Closed-back headphones block outside noise, giving you a unique listening experience perfect for studio work, gaming, and traveling. If you’re looking for the best closed-back headphones, you’ll want ones that provide great sound, comfort, and durability. However, choosing the right pair can be overwhelming with so many options on the market.
Closed headphones as it is clear from the name closed back and give you the perfect isolated experience from your surroundings. If you are into perfect noise-canceling headphones and want to cut yourself off from the noise or you are a daily traveler, commuting in the metro or working in workshops and want to enjoy the absolute clear listening experience then they are your best companions.
At the same time it is advisable not to use closed-back headphones for more than 3 hours, especially at higher frequencies, A study conducted at Wroclaw University of Science and Technology stated that
“It was found that for users of in-ear and close headphones, an average time of musical exposure of three hours causes hearing loss of 10-15 dB HL at higher frequencies. The use of open and semi-open headphones has no influence on hearing damage. Thus it would be stated that these kinds are safe in use.”
In this article, we will review some of the best closed-back headphones available, looking at their design, features, pros, and cons. From budget-friendly options to high-end models, you’ll find a pair that suits your needs.
8 Best Closed-Back Headphones
Now, let’s find out why these headphones are worth considering!
Sony MDR-7506: Best Closed-Back Headphones for Professionals
Upon first look, you will figure that they are just normal headphones with boring vibes. But they quite surprised me in the long run and are very comfortable if you are using them for a long time and if you compare them with your typical ones they will always win. They have incredible quality in terms of sound but if you are looking for only a music-listening experience then you should opt for other headphones, they are more for those who are interested in editing and audio mixing especially for those who are working in professional studios. They have a long cord so they will provide the flexibility you need.
I think the Sony MDR-7506 is great for both casual listeners and professionals. They are lightweight and offer precise sound. However, the non-detachable cable could be an issue for those who want more flexibility.
Design:
The Sony MDR-7506 headphones have a foldable design, making them compact and easy to carry. The earcups are large and cover your ears completely for maximum comfort during long listening sessions. They have a durable plastic build, with a simple yet functional look that focuses more on practicality than aesthetics.
Features:
These headphones are known for their accurate sound reproduction, making them a favorite among professionals in studios. They feature 40mm drivers that deliver clear, balanced sound across the frequency range. With a coiled cable, you won’t have to worry about tangling, and the closed-back design helps block out external noise. The 63-ohm impedance makes them suitable for most devices without needing an amplifier.
Their frequency range is 10Hz to 20kHz, covering the full spectrum for balanced sound.
Build Quality:
The Sony MDR-7506 boasts durable construction, thanks to the robust plastic body and coiled cable, which reduces wear and tear. Despite the simple design, the headphones are solidly built to withstand heavy daily use, especially in professional settings. The earpads, though comfortable, tend to wear out over time, but replacements are easy to find. The foldable design adds portability, making it convenient for professionals on the go.
Connectivity:
The Sony MDR-7506 features wired connectivity, ensuring consistent audio performance with no delays or interference. The 3-meter coiled cable offers flexibility and prevents tangling, making it convenient for studio use. The 3.5mm jack makes these headphones compatible with various devices, including laptops, audio interfaces, and smartphones (with an adapter). The MDR-7506 does not require batteries, allowing hassle-free usage without having any tension about charging.
Pros:
- Have very accurate sound reproduction, ideal for professional work.
- Lightweight and portable, making it comfortable for long listening sessions.
- The foldable design allows for easy storage and travel, enhancing portability.
Cons:
- Earpads may wear out quickly, requiring frequent replacement.
- Non-detachable cable limits flexibility and may lead to inconvenience.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS: Best Headphones For Studio Monitoring
As I said they are best for studio monitoring, the accuracy is phenomenal and it is amazing how you can hear and adjust the volume of your voice coming through these headphones. They have a perfect bass for BGM while dictating.
This microphone has an upgraded mic as compared to the M50x, and because of this, it gives the best experience and great sound quality for Zoom meetings or someone who is making calls and whose career involves a lot of talking. At the same time, they give you a perfect listening experience I have used them while gaming and they sounded better as compared to my previous headphones but the comfort is not perfect but you can say it is good.
