How To Choose The Best Open-Back Headphones For Your Needs? [2023]

You’ve found the perfect place if you’re looking for suggestions on the top open-back headphones on the market. I have listed my advice in this guide for various budgets to assist you in making wise purchasing decisions.
But first, let’s define open-back headphones and discuss why you might want to buy some.
What Are Open-Back Headphones?
Compared to closed-back headphones, open-back headphones offer a distinctive listening experience. Considering that open-back headphones don’t have a backplate, sound from the speakers first hits your ears before echoing into the space adjacent to your head.
On the other hand, with closed-back headphones, sound reaches your ears, bounces off the back of the headphones, and then echoes back towards your head.
Some listeners find that wearing closed-back headphones during extended listening sessions makes their ears sweaty. Open-back headphones do not have this issue because they are continually vented.
Your favorite songs may sound more enjoyable because some listeners say that wearing open-back headphones is more like listening to music through speakers. Others favor open-back headphones because they are typically lighter than closed-back headphones.
The best open-back headphones offer a radically different listening experience, so if you haven’t tried them yet, I strongly advise doing so.
Benefits Of Open-Back Headphones
Here are the benefits of open-back headphones:
- Studio mixing/mastering — Open-back headphones are good choice if you want the flattest response and most excellent approximation of how your music will sound on various playback systems.
- Home listening — Open-back headphones can create a soundscape like never before, whether the music is rock, classical, live, or recorded. The best mixes practically allow you to pinpoint the sources in the stereo field as if the performers were in front of you on stage.
- Real-world music consumption — Open-back headphones are excellent for hiking or going to work because you can still hear approaching bikes and oncoming traffic.
How I Picked The Best Open-Back Headphones
My favorite open-back headphones are the result of a combination of research and practical testing. The criteria I gave the most weight when choosing which headphones to include in my buyer’s guide are listed below.
Over-Ear Headphones
These headphones have the best audio quality because they are the largest. Large drivers in over-ear headphones can create sound with both loudness and fidelity.
Over-ear headphones offer a better listening experience because the ear cups completely enclose your ear. The disadvantage of over-ear headphones is that they are less portable due to their larger size and bulky than the other headphone types.
On-Ear Headphones
This kind of headphone lies between the two extremes: less bulky than over-ear headphones and better audio quality than earbuds. On-ear headphones completely enclose your ears by placing cushioned ear pads on top.
If you tend to sweat more or don’t enjoy the feel of material touching your face, you might want to consider this.
Earbud Headphones
The most cost-effective headphone design comes with one trade-off: audio quality. The fidelity of earbuds’ sound is reduced because there isn’t enough room for a lot of equipment. However, headphone makers have benefited from technological advancements (mostly the downsizing of essential components) to close that gap.
Headphone Style
The three primary types of headphones are over-ear, on-ear, and earbud models. When choosing the best open-back headphones for you, remember the advantages and disadvantages of each headphone design.
Connector
When choosing a pair of wired open-back headphones, it’s essential to know where the cable attaches. Some open-back headphones terminate in a 1/4-inch connector, which is larger than a standard headphone jack but allows direct connection to a headphone amplifier.
Other open-back headphones end into the common 1/8-inch connector, allowing you to connect them directly to a computer or tablet.
Sound Leakage
One of the most critical differences between open-back and closed-back headphones is the amount of sound leaking. Anyone around will be able to hear your music because open-back headphones leak sound a lot.
Open-back headphones could annoy those nearby if you typically listen to audio in a public space, such as the living room, office, or public transit vehicle.
Wired vs. Wireless
One of the most notable differences between open-back and closed-back headphones is the amount of sound leaking. Open-back headphones leak sound a lot, so anyone nearby can hear your music.
Open-back headphones could irritate people if you usually listen to audio in a public setting, such as the living room, office, or a public vehicle.
