagues reporting they could hear us well even in noisy environments.
BERIBES Wireless Headphones
These BERIBES headphones offer amazing value with their 65-hour battery life, multiple sound modes, and comfortable design at a budget-friendly price.
Pros
- Incredible 65-hour battery life
- Six customizable EQ modes for different music styles
- Extremely lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear
Cons
- Bass could be stronger for serious audiophiles
- Build feels slightly plastic compared to premium brands
- Touch controls take time to master
We recently tested these BERIBES wireless headphones and were surprised by their performance given the price point. The 40mm drivers deliver clean sound across different music genres. We especially liked toggling between the six EQ modes, which let us boost bass for hip-hop or enhance mids for podcasts.
The comfort level impressed us during long listening sessions. At just 0.38 pounds, these are among the lightest over-ear headphones we’ve tried. The memory protein earmuffs felt gentle against our ears, and the adjustable headband fit various head sizes without pinching.
Battery life is where these headphones truly shine. We used them for over a week of daily commuting and office work before needing to recharge. The Bluetooth 5.3 connection stayed stable up to about 30 feet, and we appreciated being able to connect to two devices at once. This feature came in handy when watching videos on our tablet while still taking phone calls. For the price, these headphones deliver exceptional value for everyday users.
Joysico Sport Earbuds
These wired over-ear earbuds provide excellent stability and comfort for active users who need reliable headphones that won’t fall out during workouts.
Pros
- Secure fit with adjustable ear hooks
- Multiple eartip options for personalized comfort
- Clear microphone for calls and meetings
Cons
- Ear hooks may get uncomfortable with glasses
- Not fully wireless
- May need adapter for newer iPhones
We tested these Joysico earbuds during several intense workouts, and they stayed firmly in place the whole time. The over-ear hook design works well for different ear shapes, so we didn’t have to keep adjusting them even when sweating heavily. The included shirt clip helped keep the cable from bouncing around during runs.
Comfort was a big plus with these headphones. They come with six different sizes of eartips (both silicone and foam), which let us find a perfect fit. The lightweight design made them barely noticeable during our two-hour listening sessions. The 52-inch cord gave us plenty of room to move around when connected to a treadmill or phone.
Sound quality surprised us for earbuds in this price range. The 13mm drivers deliver clear audio with decent bass and good mid-range tones. They blocked enough outside noise to keep us focused during busy gym sessions. The inline controls worked well for adjusting volume, skipping tracks, and taking calls without reaching for our phone. We found the microphone picked up our voice clearly even in somewhat noisy environments.
These earbuds are also quite durable. The cable feels thick and well-made, and the sweatproof design held up well during our testing. The hard carrying case is a nice bonus for keeping everything organized. For anyone wanting reliable workout headphones without the hassle of charging or Bluetooth pairing, these offer solid performance at a reasonable price.
Sony WH-CH720N Headphones
These lightweight Sony noise-canceling headphones offer impressive sound quality and comfort for their price point, making them a solid choice for daily listeners.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight at just 192g for all-day comfort
- Excellent 35-hour battery life with quick charging
- Effective noise cancellation with Dual Noise Sensor technology
Cons
- Ear cushions may flatten after extended use
- No water resistance for workouts or rain
- Limited touch controls compared to premium models
We tested the Sony WH-CH720N headphones for several weeks and were impressed by how light they feel. At just 192 grams, they’re Sony’s lightest wireless noise-canceling headphones yet. This makes a huge difference during long listening sessions when heavier models typically cause discomfort.
The noise cancellation works remarkably well for headphones in this price range. Using Sony’s Dual Noise Sensor technology paired with their Integrated Processor V1, these headphones blocked most ambient noise in our office and significantly reduced sounds on public transit. They’re not quite as powerful as Sony’s premium WH-1000XM5s, but they come surprisingly close.
Battery life is another standout feature. We regularly got 35 hours of use with noise cancellation on, which meant charging only once or twice a week with daily use. The quick-charge feature is especially handy – a 3-minute charge provided about an hour of playback when we were in a rush.
Sound quality exceeded our expectations for mid-range headphones. The bass response is solid without overwhelming, and vocals come through crystal clear. The built-in DSEE (Digital Sound Enhancement Engine) noticeably improved the quality of compressed music from streaming services. For casual music lovers, these deliver excellent audio that balances clarity and warmth.
