The best headphones for listening to music in 2022

The modern headphone market offers a huge selection of headphones: your eyes run wide, it’s hard to make the right choice. Some models are suitable for listening to lectures or talking on the phone, others for games, others for listening to music in high quality, and others are positioned by the manufacturer as universal. It should be remembered that for versatility you have to pay with the limitations of each function.

It is important to remember that headphones are an individual subject, and in addition to purely technical parameters, personal taste preferences must also be taken into account when choosing them. They can often be decisive when choosing headphones. The KP advises you to first decide on the design of the model, and then with the rest of the options. Therefore, we divided the rating of the best headphones into categories in accordance with the design parameters.

Editor’s Choice

Denon AH-D5200

The Denon AH-D5200 over-ear headphones deliver superior sound and stylish design. 50mm cups are made from a variety of materials, even exotic options like zebrano wood. They have the necessary acoustic properties: good sound insulation, vibration absorption, minimal sound distortion. A headroom of 1800mW ensures detailed and clear stereo sound, deep and textured bass, and close sound. 

Headphones will reveal their full potential only when working with a stationary amplifier. The headphones are equipped with ergonomic memory foam ear cushions, the headband is made of wear-resistant soft artificial leather. For their segment, the headphones have an average weight of 385 g. The headphones can also be used portable. The kit comes with a fabric storage case and a detachable 1,2 m cable. The only drawback of the headphones is the absence of a hard storage case. We can safely say that the Denon AH-D5200 is one of the best headphones for audiophiles.

Main characteristics

Advantages and disadvantages

HONOR Earbuds 2 Lite

These are wireless in-ear headphones for music lovers with active noise cancellation and high-quality sound. Each HONOR Earbuds 2 Lite is equipped with two microphones that actively cancel external noise using artificial intelligence. A long press on the earpiece will turn on the sound transparency mode, then the user will hear the sounds around him. 

The case is also a charger, a set of ear pads and a USB cable are included. The stylish headphones are IPX4 water-resistant for direct splash protection. However, they cannot be submerged in water. There is also a touch control system. Fans of gadgets with tangible buttons may be uncomfortable with the lack of mechanical control of the gadget. However, this is unlikely to get in the way of those who are looking for the best headphones for music lovers.

Main characteristics

Advantages and disadvantages

Top 3 Best Wired Over-Ear Headphones for Listening to Music

1. Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x full-size wired music headphones will delight many audiophiles and audio professionals. Headphones guarantee surround and clear sound with minimal distortion. The high sensitivity of 99 dB ensures high-quality sound even at high volumes. The model does a great job with bass. 

Music lovers will appreciate the good passive noise isolation of the device – 21 dB. Due to the low impedance of 38 ohms, the headphones will delight music lovers with low-power portable amplifiers with a clear sound, however, for a full-fledged sound, a more powerful source is required. Three cables included in the kit allow you to connect the model to any sound source. 

Thanks to its light weight, standard 45 mm drivers and a soft headband, the model fits perfectly on the head and guarantees a comfortable fit. The headphones are portable and foldable and come with a leatherette case for storage and carrying.

Main characteristics

Advantages and disadvantages

2. Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro (250 Ohm)

Professional studio headphones for listening, mixing and editing music. High-quality noise isolation and unique Bass Reflex technology allow you to delve into the world of music and feel the bass as much as possible. 

Headphones are designed for high load, so the impedance of the model is quite high – 250 ohms. Music lovers are advised to purchase a headphone amplifier to listen to music at home. The model is compatible with both portable devices and professional studio equipment. 

The long, twisted XNUMX-meter cord can be a nuisance for normal walking, but can be useful when working on stage or in the studio, as well as when listening to music at home. The headband is securely and comfortably fixed, and the removable soft velor ear cushions fit snugly around the ears.

Main characteristics

Advantages and disadvantages

3. Sennheiser HD 280 Pro

Lightweight, foldable Sennheiser HD 280 Pro studio headphones are a godsend for audiophiles and DJs. Headphones have a wide frequency range and high power. The noise reduction of the model up to 32 dB almost completely isolates the listener from the outside world. 

