If you’re looking for the best over-ear headphones of 2025, I’ve got you covered. I’ve reviewed top options like the Bose QuietComfort, Sony WH-1000XM5, and Beats Studio Pro, which offer superior sound, active noise cancellation, and all-day comfort. Whether you prioritize battery life, style, or sound customization, there’s a perfect pair for you. Keep exploring, and you’ll discover detailed insights to help you make the best choice.
Key Takeaways
- The top headphones of 2025 feature industry-leading noise cancellation technology, including hybrid and adaptive modes for superior sound isolation.
- Premium models like Sony WH-1000XM4 and Bose QuietComfort offer exceptional comfort with plush ear cushions and lightweight designs for long-term wear.
- Long battery life is a key focus, with many headphones providing over 30 hours of playback and quick-charging capabilities.
- Customizable sound profiles and high-resolution audio enhance listening experience across various models.
- Stylish designs and portability make these over-ear headphones suitable for travel, work, and everyday use.
Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones, Wireless Noise Cancelling Over Ear with Mic
If you’re looking for a reliable pair of over-ear headphones that excel in noise cancellation and comfort, the Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones are an excellent choice. I love their plush ear cushions and lightweight design, making long listening sessions comfortable. They offer active and passive sound isolation, blocking out most external noise, and feature modern controls via push buttons. With Bluetooth 5.1, I enjoy a stable connection within a 30-foot range. Plus, their sleek style and included protective case make them perfect for both travel and daily use. Overall, these headphones deliver exceptional sound quality and comfort, making them a top pick.
Best For: audiophiles and travelers seeking premium noise cancellation, comfort, and versatile wireless connectivity for all-day listening.
Pros:
- Exceptional noise cancellation technology that effectively blocks external sounds
- Comfortable plush ear cushions and lightweight design suitable for extended wear
- Long battery life of up to 24 hours with quick charging capabilities
Cons:
- Some users may find the white noise enhancement for noise cancellation intrusive
- Limited color options, with Blue Dusk as a restricted edition
- Price point may be higher compared to basic or less feature-rich headphones
Beats Studio Pro Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones
The Beats Studio Pro Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones stand out for their exceptional combination of sound quality and comfort, making them an ideal choice for anyone who values immersive audio during long listening sessions. Their sleek, stylish design features plush faux leather ear cups and an adjustable headband, ensuring a comfortable fit without fatigue. Weighing just 9.2 ounces, they’re lightweight and foldable for portability in the included snug woven case. Equipped with Beats’ custom acoustic platform, they deliver rich, balanced sound with personalized spatial audio and multiple sound profiles. Active noise cancellation rivals premium models, and the quick Bluetooth 5.3 connection makes them versatile for daily use across various devices.
Best For: audiophiles and frequent travelers seeking premium sound quality and comfort in a stylish, portable design.
Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality with rich, balanced audio and personalized spatial sound
- Comfortable, lightweight over-ear design suitable for long listening sessions
- Seamless Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity with quick pairing and device switching
Cons:
- Snug case may be challenging to remove headphones from
- Occasional Bluetooth connection issues when switching devices
- Not water-resistant, limiting use in outdoor or workout environments
Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Headphones with Active Noise Cancelling
For travelers and daily commuters seeking premium noise reduction without breaking the bank, the Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Headphones with Active Noise Cancelling stand out as an excellent choice. Over 20 million users love their custom 40 mm drivers, delivering Hi-Res audio with incredible clarity up to 40 kHz. The hybrid noise cancellation reduces ambient noise by up to 90%, thanks to four microphones and extensive testing. With up to 60 hours of playback and a quick 5-minute charge for four hours, they’re perfect for long trips. Comfortable foam ear cups and portable design make them ideal for extended wear, whether commuting or working.
Best For: travelers and daily commuters seeking premium noise reduction, long battery life, and comfortable fit without a high price.
