Looking to take your audio game to the next level in 2025? Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or just diving into the world of high-fidelity sound, planar magnetic headphones are the talk of the town these days.
Unlike regular headphones, planar magnetic models use a thin, lightweight diaphragm between magnetic fields to produce precise, distortion-free audio.
In this list, we’re breaking down the best planar magnetic headphones of 2025, handpicked for sound quality, comfort, and value. Whether you’re looking for your next critical listening setup or simply want the best sound your budget can buy, we’ve got you covered.
Ready to hear the difference? Let’s dive into the best planar magnetic headphones you can get in 2025.
How Does Planar Magnetic Technology Work?
Why do planar magnetic headphones get so much hype? It’s all in the way they work.
Unlike regular dynamic headphones with a cone-shaped driver, planar magnetic models use an ultra-thin, flat diaphragm suspended between magnets. When sound passes through, it creates a magnetic field that causes the diaphragm to move, producing sound.
Unlike dynamic drivers, which rely on a single coil to push air through a cone, planar magnetic drivers move the entire diaphragm evenly. This results in more accurate sound reproduction with significantly less distortion.
Compared to electrostatic drivers-which offer similar clarity but need special, expensive amps, planar magnetic headphones deliver high-end performance in a more practical setup.
So, are they worth the investment? If you love music, crave detail, or want a more immersive listening experience, then yes-they are. Planar magnetic headphones bring your favourite tracks to life in a way standard headphones simply can’t.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Planar Magnetic Headphones
Choosing the perfect planar magnetic headphones isn’t just about picking the most expensive model. It’s about finding what suits your needs, setup, and sound preferences. Here’s what to look for specifically when buying planar magnetic headphones in 2025:
1. Magnet Structure and Diaphragm Quality: High-end models use double-sided magnet arrays and ultra-thin diaphragms for better control, faster response, and lower distortion. Look for brands that highlight their diaphragm technology, as it makes a real difference in clarity and soundstage.
2. Efficiency and Power Requirements: Planar magnetic headphones are typically less efficient than dynamic ones. Check the sensitivity (db) and impedance (ohms). If you’re not using a powerful amp or DAC, choose a model designed for easy driving.
3. Build Quality and Comfort: Planar headphones can be heavier due to their magnet structure. Look for a lightweight chassis, memory foam ear pads, and adjustable suspension headbands to avoid fatigue during long sessions.
4. Open-Back vs Closed-Back Design: Open-back planar headphones (like the Audeze LCD-X) offer superior soundstage and imaging but leak sound. Closed-back models (like the Monoprice M1070C) are better for portable or shared spaces.
5. Use Case and Budget: Choose a model that matches your needs and sound preferences. In 2025, there are great options for every budget, from affordable models under $500 to premium audiophile headphones.
Quick Overview of the Best Planar Magnetic Headphones
The 8 best planar magnetic headphones in 2025 are:
| Overall Best | Audeze LCD-5 |
| Best for Audiophile Performance at a Premium Price | HiFiMan HE-1000 SE |
| Best Closed-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones | Audeze LCD-XC |
| Best Budget Planar Magnetic Headphones | Monolith M1570 by Monoprice |
| Best Wireless Planar Magnetic Earphones | Moondrop Golden Ages TWS |
| Best Planar Headphones for Studio & Mixing | Audeze MM-100 |
| Best Open-Back Soundstage Experience | HiFiMan Arya Stealth |
| Best Planar Magnetic Headphones for Gaming & Everyday Use | Audeze Maxwell |
In-Depth Look: Top 8 Best Planar Magnetic Headphones in 2025
Let’s take a detailed look at the 8 best planar magnetic headphones, assessing their magnet structure, sound quality, and overall ease of wear.
1. Audeze LCD-5
Overall Best
- Extremely low distortion
- Wide, detailed soundstage
- Lightweight for its class
- High diaphragm control
- Impressive bass extension
- Expensive
- Requires quality amplification
- Open-back limits portability
- Lower sensitivity than dynamic
- Niche use case (audiophile)
If you’re looking for the best overall planar magnetic headphones, the Audeze LCD-5 stands out from everything we’ve evaluated. We’ve deeply evaluated top-tier planar magnetic models, and the LCD-5 consistently came out on top. Why? Because it nails everything that matters: sound quality, comfort, innovation, and build.
