11 Best Headphones for Meditation (Ranked & Reviewed)
As someone who practices meditation, I can’t stress enough the importance of having the right tools to help enhance this experience. One essential item that often gets overlooked is a pair of high-quality headphones. The best headphones for meditation are those that fit comfortably and effectively block out external noises.
Noise-canceling technology is a game-changer when it comes to meditation. It allows you to completely immerse yourself in your practice, without being disturbed by the sounds around you. Trust me, the difference it makes is remarkable. So, let’s dive right in and explore the top headphones that will make your meditation sessions much more profound and effective.
The Best Headphones for Meditation
Comparison Table of Meditation Headphones
| Headphone | Noise Cancellation | Comfort | Secure Fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bose QuietComfort Earbuds | Excellent | Designed for extended wear | Different ear tip sizes |
| Sony WH-1000XM4 | Industry-leading | Plush ear cups for prolonged use | Over-ear design |
| Bose QuietComfort 35 II | Excellent | Lightweight and comfy for long periods | Adjustable headband |
| Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX | Superior | Luxurious materials for extended wear | Adjustable and ergonomic design |
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds
Best Overall Headphones for Meditation
As a seasoned meditation practitioner, I’ve found the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds to be a valuable addition to my daily sessions. The first thing that stands out is their world-class noise cancellation. This feature is crucial for meditation, as it allows me to immerse myself fully in the experience without being disturbed by the hustle and bustle of the outside world.
The controllable noise cancellation is a thoughtful touch, allowing me to adjust how much ambient noise I want to let in, which is particularly useful during mindfulness practices where some awareness of the environment is beneficial.
The high-fidelity audio is another highlight. Whether I’m tuning into a guided meditation, listening to calming music, or simply enjoying the sounds of nature, the audio quality is crisp, clear, and wonderfully balanced at all volume levels, thanks to the Volume-optimized Active EQ. This feature enhances the meditation experience, making it easy to focus and relax.
Comfort is non-negotiable when it comes to meditation headphones, and the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds deliver on this front. The StayHear Max ear tips are soft, providing a snug fit without any discomfort, even during extended meditation sessions. It’s essential to choose the right ear tip size for the best experience, as the proper fit ensures optimal sound quality and comfort.
The simple touch controls are intuitive and easy to use, allowing me to adjust settings without breaking my concentration. The long battery life is also a significant advantage, as it means I don’t have to worry about the earbuds dying in the middle of a meditation session. The fact that they are weather and sweat-resistant is a bonus, allowing for worry-free use during outdoor meditation or more active forms of mindful movement practices.
Pros:
- Superior noise cancellation for focused meditation
- High-fidelity audio enhances the meditation experience
- Comfortable and secure fit with three sizes of ear tips
- Intuitive touch controls for easy adjustments during use
- Long battery life suitable for extended meditation sessions
- Weather and sweat-resistant for versatile use
Cons:
- Proper fit is crucial for optimal sound quality, requiring some trial and error with the different ear tip sizes
- The price point may be on the higher side for some users
Sony WH-1000XM4
Embarking on a meditation session with the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds has been nothing short of a revelation for me. The industry-leading noise canceling with Dual Noise Sensor technology is the first feature that caught my attention. This technology is not just a game-changer but a meditation-changer. It effectively drowns out the ambient noise, providing me with the serene and tranquil environment fundamental for a deep and focused meditation session.
The frequency response range from 4Hz to 40,000Hz is expansive, ensuring that the audio quality is pristine and crystal clear, whether I am listening to a guided meditation, ambient sounds, or binaural beats. The Edge-AI technology, co-developed with Sony Music Studios Tokyo, enhances the music playback, making the audio sound natural and lifelike, which is essential for creating an immersive meditation experience.
Battery life is often a concern with wireless earbuds, but not with these. With up to 30 hours of battery life and quick charging capabilities, I never found myself tethered to a charging cable. A brisk 10-minute charge provides a whopping 5 hours of playback, which is more than sufficient for even the longest of my meditation sessions.
The touch sensor controls are intuitive and responsive, allowing me to control playback, adjust volume, and even activate voice assistant without breaking my meditation posture. The speak-to-chat technology is ingenious, automatically reducing the volume when I speak and resuming when I am silent, making it perfect for meditation sessions that involve verbal affirmations or chants.
