13 best audio headsets

Audio headsets, commonly referred to as headphones, are wearable electronic devices designed to deliver audio directly to the user's ears. They are widely used for various purposes, including listening to music, watching movies, playing games, making phone calls, and professional audio work. There are different types of audio headsets, with over-ear headphones being one of the primary categories. Here's what you need to know about audio headsets:

  1. Over-Ear Headphones: Over-ear headphones are characterized by large earcups that fully enclose the ears. They are designed to provide excellent sound quality, noise isolation, and comfort. Over-ear headphones are suitable for both casual listening and professional audio tasks.

  2. On-Ear Headphones: On-ear headphones have smaller earcups that rest on the ears rather than completely enclosing them. They are more compact and portable than over-ear headphones but may provide slightly less noise isolation and comfort.

  3. In-Ear Headphones (Earbuds): In-ear headphones, often referred to as earbuds, are small, lightweight devices that fit directly into the ear canal. They are highly portable and ideal for use during physical activities or when on the go.

  4. Wireless Headphones: Many audio headsets now come in wireless variants, using Bluetooth technology to connect to audio sources like smartphones, tablets, or computers. This eliminates the need for tangled cables and allows for greater freedom of movement.

  5. Wired Headphones: Traditional wired headphones connect to audio sources using a physical cable. They are known for providing consistent audio quality and not relying on battery power.

  6. Noise-Canceling Headphones: Noise-canceling headphones use advanced technology to reduce or eliminate ambient background noise, providing a more immersive listening experience. They are popular for travel and noisy environments.

  7. Gaming Headsets: Gaming headsets are designed for gamers and often include features like a built-in microphone, surround sound support, and customizable audio profiles for an immersive gaming experience.

  8. Professional Studio Headphones: These headphones are designed for audio professionals, including musicians, producers, and sound engineers. They typically offer high-fidelity sound reproduction and are used for critical listening and audio production tasks.

  9. Open-Back vs. Closed-Back Headphones: Over-ear headphones can be categorized as open-back or closed-back. Open-back headphones have perforated earcups, allowing some sound to escape, which can create a more natural soundstage. Closed-back headphones have sealed earcups for better noise isolation.

  10. Comfort and Fit: Comfort is crucial for headphones, especially for extended use. Many models have adjustable headbands, cushioned earpads, and ergonomic designs to ensure a comfortable fit.

  11. Sound Quality: The sound quality of headphones varies widely based on factors such as driver size, frequency response, and impedance.High-quality headphones offer clear, balanced, and immersive audio.

  12. Controls and Features: Modern headphones often come with built-in controls for adjusting volume, skipping tracks, and taking calls. Some also have smart features like voice assistants integration.

  13. Durability and Build Quality: The build quality of headphones is essential for long-term use. Premium models may feature materials like metal and leather for added durability.

  14. Price Range: Headphones come in a wide price range, from budget-friendly options to high-end, audiophile-grade models. The price often reflects the quality of materials, audio performance, and additional features.

Choosing the right audio headset depends on individual preferences, intended use, and budget. Whether for immersive music listening, gaming, professional audio work, or everyday use, there are headphones available to suit various needs and preferences.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best audio headsets on the market
  

Thrawn: Treason: Star Wars: Thrawn, Book 3

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Inside the Headset with the AFCA

The Headset Set, Series 2

The Writer's Guide to Training Your Dragon: Using Speech Recognition Software to Dictate Your Book and Supercharge Your Writing Workflow

Based on 500 reviews Check latest price

Random Acts of Kindness

Based on 64 reviews Check latest price

You Are a Badass at Making Money: Master the Mindset of Wealth

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

A Rare Book of Cunning Device

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The Book on Negotiating Real Estate: Expert Strategies for Getting the Best Deals When Buying & Selling Investment Property

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Panasonic Headphones On-Ear Lightweight with XBS RP-HT21 (Black & Silver)

Panasonic

Based on 17 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Panasonic Headphones On-Ear Lightweight with XBS RP-HT21 offer full-bodied sound free of the discomfort that can sometimes accompany earbud-style earphones. Weighing only 1.2 ounces, these lightweight headphones feature a wide, ergonomic headband and foam-cushioned earpads that feel secure yet never intrusive, providing hours of listening comfort. Large, 30mm magnetic neodymium drivers deliver clear, natural-sounding mids and highs while the XBS (Extra Bass System) port increases low-frequency response to bring alive music and movies. The 4.5-feet cord threads comfortably through clothing and bags and reaches the computer across your desk.

