Ever turned up the volume and still felt like something was missing? That’s because not all headphones are built to go loud and stay crisp. In 2025, the demand for high-volume, distortion-free audio will be louder than ever.
Whether blocking out city noise, powering through a tough workout, or enjoying deep, thumping bass, you need headphones that deliver strong, clear sound without limits.
That’s why we’ve checked all the features, pushed the volume to the max, and picked the 8 loudest headphones in 2025. These headphones aren’t just loud—they’re built to give you strong, clear, and rich sound even at full volume.
Read on to discover the models that deliver maximum decibels without sacrificing detail. Your ears are in for a ride.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing the Loudest Headphones
Here are the key features you should consider when buying loud headphones:
Sensitivity or Sound Pressure Level (SPL): This is the most critical factor, measured in decibels (db), which shows how loud your headphones can get. Look for models rated 100 db SPL or higher for powerful output without distortion.
Drivers: Larger drivers (usually 40mm–50mm) push more air, resulting in louder sound. Dynamic drivers are most common in loud headphones, delivering strong bass and clear highs at high volumes.
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): Even at full blast, good loud headphones should keep distortion to a minimum. A low THD (ideally under 1%) ensures clean, accurate sound when volume is maxed out.
Noise Isolation: To make the most of loud output, headphones should block out external noise. A snug, closed-back design with thick ear cushions helps trap sound and enhance perceived loudness without increasing db.
Build Quality: Not all headphones are built to handle loud playback over time. Durable components like reinforced headbands and pressure-resistant ear cups are essential for long-term loud use.
Balanced Tuning at High Volumes: Some headphones lose sound quality when volume is turned up. Good loud headphones maintain clarity, strong bass, and well-defined mids/highs even at top volume.
Volume-Boosting Features: Some headphones are designed with built-in amplifiers or work best when paired with an external amp or DAC. This is especially true for audiophile-grade or high impedance models.
Comfort: Loud bass can create vibrations, especially in bass-heavy headphones. A secure, cushioned fit helps prevent ear fatigue and ensures the headphones stay in place during extended high volume sessions.
Quick Overview of the 8 Loudest Headphones
The 8 loudest headphones in 2025 are:
| Overall Best | Sony WH-1000XM6 |
| Best Bass Boosters | Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 |
| Best for iOS Power Users | Apple AirPods Max |
| Best Wired Option | Sennheiser HD 560S |
| Best Studio Monitors | Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2IB |
| Best Budget Option | JBL Tune 720BT |
| Best Open-Back Option | Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro |
| Best Noise Canceling Option | Bowers and Wilkins PX7 |
In-Depth Look: 8 Loudest Headphones in 2025
Let’s take a detailed look at the 8 loudest headphones, assessing their sound quality, connectivity, and overall ease of wear.
1. Sony WH-1000XM6
Overall Best
- Industry-leading active noise cancelation (ANC)
- Crystal-clear sound with deep bass
- 30+ hours of battery life
- AI-optimized noise reduction in calls
- Smart touch controls, intuitive use
- Comfortable design for long wear
- Premium price
- No official water or sweat resistance
- Bulky case for compact travel
Based on our in-depth evaluation, the Sony WH-1000XM6 earns our strong recommendation for anyone seeking loud headphones that does not compromise on sound quality or comfort.
We found its high sensitivity (~105 dB/mW) and large carbon fiber dome drivers produced consistently loud, distortion-free audio, even at maximum volume levels. Total harmonic distortion stayed remarkably low, ensuring a crisp, clean output across genres.
A standout feature in our assessment was the HD Noise Canceling Processor QN3, supported by 12 precision microphones. This setup created an exceptionally quiet listening environment, significantly enhancing perceived loudness without adding strain to the ears.
We also assessed the high-res audio performance, where Lossless Digital Audio Codec (LDAC) and Digital Sound Enhancement Engine (DSEE) Extreme impressed us by restoring detail in compressed tracks. Even under high-volume playback, the sound remained balanced.
Comfort is key in loud headphones, and Sony delivered. The soft synthetic leather cushions, lightweight frame, and low clamping pressure allowed extended sessions without fatigue.
Add to that 30-hour battery life, fast charging, customizable EQ, and intuitive gesture controls, and you get more than just volume—you get control, clarity, and comfort.
View on Amazon: Sony WH-1000XM6
2. Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2
Best Bass Boosters
- Deep, vibrating bass impact
- 4-mic digital active noise canceling
- High SPL
- Dual drivers for impact
- Custom EQ and tuning
- Heavy build (332g)
- Not water resistant
- Slight distortion at max
- Plastic build, not premium
- Expensive for casual users
When evaluating the best bass boosters in the loudest headphones category, Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 easily tops our list. Unlike standard loud headphones that only crank volume, these deliver earth-shaking low-end impact thanks to their patented Crusher Adjustable Sensory Bass. You don’t just hear the bass, you feel it in your bones.
In our evaluation, the 100±3dB SPL proves these are undeniably loud, while the dual 40mm dynamic drivers with additional bass drivers deliver explosive sound that stays controlled. Even with all that power, THD stays below 3%. We also appreciated the balanced tuning even at max volume, which many bass-heavy headphones miss.
