Headphones are a necessity today. Whether you are traveling to work, exercising in the gym, or driving a truck, you need headphones to make/receive calls, listen to music and keep yourself busy. Top headphones brands such as Bose, Sony, Skullcandy, Beats and so on, are selling different types of headphones to meet the requirements of different buyers. Wireless headphones, invisible earbuds, open-back headphones, DJ headphones, kids’ earbuds, shower headphones; you name the category and you’ll find it.
However, it can be a daunting task to pick the best headphones among so many best-selling headphones brands. So, how will you determine which pair of headphones will suit you the best? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered.
Our headphones experts tested over 15 headphones brands over 150 days and have shortlisted the top 8 headphones brands in 2023. In this guide, we will provide you with a detailed review of each brand along with brief
reviews of some of the best headphones by these brands.
Keep reading to know about the brands that are currently ruling over the music industry and why you should consider investing in one of their headphones.
8 Top-Rated Headphones Brands on the Market
Here’s a quick overview of the 8 best headphones brands on the market:
Let’s now look at their detailed reviews one by one:
1. Bose
Whether you are an audiophile looking for the most comfortable headphones or a pilot looking for the best aviation headsets, you have probably heard the name of the brand “Bose” multiple times. After all, it’s one of the leading brands in the music industry, with a strong focus on details. While Bose products vary broadly in terms of pricing, it’s safe to say that they are highly inclined toward the high-end range. Nevertheless, price should never be an issue if you are planning to buy Bose headphones. We promise you won’t regret spending more on Bose headphones.
Most of the Bose headphones comprise the Bose Connect app that allows you to handle and manage your Bluetooth devices, get information on software updates, keep a check on the noise isolation and share your music.
Best Bose Headphones
1. Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Headphones
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless headphones are glossy, black headphones that look stylish. Bose has incorporated augmented reality (AR) into these headphones. Therefore, they are AR-enabled headphones by Bose.
If that wasn’t cool enough, the Bose QuietComfort 35 headphones come with a companion: Amazon Alexa! Whether you want to play the next song, or need an update on current affairs, Alexa will have you covered, all at the push of a button. You can also pair your Bluetooth devices without any trouble.
You are probably wondering what happens when you are in a busy area, will Alexa be able to hear you then? Bose has taken care of that too. With a dual microphone system, designed to cancel out any unnecessary, unwanted external noises, these headphones will not only grant you a noise-free listening experience, but will clearly and distinctly pick up whatever you say.
No matter how low or high your audio volume is, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Headphones will provide you with a balanced audio performance at all times.
Read the Full Bose QuietComfort 35 Review
2. Bose Noise Cancelling Wireless Bluetooth Headphones 700, with Alexa Voice Control
Firstly, the Bose Noise-Canceling Wireless Bluetooth Headphones 700 are available in three colors – Arctic White, Silver Luxe and Triple Black.
These headphones are wireless over-the-ear headphones, and Alexa-enabled too, just as the name indicates. You can activate Alexa by simply tapping a button or saying “wake up.” You can also use Google Assistant on these headphones. You won’t need to take out your phone for every little task. A tap on the ear cups is all you need for navigation, weather and much more.
Secondly, we were pleased to know that these Bose headphones have 11 levels of noise-canceling controls, meaning you can block out as many surrounding noises as you’d like. Thirdly, for comfort, the headphones have been designed to comfortably sit over your head. The ear cups are slightly angled in order to ensure a perfect fit. The headband is lightweight, but sturdy so you won’t need to worry about damaging your headphones while putting them over your head.
One feature we are certain you will like is the fact that the Bose Noise-Canceling Wireless Bluetooth Headphones 700 will give you up to 20 hours of battery life in one go. What’s more is that the headphones are water-resistant. What more could you possibly ask for?
3. Bose SoundLink Around Ear Wireless Headphones II
You must have noticed that Bose likes to keep their headphones wireless. After all, it makes life simpler! However, the connectivity technology for these headphones can be either wired or wireless. Firstly, these black, over-the-ear headphones come with a rechargeable battery which will give you on average 15 hours of use-time.
Secondly, Bose allows you to connect to two Bluetooth devices at any given time, which is quite a convenient feature. The headphones are up-to-date with the latest Bluetooth technology, so you won’t have to face any difficulty in terms of connectivity or syncing.
The headphones allow crystal-clear communication on both ends of the phone call. Designed and built with impact-resistant materials, the Bose SoundLink Around Ear Wireless Headphones II headphones are durable and sturdy while also being lightweight.
