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Key Points
- Our top choice for the #1 Best Overall wired headphones is the Sony ZX Series. Its wide frequency range and excellent reliability make it a great purchase.
- The wired headphones featured here have great designs, the best build quality, and excellent audio output.
- When selecting wired headphones, consider their comfort and durability. Also, check the device’s warranty, budget, brand, and cable length.
Whether you are out on a walk, jogging, or intentionally locking out noises within your surroundings, listening to good music through high-quality headphones can help. The headphones’ features and basic capabilities determine the sound quality they produce. These devices have undergone advancement as some are also using cutting-edge technology to improve user experience. So, in your search for a good headphone, ensure it has an aesthetic appeal and produces superior sound.
Finding the best-wired headphones isn’t a walk in the park. There are many options in terms of brands and designs. Buyers must choose from closed-back headphones that minimize sound leakage to open-back headphones with a remarkable soundstage.
To make it easier for you, we will explore the best-wired headphones on earth today. Let’s get into it!
- Best Overall: Sony ZX Series
- Best for Computer Recording: OneOdio Wired Over-Ear Headphone
- Best for Professionals: Audio-Technica ATH-M50X
- Best for iPhones: Apple EarPods Headphone with Lighting Connector
- Best for Noise Isolation: Sephia SP3060 Earbuds Wired in-Ear Headphone
- Best Performance for Price: Sony Wireless WH-1000XM4
#1 Best Overall: Sony ZX Series
- Lightweight 1.38 in neodymium dynamic drivers deliver a punchy, rhythmic response to even the most demanding tracks
- Driver Unit: Dome type
- The swiveling earcup design allows easy storage when you’re not using them, and enhances portability when you’re traveling
- Cushioned earpads for total comfort and enfolding closed-back design seals in sound
- The wide frequency range—spanning 12Hz to 22kHz—delivers deep bass, rich midrange, and soaring highs
- Plug: L-shaped stereo mini plug 3.5mm
The Sony ZX Series has excellent performance, reliability, and value which makes it stand out as our #1 Best Overall wired headphones.
This gadget is 5.87 x 1.81 x 7.87 inches in size and weighs 4.8 ounces, making it easy for users to carry. It is also easy to store due to its swiveling ear cup design, and the cushioned ear pads provide enhanced comfort too.
This headphone has an L-shape mini plug and a wide frequency range from 12Hz to 22kHz. Other advanced specs include a 3.55mm cable, a noise-canceling feature, a 1.38-inch driver size, and a 1.2m cable length. Moreover, this headphone is black. The Sony ZX Series offers the best flexibility due to its swivel cord and folding ear pads. Its 1.2 m Y-Type cable is highly durable and averts tangling.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Has an excellent folding design for storage | Some users have reported durability issues with some Sony ZX Series units |
| 1.2 m Y-Type cable is long-lasting | |
| Produces high-quality sound, and its response is excellent |
Best for Computer Recording: OneOdio Wired Over-Ear Headphone
- Hi-res studio monitor and mixing DJ stereo
- 50mm Neodymium drivers
- 1/4 to 3.5mm audio jack for AMP computer recording phone piano guitar laptop
The OneOdio Wired Over-Ear Headphone comes with an in-line microphone and other impressive capabilities, making it our best choice for computer recording.
This gadget is 7.09 x 5.51 x 3.94 inches in size and weighs 0.66 pounds. It’s black and has a single-sided monitoring feature. Its 90-degree swiveling ear cup has a flexible, self-adjusting headband that supports long hours of a fatigue-free listening experience.
Besides its impeccable comfort offered by the padded ear cushions, it provides quality sound from its 50mm speaker units with neodymium magnets. It produces powerful bass, crisp high tones, and clear vocals. This earpiece is highly compatible with other devices due to its detachable 6.35mm or 3.5mm audio jack. This headphone has a 50mm driver size, a 20Hz to 40kHz frequency, 32 Ohms impedance, 110dB + – 3dB sensitivity, a 1.2 m cable length, and a noise canceling feature.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Has an in-line microphone | Some units produce muddiness and distortions |
| Perfect for a DJ due to its excellent dynamic sound | |
| The foldable design makes it suitable for long working hours |
Best for Professionals: Audio-Technica ATH-M50X
- Black
- Professional-grade
- Critically acclaimed
- With detachable cable
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Professional Studio Monitor Headphone produces clear sound with exceptional bass response, making it our best choice for professionals.
This gadget is 11.4 x 10 x 4.1 inches in size and weighs 10.1 ounces. It has received praise from various Pro Audio reviewers, DJs, and audio engineers. It produces clear sound for live events, DJ, studio, and other personal uses. Its bass response is accurate and very deep.
