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Best On Ear Headphones To Buy in 2017 – Expert Reviews

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Best On Ear Headphones 2017

Best On Ear Headphones 2017

Looking for a new pair of on-ear headphones?  We’ve collected the best on ear, open back, closed back and portable headphones to buy in 2017 and reviewed them to help you choose.

Shop: Visit our on-ear headphones store

Read More: Best In Ear Headphone Buying Guide

Best On Ear Headphones under £50

SoundMAGIC P22C

SoundMAGIC takes a lot of beating in this price category – the brand is a natural at making low cost headphones which sound much pricier.

The P22C model is a lightweight portable with a flat tangle-free cable and good isolation. Ideal for travel and holidays, these will fit right in to any bag or backpack when stored in their low profile travel case. The P22C included a microphone for phone usage and the remote is compatible with both Android and Apple devices.

Sound is impressive for this price point, with plenty of detail and a good kick to the bass without overpowering the mid range.

Engaging and fun-sounding, the P22C will make the absolute most of the output from any portable player.

Edifier P650

The Edifier P650 is a smartphone friendly, easy to carry portable headphone that punch above their weight and price.

Offering a well balanced sound with a little added kick down low, the midrange is clean and detailed and the treble isn’t far behind. The bass does not have the most sub-bass rumble but for a quick and easy to use, on the go headphone they offer great sound.

What impresses most is their ability to portray the whole frequency range in a well controlled and balanced manner, too many budget headphones overload you with muddy bass, yet these offer plenty of detail but are also easy to listen to; a no brainer at this price point.

Koss PortaPro

The simple design and great sound keeps them viable while the open-back design, whilst not being the best for isolation of course, is perfect for those who wish to be aware of what’s going on around them such as joggers, and muggers.

The sound is generally well balanced between bass and treble, although the midrange can seem a bit distant and mushy. Bass is perhaps a bit on the heavy side, but it will definitely satisfy those who want a bassy sound. The Koss Porta Pro Classics offer a warmish sound overall.

Be aware though that their open-back nature means that they will be of limited use in noisy environments.

READ MORE: Koss PortaPro Full Review

Best On Ear Headphones under £150

B&W P3 Series 2

B&W have a long history of making excellent hifi products, and this has trickled down into their headphones.

The P3 are superbly built with an elegant and sophisticated look, the P3 really do impress. Lucikly they are not all about the look either, as the P3 offer a smooth and effortless sound that is akin to their house speaker sound. Offering excellent full bodied bass response with a non fatiguing and slightly sweet midrange and treble.

Comfortable, well built with a smooth and pleasing sound signature, the P3 are perfect for on-the-go use.

Sennheiser HD25-1 II

The HD25-1 II are one of the most well known on-ear headphones, this is partly due to their popularity as a DJ headphone. Used by DJ’s and sound engineers globally the HD25-1 II are a rugged portable headphone that will last for years.

Offering an immediate and aggressive sound they won’t give you a wide soundstage but will give you an engaging and detailed signature. The bass is tight and digs deep with excellent control and presence, the midrange is smooth yet very detailed and the treble has good extension and is very well placed in the mix.

If you are looking for a smooth laid back sound, the B&W are probably a better choice, but if you want a fun, upfront and engaging listen the HD25-1 II is for you. All parts are easily replaceable too, should anything ever break.

Grado SR80e

The Grado SR80e are a definite improvement over the SR80i, with a slightly warmer, more balanced sound. Their retro styling may not appeal to all, but underneath the looks is a fine sounding open-back headphone. The undisputed king of headphones for rock music, these are sure to get you toe tapping and head banging in no time.

These will not appeal to bass heads, they fair better with music that is played on real instruments. They have long been favourites for people that enjoy rock music due to the speed and control of the sound.

At the price point I still think Grado hold their own with a well balanced, aggressive and detailed sound, there is nothing quite like them.

READ MORE: Grado SR80e Full Review

Best On Ear Headphones under £250

Sennheiser MOMENTUM 2.0i

The Momentum series are hugely popular with on the go commuters, and for good reason. Offering stylish looks, a comfortable fit and a smooth easy to listen to sound.

Built to last with replaceable parts, the Momentum has slightly retro looks and comes in an array of colours. With playback controls on the cable you no longer have to take your phone out of your pocket. The sound is dynamic and punchy, offrering a slightly bass driven sound without sacrificing the midrange and treble. Engaging and fun are the best word to sum up the Momentum 2.0i.

Good looks and great sound, it is easy to see why the Momentum 2.0i is so popular with commuters. For Android users there is also the Sennheiser Momentum 2.0G.

Beyerdynamic T51i

The T51i have been around for a while now and are still excellent on-the-go headphones. They have a sturdy and sophisticated look, and offer a well balanced and detailed sound.

The T51i again tilts towards an easier to listen to sound, with a slight bass boost that gives the whole sound a little added body. There is sufficient detail across the range to keep them from sounding boring and what comes to mind when you put the T51i on is refinement.

With excellent build, comfy fit and refined sound the T51i has a lot to offer.

READ MORE: Beyerdynamic T51i Full Review

Bowers & Wilkins P5 Series 2

Leather earpads and a metal headband, the P5 Series 2 screams quality and luxury. The earpads are soft lambskin leather with memory foam inside, like cushions against your ears.

