Closed back headphones are incredibly versatile, thus suitable for studio, home, commute and office use. Their noise isolation ability, sound quality and comfortable design make them ideal for music production, recording and mixing. Also, most sound engineers use closed back headphones for their daily work routine.
Due to the persistent demand of closed back headphones in the market, many manufacturers are now producing them. As such, they differ in designs, sound quality, comfort levels and prices. This review aims at helping you find a perfect fit from the clutter. Below is an in-depth discussion of 7 best closed back headphones under 500 dollars.
1. Bowers & Wilkins PX Headphones – Best Overall
Bowers & Wilkins PX is among the best headphones in the market today. It produces a good sound quality even at very high volumes.
The battery life is quite impressive. If not using it for noise isolation, the battery can last for up to 50 hours. If you use it for noise isolation, however, it will last for approximately 20 hours.
You can also use this headphone with your mobile gadgets, and it will still give very quality sound. If you are a lover of that deep, rich bass, this headphone offers you just that.
Concerning noise isolation, these headphones are super! They will help to close out the outside noise from your ears, letting you enjoy your music fully.
In case you still want to hear a little of what is going on around you, you need not worry. This pair of headphones allows you to adjust the outside noise level.
As such, it is an ideal pair for use while travelling or in the office.
Concerning connectivity, it comes with a detachable cable. In case you do not want to use the cable, the headphones also support 4.2 Bluetooth.
Bowers & Wilkins PXT are also very comfortable to use since they are comfort fit and very secure. Their earcups and headbands are also padded for increased comfort.
Although not the lightest in the market, they are still comfortable for travelling.
What We Liked
- Excellent noise isolation
- Premium build and durable
- Produce a quality sound
- Excellent and deep lows for bass lovers
- Sufficient control buttons
What We Didn’t Like
- Can be quite tight-fitting or long listening
2. Audeze Mobius Headphone
If you are looking for a good closed back gaming headphone, Audeze Mobius might be your best choice.
This headphone is popular for its well-defined and powerful sound. It produces a 3D audio which is quite stimulating to listen to. It also comes with a range of frequency of 10 Hz – 50 kHz.
You can also use this headphone without an audio cable. However, the battery will last for around 10 hours only. Moreover, it also supports Bluetooth 4.2, and it has an app control as well.
This headphone is also very common among band members. It can bring out every element of the instruments. As such, you can clearly hear the sound of each instrument in the band.
The other fantastic feature is that it comes with a detachable cable. You will need to plug using a 3.5 mm jack.
Included in the package are accessories such as a charging cable and a USB-C to USB-A. The headphones have a USB-C port and, it also comes with a carrying case.
Although not foldable, it is not very bulky, so you can still carry it along with you. It has in-built buttons that you can use to control the volume.
The other key feature of this headphone is noise isolation. It offers you noise isolation; thus, you can use it even in a noisy environment.
What We Liked
- It produces an excellent sound
- It offers a secure but comfortable grip
- Produces a great head-tracking 3D effect
- Has in-built buttons for volume control
- Offer noise isolation
What We Didn’t Like
- Earcups start feeling stuffy after using for an hour or so
3. Bose 700 Wireless Headphones – Best in control
If you are looking for headphones that offer you balanced sound, Bose 700 is your best choice.
It is a very popular headphone that offers you various ways of controlling it. Among the voice control options available are Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Siri. Moreover, you can also control it using an app.
This headphone can also effectively support Bluetooth 5.0.
The other unique feature is the rechargeable battery. It will take about 2.5 hours to charge fully, and then it will last for about 20 hours.
It is for this reason that it comes with a charging cable USB-C to USB-A. In case you are in a hurry, speed charging is also available for this pair of headphones.
The headphones are also popular for producing well-balanced audio. The sound comes low-end punch to give you a fully rounded sound. The highs are also very clear, and well balanced with the mids and the lows.
These headphones are also excellent in noise isolation. They also allow you to adjust the amount of noise you hear from outside. As such, you can use them comfortably as you travel or in your house.
The headband is quite comfortable as well as adjustable. It is also of stainless steel and very strong.
You can also use this pair of headphones to make calls. They come with in-built controls that make it possible to make and receive calls.
The only downside is that the headbands are not foldable. However, you can still carry them along with you since they are not very bulky.
What We Liked
- Produce a clear and loud voice
- Excellent noise isolation
- Comfortable to use
- Strong and durable headband
- Have a variety of means of controlling them
What We Didn’t Like
- At times, the high-end frequencies are quite sharp
4. Jabra Elite 85h Headphones – Best for lightweight
Jabra Elite 85h has become very common over time, mostly because of its battery life. When fully charged, its battery lasts quite long. The headphones also come with a charge option.
When not using the headphones for noise isolation, it can last for 36 hours. However, if not being used for noise isolation, it can last up to 41 hours.