Comparison Of Best Open-Back Headphones
IMAGE | MODEL | FEATURES | COST | RATING |
Sennheiser HD 800 S | Innovative absorber technology, 56mm ring radiator transducers, Unique ear cup design | CHECK PRICE | 4.6 / 5 | |
Philips Fidelio X2HR | Acoustic open-back architecture, Lightweight self-adjustable hammock, 3. 5Mm connector | CHECK PRICE | 4.6 / 5 | |
Philips SHP9500 | Frequency response range of 12Hz to 35,000Hz, 1.5m cable gives you freedom of movement, Comfortable double layered headband cushion | CHECK PRICE | 4.6 / 5 | |
Beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X | STELLAR.45 driver comes with an impedance of 48 ohms, Detailed, spacious, and transparent sound, Superb wearing comfort | CHECK PRICE | 4.7 / 5 | |
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro | Wired connectivity, Soft, circumaural, and replaceable velour ear pads, Practical single-sided cable (3.0m coiled cable) | CHECK PRICE | 4.7 / 5 | |
Sennheiser HD 400 PRO | Angled transducers designed for low distortion, Neutral sound reproduction, Wired connectivity | CHECK PRICE | 4.5 / 5 | |
Sennheiser HD 560S | Wide soundstage from ergonomic acoustic refinement, 1/4-inch connector, Wired connectivity | CHECK PRICE | 4.7 / 5 | |
Sennheiser HD650 | 10 41000 Hz frequency response, Hand-selected matched driver elements, Lightweight aluminum voice coils | CHECK PRICE | 4.7 / 5 | |
Audio-Technica ATH-AD900X | 53mm Drivers and CCAW Voice coils, 3d Wing support housing offers, Extremely Comfortable Ear-fitting Pads | CHECK PRICE | 4.4 / 5 | |
Samson SR850 | Proprietary significant 50mm drivers with rare earth magnets, Circumaural, over-ear, design with velour cushioning, Self-adjusting headband for optimal fit | CHECK PRICE | 4.6 / 5 | |
Grado GW100 v2 | Lightweight and comfortable design, Bluetooth connectivity, One ear form | CHECK PRICE | 4.3 / 5 |
Let us explore each of the listed open-back headphones.
Top Open-Back Headphones You Can Buy Right Now
Sennheiser HD 800 S
Incredibly clear, accurate, and comfortable headphone
SPECIFICATIONS
- open-back, around ear, reference class dynamic headphone
- Innovative absorber technology
- 56mm ring radiator transducers
- Unique ear cup design
- Single-ended 1/4 inches
- Balanced 4. 4 mm Pentacon cable
- Wired connectivity
- Over-ear form
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
Sennheiser hit the appropriate frequency response with HD 800 S. Nothing protrudes too far to induce distortion or sibilance. Even though dynamic drivers may have physical restrictions, this is unquestionably the most outstanding headphone implementation available.
Sennheiser is renowned for creating headphones that look entirely out of this world. HD 800 S is a perfect illustration of that. They are shaped to ensure an excellent fit for human ears because of the headphone design. When wearing headphones for long periods, dense earpads with soft fabric offer superior comfort.
These open-back headphones are exceptionally well made, featuring a premium plastic body, aluminum cups, and detachable cables. These can survive for many years with proper maintenance.
These remain the gold standard for what an accurate pair of headphones should sound like, even after a very long period.
Philips Fidelio X2HR
Exceptional quality construction and sound
SPECIFICATIONS
- Engineered double layered ear-shells with pre-tilted speaker plates
- 50 mm high definition neodymium drivers
- Hi-res Audio Certified with extended response frequencies
- Acoustic open-back architecture
- Lightweight self-adjustable hammock
- 3. 5Mm connector
- 1/4-Inch Stereo
- Wired connectivity
- Over Ear form
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
Although open-back headphones are infamous for having poor low-end bass, Philips managed to make these extremely bassy.
Thankfully, the middle range and treble, where you can still hear a tonne of information, are not affected by the lower frequencies. They also work well as gaming headphones because you can listen to the soundstage.
The Fidelio X2HR open-back headphones are superbly constructed. They have a small amount of plastic on them, which gives them a quality feel in your hands. These headphones are also incredibly simple to use from a phone compared to other audiophile models.
Once they’re on your head, you’ll experience the luxurious comfort level that the velour cushions’ copious cushioning offers. Check out how to keep them clean because dirt accumulates fairly quickly.
