Best Open Back Headphones for Audiophiles 2024

Open back headphones are a popular choice for those who prioritize sound quality and want to enjoy an immersive listening experience. Unlike closed-back headphones, which have a sealed design that isolates sound, open-back headphones have perforated ear cups that allow air to pass through. This design provides a more natural soundstage and a wider frequency response, making them ideal for critical listening, music production, and gaming.

When shopping for the best open-back headphones, you should consider the type of driver technology used, the frequency response, the impedance, and the comfort level. The driver technology affects the overall sound quality, with planar magnetic and dynamic drivers being the two most common types. The frequency response refers to the range of frequencies that the headphones can reproduce, with a wider range being better. The impedance measures the electrical resistance of the headphones, with a higher impedance requiring more power to drive but often resulting in better sound quality. Finally, the comfort level is crucial, as open-back headphones can be heavier and less breathable than closed-back headphones.

In this article, we have tested and reviewed the best open-back headphones on the market, taking into account the factors mentioned above. Whether you are a music enthusiast, a gamer, or a professional audio engineer, we have got you covered. Keep reading to find the perfect pair of open-back headphones for your needs.

Best Open Back Headphones

If you’re an audiophile or a music enthusiast, you know that the quality of your headphones matters a lot. Open-back headphones are an excellent choice for those who want to experience a more natural and spacious sound. They allow air to flow through the ear cups, which results in a more open and transparent sound. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the best open-back headphones available on Amazon. We’ve carefully selected these headphones based on their sound quality, comfort, and durability. So, whether you’re a music producer, a gamer, or just someone who loves listening to music, you’re sure to find the perfect pair of open-back headphones on our list.

Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 599 Open Back Headphone

If you’re looking for a premium open-back headphone that delivers excellent sound quality and exceptional comfort, the Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 599 is a great choice.

Pros

• The proprietary transducer technology delivers natural spatial performance and exceptional sound quality.
• The large ear cups and soft replaceable ear pads offer luxurious comfort even during extended listening sessions.
• The multiple connectivity options make it easy to connect to a variety of devices.

Cons

• The open-back design means that sound will leak out, which may disturb others around you.
• The premium design and materials come at a high price point.
• The headphones are not noise-cancelling, so they may not be the best choice for use in noisy environments.

The Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 599 is a premium open-back headphone that delivers impressive sound quality and exceptional comfort. The proprietary transducer technology ensures natural spatial performance, while the large ear cups and soft replaceable ear pads provide luxurious comfort even during extended listening sessions.

The headphones feature multiple connectivity options, including a robust 3-meter detachable cable and 6.3 millimeter jack, as well as an additional 1.2-meter detachable cable with a 3.5 millimeter jack. The timeless design cues, including the ivory color, matte finish, brown headband stitching, and matte metallic details, convey quality at first glance.

While the open-back design means that sound will leak out, which may disturb others around you, the headphones offer excellent sound quality. However, the premium design and materials come at a high price point, which may not be suitable for everyone. Additionally, the headphones are not noise-cancelling, so they may not be the best choice for use in noisy environments.

Overall, if you’re looking for a premium open-back headphone that delivers exceptional sound quality and comfort, the Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 599 is a great choice.

beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO Over-Ear Studio Monitor Headphones – Open-Back Stereo Construction, Wired (80 Ohm, Grey) 80 Ohm Gray

If you’re looking for studio-quality headphones that deliver unmatched sound reproduction, the beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO headphones are an excellent choice.

Pros

• These headphones are perfect for studio applications thanks to their transparent, spacious, strong bass and treble sound.
• The soft, replaceable velour ear pads ensure high wearing comfort, even during long listening sessions.
• The hard-wearing, durable and robust workmanship makes these headphones a long-lasting investment.

Cons

• These headphones require an amp due to their high impedance.
• The open-back design may not be ideal for use in noisy environments.
• The headphones are not foldable, which may make them less portable than other options.