The sound production is another feature you may like. Its sound is quality, with a bass strength, bright highs and an excellent mid-range.
The headphones also come with a noise isolation feature. Although not as powerful as other headphones, it is good enough to allow you to enjoy your music.
You can use Jabra Elite 85h wired or wireless. It also supports Bluetooth connection version 5.0.
These headphones are also among the lightest headphones in the market. They are therefore a great companion for travelling.
Besides, it is also very comfortable to use, even for long hours. It has a well-padded headband that is very comfortable. The earcups also have thick cushions. Moreover, they are also a comfortable fit for many ears.
The headphones also come with in-built control buttons. You can also control them using an app. You can also use them to receive or make calls.
The only downside with these headphones is that they are not foldable.
What We Liked
- Sound quality is good for all ranges
- Very comfortable with soft-padded earcups
- Light in weight
- The battery lasts for a long time
- Has in-built volume controls
- You can use it to receive and end calls
What We Didn’t Like
- Earcups are a bit cumbersome due to their size
5. YAMAHA PRO 500 – Best for Sound Clarity
Yamaha has been one of the world’s leading manufacturers of musical instruments. As such, Yamaha Pro 500 headphones are no exception to this rule.
The headphones will offer you a superb listening experience. They have the capability of precisely reproducing any type of music. Whether a lover of rock, jazz, or even Hip-Hop, these headphones will reproduce it for you.
The earcups are high grade and of rigid aluminium alloy. Consequently, they are very strong and durable.
The earcups also come in a design that works magic in ensuring you enjoy your music through noise isolation. They have quality ear cushion materials that ensure that you get a clear sound.
These headphones will offer you high efficiency, especially when you use them with portable music players.
The headphones are also so popular because they can withstand frequent use without wearing out. The headband is adjustable, reinforced and ample padding. As such, it is very comfortable to use if for long hours.
The shape of the headband is also such that it helps in noise isolation. On the other hand, the ear cushions are very soft and smooth on the ear.
If you are a lover of design, then Yamaha Pro 500 comes in a very appealing design. It has ultra-clean design curves that come in unique colours. You can get these headphones in either piano black or racing blue.
They also come with two detachable cables that are of durable materials. One is 4 ft long while the other is 10 ft long.
What We Liked
- Offer a dual input/output.
- Very durable
- They come in a very appealing design.
- Great noise isolation
- Very comfortable
- Easily foldable and portable
- Can use to receive and end calls
What We Didn’t Like
- It is a bit bulky
- At times it can be a bit tight
6. Meze 99 Classics over-ear headphones – Best Fit
Meze 99 Classics is one of the Top 10 Best closed back headphones.
One of its great features is that it works well with smartphones. Moreover, it requires no amplification.
Their headband is also ideal in that it is self-adjusting. It can comfortably spread itself to fit all head sizes.
The headphones are also light in weight. They weigh around 9.2 ounces. They are thus very easy to move around with.
The earpads also contribute to the popularity of Meze 99 Classics. They are soft-padded to create maximum comfort.
Moreover, the earpads have a density foam that helps in noise isolation. You can use this pair of headphones in a noisy studio, and you will still enjoy your music.
The package comes with other accessories as well. You will get a carrying pouch and a detachable 1.2m thread cable. You will also get a 3m cable, a gold-plated jack as well as a cable pouch.
If you long to enjoy natural sounds, then this headphone is all you need. It produces one of the best natural sounds for audiophiles.
What We Liked
- Has a self-adjusting headband
- It is light hence easy to carry around.
- Has soft-padded earpads for comfort
- Good in noise isolation
- Comes with accessories such as two detachable cables and a carrying pouch
What We Didn’t Like
- The bass is very deep and can become a disturbance
- Not very appropriate for wearing in hot weather
7. Sony WH1000XM3 Wireless Headphones – Best for Critical Listening
Sony WH1000XM3 is another best-closed headphone for use with MP3s and mobile phones. For audiophiles, it is also handy for critical listening.
Even at very high volumes, this headphone will still give you very quality sound. It also has a very long battery life of around 30 hours.
Unlike many other closed headphones, the battery is very easy to charge. It takes only around three hours to charge fully.
For those who love the deep bass voice, Sony WH1000XM3 produces just that. It is for this reason that the highs and the mids may sound a bit dull.
Like many others, it also comes with a noise control function. You can use this function to control how much noise you hear from outside.
This noise isolation feature is very crucial in ensuring you enjoy your music fully. It also allows you to use the headphones even in a very noisy environment.
Sony WH1000XM3 comes with a detachable cable. However, you can still use it wireless. Moreover, it supports Bluetooth version of 4.2.
The other key feature is that these headphones are very light in weight. You can put them on for long hours without getting any fatigue.
The earcups can swivel and are foldable. As such, you can fold it into a compact size then carry it with you on your trip.
Its microphone is also in-built. You can use the headphones to receive and end calls as well.
