Although all headphones have one purpose – to produce sound, they do not sound all the same. And, when it comes to sound, build quality, and value for money, these top 12 headphone brands are simply the best. Some even have integrated high-tech features to focus more on the music and not the blaring background noise.
12 Best Headphone Brands for Audio Quality and Comfort
1. Sennheiser
Sennheiser is a global leader in audio electronics. They have a wide range of high-fidelity products, including aviation headsets, microphones, and headphones.
Many of their products have become favorites for audiophiles all over the world, including the HD660s. Although this pair of cans is considered entry-level (in the audiophile world), it has a neutral sound signature. It doesn’t have ear-deafening bass or screeching highs; instead, it focuses on balance across all boards.
Pros
- Timeless design
- Excellent sound quality
- Comfortable to wear
- Exceptional stereo imaging
Cons
- Bass lovers will hate the neutral sound signature.
2. Sony
Sony is undoubtedly one of the biggest companies (and headphone brands) for electronic consumer products. They have 4K televisions, speakers, high-end MP3 players, and of course, their superb mirrorless cameras.
Perhaps one of their most popular products, which anyone can appreciate, is the WH–1000XM4. This pair of headphones is well-loved across the globe thanks to its exceptional noise-cancellation technology. Plus, they are sleek, lightweight, and comfortable to wear for hours.
Although they pretty much look like their predecessor, the WH-1000XM4 features several updates. One of the previous complaints from the third-gen is the lack of multiple device pairing. And Sony now integrated an all-new multipoint pairing, but it can only connect with two devices.
They also feature DSEE Extreme upscaling, auto-play/ pause, and conversational awareness. Sony took the time to make a few subtle alterations to make the headphones even more comfortable.
There are also subtle design changes. First, the padding on top of the headband has been slightly reduced to reduce the pressure on your head. The earpads have also been enlarged and come with softer padding, which means you can wear the headphones even longer without irritating your ears.
Pros
- Dynamic sound quality
- DSEE Extreme audio upscaling
- Supports simultenaously two Bluetooth connections
- Extended battery life
- Excellent noise canceling
Cons
- Rather standard design
- Quite pricey
3. Bose
Bose is also one of the top-tier headphone brands today. They offer a wide array of high-end audio equipment, with most products starting in the $300-$400 price range.
The QuietComfort 35 II wireless headphones are one of the most well-known Bose products. It works with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa for seamless access to entertainment and information with just your voice.
Battery life is impressive at 20 hours as well. If you drain the battery in the middle of the day, a 15-minute recharge will give another 2.5 hours. Just enough time for your commute back home.
For sound quality, you won’t be disappointed with the QuietComfort 35 II. It boasts a captivating fullness and clarity for your music.
No matter how loud you blast your tunes, the headphones are equipped with volume-optimized EQ for enhanced sound performance. The QuietComfort 35 II also features a noise-canceling dual-microphone system that provides exceptional call quality, even in noisy environments.
Pros
- Earpads don’t rotate 90 degrees
- Appealing minimalistic design
Cons
- Below average phone call quality
4. Beyerdynamic
Beyerdynamic, one of the best headphone brands today, is a family-owned audio electronics manufacturer based in Germany.
The wired DT990 is perfect for professional audio editing, mixing, and mastering. And thanks to their affordable price tag, they have become quite common in the music industry. On top of that, the design elements make the DT990 ideal for studio applications, owing to their sound reproduction quality.
They come with soft, circumaural, and replaceable earpads, which ensure high wearing comfort. The semi-open back design provides a natural and much airier sound quality compared to closed-back headphones.
5. Audio-Technica
Audio-Technica is a Japanese brand that has been around for quite some time now. The ATH-M50x is one of the most popular headphones in Audio-Technica’s lineup.
This pair of headphones is widely acclaimed by top audio engineers and audio enthusiasts worldwide for their excellent sonic performance. The headphones feature a closed-back design with top-grade plastic construction, making them sturdy and durable enough for everyday usage.
The wired over-ear ATH-M50x provides a comfortable fit and well-balanced sound profile with just the right amount of bass boost. Plus, it has a circumaural design that contours around the ears for perfect sound isolation.
Pros
- Stylish, durable design
- Rich and clean sound output
Cons
- Long bulky cable
6. Beats
Beats may have had a bad reputation in the audiophile world. But, it slowly dissipating ever since the brand was bought by Apple in 2014. The brand is now regarded as one of the best headphone brands as their latest line-up has a more polished sound quality.
One of the best Beats headphones you can buy is the Beats Solo Pro.
The Beats Solo Pro sports a familiar Beats design but now has more tricks up its sleeves. It has the new Apple H1 Headphone Chip and Class 1 Bluetooth for seamless pairing, extended range, and reduced dropouts.
Battery life is always a concern for anyone looking to buy wireless headphone brands. However, t.his is not something you should worry about with the Solo Pros. They have up to 22 hours of listening time. Think it is not enough? You can push it up to 40 if you switch off the transparency and ANC modes.
