10 Best Over the Ear Headphones of 2024: Expert Reviews

Over-the-ear headphones make life easier, but Krisp takes it further by making it more accessible. While Krisp and Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) share the same goal of reducing noise, they achieve it differently. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) blocks external sounds, creating a quieter environment, whereas Krisp enhances voice communication by filtering out unwanted noise in real-time. The best part? Krisp works seamlessly with any headphone and app, making it the true savior of your meetings.

The sound is private, so you have to enjoy it alone. The best way to do so is with over-the-ear headphones that fully cover your ears. Protecting the ear and guarding you from unwanted noise gives you more time to immerse yourself in your world of music, movies, games, podcasts, and more. 

A wide variety of over-ear headphones are hitting the shelves, but the question is to find the one that perfectly matches your needs. Hopefully, you will find your ideal over-the-ear headphones today!

This guide, which includes professional reviews, a thorough comparison chart, and a buying guide, will help you sort through the alternatives available in 2024 and make an informed choice. 

1. How to Choose the Perfect Over-the-Ear Headphones?

Finding your perfect over the ear headphones must be challenging but it is worth the effort. Before you start shopping, just ask yourself some key questions and do some research on the best budget over the ear headphones or find out which headphone brand has the best sound quality.

There is not one perfect over-the-ear headphone; every pair is unique and perfect in its way. You just have to emphasize your feelings toward the headphones you want. First of all, understand your needs and the purpose of the purchase. 

Are you a music enthusiast, a podcast lover, a gamer who adores long nights with favorite games, or a remote worker who enjoys working in coworking spaces and cafes? Once you’ve identified what you need, it’s time to explore the different types of over-the-ear headphones.

 2. Types of the Over-the-Ear Headphones

Wired or Wireless?

You know that there are two types of over-the-ear headphones: wired and wireless. Both are great, though you have to choose the one that is the best match for your ear. 

Wired over-the-ear headphones have advantages and disadvantages. The advantages include superior sound quality, which makes them ideal for music enthusiasts and professionals. They also don’t require charging, so you can use them anytime without worrying about battery life. 

One disadvantage of wired over-the-ear headphones is the advantage of wireless ones. With the best over the ear wireless headphones, you feel free, both literally and figuratively. Gym rats will appreciate these best wireless over the ear headphones as they will give them freedom of movement and long, long hours at the gym. 

It doesn’t matter if you prioritize sound quality or mobility; exploring the benefits of each can help you make an informed decision.

Noise Canceling Headphones

Noise-canceling headphones are the best option for those who can’t concentrate on the task without isolation. You can find best over the ear noise canceling headphones below, but before that, let’s discuss how noise-canceling functions work. 

There are two types of noise reduction: passive noise cancelation and active noise cancelation. 

1. Passive Noise Cancellation

The headphones’ over-ear design naturally blocks external noise through well-padded ear cups covering your ears completely.

This method effectively reduces higher-frequency sounds, such as conversations or sharp noises, but it is less effective at reducing low-frequency hums. 

Fortunately, nowadays, we have so many smart software programs that help us deal with the small flaws that our technology may have. For example, if you have headphones with passive noise cancellation, you can download Krisp software and enjoy noise cancelation as if you have ANC.   

2. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)

 These headphones are equipped with microphones that detect ambient sounds. The ANC system processes these sounds and generates an inverse sound wave (antiphase), which cancels out the external noise.

ANC is particularly effective at eliminating low-frequency sounds, such as the drone of an airplane engine, air conditioning units, or traffic noise.

Check out this headset comparison guide if you wonder how Krisp compares to other noise-canceling solutions.

3. Top 10 Over the Ear Headphones of 2024

1. Sony WH-1000XM5

Sony’s new over-the-ear headphones are here to change the game. After years of dedicated development, they’ve created something you can’t resist. If you are looking for the best over the ear headphones for working out then you’ve found it; if you are looking for a remote working buddy then again this Sony WH-1000XM5 is right here for you.  