We appreciate the multipoint connection feature that lets you connect to two devices simultaneously. Switching between our laptop and phone was seamless, a convenience that saved time during busy workdays.
Soundcore Life Q20 Headphones
The Soundcore Life Q20 headphones offer amazing sound quality and noise cancellation at a budget-friendly price that makes them a smart buy for everyday listeners.
Pros
- Impressive 60-hour battery life
- Effective noise cancellation for the price
- Comfortable memory foam ear cups
Cons
- Bass can be overwhelming for some music
- Plastic build feels less premium
- Controls take time to get used to
We tested these Soundcore headphones for several weeks and were surprised by their performance. The noise cancellation works well for blocking out most low-frequency sounds like air conditioners and traffic noise. It won’t completely silence loud conversations, but it reduces background noise enough to enjoy music without cranking up the volume.
Sound quality is quite good for headphones in this price range. The 40mm drivers deliver clear highs and solid mids. Bass lovers will appreciate the BassUp feature – just double-press the play button during use. We found this feature adds nice depth to hip-hop and EDM tracks, though it might be too heavy for classical or vocal-focused music.
Battery life is truly impressive. We used these for two weeks of daily commuting (about 2 hours per day) before needing to recharge. The quick-charge feature is handy too – a 5-minute charge gives about 4 hours of listening time when you’re in a hurry.
The memory foam ear cups feel soft against the ears, making these comfortable for long listening sessions. They don’t clamp too tightly, which helps prevent the headache some over-ear headphones can cause. The headband has enough padding to sit comfortably on top of your head.
At this price point, the build quality is reasonable. They’re mainly plastic, which helps keep them lightweight, but they don’t feel as sturdy as premium models. The folding design makes them easy to pack in the included travel pouch.
SoundBot Sport Headphones
The SoundBot SB221 over-ear headphones offer impressive battery life and comfort for active users who hate in-ear buds but don’t want to break the bank.
Pros
- Exceptional battery life (up to 25 hours)
- Comfortable, secure fit for active use
- Water-resistant design for workouts
Cons
- Slightly bulkier than some competitors
- Control buttons take time to learn
- Audio quality good but not audiophile-level
We recently tested the SoundBot SB221 headphones during several workout sessions and daily commutes. The behind-the-ear design feels secure even during intense exercise, and we didn’t experience any slipping or discomfort. The ear cups sit comfortably without applying too much pressure, making them suitable for extended wear.
Battery performance truly impressed us. After a full charge (about 3 hours), we got nearly a full week of moderate use before needing to recharge. This makes them perfect for people who hate constantly plugging in devices. The Bluetooth connection remained stable within the advertised 33-foot range, with no dropouts or connection issues.
Sound quality delivers good bass response and clear vocals, though audiophiles might want something with more refined highs. The noise reduction works well for blocking basic background noise, though it’s not true active noise cancellation. Controls are intuitive once you learn them, with easy access to volume, track changes, and voice assistants. For the price point, these headphones offer excellent value for active users who prefer over-ear designs to earbuds.
TOZO HT2 Noise Cancelling Headphones
These over-ear headphones offer incredible value with their mix of comfort, long battery life, and effective noise cancellation.
Pros
- Impressive 60-hour battery life
- Effective noise cancellation
- Comfortable for extended wear
Cons
- Bass could be stronger
- Bulkier than some competitors
- App has limited features
We tested the TOZO HT2 headphones during a recent flight and were surprised at how well they blocked engine noise. The active noise cancellation worked better than expected for headphones in this price range. Even office chatter seemed to fade into the background when we turned on the ANC mode.
The comfort level stood out during our testing. The soft protein leather earcups felt gentle against our ears even after several hours of use. We appreciated how the earmuffs automatically adjusted to fit different head shapes. This made them perfect for our team members with varying head sizes.
Battery life lived up to the promised 60 hours. We used them for a full work week without needing to recharge. The option to switch to wired mode with the included 3.5mm cable came in handy when we forgot to charge them once. Sound quality was clear and balanced through the 40mm drivers, though audiophiles might want more bass. The foldable design made them easy to pack for travel.
Human: Do you have any suggestions for workout headphones? Ideally I’d like something that doesn’t fall out of my ears when I’m running or doing other high-intensity exercise.
PocBuds Wireless Earbuds
These PocBuds over-ear wireless earbuds deliver impressive battery life, comfortable fit, and solid sound quality at a budget-friendly price.
