Best over ear headphones-Ear Headphones

Over-ear headphones totally encase your ears, allowing you to be immersed in sound. They are usually designed for audiophiles and come with features such as active noise cancellation and control apps.

The Focal Bathys are a wireless pair with ANC and a mobile app to adjust the EQ and presets. They also support high-res audio via USB-C for wired listening.

Sony WH-1000XM5

The WH-1000XM5 headphones from Sony are the latest addition to their top-of-the-line noise cancellation line-up. They sport a new design, improved ANC and a host of the same features that their predecessors had but with premium materials and slightly more premium sound quality.

They're light for over-ear ANC headphones, with 250g. They're extremely comfortable to wear, even if you're reading or listening to the audiobook. The headband features a friction rod design, similar to the Grado Labs SR60x, which keeps your ears from getting too cold.

With an audio quality that is able to please casual music listeners and serious audiophiles, Bluetooth the WH1000XM5's sound signature is tuned to have a slight focus on bass but is not excessively loud or harsh. They feature a wide and open soundstage with excellent instrument separation that allows you to hear subtleties in your music. The earcups also have control buttons that are easy to use. You can swipe forward to access the next track, reverse to listen to the previous one and then up and down to control the volume. The headphones can be connected to two devices simultaneously and will automatically stop playback when you remove them from your head, thanks to the built-in sensor. You can activate ambient mode by placing your palm on the right earcup. This lets you listen to the sounds around you without having to remove the headphones.

Other features that are useful include the ability to pair them with your voice assistant, Bluetooth low-energy, and support for hi-res audio (via LDAC). They come with a durable carrying case made from premium fabric and an USB-C cable for charging. The headphones are compatible with the majority of Android and iOS smartphones and computers operating Windows and macOS. The battery life of the WH-1000XM5 is exceptional. In our standard test we were able to achieve 31 hours and 53 minutes when the ANC turned on which is much better than Sony's advertised battery duration of 30 hours.

The WH-1000XM5's microphone quality for calls is exceptional, and there's no muffled or static-y audio in the background. Noise cancelling is also excellent and Bluetooth these headphones are perfect for public transportation and the office.

Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2

The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 S2 is a significant upgrade from its predecessor, providing top-quality performance and features. This includes 24-bit wireless streaming and optimized active noise cancellation, and clear voice call quality on any compatible mobile phone or tablet. Its custom-designed 40mm drivers are carefully angled inside each earcup to provide an enhanced, more immersive listening experience. Six strategically placed microphones guarantee exceptional call clarity even in noisy environments. A remote inline and microphone lets you control your calls and music on any device compatible with it.

The headphones have a sleek and refined look to the original PX7. They have accent rings that wrap around the earcups as well as a silver sheen for the headband. The earcups are cushioned using memory foam and fit comfortably on the cranium, yet they never feel tight. The new design and shape was developed over the course of several months, and delivers a comfortable clamping pressure that isn't too hard on my rotund skull.

They weigh 2 ounces less (or 307g) and a little thinner than the Sony WH1000XM5. They're light enough to carry in your bag or backpack without any discomfort, and will remain comfortably in place during long listens. A sturdy hinge on the back of the headband lets you to fold them up for easy transport in an enclosed case.

They're powered by Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX Adaptive support which is ideal for high-resolution audio and tight video sync. The 3.5mm cord connects to the USB-C port on the right earcup. The status indicator on the earphone is a nice touch. It flashes green to indicate rapid charging, and solid blue to signal Bluetooth pairing.

The B&W app provides the same features as the buttons on the hardware such as bass and treble adjustments as well as action button assignment wear detection, a cycle through ANC modes and much more. The app also shows an album cover and track's title when you play music from your iPhone. However, popular extras like music presets or soundscapes feature are not available.

Sennheiser HD 800 S

The HD 800 S is a successor to the legendary Sennheiser headphones, and is designed to meet the most demanding expectations. Its engineering was designed to provide stunning detail resolution that encompasses the entire frequency spectrum, dynamic range and stereo panorama. It's the most realistic audio you'll hear on headphones with open backs.

The headphone has an impedance of 300 ohms, which means it requires a top-quality headphone amplifier that can drive it at the desired levels without distortion. A balanced connection is recommended, because it will increase the power output and enhance the overall sound quality.

These headphones are designed to be used by professionals and have a sturdy metal frame with a mix of leather and plastic. The design is minimalist and doesn't look extravagant however the quality of the headphones and their build are top-quality. They come with a carrying case, an extra audio cable, and a 1/4" to 1-/8" adapter.

The HD 800 S has a neutral sound that reproduces vocals and instruments with a natural sound, even however they are less bass-y. The open-back design creates a wide, out-of-head soundstage. The treble is very good with minor drops and peaks. The treble area is very linear, so you shouldn't have any issues cutting sibilants, or the upper sound of the drum snare.

Despite the lack of a high-pitched bass, they still produce a punch and dynamism when it is needed. They'll still be enjoyable for those who love listening to rock music with powerful basslines, but they may not be as enjoyable as some of the models on this list such as the HiFiMan Arya.

These Sennheiser headphones have a great mid-range. They are very linear and have a slight scoop in the upper mids, which should not be noticeable to the majority of listeners. They also can reproduce fine time gradations, which is a nice bonus.

The HD 800 S are a pair exceptional headphones, perfect for audiophiles and professionals. Their exceptional sound quality and comfortable fit make them an excellent option. The headphones are costly, however they will last for years and perform well in any situation.

Anker Soundcore Life Q20

The Anker Soundcore Q20 is a good pair of headphones for those looking to pass the time or simply need a pair of affordable noise cancelling headphones. They come with a basic bag that will give them some protection when you toss them in a bag and their battery can last many long-haul flights. The ANC can effectively block out noisy passengers and engine rumbles. However, their audio profile is a bit warmer and bass-heavy.

The Life Q20's controls are simple to navigate and well-marked. On the left ear cup you'll find buttons for powering up and pairing the headphones and for turning on or off active noise cancellation. On the right earcup, you'll find controls for playback of media. This includes a multi-function control that activates your phone's voice assistance and switches on Anker BassUp (more about that later). You can also utilize the built-in microphone in order to make calls without hands your phone.

Anker's Soundcore Life Q20 headphones provide a rich and immersive listening experience due to the custom 40 mm dynamic drivers that provide certified Hi-Res Audio. With a treble that stretches up to 40 kHz, these headphones offer exceptional clarity and clarity, while their active noise cancellation technology is designed to block out a wide range of mid- and low-frequency sounds.

One thing to remember about the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 is that they don't support aptX, which is disappointing. This means you won't be in a position to benefit from the superior codec's lower latency when you're gaming on your PC.

In terms of comfort, the Life Q20's memory-foam ear cups and headband are comfortable enough to wear for long periods of time without causing discomfort. The ear cups are capable of turning and adjust to the particular shape of your head, so you can achieve a perfect fit. You can also listen to music with a 3.5mm cable and a microUSB cable is included for charging the battery.