Best Closed Back Headphones Under $500

Here I am going to compare several pretty famous closed back headphone models. But what makes this review special is the fact that there are only the best closed back headphones under 500. This is not cheap, however, the quality you get is great. The devices mentioned below are suitable for those who want to feel maximum comfort and get an incredibly clear sound listening to favorite songs.

This time I focused on closed back headphones since most of them are pretty portable, suitable for traveling, and can block ambient noise. The versatility of the closed back models makes them right for using at home, in public, and at the office. In addition, such appliances sound fantastic even at low volume. There are some other benefits that are shown here but every gadget has its own pros and cons. So, choosing the best closed back headphones under $500 at random is not a good idea. Therefore, I have compared 3 pairs of headphones made by famous manufacturers and found out what they have in common and what is different between them. So, let's cut to the chase!

Best Over Ear Closed Back Headphones

Sony WH1000XM3 - best overall

I offer you to start with this wireless device that is foldable and has an exceptionally sleek minimalist design. These are the best closed headphones under 500 and they can also be used with a wire since you get them with an audio cable.

One of the most attractive things about Sony WH1000XM3 is that this appliance has active noise canceling. You can get a crystal clear audio by just pressing a button. Plus, it is possible to adjust the power of noise canceling. The voice control gives you an opportunity to do it using Google Assistant or Siri. Using these headphones as wireless is very convenient as they support Bluetooth 4.2 and NFC.

You have to spend only 3 hours charging the WH1000XM3 and you get 30 hours of playback. Moreover, if you do not need noise canceling and turn it off, then the headphones are going to work for about 38 hours. The device delivers unbelievably detailed sound as its frequency range is between 4 Hz and 40 kHz. Another thing that makes the Sony headphones sound amazing is aptX HD support. I also have to mention that their sensitivity is 104 dB, while the level of impedance is 16 Ohm.

Sound

The headphones sound really impressive, thanks to a bass performance that is full, but not overwhelming. I would describe the audio provided by Sony WH1000XM3 as gloriously open and spacious. Mids are straightforward, while the soundstage is dynamic, highlighted by great stereo imaging. There is an EQ available in Sony's app if you want to change some settings.

Bose QuietComfort 35 II

Let me tell you something interesting about this wireless device with an over ear design. The first thing that has to be mentioned is the weight of Bose QuietComfort 35 II which is 240 g/8.3 oz. The headphone casing is made of plastic material making it lightweight. You can answer phone calls with these headphones since they have a built-in microphone. The mentioned model has built-in buttons for control, however, you can also use Siri, and Amazon Alexa for this.

The QuietComfort 35 II supports NFC and Bluetooth. Unfortunately, there is no aptX. To enjoy your favorite music in a noisy environment, you have to press a button that turns on a noise canceling function. You can adjust its power according to the loudness of the surrounding sounds. There are high, low, and off levels.

Despite the fact Bose QuietComfort 35 II is a wireless appliance, you can use it with a cable, too. Its length is 120 cm/3.9 ft. But it is not likely that you will need the wire since the battery life of the headphones is 20 hours which is pretty long. The time needed for charging is only 2 hours.

Sound

The bass delivered by the QuietComfort 35 II is rich and fine, even at low volume. Also, these headphones have a controlled & measured operation of high treble. Voices sound clear. The microphone provides excellent voice intelligibility, and the noise cancellation is helpful during those calls as well.

Best On Ear Closed Back Headphones

Beats Solo Pro

These on ear headphones have ANC and normally work up to 22 hours. But when you do not need to block out ambient noise, you will have about 40 hours of playback. If you are in a hurry, just spend 10 minutes on charging and get 3-hours battery life thanks to the speed charge function.

Consider that there is no aptX support but the device has Bluetooth for wireless connection. With Beats Solo Pro, you will have Siri and Google Assistant. Making phone calls with the mentioned appliance is not a problem since it has a microphone. These headphones can be used only as wireless. Their noise canceling function works fine, you can change its level.

The Solo Pro weighs 267 g/9.4 oz. For those who like traveling or look for a device that is easy-to-carry I have good news — these headphones are foldable. You can put them in a nice small carrying case and take it with you anywhere.

Sound

The balance is fantastic on songs that do not have an intended bass boost. Sub-bass notes are reproduced twice as loud as vocal (midrange) frequencies. These headphones offer very lively, dynamic sound with great instrument placement.