Philips SHP9500
Best budget open headphones on the market
SPECIFICATIONS
- 1.5m cable gives you freedom of movement
- Comfortable double layered headband cushion
- Frequency response range of 12Hz to 35,000Hz
- 50mm neodymium drivers
- Over-ear form
- Wired connectivity
- Gold-plated connector
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
These open-back headphones feature a comprehensive frequency response, a well-balanced sound signature, and a sizable sound stage, just like the Fidelio model.
They are an excellent choice if you want to hear even the slightest sound in your favorite songs when using a gaming headset or for music.
The earpads’ fabric is highly breathable, preventing them from getting too sweaty after extended listening sessions. Additionally, they are thickly padded, giving you the impression of wearing clouds.
Considering how inexpensive they are, their sturdy construction is also unique. Drivers are coated in a metallic mesh with large L/R letters imprinted on it—Replaceable 1.5m copper cable with gold-plated connections.
SHP9500 were significantly more expensive, costing well over $100; they are a great deal at their current price of $75.
Beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X
Perfect for competitive gaming
SPECIFICATIONS
- STELLAR.45 driver comes with an impedance of 48 ohms
- Detailed, spacious, and transparent sound
- Superb wearing comfort
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
The DT 900 Pro Xs from Beyerdynamic are open-back headphones for listeners that use headphones for several hours each day.
The manufacturer includes two cables with the DT 900 Pro X headphones, one of which ends into a 1/4-inch jack and the other into a 1/8-inch jack.
I appreciate that Beyerdynamic gives you a variety of cables to use. Still, I couldn’t help but bemoan the non-standard connector that goes into the headphones, which makes it more challenging to switch cables out on the cheap.
If you treat your headphones gently, this shouldn’t be a problem, but it’s crucial to be aware before purchasing a set of DT 900 Pro Xs.
I’ve had positive experiences with the audio quality of the DT 900 Pro X headphones. The sound of the music is clear, lively, and almost surprisingly lifelike.
Live tracks sound excellent through these headphones, recreating the experience of being at a live performance. Beyerdynamic says these headphones are suitable for mixing and mastering music, and I concur that they would be an excellent choice for that purpose.
The Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro Xs are an excellent set of headphones that any music enthusiast will immediately appreciate.
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro
Ideal for professional mixing, mastering, and editing
SPECIFICATIONS
- Transparent, spacious, strong bass and treble sound
- Soft, circumaural, and replaceable velour ear pads
- Practical single-sided cable (3.0m coiled cable)
- Wired connectivity
- On-Ear form
- Durable
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
The bass delivers a good punch and attack without disturbing the midrange, which is highly detailed and accurate. The same holds for upper mids & lower treble, which are enhanced to add clarity, although, at times, it may be sibilant.
All Beyerdynamic headphones studio monitors are manufactured in Germany, guaranteeing higher quality control. The hard plastic earcups and metallic frames are clothed in padded leather.
The DT 990 Pro open-backs come with velour earpads with thick padding. It feels like wearing a pillow on your head when wearing these headphones.
You can get a dependable mixing and mastering device for a little more than $150 (or less).
Sennheiser HD 400 PRO
Made for project and professional mixing sessions
SPECIFICATIONS
- Angled transducers designed for low distortion
- Neutral sound reproduction
- Wired connectivity
- Lightweight design
- Single-sided, coiled cable
- Over-ear form
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
Sennheiser continues to produce excellent, cost-effective neutral headphones. These headphones are specifically designed for home studio use and for checking the balance of their mixes. Those seeking big bass should look elsewhere.
The sound of the headphones is excellent and open, with good imaging. Some may find them boring, but they are indispensable tools for music creators.
The Sennheiser design is adopted in an all-black plastic build, keeping them lightweight. Massive ear pads that cover your ears keep them from feeling at all.
The box includes two cables, one 1.8-meter straight cable, and one 3-meter coiled cable.
Sennheiser HD 560S
Great, accurate, high-quality headphones
SPECIFICATIONS
- Natural and accurate reference sound
- Wide soundstage from ergonomic acoustic refinement
- 1/4-inch connector
- Wired connectivity
- Over Ear form
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
The HD 560S headphones, a welcome new addition to the Sennheiser HD family, offers a good, neutral listening experience for less than $200.
