Top Over-Ear Headphone Brands That'll Elevate Your Audio Experience

In today's technologically advanced world, choosing the right pair of over-ear headphones can be a daunting task with countless brands vying for attention. Among the top contenders are brands known for their innovation and superior audio quality, ensuring an unparalleled listening experience. From the immersive soundscapes of Sony's flagship models to the cutting-edge features of Bose's noise-canceling line, these brands have left an indelible mark on the industry. To discover more about the crème de la crème of over-ear headphones, explore the comprehensive list and insights below.

Illustration of over ear headphones

Best brands of over ear headphones in 2025

Sony

Sony is a leading brand in the headphone market, particularly renowned for its high-quality over-ear headphones. With a significant global presence, Sony's market share in the US headphone market stands at 11.4% as of recent data. The company is famous for its active noise cancellation technology and its cooperation with the music industry to perfect audio tech. Sony's MDR-Z1R over-ear headphones are highly praised for their comfort, build quality, and exceptional soundstage. Globally, Sony continues to innovate, introducing new products like the INZONE Buds for gaming, further solidifying its position in the audio market.

Bose

Bose Corporation is renowned as one of the leading producers of over-ear headphones, known for their superior sound quality and comfort. In 2023, Bose held a 2.9% market share in the U.S. Audio and Video Equipment Manufacturing Industry, with about 12.5% of people in the U.S. having used Bose headphones, making it the third-largest brand in the market. Bose's products, such as the QuietComfort series, are highly regarded for their noise-canceling technology and long battery life. The company has a global presence, operating in over 25 countries and employing around 6,000 people worldwide. Bose's commitment to innovation and sustainability is evident in their goal to cut carbon and energy emissions by 42% by 2030. For more details about their products, visit Bose's official website.

Sennheiser

Sennheiser is a renowned leader in the audio industry, particularly excelling in the production of high-quality over-ear headphones. In 2022, the company generated sales of 467.7 million euros from its professional audio solutions, marking a 26% increase and solidifying its position in the market. Sennheiser's over-ear headphones, such as the Momentum series, are highly regarded for their superior sound quality, comfort, and advanced features like noise cancellation and long battery life. The company's market share in the EU is significant, with Sennheiser stabilizing at 23% market share in the headphones segment. Their commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction has made them a favorite among audiophiles worldwide.

Audio-Technica

Audio-Technica is a renowned brand in the audio equipment industry, particularly noted for its high-quality over-ear headphones. With a market share of 1.6% in the U.S. audio and video equipment manufacturing industry, Audio-Technica generates significant revenue, estimated to be close to $80 million annually. The company's ATH-M50x and ATH-R70x models are highly regarded for their excellent sound quality, comfort, and build durability. For instance, the ATH-M50x is praised for its long-lasting performance, even after years of use, and the ATH-R70x stands out for its immersive soundstage and exceptional imaging. These features make Audio-Technica a competitive player in the global headphone market, which is projected to grow significantly, with the audiophile headphone market expected to reach $5.34 billion by 2032. For more detailed information, visit their official website for Audio-Technica headphones.

Bang & Olufsen

Bang & Olufsen is a renowned brand in the audio industry, particularly celebrated for its high-quality over-ear headphones. Founded in 1925 by Peter Bang and Svend Olufsen, the company has a long history of innovation, including the introduction of the first radio to use mains power and the iconic BeoLit radio made with a Bakelite cabinet in 1939. Known for their superior sound quality, design, and comfort, B&O's over-ear headphones are favored by audiophiles and professionals alike. While the global wireless headphones market is dominated by over-ear headphones with a 47.9% market share in 2023, B&O's commitment to quality and design ensures its products remain highly sought after. The company's focus on opening dedicated stores and enhancing user experience further solidifies its position in the market.

Beyerdynamic

Beyerdynamic, a family-owned company since its founding in 1924, is renowned for producing some of the best over-ear headphones in the industry. Known for their high-quality audio and durable construction, Beyerdynamic headphones, such as the T5p Second Generation, are highly regarded for their comfort and soundstage. The T5p, with its 32 ohm impedance and closed-back design, is particularly praised for its smooth treble and detailed sound. Beyerdynamic's commitment to quality is evident in their handcrafted components made in Germany. The company's legacy and continuous innovation have solidified its position as a powerhouse in the world of audio.

Philips

Philips is renowned as one of the top producers of over-ear headphones, offering advanced features such as Active Noise Canceling and Hi-Res Audio, which provide a lifelike audio experience. Their headphones, like the TAPH805BK model, include convenient features like touch control panels and integration with Google Assistant. The global headphones market, which includes Philips' offerings, is expected to grow significantly, with the smart headphones market projected to reach USD 45.37 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 17.22%. Philips' products cater to a wide range of consumers, particularly in regions like Europe, which is a significant market shareholder with a CAGR of 9.57% during the forecast period. The brand's commitment to innovation and quality has made it a favorite among consumers seeking high-performance headphones. For more information on their premium wireless headphones, visit their website.

JBL

JBL, a leading brand under Harman International, a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics, has cemented its position as a category growth leader and the #1 audio brand in volume globally, having sold 200 million headphone units since 2016. Driven by the booming headphone market and global demand for high-quality audio, JBL's headphones have seen unprecedented growth, particularly since 2020, with trends like HD music streaming, gaming, and home-based work contributing to this surge. JBL's headphones division surpassed Sony in volume share in Q2, making it the #1 global audio brand in volume and #2 after Apple. The market is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 17.6% until 2028, further solidifying JBL's dominance. JBL's commitment to innovative and high-quality products has made it a favorite among music lovers, gamers, and professionals alike.

AKG

AKG is renowned as one of the top producers of high-end over-ear headphones, leveraging its decades of acoustic expertise to deliver exceptional sound quality. Their headphones feature advanced technologies such as dual dynamic drivers, hybrid drivers, and customizable sound filters, ensuring a wide spectrum of sound frequencies and high-frequency detail. AKG's products, like the N5005, offer hi-res audio support up to 40kHz, providing an immersive listening experience. With a focus on comfort and durability, AKG headphones are designed to follow the natural anatomy of the ear, enhancing listening pleasure. The brand's commitment to quality and innovation has made it a favorite among audio enthusiasts and professionals. For more information on AKG high-end in-ear headphones, visit their official website.

Focal

Focal, a renowned French hi-fi audio equipment manufacturer, is esteemed for producing some of the world's best audiophile headphones, offering stellar sound, eye-catching designs, and exceptional comfort. With over 40 years of innovation, Focal has expanded its expertise from loudspeaker manufacturing to creating high-end headphones like the Utopia and Clear MG, which are praised for their balanced sound signatures and spacious soundstages. Since the release of its first flagship open-back headphone, the Utopia, in 2016, Focal has continued to innovate in dynamic driver technology, catering to audiophiles of all experience levels and budgets. Focal's headphones, such as the Utopia 2022, feature advanced materials like pure Beryllium "M" shape dome drivers and offer an incredibly smooth treble. These headphones are designed for both comfort and superior sound quality, making them a top choice for audiophiles. For more detailed insights, you can explore The Connoisseur's Guide to Focal Headphones.