  • WIRED ON-EAR HEADPHONES - Lightweight, open-air design on-ear headphones weigh just 1.2 ounces without cable
  • ON-EAR STEREO AUDIO - 30mm large neodymium drivers deliver rich powerful bass and natural treble
  • IMPROVED BASS RESPONSE - XBS port magnifies low-frequency sound for full, robust bass
  • WIDE, ERGONOMIC HEADBAND - Comfort-fit with a wide headband and foam-cushioned earcups for added listening comfort
  • EXTENDED HEADPHONE CORD - Long 4.5-ft. cord threads comfortably through clothing and bags

User questions & answers

Question: Will these work well outside brisk walk or running with an iPod
Answer: The pineapple cutter is very good, stainless steel. Follow instructions Don’t buy plastic one. I have had it for years so I don’t have packaging to see where it was made. I think it is German. Google and see if you find out more.
Question: Down the road, will 2-inch-diameter replacement foam earpads fit these Panasonic headphones
Answer: I can't begin to imagine why the difference since both of them are identical. I think I have the older model because I I got mine a little over two years ago. I can only tell you that it's worth every penny no matter what you pay for it. I use it every time I buy pineapple which is often, and it makes the job so incredibly easy, and cleans just by rinsing in warm water. As for the difference in price I noticed that Amazon does this in order to keep competitive, so maybe this is the answer.
Question: Will this headphone jack fit through the headphone jack on my iphone 5s life proof case
Answer: I don’t know where it’s made, but I wouldn’t buy another one. It makes the pineapple slices very thin and leaves them ragged, not smooth. It was a good name brand so disappointing.
Question: Do they enclose the ears or press against them? I can't tell how big they are
Answer: I've never used a Newness corer but I've had farberware products so I felt if their corer was like their other products it would be great. I wasn't disappointed I bought another one for my daughter.

Product features

Panasonic Headphones On-Ear Lightweight with XBS RP-HT21

Combining a high-quality listening experience with portability and lightweight comfort, the Panasonic Headphones On-Ear Lightweight with XBS RP-HT21 offer big, quality sound on any budget. The lightweight, open-air design weighs 1.2 ounces and features a wide headband and foam-cushioned earpads to keep you comfy, even during extended listening sessions. The 30mm magnetic neodymium drivers deliver clear, natural-sounding mids and highs while the XBS port pumps up the bass to bring alive music and movies. Perfect for grab-and-go listening, the RP-HT21 headphones feature a generous 4.5-ft. cord, making them ideal to keep next to your computer, in your laptop case or in a backpack along with your favorite portable music device.

Powerful Neodymium Drivers for High-Quality Audio

Despite their demure profile, the RP-HT21 delivers clear, natural-sounding mids and highs along with resonant bass powered by 30-millimeter diameter drivers and neodymium magnets. A 16Hz - 22kHz frequency response ensures you’ll hear every detail in your favorite tunes, movies and video games.

XBS Port for Increased Bass Response

An XBS (Extra Bass System) port magnifies low-frequency sound, delivering full, robust bass similar to what you’d hear in higher-priced headphones, brining alive your favorite dance tunes or action movies.

Wide Headband and Cushioned Earpads

A wide, ergonomic headband and foam-cushioned earpads feel secure yet never intrusive, providing hours of listening comfort.

Lightweight Open-air Design with Generous Cord Length

The RP-HT21 tips the scales at a feather-light 1.2 ounces, so you might just forget you have them on. A generous 4.5-feet cord threads comfortably through clothing and bags and reaches the computer across your desk.

