If you find yourself binge-watching movies during the colder months, having the right gear can make all the difference.
However, choosing the best headphones for movies can be overwhelming with so many options—whether you want surround-sound immersion, Bluetooth comfort, or a balance between both.
The wrong choice can ruin your movie experience with poor sound quality or discomfort during extended use.
So, how do you pick the perfect headphones for an immersive movie experience?
We’ve done the legwork for you! As “Headphones Experts,” we evaluated 35 headphones over 4 months to find the best options for every need — be it surround sound, Bluetooth convenience, or multi-device compatibility.
Here are our top 7 picks for the best movie headphones in 2024, each excelling in different categories to ensure a top-notch movie-watching experience.
Roundup of the Best Headphones for Movies and TV
| Best Overall Headphones for Movies | Sony WH-1000XM5 The Best Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones |
| Best for Home Theater | Sennheiser Consumer Audio RS 195 RF |
| Best for Range and Clarity | Sennheiser Consumer Audio RS 175 RF |
| Best for Sound Isolation | Shure AONIC 50 Gen 2 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones |
| Best for Comfort | Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones |
| Best for Battery Life | 1MORE SonoFlow Active Noise Cancelling Headphones |
| Best for Professional Use | Sony MDR7506 |
6 Key Factors to Consider When Looking for the Best Headphones for Movies and TV
When it comes to finding the right headphones for watching movies and TV, there are several critical factors to consider. Here’s a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision:
1. Sound Quality
Sound quality is the most important factor when choosing headphones for movies and TV. Here are some aspects to consider:
- Surround Sound Support: If you’re looking for a truly immersive experience, consider headphones that support surround sound formats like Dolby Atmos or DTS. These can make action scenes more intense and dialog clearer by mimicking a multi-speaker setup.
- Noise Isolation and Noise Cancellation: Consider whether you want noise isolation (passive blocking of outside noise) or active noise cancellation (ANC), which electronically reduces ambient sounds. ANC is especially useful for immersive movie experiences in noisy environments.
- Bass Response: Some users prefer bass-heavy headphones to feel the rumble of explosions and other low-frequency effects. If you enjoy action movies or thrillers, consider models that emphasize strong bass.
- Frequency Range and Clarity: Look for headphones with a wide frequency range (20 Hz – 20 kHz) to capture deep bass, clear mids, and sparkling highs, ensuring that dialog is crisp and sound effects are detailed.
2. Comfort and Fit
Comfort is crucial, especially for long movie-watching sessions. Here’s what to look for:
- Ear Cup Padding: Opt for headphones with well-cushioned, memory foam ear cups that are soft and provide a snug fit without putting too much pressure on your ears.
- Headband Adjustability: Adjustable headbands help in achieving the right fit for different head sizes and reduce fatigue during extended use.
- Weight and Material: Lightweight headphones made of quality materials like aluminum or flexible plastic can reduce strain on the head and neck. Heavy headphones can cause discomfort over prolonged periods.
- Breathable Materials: Ensure that the ear pads are made from breathable materials, especially if you plan to wear them for long sessions, to avoid sweaty ears.
3. Wired or Wireless
The choice between wired and wireless headphones depends on your preference and setup:
- Wireless Headphones: These are great for those who value mobility and convenience. Bluetooth headphones provide flexibility, while RF (Radio Frequency) headphones offer a more stable connection and are typically better for home theater setups. Consider battery life and charging options if you opt for wireless.
- Wired Headphones: Wired options generally provide a more stable connection and better audio fidelity. They are often preferred by audiophiles who want uninterrupted, high-quality sound. Make sure the cable is long enough to reach your audio source comfortably.
4. Battery Life
For wireless headphones, battery life is a key consideration:
- Playback Time: Look for headphones that provide a minimum of 15-20 hours of playback time on a single charge, ensuring they last through a binge-watching session without needing to be recharged.
- Charging Options: Some wireless headphones come with fast-charging features, allowing you to quickly top up the battery when needed.
5. Connectivity Options
Ensure the headphones are compatible with your TV or other devices:
- Bluetooth: Modern TVs and streaming devices often support Bluetooth. If you have a smart TV, Bluetooth headphones might be a good choice.