The headphone’s circumaural design engulfs the ear to provide impeccable sound isolation and an excellent audio experience even in noisy surroundings. It is also foldable to facilitate easier portability. This professional-grade headphone has a detachable cable system and 90-degree swiveling earcups. It also comes with a 3.5mm cable, 45 mm driver size, 15Hz–28 kHz frequency, 90 dB sensitivity, 1,600 mW maximum input power, 8 ohms impedance, 90-degrees earcup swivel, 1.2 cable length, and a noise canceling feature.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Offers excellent audio performance | Some users have reported the emergence of technical issues in some units |
| The soft padded ear pads provide extra comfort for users | |
| Has an exceptional build quality that enhances its durability |
Best for iPhones: Apple EarPods Headphone with Lighting Connector
- 3.5mm plug
- Microphone with built-in remote to control music, phone calls, and volume
- Wired earbuds
The Apple EarPods Headphone with Lighting Connector is highly compatible with Apple devices, making it our best choice for iPhones.
This white earpiece is 2.7 x 2.65 x 1.1 inches in size and weighs 0.13 pounds. Unlike traditional earbuds, these EarPods are designed to perfectly fit the ear, giving more comfort even after being used for many hours.
The speakers used in this headphone produce quality sound output. This device has an in-built remote and lighting connector. Therefore, through a pinch of the cord, its users can control music and videos, adjust volume, and end or answer calls. This headphone has a lightning cable, a 16.5mm driver size, and a 1.397m cable length.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent built quality makes it highly durable | Lacks a noise-canceling feature, unlike most headphones |
| It produces top-quality sound | |
| The audio quality of its microphone is exceptional |
Best for Noise Isolation: Sephia SP3060 Earbuds Wired in-Ear Headphone
- HD bass-driven audio
- Lightweight aluminum in-ear headphone
- S/M/L earbud tips
- Earphone case
- 3.5mm tangle-free cord
- Without mic
The Sephia SP3060 Earbuds Wired in-Ear Headphones come with an impressive noise-canceling feature, making it our top pick for noise isolation.
This gadget is 3.94 x 3.94 x 3.94 inches in size and weighs 0.564 ounces. It allows users to listen to their favorite tracks in a noisy environment. This headphone will stick to your ears no matter what you’re doing, which is why so many people use it while running or lifting weights in the gym. Its black and silver color makes it more elegant and noticeable.
Besides its high-quality build, its Neodymium 10mm magnetic earbud produces high-quality sound. This product comes packaged in a protective case, making it easily portable. Other specs of this device include a 3.5 mm cable, 10 mm driver size, 20Hz to 20 kHz frequency, 120 cm cable length, 19 Ohm impedance, 96 Db sensitivity, and a noise canceling feature.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Its 0.564-ounce weight makes it highly portable | Not as durable as users would expect |
| It has an exceptional compatibility feature | |
| It produces clear, high-quality sound |
Best Performance for Price: Sony Wireless WH-1000XM4
- Best in class Active Noise Cancelling
- Features Sony's Edge-AI
- Battery life: 30 hours
- Touch controls
- Multi-point Bluetooth 5.0
The Sony Wireless WH-1000XM4 is great for its Bluetooth connectivity and other smart features.
This gadget weighs 9 ounces and is 7.27 x 3.03 x 9.94 inches in size. It has superior dual noise sensor technology and a noise cancellation feature. It has other smart features like touch sensor control and Alexa Voice control.
Apart from its ability to charge quickly, it delivers a stunning 30-hour battery life. Users can also enjoy 5 hours of playing music after charging these headphones for only 10 minutes. It also has Bluetooth connectivity, a 40mm driver size, 4Hz – 40,000Hz frequency, an in-built mic, 1.3 m cable length, and a great noise cancellation feature.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| This headphone has several device-pairing features | The touch control develops issues in some units |
| It offers excellent product quality and comfort | |
| It has a speak-to-chat feature, Bluetooth connectivity, and a touch control sensor |
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How to Choose the Best Wired Headphones: Step-by-Step
Picking suitable wired headphones is quite challenging because of the numerous options available. They also come with different features that determine the quality of sound they can produce. Since their performance differs, you must find a wired earpiece that gives you value for your money.
Here are the aspects you should consider when choosing the best-wired headphone.
- Fit and comfort
- Portability
- Durability
- Cables
- Warranty
- Budget
- Brand
Let’s explore each in more detail.
Fit and Comfort
You will stop listening to music whenever you feel discomfort while using your headphones. The comfort aspect is crucial, especially if you need to wear the earpiece for long hours. The best ones come with soft padded ear cups and an adjustable headband. If the gadget fits perfectly on your head and ears, it will provide the ultimate comfort. Go for headsets that are also light in weight. While wearing them, you shouldn’t feel as if the device is on your head.