USB Headset with Microphone Noise Cancelling & Audio Controls, Wideband Computer Headphones for Business UC Skype Lync Softphone Call Center Office, Clearer Voice, Super Light, Ultra Comfort

Callez

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • CRYSTAL CLEAR CALLS: Business-grade Wideband USB Headset, Digital Signal Processing (DSP) and Noise-Cancelling Mic for crystal-clear conversations, Acoustic Shock Protection(ASP) to protect your hearing.
  • MOST COMFORT HEADSET: Ultra lightweight USB headphones with adjustable headband to fit all head sizes, a flexible boom mic to suit your preference, soft and high quality ear cushion enhance all-day wearing comfort.
  • ULTRA DURABLE HEADSET: Precision design, quality plastics, uni-body headband construction, flexible metal mic boom make this Single Ear USB Skype headset with mic more durable and sturdier. Compete with Plantronics or Jabra high-grade Office Headsets.
  • SIMPLE AUDIO CONTROLS: Plug and Play, No drivers needed for PC, Computer, Laptop, Mac…USB compatible devices. Convenient in-line Controls, easy to adjust this computer headset volume up/down, mute/un-mute the microphone or speaker.
  • 2-YEAR WARRANTY & WIDE COMPATIBILITY: 45 days money back & 24-month worry-free. Works with Windows 2000/7/8/10/XP/Vista, Mac OS X and most leading UC Platforms, Softphone. Ideal for Skype Chat, Business, Call Center, Conference calls, Dictation, Dragon speak, Online courses, Webinar presentations and more.

User questions & answers

Question: The blinking blue light is really annoying. is there any way to stop it from blinking
Answer: Hello, the metal headband is supposed to be worn on the backside of your head and shouldn't really come into direct content with your head, except for the bump that will rest up against the back of your head. There shouldn't be any reason to bend the headset.
Question: Does it require a sound card in the PC
Answer: You will need additional H80 headsets. You can get them in pairs here on amazon, or individually on our website or by calling 888.541.7223
Question: Does this seem to hurt ear? I tried Mpow and cushion is small and hard but good price. Thanks a lot
Answer: Hello, communication within the vehicle is voice activated. If you're wanting to communicate with another vehicle via additional two-way radio, you will need to push the push-to-talk button.
Question: Can this microphone be worn on right or left ear
Answer: Yes they do. It's a behind the head headset so the fabric strap goes over the top of your head and the metal band goes behind your head. This is preferred in off road racing as it helps keep the headset on your head and doesn't slide off as easily.

Product features

Callez Pro USB Headset

  • Wideband audio and noise-cancelling boom microphone for crystal clear calls

  • Comfortable, lightweight design for ALL-DAY USE

  • Built-in acoustic shock protection to protect your hearing

  • Durable construction to withstand the long-term use

  • Convenient inline volume and mute controls

Crystal Clear Calls

Business-grade Wideband USB Headset, Digital Signal Processing (DSP) and Noise-Cancelling Mic for crystal-clear conversations, Acoustic Shock Protection(ASP) to protect your hearing.

Convenient In-line Controls

Easy to access inline controls. Volume up and down, mute/unmute the microphone and speaker. Plug and Play, No drivers needed for PC, Computer, Laptop, Mac…USB compatible devices.

Wide Compatibility

Works with Windows 2000/7/8/10/XP/Vista, Mac OS X and most leading UC Platforms (Cisco, Avaya, IBM, etc.), Softphone.

Super Lightweight

Weighs only 56g/1.97oz, even lighter than an egg. With Callez headset, you can focus on your calls and easily forget that you are wearing it. It is comfortable to wear during long calls throughout a work day.

Soft Ear Cushion

Earpiece with soft and breathable leatherette ear cushion enhances all-day wearing comfort.

Adjustable Headband

Flexible high quality headband can be adjusted, bent or shaped for all head sizes to relieve the pressure from the headset.

330° Rotatable Microphone

Flexible and 330°rotatable microphone can be on either left or right side and positioned for better voice catch. Single-sided design, which is ideal for having an open ear to your surroundings on desktop calls.