The wearing detection feature is another thoughtful addition. It automatically pauses playback when the earbuds are removed, ensuring I don’t miss out on any part of my guided meditation sessions. The seamless multiple-device pairing and adaptive sound control further contribute to a hassle-free and personalized listening experience.
Pros:
- Exceptional noise cancellation for a distraction-free meditation experience
- Wide frequency response ensuring crystal clear audio
- Long battery life with a quick charging feature
- Intuitive touch controls for hassle-free operation
- Speak-to-chat and wearing detection technologies for smart usage
- Seamless device pairing and adaptive sound control for a personalized experience
Cons:
- The touch controls might take some time to get used to for some users
- The price might be a consideration for some, but it is a worthy investment for serious meditation practitioners
Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Embarking on my meditation journey with the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds has been a delightful experience. The first thing that strikes you is the three levels of world-class noise cancellation. This feature is pivotal for meditation, providing a sanctuary of calm and tranquility, irrespective of the surrounding environment. Whether I am meditating in a noisy living room or a bustling park, the noise cancellation feature allows me to retreat into my peaceful inner space effortlessly.
The Alexa-enabled feature is a subtle but powerful addition. It allows me to access music, information, and more using voice commands, which is incredibly convenient during meditation. I can easily switch between different guided meditation tracks, adjust the volume, or set a timer without having to touch my device, allowing for an uninterrupted and focused meditation session.
The noise-rejecting dual-microphone system ensures clear sound and voice pick-up. This feature is particularly useful during guided meditation sessions or virtual meditation classes, where clarity of sound is crucial for a fulfilling experience. The balanced audio performance at any volume further enhances the meditation experience, providing crisp and clear audio without any distortion, even at low volumes.
Pairing the earbuds with my device was a breeze, thanks to the hassle-free Bluetooth pairing. The Bose Connect app not only facilitated easy pairing but also allowed me to personalize settings and access future updates. The app is user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy even for someone who is not tech-savvy.
The Bose AR, an innovative audio-only version of augmented reality, provides an immersive experience that is truly unique. It adds a new dimension to meditation, allowing me to engage with my surroundings in a way that is enriching and enlightening.
Pros:
- Three levels of world-class noise cancellation provide a serene meditation environment.
- Alexa-enabled for easy voice access to music and information.
- Noise-rejecting dual-microphone system ensures clear sound and voice pick-up.
- Balanced audio performance provides crystal clear sound at any volume.
- Hassle-free Bluetooth pairing and personalized settings through the Bose Connect app.
- Bose AR provides a unique and immersive meditation experience.
Cons:
- The price point may be a bit steep for some, but it offers value for money given the features and brand reputation.
- Requires the user to keep the firmware up to date for optimal performance.
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX
Upon first wear, the Beoplay HX headphones immediately stand out as a premium choice for meditation. Their design, which is evidently crafted with extended wear in mind, provides an unparalleled comfort that is essential for those longer, deep meditation sessions. The lightweight build minimizes any sense of weariness, allowing me to focus solely on my meditation practice without distraction.
The active noise cancellation (ANC) technology embedded in the Beoplay HX is nothing short of powerful. It effectively creates a bubble of serenity, compensating for any intrusive background noise that might otherwise disrupt the delicate balance of focus and relaxation during meditation. This feature allows for a full immersion into the sound, be it a guided meditation voice, ambient sounds, or binaural beats, enhancing the overall meditation experience.
Battery life is often a silent concern when it comes to electronic devices used in meditation, and the Beoplay HX addresses this elegantly with up to 30 hours of playtime on a single charge. This long-lasting battery life ensures that my meditation sessions are never abruptly interrupted due to a lack of power, providing peace of mind.
The aesthetic of the Beoplay HX is minimalist and elegant, aligning well with the ethos of many meditation practitioners. Its timeless elegance not only complements a strong personal style but subtly enhances the meditation environment with its unobtrusive presence.
Sound quality is crucial, and the Beoplay HX delivers inspiring audio with a well-balanced bass and treble performance. The clear midrange allows for an authentic replication of sounds and voices, ensuring that the audio is experienced as the artist or creator intended.