Natural sound at high impedance up to 64 ohms fully unlocks the potential when working with studio audio equipment. The model is equipped with eco-leather ear cushions and a headband with soft inserts that are firmly attached to the head without creating discomfort while wearing. 

However, users note that with prolonged use, eco-leather cups heat up and the ears sweat, which creates inconvenience.

Main characteristics

Advantages and disadvantages

Top 3 Best Wireless Over-Ear Headphones for Listening to Music

1. Bose QuietComfort 35 II

The Bose QuietComfort 35 II wireless headphones for music lovers will delight you with smooth, clear sound, deep bass and powerful noise cancellation. ANC (active noise control) active noise isolation technology is ideal for listening to music in noisy places. Mechanical control – there are buttons and a slider on the case, or remote control – through the application. 

The model is equipped with the Multipoint function, that is, the headphones can connect to several sources at the same time and quickly switch between them.

However, the outdated micro-USB connector can bring inconvenience, because almost all modern gadgets are equipped with a USB-C connector. Comes with an audio cable and a spacious storage case. The greatest dissatisfaction among users is caused by a voice assistant and a headset microphone. The first turns on while listening to a song and speaks loudly, for example, about the battery level, the second does not work well outdoors, so you need to raise your voice to talk outdoors. The activity of the voice assistant can be adjusted in the application, with a microphone, most likely, you will need to put up with it.

Main characteristics

Advantages and disadvantages

2.Apple AirPods Max

These are wireless headphones for music lovers and fans of Apple ecosystem products. Deep bass and pronounced high frequencies will not leave indifferent even the most captious music lover. 

The headphones can switch from active noise isolation mode to transparent mode, in which external noise is not blocked. This feature is very useful and vital when listening to music on the street or in crowded places. Compared to most other headphones on the market, AirPods Max have less volume headroom, and therefore less chance of hearing damage to the user.

Headphones are controlled through the application, or mechanically: on the right cup there is a Digital Crown and a rectangular button. Wireless over-ear headphones in most cases come with an audio cable for connecting to stationary devices. But the audio cable for Apple AirPods Max is purchased separately, which is quite expensive. The Lightning cable included in the kit is only suitable for charging the gadget. 

The headphones automatically sync with Apple technology, there is no sleep or off button on the case. During synchronization, the headphones automatically detect when the user has taken the earpiece out of the ear and automatically pause playback. 

With Android devices, the headphones can be connected, but not all functions will be available.

Main characteristics

Advantages and disadvantages

3. JBL Tune 660NC

The JBL Tune 660NC Active Noise Canceling Headphones offer quality audio performance and natural, superior sound. Headphones sound equally good both when listening to music on a smartphone and when working with professional equipment. The built-in microphone does not distort the sound, so the interlocutor hears the speaker clearly. Noise cancellation is turned on and off with a separate button.

The model is able to work without recharging for 44 hours, such a long autonomy and low weight will delight fans of traveling away from power sources. The earbuds charge quickly, with five minutes of charging enough for two hours of active use. The device can also be used as a wired device – a detachable cable is included. 

The headphones do not come with a case or cover, and the ear cushions of the emitters cannot be removed and replaced. However, the headphones fold compactly, the cups rotate 90 degrees and fit comfortably in the pocket of a jacket or backpack. Due to the lack of an application for a smartphone, it is impossible to change some settings of the headphones, for example, it is impossible to adjust the equalizer to the user’s musical taste.

Main characteristics

Advantages and disadvantages

Top 3 best wired in-ear headphones for listening to music

1. Westone ONE PRO30

The sound is clear and expressive, ideal for listening to instrumental music. The model is equipped with three emitters, each of which is focused on its own range. 

These are very loud headphones, the sensitivity is 124 dB. The high impedance of 56 ohms will not reveal the full dynamic range when working with devices of lower impedance. However, for a clearer sound, you can separately purchase an audio card with a suitable impedance. 