Mpow 071 USB Headset/ 3.5mm Computer Headset with Microphone Noise Cancelling, Lightweight PC Headset Wired Headphones, Business Headset for Skype, Webinar, Cell Phone, Call Center

Mpow

Based on 22 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Stereo Audio Performance With the superior 40mm driver and skilled sound processing, Mpow USB headset is capable of delivering crisp, high-definition audio with a clear, balanced tone while you are conversing on Skype. Designed for Lasting Comfort The headset is covered in soft protein memory ear pads to ensure comfort during extended talking sessions. Easy to Set up The digital USB connection allows you to get plugged-in quickly. The 7. 9-foot (2. 4-meter) cord gives you the flexibility to move around while you are talking. Multiple Connection Modes Thanks to the detachable cable, you may either connect the headset to your computer via the USB port/ 3. 5mm audio cable or to your cellphone via the 3. 5mm audio cable. Notes: 1. Please point your mouth to the microphone to achieve the best conversation effect. 2. Short press the volume buttons for gradual volume adjustments and long press for successive adjustments 3. The USB headset will no longer work if the PC is on standby or sleep mode. Specification: SNR: ≥ 50db Cable length: 7. 9ft (2. 4m) Plug: USB plug+ 3. 5mm audio plug Microphone Impedance: 2. 2KΩ Microphone Sensitiveness: -46+/-3dB Loudspeaker diameter: 40mm Loudspeaker sensitiveness: 103dB +/-3dB Rated power: 10mW Maximum power: 20mw Loudspeaker Impedance: 16Ω Frequency response: 20Hz-20 KHz Packing List: Mpow USB headset × 1 USB Cable× 1 User Manual × 1

  • Crystal Clear Chat Headset: Built in Omni-directional microphone which can be twisted discretionarily picks up your voice loud & clear; Reduces unwanted background noise for clear conversation; Great ideal for Dragon speak, Online courses, Skype chat, call center, conference calls, webinar presentations and more
  • 3.5mm Jack/USB Plug Connection Options: The 3.5mm jack audio cable can be detached from the control box which gives you an additional connection option for cell phones and tablet; Or you can use the USB plug with control box to work with PC; Long headset's cord offers flexibility to move around; Notice: Please do not connect with power amplifier
  • Noise Reduction Sound Card & Easy Access Control: Convenient inline volume control & Mic/Speaker Mute for easy access; Built-in noise-reduction sound card of the control box lower noise output from devices; Provide outstanding audio on both transmit and receive
  • Extended Wear Comfort: Headband and fluffy earpads pad with memory foam and wrapped by skin-friendly protein leather; Comfortably fit your head with the adjustable steel slider; Gentle Reminder: Depending on your head/ear size/shape, it may be a little tight for someone to wear which is designed to avoid sound leakage; In case of that and to get both audio and wearing comfort, please take off the headphone every 1-2 hours to get your ears relax and protect them from muggy environment in use
  • Multi Purpose & Wide Compatibility: This headset can be used mainly for chatting, secondarily for music, and if needed, as a backup to a priority gamer headset (It is NOT specially designed for gaming, please DON'T compare it with professional gaming headsets); Wide compatible with Windows 2000/7/8/10/XP/Vista, Mac OS X, iOS, Android, Tablet PC

