The best closed back headphones take you to a different world of sound, allowing you to tune out the world around you and lose yourself in a new audio environment.
These kinds of headphones are great for people who want privacy, to listen to music and movies with the full, rich sound they were designed for, or to focus at work without being distracted by outside noise.
Whether you’re looking for closed back headphones for gaming or recording, or you’re looking for budget closed back headphones under 100 dollars, 200 dollars, or 500 dollars…we’ve got you(r ears) covered!Our Picks
Best Closed Back Headphones (Overall)
The Status Audio CB-1 closed back headphones are designed for professionals who need to do critical listening in an isolated, neutral audio environment.
Most headphones enhance the audio to some degree, but the Status Audio CB-1s are designed to reproduce audio faithfully to the source. The classic, non-branded look, comfortable lightweight design, and easy portability make these a great choice for almost any need.
Gamers have special considerations for headphones, so see our “best headphones for gaming” recommendation below, but for the best sound experience in games and movies, you need a big, detailed sound space.
These Master & Dynamic MH40 premium over-ear headphones have an incredible soundscape, with rich, warm detail and great isolation that lets you have a truly immersive experience.
These headphones are also incredibly stylish, luxurious to wear, and have a lot of convenient features, like iOS compatibility, an omni-directional microphone, and come with a headphone case and cable box.
The Sennheiser HD 598 Cs headphones are award-winning headphones that create rich, immersive sound experiences in a room-like ambience specifically designed to enhance your enjoyment of music and be comfortable for prolonged listening sessions.
The high-quality materials, advanced Sennheiser technologies, and ergonomic design give your music the richness, depth, and complexity it deserves.
Sennheiser HD 598 Cs Closed Back Headphones
The V-MODA Crossfade M-100 closed back headphones collapse down to an incredibly small size, due to their CliqFold hinges, and come with a stylish carrying case. They also include one cable with a microphone for calling, and another piggyback jack cable for sharing your audio with a friend.
These headphones have incredible sound, a fantastic, flattering style, and are built to withstand high and low temperatures, UV rays, and even salt spray. They are fast becoming the favorite of DJs around the world, and are perfect to take anywhere.
For a more affordable option, see our “best portable headphones” below.What are Closed Back Headphones?
Closed back headphones have a shape that not only completely covers the ear (an over-ear design), but they have a closed construction that seals over the ear, excluding external noises. Open-back headphones look similar in cup shape, but are designed to allow some sound exchange between the headphones and the environment.
Closed back headphones are best when you want to completely immerse yourself in your private audio environment, and also when you want to prevent sound “leakage,” where those around you can hear the sound from your headphones.What to Look for in Closed back Headphones
There are a few key features to consider when shopping for closed back headphones. Here are the most important:
Isolation and Leakage
Isolation is the ability to separate your headphone sound from the world around you. Closed back headphones have an advantage in this respect, because the cup shape holds sound better.
However, cup shape isn't the only factor that influences the headphones' ability to isolate sound. The material that the cups are made of is also a big factor in isolation. Foam can have incredible sound isolation properties, but not all foams are created equally, and some foams also retain a lot of heat.
Unfortunately, the best way to create sound isolation is with thick, dense material, but ear cups also need to be comfortable and conform naturally to your body. Most manufacturers strike a balance between these two demands, and some do it better than others.Comfort
Headphones can be surprisingly uncomfortable when worn for extended periods of time. In the desire for sound isolation and perfection, closed back headphones can also become big and heavy, which makes them uncomfortable.
Headphone comfort can be a particular challenge for people with large or small heads, or for those with large ears, and headphones can also make it uncomfortable to wear eyeglasses.
While most closed back headphones have headband and ear cup padding, if you are prone to headphone discomfort, then there are a few things to look for. Split band headbands, adjustable headbands, rotating ear cups, and lightweight materials are all helpful in making headphones more comfortable over long wear.
Cables
Connections
Remember that it is always best to avoid adapters when possible, and simply use cables with the right connections end-to-end, or to use the best quality adapters you can get when they are necessary.
Adapters are likely to affect the integrity of your audio signal, and low-quality adapters are even worse. Often times people think that their headphones are performing poorly or not worth the money, when in fact they have connected high-quality headphones with low-quality cables and adapters.
Your headphones are only as good as the signal they get, so protect the signal whenever possible.
Best Closed Back Headphones Comparison Table
Closed Back Headphones Reviews
Best Closed Back Headphones Under 100 Dollars
The new model of the Sennheiser HD280Pro headphones have a lot to offer at an affordable price. They are designed for professional audio monitoring, with highly accurate linear sound reproduction that is warm and natural. They offer excellent attenuation of ambient noise, excluding up to 32 dB of external sound. And the compact, collapsible shape, comfortable padding, and durable design give these headphones lasting comfort, value, and portability at a very reasonable price.
Pros
Cons
Summary
Sennheiser is a legendary headphone brand, and these headphones are designed to give you professional audio quality in a compact, lightweight form at an affordable price. They offer fantastic sound for less than $100.