Although a little toasty, the sound is quite natural and has a lot of treble detail recovery. They are the modern audiophile’s “budget” option.
The style is comparable to other HD headphones in the portfolio. They are an excellent option for hours of continuous use because they are lightweight and include comfy earpads.
Their open-back design guarantees ventilation and additionally increases the soundstage. Thanks to its detailed treble, you can efficiently utilize the HD 560 S for gaming.
Additionally, the wire can be easily removed if you need to upgrade.
Sennheiser HD650
A legendary headphone that’s worth the hype
SPECIFICATIONS
- Specially designed acoustic silk
- 10 41000 Hz frequency response
- Hand-selected matched driver elements
- Lightweight aluminum voice coils
- Highly optimized magnet systems
- 118 inches cable length
- Wired connectivity
- Over Ear form
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
Since the Sennheiser HD650 headphones have been available for almost 20 years, many people in the audiophile community continue to like and recommend them.
The headphones have a utilitarian appearance, and the 40mm dynamic drivers are of an older generation. The HD650s still perform well in measurements despite having an outdated driver design, and their professional appearance makes up for it.
Their midrange performance distinguishes them from the competition. The HD650’s mids are gorgeous. Every nuanced vocal articulation, the acoustic guitar’s strum, and the piano keys’ undertone are all showcased in all their splendor.
The treble is unhurried while still having an airy and extended quality. Most facts are available for the listener to pick up at their leisure, so nothing is forced upon them. This level of performance is extraordinary, given the asking price.
Audio-Technica ATH-AD900X
Entry-level audiophile headphone
SPECIFICATIONS
- 53mm Drivers and CCAW Voice coils
- 3d Wing support housing offers
- Extremely Comfortable Ear-fitting Pads
- Wired connectivity
- Over-ear form
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
Although they don’t have a lot of bass response, they excel in the mid-range and treble. Since you can hear foes long before you see them in games, most people choose those frequencies since they are incredibly resolving.
The most distinctive-looking headphones on our list are these. Even though the 3D self-adjusting wing mechanism appears fragile, it does a fantastic job of holding the AD900X in place.
The earcups on headphones are large and elegantly rounded, and the velour earpads are soft against your ears. Ear cups are big enough to fit your ears comfortably.
Due to their tiny drivers, which you can see through, these headphones have outstanding breathability. The 6.3mm adaptor is included with headphones.
Samson SR850
Designed for tracking, mixing, mastering, and playback
SPECIFICATIONS
- Proprietary significant 50mm drivers with rare earth magnets
- Circumaural, over-ear, design with velour cushioning
- Self-adjusting headband for optimal fit
- Wired connectivity
- Over-ear form
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
The audio fidelity is exceptional for this price range. While other top inexpensive headphones like the Superlux HD668B offer comparable performance, Samson’s neodymium drivers are more balanced, with deeper bass and controlled treble.
These purportedly use the same drivers as certain headphones that are far more expensive; the primary cost-saving measure was the excellent build quality.
They are composed entirely of plastic, which may potentially be advantageous. As a result, these inexpensive open headphones are surprisingly light, given their size. It provides good comfort, especially if you don’t wear glasses.
SR850 is also reasonably durable despite the absence of premium components. The spring for the self-adjusting headband is the only component that seems slightly slack, although we have used them for years.
Grado GW100 v2
One of the top open-back headphones
SPECIFICATIONS
- Offers larger sound stage
- Lightweight and comfortable design
- Bluetooth connectivity
- One ear form
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
The original GW100s had outstanding audio quality and kept the classic, understated design of Grado’s wired open-back headphones. Their distinctive design is noticeable from the minute you take the GW100s out of the box until the end of each listening session. I mean, these headphones simply look great.
The ear pads of the GW100, which are constructed of porous foam rather than leather, are a more contentious design decision. Although slightly more abrasive than the materials used by most headphone makers, the material Grado picked felt comfortable.
The first-generation GW100s have been my go-to headphones for listening to music for a long time, and I’ve always considered them surprisingly good for wireless headphones.