User questions & answers

Question: The mute button won't turn off how do i fix it
Answer: The mic mute button always stays lit. The color of the lite changes. The earphones should unmute, if you hit the button again. Your computer should indicate whether or not the mute is on for the earphones. It's worth noting that the buttons for the headphones work with your system sound. Some apps, such as web browser, have their own sound settings. You can fiddle with your computer to get all of these audio pieces working together.
Question: I have Windows 10 and the microphone will not connect. I have tried troubleshooting and now I'm getting frustrated and about to return it. Tips
Answer: I had no trouble using the USB connection. It took Win 10 about 30 seconds to find it, install a driver, and good to go. I did not try using the 3.5 mm connection to my computer. It works great. You may have a defective unit. Bummer and a hassle, but that's what returns are for.
Question: Does it block backaround noise well
Answer: The "Noise Reduction" feature is simply referring to the ability to turn down the volume in line. There is no noise reduction logic like with many higher quality headsets, and the mic is completely non-directional. I listened to the mic through the headset speakers using device settings in windows, and could hear quiet mouse clicks, tapping my finger on my computer, table, or chair, and key clicks. *much louder* than they actually were. Despite having a boom mic, these noises were happening on the opposite side of the hole in the boom, several feet away.
Question: I can't hear myself through the mic. I know other people can hear me through the mic. Any thoughts
Answer: It is 100% percent normal and desirable to hear yourself through a mic on a headset designed for phone calls (Skype, etc.) as this one is. The cheap $30 Logitech headset commonly found on Amazon (a competitor to this MPow device) has this behavior by default. I decided to try this MPow headset because the $30 Logitech headsets crap out after a few years. Anyway, imagine you are in a phone call with perfectly sealed headphones that only allow you to hear the other caller, not yourself. This is very annoying. I can hear my own voice only from whatever muffled sound can penetrate through the ear pads. This has the tendency to make me speak even louder so I can hear myself, and I end up yelling. I did try the Listen to This Device" tic box under the Windows 10 control panel for the microphone, and it resulted in unacceptable feedback, so I am still searching for the right settings to make it work.

Product features

Mpow 071 USB Computer Headset

Ideal for all-day use

Design for the way you work

Built better for business,by design

Meeting the needs of office professionals and IT alike.

Wide band audio and noise-canceling microphone provide clearer conversations

Adjustable Boom Microphone

Designed with single-pointing microphone, no interference from other directions, no background noise. In order to achieve the best call, please adjust the microphone near your mouth

Rotatable Soft Ear Pads

Featured by soft protein memory ear pads, the 071 USB headsets are breathable and sweat-absorbent. You can wear it for a long-time talking even in summer. 90 degree rotatable ear cups for easy storage

Retractable Headband

Designed with an adjustable headband, you can adjust it to a suitable width according to your head's size

Exclusive 2 in 1 Inline Control

You can use the USB plug to work with PC. The 3.5mm jack audio cable can be detached from the control box which gives you an additional connection option for phones and tablet

Built-in Noise Cancelling Sound Card

The USB computer headset’s in-line control is built in high quality noise reduction sound card , which will reduce the noise of the computers’ music or other audio signals

Wide Compatibility

Works with common calling applications across almost all platforms and operating systems-Windows 2000/7/8/10/XP/Vista, Mac OS X, iOS, Android, Tablet PC

Over Ear Headphone, Wired Premium Stereo Sound Headsets with 50mm Driver, Foldable Comfortable Headphones with Protein Earmuffs and Shareport for Recording Monitoring Podcast PC TV- with Mic (Silver)

OneOdio

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

What makes OneOdio Pro series a good headphone?

Sound

Studio is a professional over ear headphone which has most balanced natural sound.

The 50mm neodymium driver reproduces all your music's dynamics and delivers controlled bass that audiophiles need.

It is ideal for mixer panel, turntable, monitoring in recording studios, radio, film production, video, electronic news gathering--and virtually any application where high quality sound is required. And also great for listening music or watching movies with friends for daily use.

Comfort

Studio is a comfortable over ear headphone that can be worn even for long working sessions.

Foldable Design

Studio is a flexible headphone that can be naturally adjusted to fit any sized head.

The ear-cups can be rotate both left and right for single-ear monitor.

Besides, it can be folded flat and put into the designed pouch when on the move.

Dual-Duty Cable

Studio is an adapter-free headphone, it comes with a detachable spring cable that with 3.5mm & 6.35mm plug on each end for different needs. Like smartphone, laptop, PC, tablet PC, AMP, electric guitar, electric piano, electric drum.

Durability

Studio is a super durable headphone in stylish look, it is made of black matte plastic and glossy finish trims, some of it having a slightly rubbery feel.