Best Closed Back Headphones Under 200 Dollars
These Master & Dynamic MH40 premium over-ear headphones have a unique designer look inspired by the legendary Leica camera. They balance high-style aesthetics, lasting comfort, and exceptional sound into one pair of stylish, over the ear headphones.
They have great noise isolation and excellent sound, powered by a custom, high-performance 45 mm neodymium driver. Tuned for warm, rich sound and high detail, they have a natural sound signature and expansive soundscape. They have dual audio ports, an inline microphone, and a mute button.
Master & Dynamic has used high-quality materials in every aspect of construction, including oxygen-free copper cables that reduce signal noise. These headphones are made of aluminum for light weight, with stainless steel construction in all high-strain areas for durability.
The interchangeable ear pads have luxury materials, wrapped in soft lambskin. The headband is covered in premium cowhide leather, and they come with a canvas headphone case and luxurious leather cable box.
Pros
Cons
Summary
The Master & Dynamic MH40 premium over-ear headphones are made with quality and attention to detail inside and out, from the high-quality and luxurious materials, to the fantastic sound reproduction, to the exceptional aesthetics and sheer style of these headphones.
Thoughtful features like the replaceable ear cups, detachable cables, convenient mute button, and included case and cable box make these an all-around crowd pleasing set of headphones. Seamless compatibility with Apple devices is an excellent feature. The sound is a bit bass-heavy, which some people prefer and some don't; it depends on your usage and audio preferences.Best Closed Back Headphones Under 300 Dollars
The V-MODA Crossfade M-100 closed back headphones are a favorite of DJs, with fantastic sound and unbeatable style. They have won awards and rave reviews all over the internet. Their patented 50 mm dual-diaphragm drivers provide excellent separation between bass, mid-tones, and highs, for clean, vivid sound throughout the frequency range.
They create deep, immersive 3D sound with minimal leakage and great isolation. They are made of military-grade materials for exceptional durability, and resistant to temperature, salt spray, and UV rays. The cables and plug can be bent over 1 million times with no damage or loss of audio quality, and are detachable for easy replacement.
The unusual design isn't just a fashion statement; the hexagonal shape is more ergonomic, and the headband and cup shape are designed to comfortably contour the shape of your face and be flattering to wear. Finally, the unique CliqFold hinge system collapses these headphones down to an incredibly small size, making them fantastic for travel. They come with a rugged carrying case.
Pros
Cons
Summary
The Master & Dynamic MH40 premium over-ear headphones are made with quality and attention to detail inside and out, from the high-quality and luxurious materials, to the fantastic sound reproduction, to the exceptional aesthetics and sheer style of these headphones.
Thoughtful features like the replaceable ear cups, detachable cables, convenient mute button, and included case and cable box make these an all-around crowd pleasing set of headphones. Seamless compatibility with Apple devices is an excellent feature. The sound is a bit bass-heavy, which some people prefer and some don't; it depends on your usage and audio preferences.Best Closed Back Headphones Under 500 Dollars
The Shure SRH1540 premium closed back headphones have a 40 mm neodymium driver that delivers clear highs and warm bass, with an expansive soundstage. The steel driver frame improves linearity and minimizes internal resonance for clarity and consistency at every volume level. Oxygen-free copper cables with Kevlar-reinforced jackets are built for endurance and performance.
Premium aircraft-grade aluminum and carbon fiber construction ensure rugged durability without adding weight. The dual frame headband is padded and lightweight for hours of comfort, while the replaceable Alcantara ear pads provide great comfort along with sound isolation. Gold-plated connectors are secure and detachable for easy storage or replacement. It comes with an additional cable, replacement ear pads, and a zippered storage case.Pros
Cons
Summary
Shure has been producing exceptional audio devices for 85 years, and the Shure SRH1540 premium closed back headphones are a great addition to that tradition. The sound is rich, immersive, and detailed, with clarity and a big sound stage that is ideal for games and movies.
These headphones are light in weight and can be worn comfortably for long periods of time, and the included replaceable cables and ear cups mean that you can easily enjoy these headphones for years to come.Best Closed Back Headphones for Gaming
The Sennheiser GSP 300 gaming headphones have a lot of thoughtful design improvements and features to make your gaming experience even more immersive without intrusive, fussy controls. These headphones have exceptional sound clarity and bass reproduction, with memory foam ear cups that improve ambient noise isolation.
The noise cancelling microphone gives crystal-clear chat, and can be quickly muted by just lifting the boom arm. The padded, split headband is designed for lasting comfort, and volume controls are located on the right ear for easy adjustments as often as needed. The rugged construction is built to last, and the 3.5 mm connector gives excellent compatibility with different audio inputs.Pros
Cons
Summary
The Sennheiser GSP 300 are excellent entry-level gaming headphones, with a durable, comfortable design, and convenient features that make them work with minimal adjustments, keeping your hands free for the game. They have great style, and provide fantastic clarity and realism for your gaming experience.