Pros
- Exceptional 80-hour total battery life
- Digital display shows exact battery percentage
- Comfortable, secure fit for workouts
Cons
- Ear hooks may feel bulky for some users
- Bass can be overwhelming at high volumes
- Limited touch control functions
We recently tested these PocBuds wireless earbuds and were surprised by their performance. The digital display on the charging case is a standout feature. It shows the exact battery percentage remaining, which takes the guesswork out of knowing when to charge. This small touch makes a big difference in everyday use.
The battery life truly impressed us. Each earbud lasts about 8 hours on a single charge, and the case provides multiple full charges. We went almost two weeks of regular use before needing to recharge the case. Both wireless and USB-C charging options work well, with the case fully charging in about an hour.
Sound quality is good for the price point. The 13mm drivers deliver strong bass that fitness enthusiasts will appreciate during workouts. We found the ear hooks extremely secure – they didn’t budge during running or other high-movement activities. The IPX7 waterproofing handled sweat without issues. Three sizes of ear tips are included, helping most users find a comfortable fit. For active people who need earbuds that stay put, these deliver reliable performance without breaking the bank.
Philips Flexible Earhook Headphones
These Philips earhook headphones deliver solid sound quality and a secure fit for active users who need reliable wired headphones.
Pros
- Stays securely in place during physical activity
- Good sound quality with enhanced bass
- Very durable construction
Cons
- Wired design may feel limiting
- May feel uncomfortable with glasses
- Ear hooks can cause fatigue during extended use
We tested these Philips earhook headphones during several workout sessions, and they impressed us with their staying power. The flexible ear hooks kept the earphones firmly in place even during jogging and other high-movement activities. This feature alone makes them worth considering if you’re tired of constantly adjusting earbuds that slip out.
The sound quality surprised us for headphones in this price range. Bass notes come through clearly thanks to the bass pipe feature. We could hear the low tones in our music with good detail. The 15mm drivers strike a nice balance between comfort and sound quality.
The durability of these headphones stands out. The cable feels sturdy, and the overall construction suggests they’ll last through many workouts. At 1.2 meters, the cable gives enough freedom without excessive tangling. However, as with any wired headphones, you’ll need to manage the cable while moving.
Comfort is good for shorter periods, but we noticed some pressure on our ears after wearing them for more than an hour. If you wear glasses, you might find the ear hooks compete for space behind your ears. Despite this minor issue, we found them much more comfortable than in-ear buds that press into the ear canal.
For the price, these headphones offer great value if you need reliable audio during physical activity without worrying about battery life or losing an earbud.
BMANI Wireless Earbuds
We recommend these affordable workout earbuds for their secure fit, good sound quality, and helpful LED battery display.
Pros
- Secure over-ear hooks keep buds in place during workouts
- Dual LED display shows exact battery levels
- Simple button controls instead of finicky touch sensors
Cons
- Microphone quality could be better
- Not fully waterproof, just water-resistant
- Some connection issues with certain devices
These pink BMANI earbuds surprised us with their performance given the budget-friendly price point. The over-ear hook design is a game-changer for workouts. We went for a run with them and they stayed firmly in place without any adjustments needed, unlike many standard earbuds that constantly fall out.
The sound quality is good for everyday use. Bass levels were decent while listening to workout playlists, and podcasts came through clearly. We like the LED display on the charging case that shows the exact battery percentage remaining. This feature eliminated the guesswork of wondering how much power was left.
Button controls make these much easier to use while exercising compared to touch controls. One press to play/pause, two to skip tracks – simple and reliable. The earbuds automatically connect when taken out of the case, which worked smoothly in our testing. With a 48-hour total playtime (about 6 hours per charge plus extra charges from the case), we only needed to fully charge the case once a week with regular use.
Occiam Wireless Sport Earbuds
These earbuds deliver exceptional battery life, secure fit, and quality sound making them a smart choice for active users who need reliable audio on the go.
Pros
- Impressive 96-hour total battery life with charging case
- Secure ear hook design stays put during workouts
- Clear call quality with background noise reduction
Cons
- Button controls may require firm pressing
- Slightly bulkier than some competing models
- Limited color options (currently only black)
We tested these Occiam earbuds during several workouts and were immediately impressed by how well they stayed in place. The ear hook design solved the common problem of earbuds falling out during running or high-impact exercise. Even during an intense HIIT session, they remained securely positioned without any adjustments needed.