Key Features:

• Sound Quality: Exceptional clarity with deep bass and clear mids.
• Comfort: Soft ear cushions and lightweight design.
• Battery Life: Up to 30 hours on a single charge.
• Noise Cancellation: Industry-leading active noise cancellation.
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, multi-device pairing.

Pros:

• Superior sound and noise cancellation.
• Comfortable for long wear.
• Long battery life.

Cons:

• High price point.
• Limited color options.

2. Bose QuietComfort 45

The moment you put on these Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones, you feel true value of silence. Designed with comfort in mind, these headphones excel in their mission.  The QuietComfort 45 Headphones offer superior comfort and active noise cancellation technology. Along with offering deep, clear audio and an adjustable EQ to customize the sound to your preference, the Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones also feature exclusive acoustic technology. They are the best over the ear bluetooth headphones that offer the ideal ratio of comfort, sound quality, and quietness for a full day of enjoyment.

Key Features:

• Sound Quality: Balanced audio performance with deep bass.
• Comfort: Plush ear cushions for extended wear.
• Battery Life: Up to 24 hours per charge.
• Noise Cancellation: Advanced noise canceling technology.
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.1, voice assistant integration.

Pros:

• Excellent noise cancellation.
• Comfortable fit.
• Reliable connectivity.

Cons:

• Slightly bulky design.
• Higher price range.

3. Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless

These headphones are here to become your new travel buddy. The exceptional sound will make every long flight short and every new country filled with music. 

You will not worry about battery life, which is the best feature for every commuter and traveler. Explore the world with this Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless. 

Key Features:

• Sound Quality: High-fidelity sound with powerful bass.
• Comfort: Ergonomic design with premium materials.
• Battery Life: Impressive 60-hour battery life.
• Noise Cancellation: Adaptive noise cancelling technology.
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2, multipoint connectivity.

Pros:

• Exceptional battery life.
• Superior sound quality.
• Durable build.

Cons:

• Premium pricing.
• Limited availability in some regions.

4. Apple AirPods Max

We all know that Apple always wins the battle, and they did it again. If you type “best over the ear headphones noise cancelling” you will find the headphones –  Apple AirPods Max. 

Imagine pairing these headphones with Krisp software, and you’ll experience heaven on earth. Now, let’s explore this beast’s key features. 

Key Features:

• Sound Quality: Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking.
• Comfort: Breathable knit mesh canopy and memory foam ear cushions.
• Battery Life: Up to 20 hours with ANC and spatial audio enabled.
• Noise Cancellation: Active noise cancellation and transparency mode.
• Connectivity: Seamless integration with Apple ecosystem.

Pros:

• Top-tier sound and build quality.
• Seamless Apple integration.
• Effective noise cancellation.

Cons:

• High cost.
• Heavier than some competitors.

5. Jabra Elite 85h

You are in the right place if you want “premium” sound. These headphones make the experience even more comfortable. You will not feel a thing in your ears; just enjoy the music. 

The only thing keeping these headphones from becoming the best is less effective ANC, which is amendable: all you have to do is use them with Krisp and enjoy your music without any noise. 

Key Features:

• Sound Quality: Rich sound with customizable EQ settings.
• Comfort: Soft ear cushions and adjustable headband.
• Battery Life: Up to 36 hours on a single charge.
• Noise Cancellation: Smart ANC that adapts to your environment.
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, voice assistant compatibility.

Pros:

• Long battery life.
• Customizable sound profiles.
• Good value for money.

Cons:

• Slightly bulky.
• Less effective ANC compared to top competitors.

6. Bowers & Wilkins PX7

Luxury lovers will appreciate this model. With these headphones, you will enjoy natural audio sounds. Working hard should be paid off likewise, it is time to do yourself a favor and buy these sleek headphones. 

Key Features:

• Sound Quality: High-resolution sound with powerful bass.
• Comfort: Lightweight design with memory foam ear cushions.
• Battery Life: Up to 30 hours.
• Noise Cancellation: Adaptive noise cancelling.
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, aptX Adaptive.

Pros:

• Great sound quality.
• Stylish design.
• Good battery life.

Cons:

• Expensive.
• ANC could be improved.

7. Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro

Wired headphones can also be comfortable, and this model confirms that. The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro is all about working at ease without worrying about the battery life. Excellent sound quality is promised. 

Key Features:

• Sound Quality: Studio-quality sound with a wide frequency range.
• Comfort: Soft velour ear pads for extended wear.
• Battery Life: N/A (wired headphones).
• Noise Cancellation: Passive noise isolation.
• Connectivity: Wired, 3.5mm and 6.35mm connectors.

Pros:

• Excellent sound quality.
• Comfortable for long sessions.
• Durable build.

Cons:

• No wireless option.
• Bulky design.

8. Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT

These legendary headphones offer the clearest sound possible. If you are a fan of deep, booming bass, then this is a match made in heaven. 

Key Features:

• Sound Quality: Clear sound with deep bass.
• Comfort: Professional-grade ear pad and headband material.
• Battery Life: Up to 40 hours on a single charge.
• Noise Cancellation: Passive noise isolation.
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, wired option available.

Pros:

• High sound quality.
• Long battery life.
• Versatile connectivity options.

Cons:

• No active noise cancellation.
• Slightly heavy.

9. Marshall Monitor II ANC

Marshall is always classy. Their sleek design makes you fall in love with their every product. Marshall Monitor II ANC has the perfect sound performance and is stylish and durable. What else does one need? 

Key Features:

• Sound Quality: Signature Marshall sound with deep bass.
• Comfort: Ergonomic design with plush ear cushions.
• Battery Life: Up to 30 hours with ANC.
• Noise Cancellation: Active noise cancelling.
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, voice assistant support.

Pros:

• Strong sound profile.
• Stylish design.
• Good battery life.

Cons:

• ANC not as effective as competitors.
• Higher price range.

10. Philips Fidelio X3

Philips offers premium sound and a comfortable experience. These new headphones deliver neutral and balanced sound—what could be better than that? They prioritize your comfort, so they introduced these Philips Fidelio X3 headphones with double-layered ear shells.  

Key Features:

• Sound Quality: Premium sound with natural balance.
• Comfort: Comfortable fit with double-layered ear shells.
• Battery Life: N/A (wired headphones).
• Noise Cancellation: Open-back design for natural soundstage.
• Connectivity: Wired, 3.5mm and 6.35mm connectors.

Pros:

• Exceptional sound quality.
• Comfortable for long sessions.
• High build quality.

Cons:

• No wireless option.
• Open-back design leaks sound.

4. Comparison Chart of the Best Over the Ear Headphones

Krisp: Your Perfect Partner for Over the Ear Headphones

When you combine Krisp with your over-the-ear headphones, you’re not just blocking out noise—you’re elevating your entire meeting experience. Krisp works alongside your Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) headphones to ensure that while external noise is kept out, your voice remains clear and focused during calls and meetings.

Here’s how Krisp makes your meetings even better:

• Two-Way Noise Cancellation: Krisp filters out background sounds in real-time, both in your environment and from other participants. It acts as a powerful filter, ensuring your voice is clear and free from distractions while also eliminating unwanted noises from others during calls.

• Meeting Transcription: Automatically transcribe your meetings and never miss important details.

• AI Meeting Notes: Get smart, AI-generated notes that summarize your discussions and generate action items based on what has been discussed.

• Meeting Recording: Easily record your meetings to review or share later.

Krisp is designed to complement your ANC headphones, creating the perfect combination for seamless, distraction-free meetings.

Discover how Krisp’s noise cancellation technology can elevate your listening experience beyond traditional Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). 

Bottom Line

Headphones are something deeply personal, so you have to choose them carefully. Whether you’re looking for the purest sound, comfort, or noise cancellation, you will eventually find it here, as we’ve chosen all the most fantastic headphones of 2024. 

Our top 10 list offers something unique. Just keep in mind that the perfect headphones for you are the ones that align with your lifestyle and preferences; for instance, the best over ear headphones for the gym may not be the best choice for working or vice versa. 

This guide’s expert reviews, comparison chart, and buying tips can help you make an informed decision. Dive in, explore your options, and find the perfect pair of over-the-ear headphones to advance your listening experience in 2024 and beyond.

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