I found these headphones very durable with a balanced sound profile. The detachable cable and swiveling earcups make them ideal for professional use, although some people find their bass too strong.
Design:
The ATH-M50xSTS headphones have plush, over-ear pads that offer great comfort, even during long use. Their build feels sturdy, and they have a swivel design, allowing the earcups to rotate for easy one-ear monitoring. The detachable cable adds convenience, as you can replace it without buying new headphones.
Features:
These headphones have 45mm large-aperture drivers that produce deep bass, detailed mids, and crisp highs. Their closed-back design ensures good sound isolation which is important for listening in noisy environments. They also have a frequency response range of 15Hz–28kHz, allowing them to capture a broad spectrum of sound precision.
Build Quality:
The build quality of the ATH-M50xSTS is commendable. The plastic and metal combination ensures both lightness and strength, while the soft earcups are designed for extended wear. The swiveling earcups add flexibility, making them perfect for DJ use or studio monitoring. The replaceable cable feature enhances the headphones’ lifespan, making them highly durable for professional use.
Connectivity:
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS uses a wired connection for clear, distortion-free sound. It has a detachable cable that enhances portability and durability, reducing wear and tear. The headphones feature a 3.5mm jack, which makes them widely compatible with most audio devices. The absence of batteries ensures uninterrupted listening, allowing you to use the headphones for long periods without charging or external power.
Pros:
- Great noise isolation ensures minimal external distractions.
- The detachable cable allows easy replacement, extending the headphones’ overall lifespan.
- Comfortable padding makes these headphones ideal for extended wear.
Cons:
1. Bass may be too strong for some people
Focal Stellia: Best Closed Back Luxury headphones
The most premium headphones are available out there, but the price tag often hesitates you, are they worth enough that I should spend 3K, apart from that let me tell you that the fit and finish are elite, focal put a lot of research into comfort, I can use them for a long long time. The sound quality, lows, and highs are great. Bass is perfect not too much not too low just the amount of your needs. You can use them while traveling and they can add some value to your personality also because of their look and design.
Design:
The Focal Stellia headphones boast a luxurious design with leather earcups and a headband that feels soft and premium. They have an ergonomic fit that sits comfortably on your head. The build is robust, with a mix of high-quality materials like aluminum and leather, giving it a stylish and elegant appearance.
Features:
These high-end headphones are equipped with 40mm pure Beryllium drivers, which deliver an exceptionally detailed and rich sound. They cover a wide frequency range of 5Hz to 40kHz, providing deep bass and sparkling highs. With a closed-back design, they offer excellent noise isolation, and their low impedance (35 ohms) makes them suitable for use with portable devices without needing an external amplifier.
Build Quality:
The Focal Stellia features a high-end build, combining aluminum and leather for both durability and luxury. The soft leather earcups ensure comfort during long listening sessions, while the robust headband offers a secure fit. These headphones are designed to withstand long-term use, and the detachable cables further extend their lifespan.
Connectivity:
The Focal Stellia Closed-Back headphones rely on wired connectivity to deliver high-fidelity audio. The standard 3.5mm jack makes it compatible with a wide range of audio devices, while its low impedance allows for use with portable devices without needing an external amplifier. The premium, non-detachable cable design ensures durability and maintains optimal sound quality. No batteries are required, ensuring continuous use without the need for charging.
Pros:
1. Premium materials and design
2. Excellent sound quality
3. Detachable cables
Cons:
1. Very expensive
Apple AirPods Max: Best Wireless Closed-Back Headphones
If you belong to Apple Universe they are the only device I think you should Opt for the quality is amazing as much as the other Apple products. They have relatively high prices but it is Apple that gives you the quality and brand value at the same time. If you are using AirPods I recommend you give them a try and make sure you will start using them for your daily activities.
Design:
The Apple AirPods Max features a sleek and modern design, with breathable knit mesh on the headband to reduce pressure on the head. The memory foam ear cushions provide excellent comfort, and the stainless steel frame gives it a premium feel. The earcups are also magnetic and detachable, which adds to the ease of maintenance.