2. Sony
If you are willing to splurge on high-quality headphones, Sony’s got you covered. It’s a name we have all come to love and admire. Our team of experts recommend Sony headphones for all those audiophiles out there. Being a leading name in the industry, they are known to be in touch with the latest trends in technology ranging from headphones and speakers to home theatres.
Top Sony Headphone
1. Sony WH1000XM3 Noise-Canceling Headphones
Sony WH1000MX3 is definitely a run for its money. The headphones come with a built-in microphone that allows you to take phone calls easily when you are on the go.
Our team of experts was quite impressed by the person noise-canceling feature that these headphones provide. What this means is that it will adjust the volume of your headphones according to your surrounding noises in order to ensure a pleasurable listening experience. Just like the Bose headphones, these Sony headphones are Alexa-enabled and you can activate Alexa by tapping a button on the headphones.
Often, it becomes difficult to carry bulky headphones around. At times, they don’t fit in your bag and sometimes you are scared that you might damage them. Luckily, the Sony WH1000XM3 Noise-Canceling Headphones are foldable and will fit comfortably into black carry-case that Sony provides you with.
Read the Full Sony WH1000XM3 Review
2. Sony MDRZX110/BLK ZX Series Stereo Headphones
We are all fans of portable headphones. The Sony MDRZX110/BLK ZX Series Stereo Headphones have a compact design with swiveling ear cups. Therefore, you to use them with great flexibility and store them without any hassles.
The headphones comprise a 1.2 m tangle-free cord and the headphone jack is a 90-degree plug.
In conclusion, the Sony MDRZX110/BLK ZX Series Stereo Headphones are a combination of affordability, comfort and great sound quality.
3. Sony Noise-Canceling Headphones WHXB900N
The Sony MDRZX110/BLK ZX Series Stereo headphones comprise a built-in microphone and enhanced Bluetooth connectivity. Therefore, you can put your phone in your pocket and speak to your colleagues and friends without having your hands busy. If that’s not enough, the headphones are Alexa-enabled. You will love the bass; thanks to EXTRA BASS, when you are wearing these headphones.
Upon charging, these Sony headphones provide you with up to 30 hours of battery life. This makes the Sony WHXB900N great travel companions, since a single charge will suffice for an entire journey. On average, it’s safe to say that 10 minutes of charging will give you 60 minutes of playback time. Therefore, they are also one of the best travel headphones on the market. With a foldable design, the Sony WHXB900N will comfortably fit into your bag without you having to worry about them getting damaged.
3. Sennheiser
If you are a music-lover, the name “Sennheiser” won’t be new to you at all. The brand has been in the market for years now, and has gained popularity for its affordable and top-quality products. Sennheiser headphones have been providing tough, unmatched competition to high-end brands like Bose and Sony. Sennheiser has experimented with various headphone designs and features, yet the brand always has some new features for you.
Top Sennheiser Headphones
1. Sennheiser HD280PRO Headphones
If you are looking for headphones that are affordable and high quality, the Sennheiser HD280PRO DJ headphones can be a great buy. These black beauties come with a lot of features you’re going to love.
Firstly, the headphones are closed-ear headphones, with little to no sound leakage at all. Secondly, thanks to their design, the headphones provide you with better noise isolation than most headphones. We were rather impressed with the astounding soundstage and imaging that the Sennheiser HD280PRO has to offer.
Thirdly, weighing at 1.28lbs, these headphones are not only lightweight and comfortable but also durable too. Also, the Sennheiser HD280PRO Headphones have an ergonomic design; something that is truly impressive.
Read the Full Sennheiser HD280PRO Headphones Review
2. Sennheiser HD 600 Open-Back Professional Headphones
One look at the Sennheiser HD 600 Open-Back Professional Headphones and you’ll be in awe. Engineering to perfection, if you are an audiophile, the HD 600 headphones are for you. This is because Sennheiser has incorporated an open, circumaural design with voice coils made of aluminium to guarantee crystal-clear sound everywhere.
The headphones have been designed for comfort, with a lightweight build and soft cushioning lining the ear cups and headband.
We were pleased to know that the Sennheiser HD 600 Open-Back Professional Headphones come with a 2-year international warranty. Therefore, no matter where you are around the world, if you damage your headphones, you can get them replaced.
4. JBL
JBL is well-known for its studio monitors, subwoofers, headphones and other high-quality audio equipment. Surviving in the industry for over 70 years, the brand understands what customers need. Just like Sennheiser, they provide top-quality products at an affordable and pocket-friendly price. Therefore, if you are looking to buy headphones for casual listening, JBL is a brand you must look at.