The customizable sound EQ is a delightful addition, allowing for a personalized audio experience that can be tailored to different meditation practices. The Beosonic Tuning available in the Bang & Olufsen app provides an intuitive interface for this customization, making it accessible and straightforward to use.
Pros:
- Extremely comfortable for extended wear, essential for long meditation sessions.
- Powerful hybrid ANC for immersive sound experience.
- Long-lasting battery life ensures uninterrupted meditation.
- Elegant, minimalist design that complements personal style and meditation space.
- Inspiring audio with balanced performance across different sound levels.
- Customizable sound EQ for a personalized meditation experience.
Cons:
- Premium price point, though justified by the range of features and quality offered.
- Requires use of the Bang & Olufsen app for sound customization, which might be a learning curve for some users.
Jabra Elite 85h
From the moment I nestled the Jabra Elite 85H headphones over my ears, it was evident that these were crafted with meticulous attention to both sound quality and user experience, making them an excellent companion for meditation sessions.
The active noise cancellation (ANC) is a standout feature. It intuitively responds to the surrounding environment, effectively blocking out unwanted background noise. This smart technology creates a cocoon of tranquility, allowing me to dive deep into meditation without being disturbed by the external world’s hustle and bustle.
SmartSound Audio technology is another feather in the cap of the Jabra Elite 85H. It not only analyzes the sound environment but also automatically applies personalized audio settings. This feature ensures that I receive the optimal sound for my meditation sessions, providing a seamless and enriching experience every time.
Battery life is a silent warrior in these headphones. With up to 36 hours of playtime on a single charge (with ANC activated), these headphones are steadfast companions from dawn to dusk. The fast-charging feature is the cherry on top, providing 5 hours of battery life with just a 15-minute charge. This means even if I forget to charge them, a quick top-up ensures they are ready for a meditation session anytime.
The call quality, while not directly related to meditation, is worth mentioning. The technology incorporated into these headphones ensures crystal clear sound, enhancing the experience if you are listening to guided meditations or participating in virtual meditation classes.
Lastly, the water-resistant feature means that whether I am meditating by a serene lake or in the comfort of my living room, the headphones are always up for the task, undeterred by the elements.
Pros:
- Smart ANC that intuitively blocks out background noise, creating a serene environment for meditation.
- SmartSound Audio technology provides personalized sound settings for an optimal meditation experience.
- Impressive battery life with a quick charging feature.
- Crystal clear call quality enhances the experience of guided meditations.
- Water and rain-resistant technology make them versatile for meditation in various settings.
Cons:
- The price might be on the higher side for some, but given the features, it’s a worthwhile investment.
- The headphones might feel bulky for some users, especially during longer meditation sessions.
1MORE SonoFlow Wireless Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
1MORE’s SonoFlow headphones are the best noise-canceling headphones for meditation. These headphones block outside noises and keep your binaural beats private.
They’re great for use in public but also in the office. They have a comfortable fit, and they’re extremely lightweight.
The SonoFlow headphones have a 40mm driver and a soft PET (polyester) film, and they produce a wide frequency response range, reaching up to 40kHz. This means that the headphones will accurately reproduce the bass and treble sounds of your favorite music.
The headphones also have a lossless LDAC (Lossless Digital to Analog Converter) technology, which will allow you to enjoy a high-resolution audio experience.
The headphones have a 4-time GRAMMY® Award winner, Luca Bignardi, to adjust the frequencies to produce an authentic, balanced sound. He also fine-tuned the headphones for use with music genres like classical, jazz, pop, rock, and hip-hop.
And for those who don’t want to worry about the outside world, 1MORE also includes an ANC (active noise-canceling) technology. This allows you to keep aware of your surroundings.
If you want to listen to your music without having to worry about outside noise, then the SonoFlow headphones are for you. Read our full review here.
Pros
Cons
Soundcore by Anker Life Q30
Upon donning the Life Q30 headphones, I was instantly enveloped in a soundscape where my meditation music flowed seamlessly, with the external world’s chaos fading away, thanks to the advanced hybrid active noise cancellation technology. These headphones are adept at creating a sanctuary of calm, picking up and neutralizing up to 95% of low-frequency ambient sound, providing an undisturbed meditation experience.