Portability
The best headphones will allow you to enjoy your entertainment wherever you go. The portability of these devices isn’t something you should ignore as it affects user experience. The best earpieces are light in weight and smaller in size. However, some bulkier headphones have impressive fold-up designs that enhance portability and boost their safety while in transit. The best headphones come with a protective casing.
Durability
After purchasing headphones, you should expect them to last. However, the gadget’s build quality determines its level of durability. Therefore, you should check the sturdiness of these devices. The most durable ones are always heavier, so they cannot break easily when pressure is exerted on them. Besides the headphone’s outer strength, check its cables too. If they are delicate and thin, they won’t last for long. Don’t forget to check the accessibility of replacement parts.
The headphone’s shelf life will be cut short if it has a minor technical issue and the needed parts are unavailable. Remember, paying more for highly durable headphones will give you greater value.
Cables
Don’t forget to check the length of the cables of wired headphones. The cable must be ideal for all situations. However, very long cables are not suitable for headphones. They tend to affect sound quality by producing distortions and reducing the volume. They can also be tangled with ease and cause other inconveniences. The best headphones have covered cables that enhance their longevity. Since multiple connections reduce sound quality and degrade signals, avoid headphones with two shorter cables. It is better to choose one with a cable length that is adequate for your needs.
Warranty
Protect your investment by ensuring you get a warranty after purchase. Apart from production errors, these devices face numerous risks once they leave the manufacturer. A warranty will protect you whenever the device projects technical issues. You will be entitled to free repairs or a replacement as long as the warranty hasn’t expired. The best headphones always come with a lengthier warranty, and this coverage protects you from costly losses.
Budget
Various stores sell headphones at different prices. In this case, your budget will determine the best earpiece for you. Headsets with a warranty, good build quality, excellent sound output, and proven durability are expensive. Although they are usually a reliable choice, your budget will determine if you can get them. However, there are plenty of affordable headphones that can serve you very well. Go for an option that is affordable for you.
Brand
The best way to choose headphones is by considering their brand. The earpieces produced by highly renowned brands give users the best value, although they are costly. Never risk buying headsets from unknown brands. Although their prices might be cheaper, the headphone’s quality might be extremely low.
What to Know Before Buying the Best Wired Headphones
When buying wired headphones, you must get value for every money spent. Every buyer must know these things before buying wired headphones.
The Type
Before purchasing this device, learn about the available types. So far, there are three types of headphones.
- In-Ear: They are also called in-ear monitors. Users place them right inside their ears. They are highly portable and produce quality sound. If you need the perfect headphone for commuting, consider buying in-ear headphones.
- On-Ears: These headphones are also known as supra-aural. They cause slight discomfort when used for a long time. This earpiece type is poor in isolating the sound. Therefore, it doesn’t provide your much-needed privacy when listening to music or videos.
- Over-Ear: These headphones provide the ultimate comfort even after using them continually for hours. They are known as circum-aural headphones. The only downside is their size, which makes them less portable.
Drivers
The driver is a feature in the headphones comprising a diaphragm, magnet, and voice call. It is responsible for producing sound. If you are looking for a headphone that produces the best quality sound, consider the size of the drivers. Those with bigger drivers always release clear and better audio.
Sensitivity
If you love loud music, check the headphones’ sensitivity levels. The sensitivity ratings of these gadgets will determine if they are audible. Most earpieces have sensitivity levels reaching 110 dB/mW. However, don’t buy headphones with a sensitivity level lower than 85 dB/mW because their audio output is inferior.
Impedance
Impedance refers to the amount of power needed for the headphone to function. Most smartphones and tablets have sufficient impedance to power headphones. The headphones needing a lower impedance can produce better sound quality in these portable devices because they will exploit the available extra power. However, those requiring a higher impedance will need a dedicated power source to work optimally. The best impedance for headphones is 16 Ohms.
Frequency Response
The headphone’s frequency level will determine the bass it can produce. When looking at the frequency range, the upper limit is the treble, and the lower limit is the bass. Most headphones come with a 20Hz – 20,000Hz frequency response. Those who like music with more bass should opt for headphones with a broader range than the standard frequency response range.
Remember, the objective is to get value by purchasing the right headphones for you. So, take the time to check and compare the specifications of the available headphones. After the comparison, it will be easier to make the right choice.
Using the Best Wired Headphones: What It’s Like
Wired headphones offer a suitable way to enjoy movies or music in public spaces. These devices have various features that provide privacy for the users. The in-ear and over-ear headphones are excellent at isolating sounds. The advanced noise cancellation feature also enables headphone users to listen to their favorite music in the noisiest surroundings. These headsets are suitable for traveling too. They are light in weight and can be folded to fit in a small storage space, so you can easily pack them in your travel bag. These devices also produce high-quality sound. The wired headphones give the best audio experience, so buying them is an excellent investment.