You will be welcomed with unlimited options including wired headphones, wireless earbuds, over-the-ear and on-ear headphones, sports headphones, in-ear headphones, bright colored headphones and so on. You name it, and we are sure JBL will have it.
JBL and the term “boosted bass frequencies” go hand-in-hand. Therefore, JBL headphones are great for studio recording.
Top JBL Headphones
1. JBL TUNE 750BTNC Wireless Over-Ear Headphones with Noise Cancelation
The JBL TUNE 750BTNC Headphones are available in four color variants: Black, Blue, White, and Coral. They are over-the-ear, wireless headphones that provide up to 15 hours of battery life in just 2 hours of charging.
With a lightweight and foldable design, you can easily pop them into your bag when you are one the move and stay worry-free about them getting damaged. The headphones comprise a comfortable, soft cushioning on both the headband and ear cups. Therefore, they are one of the most comfortable headphones on our list.
2. JBL CLUB 950 – Premium Wireless Over-Ear Headphones with Hi-Res Sound Quality and Adaptive Noise Cancellation
The JBL CLUB 950 Headphones have a durable and sturdy build. However, they are slightly heavy for continuous use. Also, there’s no cushioning on the headband.
JBL provides you with a hard case to store the headphones when not in use. You can use these headphones both in the Bluetooth and wired modes. Using the My JBL Headphones app, you can directly connect to your Voice Assistant, and then with a slight tap on your left earcup, you can shift through your playlist, or send a text to a friend. In fact, these headphones are Alexa-enabled.
Also, if you are looking for more bass, you simply need to press the bass-boost button on your ear cup. If you’re in an area that requires you to be more aware of your environment, you can press the Smart Ambient button to converse with those around you without removing your headphones.
5. Audio-Technica
Audio-Technica is a Japanese brand, which was founded in 1962. With a focus on top-quality products available at affordable prices, Audio Technica has become a well-known name in the headphones industry. Audio-Technica headphones can range anywhere from $150 to $1500, so can easily find something that suits both your expectations and budget.
Audio-Technica designs sturdy and durable products. Their headphones can take a fall without getting damaged, and are so comfortable that you’ll rarely feel them resting over your head. The brand is truly one of the top headphones brands on the market currently.
Top Audio-Technica Headphones
1. Audio Technica ATH-AD900X Open-Back Audiophile Headphones
The Audio Technica ATH-AD900X Open-Back Audiophile Headphones are an improved version of the AD700X Headphones. These headphones provide amazing sound quality. The drivers have a 53 mm aperture and CCAW voice coils, resulting in brilliant sound quality. Along with this, the headphones have a significantly wide frequency response range of 5 Hz to 35,000 Hz.
They fit quite comfortably over your ears and are lightweight. The soft cushioning on the ear cups make them extremely comfortable for continuous use.
2. Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Headphones
If you are looking for DJ or studio headphones, the Audio Technica ATH-M50x Headphones can be a great buy. They provide excellent noise cancellation, thanks to the closed-ear design. These headphones have been critically acclaimed by top audio engineers, and have good sound clarity. Since they have a compact and collapsible design, they can easily be folded and carried when you are traveling.
Available in four colors: Black, White, Gun Metal, and a combination of Purple and Black, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Headphones can be bought as either wired or wireless headphones, depending on your preference. Whether you’re looking for DJ headphones for tracking or mixing or personal listening, these Audio Technica headphones can be a great choice.
Read the Full Audio Technica ATH-M50x Review
6. Beyerdynamic
Beyerdynamic is a German brand founded in the early 1900s, and has since stayed a strong competitor in the market. The brand is well-known for its headphones and microphones.
Beyerdynamic headphones, especially, fall under a wide price range, starting at as low as $60 and going well beyond $1000. Almost all Beyerdynamic headphones comprise a hint of the latest technology trends and are resistant to breakage. Therefore, Beyerdyanmic is one of the top headphones brand on the market right now.
Top Beyerdynamic Headphones
1. Beyerdynamic DT 990 Headphones
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Headphones are available in two colors: Gray and Black, and three different sizes: 32 Ohms, 250 Ohms and 600 Ohms. They have an impedance of 28 Ohms and a frequency response of 20 – 23,000 Hz.
You will be pleased to know that they come with a carrying case, making it easy to travel with them. With impressively soft and long-lasting cushioned lining the headband as well as the ear cups, the brand assures a comfortable listening experience.
Read the Full Beyerdyanmic DT 990 Review.
2. Beyerdynamic Amiron Wireless Copper Hi-Res Bluetooth Headphones with Touchpad
The Beyerdynamic Amiron Wireless Copper Hi-Res Bluetooth Headphones with Touchpad aren’t as cheap as the Beyerdynamic DT 990. In fact, their price is almost double the price of the DT 990.