Pros:
- Exceptional hybrid active noise cancellation reduces ambient noise by up to 90%
- Impressive 60-hour battery life with quick 5-minute charge for 4 hours of listening
- Comfortable foam ear cups designed for extended wear during travel or work
Cons:
- May lack advanced customization features found in higher-end headphones
- Plastic build might feel less premium compared to luxury models
- Limited to Bluetooth connectivity with included accessories, which may not suit all devices
JBL Tune 720BT Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
Looking for headphones that combine impressive sound quality with all-day comfort? The JBL Tune 720BT offers JBL’s renowned Pure Bass Sound, perfect for immersive listening. You can easily customize your sound with the free JBL Headphones App, choosing preset EQ modes or creating your own. Thanks to Bluetooth 5.3, they deliver a stable, high-quality wireless connection, and with up to 76 hours of playback, you won’t need to recharge often. Their lightweight, foldable design ensures comfort during long listening sessions or travel. Plus, intuitive controls and Voice Aware technology make managing calls simple, making these headphones a versatile choice for everyday use.
Best For: those seeking high-quality wireless headphones with customizable sound, long-lasting battery life, and comfortable design for daily use and travel.
Pros:
- Delivers renowned JBL Pure Bass Sound for immersive listening experience
- Up to 76 hours of playback with quick recharge capabilities
- Lightweight, foldable design for comfort and portability
Cons:
- May lack advanced noise-canceling features found in higher-end models
- Customization options require downloading the JBL Headphones App, which might not be preferred by all users
- The over-ear design might not suit those who prefer in-ear or on-ear styles
Sony WH-CH720N Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones with Microphone and Alexa
If you prioritize long-lasting battery life and a comfortable, portable design for everyday use, the Sony WH-CH720N noise-canceling wireless headphones stand out as a practical choice. Weighing only 192 grams, they’re Sony’s lightest wireless noise-canceling model, with over-ear cups and metal accents that emphasize portability. While the ergonomic design offers comfort, some users with larger ears or glasses find the cushions tight, and the microphone protrusions can cause discomfort. They deliver up to 35 hours of battery life, quick charging, and easy Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity. Ideal for casual listening and travel, they balance sound quality, noise cancellation, and convenience at an appealing price point.
Best For: casual listeners and travelers seeking lightweight, long-lasting noise-canceling headphones with good sound quality and comfort.
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable design weighing only 192g, ideal for daily use and travel
- Long battery life of up to 35 hours with quick charging capabilities
- Effective active noise cancellation suitable for casual environments
Cons:
- Comfort may be compromised for users with larger ears or glasses due to tight cushions
- Microphone protrusions can cause discomfort during extended wear
- Noise cancellation performance may not satisfy audiophiles seeking premium quality
Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones with Mic and Voice Control
The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones stand out as an excellent choice for those seeking industry-leading noise cancellation combined with seamless voice control. I find their active noise cancellation with Dual Noise Sensor technology remarkably effective, rivaling top models like the AirPods Max. The over-ear design with soft foam ear pads offers exceptional comfort for long listening sessions, though the headband can cause pressure after hours. They support Bluetooth 5.0 with a 10-meter range, and their 30-hour battery life is impressive, especially with quick 10-minute charging. Features like Speak-to-Chat, multipoint connectivity, and touch controls make them versatile and user-friendly, perfect for music, calls, and entertainment.
Best For: audiophiles and frequent travelers seeking top-tier noise cancellation and long-lasting comfort for extended listening sessions.
Pros:
- Industry-leading active noise cancellation with Dual Noise Sensor technology
- Long 30-hour battery life with quick 10-minute charging for 5 hours of playback
- Comfortable over-ear design with soft foam ear pads suitable for long wear
Cons:
- Slightly bulky and can cause pressure on the head after long hours of use
- Plastic build quality may feel less premium to some users
- Physical controls and app interface can be less intuitive or have minor quirks
JLab JBuds Lux ANC Wireless Headphones
Designed for audiophiles and commuters alike, the JLab JBuds Lux ANC Wireless Headphones stand out with their smart active noise cancellation that dynamically adapts to your environment. The 40mm drivers deliver lab-quality sound with impressive depth and clarity, enhanced by Spatial Audio compatible with Dolby Atmos and other tech. You can customize sound profiles via the JLab App, including Bass Boost and Balance. With up to 70 hours of playtime and Bluetooth Multipoint, they’re perfect for long rides or work. The ergonomic design features comfortable Cloud Foam cushions and foldable earcups, making them portable and ideal for travel or daily use.