Behind-the-ear hooks and a selection of ear cushions in different materials and sizes ensure a comfortable fit. A convenient case with holes is suitable for carrying on a belt or carabiner, a detachable cable provides compact storage.

Main characteristics

Advantages and disadvantages

2. Shure SE425-CL-EFS

Shure SE425-CL-EFS wired vacuum headphones are equipped with three emitters with different ranges. The model uses two high-quality microdrivers – low-frequency and high-frequency. Thanks to this technology, the headphones are characterized by high-quality sound and excellent detail.

The earplugs perfectly reproduce live and acoustic sound, but the bass is not heard as well, however, as with all reinforcing headphones. The device has excellent sound insulation – up to 37 dB of external noise is cut off. The kit comes with a detachable cable, a hard case and a set of ear pads. 

If the cable or one of the headphones breaks, they can be easily replaced. With the right choice of ear cushions, you can achieve complete sound isolation.

Main characteristics

Advantages and disadvantages

3. Apple EarPods (Lightning)

Apple’s flagship headset is known for its sleek design, seamless headset and microphone, and great music sound. Apple EarPods are compatible with devices that have a Lightning connector.

Bright sound with minimal distortion is provided by a wide frequency range and the unique structure of the speakers themselves, which follow the shape of the ear. 

Soundproofing is weak, as in principle with all in-ear headphones. Headphones are equipped with a convenient headset remote control on the cable. The model is suitable for active sports, but you need to be prepared for the constant tangling of wires.

Main characteristics

Advantages and disadvantages

Top 3 Best Wireless In-Ear Headphones for Listening to Music

1. Huawei FreeBuds 4

The weightless Huawei FreeBuds 4 wireless earbuds lead the pack with surround sound and advanced features. When listening to music, these headphones have deep bass, detailed frequency separation and surround sound. 

The device is equipped with an active noise isolation function with two modes – comfortable and normal (powerful). The user can select the desired noise reduction mode through the application on the smartphone. An equalizer is also available in the application for custom bass and treble settings. The audio optimization feature will adjust the volume of speech in video or audio based on the user’s hearing. 

The headphones are equipped with the Multipoint function (connecting to several devices at the same time), IPX4 moisture protection, a position sensor – an accelerometer and a motion sensor – when the earphone is taken out of the ear, it automatically turns off. 

The use of in-ear headphones does not provide for the presence of ear cushions, so it is impossible to predict in advance whether the shape of the model will fit the shape of the user’s ears. 

Main characteristics

Advantages and disadvantages

2. Jabra EliteActive 75t

Wireless earbuds for quality music lovers who lead a sporty lifestyle. They are equipped with four microphones for active noise isolation. The model is more suitable for sports fans, it is equipped with motion and position sensors, a transparency mode and a small autonomy of up to 7.5 hours. 

Users note detailed sound and good accented bass. However, the microphone does not work well in strong winds: the interlocutor will not hear the speaker. You can set the equalizer in a convenient mobile application. The compact charging case of the device fits in your pocket. Excellent connection quality with a smartphone eliminates sound interruption, as the range of the device reaches 10 m.

Main characteristics

Advantages and disadvantages

3.OPPO Enco Free2 W52

Wireless in-ear headphones OPPO Enco Free2 W52 reproduce high-quality and loud sound. In addition, the model is equipped with three microphones for active noise reduction up to 42 dB, transparency mode and touch control. The degree of signal amplification can be adjusted individually.

Bluetooth 5.2 technology transmits the signal quickly and stably, eliminating audio delay and interference. The package includes: headphones, charging case and USB-C charging cable. The main disadvantages: sound distortion in headset mode and at high volume levels.