The Life Q30 offers a tailored noise cancellation experience with its three distinct modes: Transport, Outdoor, and Indoor. Each mode is designed to minimize specific types of ambient noise, whether it’s the hum of an airplane engine, the bustling traffic, or the murmur of a busy office. This feature allowed me to meditate in various settings, each time with the assurance of a tranquil auditory environment.
The sound quality is exquisite, with the 40mm drivers ensuring that every detail of my meditation tracks is audible and clear. The silk diaphragms are highly flexible, reproducing deep bass and crisp treble that extends up to 40kHz, providing a rich and immersive meditation session every time.
Battery life is a significant boon with the Life Q30. With up to 40 hours of playtime in noise cancellation mode and an extended 60 hours in standard mode, these headphones were reliable companions through multiple meditation sessions without the need for frequent charging. The quick charge feature is handy, providing 4 hours of playtime with just a 5-minute charge.
Comfort is non-negotiable when it comes to meditation, and the Life Q30 doesn’t disappoint. The ultra-soft protein leather earcups, combined with memory foam padding, provided a snug and comfortable fit, making them ideal for extended meditation sessions.
Pros:
- Advanced hybrid active noise cancellation for a focused meditation experience.
- Three customizable noise cancellation modes for various environments.
- Superior sound quality with detailed audio reproduction.
- Impressive battery life with a quick charge feature.
- Comfortable and snug fit for long listening sessions.
Cons:
- ANC is not available when using an AUX cable.
- The headphones might be slightly bulky for some users.
Anker Soundcore Life Q20
Upon first use, the Life Q20 headphones immediately stood out as a fantastic tool for meditation, providing an immersive experience that allowed me to effortlessly sink into a state of deep relaxation and focus.
The Hi-Res Audio delivered by the custom oversized 40 mm dynamic drivers is nothing short of impressive. The Life Q20 headphones reproduce music with extended high frequencies up to 40 kHz, providing extraordinary clarity and detail. Every note and tone of my meditation tracks were crystal clear, creating a soothing environment that enhanced my meditation practice.
One of the standout features of the Life Q20 is its ability to reduce ambient noises by up to 90%. The meticulous fine-tuning of the headphones’ 4 built-in ANC microphones and digital active noise cancellation algorithm has paid off, providing a significant reduction in low and mid-frequency noises such as cars and airplane engines. This feature allowed me to meditate in various settings without being disturbed by the surrounding noise.
For those who enjoy bass-heavy meditation music, the Life Q20’s exclusive BassUp technology is a game-changer. It conducts real-time analysis of low frequencies to instantly strengthen the bass output, providing an amplified listening experience that is especially enjoyable when listening to genres like EDM and hip-hop.
Battery life is another area where the Life Q20 shines. With up to 40 hours of non-stop playtime in wireless active noise cancellation mode (at 60% volume), and an extended 60 hours in standard music mode, these headphones are reliable companions for long meditation sessions. The quick charge feature is also incredibly convenient, providing 4 hours of listening with just a 5-minute charge.
Pros:
- Hi-Res Audio for crystal clear sound.
- Effective noise cancellation for an immersive experience.
- BassUp technology for enhanced bass in meditation music.
- Long battery life with quick charge feature.
Cons:
- The headphones may be a bit bulky for some users, potentially causing discomfort during extended use.
- The BassUp feature might not be necessary for all users, especially those who prefer meditation music without a strong bass component.
cleer ENDURO ANC
Cleer Enduro ANC headphones are the perfect option for those who want to add some comfort and peace of mind to their meditation routine. With noise cancellation technology that blocks out 25dB of sound, these wireless headphones provide excellent audio clarity so you can enjoy your favorite meditation practice without interruption.
The Ambient Awareness mode also allows you to let outside audio in should you need it during your session. While Enduro ANC has an impressive 50-hour battery life, they are still designed with comfort in mind — utilizing soft ear pads and a lightweight design.
The cleer+ app makes personalizing Enduro ANC even easier by allowing users to customize settings for their ideal experience.
Finally, thanks to Cleer’s two-mic system and Qualcomm cVc 8th gen noise suppression, phone calls will be crystal clear whenever you choose Enduro ANC as well! Read our full review here.