Best For: audiophiles and commuters seeking premium sound quality, customizable audio, and long-lasting comfort in a portable wireless headphone.
Pros:
- Exceptional 40mm drivers deliver lab-quality sound with immersive depth and clarity.
- Smart Active Noise Cancellation dynamically adjusts to environment, up to 35 dB noise reduction.
- Over 70 hours of battery life and Bluetooth Multipoint for seamless multi-device connection.
Cons:
- May be bulkier than compact earbuds, affecting portability for some users.
- Price point might be higher compared to basic wireless headphones.
- Requires the JLab App for full customization, which may not appeal to all users.
Soundcore Q20i Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
For travelers and commuters who need to block out noise without sacrificing awareness of their surroundings, the Soundcore Q20i Active Noise Cancelling Headphones offer an excellent solution. They use hybrid noise cancellation with multiple microphones to reduce up to 90% of external sounds, making noisy environments much more manageable. When you need to stay alert, Transparency mode lets you hear your surroundings clearly. The oversized 40mm drivers deliver rich sound and deep bass, with customizable EQ options via the Soundcore app. With up to 40 hours of battery life, quick charging, and Bluetooth 5.0 for seamless device switching, these headphones combine comfort, convenience, and impressive sound quality.
Best For: travelers and commuters seeking active noise cancellation with awareness of their surroundings and customizable sound options.
Pros:
- Effective hybrid noise cancelling reduces up to 90% of external sounds, making noisy environments more manageable
- Long battery life of up to 40 hours with fast charging for extended use
- Seamless Bluetooth 5.0 connection supports dual-device pairing and effortless switching
Cons:
- Over-ear design may feel bulky for some users during extended wear
- Requires the Soundcore app for full customization, which may not be ideal for all users
- Transparency mode, while useful, may not fully replicate real-world sound clarity for some listeners
JBL Tune 770NC Wireless Over-Ear Headphones with Noise Cancelling
If you’re seeking headphones that combine long-lasting battery life with versatile noise cancellation, the JBL Tune 770NC is an excellent choice. These lightweight, foldable headphones weigh just 8.2 ounces, making them comfortable for extended wear during travel, work, or workouts. They offer up to 70 hours of playback on a full charge, with a quick 5-minute charge providing about 3 hours of listening. The adaptive noise cancelling effectively blocks out external sounds, while Smart Ambient modes let you hear your surroundings when needed. With customizable sound profiles via the JBL app and easy controls, these headphones deliver both convenience and high-quality audio.
Best For: users seeking long-lasting battery life, versatile noise cancellation, and comfortable, portable headphones for travel, work, or workouts.
Pros:
- Up to 70 hours of continuous playback with quick charging support
- Effective adaptive noise cancelling and Smart Ambient modes for versatile listening environments
- Customizable sound profiles via the JBL app and easy physical controls for convenience
Cons:
- Ear cushions may be slightly small for some users, potentially causing soreness after long wear
- No headphone jack included, which may limit wired connectivity options
- External microphones can leak sound at lower noise cancellation levels
BERIBES Wireless Over-Ear Bluetooth Headphones with Microphone
Looking for headphones that deliver exceptional sound quality and all-day comfort? The BERIBES Wireless Over-Ear Bluetooth Headphones with Microphone might be your perfect match. They feature dual 40mm dynamic sound units and six EQ modes, including bass boost and balanced sound, catering to various music tastes. With over 65 hours of playback from a 500mAh battery and a wired option via the included 3.5mm cable, you won’t run out of listening time. Lightweight at just 0.38 pounds, they offer a snug fit with soft memory earmuffs and an adjustable headband. Quick Bluetooth 5.3 pairing guarantees stable connection, making them ideal for daily use.