The 4-mic ANC system and noise isolation further amplify the bass by keeping distractions out. Combine that with long battery life, voice control, and comfortable over-ear design, and the Crusher ANC 2 becomes a top recommendation for bass lovers looking for one of the loudest and most impactful headphones on the market.
View on Amazon: Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2
3. Apple AirPods Max
Best for iOS Power Users
- Ultra-low distortion sound
- Excellent noise cancelation
- Loud yet balanced output
- Comfortable for long sessions
- Great iOS ecosystem sync
- Expensive price tag
- No manual EQ settings
- Heavy for some users
- Not water resistant
- Limited Android functionality
Apple AirPods Max tops our list as the best loud headphones for iOS power users. What makes them stand out in this category is their tight integration with the Apple ecosystem, offering seamless features like automatic switching, spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, and siri voice control, which elevate the listening experience on iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
We found that AirPods Max deliver incredibly high volume with precision clarity, thanks to the Apple-designed 40mm dynamic drivers and ultra-low THD even at max volume. The high Sensitivity allows them to maintain intense sound levels without degrading quality.
The Active Noise Cancelation sounds top-tier, using eight microphones to block external noise effectively, making the sound feel even louder and more immersive. What really impressed us during our research was how balanced the tuning remained even at high volumes, never getting muddy or overly sharp.
Add to that their robust build quality, comfortable memory foam ear cushions for long listening sessions, and Lossless Audio support via USB-C, and you get a pair of headphones that aren’t just loud—they’re smartly loud, built for performance. If you’re deep into the Apple world, these are simply the best loud headphones you can buy.
View on Amazon: Apple AirPods Max
4. Sennheiser HD 560S
Best Wired Option
- High 110 dB SPL
- Extremely low THD
- Large dynamic drivers
- Open-back, expansive sound
- Comfortable for long sessions
- No active noise isolation
- Needs good amp power
- Sound leaks out
- Not ideal for outdoors
- Wired only, no Bluetooth
Sennheiser HD 560S is our top pick for the best wired option in the loudest headphones category and for good reason. These headphones are a perfect blend of volume, power and precision. With a SPL of 110 dB, they offer impressive loudness while maintaining exceptional clarity.
Backed by high-efficiency dynamic drivers and a specialized polymer-blend diaphragm, the HD 560S delivers deep bass and crisp highs that stay clean even at max volume. Their open-back design and angled transducers help create an expansive soundstage, making the volume feel immersive and natural.
During our evaluation, we noted the extremely low THD of < 0.05%, which means these headphones can get loud without introducing unwanted noise or fatigue.
The balanced tuning at high volumes ensures no frequency overwhelms the others, a rarity in loud headphone models.
Additionally, we found these headphones have comfortable build, lightweight chassis, and breathable velour ear pads. For anyone looking for a loud, clear, and comfortable wired option, the Sennheiser HD 560S is simply unmatched.
View on Amazon: Sennheiser HD 560S
5. Audio-Technica ATH-M50XBT2 IB
Best Studio Monitors
- Very high volume output
- Powerful 45mm drivers
- Balanced sound at loud volumes
- Low distortion output
- Comfortable for long listening
- Strong build quality
- Dedicated internal amplifier
- No active noise cancelation
- SPL slightly below 100 dB
- Plastic-heavy construction
- No water resistance
Among all the headphones we evaluated for loudness performance the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2IB stood out for the one in studio settings. As the second generation of the iconic M-Series, this model brings the same critically acclaimed studio sound into a wireless format. It is ideal for professionals and audio enthusiasts who demand precision even at elevated volume levels.
Our assessment focused on how well headphones retain their tuning when pushed to their loudest limits. With 45mm large-aperture drivers, a dedicated internal amplifier, and an AK4331 advanced DAC, the M50xBT2IB delivered a deep, controlled bass and crisp highs, all while keeping THD low.
The 99 dB sensitivity might not seem extreme on paper, but in practice, it offered more than enough headroom for loud playback with clean, dynamic range. The passive noise isolation is highly effective thanks to the well-cushioned earpads, ensuring external noise doesn’t interfere even in louder environments.
We also noted its build quality and comfort, crucial for long mixing or listening sessions. Overall, the ATH-M50xBT2IB impressed us with how it combines volume, accuracy, and durability, making it our top recommendation for the best studio monitor headphones from a loudness-performance standpoint.
View on Amazon: Audio-Technica ATH-M50XBT2 IB
6. JBL Tune 720BT
Best Budget Option
- High 101dB sensitivity
- Powerful 40mm drivers
- Pure Bass sound signature
- Low distortion at high volumes
- App-based EQ customization
- No active noise canceling
- The plastic build feels basic
- Not audiophile-accurate tuning
- Limited soundstage depth
- No wired listening option
JBL Tune 720BT stands out as a budget-friendly headphone among the loudest headphones. Our assessment focused on volume performance and found that these headphones deliver exceptional loudness and clarity without distortion, something rare in this price range. The 101dB sensitivity rating with 40mm dynamic drivers ensures output that retains clarity even when pushed to high volumes.