- RF Transmitters: Some wireless headphones come with an RF transmitter base that connects to your TV, offering a wider range and more stable connection.
- Wired Connections: For wired headphones, check for the type of audio jack or adapter needed, especially if you have newer devices that may not have a standard headphone jack.
6. Additional Features
Consider any extra features that could enhance your listening experience:
Multi-Device Pairing: For seamless switching between devices, some headphones allow you to connect to multiple devices simultaneously.ther factors given in our Headphones Buying Guide, to make an informed purchase.
Built-in Microphones and Voice Assistants: Some headphones come with built-in microphones, allowing you to take calls or use voice assistants.
Customizable Sound Profiles and Equalizers: Headphones with companion apps may offer customizable EQ settings, allowing you to adjust sound profiles to suit your preferences.
7 Best Headphones for Movies and TV to Keep Your Entertained
Here are the detailed accounts of our experiences with each of the top 7 movie headphones on the market.
1. Sony WH-1000XM5 The Best Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones
Overall Best
What Impressed Us
- Excellent noise-canceling capabilities
- Comfortable and lightweight design
- Intuitive controls and smart technologies
- Good sound quality with a balanced signature
- Long battery life
- Improved voice call quality
What Disappointed Us
- Expensive
Sony WH-1000XM5 is celebrated as the overall best due to its superior noise-canceling capabilities and exceptional audio fidelity, making it ideal for an immersive movie and TV watching experience.
This model stands out with its industry-leading noise cancellation technology, which effectively isolates you from external disturbances, allowing for a pure and uninterrupted listening experience.
These headphones are not only about noise cancellation; they offer incredible sound quality with crisp highs, detailed mids, and deep bass, enhancing the auditory experience of any film or show. They are equipped with LDAC codec support, ensuring high-resolution audio performance over Bluetooth.
Comfort is paramount with the WH-1000XM5, featuring plush ear pads and a lightweight design that allows for extended viewing sessions without fatigue. Additionally, they boast an impressive battery life of up to 30 hours with noise cancellation active, ensuring you can binge-watch without needing a charge.
In conclusion, the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are a top choice for any cinephile seeking the best audio experience with unmatched noise cancellation, comfort, and sound quality, enhancing every movie night.
View on Amazon: Sony WH-1000XM5 The Best Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones
2. Sennheiser Consumer Audio RS 195 RF
Best for Home Theater
What Impressed Us
- Wireless convenience
- Customizable sound
- Comfortable design
- Exceptional sound quality
- Long battery life
- Included transmitter base doubles up as a charging station
What Disappointed Us
- High price
- Not truly portable
The Sennheiser RS 195 RF headphones are tailored for home theater enthusiasts, offering exceptional wireless sound quality that can rival high-end dedicated surround sound systems. They are specifically designed to enhance the clarity of dialogue and the overall dynamics of the audio track.
These headphones come with a feature that allows users to adjust the sound profile according to their hearing preference, which is particularly beneficial for those who may have slight hearing impairments. The closed-back design provides excellent acoustic isolation, keeping the audio immersive and personal.
With comfortable, oversized ear cups, the RS 195 RF can be worn for hours of movie marathons without discomfort. They operate on RF technology, offering a robust connection that doesn’t suffer from the typical interference found in Bluetooth systems, and they have a range of up to 100 meters.
In summary, the Sennheiser RS 195 RF headphones are the perfect companion for home theater lovers, combining cutting-edge technology with user-friendly features to deliver a cinematic audio experience right in the comfort of your living room.
View on Amazon: Sennheiser Consumer Audio RS 195 RF
3. Sennheiser Consumer Audio RS 175 RF
Best for Range and Clarity
What Impressed Us
- Excellent sound quality with strong bass and clear dialogue
- Comfortable, closed-back design for immersive listening
- Long battery life and convenient recharging system
- Easy to operate with intuitive controls
- Supports both analog and digital inputs
What Disappointed Us
- Limited range and line-of-sight requirements
- Not suitable for outdoor use or commuting
Sennheiser’s RS 175 RF headphones stand out as the best choice for range and clarity, offering a crystal-clear audio experience with an impressive wireless range. Designed for audiophiles who do not want to compromise on sound quality, these headphones provide a detailed and balanced sound signature.
