2023 Best Headphones in India – The Ultimate List Ranked & Reviewed
Last Updated December 15, 2024
Suggested Headphones for You
Welcome to Your Guide To Purchasing The Best Headphones in India! This guide will help you choose the perfect headphones for your needs. We’ll explore different categories, features, and considerations to ensure you make an informed decision. Let’s get started!
Top 10 Best Headphones List in December 2024 (Quick List)
Sony WH-CH520, Wireless On-Ear Headphones with Mic
Upto 50 Hours Playtime
DSEE Upscale
Multipoint Connectivity/Dual Pairing
Voice Assistant App Support
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)
Dual beamforming microphones
Adaptive Transparency
Personalised Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
Bluetooth 5.3
boAt Rockerz 550 Bluetooth Wireless Over Ear Headphones
50mm dynamic drivers with Charging Time 2.5 hours
Ear Cushions
Physical Noise Isolation
Connectivity Bluetooth V5.0 / Dual Modes
JBL Tune 230NC TWS
Massive 40 Hrs Playtime with Speed Charge
Adjustable EQ APP
4Mics for Perfect Calls
Google Fast Pair
Apple AirPods Max
Active Noise Cancellation blocks outside noise
Transparency mode for hearing and interacting with the world around you
Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking provides theater-like sound
Apple H1 chip and software for breakthrough listening experiences
On-head detection, and seamless switching between devices
Sony WF-C500 Truly Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds
Up to 10hr battery life, total up to 20hr with charging case
Splash-proof and sweat-proof with an IPX4 rating
Built-In Mic – Easier, clearer hands-free calling
Sony WH-XB910N Extra BASS Noise Cancellation Headphones
Alexa Voice Control
Google Fast Pair
AUX & Swift Pair
30Hrs Battery Life
Bose Noise Cancelling 700 Bluetooth Wireless Over Ear Headphones
Alexa Enabled and Touch Control
Up to 20 hours Battery Life
USB-C connection
HyperX Cloud Stinger Core Wireless On Ear Headphones with Mic
DTS Headphone:X Spatial Audio: DTS Spatial Audio
Lightweight comfort for gaming
Immersive in-game audio
Marshall Major IV Wireless On Ear Headphone with Mic
Improved ergonomic design
New ear cushions + 3D hinges + straight fit headband + loop wire with reinforced rubber dampers.
Charged wirelessly
Your Guide To Purchasing The Best Headphones
Headphones have quickly become one of those necessary items that everyone has, usually with a set for every purpose: one for your everyday needs, another pair for work, one for gaming, and of course, a separate set for the gym. Before you know it, you have three or four different types, each with its special purpose. I mean, it makes sense. Each type of headphone on the market is designed to achieve one goal or another. This guide is meant to give you a little kickstart as you begin to plan your next headphone purchase, no matter what you plan to use them for.
What’s Their Purpose?
Is the cord on your wired in-ear headphones always in the way at work? Are you looking for an upgrade from your basic gaming headset or are you fed up with your gym headphones always slipping off? Whatever your reasoning is for a new pair of headphones, I’m sure there’s a purpose for them to fulfill. We have listed some different headphone categories below to help you start thinking about what your new pair will be used for:
- Everyday listening
- Sports and fitness
- Home entertainment
- Gaming
- Traveling
- Audiophiles
Take Your Pick
Despite your end-use for the headphones, you will likely have certain preferences when it comes to their features. There is so much variety on the market nowadays that the options are pretty much endless. Do you want wired or wireless headphones? How about over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, or open-air headphones? Will your new pair need to be water-resistant, noise-canceling, or offer a microphone or other controls? Hopefully, after we review the different types and features, you’ll have a better idea of your headphone needs.
Wired or Wireless, THAT is the Question!
Usually, this is one of the first features you will have to decide on when choosing a pair of headphones. Although many people lean towards wireless models for obvious reasons—who wants to fight with cord knots—wired headphones still offer some great advantages.
Wired headphones will never need to be charged or have their batteries replaced. The lack of batteries is actually what makes wired headphones quite popular in the gaming market. Wired designs are available in different fittings such as over-ear, on-ear, in-ear buds, and open-air. Wired headphone designs are usually more affordable as well.
Wireless headphones utilize Bluetooth technology to digitally connect to a wide variety of devices. With most smartphones, laptops, and music players supporting Bluetooth connectivity, wireless headphones are convenient to use for any purpose. Not only are they great for sports and fitness, with no wire in the way, but they also come in every fitting style. The one downside is that wireless headphones require charging or batteries to operate, so battery life may be an important feature for you.
How Do They Fit?
We all remember the giant headphones of the 1980s that didn’t just cover the ear; they covered half your face. Well, technology has come quite a long way since then, and now you can choose from a vast assortment of fitting options. We have outlined them below with some of their benefits so you can consider the best fittings for your headphones and their purposes.
Types of Headphones:
- Open-back Headphones: These headphones allow some air to enter, creating a more spacious and natural sound experience. Open-back headphones are popular among professionals working in studios, as they provide accurate audio reproduction and are ideal for mixing and mastering purposes.