If you’re a professional mixer, editor, or listener, or if you’re just looking for high-quality headphones for critical listening or gaming, the beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO headphones are a great choice. The open-back design provides a spacious and transparent sound that’s perfect for studio applications.

The soft, replaceable velour ear pads ensure high wearing comfort, even during long listening sessions. The hard-wearing, durable and robust workmanship makes these headphones a long-lasting investment that will provide years of reliable use.

However, it’s important to note that these headphones require an amp due to their high impedance. Additionally, the open-back design may not be ideal for use in noisy environments. Finally, the headphones are not foldable, which may make them less portable than other options.

Overall, if you’re looking for high-quality headphones for studio applications, the beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO headphones are an excellent choice that delivers unmatched quality in sound reproduction at an incredible price.

PHILIPS Open Back Stereo Headphones

If you’re looking for an affordable pair of open-back headphones for home use, the PHILIPS Open Back Stereo Headphones may be a great option for you.

Pros

• The open-back design provides spacious and natural sound, ideal for everyday listening.
• The 50 mm drivers are perfectly tuned to deliver crisp bass, balanced midrange, and pristine high frequencies.
• The drivers are engineered to fit the ear’s natural geometry, ensuring no detail is lost.

Cons

• These headphones leak sound and do not guard against outside noise, making them less suitable for public use.
• The ear pads are not the most comfortable, especially after extended use.
• The headphones are wired, which may be inconvenient for some users.

The PHILIPS Open Back Stereo Headphones are perfect for those who want a natural and spacious sound for everyday use. The 50 mm drivers deliver excellent sound quality, and the open-back design ensures no detail is lost. However, the headphones leak sound and do not guard against outside noise, so they may not be suitable for public use. Additionally, the ear pads are not the most comfortable, especially after extended use. Finally, the headphones are wired, which may be inconvenient for some users.

In summary, if you’re looking for affordable open-back headphones for home use, the PHILIPS Open Back Stereo Headphones are a great option. However, if you need headphones for public use or extended listening sessions, you may want to consider other options.

Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Premium Noise Canceling Overhead Headphones

If you’re looking for high-quality noise-canceling headphones, the Sony WH-1000XM4 is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Industry-leading noise canceling with Dual Noise Sensor technology.
• Next-level music with Edge-AI, co-developed with Sony Music Studios Tokyo.
• Up to 30-hour battery life with quick charging (10 min charge for 5 hours of playback).

Cons

• Expensive compared to other options on the market.
• Some users have reported discomfort after extended use.
• Touch controls can be finicky and take some time to get used to.

The Sony WH-1000XM4 offers superior noise-canceling technology with Dual Noise Sensor technology that helps block out external noise. Additionally, the headphones feature Edge-AI technology, co-developed with Sony Music Studios Tokyo, which provides an immersive listening experience.

The battery life is impressive, with up to 30 hours of playback time and quick charging capabilities. However, the headphones are expensive compared to other options on the market, and some users have reported discomfort after extended use.

The touch controls can be finicky and take some time to get used to, but once you become familiar with them, they offer a convenient way to pause, play, skip tracks, control volume, activate your voice assistant, and answer phone calls.

Overall, if you’re willing to invest in high-quality noise-canceling headphones, the Sony WH-1000XM4 is definitely worth considering.

Philips Audio SHP9500 HiFi Precision Stereo Over-Ear Headphones (Black) Performance Audio | SHP9500

If you’re looking for a high-quality pair of open-back headphones, the Philips Audio SHP9500 is worth considering.

Pros

• Enjoy a full spectrum of sound with 50mm neodymium drivers
• Freedom of movement with a 1.5m cable for indoor use
• Comfortable for long listening sessions with a double-layered headband cushion and breathable ear cushion

Cons

• Sound leakage may be an issue in quiet environments
• Not ideal for use in noisy environments
• Cable is not detachable

The Philips Audio SHP9500 is designed to deliver outstanding performance through its open-back architecture and high-precision 50mm speaker drivers. This headphone is perfect for audiophiles who want to enjoy an authentic listening experience in style.