We also appreciated the low THD and effective passive noise isolation, which helps preserve sound quality without needing ANC. The build is lightweight yet durable, and soft ear cushions make them comfortable during long sessions.
The EQ customization through the JBL App allowed us to tailor the sound to our taste. While it lacks ANC or premium materials, the volume-boosting capabilities, long 76-hour battery life, and fast charging make this a clear winner for anyone wanting loud sound on a budget.
View on Amazon: JBL Tune 720BT
7. Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro
Best Open-Back Option
- Exceptionally clear at high volume
- Spacious, open soundstage delivery
- Robust drivers, great response
- Comfort for extended sessions
- Durable, studio-grade build
- Lacks passive noise isolation
- Sound leakage due to open-back
- Not bass-heavy at max volume
- Needs a proper amp for full gain
- Slight treble harshness is possible
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro doesn’t just get loud, it gets loud beautifully. After our evaluation, we confidently recommend the DT 990 Pro as the best open-back option for those who want powerful sound without sacrificing clarity, comfort, or build.
What impressed us most is how well these headphones handle loud playback. With a nominal SPL of 96 dB, dynamic drivers, and low THD, the DT 990 Pro delivers consistent, distortion-free audio even at higher volumes. The sound remains balanced with a clear high-end, solid mids, and tight, controlled bass.
The open-back design gives the sound impressive air and spatial depth, making it ideal for studio monitoring or immersive listening where ambient awareness is fine.
The build is rock-solid, but the headphones are lightweight. We found the velour ear pads breathable and comfortable, even in long mixing sessions. The firm headband adds stability without being too tight. From audio engineers to volume-loving audiophiles, if you’re seeking loud, open-back audiophile headphones with studio-grade performance, the DT 990 Pro is the one we recommend.
View on Amazon: Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro
8. Bowers and Wilkins PX7
Best Balanced Sound
- <0.1% THD clarity
- 40mm custom loud drivers
- High 111dB sensitivity rating
- 6-mic hybrid noise canceling
- 30-hour battery life
- 7-hour play in 15 mins
- Excellent soundstage performance
- Sturdy, premium build materials
- No water/sweat resistance
- Slightly heavy for travel
- No manual EQ tuning
- No extreme bass boost
If you’re chasing pure, powerful sound that cuts through chaos, the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 is your ideal match. After evaluating numerous models specifically from a loudest headphones perspective, we found the Px7 S2 to be the best for noise canceling without compromising volume clarity.
What sets it apart is the combination of custom-designed 40mm drivers and a 24-bit-capable DSP, delivering loud, clean, and immersive audio. Even at high volumes, the sound stays crisp and balanced, thanks to a Total Harmonic Distortion of less than 0.1% — a level of precision we rarely see in this category.
The six-microphone hybrid ANC system dramatically enhances perceived loudness by effectively blocking ambient noise without flattening the music. During testing, we found this feature essential for maintaining volume intensity in crowded or outdoor environments.
Comfort and build were also part of our evaluation. The plush memory foam earpads, durable design, and 30-hour battery life make this headphone ideal for extended, high-volume use. Features like Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX Adaptive and quick-charge support complete the premium experience.
For those who value loud, distortion-free audio with class-leading noise cancellation, the Px7 S2 is the clear winner in our tests.
View on Amazon: Bowers and Wilkins PX7
Frequently Asked Questions About Loudest Headphones
- Are wireless headphones as loud as wired ones?
Wireless headphones have improved significantly, and many now offer volume levels comparable to wired models. However, wired headphones still have a slight edge in raw loudness and audio fidelity, especially in studio or audiophile settings.
2. How many decibels is too loud for headphones?
Listening to audio above 85 dB for extended periods can damage your hearing. While some headphones can reach up to 110 dB or more, it’s best to limit volume and take breaks to protect your ears.
3. Do I need an amplifier for loud headphones?
Not necessarily. Many modern headphones like the Sony WH-1000XM6 and AirPods Max are designed to be loud without needing extra gear. However, high-impedance models like the Focal Clear MG can benefit from an external DAC or amplifier for optimal loudness and sound quality.
4. What specs should I look for in loud headphones?
Key specs include high sensitivity (above 100 dB SPL), low THD, powerful drivers (40mm or larger), and good passive or active noise isolation to enhance perceived loudness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re chasing powerful volume without compromising sound quality, the Sony WH-1000XM6 takes the crown as the overall best loud headphones of 2025. With its crystal-clear audio, punchy volume output, top-tier noise cancelation, and all-day comfort, it’s the most versatile and reliable choice for most listeners.
For bass lovers who want their music to rumble, the Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 delivers unmatched low-end power, while the Apple AirPods Max is perfect for iOS users seeking high-volume clarity with premium spatial audio.
Looking for something budget-friendly yet loud? The JBL Tune 720BT hits the sweet spot. And if you prefer studio-accurate sound, the ATH-M50xBT2IB is a standout. For open-back immersion or premium noise-canceling performance, the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro and Bowers & Wilkins PX7 are top-tier picks in their categories.
No matter your priority bass, clarity, budget, or silence—the perfect loud headphone is out there for you.
