10 Best Closed-Back Headphones Under $500 in 2023
We conduct independent testing and research of products, so you can make an informed decision before making a purchase. And when you do decide to make a purchase through our links, please note that we may earn a commission, but this does not affect the honesty of our reviews.
When it comes to headphones, people are often confused as to what type of headphones to buy. In this guide, I have reviewed the top 10 best closed-back headphones under $500 that are available in the market today.
Closed-back headphones are generally more expensive than open-back headphones. They are usually made of higher-quality materials, have a better design, and offer superior sound quality.
The closed-back headphones are preferred by audiophiles because they isolate ambient sounds and prevent others from hearing your music. They are ideal for office workers, students, and professionals who work in noisy environments.
A huge selection of headphones is available in the market, and finding the best closed-back headphones under $500 is quite a challenge. Here, I have reviewed the best closed-back headphones for people who want to listen to music without the discomfort of having to wear headphones on their ears.
The headphones have been selected on the basis of their features, performance, sound quality, durability, comfort, and price. Some of them are available at affordable prices and others are more expensive. You can choose the ones that suit your budget.
Best closed-back headphones: Buying guide
The best closed-back headphones can be used for both casual and professional use, and they are ideal for people who want to enjoy their music in public. The best closed-back headphones are comfortable, durable, and easy to use. They are available in various styles and colors.
If you’re looking for a good pair of closed-back headphones, then you need to know what to look for. It’s important to consider the quality of the headphones and their features before you purchase them. If you’re unsure which headphones are right for you, then read this buying guide to find out more.
How to choose the best closed-back headphones?
When it comes to choosing the best closed-back headphones, there are a lot of factors to consider. Your budget, your lifestyle, and your music preferences are just some of the things that will help you determine which headphones are right for you.
Your budget is probably the most important factor when it comes to selecting the best closed-back headphones. While it’s easy to spend thousands of dollars on a pair of headphones, it’s also possible to get a great pair for a much lower price. If you’re on a tight budget, you’ll want to focus on finding a pair that’s well-built and offers decent sound quality.
Your lifestyle is another essential factor to consider when choosing the best closed-back headphones. If you’re looking for a pair of headphones that you can take with you to the gym or the office, you may want to consider a pair that’s comfortable to wear. Some headphones have earcups that are designed to fit over your ears, while others have cushioned pads that fit inside your ears.
If you’re looking for a pair of headphones that you can listen to music on while you’re on the go, you’ll want to focus on selecting a pair that offers good battery life. This is important because if you’re listening to music on the go, you’ll need to make sure that you have enough power to last throughout the day.
Finally, your music preferences will help you determine which closed-back headphones are right for you. There are many different types of headphones, so you’ll want to focus on finding a pair that matches your music tastes. You may also want to consider getting headphones that offer noise-canceling technology.
Wired vs Wireless Closed-back Headphones – Which one Should you Choose?
The good ol’ studio headphones are traditionally wired. Still, nowadays they produce better sound quality than the wireless ones. However, the cables are detachable and interchangeable. These are handy when you have to replace the cable if it is broken, or you need a longer wire. Longer cables ensure more freedom of movement.
The wired headphones obviously have the advantage over the wireless ones, in that the battery does not run down. So you don’t have to worry it lets you down in an awkward moment in the middle of your work.
But do not forget to mention that as technology evolve there are better and better wireless headphones out there with a great life of a battery. Also, the evolution of Bluetooth technology lets you more stable connection and better sound quality in a wider range of frequencies.
How Long Should Headphone Cables Be?
A good rule of thumb is that the longer the cable, the better. There’s more room for error. The longer the cable, the more likely that you’ll accidentally unplug your headphones when you don’t mean to.
However, if your headphone cable is too long, it can easily tangle around objects or get caught on things. This can lead to frustration when trying to use your headphones.
Most people agree that the ideal length of headphone cables is approximately 3 feet. By the way, if you need to extend your headphones cable beyond 3 feet, there are several ways to do so.
Why is Frequency Response Important?
The frequency response of a pair of headphones is an important aspect of sound quality. If you’ve ever listened to a pair of headphones and wondered if the bass was too strong or the treble was too weak, then this is what you should be looking for.
The frequency response of a pair of headphones determines how high and low in frequency they can reproduce. A high frequency response means that the headphones are able to reproduce higher frequencies (such as bass) and lower frequencies (treble).
Consider Comfort
Headphones are a great thing, but they can also be a pain in the neck. They’re bulky, and uncomfortable, and even when they fit well, they can still make your head feel like it’s going to explode.
However, there are some ways to get around these issues and make them a little more comfortable.
First, you should try to find headphones that have a flexible boom. This will allow them to move with your head as you move.