The 1.5m cable gives you the freedom to move around while listening to music indoors. The double-layered headband cushion and breathable ear cushion make it comfortable to wear for longer periods.

However, the open-back design of the headphones means that sound leakage can be an issue in quiet environments. Additionally, they are not ideal for use in noisy environments as they do not offer any noise isolation. Finally, the cable is not detachable, which may be a dealbreaker for some users.

Overall, the Philips Audio SHP9500 is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality pair of open-back headphones.

Sony WH-1000XM5 The Best Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones with Auto Noise Canceling Optimizer, Crystal Clear Hands-Free Calling, and Alexa Voice Control, Midnight Blue Midnight Blue One Size Headphones

If you’re looking for wireless noise-canceling headphones, the Sony WH-1000XM5 is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Unprecedented noise cancellation with 8 microphones and two processors
• Magnificent sound quality with new Integrated Processor V1 and Hi-Res audio support
• Crystal clear hands-free calling with 4 beamforming microphones and advanced audio signal processing

Cons

• Bass-heavy sound signature may not be for everyone
• No water resistance
• Expensive price point

The Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are engineered to provide an unparalleled listening experience. With two processors controlling eight microphones, the noise cancellation is exceptional, and the Auto NC Optimizer adjusts the noise canceling based on your environment and wearing conditions. The newly developed driver, DSEE-Extreme, and Hi-Res audio support deliver awe-inspiring audio quality.

The headphones feature four beamforming microphones and advanced audio signal processing, providing crystal clear hands-free calling. The touch controls allow you to pause, play, skip tracks, control volume, activate your voice assistant, and answer phone calls. Additionally, the headphones have an ultra-comfortable, lightweight design with soft-fit leather, making them perfect for long listening sessions.

The battery life is impressive, with up to 30 hours of playback and quick charging, where a 3-minute charge provides three hours of playback. The headphones also have a multipoint connection, allowing you to switch between devices quickly.

For everyday convenience, the Speak-to-Chat and Quick Attention mode stop your music and let in ambient sound, and the instant pause/instant play feature automatically pauses music when headphones are taken off and starts again when they are put back on.

Overall, the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are an excellent choice for anyone looking for high-quality wireless noise-canceling headphones.

Sony WH-CH720N Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones

If you’re in the market for noise-canceling headphones, the Sony WH-CH720N is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Sony’s lightest Wireless Noise-canceling headband ever.
• Take noise canceling to the next level with Sony’s Integrated Processor V1, so you can fully immerse yourself in the music.
• Super comfortable and lightweight design.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the noise-canceling feature is not as effective as other models.
• The headphones do not come with a carrying case, making them less convenient to travel with.
• The headphones may not fit comfortably on larger heads.

The Sony WH-CH720N headphones are perfect for entertainment purposes, with their adjustable ambient sound mode and adaptive sound control features that tailor sound to suit your environment. They also have a long battery life of up to 35 hours with quick charging capabilities, so you can enjoy your music for longer periods of time.

Additionally, the headphones are equipped with high-quality sound tuning and crystal-clear hands-free calling and voice assistant capabilities with Precise Voice Pickup technology. The multipoint connection feature allows you to quickly switch between two devices at once, and the DSEE technology boosts the quality of compressed music files for high-quality streaming.

Overall, the Sony WH-CH720N headphones are a great investment for anyone looking for a comfortable, lightweight, and high-quality noise-canceling headphone option.

Philips SHP6000 HiFi Stereo Wired Headphone

If you’re looking for wired headphones that offer high-quality sound and comfort, you should consider the Philips SHP6000.