What impressed us is how Audeze has refined its tech over the years. The Fluxor magnets and Nano-Scale Parallel Uniforce diaphragm work together to deliver a sound that’s incredibly detailed and accurate, making every note feel clean, fast, and natural.
From a magnet structure and diaphragm quality standpoint, it’s top-tier. Add to that the low weight (just 420g) and a premium mix of magnesium and carbon fibre, and you’ve got a headphone that’s not just sonically excellent but also super comfortable for long sessions.
It doesn’t need a ton of power to sound good, but pairing the LCD-5 with a quality amp brings out its full potential. And since it’s an open-back design, it is best for home or studio use rather than travel.
But if you’re after that next-level detail, depth, and realism in your music, the LCD-5 is easily the most complete planar magnetic listening experience we’ve come across.
View on Amazon: Audeze LCD-5
2. HiFiMan HE-1000 SE
Best for Audiophile Performance at a Premium Price
- Ultra-thin nanometer diaphragm
- Stealth magnets reduce distortion
- Excellent frequency response range
- Premium build and finish
- Comfortable for long sessions
- Expensive for casual listeners
- Needs quality amplification
- Bulky, not travel-friendly
- No noise isolation (open-back)
- Heavier than some competitors
Among today’s top-tier planar magnetic headphones, the HiFiMan HE-1000 SE represents the gold standard for audiophile-grade sound at a premium price point. Planar technology is known for delivering exceptional detail, clarity, and speed, and this headphone showcases all those traits with masterful execution and justifies its price tag.
After careful assessment, the HE-1000 SE earns our recommendation due to its nanometer-thickness diaphragm, which enables extraordinary detail retrieval and low distortion. The acoustically transparent stealth magnets reduce wave diffraction, preserving the integrity of the sound.
With an efficient 35-ohm impedance and 96 db sensitivity, it’s surprisingly easy to drive for a planar design. The build quality is luxurious and ergonomic, with asymmetrical ear cups and metal CNC construction adding to both comfort and durability.
Its open-back design provides a spacious soundstage, making it ideal for home listening.
View on Amazon: HiFiMan HE-1000 SE
3. Audeze LCD-XC
Best Closed-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones
- Exceptional sound isolation
- High efficiency, easy to drive
- Ultra-thin diaphragm accuracy
- Neodymium magnets, strong output
- Excellent studio-grade build
- Heavier-than-average headphones
- Premium price point
- Less spatial than open-back
- Slightly bulky for portable use
- Limited soundstage (compared to open-back)
We evaluated numerous models for their sound fidelity, efficiency, and isolation, and the LCD-XC emerged as the most balanced choice for professionals seeking reference-grade closed-back performance. What sets it apart is how closely it mimics the spatial clarity of top-tier open-back models-something rarely achieved in closed-back designs.
The LCD-XC’s patented powerful neodymium magnets, Fazor waveguides, and Ultra-Thin Uniforce diaphragm contribute to an incredibly precise and detailed sound signature.
Its high efficiency and 20-ohm impedance allow it to be driven effectively even by basic interfaces, making it highly versatile for both studio and portable use.
We also noted the exceptional build quality and comfort, with a lighter frame, plush ear pads, and a suspension headband that ensures fatigue-free extended listening sessions.
While its closed-back design provides professional-level isolation for recording and mixing, it maintains an open-back-like spatiality that is rare in this category. Check out other best headphones for professional mixing here.
View on Amazon: Audeze LCD-XC
4. Monolith M1570 by Monoprice
Best Budget Planar Magnetic Headphones
- Wide 106mm planar drivers
- Dual linear magnet array
- Rich, neutral sound signature
- Great imaging, airy soundstage
- Excellent value for the price
- Can feel heavy on the head
- Needs good amplification
- Earpads are hard to swap
- Bulky for portable use
- Loose fit when moving
Monoprice has become something of a quiet giant in the audiophile space, especially among planar magnetic headphone fans. While they’ve long been associated with affordable gear, the release of the Monolith M1570 took things to a whole new level.
After evaluating dozens of planar models, we found the M1570 delivers sound quality, build, and comfort that rival headphones in the $1000+ range-yet it comes in at just $399.99.