Best For: audiophiles and daily commuters seeking premium sound quality, long-lasting battery life, and comfortable fit in wireless headphones.
Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality with dual 40mm drivers and customizable EQ modes
- Over 65 hours of playback and a wired option for continuous listening
- Lightweight, adjustable, and comfortable for extended wear with soft memory earmuffs
Cons:
- May be bulkier compared to in-ear or smaller wireless headphones
- Limited color options and style variations
- Requires charging, which might be inconvenient during extended use without access to power
Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless Bluetooth Headphones
The Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless Bluetooth Headphones stand out for their powerful bass technology, making them an ideal choice for audiophiles who crave deep, explosive sound. They feature noise-isolating over-ear fit with plush memory foam cushions, ensuring comfort during long listening sessions. The foldable design boosts portability, while the durable faux leather and plastic build keep them lightweight at about 1.56 pounds. Equipped with adjustable Crusher Bass, full-range drivers, and Bluetooth 5, they deliver crisp highs and rich lows. The headphones include a protective case, extra cables, and controls via app and physical buttons for volume, tracks, and calls.
Best For: audiophiles and bass enthusiasts seeking powerful, immersive sound with long-lasting comfort for entertainment, gaming, and travel.
Pros:
- Exceptional deep bass with adjustable Crusher Bass technology for a customizable experience
- Comfortable over-ear fit with plush memory foam cushions suitable for extended listening sessions
- Long battery life of up to 40 hours plus rapid charging for minimal downtime
Cons:
- No active noise cancellation, relying solely on noise isolation through seal and bass enhancement
- Some users report distortion at maximum volume or artificial bass effects
- App features and controls may be limited compared to higher-end models
Sony WH-1000XM5 Noise Cancelling Headphones
For those who prioritize top-tier noise cancellation and seamless wireless performance, the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones stand out as a leading choice in 2025. Their advanced noise cancellation employs two processors and eight microphones, creating an immersive, distraction-free listening experience. Bluetooth connectivity ensures smooth, interruption-free wireless audio. With four beamforming microphones and sophisticated processing, call quality is crystal clear, even in noisy environments. The headphones boast up to 30 hours of battery life, with a quick 3-minute charge delivering three hours of playback. Designed for comfort, they feature lightweight construction, soft leather, and intuitive touch controls, making them perfect for long listening sessions.
Best For: audiophiles and professionals seeking premium noise cancellation and seamless wireless performance for long listening sessions.
Pros:
- Exceptional noise cancellation powered by dual processors and eight microphones for immersive sound.
- Up to 30 hours of battery life with rapid 3-minute charging for extended use.
- Comfortable lightweight design with soft leather and intuitive touch controls for all-day wear.
Cons:
- Premium price point may be a barrier for budget-conscious consumers.
- Touch controls can sometimes be less precise or accidental during movement.
- Limited customization options for sound profiles compared to some competitors.
Soundcore Space One Noise Cancelling Headphones
If you want headphones that excel in noise cancellation and long-lasting comfort, the Soundcore Space One Noise Cancelling Headphones are an excellent choice. They feature active noise cancellation that blocks up to 98% of external noise, with adaptive tech that auto-calibrates for peak performance. Designed for comfort, they have soft, rotating ear cups, an integrated headband, and weigh just 259 grams, making them perfect for extended wear. The 40mm drivers support Hi-Res audio, and Bluetooth 5.3 ensures a stable connection. With up to 40 hours of ANC playback, quick recharge, and multipoint pairing, these headphones deliver impressive value for travel, work, or leisure.
Best For: those seeking high-quality noise cancellation, long-lasting comfort, and versatile connectivity for travel, work, or casual listening.