  • BASS SOUND: Enjoy clear sound and comfort with the OneOdio Studio monitor headphones. Large, 50 millimeter speaker unit drivers combined with neodymium magnets; powerful bass, clear vocal, and crisp high tones form stereo sound
  • BUILT TO STAY COMFORTABLE: The Protein Leather Memory Foam padded ear cushions are designed for monitor headphones comfort and noise isolation. The headband is adjustable and stretchable for you to find the desired angle you like to fit in
  • NO MORE ADAPTER: DJ style coiled cord (9.8Ft Stretched) easily reaches from the TV or stereo to your chair. A standard-sized 6.35mm plug and a 3.5mm plug are included. They both are completely detachable, you can plug in the mixer you want to use
  • SINGLE-SIDE MONITORING: 90° swiveling ear cups for single-ear monitoring anytime; self-adjustable and flexible headband delivers a fatigue-free listening experience that can last for hours for mastering and mixing
  • Works with: All devices have 3.5 or 6.35mm audio jack. Bass sound, durability, and comfort. These are the headphones you've been looking for.

Product features

What's in the box

  • Studio over ear headphones
  • 3.5mm to 3.5mm audio cable
  • 6.35mm to 3.5mm audio cable
  • Pouch
  • User manual

Cable 1: 6.35 to 3.5 9.8ft coiled cable

Cable 2: 3.5 to 3.5 3ft cable with answer/end button & in-line microphone for hands-free phone calling.

Compatible with all devices have 3.5 or 6.35 audio jack, like smartphone, laptop, PC, AMP, electric guitar, electric piano, electric drum, etc.

OneOdio A70 Bluetooth Over Ear Headphones, Studio Headphones with Shareport, Foldable, Wired and Wireless Professional Monitor Recording Headphones for Guitar Amp Online PC Tablet Home Office Online

OneOdio

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

What contains in the package: 1*fusion A7 headphones1*pouch for headphones. 5 mm audio cable1*dual-duty cable for 6. 35mm and 3. 5mm sockets1*usb charging Cable1*User guide dual-duty cable & adapter-free our solution for an adapter-free life--- there are gold-plated 3. 5mm & 6. 35mm plugs on each end of the audio cable, just simply plug in according to your needs, And no more trouble finding a single adapter. Specially designed for DJ, perfect for mixers, electric guitars, keyboards, and more. ◆Bluetooth music sharing pair your device via Bluetooth and share your tunes through the dual-duty cable! Simply make one of the Fusion headphones enter into pairing mode. Connect the main headphones with 6. 3mm jack, and use the other end 3. 5mm jack to connect another Fusion headphones. Then you can share your favorite music and videos with your friends. ◆Super Sound quality hear every detail: Japanese voice coil and Japanese driver diaphragm delivers professional-quality sound. Immerse yourself in highly accurate mid-to-high tones that are true to the original recording While never losing composure-even at high volume. Note: if you need to connect headphones and guitar simultaneously, you need to pay attention: muted guitar can connect headphones directly with audio cable; if it is electric guitar, you need an amp as a transfer, other guitars don't out with our headphones. Specifications: Speaker: 40Mmimpedance: 32 ohms Sensitivity: 110dB +- 3Dbtransmission frequency: 2402mhz-2480mhzmax. Power: 300Mwrating power: 30Mwplug Type: 3. 5mm/6. 35mm stereo cable length: 1. 5M-2. 8M coiled cable

  • Jock lock design: For make sure the cable lock in place to ensure a secure connection, we add jack lock system on the stereo Aux cable. You don't have to worry about any connection problems when connecting the jacks and sockets.
  • Soft Memory Earcups: The breathable protein skin earmuffs and the soft sponge inside improve the wearing experience, make sure good sound insulation and there is no discomfort for long-term wear
  • Music or Sound Sharing: Pair your device via bluetooth and share your tunes through the audio cable, 2 or more people can share music moments at the same time
  • Receiving Music at Both Ends: Connect two devices with a 3.5mm cable and another 6.35mm cable, and the music at both ends will be transmitted to ear at the same time, such as connect your phone and guitar simultaneously
  • 50 hours playtime&40mm driver: 50-hour playback time to deliver a wireless experience. 40mm drivers - inner & outer rings deliver vibrant bass, vivid midst & vivacious highs without overlap

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