Equipped with a digital wireless technology, the RS 175 RF ensures that signal transmission remains clear and accurate, allowing you to move freely in your living space without losing audio quality. The headphones feature multiple listening modes, including Bass Boost and Surround Sound, to enhance your audio experience depending on the content.
The design focuses on comfort and ease of use, with intuitive controls located directly on the headphones. They also come with a multi-purpose transmitter that doubles as a charging station, ensuring the headphones are always ready to use.
Concluding, the Sennheiser RS 175 RF headphones are ideal for those who appreciate sharp audio clarity and the freedom to move around, making them a superb option for enjoying movies and TV without being tethered to one spot.
View on Amazon: Sennheiser Consumer Audio RS 175 RF
4. Shure AONIC 50 Gen 2 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
Best for Sound Isolation
What Impressed Us
- Excellent sound quality with a balanced signature
- Comfortable and durable design
- Advanced noise cancellation technology
- Long battery life
- Supports high-resolution USB digital audio
What Disappointed Us
- Not very portable due to the lack of folding hinges
- Noise cancellation may not be as effective in certain environments
The Shure AONIC 50 Gen 2 headphones excel in sound isolation, providing an enveloping audio experience that lets you dive deep into movies and TV shows. With advanced noise-cancelling technology, these headphones effectively block out ambient noise, ensuring that every detail of the soundtrack is heard without interruption.
Renowned for their studio-quality sound, the AONIC 50 Gen 2 headphones deliver precise and balanced audio, with an emphasis on accurate reproduction of soundtracks as intended by the creators. The wireless connectivity does not compromise audio quality, thanks to support for high-resolution codecs like aptX, AAC, and LDAC.
Designed with premium materials, these headphones offer supreme comfort and durability, suitable for extended wear during long viewing sessions. The controls are intuitively placed for easy adjustment of volume, tracks, and calls without needing to reach for your device.
In summary, the Shure AONIC 50 Gen 2 headphones are outstanding for their superior sound isolation and studio-quality audio. They provide a personal listening space that enhances the enjoyment of every movie or show, making them a top choice for privacy and high fidelity.
View on Amazon: Shure AONIC 50 Gen 2 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
5. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
Best for Comfort
What Impressed Us
- Excellent noise-canceling capabilities
- Comfortable and lightweight design
- Intuitive controls and smart technologies
- Good sound quality with a balanced signature
- Long battery life
What Disappointed Us
- Plastic-and-leatherette build may not be as durable as metal-enhanced alternatives
Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones are renowned for their exceptional comfort, making them perfect for extended movie-watching sessions. These headphones feature Bose’s acclaimed noise cancelling technology, which effectively diminishes background noise and allows you to immerse fully in your viewing experience.
The sound quality is top-notch, with clear highs, detailed mids, and deep bass, ensuring that every sound in your movie or TV show is crisply reproduced. The ANC feature can be adjusted to your environment, providing the right level of noise cancellation as needed.
The headphones are designed with plush ear cushions and a lightweight, ergonomic design that minimizes pressure and fits snugly. The battery life is impressive, offering up to 20 hours of wireless playtime with noise cancelling on, and they can be quickly charged for 15 minutes to get 2.5 hours of playback.
In conclusion, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones offer unparalleled comfort without sacrificing sound quality or noise cancellation capabilities. They are ideal for those who value comfort above all else in their movie-watching experience, providing a luxurious and immersive auditory experience.
View on Amazon: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
6. 1MORE SonoFlow Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
Best for Battery Life
What Impressed Us
- Excellent noise-canceling performance
- Good sound quality with a balanced signature
- Long battery life (up to 70 hours)
- Comfortable and lightweight design
- Affordable price
What Disappointed Us
- Build quality could be better (plastic construction)
- No custom EQ in the app
1MORE SonoFlow headphones are distinguished as the best option for long battery life, essential for extended binge-watching sessions. With up to 70 hours of playtime with ANC off and 50 hours with ANC on, these headphones allow you to enjoy week-long viewing without frequent recharges.