Pros

• High Resolution Audio for superior sound quality
• Over-the-ear design for noise isolation
• Soft padded ear cushions for comfortable wear

Cons

• No wireless connectivity
• Limited color options
• May not fit all head sizes comfortably

The Philips SHP6000 offers impressive sound quality with its High Resolution Audio, making it an excellent choice for music lovers who want to hear their favorite songs in the best possible quality. The over-the-ear design provides good sound isolation, which is great for use in noisy environments. The soft padded ear cushions are designed for over the ear comfort and noise isolation, making these headphones comfortable to wear for extended periods.

One downside of the Philips SHP6000 is that it doesn’t offer wireless connectivity, which may be a deal breaker for some users who prefer the convenience of Bluetooth headphones. Additionally, the headphones are only available in black, which may not appeal to users who want a more colorful option. Finally, the headphones may not fit all head sizes comfortably, so users with larger or smaller heads may need to look elsewhere.

Overall, the Philips SHP6000 is a great choice for anyone looking for wired headphones that offer superior sound quality and comfort.

PHILIPS Fidelio X2HR Over The Ear Open Back Wired Headphone

If you’re looking for open-back headphones that deliver exceptional sound quality, the PHILIPS Fidelio X2HR Over The Ear Open Back Wired Headphone is a great choice.

Pros

• Hi-res Audio Certified with extended response frequencies
• Replaceable deluxe memory foam ear-pads with breathable velour finishing
• Lightweight self-adjustable hammock with 3D mesh and genuine leather outer headband

Cons

• Not suitable for noisy environments
• Cable may be too long for some users
• Not foldable for easy storage

The PHILIPS Fidelio X2HR headphones are engineered to deliver an impeccably clear and detailed sound range, making them perfect for audiophiles who want to immerse themselves in their favorite music. With the acoustic open-back architecture and 50 mm high definition neodymium drivers with LMC diaphragm, you can enjoy a wide frequency range and exceptional sound quality.

One of the standout features of these headphones is the replaceable deluxe memory foam ear-pads with breathable velour finishing. They provide excellent comfort and help to reduce pressure on the ears, making them ideal for extended listening sessions. The lightweight self-adjustable hammock with 3D mesh and genuine leather outer headband also ensures a comfortable fit for any head size.

However, these headphones are not suitable for noisy environments as they do not provide much noise isolation. The cable may also be too long for some users, which can be inconvenient. Additionally, they are not foldable for easy storage, which may be a drawback for some users.

In summary, if you’re looking for open-back headphones that deliver exceptional sound quality and comfort, the PHILIPS Fidelio X2HR Over The Ear Open Back Wired Headphone is a great choice.

Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 560 S Over-The-Ear Audiophile Headphones

If you’re an audiophile looking for headphones that offer natural and accurate reference sound, the Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 560 S Over-The-Ear Audiophile Headphones are an excellent choice.

Pros

• The open-back earcups allow sound waves to expand naturally, providing lifelike depth and realism to your music.
• The ergonomic acoustic refinement (e.a.r.) design tilts the drivers to the natural angle of your ears, creating a wide soundstage.
• The lightweight design and comfortable velour earpads make these headphones ideal for extended listening sessions.

Cons

• The headphones have a high impedance of 120 Ohms, which may require an amplifier to achieve optimal sound quality.
• The cable is only 3 meters long, which may be too short for some users.
• The headphones are not water-resistant, so they may not be suitable for use in wet conditions.

The Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 560 S Over-The-Ear Audiophile Headphones are an excellent choice for audiophiles looking for headphones that offer natural and accurate reference sound. The open-back earcups allow sound waves to expand naturally, providing lifelike depth and realism to your music. The ergonomic acoustic refinement (e.a.r.) design tilts the drivers to the natural angle of your ears, creating a wide soundstage. The lightweight design and comfortable velour earpads make these headphones ideal for extended listening sessions.