That’s because practically every pair of wireless headphones available right now have a closed-back design; enjoying the natural sound of open-ear headphones anywhere you go is incredibly enticing.
I was extremely pleased with how effectively Grado could replicate its wired headphones’ generally neutral sound profile in a cable-free set.
These headphones’ second version also supports Bluetooth 5 for enhanced connectivity and range and support for the newest audio codecs. Thus their audio quality has improved.
The Grado GW100 V2s provide up to 40 hours of music playback on a single charge in terms of battery life. The 3.5mm audio output on the headphones allows you to connect them to your preferred source if they run out of battery.
Things To Consider While Buying Open-Back Headphones
Here are the things to consider while purchasing open-back headphones:
Musical Taste
Since they don’t form a tight seal around your ear, open-back headphones don’t provide the same level of bass response as closed-back headphones. Although you can still plainly hear bass frequencies, they won’t be as audible as with a closed-back pair of headphones. If you like music with lots of basses, you should consider this.
Noise Cancellation
No matter if they are wired or wireless, open-back headphones lack any form of noise cancellation. Because your entire ear needs to be entirely encircled to block out sounds literally, that function necessitates closed-back headphones.
Open-Back Headphones Vs. Closed-Back — What’s The Difference?
The audio drivers in conventional closed-back headphones are isolated from the environment. This closed-back design has two benefits: improved bass response and solitary listening. Reference audio is kept inside closed-back headphones, while background noise, such as traffic and neighboring conversations, is kept outside.
The problem with closed-back headphones is that they can sound hyped, feel unnaturally “within your head,” and be physically uncomfortable to sure listeners since there is no flow of air and the air inside the ear cups are confined around your ears.
Headphones with an open-back are an alternative. These headphones are excellent at producing a natural soundscape and convincing realism. Open-back headphones don’t have a seal enclosing the drivers from the outside environment as closed-back models do.
It frequently leads to more organic bass and an airier sound that is more accurate and better captures the show’s content. There is less isolation with open-back headphones. Additionally to ambient noise, the music you’re listening to tends to bleed out. And believe that moderately loud open-back headphones listening in close quarters will drive your neighbors, friends, and family crazy.
Similar to how closed- and open-back guitar cabinets differ, so do closed- and open-back headphones. Open-back cabs typically sound more open and indicate the driver’s contributions, but closed-back cabs give you greater bass resonance and rear isolation.
Semi-open headphones bridge the gap between these two types of headphones by providing some isolation while retaining the open-back style’s natural response.
FAQs On Open-Back Headphones
1. What’s the point of open-back headphones?
Air from the back of the speaker driver can enter the ear cups of headphones with an open-back. As a result, the rear enclosure’s resonances & low-frequency buildup are not important. Open-back headphones are common in high-end, pricey models because they produce a more natural and crisp sound.
2. Are open-back headsets better?
The soundstage of an open-back headphone is one of its best features. By employing this idea, open-back headphones can produce a far more realistic spatial image while maintaining a conventional stereo sound field.
3. Can others hear open-back headphones?
Open-backed headphones may be acceptable at low sound levels, but at louder settings, people will be able to hear you.
Note: The background noise may drown out the sound that escapes through headphones in noisy places.
4. Are open-back headphones healthier?
Since the design of open-back headphones lessens the intensity of the sound transmitted, they are safer for prolonged use and better for your ears. Open-back headphones also reduce the danger of eardrum damage from loud noises, ear canal problems, and heat rash.
5. Why are open headphones better than closed?
Although open-back headphones produce a cleaner, clearer, and more accurate sound in the end, closed headphones generally have a more thrilling tone to the music. It may be helpful to consider what type of music you listen to most frequently to decide which one will provide you with the best experience for your needs.
6. Is open-back better for gaming?
Generally, gamers prefer open-back headphones because they produce a larger soundstage and offer a superior stereo image. Additionally, they are comfier for the wearer and value the more realistic sound.
7. Do closed-back headphones leak sound?
It is expected that open-back headphones will leak far more than closed-back models. It makes it natural that they would also let in more music since they enable more background noise to accompany your audio. If you wish to stop sound leakage, it is advisable to get headphones with closed backs.