We’re not exaggerating when we say the 106mm planar driver with dual linear symmetry magnets delivers a wide soundstage, rich mids, crisp highs, and tight, controlled bass.
With a sensitivity of 96 db and 60-ohm impedance, the Monolith M1570 works best with a good DAC/amp setup. However, we still got pretty good volume even from a high-end smartphone, showing they’re more efficient than the numbers suggest.
In terms of build and comfort, these headphones are solid and durable, yet still feel premium. The soft lambskin and velour ear pads, padded headband, and sturdy metal parts give them a luxurious feel. They are definitely on the heavier side at 700g, but that weight comes with a strong, high-quality design that looks and feels like expensive gear..
For anyone looking to experience true planar magnetic sound without spending $1000+, the Monolith M1570 is easily one of the best value picks on the market. Monoprice has once again proven you don’t need to compromise on quality to stay within budget.
View on Amazon: Monolith M1570
5. Moondrop Golden Ages TWS
Best Wireless Planar Magnetic Earphones
- Rich planar magnetic sound
- Low-latency game mode
- Excellent ANC tuning
- High-res codec support
- Custom bass tuning
- Closed-back limits soundstage
- Slightly short battery life
- No EQ for mids/highs
- Not ideal for wired use
When it comes to naming the best wireless planar magnetic earphones, the Moondrop Golden Ages easily earn that spot. Planar magnetic drivers in a truly wireless format are rare, and Moondrop has managed to pull it off beautifully.
After evaluating and comparing several options, these stood out for their exact detail, low distortion, and wide frequency response. The addition of LDAC support means you get near-lossless audio quality over Bluetooth-something audiophiles will appreciate.
From a planar magnetic headphone perspective, we were particularly impressed with the driver design and diaphragm performance. The 13mm planar drivers deliver punchy yet controlled bass, and you can even tweak it to your liking with three bass tuning options through the Moondrop Link 2.0 app.
The noise cancelation is strong too-offering up to 44 db reduction without muddying the audio, thanks to a clever feedforward-only ANC approach.
They’re also comfortable and well-built, ideal for everyday use. Even though they’re closed-back, the soundstage feels wide enough for immersive listening. Most importantly, they don’t need extra power to shine- just pair and play. If you’re looking for a wireless set of earbuds that genuinely taps into the magic of planar sound, the Golden Ages are it.
View on Amazon: Moondrop Golden Ages TWS
6. Audeze MM-100
Best Planar Headphones for Studio and& Mixing
- Studio-grade accurate tuning
- Durable metal-magnesium build
- Comfortable gel ear pads
- Efficient, low power needs
- Open-back soundstage clarity
- Not ideal for travel
- Slightly heavy (475 g)
- Needs quality source gear
- Non-detachable cable design
When it comes to picking the best planar magnetic headphones for studio and mixing, the Audeze MM-100 stands out as a top choice. We’ve assessed this model specifically from a DJ and studio production standpoint, and what impressed us is how these headphones bring professional-grade clarity and accuracy into a more accessible price range. Have a look at the 8 best DJ headphones in 2025.
The MM-100 uses the same core planar magnetic technology, like Audeze’s Fluxor™ magnet arrays and Ultra-Thin Uniforce™ diaphragms found in their higher-end models, which means you get studio-level detail and definition.
They’re also incredibly comfortable for long sessions, thanks to the gel-filled ear pads and lightweight magnesium and steel frame. And with a sensitivity of 98 db and just 18 ohms impedance, you don’t need a high-end amp to get the best out of them.
The open-back design gives a wide, natural soundstage, which is great for referencing but something to keep in mind if you’re in a noisy space. Overall, at $399, the MM-100 feels like a no-brainer if you’re looking for studio-accurate planar magnetic headphones built for both precision and comfort.
View on Amazon: Audeze MM-100
7. HiFiMan Arya Stealth
Best Open-Back Soundstage Experience
- Exceptional soundstage depth
- Low-distortion planar drivers
- Acoustically invisible magnet design
- Comfortable for long sessions
- Replaceable 3.5 mm cable
- Requires a powerful amplifier
- No noise isolation
- Not portable for outdoors
- Premium price tag
When choosing the best headphones for an open-back soundstage experience, the HiFiMan Arya Stealth earns the top spot in the planar magnetic category.