However, the headphones have a high impedance of 120 Ohms, which may require an amplifier to achieve optimal sound quality. The cable is only 3 meters long, which may be too short for some users. Additionally, the headphones are not water-resistant, so they may not be suitable for use in wet conditions.

Overall, if you’re an audiophile looking for headphones that offer natural and accurate reference sound, the Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 560 S Over-The-Ear Audiophile Headphones are an excellent choice.

Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600

If you’re looking for a high-quality open-back headphone for audiophile-grade sound, the Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 is a fantastic option.

Pros

• Lightweight aluminum voice coils ensure excellent transient response.
• Neodymium ferrous magnets maintain optimum sensitivity and excellent dynamics.
• Sophisticated design, elegantly finished in black and gray.

Cons

• The build quality feels slightly cheaper than other headphones in this price range.
• The earpads can get uncomfortable after extended use.
• The cable is not detachable.

The HD 600 is optimized for minimum distortion, with open-aire speakers for a natural listening experience. The advanced diaphragm design eliminates standing waves, resulting in a clean sound free of artifacts and acoustical disturbances.

The headphones deliver exceptionally natural, spatial, and accurate sound, making them a favorite among mastering engineers worldwide. The high-quality open metal mesh earpiece covers and computer-optimized magnet systems minimize harmonic and intermodulation distortion.

The HD 600 is best suited for all types of audio and is geared for your hi-fi stereo system. The headphones come with a 2-year international warranty for peace of mind.

In conclusion, if you’re an audiophile looking for a headphone that delivers natural and accurate sound, the Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 is a great choice. However, the build quality may be a concern for some, and the earpads can get uncomfortable after extended use.

Samson Semi Open-Back Studio Reference Headphones

If you’re looking for a high-quality pair of open-back headphones that won’t break the bank, the Samson SR850 is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The proprietary large 50mm drivers with rare earth magnets deliver an extended frequency response and great dynamic range, providing an outstanding listening experience.
• The circumaural, over-ear design with velour cushioning provides outstanding comfort for long listening sessions.
• The self-adjusting headband ensures an optimal fit, making these headphones comfortable to wear for hours on end.

Cons

• The open-back design means that sound leakage can be a problem, so these headphones may not be suitable for use in noisy environments.
• The build quality is not as robust as some other headphones in this price range, so you may need to handle them with care.
• The headphones do not come with a carrying case, so you’ll need to purchase one separately if you plan to take them on the go.

The Samson SR850 is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a high-quality pair of open-back headphones without breaking the bank. The proprietary large 50mm drivers with rare earth magnets deliver an extended frequency response and great dynamic range, providing an outstanding listening experience. The circumaural, over-ear design with velour cushioning provides outstanding comfort for long listening sessions, and the self-adjusting headband ensures an optimal fit.

However, the open-back design means that sound leakage can be a problem, so these headphones may not be suitable for use in noisy environments. Additionally, the build quality is not as robust as some other headphones in this price range, so you may need to handle them with care. Finally, the headphones do not come with a carrying case, so you’ll need to purchase one separately if you plan to take them on the go.

Overall, if you’re looking for a great pair of open-back headphones that won’t break the bank, the Samson SR850 is an excellent choice.

Sony MDR-MV1 Open Back Reference Monitor Headphones

If you’re looking for a pair of headphones that are perfect for mixing and mastering, then you should consider the Sony MDR-MV1 Open Back Reference Monitor Headphones.

Pros

• The open-back design provides a rich low frequency range.
• The detachable cable made of high-quality machined aluminum is perfect for professional use.
• The light weight and soft suede ear pad material provide excellent wearing comfort for extended hours of use.

Cons

• These headphones do not come with a carrying case.
• The treble can be improved with EQ.
• The headphones are not wireless.

The Sony MDR-MV1 headphones are designed to provide an accurate high-resolution and well-balanced sound, nearly identical to a speaker-based production environment. The wide frequency response of 5Hz–80 kHz makes it perfect for mixing and mastering of immersive/spatial and stereo sound with high-resolution capability.