Next, look for headphones that have adjustable ear cups. This way, you can adjust the size of the cups to fit your ears perfectly.
Finally, find headphones that have soft ear pads. These are designed to help cushion your ears from any hard surfaces that may rub against them.
Why Does Impedance Matter?
So what exactly is headphone impedance? It’s the resistance of the headphones themselves. The higher the resistance, the lower the quality of the audio.
The best way to understand the importance of headphone impedance is to think about it in terms of electrical engineering. The more resistance, the less current will flow through the headphones.
When we listen to music through our headphones, the sound comes from a speaker inside the headphones. This speaker converts the sound into an electrical signal, which is then sent to the headphones. The headphones send the signal to your ears, where it is converted back into sound.
The speaker inside the headphones is made from a coil of wire. As the speaker receives the electrical signal from the headphones, the current flows through the coil. This current creates a magnetic field around the coil.
If the resistance of the headphones is low, then the current will flow easily through the coil and create a strong magnetic field. The stronger the magnetic field, the louder the sound.
If the resistance of the headphones is high, then the current will be harder to flow through the coil and will create a weaker magnetic field. The weaker the magnetic field, the lower the volume.
So, why do headphones have such a big impact on audio quality? It’s because the resistance of the headphones is connected to the coil inside the speaker. If the coil is made from a wire that is too thick, it will produce a weak magnetic field and will not work well with headphones.
Our Selection 10 Best Closed-Back Headphones Under $500
1. Sony WH-1000XM5
This Sony wireless headphone is one of the best we reviewed this year, and they’re also among the best in the industry.
We’ve got the Sony WH-1000XM5, which is a successor to the WH-1000XM3, which is considered to be the best noise-canceling headset on the market. And while the WH-1000XM5 doesn’t have the same level of noise cancellation as the 1000XMs, it does offer some advantages over them.
Like the previous model, the WH-1000XM5 has two processors that control eight microphones and work together to cancel out environmental noises. It’s the first Sony product to do so.
The integrated processor V1 also improves on the previous version by offering better sound quality. It’s a big step forward for Sony, which is usually known for its cheap, subpar audio products.
As for the sound quality, it’s incredible. The headphones can handle everything from pop to hip hop, and they won’t skip a beat. It’s a really comfortable pair of headphones, with a soft leather ear cup that fits well.
There’s a microphone on the left side and touch control on the right side. There’s also a built-in mic for calls, but you’ll need to buy a separate mic if you want to use it for Skype or Google Duo.
It’s really easy to use, too. Just open the case and take off the headphones to use them, then put them back on to go back to listening. It’s pretty simple, and that makes it great for anyone who needs a pair of noise-canceling headphones.
If you want a pair of truly exceptional wireless headphones that won’t break the bank, then the Sony WH-1000XM5 is worth checking out.
Pros:
Cons:
2. Drop + Dan Clark Audio Aeon
The Dan Clark Audio Aeon Closed X is an updated version of the popular Dan Clark Audio Aeon Planar Magnetic Headphones.
We’ve always been huge fans of Dan Clark’s headphones, and we’re excited to see him release a new version with improved sound quality and a more comfortable fit.
It doesn’t hurt that the Aeon Closed X is one of the most comfortable headphones we’ve ever tried. The earcups are soft and padded, which makes them comfortable for hours of listening. The fit is extremely snug, so it’s not too big or too small.
The earpads are slightly raised and partially fenestrated, which lets air flow through and improves airflow to the ears. It also helps to prevent the buildup of unwanted pressure that can cause discomfort and fatigue.
The Dan Clark Audio Aeon Closed X has a flat, semi-cylindrical shape that’s made for extended comfort and long-lasting use. It also provides solid isolation, but still allows for a full range of sound.
It’s available in black, white, and red. It’s worth noting that it comes with a 3-month warranty.
Pros:
Cons:
3. SENNHEISER HD 569
If you’re in the market for a good pair of headphones, then Sennheiser is your best bet. Their products are of the highest quality and most importantly, they’re well-reviewed, which means that you can trust them to deliver an excellent product.
The HD 569 is one of the best that they offer – it’s an open-back, around-ear design with soft, replaceable ear pads. They’re great for noise isolation and they have a high-end sound profile, so they’re perfect for audiophiles.
The HD 569 is a closed-back for those needing noise isolation with outstanding sound quality. Powered by Sennheiser’s proprietary transducer technology and featuring the ‘Ergonomic Acoustic Refinement’ (E.A.R) design, the HD 569 drives toward audiophile reproduction. Being closed-back, this around-ear delivers noise isolation along with a natural tonal balance.
They feature the ‘Ergonomic Acoustic Refinement’ (E.A.R) design, which channels audio directly into your ears producing a more ‘in room’ like listening experience.