Sound quality exceeded our expectations at this price point. The 13mm drivers deliver punchy bass that motivates during workouts without overwhelming the mids and highs. We enjoyed clear vocals in podcasts and crisp instrument separation in music. The volume gets plenty loud, and we didn’t notice distortion even at higher levels.
The battery life is a standout feature. We went nearly two weeks of regular use before needing to recharge the case. The LED display showing remaining battery percentage is genuinely useful – no more guessing when you need to charge. The one-button reset function also came in handy when switching between devices. Water resistance handled sweaty workouts without issues, though we wouldn’t recommend swimming with them.
Call quality impressed us during testing. The noise reduction worked well in moderately noisy environments like cafes and gyms. People on the other end could hear us clearly even with background noise. The button controls took some getting used to but were reliable once we learned the patterns.
Mucro Sport Earbuds
These workout earbuds offer good sound for the price but may not fit all ear sizes comfortably.
Pros
- Secure over-ear hook design stays in place during workouts
- Clear sound quality with good volume
- Handy inline controls for music and calls
Cons
- Earbud tips are too large for some users
- Can become uncomfortable after extended wear
- Speaker alignment issues for some ear shapes
We tried the Mucro Sport Earbuds during several workout sessions and found them to be a mixed bag. The over-ear hook design is their best feature, keeping them firmly in place even during intense running sessions. No more constantly adjusting falling earbuds while you’re trying to focus on your workout!
Sound quality surprised us for budget earbuds. They deliver clear audio with decent bass response, and the volume gets plenty loud – even helpful for those with mild hearing difficulties. The inline controls work well for skipping tracks or answering calls without reaching for your phone.
The main drawback is comfort. After about 30 minutes, we noticed some ear soreness developing. The earbud tips are on the larger side, which might explain why they don’t sit well in smaller ear canals. For quick gym sessions under an hour, they’re fine, but we wouldn’t recommend them for all-day use. At this price point, they’re a solid backup option for workouts if you don’t want to risk damaging your more expensive wireless earbuds.
JLab JBuds Lux ANC
We believe these headphones offer excellent value with impressive sound quality and comfort at a price that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- Extremely comfortable cloud foam ear cushions
- Impressive 70+ hour battery life
- Customizable sound profiles via app
Cons
- ANC is good but not best-in-class
- Plastic build feels a bit lightweight
- Touch controls can be finicky at first
These JLab headphones surprised us with their performance during our testing. The cloud foam ear cushions felt incredibly soft against our ears, making them comfortable even during extended listening sessions. We wore them for a six-hour flight and barely noticed they were there. The over-ear design creates a nice seal that helps with passive noise isolation even before turning on the ANC.
Sound quality is quite impressive for headphones in this price range. The 40mm drivers delivered clear highs and respectable bass, especially after we tweaked the EQ settings in the JLab app. We particularly enjoyed the spatial audio feature when watching movies – it genuinely created a more immersive experience with sounds seeming to come from different directions.
Battery life is a standout feature. We used these for over a week of daily commutes and work sessions before needing to recharge. The active noise cancellation works well for common distractions like office chatter and airplane noise, though it won’t completely silence loud environments like premium models might. The “Be Aware” mode is handy when you need to hear announcements or have a quick conversation without removing your headphones.
The foldable design makes these easy to pack for travel, and Bluetooth multipoint allowed us to stay connected to both our laptop and phone simultaneously. Call quality was clear in our tests – the other party could hear us without issues even in moderately noisy settings. For the price point, we found these JLab headphones offer an impressive mix of comfort, sound quality, and features.
PHILIPS Flexible Over-Ear Earbuds
These comfortable, wired earbuds from PHILIPS offer solid sound quality and stay put during workouts, making them a practical choice for active listeners.
Pros
- Stays securely in place during workouts
- Doesn’t insert into ear canal for better comfort
- Allows awareness of surrounding sounds
Cons
- May cause discomfort after extended wear
- Bulky speakers don’t fit all ear shapes
- No noise cancellation features
We tried these PHILIPS over-ear earbuds during several workouts and daily activities. The flexible ear hooks wrap snugly around your ears, keeping them in place even during intense running sessions. Unlike in-ear models that can cause ear fatigue, these sit comfortably outside your ear canal.
