10 Best Over Ear Headphones 2026 in the United States

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones are a strong choice if you're looking for over-ear headphones that blend excellent sound quality with top-notch noise cancellation. They use advanced active noise cancelling technology alongside passive noise isolation, which helps block out distractions effectively whether you're on a busy commute or in a noisy environment. Comfort is a clear highlight here — the plush ear cushions and padded headband make them easy to wear for long listening sessions without discomfort.

These headphones offer wireless Bluetooth connectivity with a reliable 30-foot range and a solid battery life of up to 24 hours, which is enough to get you through a full day without needing a charge. If you run low on battery, a quick 15-minute charge can provide a couple more hours of playback, which is handy in a pinch. There’s also a wired option, allowing you to plug in the included audio cable with microphone, so you can keep listening even if the battery runs out or if you prefer a wired connection for better audio consistency. The microphone and control setup are straightforward with push-button controls, and the multi-point Bluetooth support lets you switch smoothly between devices like your phone and laptop.

Sound quality benefits from adjustable EQ via the Bose app, letting you customize bass, mid, and treble to your tastes. Portability is decent, with a protective case included, though the headphones are a bit larger and may feel bulky to some users when not in use. The only downsides might be the higher price point typical for Bose and the use of a balanced armature driver, which some audiophiles feel less rich compared to larger dynamic drivers. These headphones suit anyone prioritizing comfort, effective noise cancelling, and long wireless use, making them a great all-around option for music lovers and commuters alike.

The Beats Studio Pro wireless headphones offer a solid mix of features for anyone looking for high-quality over-ear headphones. Their custom acoustic platform delivers rich, immersive sound and supports lossless audio through USB-C, which means your music can sound clearer and more detailed. These headphones include personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, creating a 360-degree listening experience that's especially nice for movies or immersive music. Comfort is good thanks to the over-ear design with faux leather ear cups, which also help with noise isolation.

Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) is fully adaptive, allowing you to block out distractions, and there's a Transparency mode to let in outside sounds when needed. The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 40 hours on a single charge, and a quick 10-minute charge provides 4 hours of playback, ideal for long trips or daily use. On-device controls let you handle calls, music, and voice assistant commands easily with touch and button controls. The included microphone focuses on your voice to keep calls clear. Wireless connection uses Bluetooth 5.3 with a good range and fewer dropouts, and the headphones also include a wired option with the 3.5mm cable.

One downside to consider is that these headphones aren't water-resistant, so they may not be the best choice for heavy workouts or outdoor use in wet conditions. Also, while comfortable, the faux leather material can get warm after extended wear. The Beats Studio Pro is a strong choice for users wanting premium sound quality, strong noise cancelling, long battery life, and versatile device compatibility, especially if you use Apple or Android smartphones.

The Sony WH-1000XM6 are high-end over-ear wireless headphones known for their impressive noise cancellation capabilities. Their advanced processors and 12 microphones work together to block out ambient noise effectively, making them ideal for noisy environments like airplanes or busy streets. Sound quality is excellent, with clear, balanced audio crafted alongside mastering engineers, supporting high-resolution audio for richer listening.

Comfort is a strong point thanks to a wider, soft synthetic leather headband and adjustable, swivel ear cups designed to reduce pressure during long use. Battery life supports up to 30 hours of playback, and quick charging provides 3 hours of use from just a 3-minute charge. Connectivity relies on Bluetooth with support for high-quality audio transmission, and the headphones also work wired if needed.

The microphone system is advanced too, with six microphones using AI to ensure clear voice calls even in windy or noisy settings. The foldable design and sturdy build make them easy to carry and durable enough for travel. Some users might find the touch controls a bit sensitive, and the price is towards the premium side. These headphones are great for music lovers and frequent travelers who want top-notch noise cancellation and comfort, while those looking for simpler, budget headphones might consider other options.