Pros:
- Effective active noise cancellation blocking up to 98% of external noise
- Comfortable fit with lightweight design and soft, rotating ear cups for extended wear
- Supports Hi-Res wireless audio with LDAC and multipoint Bluetooth pairing for seamless device switching
Cons:
- Not water-resistant, limiting use during workouts or outdoor activities in rain
- Can become warm after long periods of use, potentially reducing comfort
- Charging time is around 40 hours, which may be lengthy for quick top-ups
TAGRY Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones with 100H Playtime
With an impressive 100 hours of playback on a single charge, TAGRY Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones are perfect for travelers and extended use. Their advanced noise cancellation reduces ambient noise by up to 95%, blocking out subway, plane, or busy office sounds. They deliver Hi-Res audio with punchy bass and clear vocals, providing an energetic listening experience. The headphones support seamless Bluetooth and wired connections, with easy controls for ANC, volume, and calls. Lightweight at just 0.54 lbs, they’re comfortable for long wear, and their foldable design makes them portable. Overall, they combine long battery life, effective noise reduction, and versatility for all-day listening.
Best For: travelers, commuters, and long-hour listeners seeking high-quality sound, effective noise cancellation, and extended battery life in a lightweight, portable design.
Pros:
- Up to 100 hours of playback per charge, ideal for extended use and travel
- Advanced noise cancellation reduces ambient noise by up to 95% for immersive listening
- Lightweight (0.54 lbs) with comfortable ear cups and foldable design for all-day comfort and portability
Cons:
- Occasional static or high-pitched whirs when ANC is activated in noisy environments
- Fit may be less comfortable for users with smaller heads or ears
- Lacks a dedicated mute button, relying on device software for muting functions
Factors to Consider When Choosing Over Ear Headphones
When choosing over-ear headphones, I look at sound quality and comfort to make certain I enjoy long listening sessions. I also consider noise cancellation and battery life because they impact how versatile and convenient they are. Finally, connectivity options matter to guarantee I can easily connect with my devices without hassle.
Sound Quality Balance
Achieving a balanced sound quality in over-ear headphones means delivering clear vocals, crisp highs, and deep bass without any one frequency overpowering the others. High-fidelity drivers and customizable EQ settings allow me to fine-tune sound profiles to match my preferences, ensuring an optimal balance. A wide frequency response range, typically from 20Hz to 20kHz or higher, guarantees accurate reproduction of both low and high tones, creating a harmonious listening experience. Good sound balance also minimizes distortion at higher volumes, keeping clarity intact and reducing listener fatigue during long sessions. Advanced audio processing technologies like digital signal processing (DSP) further enhance natural, well-rounded sound profiles. Overall, a well-balanced sound profile is essential for truly immersive listening, regardless of music genre or source.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort and fit play a vital role in getting the most out of over-ear headphones. A well-designed pair should have plush, soft ear cushions and an adjustable headband to guarantee a secure yet comfortable fit during long listening sessions. Proper fit minimizes pressure on your ears and head, reducing fatigue and discomfort. It’s important that the design can accommodate different head sizes and ear shapes; some models include adjustable or rotatable ear cups for a personalized fit. Lightweight construction, ideally under 10 ounces, prevents strain and allows for all-day wear. Additionally, consider padding and materials that prevent heat buildup and sweating, especially if you wear them for extended periods or during physical activities. Comfort truly enhances the listening experience.
Noise Cancellation Effectiveness
Choosing over-ear headphones with effective noise cancellation hinges on understanding how well they can block out ambient sounds. Noise cancellation is measured by how much external noise the headphones reduce, often expressed as a percentage or decibel reduction. The number and quality of microphones, especially beamforming microphones, play a pivotal role—they pick up ambient sounds to cancel them out. Advanced noise-canceling algorithms and processors, like dual or multiple units, improve precision and adapt to changing environments. Some models can cancel up to 98% of external noise, while others achieve 70-80%. Features like adaptive noise cancellation automatically adjust based on surroundings, ensuring consistent performance. When choosing, consider these factors to find headphones that truly minimize distractions for a superior listening experience.
Battery Life Duration
A key factor when selecting over-ear headphones is their battery life, as it determines how long you can enjoy music without interruptions. Longer battery life means you can listen for extended periods without needing to recharge, which is especially helpful during travel or all-day use. Most high-capacity models offer between 20 and 40 hours of playback, with some reaching up to 60 hours or more on a single charge. Quick charge features are also common, giving you several hours of listening after just a few minutes of charging—great for busy days. Keep in mind, battery longevity can decline over time, so consider how practical replacement or recharge cycles are for your usage. Remember, actual listening time varies depending on volume, noise cancellation, and additional features.