They’re well-reviewed and have a great sound profile, so you can trust them to deliver an excellent product.
Pros:
Cons:
4. Focal Elegia
The Focal Elegia is a highly-refined, high-end closed-back pair of headphones from Focal.
This model is designed to provide a balanced sound that is comfortable to wear for hours on end, and the sound quality is simply amazing.
The headphones feature an exclusive full-range speaker driver with an ‘M’-shape aluminum/magnesium dome (patent pending). This design delivers great elongation, at the heart of the extremely dynamic sound, and a linear, extended frequency response of 23kHz.
The headphones also have an exceptional tonal balance, which is able to reproduce the subtlest sound details at both very high and very low frequencies.
The headphones are incredibly comfortable to wear, thanks to the memory foam earpads and the headband, which molds perfectly to the wearer’s face shape.
The closed-back design of the headphones provides outstanding sound isolation.
If you’re looking for an audiophile pair of headphones, then the Elegia is an excellent choice.
Pros:
Cons:
5. Tascam TH-02
If you’re looking for great sound for a reasonable price, these headphones from TASCAM are the ones to buy.
They’re a little on the bulky side, but that’s because they’re designed to be used for hours of music and movies, so that’s what you want. They’re incredibly comfortable, and they fold up nicely for easy storage and transport.
With a tight, padded headband and ear pads, they’re also very comfortable to wear.
The TH-02 also features a wide range of ports, which include a 1/8” (3.5 millimeter) to 1/4” (6.3 millimeters) adapter, so you can connect the headphones to most portable devices.
The TH-02 is compatible with virtually every device, including smartphones, tablets, and computers.
If you’re looking for a reliable, comfortable pair of headphones that won’t break the bank, the TH-02 is the way to go.
Pros:
Cons:
6. Meze 99 Classics
If you’re into high-end, closed-back headphones, then you’re probably familiar with the Meze 99 Classics. They’ve been featured in Head-Fi’s Top 10 Best closed-back headphones of all time, and they’re a regular fixture on Inner Fidelity’s Wall of Fame.
These headphones are a lot of things at once – they’re not only gorgeous but they’re also powerful, comfortable, and great for everyday use.
The Meze 99 Classics aren’t just for audiophiles. They work with any device and can be used as a set of closed-back headphones or as a pair of over-ear headphones.
The Meze 99 Classics have been around for a while now, and they’ve seen a lot of improvements. The ear cups are now made of wood, instead of the previous plastic ones. This makes these headphones more durable, and they also look nicer. The new design is a combination of old and new – the wood used to make the ear cups is the same as the old design, while the headband and the rest of the headphones are a new design.
They also feature a fully adjustable headband that will fit all head sizes. The headband is made from the same material as the ear cups, and it’s very soft. The headband can be removed and replaced in case it gets damaged or worn out.
The ear cups are covered in satin-finished wood, which adds to the premium look of the headphones. These headphones are not just beautiful, but they’re also comfortable, and they feel good in your ears.
The Meze 99 Classics come with a carrying case that protects the headphones during transport, and it’s attached to the headband so that you can carry them with ease. These headphones are lightweight, and they won’t add any bulk to your bag or backpack.
The Meze 99 Classics are designed for people who want to listen to music or talk on the phone without having to worry about damaging their ears. The closed-back design will prevent external noise from entering your ears, and this means that you’ll be able to enjoy your music without having to worry about disturbing anyone.
The Meze 99 Classics feature a comfortable headband that will stay put and won’t slip. The headband is adjustable, so you can make the headphones fit your head perfectly, and it has a soft feel that won’t cause discomfort.
The Meze 99 Classics are a premium pair of headphones.
Pros:
Cons:
7. SENNHEISER HD 206
One of the best headphones around, the Sennheiser HD 206 is a high-end closed-back over-ear headphone that you won’t regret spending a little extra on.
These headphones are great for use with computers, portable devices, and gaming consoles because they provide plenty of basses and great sound quality, without the usual clunkiness that you get with cheap headphones.
They have an incredibly comfortable design for extended use, and the noise-canceling mic is designed to minimize background noise when recording. They also have a 1/8 inch plug, which is perfect for connecting to a computer, portable device, or console.
The 24-ohm impedance provides compatibility with most cell phones, tablets, laptops, and consoles. You can also connect them to a separate amplifier and power them up through an amp to enhance sound quality.
The HD 206 headphones will last for a lifetime, but you might want to invest in a few extras, such as an additional pair of ear pads and a spare cord.
Pros:
Cons:
8. Audio-Technica ATH-A990Z
If you’re looking for a good pair of headphones for a reasonable price, then these are your best bet. They’re incredibly comfortable and sound great.
They offer incredible isolation, and their closed-back design allows them to be used for hours without causing any sort of discomfort or pressure on your ears.