Pros
Cons
MAXROCK Sleep Earplugs
From the moment I nestled these lightweight and comfortable earbuds into my ears, it was evident that they were designed with the user’s ultimate comfort in mind. The super light, soft design is so subtle that it’s easy to forget you’re wearing them, even after hours of use. This makes them an ideal companion for meditation sessions where distraction-free comfort is paramount.
The earbuds boast an ergonomic double-layer design that caters to various ear sizes, ensuring a snug fit for everyone. The two sizes of ear tips provided fit entirely in the ear for most ear canals, and the soft, flexible silicone housing ensures they stay in place without falling out, providing a worry-free meditation experience.
Noise isolation is a crucial feature of meditation headphones, and these earbuds deliver impressively in this regard. The in-ear design effectively drowns out background noise, creating a tranquil environment for meditation. Whether you’re trying to block out snoring, TV sounds, office noise, or any other disturbances, these earbuds help you maintain your focus and deepen your meditation practice.
The patented 5mm speaker provides clear and crisp audio, enhancing your meditation session with soothing sounds. While the bass might be slightly lacking due to the silicone housing and small speaker size, the overall audio performance is satisfactory, with clear trebles and mids without distortion.
Additionally, the built-in microphone is a handy feature for those who might need to take calls, and the control is easy to adjust songs during meditation sessions. The durable zipper carry case is a thoughtful addition, providing a secure and convenient way to store and transport the earbuds.
Pros:
- Extremely comfortable and lightweight for long-wearing sessions.
- Ergonomic design with two sizes of ear tips to fit most ears securely.
- Effective noise-isolating design to create a peaceful meditation environment.
- Clear and crisp audio with satisfactory performance for meditation sounds.
Cons:
- Bass output is somewhat limited, which might be a concern for users who prefer meditation music with deep bass.
- The in-line microphone, while convenient, may not be necessary for users who primarily use the earbuds for meditation.
Ezona Sleep Headphones
Upon first trying the Ezona Sleep Headphones Eye Mask, it was immediately apparent that this product is a game-changer for individuals seeking a serene meditation experience. The eye mask is not only designed with ergonomics in mind but also provides a wider and deeper space around the eyes than typical flat masks, allowing for comfortable blinking and effective light blocking.
The memory foam material is a delightful touch, offering supreme comfort that makes the mask feel like a gentle hug around your eyes. This feature is particularly beneficial during meditation sessions where comfort is key to maintaining focus and relaxation.
One of the standout features is the stable connectivity and smooth transmission that the headphones offer. With a wireless range of 45 feet, the headphones provide ample freedom of movement during meditation sessions. The quick charge time of approximately 2 hours, coupled with over 10 hours of playtime, means you can immerse yourself in your meditation without worrying about battery life.
The built-in microphone and volume control buttons are convenient, allowing for hands-free calls and easy navigation through your meditation playlist. However, if you prefer a music-free meditation session, the mask is versatile enough to be used without the speaker and controller module, serving as a regular sleep mask.
Adjustability is another strong point of the Ezona mask. The sliding strap can be adjusted to fit head sizes between 20 to 28 inches, making it suitable for all users. The adjustable anti-slip back gel is a thoughtful addition, ensuring the mask stays in place during use.
Pros:
- Ergonomically designed with a comfortable memory foam material.
- Stable connectivity with a long wireless range for freedom of movement.
- Quick charging time with over 10 hours of playtime.
- Versatile use as both a sleep mask and headphones.
- Adjustable strap and anti-slip back gel for a secure fit.
Cons:
- The fast-charging adapter cannot be used, which might be inconvenient for some users.
- The wireless function disconnects during charging, so it can’t be used while charging.
FAQs
Conclusion
Meditation is all about being present in the moment. When you’re meditating, your mind and body are still. It’s an opportunity to disconnect from the world around you and tune into yourself.
The benefits of meditation are vast, but you don’t need to spend a fortune on headphones to do it. A few cheap ones will do.
In my experience, the best meditation headphones are the noise-canceling variety. They’re comfortable and they block out external noises. They also have excellent sound quality.
And lastly, they’re durable. This is important because your headphones will get a lot of use over time. If you want to invest in a pair of meditation headphones, I recommend going for a pair with adjustable ear cups.
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.