Connectivity Options
Connectivity options play a crucial role in guaranteeing your headphones fit seamlessly into your daily routine. Wireless Bluetooth is common, with versions from 4.0 to 5.3, influencing range and stability. Many models support multipoint pairing, letting you connect to multiple devices at once for easy switching. Wired options like 3.5mm jacks or USB-C ports are also available, offering reliable connection when batteries run out or low latency is needed. Wireless range varies from about 10 meters to over 100 meters, depending on Bluetooth version and environment. Compatibility with devices like smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktops depends on supported Bluetooth profiles and codecs such as SBC, AAC, aptX, or LDAC. Choosing the right connectivity ensures your headphones integrate smoothly into your tech ecosystem.
Portability and Design
When selecting over-ear headphones, portability and design are crucial factors that can make or break your experience, especially if you’re frequently on the move. Look for models with foldable or collapsible structures, making them easy to store and carry. Lightweight construction, often under 10 ounces, ensures comfort during long wear and reduces fatigue while traveling. Many headphones come with compact cases or protective pouches to prevent damage when packed in bags or luggage. Materials like durable plastics and hinge mechanisms enhance portability without sacrificing build quality. The size and shape of ear cups and headbands also matter; smaller, ergonomic designs fit easily into bags and are more convenient for different activities. Prioritizing these features allows you to enjoy great sound without sacrificing convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Over-Ear Headphones Impact Long-Term Listening Comfort?
Over-ear headphones can substantially impact long-term listening comfort if they fit well and have plush padding. I find that models with adjustable headbands and breathable ear cushions reduce pressure and heat buildup, making extended use more enjoyable. It’s important to choose headphones that distribute weight evenly and don’t clamp too tightly. Proper fit and quality materials are key to avoiding discomfort during prolonged listening sessions.
Are There Health Risks Associated With Noise-Canceling Headphones?
Did you know that prolonged exposure to loud noise can cause permanent hearing loss? Noise-canceling headphones are generally safe if used responsibly. However, I advise you to keep the volume at a moderate level and take regular breaks. Avoid listening at maximum volume for long periods. Being mindful of your hearing health guarantees you enjoy your favorite tunes without risking long-term damage.
How Does Bluetooth Connectivity Affect Audio Quality?
Bluetooth connectivity can impact audio quality, but modern codecs like aptX and LDAC help maintain sound clarity and detail. I’ve noticed that when I use high-quality codecs, the audio feels almost wired, with richer bass and sharper highs. However, lower-quality connections or older Bluetooth versions might introduce compression or latency. Overall, choosing headphones with advanced Bluetooth codecs ensures you get the best possible sound wirelessly.
Can Over-Ear Headphones Be Used During Exercise or Sports?
Absolutely, over-ear headphones can be used during exercise or sports, but it’s a bit like trying to wear a crown during a storm—they need to be secure and sweat-resistant. I recommend models designed for activity, with snug fit and moisture resistance. They offer great sound, but if you’re doing intense cardio, consider sports-specific earbuds—they stay put better and handle sweat more effectively.
What Are the Best Maintenance Tips to Prolong Headphone Lifespan?
To keep my headphones lasting longer, I always store them properly in a case when not in use and avoid pulling on the cables. I clean the ear cups and headbands regularly with a soft, damp cloth and avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or moisture. Additionally, I turn them off when not in use and handle them gently to prevent damage, ensuring they stay in top shape for years.
Conclusion
Choosing the right over-ear headphones is like finding the perfect pair of shoes — they should feel just right and support you through every step. After testing countless models, I realized that quality sound and comfort aren’t just luxuries but essentials for everyday enjoyment. Think of your headphones as a cozy sanctuary for your ears, transforming mundane moments into immersive experiences. So, trust your instincts, and let these top picks elevate your listening journey.
