10 Best Over The Ear Headphones 2025 in the United States

The Beats Studio Pro wireless Bluetooth headphones deliver impressive sound quality thanks to BEATS' custom acoustic platform, making them suitable for music lovers and those who frequently take calls. The inclusion of lossless audio via USB-C and three distinct built-in sound profiles further enhances the listening experience. These headphones provide two listening modes: adaptive Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) for immersive sound and Transparency mode to stay aware of surroundings, perfect for varied environments. The personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking offers a unique 360-degree listening experience, adding to the immersive quality of the sound.

With up to 40 hours of battery life and a quick 10-minute charge providing 4 additional hours, the Beats Studio Pro is reliable for extended use. The headphones also feature on-device controls for easy music and call management and Class 1 Bluetooth for a robust wireless connection with minimal dropouts. Compatibility with both Apple and Android devices makes them versatile for different users. The weight of 260g and the faux leather material may affect long-term comfort, but the over-ear design generally offers a good fit. Built-in voice-targeting mics ensure clear call quality by filtering background noise.

However, the headphones are not water-resistant, which could be a drawback for users planning to use them during workouts or in adverse weather conditions. The included carrying case, USB-C charging cable, and 3.5mm audio cable add value to the package. The Beats Studio Pro headphones are a strong choice for users prioritizing sound quality, noise cancellation, and battery life, though their non-water-resistant design and potential comfort issues over long periods should be considered.

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones offer a combination of excellent sound quality and advanced noise cancellation technology. With high-fidelity audio and adjustable EQ controls, users can enjoy deep bass and rich sound across a wide frequency range. The headphones are designed for comfort, featuring plush earcup cushions and a padded headband, making them suitable for long listening sessions. An impressive battery life of up to 24 hours ensures they can last through extended use, and a quick 15-minute charge provides an additional 2.5 hours of playtime, which is highly convenient for on-the-go users.

Connectivity is versatile with Bluetooth multipoint technology, allowing seamless switching between devices without the need to disconnect and reconnect each time. The option to use a wired connection via the included audio cable adds to their flexibility, especially when the battery is low or when Bluetooth is not available. However, it's important to note that these headphones are not water-resistant, which might be a drawback for users who need them for outdoor activities or in rainy conditions.

The Bose app supports the headphones with software updates and additional features, enhancing the user's experience. While the construction is primarily plastic, which may raise concerns about long-term durability, the lightweight design ensures they are easy to wear. These headphones are best suited for individuals seeking premium sound quality, effective noise cancellation, and long-term comfort for extended listening periods.

The Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Premium Noise Canceling Overhead Headphones are a top choice in the over-the-ear headphones category, especially for users looking for high-quality sound and advanced features. One of the standout features is the active noise cancellation, which uses Dual Noise Sensor technology to effectively block out ambient noise, making them ideal for noisy environments. The sound quality is excellent, with the DSEE Extreme technology upscaling compressed digital music files in real-time for a richer listening experience.

Comfort is another strong point, with an updated design that relieves pressure, making them suitable for long listening sessions. The battery life is impressive, offering up to 30 hours on a single charge, and the quick charge feature provides 5 hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge. Connectivity is seamless with Bluetooth 5.0 and multipoint connection, allowing for easy switching between devices. The touch sensor controls are intuitive, enabling users to manage playback, volume, and calls effortlessly. Additional features like speak-to-chat, wearing detection, and superior call quality with five built-in microphones add to the convenience and user experience.

They are not water-resistant, which limits their use in wet conditions. Additionally, they are relatively lightweight at 9 ounces, but some users might find the plastic material less premium compared to metal alternatives. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Sony WH-1000XM4 remains a highly recommended option for those seeking a combination of excellent sound quality, advanced noise cancellation, and comfortable design for everyday use.