Features:
These wireless headphones have Apple’s H1 chip in each earcup, providing ultra-fast connectivity and smooth transitions between Apple devices. The Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) effectively blocks out ambient noise, while the Transparency Mode lets you hear your surroundings when needed. With spatial audio and dynamic head tracking, they deliver immersive sound that feels three-dimensional.
Build Quality:
The Apple AirPods Max combines premium materials like stainless steel and memory foam to offer both durability and comfort. The breathable mesh on the headband minimizes pressure, while the memory foam earcups ensure long-lasting comfort. Although slightly heavier, the build quality is top-notch, with magnetic earcups that can be easily removed for cleaning or replacement.
Connectivity:
The Apple AirPods Max stand out with their wireless connectivity, utilizing Bluetooth for seamless pairing with Apple devices. The built-in H1 chip ensures a fast and stable connection, allowing easy switching between Apple devices. These headphones offer a wired option with a Lightning-to-3.5mm audio cable (sold separately), making them versatile for different listening setups. With up to 20 hours of battery life, they provide extended wireless use but require periodic charging.
Pros:
1. Premium build quality
2. Advanced noise-canceling technology
3. Easy to use with Apple devices
Cons:
1. Expensive
2. Heavier than other models
Sony WH-1000XM5: Best Noise-Canceling Closed-Back Headphones
If you are looking for the best noise-canceling headphones they are best for you and by design they also look great, if you compare them with Bose, AirPods, and XM4 they will stand out in every comparison in terms of noise-canceling. They have one of the best battery life and in the long run, they feel great with almost no sweat for your ears.
Design:
The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones have a lightweight design with soft earcups and a padded headband that makes them comfortable for extended wear. They have a minimalistic design with no visible hinges, making them look sleek and modern.
Features:
These headphones come with advanced Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), which adapts to your environment for optimal sound isolation. They use 30mm drivers, producing clear audio with balanced bass and treble. The battery life is impressive, offering up to 30 hours on a single charge with ANC turned on. They also support quick charging, giving you hours of playback with just a few minutes of charging.
Build Quality:
The Sony WH-1000XM5 boasts a minimalist design but is built to last. The soft, cushioned earcups and headband provide extended comfort. The lack of visible hinges enhances the sleek look, while the lightweight materials ensure they are comfortable for long-term use. Despite the lightweight construction, the headphones are durable and can withstand everyday use.
Connectivity:
The Sony WH-1000XM5 features wireless Bluetooth connectivity, offering high-quality sound with minimal delay. It supports multi-device pairing, allowing seamless transitions between your phone, tablet, or computer. These headphones also offer a wired connection option with a 3.5mm jack for situations where wireless isn’t preferred or when conserving battery life. With up to 30 hours of battery life, the headphones are designed for long, uninterrupted listening sessions but do require recharging.
Pros:
1. Great noise cancellation
2. Comfortable design
3. Long-lasting battery
Cons:
1. No water resistance
Sennheiser HD 280 Pro: Best Budget-Friendly Headphones
I found the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro to be a great budget option for professionals. However, the earcups might feel tight after a long time of use.
Design:
The Sennheiser HD 280 Pro headphones have a robust, all-black plastic design that feels sturdy and durable. They feature large, circumaural earcups that fit around your ears for a comfortable listening experience. The headband is adjustable, ensuring a secure fit.
Features:
These headphones have 32dB of passive noise isolation, which is excellent for blocking out background noise. The frequency response range is from 8Hz to 25kHz, ensuring detailed and clear sound across lows, mids, and highs. With their 64-ohm impedance, they are versatile enough to be used with a wide range of devices without an amplifier.
Build Quality:
Sennheiser HD 280 Pro headphones are designed with durability in mind. The plastic frame is robust and provides good flexibility without compromising strength. The headband is padded for added comfort, and the earcups are made of a sturdy, noise-isolating material that ensures long-term use without major wear and tear. The design also allows for parts like ear pads to be replaced.