- Closed-back Headphones: Designed to minimize ambient noise, closed-back headphones offer excellent sound isolation and allow users to perceive even the most subtle details of the audio. Musicians often prefer closed-back headphones in studio settings due to their ability to provide an immersive sound experience.
- Over-ear Headphones: Over-ear headphones, also known as circumaural headphones, completely cover the ears and provide excellent noise reduction. They offer a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions and ensure minimal interference between the listener and the music. However, they can be bulkier and may cause fatigue if worn for extended periods.
- On-ear Headphones: On-ear headphones rest directly on the ears, offering a lightweight and portable option. While they provide a great listening experience, they allow some ambient sound to enter and exit the headphone, which may not provide complete noise isolation.
- In-ear Headphones: In-ear headphones, commonly known as earbuds, are highly portable and convenient. They fit snugly inside the ear canal and provide sound isolation, accurate audio reproduction, and comfort. In-ear headphones are suitable for on-the-go listening, whether during commutes or workouts.
- Earbuds: Earbuds are compact and compatible with various ear sizes. They offer comfort and convenience while allowing sound leakage, which can help alleviate concerns about being completely isolated from the surrounding environment.
- Bluetooth Headphones: Bluetooth headphones provide wireless connectivity, eliminating the hassle of tangled wires. They are particularly popular for smartphone users who want to enjoy music without the limitations of cables. However, it’s important to note that wireless headphones may compromise sound quality compared to their wired counterparts.
- Noise-canceling Headphones: These headphones employ advanced technology to actively reduce external noise. They are available in various types, such as over-ear and in-ear models, and are sought after by travelers and gamers who desire an immersive audio experience.
Special Features
Depending on how you plan to use your next pair of headphones, you might be in search of some extra features. Most models and fits feature a variety of different features, but some of the most sought-after include noise-canceling abilities, water resistance, and a built-in microphone.
Noise-canceling abilities come in different fits, but most often, they’re found in over-ear and in-ear models. Utilizing a built-in microphone, noise-canceling technology actively reduces outside sounds by measuring the frequencies of your surroundings and creating an equal and opposite frequency, canceling out that sound. This tech allows you to isolate your content, making it a popular choice among both travelers and gamers.
Water-resistant headphones are designed with material that helps keep sweat and water from absorbing into your device speakers and ear covers. Water resistance is certified by using an IP rating, which refers to the product’s liquid protection. Ranging from 0 to 9, headphones that are IP9 have the best level of defense against water and are considered waterproof. There is a whole range of in-ear models that can be fully submerged within a specified depth of water, marketed for sports and swimming.
Built-in microphones are very popular with on-ear and over-ear gaming headphones as they allow gamers to interact online. Built-in microphones are often accompanied by other features such as volume controls and mute ability, often found on the outside of an earpiece. It’s important to pay attention to the operating system when purchasing headphones with built-in microphones, as they can be made for specific consoles. Built-in mics are also quite popular with wired in-ear headphones, allowing you to seamlessly transition from music to taking an incoming call.
Key Considerations for Choosing Headphones:
- Usage: Determine the primary purpose of your headphones. Are you a professional seeking accurate audio reproduction in a studio environment? Do you want headphones for commuting or working out? Identifying the usage will help narrow down the options and select headphones that cater to your specific needs.
- Music Genre Compatibility: Consider the music genres you frequently listen to. Different headphones have varying sound signatures, and some may be better suited for specific genres. Ensure the headphones you choose are capable of reproducing the nuances and characteristics of your preferred music genres.
- Design Selection: Evaluate the design options available and select the one that aligns with your preferences. In-ear, on-ear, and over-ear headphones each offer unique benefits. In-ear headphones provide portability, on-ear headphones are lightweight and versatile, while over-ear headphones offer superior sound quality and noise isolation.
- Wired or Wireless: Decide whether you prefer wired or wireless headphones. Wired headphones generally offer better sound quality but may limit mobility. Wireless headphones provide convenience and freedom of movement but may sacrifice some audio fidelity and require battery charging.
- Budget: Set a budget for your headphone purchase. Keep in mind that high price doesn’t always guarantee the best quality. Consider the purpose, sound quality, and comfort provided by the headphones within your budget range. Look for headphones that strike a balance between affordability and performance.
Headphone Accessories:
- Amplifiers: Headphone amplifiers can enhance the sound quality of your headphones, offering clear and detailed audio. They are particularly beneficial for audiophiles and those seeking an immersive listening experience. To use a headphone amplifier, connect it to your device using the appropriate cables and enjoy enhanced sound quality.
- DACs (Digital to Analog Converters): DACs are essential for converting digital music files into analog signals, ensuring accurate and high-fidelity audio reproduction. They can improve the clarity, dynamics, and overall quality of your listening experience. Pairing a DAC with a headphone amplifier can further enhance the audio output.
- Cables & Stands: Some headphones come with cases for protection against dirt and damage. Consider investing in a headphone stand to display and organize your headphones. Additionally, brands often offer replacement ear cups or headphone cables to keep your headphones in optimal condition.
Make Your Choice
Ultimately, investing in a good pair of headphones can significantly enhance your music enjoyment while also prioritizing your ear health. By considering factors such as usage, design, wired or wireless preference, budget, and accessories, you can make an informed decision and find the headphones that best suit your needs and preferences.