Open-back headphones are loved for their ability to create a wide, airy soundstage, and the Arya Stealth takes that to another level. Thanks to its stealth magnet design, which minimises interference and distortion, the sound feels spacious and incredibly natural, like you’re sitting in the room with the artist.
The nanometer-thin diaphragm makes it special, allowing it to handle complex tracks effortlessly and revealing details that most headphones miss.
Despite its 35-ohm impedance and 94 db sensitivity, it still benefits from a good amp to unlock its full potential-but that’s pretty typical for high-end planar models. It’s also thoughtfully built, combining metal and high-grade plastic for a design that feels sturdy without being uncomfortable during long listening sessions.
View on Amazon: HiFiMan Arya Stealth
8. Audeze Maxwell
Best Planar Magnetic Headphones for Gaming and Everyday Use
- Exceptional driver size (90mm)
- Studio-grade sound accuracy
- 80hr+ battery with fast charge
- Ultra-low latency wireless
- Durable metal-reinforced build
- Slightly heavy (490g)
- Closed-back limits soundstage
- Premium price point
- No ANC (passive only)
- Dolby Atmos Xbox-only
From a planar magnetic headphones perspective, we’ve evaluated the Audeze Maxwell in the context of gaming and everyday use, and confidently recommend it as the best in class.
The Maxwell stands out due to its award-winning 90 mm planar magnetic drivers, delivering a level of audio detail, bass precision, and clarity that typical dynamic drivers simply can’t match. Audeze’s use of Fluxor™ magnet arrays and ultra-thin Uniforce™ diaphragms ensures high efficiency, low distortion, and minimal power requirements, rare in the planar segment.
Beyond audio, the build quality and comfort are exemplary, thanks to its aluminium and spring steel chassis with plush earpads, making long gaming or work sessions comfortable despite its 490g weight.
It’s a closed-back design, ideal for immersive gaming and isolation in noisy environments. Add in over 80 hours of battery life, a 20-minute fast charge, Bluetooth 5.3 with LDAC, and ultra-low latency wireless, and the Maxwell becomes an unbeatable option across use cases and budgets.
For gamers, creators, and audiophiles seeking planar excellence with modern features, the Maxwell hits every mark.
View on Amazon: Audeze Maxwell
FAQS on Planar Magnetic Headphones
Are planar magnetic headphones better than dynamic headphones?
In many ways, yes. Planar magnetic headphones provide clearer mids and highs, tighter bass, and a more balanced sound signature. They also tend to have faster transient response and less distortion. However, they can be heavier and sometimes require external amplification, depending on the model.
Do planar magnetic headphones need an amplifier?
Some do, but not all. High-end models like the Audeze LCD-5 and HiFiMan HE-1000 SE benefit greatly from a powerful headphone amp or DAC. However, newer models like the Audeze Maxwell or MM-100 are designed to run well on basic audio interfaces, gaming consoles, or even phones.
Why are planar magnetic headphones more expensive than regular ones?
Planar magnetic headphones use advanced driver technology, premium materials, and precision engineering, all of which increase production costs. They offer superior detail, lower distortion, and a more accurate soundstage, so they’re priced higher than most dynamic headphones.
Final Thoughts
After carefully reviewing the best planar magnetic headphones in 2025, the Audeze LCD-5 stands tall as our overall top pick. With unmatched clarity, breathtaking soundstage, and audiophile-grade resolution, it’s the ultimate choice for those who want nothing less than world-class performance. Whether you’re working on music or just want amazing sound quality, the LCD-5 is a great choice. It performs well in every way.
If you’re after top-tier performance but want a slightly different flavour, the HiFiMan HE-1000 SE offers incredible detail and musicality at a premium level. For those seeking isolation without compromising audio fidelity, the Audeze LCD-XC is the best closed-back option available. And if you’re just stepping into the planar world, the Monolith M1570 gives you impressive planar quality at a much more accessible price.
Gamers and casual listeners won’t be disappointed, the Audeze Maxwell proves you don’t have to sacrifice sound quality for convenience or affordability.
No matter your needs or budget, there is a perfect pair of planar magnetic headphones waiting for you in 2025.