Connectivity:
The Sennheiser HD 280 Pro connects via a wired interface, providing consistent and high-quality sound without latency. The 3-meter coiled cable gives users ample freedom of movement, making it ideal for studio and home use. With a 3.5mm plug and a 1/4″ adapter, these headphones are compatible with most audio interfaces, portable devices, and musical equipment. Being wired, the HD 280 Pro does not require batteries, ensuring continuous operation without interruptions.
Pros:
1. Affordable
2. Great noise isolation
3. Neutral sound
Cons:
1. Can feel tight
2. The cable is not detachable
OneOdio Wired: Best Headphones for Low Budget
One of the most budget-friendly headphones doing good in almost all departments, they have a decent sound quality, noise cancelation, and good comfort. They feel very light and are best for longer usage, just replace the ear cups with better ones to prolong the life of these headphones.
Design:
The OneOdio Wired headphones have over-ear cushioned earcups that swivel 90 degrees, allowing for easy monitoring and storage. The headband is adjustable and padded, providing a snug and comfortable fit. The build is mostly plastic, making them lightweight but less premium than other models.
Features:
These budget-friendly headphones offer 50mm drivers, which provide punchy bass and clear mids and highs. They feature a share port design, allowing you to plug in another pair of headphones to share your music with a friend. The wired connection ensures no latency, making them a good option for DJs or home studio use.
Build Quality:
The OneOdio Wired headphones are made of lightweight plastic, which makes them portable and comfortable to wear for long periods. While the material may not be as durable as higher-end models, they are well-built for their price range. The headband and earcups are cushioned, and the design allows for easy adjustments.
Connectivity:
The OneOdio Wired headphones feature a wired connection with a dual-duty cable, offering both a 6.35mm and a 3.5mm plug, making them compatible with a wide range of devices, from mixers to smartphones. The long, tangle-free cable ensures convenience during movement. These headphones are wired only, meaning no need for batteries or charging, providing uninterrupted usage for extended listening or DJ sessions.
Pros:
1. Great value
2. Strong bass
3. Dual-duty cable
Cons:
1. Build quality could be better
AKG Pro Audio AKG: Best Headphones For Audiophiles
I think these headphones are a great choice for professionals who want accurate sound at an affordable price. The sound quality is excellent, but the build could be improved.
Design:
The AKG K371 headphones have a sleek, modern design with oval-shaped earcups that provide a good fit around the ears. The earcups fold flat, and the headband is well-padded for comfort during extended use. They are lightweight and designed for portability.
Features:
These headphones have 50mm titanium-coated drivers that deliver studio-quality sound with deep bass, accurate mids, and smooth highs. The frequency range is an impressive 5Hz to 40kHz, allowing for great detail in the audio. Their low 32-ohm impedance makes them ideal for use with portable devices like smartphones and tablets without sacrificing sound quality.
Build Quality:
The AKG Pro Audio AKG is designed with portability and comfort in mind. The lightweight frame and foldable design make it easy to carry, and the earcups are well-cushioned. However, the plastic build could feel less durable compared to more expensive models. Despite this, the headphones offer a good balance between affordability and performance.
Connectivity:
The AKG Pro Audio K371 headphones use a wired connection with a detachable 3-meter cable for flexibility and ease of replacement. They come with 3.5mm and 6.35mm adapters, making them compatible with studio equipment, audio interfaces, and portable devices. The wired design eliminates the need for batteries or charging, ensuring consistent sound performance without interruptions.
Pros:
1. Balanced sound
2. Comfortable to wear for long periods
3. Affordable
Cons:
1. Build quality isn’t premium
2. Lacks extra features
Conclusion:
Everyone, from music lovers and professionals to casual listeners, wants the best closed-back headphones. They need to balance sound quality, comfort, and price. Expensive models like the Focal Stellia Closed-Back offer amazing sound quality but are costly. More affordable options like OneOdio Wired or Sennheiser HD 280 Pro offer good performance at a lower price. Make sure to think about your needs, like how portable they are, sound isolation, and how they connect, before choosing. But If you want the best closed-back headphones that excel in their purpose of noise canceling then Sony WH-1000XM5 are the winners, as I said before you can compare them with any other headphones in NC, and they will be the king.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Closed-Back Headphones
When selecting closed-back headphones, focusing on factors like sound quality, comfort, and overall performance is important. Here’s what you should consider:
Sound Quality:
The core reason for choosing closed-back headphones is their ability to provide immersive sound by isolating the listener from external noise. For accurate audio reproduction, look for headphones with a balanced frequency response that covers a wide range of highs, mids, and lows. This is particularly important if you’re using the headphones for critical listening or studio work.