The headphones are also incredibly easy to use, with the cord detaching from the headphone and the cups sliding off. This makes it easier to clean them too, and they come with a few different cleaning tools.
The only downside is that the headphones can get pretty warm when in use, so if you have a sensitive head or ears, you might want to consider buying a cooling cap.
The ATH-A990Z is a great pair of closed-back headphones for people who want a comfortable, isolating experience while listening to music.
These headphones come in a box with everything you need to get started. They’re designed to be easy to set up and use, and they come with a 6.3 mm (¼”) stereo adapter.
I found them to be incredibly comfortable, and they’re also very lightweight. I like the look of them too, and they look really good when placed on a shelf or on a desk.
They don’t come with any ear tips, but they have soft ear pads that are comfy and offer great isolation.
The 3.0 m (9.8′) tangle-free cable is quite long, and it’s got a cloth wrapping on the end to protect it.
I tested the ATH-A990Z with my iPhone, and it came with the standard 3.5 mm stereo plug. I wasn’t able to test the 3.0 mm adapter, but you can get it from the manufacturer.
If you want to connect them to your computer, the ATH-A990Z is compatible with all computers, including Windows and Mac. You can also connect them to your mobile device, as long as it has a 3.5 mm plug.
Overall, these headphones are perfect for anyone looking for a pair of closed-back, high-performance, and comfortable headphones that won’t break the bank.
Pros:
Cons:
9. AKG Pro Audio K553 MKII
AKG Pro Audio headphones are renowned for their superior sound quality, and the K553 MKII is no exception.
It’s very lightweight and comfortable, and the flexible design allows for great sound isolation. These headphones are also suitable for professional musicians, as the closed-back design provides excellent noise insulation.
The K553 MKII comes with a detachable cable, which is a nice touch because it adds convenience and ease of use.
The only downside is that the cable is rather long at 8 meters (26 feet). It’s also quite thick, so it’s not as flexible as most other cables, but it doesn’t affect the sound quality in any way.
Pros:
Cons:
10. OneOdio Pro 10
OneOdio is a reputable brand, so we were happy to give them a try.
OneOdio headphones are made for music and sound production, but they’re also great for music listening. It’s great for mixing, and you’ll enjoy the bass and clarity of the sound.
You can also get the studio monitor version, which is perfect for recording or mixing.
These headphones will last you a long time, and you won’t need to worry about replacing the batteries, since the ear cups are detachable.
You can also adjust the headband to suit your head size, which will ensure that the headphones stay comfortable while you work.
If you’re looking for good-quality headphones at a fair price, then the OneOdio Studio monitor headphones are for you.
Pros:
Cons:
FAQs
Are Open Back or Closed Back Headphones Better?
Open-back headphones have a small opening through which the sound waves come out. This design is great for bass-heavy music as it allows the sound waves to resonate. However, it is not suitable for people who want to hear the higher frequencies.
Closed-back headphones are perfect for people who want to listen to a wide range of sounds, such as music, movies, or podcasts. These headphones are often made up of soft material that makes them more comfortable than open-back headphones.
What’s the Difference Between Studio Headphones and Regular Headphones?
Studio headphones are designed to be used in a recording studio. They’re generally larger than regular headphones and have a more powerful sound. They’re also designed to be used with professional recording equipment, which is why they’re expensive.
Regular headphones are designed to be used with regular sound sources, such as music players, iPods, or other devices.
Active vs Passive Noise Cancelation?
Active Noise Cancelation (ANC) is a technology that uses microphones to pick up ambient noise and use it as a reference to cancel out unwanted noise.
Passive Noise Cancellation (PNC) works by using an external microphone to record the noise and then creating a soundproof enclosure for the recording.
There are pros and cons to each method.
If you are in a noisy environment, ANC will be your best friend. However, if you are in a quiet environment, PNC will do the trick.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this article provides a list of the best closed-back headphones under $500. These headphones are suitable for both casual and professional use.
There are lots of headphones on the market, but not many are designed with closed-back style headphones in mind. The best closed-back headphones can help improve your hearing and reduce noise in the environment around you.
Whether you’re trying to keep your workstation quiet, protect your ears from loud noises, or just look cool, these headphones will help you achieve your goals.
Our Mission: At AudioInspects, we are dedicated to providing the most comprehensive and authentic reviews of audio equipment on the market. We conduct independent testing and research of products, so you can make an informed decision before making a purchase. Our mission is to help you find the best audio equipment to improve your listening experience. So trust us to deliver the most reliable recommendations and advice.
Disclosure: When you do decide to make a purchase through our links, please note that we may earn a commission, but this does not affect the honesty of our reviews. You can read our affiliate disclosure in our Disclosure.