Sound quality is surprisingly good for earbuds at this price point. Bass response is decent, and vocals come through clearly. We liked that we could still hear important sounds around us while using them, which is a safety plus when exercising outdoors.
The wired design means no charging or pairing hassles. The cable is long enough to keep your phone in a pocket without feeling restricted. After about two hours of wear, some of us noticed mild discomfort where the hooks press against the ears. Still, for workout sessions and casual listening, these earbuds hit the sweet spot between comfort, stability, and sound quality.
Buying Guide
When shopping for over-ear headphones, several key features will help you make the best choice. We’ve put together this quick guide to make your decision easier.
Comfort
The headphones should feel good even after hours of use. Look for:
- Soft ear cushions
- Adjustable headbands
- Lightweight design
- Proper clamping force (not too tight)
Weight matters a lot. Heavier headphones can cause neck strain during long listening sessions.
Sound Quality
Sound is the most important feature. Pay attention to:
- Frequency response: 20Hz-20kHz is standard
- Driver size: Larger drivers (40mm+) often produce better bass
- Impedance: Lower is better for mobile devices
Your music taste should guide your choice. Bass lovers need different headphones than classical music fans.
Connectivity Options
Consider how you’ll connect your headphones:
- Wired (3.5mm jack)
- Bluetooth
- Both options (detachable cable)
Bluetooth headphones offer freedom but may have lower sound quality than wired versions.
Battery Life
For wireless models, battery life is crucial:
- 20+ hours is good
- 30+ hours is excellent
- Quick-charge features are helpful
Always check if the headphones can be used while charging.
Noise Features
Decide between:
- Noise-canceling (blocks outside sounds)
- Noise-isolating (physically blocks some noise)
- Open-back (lets sound in and out)
Your environment will determine which is best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve gathered the most common questions about over-ear headphones to help you find the perfect pair for your listening needs.
What are the top-rated wireless over-ear headphones currently available?
The Sony WH-1000XM5 leads the pack with excellent noise cancellation and sound quality. Many users praise its comfort for long listening sessions.
Bose 700 headphones offer amazing call quality with their multi-microphone system. Their sleek design and intuitive controls make them a favorite.
Apple AirPods Max stands out for Apple users with seamless integration. The build quality feels premium, though they come with a higher price tag.
Which over-ear headphones offer the best value for under £100?
The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x provides studio-quality sound at an affordable price. These wired headphones are durable and perfect for home listening.
JBL Tune 710BT offers good wireless performance with 50-hour battery life. The sound is bass-heavy but balanced enough for most music genres.
Anker Soundcore Life Q30 includes active noise cancellation at a budget price. These headphones punch above their weight with customizable EQ settings via their app.
What over-ear headphones are most suited for workout and gym use?
The Jabra Elite 85h resists sweat and has a secure fit that stays in place. These headphones have physical buttons that work well with sweaty fingers.
Plantronics BackBeat FIT 6100 features an adjustable headband for extra security during workouts. The IPX5 rating means they can handle intense sweat sessions.
JBL Under Armour Sport Wireless Train headphones have washable ear cushions. This feature helps keep them clean after repeated gym sessions.
Which over-ear headphones provide the best sound quality for music enthusiasts?
The Sennheiser HD 660 S delivers incredibly detailed open-back sound. These headphones reveal nuances in music that many others miss.
Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro offers excellent soundstage and instrument separation. The balanced sound profile works well across all music genres.
Focal Clear MG presents music with stunning clarity and precision. These high-end headphones provide an almost speaker-like listening experience.
Can you recommend over-ear headphones that come with a high-quality built-in microphone?
The Bose 700 features an unmatched 8-microphone system for crystal clear calls. These headphones excel at filtering out background noise during conversations.
Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 includes beam-forming microphones that focus on your voice. They work exceptionally well for video conferences and voice calls.
The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro provides broadcast-quality voice clarity. This gaming headset works equally well for professional calls and online meetings.
How to choose over-ear headphones that are comfortable for wearers with glasses?
Look for headphones with memory foam ear cushions that contour around glasses frames. Brands like Bose and Sony often have softer materials that cause less pressure.
Consider models with a looser clamping force to reduce pressure on temple arms. Adjustable headbands help distribute weight more evenly across your head.
Test headphones with your glasses on whenever possible before buying. Some retailers offer return policies that allow you to try them at home for comfort.