Best Closed Back Headphones for Recording
The Status Audio CB-1 closed back headphones are designed for critical listening, perfect for recording, mixing, mastering, editing, and other crucial audio environments. The 50 mm drivers provide great sound detail and an expansive sound stage, and the padded cups create reliable noise isolation. They have a classic, unbranded visual aesthetic, with high-style gold accents. Memory foam earpads and the padded headband have lasting comfort, and they collapse down to a small size for portability.
Pros
Cons
Summary
The Status Audio CB-1 closed back headphones have exceptional reviews all over the web from professionals and casual users alike. They are great for casual, mobile use when listening to music on the go, or for close monitoring in studio environments. They have a fantastic, stylish look and provide lasting comfort and easy portability.
Best Closed Back Over-Ear Headphones
The Sony MDR1A Premium Hi-Res stereo headphones have a 4-conductor cable for better signal separation and improved sound quality. The inline remote and microphone make it easy to use hands-free in a variety of environments, and it comes with high-grade audio cables for nearly any input. Advanced smartphone compatibility allows you to use the free SmartKey app to customize your headphone settings.
The 100 kHz Sony Sound Reproduction, 40 mm driver units with ALCP, improved Beat Response Control, and wide-frequency response range give these headphones incredible sound quality in any application. And the sleek style, enduring comfort, and optimal fit make these great headphones for a wide range of uses.Pros
Cons
Summary
The Sony MDR1A Premium Hi-Res stereo headphones are designed to deliver exceptional audio quality and clarity, with Sony sound reproduction and beat response technologies for a great frequency range. They are made with high-quality cables and connectors for improved signal quality and separation. It's easy to use them hands-free, and adjust with the free Android app.
They have a sleek style and come with a carrying pouch for easy transport of the headphones and cables. These headphones are top-rated by C-Net and audio professionals alike.Best Portable Closed Back Headphones
The Senal SMH-1000 closed back professional monitor headphones have many of the features that audio professionals require in headphones. They have a 40 mm driver, with 10-20 kHz frequency range and 58 ohms impedance, and less than 5% distortion. They have an enhanced low end response and extended high frequency response for improved spatial detail.
The midrange is smoothed to reduce ear fatigue over long listening sessions. They have a padded headband and soft ear cushions designed to block unwanted environmental noise. They come with a coiled cable, a straight cable, and a gold-plated 1/4” adapter. They also collapse for easy transport and storage, and the ear cups are replaceable for a prolonged life at an affordable price.
Pros
Cons
Summary
The Senal SMH-1000 closed back professional monitor headphones are designed to deliver exceptional audio quality in the studio and in the field, with frequency responses and ergonomic features to reduce fatigue and provide enduring performance and durability. The included twist-lock cables and high-quality adaptor improve sound quality, and the 3-year warranty ensures lasting value at a great price.
Best Budget Closed Back Headphones
The LyxPro HAS-15 studio headphones have great sound isolation, making them perfect for recording, monitoring, mixing, or casual enjoyment of music, games, and movies. The sound is rich and distortion-free, with 45 mm neodymium magnet drivers. They have excellent sensitivity and frequency response for all audio needs.
The comfortable leather ear pads and adjustable, stainless-steel, leather-covered headband provide lasting comfort, and they come with 2 detachable cables and a carrying pouch. The carrying pouch and rotatable cups make these easy to take with you anywhere, for professional audio monitoring or just enjoying your audio with minimal sound leakage and great isolation.Pros
Cons
Summary
The LyxPro HAS-15 studio headphones are lightweight and come with a carrying pouch for easy transport of the headphones and included cables. The detachable cables are easy to replace, giving these headphones a longer life. They have good dynamic response and audio quality, along with solid isolation and a comfortable, durable design. They don't have great high frequency response, so may not be ideal for all monitoring needs, but have excellent quality and portability in this price range.
Best Sennheiser Closed Back Headphones
The award-winning Sennheiser HD 598 Cs headphones are specifically designed to deliver rich, immersive, spatial sound experiences. The aluminum voice coils deliver high efficiency, excellent dynamics, and low distortion. and these headphones use advanced Sennheiser technologies to enhance the sound experience.
E.A.R technology channels audio signals into your ears, creating a room-like audio environment. The padded ear pads and headband pad are plush and comfortable, even over long wear. The included detachable cables include one cable with a 3.5 mm jack for mobile devices and calling, and the other cable has a 6.3 mm jack for home entertainment systems.Pros
Cons
Summary
The Sennheiser HD 598 Cs headphones have been a darling of audiophiles since they first appeared on the market. The big, immersive audio is great for any listening experience, but especially shines when listening to music, where excellent dynamics and low distortion are so essential. They are ergonomic and comfortable, and designed to last for years.
Conclusion
These headphones all give you exactly what you need in closed back headphones: fantastic sound, lasting comfort, and great isolation from background noise. Closed back headphones are a great way to separate yourself from the world around you and lose yourself in your favorite music or movie, or to shut out distractions and concentrate on the task at hand.
These closed back headphones will be your partner in workouts, study nights, gaming sessions, movie marathons, long commutes, and more, allowing you to hear audio more clearly and with fewer distractions than ever before. Enjoy your closed back headphones and open yourself to a new world of sound.
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