8. Do closed-back headphones have more bass?
Compared to open-back headphones, closed-back headphones typically have a less “organic” sound. However, closed-back headphones frequently perform better when it comes to bass response.
9. Why do people prefer open-back headphones?
Audiophiles favor open-back headphones over closed-back headphones because they sound better and have a more airy sound. As with closed-back models, the audio is typically less harsh and may be listened to comfortably at home.
10. Why are most audiophile headphones open-back?
Open-back headphones are standard in high-end, pricey models because they produce a more natural and crisp sound.
11. Do open-back headphones leak into mic?
Open-back headphones have a ventilated back that allows sound to spill into the mic, where the mic may pick it up. However, you can minimize or avoid this leakage altogether if the sound level and microphone sensitivity are both low and the microphone is kept far away from the headphone.
12. Is it better to mix with open-back or closed-back headphones?
Open-backs might make it simpler to maintain your reference and make appropriate mixing judgments deep into sessions. In addition to letting your ears breathe a little, the air passing through the headphones will typically make them more pleasant for extended listening sessions than closed-backs.
13. Are Razer Kraken open-back?
Razer Kraken is closed, despite having an open-back appearance.
14. How much better is open-back headphones?
Better sound quality can be found with open-back headphones. In my experience, people looking for the highest sound quality from their headphones should almost always consider open-back headphones. Although there are some exceptions. Most audiophile-grade headphones provide good ventilation.
15. Can you record vocals with open-back headphones?
Open-back headphones can be used for recording. However, bleeding directly back into the microphone is likely a problem. It is not a problem if you are not utilizing a microphone, such as when you are DI’d directly into your interface. Open-back headphones are not advised for recording when using a microphone.
16. How loud is too loud open-back headphones?
The World Health Organization (WHO) advises only 8 hours of headphone use at an intensity of 85 decibels (dB). However, the sound intensity of standard audio equipment ranges from 75 to 136 dB.
17. Why do my ears leak when I wear headphones?
Your ears become damp and sweaty when you wear earbuds. Each time you insert your earbuds, you push back the earwax that helps to keep your ears clean. The wax accumulation in your ear canal may obstruct or impact ear wax.
18. What are the difference between open and closed-back headphones?
The bass impact of sound waves produced by enclosed ear cups is stronger and extends deeper into the sub-bass range. Additionally, sound isolation is improved.
Open-back headphones can sound incredibly natural and detailed but can’t get to the deep notes needed for a hip-hop or rap song to feel immersive. Therefore, bass enthusiasts shouldn’t listen to them.
19. What are semi-open headphones?
A cross between closed-back and open-back headphones is the semi-open design. They should be more effective in reducing sound leakage and isolating outside sounds.
The difference is audible in practice, particularly in the bass, which is substantially more profound than a fully open design. Isolation, however, is just somewhat superior. Therefore, listening to loud music on a bus while wearing semi-open headphones is still inappropriate.
20. Can you improve your existing cheap headphones?
By replacing the earpads on your current headphones with suitable ones, you can improve them.
21. Are open-back headphones lighter than closed-back headphones?
No, not always. Open-back headphones, especially over-ear sets, can contain quite a bit of padding, even if they are composed of less material. Some materials used to create open-back headphones are heavier or denser than those used to develop closed-back sets.
22. Why aren’t open-back headphones more popular?
Since active noise-cancellation is now a standard component of headphones, closed-back pairs have gained popularity. Another significant factor is the open-back headphones’ significant sound leakage, which limits their utility in public settings.
23. Are open-back headphones good for music production?
Yes. One of the main advantages of utilizing open-back headphones is that they will better represent how your music will sound through speakers. Nevertheless, since most of your listeners will probably listen to your music on closed-back headphones, ensuring that each track sounds well on that equipment is crucial.
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Summary
Having used both open-back and closed-back headphones, I suggest having a set of each on hand whenever you can. Both types of headphones make listening to music different depending on the music you’re listening to or how many people are nearby. You can find yourself favoring one over the other.
The comparison between open-back headphones and speakers was mainly accurate, in my opinion, and I did enjoy the more authentic sound that open-back headphones generated. The only drawback is that you might be unable to listen to music everywhere you go because of their sound leakage.