Choosing closed-back headphones, which block out ambient noise, can be a difficult decision for some people. Open-back headphones are more portable and don’t carry the same stigma. That’s why this guide is here to help you choose the best closed-back headphones under $500 that are worth your time and money.
If you’re looking for the best closed-back headphones for gaming, this article is perfect for you. We compiled a list of the top 5 choices that will surely fit your needs.
Closed-back headphones can be one of the most expensive devices in your setup. If you’re looking for a new pair that won’t break the bank but still provide high-quality sound, here’s what we recommend.
We’ve compiled a list of the best closed-back headphones under $500 with the highest quality and value. We’ve considered all these factors to find headphones that meet not just your needs but your budget as well.
Table of Contents
5 Best Closed-Back Headphones Under $500 (Quality & Value)
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Shure SRH1540 Premium Closed-Back Over-Ear Headphones (Black)
- 40 mm neodymium drivers deliver superior acoustic performance for an expansive soundstage with clear, extended highs and warm bass
- Closed-back, circumaural design rests comfortably over the ears and reduces background noise. Ergonomic dual-frame, padded headband is lightweight and...
- Lightweight construction featuring aircraft-grade aluminum alloy yoke and carbon fiber cap for enhanced durability
- Steel driver frame with vented center pole piece improves linearity and eliminates internal resonance for consistent performance at all listening...
- Refer user manual for troubleshooting steps
Last update on 2024-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Shure SRH1540 Premium Closed-Back Over-Ear Headphones, a premium pair of headphones that offer a balanced sound and an enjoyable listening experience. These headphones deliver a superior level of performance and comfort that is making them a favorite headphone amongst professional musicians, recording engineers, DJs, studio engineers, audiophiles and more.
Pros :
- Built to block outside noise which means they’re ideal for use in noisy environments like planes
- The closed back design blocks out external noise because the ear cups fully enclose your ears.
- This leads to less sound leakage because you aren’t hearing sound that’s intended for other people.
Cons :
- They are overpriced
- The design is uninteresting
- The headband is too tight and uncomfortable after prolonged periods of use
2. Focal Closed Back Circum-Aural Hdphns
- Acoustic transparency and ease of usePrecise and detailed sound reproduction, without distortionExcellent isolation and acoustic coupling to the...
Last update on 2024-04-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Focal® is a worldwide manufacturer of headphones and sound systems. The concentric® series of headphones are considered to be their “entry-level” headphone. The Focal® Hdh2502 model is essentially an upgrade to the Hdh2205, with higher quality drivers and more durable materials.
Pros :
- Focal company is the first and best-known manufacturer of closed back circum-aural headphones in the world
- Closed back design provides high noise isolation with superior carrying comfort
- Focal’s sound quality is legendary
Cons :
- The sound is not going to be as much as a natural, but it also has a bigger soundstage
- It will take care of the pressure on your ears and reduce noise pollution.
3. Audio-Technica ATH-A99OZ Closed Back Headphones
- Frequency Response - 5 – 45,000 Hz and Impedance - 11.5 ohms
Last update on 2024-04-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Audio-Technica ATH-A99XZ Closed Back Headphones is a perfect example of the brand’s dedication to quality and innovation. The high definition audio and dynamic range make listening to these headphones a joy, with the included MixAmp® Pro providing all the sound you need for recording with your choice of microphone.
Pros :
- Best active noise-cancelling headphones
- Great soundstage, especially for movies and video games
Cons :
- Not as rugged as other headphones on the market (e.g. Bose)
- Expensive (costs around $400)
4. Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 — Over Ear, Wireless Bluetooth Headphones with Built-In Microphone for Clear Calls & Alexa Voice Control, Black
- POWERFUL NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES: 11 levels of active noise cancelling let you enjoy music, podcasts, videos & calls without distractions
- ASTONISHING SOUND: Crisp, clear details. Deep, full bass. These wireless headphones produce exciting, lifelike sound that’s full and balanced at...
- UNRIVALED VOICE PICKUP: A revolutionary microphone system adapts to noisy and windy environments so your voice always sounds crystal clear on calls
- KEEP YOUR HEAD UP AND HANDS FREE: With easy access to voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant for music, navigation, weather, and more, and...
- PREMIUM DESIGN AND COMFORT: With a lightweight stainless steel headband and earcups tilted for the perfect fit, you can comfortably wear these...
Last update on 2024-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are the pinnacle of audio performance, designed to deliver clear highs, deep bass, and powerful noise cancelling. Put them on and immerse yourself in exactly the right sound
Pros :
- Lightweight, comfortable design
- Enhanced noise reduction for immersive audio
- Built-in Alexa voice control
- HiFi sound quality to help you focus on your music
Cons :
- The noise cancellation is only “up to 30 dB”
- There’s no option for in-line volume control
- The display panel doesn’t show song, artist, or album information
5. Sony WH1000XM3 Noise Cancelling Headphones, Wireless Bluetooth Over the Ear Headset – Black (2018 Version)
- DIGITAL NOISE CANCELING: Industry leading ANC lends a personalized, virtually soundproof experience
- PHONE CALL: A built-in mic enables you to take hands-free calls.
- VOICE ASSISTANT: Alexa enabled for voice access to music, information and more. Activate with a simple touch
- QUICK ATTENTION MODE: Cover the right ear cup to turn down your music for instant, easy conversation
- PERSONAL NOISE CANCELLING: Adjusts ambient sound to your activity for the best noise cancellation
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The current generation of wireless noise cancelling headphones have been a powerful tool for eliminating distractions and focusing on the task at hand. However, they were not designed to be used with an entry-level smartphone. If you use a phone that is not compatible with Bluetooth, then you will need to choose from low cost alternatives that can offer poor quality sound and mediocre performance.
Pros :
- Excellent sound quality for an over ear headphone
- Noise cancelling works well
- Comfortable to wear
Cons :
- Not the cheapest pair of headphones out there. These are more luxury than budget. You may need to save up for them before purchase.
- A few people reported the Bluetooth connection drops out with some devices.
- A few people reported the noise cancelling is not as good as Bose QC 35 II headphones .
Conclusion :
At the end of the day, you’re going to have to pick one. So let’s help you do it with our findings, recommendations and buyer’s guide from around the web.
All headphones on this list are closed-back headphones which means that they come with earcups that cover your ears.
If you want a more open headphone for tentative listening on an airplane or on a noisy commute, check out our open-backed recommendations at the bottom of this post.
FAQ:
Q: What are the best closed-back headphones under $500?
A: The Focal Elegia is another closed-back headphone that was originally released at $899 and was a great headphone at that price. Recently discontinued, the Elegia can now be found for under $500 and is fantastic value.
Q: Which Sennheiser headphones are best for You?
A: While the two Sennheiser headphones above are both excellent headphones, they are also open-back headphones that provide no isolation. When you’re listening in a noisy environment closed-back headphones are a must and the Meze 99 Classics are a fantastic choice.
Q: What are the best dynamic driver headphones?
A: Kicking off the list of dynamic driver headphones is the Sennheiser HD 560s. The Sennheiser HD560S uses a brand new 120 ohm dynamic driver aimed at improving bass response.
Q: Is the Sennheiser drop HD 6xx the best price-to-performance headphone?
A: Sennheiser’s HD 600 series is legendary for a reason and one of the HD 600, HD 650 or HD 660s is a staple in any headphone enthusiast’s collection. However, if we were looking to pick the best price-to-performance the Sennheiser / Drop HD 6XX would have to take the cake.