These headphones feature active noise cancellation that effectively blocks out external noise, providing a focused and intimate listening experience. The sound profile is balanced with a slight emphasis on bass, making them great for both movies and music.
The comfort level is high with soft, breathable ear cushions that remain comfortable over long periods. The headphones also support LDAC for high-resolution audio streaming over Bluetooth, ensuring you get the best sound quality available.
In conclusion, the 1MORE SonoFlow headphones are a stellar choice for anyone looking for headphones that combine long battery life with high-quality audio and effective noise cancellation. They are perfect for movie lovers and TV binge-watchers who need dependable, long-lasting headphones.
View on Amazon: 1MORE SonoFlow Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
7. Sony MDR7506
Best for Professional Use
What Impressed Us
- Detailed sound with a well-balanced frequency response
- Comfortable fit with a wide headband and earcups that fit snugly around the ears
- Durable build that can withstand regular use
- Affordable price point
- Good for monitoring live recordings and analytical listening
What Disappointed Us
- No active noise cancellation (ANC) technology
- Poor soundstage performance can make audio sound closed off
The Sony MDR7506 headphones are a classic choice best suited for professional use, thanks to their accurate sound reproduction and robust build quality. These headphones are a staple in many professional recording studios and are perfect for those who want to enjoy movies and TV with studio-grade sound.
The MDR7506 delivers exceptionally clear and detailed sound, with a flat frequency response that ensures you hear the audio exactly as it was intended. This makes them ideal for critically listening to movies and shows, particularly for those interested in sound design and scoring.
Built for durability, these headphones have a rugged design with a closed-back earcup that provides good passive noise isolation. They are lightweight, making them comfortable for long sessions, and come with a coiled cable that minimizes tangles.
In conclusion, the Sony MDR7506 headphones are an excellent choice for movie and TV enthusiasts who appreciate high fidelity sound. Their professional-grade audio quality and durable construction make them a reliable option for anyone looking for a more critical listening experience.
View on Amazon: Sony MDR7506
Frequently Asked Questions About Headphones for Watching Movies and TV
Yes, you can use wireless headphones to watch TV and movies. If your TV is a smart TV and supports Bluetooth, you can easily connect Bluetooth headphones to the TV and use them. However, if your TV does not support Bluetooth, you can buy wireless headphones that comprise a Bluetooth transmitter or wireless transmitter to connect your headphones to the TV.
Yes, gaming headphones can be suitable for movies as they offer immersive audio, deep bass, and surround sound effects that enhance the viewing experience, especially for action scenes. They are also designed for comfort during long sessions.
However, some gaming headsets may emphasize bass and treble, which might not be ideal for all movie genres. Look for models with customizable sound profiles to better balance audio for both dialogue and action. If noise cancellation and comfort are priorities, gaming headphones can be a good choice for movie watching.
You can use wireless headphones to watch TV and movies without disturbing others.
You can use the best HDMI audio extractor comprising two RCA output jacks (to connect your TV) on one side and one female jack on the other side (to connect your headphones).
Final Words
After careful consideration and review of the top headphones for movies and TV in 2024, it’s clear that the Sony WH-1000XM5 and the Sennheiser Consumer Audio RS 195 RF emerge as the standout choices for any cinephile or series enthusiast.
The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are unparalleled in their ability to deliver an immersive audio experience with their industry-leading noise cancellation and exceptional sound quality. They are perfect for viewers who want to lose themselves completely in the cinematic world, free from external distractions, ensuring every whisper and explosion is heard in crystal clarity.
On the other hand, the Sennheiser RS 195 RF is specifically tailored for home theater enthusiasts, offering exceptional wireless sound that enhances both dialogue clarity and overall audio dynamics, making them ideal for watching movies and TV shows. Their specialized features cater to those with nuanced listening needs, providing customizable sound profiles that can enhance audio based on personal hearing preferences.
Both options offer superior performance and sophisticated features that significantly enhance viewing experiences, making them excellent choices whether you’re diving into the latest blockbuster hit or catching up on your favorite TV series.
Take your time, research thoroughly and pick the option that best suits your requirement. We sincerely hope you found our guide on the best movie headphones in 2024 useful. If you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free to drop them in the comment section below.
