Icon
HT Shop Now Close Icon

Discover best headphone brands for superior sound experience: Buyer's guide

Last Published on Jul 14, 2023 17:44 IST

Summary:

There are many headphone brands that promise products of great quality. Looking for options? HT Shop Now's buying guide will help you zero in on some. Read on to know more. 


Headphones are one thing we like to carry around wherever we go. Why not get the best experience out of it? Welcome to our comprehensive guide on exploring the best headphone brands for superior sound. If you appreciate the finer nuances of audio quality and want to experience music or other media in its full glory, then you're in the right place. We'll take you on a journey through some of the most reputable and best headphone brands known for their commitment to delivering outstanding sound reproduction.

Whether you're seeking crystal-clear highs, rich and immersive lows, or a balanced and accurate sound signature, we'll introduce you to the brands that consistently prioritise superior sound performance. We have taken into consideration many aspects like sound quality, durability, features and much more to curate the perfect list of headphones for you. Get ready to elevate your listening experience as we delve into the realm of exceptional audio craftsmanship.

1. boAt Rockerz 450

It offers an exceptional playback time with a long battery life of up to 15 hours. Its 40mm dynamic drivers provide all-day immersive HD audio. It is also one of the top headphones brand that offers features like this for a lesser price. With its comfy padded ear cushions and lightweight construction, it has been ergonomically built and structured as an on-ear headset to deliver the optimum user experience. The boAt Rockerz 450 can be connected using AUX and Bluetooth in addition to one other mode making it the best headphones to buy.

Specifications:

  • Voltage: 5Volts
  • Special Features: lightweight
  • Compatible Devices: ‎Mobile, Laptop and Tablet
  • Dimensions: 8 x 18.2 x 17.6 cm
  • Cable feature: Without Cables

Pros

Cons

Long battery life

Cushion Comfort could be better

Impressive Sound Quality 

 

2. Jabra Elite 45h

Jabra 45h wireless over-ear headphones deliver great sound quality and song clarity wherever you listen thanks to the cutting-edge 40mm drivers, the largest this headphone category has to offer. You may make and receive calls while on the road with the help of two-microphone call technology. Additionally, you can get quality and convenience at the push of a button thanks to direct access to Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant with these must buy headphones. These wireless Jabra headphones are made to be extremely portable, collapsible, and lightweight.

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 18.6 x 15.7 x 60.5 cm
  • ‎Compatible Devices: Apple iPad Air 2, Google Nexus 9, Microsoft Surface Pro
  • Material: ‎Plastic, Rubber
  • Weight: 240 g
  • Connector Type: Wireless

Pros

Cons

Best mic and sound quality offered during callsDesign could have been better
App based control and settings 

3. Bose Noise Cancelling 700

With simple access to voice assistants for music, navigation, weather, and more, you can keep your phone in your pocket while keeping your eyes on the outside world. Hours of comfortable listening are possible thanks to the sleek, lightweight stainless-steel headband and the angled ear cups. Keep in touch with the outside world without pulling out your phone, thanks to the simple touch controls on the ear cups.

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 5.08 x 16.51 x 20.32 cm
  • Memory Storage Capacity: 1GB
  • Special Features: Noise Cancelling, Bluetooth, 4 Mic
  • Hardware Interface: 3.5mm Audio
  • Average Battery Life: 20 Hours
  • Material: Stainless Steel

Pros

Cons

Comfort

Cushion's leatherette not great

Rugged metal body

 

4. Sony WH-1000XM4

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), a technology that leads the industry, provides a customised, practically soundproof experience; Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri are all built-in voice assistants that can be used to access music, information, and other services. The WH-1000XM4 optimises noise reduction by adjusting the ambient sound to your activity.

Specification:

  • Model Year: 2019
  • Cable feature: ‎Without Cable
  • Material: ‎Plastic
  • Form Factor: Over-ear
  • Connector Type: Bluetooth 5.0
  • Dimensions: 18.47 x 7.7 x 25.25 cm

Pros

Cons

Active Noise CancellationSweat control is not great
Amazing Motion Gestures 

5. Sennheiser HD 458

For continuous listening enjoyment, use active noise cancellation. Excellent wireless audio with powerful bass and support for high-quality codecs like AAC and AptX Low Latency. Battery life of 30 hours, Maximum charging current is 500 mAh, and total charging duration is about 2 hours. Controls that are simple to use, such as a button for Siri or Google Assistant.

Specification:

  • Dimensions: ‎ 24 x 69 x 2.5 cm
  • Model Year: 2020
  • Compatible devices: All Bluetooth devices
  • Voltage: 1 Volt
  • Cable feature: ‎Detachable
  • Connector Type: Wireless

Pros

Cons

Easy connectivity/ multiple devices connectivityFeels slightly heavy on the head.
Looks and feels premium. 

6. Audio-Technica Ath-M50X

Its sound performance has received high appreciation from professional audio reviewers and prominent audio engineers; Exclusive 45mm large-aperture drivers with voice coils made of copper-clad aluminium wire and rare earth magnets. It has excellent clarity over a wide frequency range and an accurate, deep bass response. The professional-grade earpad and headband material provides greater comfort and durability, and the earcups can be rotated 90 degrees for simple one-ear monitoring.

Specifications:

  • Hardware Platform: Laptop, MP3 Player, Smartphone
  • Microphone format: without mic
  • Headphones form factor: over ear
  • Data Transfer Rate: 5GB/sec
  • Material: Aluminium
  • Weight: ‎285 g

Pros

Cons

Noise cancelling

Comfort levels needs to improve

Sound sealing is excellent.