The newly developed HD driver units optimized for an open-back acoustic structure reproduce each sound element exactly as it is, making it perfect for creating spatial and stereo sound with super-wide frequency range and soundstage.

The detachable cable made of high-quality machined aluminum is bundled with a mini-jack plug adaptor, making it perfect for professional use. The light weight and soft suede ear pad material provide excellent wearing comfort for extended hours of use.

In conclusion, the Sony MDR-MV1 Open Back Reference Monitor Headphones are a great choice for anyone looking for a pair of headphones that are perfect for mixing and mastering. While they do have a few cons, the pros outweigh them. If you’re looking for a pair of headphones that are accurate, comfortable, and perfect for professional use, then you should definitely consider the Sony MDR-MV1 Open Back Reference Monitor Headphones.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best open back headphones, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you get the right product for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your decision:

Sound Quality

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing open back headphones is sound quality. Look for headphones with a wide frequency range and low distortion levels. Additionally, pay attention to the sensitivity rating, as this will impact how loud the headphones can get.

Comfort

Since you’ll likely be wearing your open back headphones for extended periods of time, comfort is key. Look for headphones with soft, breathable ear pads and an adjustable headband to ensure a comfortable fit. Additionally, consider the weight of the headphones, as heavier models may cause discomfort over time.

Durability

You’ll want to invest in a pair of open back headphones that will last, so be sure to consider the durability of the product. Look for headphones with a sturdy build and high-quality materials. Additionally, consider the warranty and customer service offered by the manufacturer.

Connectivity

Finally, consider the connectivity options for your open back headphones. Some models may have a wired connection, while others may offer Bluetooth or other wireless options. Consider what will work best for your needs and ensure that the headphones are compatible with your devices.

By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be able to choose the best open back headphones for your needs and enjoy high-quality sound and comfort for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the advantages of using open back headphones for gaming?

Open back headphones have a more natural soundstage, which can help you identify the direction of sound sources more accurately. This can be particularly useful in games where positional audio is important, such as first-person shooters. Additionally, the open back design allows for better ventilation, which can help keep your ears cool during long gaming sessions.

How do open back headphones enhance the experience of listening to music?

Open back headphones offer a more spacious and natural sound, which can make music sound more lifelike and engaging. The open design also allows for better airflow, which can help improve the overall sound quality and reduce distortion. Additionally, open back headphones tend to have a wider soundstage, which can help you pick out individual instruments and voices more easily.

What makes open back headphones preferable for audio mixing?

Open back headphones offer a more accurate and detailed sound, which can be crucial when it comes to audio mixing. The open design allows for better ventilation, which can help prevent heat buildup and reduce distortion. Additionally, the wider soundstage of open back headphones can help you identify individual instruments and sounds more easily, which can be helpful when trying to achieve a balanced mix.

Can you recommend any high-quality wireless open back headphones?

Yes, there are several high-quality wireless open back headphones on the market. Some popular options include the Sennheiser HD 660 S, the Beyerdynamic Amiron Wireless, and the Grado GW100. However, it’s worth noting that wireless headphones may not offer the same level of sound quality as their wired counterparts, so it’s important to choose a reputable brand and read reviews carefully before making a purchase.

For someone new to high-fidelity audio, which open back headphones are recommended?

If you’re new to high-fidelity audio, some good options for open back headphones include the Sennheiser HD 600, the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro, and the Philips SHP9500. These headphones offer a good balance of sound quality, comfort, and affordability, making them a great choice for beginners.

How do open back headphones compare to closed back in terms of soundstage and naturalness?

Open back headphones generally offer a wider and more natural soundstage than closed back headphones. This is because the open design allows for better airflow and less distortion. However, closed back headphones can offer better isolation and bass response, which can be beneficial in certain situations. Ultimately, the choice between open back and closed back headphones will depend on your personal preferences and intended use.