Closed-back headphones like the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS excel in delivering rich, detailed audio while isolating ambient noise, making them perfect for monitoring or focused listening.
Neutral Sound Signature:
For the best experience, especially if you’re a professional, aim for a neutral sound signature. This ensures you hear the audio exactly as it was intended to sound, without exaggerated bass or treble.
Noise Isolation:
The closed-back design provides excellent noise isolation, which is crucial in noisy environments or for studio use. Choose models with passive or active noise-canceling features for optimal results.
Impedance and Power Requirements:
Impedance determines how much power your headphones need to deliver sound at optimal levels. For most casual users, low-impedance headphones (less than 50 ohms) like the Sony MDR-7506 or OneOdio Wired will work well with portable devices like smartphones or laptops without needing an amplifier.
For audiophiles or professionals working in a studio setting, high-impedance headphones (above 100 ohms) such as the Focal Stellia Closed-Back may require a dedicated amplifier to produce clear, high-quality sound. These headphones offer greater fidelity and less distortion at higher volumes but be prepared for the additional investment in audio equipment.
Comfort and Build Quality:
If you plan to wear your headphones for extended periods, comfort is a crucial factor. The design and materials used in the earcups, headband, and overall weight can significantly impact your listening experience.
Earcups:
Look for memory foam or velour padding in the earcups, as these materials provide long-lasting comfort and reduce ear fatigue. The Apple AirPods Max and AKG Pro Audio are examples of headphones with high-quality earcup materials that enhance comfort.
Headband Adjustability:
An adjustable and cushioned headband helps distribute weight evenly across the head, preventing pressure on the scalp. Headphones with an ergonomic design, such as the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro, ensure comfortable wear even during long sessions.
Weight:
Lightweight headphones are better for extended wear and portability. Models like the Sony MDR-7506, which weighs just 230 grams, are ideal for users who prioritize comfort without compromising on audio quality.
Open-Back vs. Closed-Back:
While open-back headphones offer a wide, natural soundstage, they are less suited for environments where noise isolation is critical. Closed-back headphones are designed to block out external noise, providing a more intimate listening experience. If you’re looking for headphones for commuting, studio work, or noisy environments, closed-back models are the way to go.
Sound stage:
Closed-back headphones typically offer a more focused soundstage, making them ideal for critical listening where precision is key. However, they may not replicate the same expansive sound as open-back models, which some audiophiles prefer for classical music or live recordings.
Connectivity Options:
Both wired and wireless options are available in closed-back headphones, each with its advantages. Wired headphones like the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro are often preferred by audiophiles and professionals for their consistent sound quality and zero latency. Wireless headphones like the Sony WH-1000XM5 offer the convenience of Bluetooth connectivity without sacrificing much in terms of sound performance.
Bluetooth and Battery Life:
If you choose wireless headphones, make sure they have a long-lasting battery. The Apple AirPods Max and Sony WH-1000XM5 offer 20 to 30 hours of playtime, making them ideal for all-day use.
Detachable Cables:
Some wired headphones, such as the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS, offer detachable cables for added convenience and durability. This feature allows you to replace the cable if it gets damaged, extending the lifespan of your headphones.
Portability and Storage:
If you’re always on the move, portability is another important factor. Closed-back headphones that fold or come with carrying cases can make travel much easier. Lightweight, foldable models like the OneOdio Wired are excellent for users who need to pack their headphones in a bag or case frequently.
Folding Design:
Look for headphones that fold for compact storage, such as the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro, which offers a foldable design that fits neatly into a travel case.