 

7. JBL Tune 510BT

The JBL Tune 510BT boasts 32mm Dynamic drivers and the famed JBL Pure Bass sound, present in the world's most renowned venues. The Tune 510BT, made for extended playtime, enables uninterrupted wireless listening for up to 40 hours with the right audio settings. With the help of its better USB Type-C charging cable, the Tune 510BT can be fully charged in just two hours after a quick five-minute recharge that gives you up to two hours of entertainment.

Specifications:

  • Model year: ‎2022
  • Dimensions: 27 x 23 x 26 cm
  • Hardware Platform: smartphones
  • ‎Power source: Battery-Powered
  • Microphone technology: stereo
  • Microphone format: Built In

Pros

Cons

 Excellent Noise-Cancelling 

Quite Bulky

Greater Comfortability

 

8. soundcore Anker Life Q10

Anker's audio brand is called Soundcore, and more than 10 million people worldwide adore its distinctive sound. The Hi-Res logo, given to audio equipment that can provide a highly accurate depiction of what the artist intended to be heard, guarantees great audio quality. Life Q10 offers sound up to 40 kHz for the richest listening experience, unlike premium headphones. Larger 40mm dynamic drivers enable a 100% increase in bass output. The wireless over-ear headphones' right earcup has a button that turns on BassUp.

Specifications:

  • Hardware platform: Laptop, PC, Tablet, Smartphone
  • Voltage: ‎5 Volts
  • Cable feature: Without Cable
  • Maximum Operating Distance: 20 m
  • Material: Q20 Black
Pros

Cons

Long-lasting battery

Connectivity can be a little spotty

Sturdiness/Build Quality

 

9. Skullcandy Riff

The Skullcandy Riff Wireless 2 On-Ear Headphones in Black are a popular choice for those seeking a budget-friendly option with wireless capabilities. It has built-in technology for locating tiles. The battery life is 34 hours. Track, Call, and Volume Control using the headphones. Through the Skullcandy App, you can access advanced features.

Specifications:

  • Model year: 2022
  • Dimension: 18.5 x 14 x 7.9 cm
  • Hardware Platform: Laptop
  • Item Weight: 153 g

Pros

Cons

Greater sound quality

Adjustable sliders can be better

Comfortable cushion 

 

Top 3 features for you

ProductFeature 1Feature 2Feature 3
boAt Rockerz 450Light WeightLong Battery LifeDual Mode
Jabra Elite 45hSoft And foldableOutstanding ComfortLight Weight
Bose Noise Cancelling 700Super ComfortsLight WeightVoice Assistance
Sony WH-1000XM4Battery SaverGreat ComfortBluetooth 5.0
Sennheiser HD 458Impressive BatteryNoise CancellingGood Product Finish
Audio-Technica Ath-M50XGreat DesignBuild QualityExcellent Performance
JBL Tune 510BTDual PairingFoldable,Wireless Bluetooth 5.0
soundcore Anker Life Q10Fast ChargingSound QualitySturdiness/Build Quality
Skullcandy RiffMicrophone IncludedProduct Quality,Comfortable

Best overall product

When it comes to determining the best overall product from the vast range of headphones available, it's important to consider several factors, such as sound quality, comfort, design, durability, and features. While individual preferences may vary, one best headphone brand that consistently receives high praise across these categories is the Sony WH-1000XM4. The Sony WH-1000XM4 is a wireless over-ear headphone that excels in various aspects, making it a top contender for the best headphone brand overall product.

Best value for money

When seeking the best value for money in headphones, it's crucial to consider the balance between price and the quality of features and performance offered. While individual preferences may vary, one best headphone to buy model that consistently delivers excellent value for money is the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x at a price of Rs. 12,499.

How to find the best headphone brands?

To find the best headphone brands for superior sound, you can follow these steps:

1. Research and Read Reviews: Look for professional reviews, customer feedback, and comparisons to get an idea of the best headphone brands that consistently deliver excellent audio performance.

2. Consider Audio Preferences: Understanding your sound preferences will help you narrow down best headphone brands that align with your desired audio experience.

3. Explore Brand Reputation: Consider the reputation and history of different best headphone brands. Best headphone brands with a longstanding presence in the industry often have a track record of producing high-quality products. Look for best headphone brands with positive reviews and well-regarded among audio enthusiasts and professionals.

4. Check for Technical Specifications: Pay attention to the must buy headphones' technical specifications. Look for frequency response, driver size, impedance, and sensitivity features.

FAQs on best headphone brands

Generally, high-quality drivers, accurate frequency response, effective noise isolation or cancellation, and meticulous engineering and tuning typically achieve superior sound quality in headphones. Best headphone brands invest in research and development to ensure their headphones deliver a balanced, detailed, and immersive audio experience.
Price is not always an indicator of sound quality. While some high-end headphone brands offer exceptional sound performance, there are also the best headphone brands that provide excellent audio quality at more affordable prices.
Wireless headphone technology has improved significantly, allowing for high-quality audio transmission. While there may still be subtle differences between wireless and wired headphones, top headphone brands now offer wireless models that provide exceptional sound quality.
Both brand reputation and technical specifications are important considerations. A reputable brand with a history of producing premium headphones can provide confidence in sound performance.
Online reviews can be a reliable resource for gathering insights and opinions from others. However, it's essential to approach them with some caution. Look for reviews from reputable sources or trusted reviewers who thoroughly understand audio quality. It's also beneficial to try out the best headphones brands for yourself whenever possible to form your judgement based on your experience with headphones for immersive listening.
Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so ... we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority. Read more

Get Latest Updates on Best Electronics Deals. Mobiles , Laptops , Tablets , Gadgets and Computer Accessories