What We Liked
- Earcups can swivel and are foldable
- It is durable
- It is very comfortable
- Comes in an attractive design
- It is light in weight
What We Didn’t Like
- Might be bulky for active workouts
Buying Guide for the Best Closed Back Headphones Under 500
Excellent closed back headphones can transform your listening experience in a second. You cannot afford the luxury of messing in the buying process.
A wrong set of headphones will ruin your musical experience and waste your money. Selecting an ideal pair of closed back headphones in a flooded market can be very confusing. Below is a detailed guide on the factors to consider when buying closed headphones under 500.
1. Active Noise Cancellation or Noise Isolation?
Most people use noise isolation and active noise cancellation interchangeably. These two terms have the same goal, but they work differently.
Noise isolation is a scenario whereby the headphone sits on the ear, thus blocking out external noise. All closed back headphones have the noise isolation feature since they entirely cover your ear and have no penetration spaces at the back.
On the contrary, headphones with active noise cancellation do not just sit on the ear to block outside noise. They use an integrated circuit technology, crafted into the earcups. The circuit resembles tiny microphones that pick up any outside noise.
The headphones respond by producing opposite sound waves that actively cancels out all the unwanted noise.
The active noise cancellation feature is not available in all closed back headphones. You will only find it in high-end headphones. If a headphone has this feature, you will see it in the product description.
2. Budget/ Price
Before making any purchase, have a rough estimate of how much you wish to spend. There are tons of closed back headphones under the $500 price range. Therefore, you need to have a precise budget.
However, don’t set a very low budget. Just like most products, the quality of headphones increases as the price goes up. High-priced headphones have advanced features and better sound quality. Nevertheless, this does not mean that all low-priced headphones have poor quality.
Headphones are a long-term investment, and you should spend a reasonable amount to get a durable set.
3. Accessories
Most high-end headphone models come with additional accessories as compared to their low-end counterparts. Some of them include:
4. Cases
A case is essential as it helps in proper storage of the headphone cord. As such, the cord doesn’t tangle in your pocket or wrap around things in your bag.
5. Collapsible earcups
Not all closed back earphones have foldable ears. If you love carrying your headphones around, this is an excellent feature as it eases portability and storage.
6. Built-in control module/ microphone
This feature allows you to operate your mobile phone without removing it from the pocket. The mic or control module can be built into the headphone or on the wire. It enables you to answer phone calls, control the music on the background and also access Google Now or Siri.
There are a variety of control features depending on the headphone model and manufacturer. So, be sure to check the features that are of importance to you before buying.
7. Extra cables/Replaceable ear pads
In your shopping spree, make sure you compare the extra features of different headphones. The prices of these accessories are usually included in the overall product price.
Instead of buying them separately, it is recommendable to buy a headphone that is fully loaded with the necessary features. Doing so helps to save on price and guarantees quality.
8. Type of Material
The type of your headphone set material greatly influences its comfort and durability. Circumaural or around the ear headphones comprise of a wide range of materials.
The typical construction materials of such headphones are faux leather with foam, polyurethane, genuine leather and textiles like velvet, plush and velour.
Leather is excellent as it is easy to clean, but it tends to sweat a lot with prolonged use. Textile earcups are also good since they absorb sweat and remain comfortable with long hours of use. However, the sweat absorption feature makes them smell with time.
The best material to use depends on individual preferences.
9. Wired or Wireless?
Closed back headphones are either wired or wireless. Most people who love adventures prefer wireless headsets due to their convenience.
Surprisingly, most people and studios prefer to use wired headphones. Perhaps it is because they have superb sound quality. Also, they are more affordable and reliable.
FAQs
What are closed back headphones?
You identify closed back headphones by design on the back of their earcups. The back is totally sealed to block out most noise from outside (sound isolation).
What is the benefit of closed back headphones over open back headphones?
Noise isolation is the primary benefit of using closed back headphones. They come with form-fitting earcups which enclose your entire ear, thus preventing the penetration of noise from outside.
Unlike open back headphones, the closed back version traps air on the inside, making them excellent for bass build-up. It also promotes quite listening without distracting people near you.
How do I know the best closed back headphones?
There are plenty of closed back headphones in the market. To know the ideal one for you, you must first identify your specific needs. Is it for recording, mixing, gaming, music production or casual use?
Your specific need will guide you on the quality and price of the set to buy. Also, headphones with active noise cancellation are preferable over those with noise isolation only.
Conclusion
You now know the best closed back headphones under 500. All you need to do is get the one that best suits your needs.
A good closed back headphone should have noise isolation to ensure you enjoy your music to the fullness. It should also be comfortable in your ears even after putting it on for long.
In our review, the Bowers & Wilkins PX is our best choice. It will give you the quality sound. Its battery can last as long as 50 hours. Moreover, it supports Bluetooth in case you do not want to use the wire.