Pros
- Seamless pairing
- Beautiful, practical design
- Exceptional audio performance
- Comfortable to wear
Cons
- Rather expensive
7. Skullcandy
Skullcandy is an American-based company that initially targeted the outdoor action sport demographics but evolved to a general consumer market brand.
Like most other Skullcandy headphones, the Crusher EVO features an eye-catching design that is also working to enhance their durability. They are available in several fantastic colors that amp the overall design aesthetic.
They also house several extra features like volume controls and built-in tile finding technology. The Crusher has a bass-heavy sound profile in terms of sound quality, which many will appreciate, especially for EDM lovers.
With up to 41 hours of battery life, you may never have to worry about running out of juice when you need them. And even better, with a 10-minute charge session, you get 4 hours of playtime.
Pros
- Superior sound quality
- Excellent noise-canceling
- Beautiful bass reproduction
- Appealing design
Cons
- Quite bulky and heavy
8. Jabra
If you are looking for compact headphones, the Jabra Elite 75t’s are some of the most popular earbuds from the manufacturer.
It has a unique grip coating that keeps the buds in place when you move. Plus, this pair of wireless Bluetooth earbuds have up to 24 hours of battery life. It also comes with a pocket-friendly charging case.
For voice call quality, the 75t from Jabra doesn’t fall short. It is crystal clear and loud due to the four microphones and the latest digital signal processing built inside these tiny earbuds. Like most other earbuds today, the Jabra’s are also compatible with iOS and Android.
Pros
- Compact and pocket friendly
- Personalized sound profiles
- Waterproof, sweatproof and workout-proof
- Active noise cancellation
- Excellent battery life
Cons
- Poor latency and sync issues
- It is not as comfortable on your ears
9. Logitech
Logitech is not only one of the best headphone brands. The company is also a global leader in manufacturing computer peripherals like webcams and keyboards.
In 2019, many gamers fell in love with Logitech G Pro X wired headphones. And now, in 2021, the Logitech G Pro X Wireless is also generating many cult followers.
The gaming headset design is quite sturdy. It’s primarily made of metal, steel hinges, and a flexible band covered in a premium leatherette-wrapped cushion. A solid construction paired with excellent sound quality is bound to give you an even more immersive audio experience.
Like its predecessor, the Pro X wireless includes various onboard controls like volume dial, power switch, and mic mute button. The G Pro X wireless battery life won’t compete with other premium ANC headphones, but you do get up 20 hours on a single charge.
Pros
- Can be recharged with USB-C
- Supports Virtual Surround sound
- Functional range of up to 15 meters
Cons
- Average sound quality
10. JBL
JBL is one of the most famous headphones because of its high-quality and reasonably priced audio listening gears. They have a large variety of headphones but what stood out for us was the JBL Live 650BTNC.
Straight out the box, the JBL Live 650BTNC has an excellent feel to them. They are sturdy and look premium enough. Their lightweight design is perfect for people on the go, but they also work well as home headphones. The earcups have a soft memory form and are covered with top-tier faux leather, which is quite comfortable on the ear and adds to the overall design appeal.
Powerful 40mm drivers ensure that you get the signature JBL sound found in different famous venues around the world. The 650BTNC Bluetooth headphones also feature noise-canceling technology to keep you jamming to your playlist, no matter where you are.
Pros
- Up to 30 hours battery life
- Sturdy, lightweight design
- Multipoint connection capabilities
- Hands-free calls
- Quite affordable
Cons
- Prone to breaking easily
11. Focal
The French headphone brand has been around since the late 1970s, designing and selling high fidelity audio systems. They offer an extensive list of products, the majority of which are worth thousands of dollars.
The Focal Elegia is one of their mid-range priced headphones. Just like its more expensive counterparts, the Elegia features a very distinct branding unique to Focal. The difference is the Elegia is closed-back, making it suitable for on-the-go use without strangers hearing what’s on your playlist.
Albeit it is more affordable versus premium Focal headphones, the Elegia still delivers a highly commendable sound performance. It reproduces even the subtlest sound details at both high and low frequencies.
Pros
- Excellent Noise cancellation
- Impeccable audio reproduction
- High-end finish
- Utter transparency
Cons
- Quite expensive
12. SteelSeries
SteelSeries is a veteran in the gaming peripherals industry. The Danish company founded in 2001 has created a lot of buzz around their headsets, keyboards, and mice; and is quite popular amongst the gaming communities.
If you fancy some style on your headphones, the SteelSeries Arctis 5 is the right product for you. Many gamers use and appreciate the Arctis 5 because it produces little to no distortion. It also has a sleek and comfy design, featuring premium woven ski goggle fabric padded ear cushions and a reinforced headband.
Pros
- Designed for gaming
- Comfortable on the ears
Cons
- Below-average sound quality
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