One look at the headphones and we fell in love. They have a sleek look and a glossy, metallic finish. Since these headphones are connected to the Beyerdynamic MIY app, they provide you with a personalized sound experience.
The headphones don’t have any confusing or unnecessary buttons. When they’re turned on, with the push of a button, an LED lights up. There’s also a touchpad on the ear cups that allows you to handle media playback. With a Bluetooth range of up to 10 metres, you can freely move around even if you aren’t connected to your device.
7. Beats
Beats by Dre has been around since 2006 and is currently one of the most popular brands in the music industry. The brand designs and sells headphones, and speakers. The price of Beats headphones can range anywhere between $60 to $400, depending on what product you’re buying.
While the older Beats headphones variants are wired, almost all the recently launched Beats headphones are fully wireless and are up-to-date with the latest Bluetooth technology. Keep in mind, however, that the headphones may get damaged easily, in comparison to headphones of other brands.
Top Beats Headphones
1. Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones
The Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones are available in 9 colors: Black, Red, Club Navy, Club Red, Club White, Club Yellow, Rose Gold, Satin Gold and Satin Silver. They’re quite vibrant and eye-catching. Not only this but they also have a sleek and foldable design. Therefore, you can easily carry them when you are traveling.
One full charge and you’re good to go for 40 hours. To sum it up, if you charge the Solo3 for 5 minutes, you’ll have 3 hours worth of playback. The headphones are compatible with both iOS and Android devices. They come with a carrying case, warranty card and universal charging cable (USB-A to USB Micro-B). They have excellent sound quality, and provide a snug and comfortable fit.
2. Beats Studio3 Wireless Over‑Ear Headphones
Unlike the Solo3, the Studio3 wireless headphones are available in a single color: Red. Therefore, if you are someone who does not like vibrant headgear, you may want to reconsider these headphones. Nevertheless, they come with an Apple W1 chip for class 1 wireless Bluetooth connectivity (something we really loved).
Thanks to the pure ANC (active noise cancelling) feature, you won’t have to worry about ambient sounds disturbing you when you’re listening to music or taking an important phone call. Just like the Solo3, the Studio3 headphones are battery efficient. On 10 minutes of charging, you’ll have 3 hours of playback, meaning that upon charging till full capacity, you’ll have 22 hours worth of playback. Therefore, the Beats Studio3 Wireless Headphones can be a great buy for those who are looking for versatile headphones.
8. Skullcandy
If you’ve lived through the 2000s, you’ll remember associating Skullcandy headphones with skaters. Afterall, they donned the look. Ever since they’ve begun, Skullcandy has dedicatedly worked on improving their headphones both in terms of appearance and performance.
Skullycandy headphones are typically priced anywhere between $20 to $225. Just as the price range varies quite significantly, so do the features and colors. Most of the Skullcandy headphones on the market are available in bright colors.
Top Skullcandy Headphones
1. Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless Over-Ear Headphone
The Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless Over-Ear Headphones are available in two color variants: Chill Grey and True Black. Using the Skullcandy App, you can personalize your sound requirements. You are also provided with call, track and volume controls, which are easy to operate.
The headphones are compact and foldable, and an ideal travel buddy when you are on the move. 10 minutes worth of charging will give you up to 4 hours worth of playback. A fully charged battery will guarantee 41 hours of play. Pretty impressive, isn’t it?
These over-the-ear headphones have a built-in microphone, making it easy for you to stay connected to your friends and family. They have a sturdy and strong build, but they aren’t exactly lightweight. Having said that, you won’t experience any discomfort when you are wearing them on your head.
2. Skullcandy Hesh 3 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
The Skullcandy Hesh 3 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones are available in 8 different colors: Back, Blue, White, Grey, Red, Deep red, Olive and Teal. However, these 8 different colors come with 8 different price tags.
10 minutes worth of charging will give you 4 hours of play, just like it does for the Crusher Evo, but the Hesh 3 upon full charge will only provide you with 22 hours of total playback. The headphones are up-to-date with the latest wireless Bluetooth technology.
Final Words
We’re sure that by now you’ve got a fair idea of the top headphone brands in 2023, and some of their best headphones. If you’re looking to buy a new pair of headphones for yourself or a loved one, these 8 brands have plenty of options to choose from. What’s more is that you can be certain that you’re investing in the right headphones.
If you have any questions, doubts, or queries, feel free to drop a comment in our comments section below, and our experts will get back to you with an answer in no time. If there are any products you have in mind that you’d like for us to test and review, do write to us!