Carrying Case:
Many high-end models come with dedicated carrying cases, protecting the headphones when they’re not in use. The Focal Stellia Closed-Back offers a luxurious storage option for added protection during transport.
Price and Durability:
Price is often a significant deciding factor. While there are budget-friendly options like the OneOdio Wired and Sennheiser HD 280 Pro, high-end models such as the Focal Stellia Closed-Back and Apple AirPods Max are designed for audiophiles and professionals, with superior build quality and sound performance.
Durability:
Look for headphones with durable materials like metal or high-quality plastic. Premium models often feature robust construction, while budget models may use lighter, less durable materials that are more prone to wear and tear.
Purpose and Use Case:
The best closed-back headphones for you will depend on how you plan to use them. Professionals working in a studio environment may prioritize accurate sound reproduction, while gamers or casual listeners may prefer models with enhanced bass or noise cancellation.
Professional Use:
For studio monitoring or audio mixing, accuracy is key. Models like the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS and Sony MDR-7506 offer neutral sound signatures and excellent sound isolation.
Casual Listening:
If you’re looking for headphones for commuting or casual listening, noise-canceling models like the Sony WH-1000XM5 or Apple AirPods Max are ideal, offering superb isolation and wireless convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What are the best closed-back headphones for professional use?
Answer:
For professional use, the Sony MDR-7506 and Sennheiser HD 280 Pro are highly recommended for their accuracy and durability. The Sony MDR-7506 provides a neutral, detailed sound, ideal for studio mixing and critical listening. Its lightweight, foldable design and 10Hz–20kHz frequency response makes it perfect for studio and fieldwork. The Sennheiser HD 280 Pro offers robust noise isolation with a frequency range of 8Hz–25kHz, making it ideal for recording and mixing. Though slightly heavier, its solid build ensures comfort and durability for extended use.
2. Are closed-back headphones durable enough for daily use?
Answer:
Manufacturers design closed-back headphones for durability. This is key for models aimed at professionals or frequent travelers. Look for headphones made with strong materials like reinforced plastic or metal frames. Brands like Sennheiser HD 280 Pro and AKG Pro Audio AKG are built to last and handle everyday use. Some high-end options have replaceable parts, like detachable cables and ear pads. They extend the headphones’ lifespan.
3. Can I use closed-back headphones for gaming?
Answer:
Yes, closed-back headphones are great for gaming. They block distractions and let you focus on the game sounds. Many closed-back headphones, like the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro, deliver clear audio. These headphones let gamers hear quiet sounds, like footsteps. If you want a more realistic and open sound, try open-back models, which have a wider range of sound.
4. Are closed-back headphones good for studio recording and monitoring?
Answer:
Yes, people often use closed-back headphones in studios for recording and monitoring. They block outside noise. So, it won’t interfere with the audio. Audio engineers and producers love the Sony MDR-7506 and Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS. They are popular for their accurate sound and sound isolation. They don’t bleed into microphones during recordings.
5. What should I consider when choosing closed-back headphones for travel?
Answer:
When selecting closed-back headphones for travel, consider factors like noise cancellation, portability, and comfort. Sony WH-1000XM5 is an excellent option for travelers due to its lightweight design and top-tier noise-canceling features. These headphones offer both wireless connectivity and long battery life (up to 30 hours), allowing you to enjoy music or podcasts without interruptions. Additionally, features like foldability and carrying cases enhance portability, making them ideal for frequent travelers.
6. Can I use closed-back headphones for podcasting or voice-over work?
Answer:
Yes, closed-back headphones are great for podcasting and voice-over work. Since they block external noise, they help you focus on your audio without distractions. Sony MDR-7506, Audio-Technica, and ATH-M50xSTS are popular choices for this purpose due to their accurate sound reproduction and noise isolation. These headphones allow you to hear exactly what’s being recorded, making it easier to identify issues during production.
I am Michael a Texas-based recording engineer and sound enthusiast. I contribute to Headphones Pedia’s efforts to educate readers about intriguing new devices and other audio-related issues by drawing on their experience working on several sound projects. I also use AI tools to assist with content creation.