Main characteristics

Advantages and disadvantages

How to choose headphones for music

The electronics market is overflowing with different headphone models. To buy the best, you need to analyze a number of parameters, while not forgetting the price. Not always the model of a well-known company justifies its inflated cost and vice versa. When choosing the perfect headphones for listening to music, you need to consider:

• Purpose of use. Decide when and under what conditions you will listen to music: on the run, at home or sitting in front of the monitor screen? A music lover will choose high-quality wired closed headphones, a sound engineer will choose wired monitor headphones, an athlete will prefer wireless earbuds, and an office worker will choose in-ear wired ones.
• Resistance. The sound quality depends on the impedance value of the headphones and the device with which they will be used. An approximate frequency range suitable for a computer or smartphone is 10-36 ohms. For professional audio equipment, this parameter is much higher. The higher the impedance, the better the sound will be.
• Sensitivity. The higher the sound pressure level in dB, the louder the headphones will play and vice versa.
• Noise suppression. If you need to completely isolate yourself from the outside world to enjoy your favorite music, choose either closed-back headphones that completely isolate the ear canal, or models with active noise cancellation. But be careful when using this feature outdoors.
• Additional functions. Modern headphones are turning into independent gadgets with a standard set of functions from dialing a phone number to a voice assistant inside. If necessary, you can buy a more advanced model.
• Musical preferences and own ear. Different musical styles sound different in headphones. There are no exact instructions for choosing a model for a rock or opera lover, so rely on your ears. Listen to your favorite song on different headphones and decide which devices are more pleasing to your ears. 

What are headphones for listening to music

By signal transmission method

According to the method of signal transmission, headphones are divided into wired и wireless. The former work by connecting directly to the device using a wire through which the signal is transmitted, the latter work autonomously, the signal is transmitted using the bluetooth communication protocol. There are also combined models with a detachable wire.

The main advantage of wireless headphones is the freedom of movement of the user, they are compact and lightweight. However, there are a number of points on which wireless headphones lose to wired ones. In the absence of a stable communication signal, there may be interruptions in the operation of the headphones and a decrease in the sound transmission speed. In addition, wireless headphones require constant recharging and close attention from the user, because they can fall out and get lost.

Wired headphones are a classic accessory. They are harder to lose, they do not need recharging. Because of the high-quality and clear sound, sound engineers prefer wired headphones. The main disadvantage of this type of headphones is the wire itself. He constantly gets confused in his pockets, the plug breaks and one of the headphones may suddenly stop working or start to distort the sound. 

By type of construction

Intracanal or vacuum (“plugs”)

From the name it is clear that these are headphones that are inserted directly into the ear canal. They do not allow noise from the outside to penetrate and spoil the clean sound inside. Usually, in-ear headphones come with soft ear tips or silicone ear tips. Headphones with silicone tips are called vacuum. They fit closer to the ear and do not allow the headphones to fall out. 

Due to the complete noise isolation, in-ear headphones can be life-threatening. A person should hear when a car or a dubious person is approaching him. Also, the disadvantage of “gags” is physical discomfort with prolonged use, for example, a headache.

Plug-in (“inserts”, “droplets”, “buttons”)

In-ear headphones, like in-ear headphones, are inserted into the auricle, but not so deeply. Often supplied with soft foam ear cushions for comfortable use and noise cancellation.  

Overhead

On-ear headphones are put on the ears, pressing them from the outside. The speakers are located far from the auricle, so the full sound of the headphones is possible at high volumes. They are fastened with an arc-shaped headband or behind the ear (arc above the ear). Over-ear headphones are more commonly used with a computer.

Full-size

Outwardly similar to overhead, differ only in fixation. These are large headphones that completely cover the ears. They are easy to connect to any device. Ear cushions provide good sound isolation, large speakers – clear reproduction.

Monitor

This is an enlarged version of full-size headphones. The main differences: a massive headband, a ring-shaped long cord and considerable weight. These headphones can hardly be called portable, although they do not need this function. They are used by professionals in recording studios. 

Popular questions and answers

Answered the most frequently asked questions from users Oleg Chechik, sound engineer, sound producer, founder of the Studio CSP recording studio.