Like the P3 the P5 Series 2 has the typical B&W house sound, which is smooth and effortless. Offering a well balanced but slightly rich sound with superb separation and articulation, from highs to lows these sound very refined and grown up.

The P5 Series 1 look stunning, have replaceable cables and a smooth effortless sound, what is not to like?

READ MORE: Bowers & Wilkins P5 Series 2 Full Review

Best On Ear Headphones Over £250

Audeze Sine

Built from leather and metal, the Audeze Sine are built to last and also come with detachable cables. Using planar magnetic drivers they take a little more power than most phones can output, so they are best used with a high quality music player.

Give them a good source and the Sine in return give you excellent audio with snappy dynamics that can keep up with the most demanding of music. The bass is full yet superbly controlled, the midrange is where these excel not allowing the lows to affect them. Guitars have excellent power, and vocals come across with plenty of detail. The highs are present and well defined, but never become too hot and harsh.

The Sine are a mighty fine sounding on-ear headphone when driven well, and give you a full and detailed sound all

Meze 99 Classic Headphones Review – Yes I Wood!

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Meze 99 Classics -Review- Yes I Wood!

 

In this world, we are used to things either being pretty, or useful. If you’ve ever tried to use a golden spanner, you’d have found it about as useful as a framed picture of your own intestines. However the Meze 99 Classics are claimed to be as good for listening to music as they are attractive; can it be true?

 

The name Meze brings up images of eating al fresco whilst overlooking the Mediterranean, and since the number ’99’ is attributable to a type of ice-cream here in the UK, a very enjoyable experience is brought to mind. We take our minds off food for long enough to put these headphones to the test..

 

Pros:

  • Looks lovely
  • Sounds excellent
  • Good fabric coated cables
  • 1.2m and 3m cables included
  • Hard carry case

 

Cons:

  • Some older recordings can seem overly bassy
  • Cables are a little stiff

 

 

Design and appearance

As mentioned, the 99 Classics do make quite an impact visually; wooden earcups are paired with a headband design which makes a feature of a strong, supporting outer frame. This is coupled with a more yielding strap, suspended to fit the head automatically. It’s a design which might have been borrowed from the Wright brothers; so hopefully this construction of wood, metal and space will enable us to fly!

The Meze 99 Classics are also available in two other versions, besides the maple and silver type in the pictures. These are with a darker walnut wood for the earcups, with either silver details on the headband/earcups (walnut silver) or gold (walnut gold).

Earcups are pivoted where the headband joins them so they fit against the head very nicely, making them both comfortable and effective at keeping exterior noise to a minimum. Cables are a little bit stiffer than they would be ideally, but this is not a big deal.

 

Durability & build quality

Being ostensibly portable headphones (there’s a 3m cable in the box as well as a 1.2m cable with mic), the Meze 99 Classics look as if they can tolerate a bit of hustle and bustle; there are no obvious weaknesses and the cables are quite sturdy with strain reliefs in the usual places. The supplied hard carry case looks very useful for keeping the headphones in top condition.

 

Comfort

The Meze 99 Classics are certainly among the most comfortable portable headphones; the clamping force exhibited by some portables is not needed here; instead the wide and self-adjusting headphone strap helps to keep the headphones in place, distributing the grip around the head and keeping pressure off the ears. The earpads may be a little on the snug size for some and might be a little hot in warm temperatures; we’ve not had any problems though.

 

Sound isolation

These headphones are very good at eliminating outside noise, and are effective in preventing any sound leaking out too. A really good seal can be achieved thanks to the way the headband connects to the earcups, and very little can be heard with music playing, so take care out there!

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READ MORE: B&W P7 Wireless Bluetooth Headphone Review

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Sound characteristics

The 99 Classics are definitely tuned with the mass market in mind, and their sound will appeal to most people who listen to music whilst on the move. It’s a good balance between detail and warmth, with a good bass kick as well.

 

Bass

The Meze 99 Classics should please any bass fan; there’s a roomy feeling sub-bass which seems to surround the head – it’s a good ‘party’ feel. With older recordings, lower frequencies can be picked out, and if you weren’t aware of those vintage basslines before, you will be now! The bass has a certain tangible quality which gives a nice body to proceedings, and has good definition; helped along by an uncluttered midrange..

 

Mids

The fleshiness of the bass is paired very nicely with midrange details, with clear harmonics adding some nice realism and space. There’s a surprising amount of detail, yet the Meze 99 Classics still have a fun sound. The midrange also contributes a spaciousness to the party with its detail; soundstage is actually quite impressive.

 

Treble

Treble is crisp and clear, but still balanced well with the lower frequencies; there’s a natural element to it which takes the edges off. Definition is good; percussion is rendered quite convincingly and wind instruments have a brash rasping quality. Again, this detail contributes to a feeling that the listener is truly in the midst of some fun and atmospheric action.

 

 

Soundstage & Separation

I cannot fault the Meze 99 Classics at what they do here; soundstage is wide, involving and very impressive for a closed back headphone. With midrange and treble harmonics giving a three-dimensional quality to each instrument, good separation and imaging are very successfully achieved.

 

Music Genres Good For and Why

Due to the way the bass response on the 99 Classics picks out bass frequencies from older recordings, these can sound quite different from how we’re accustomed to hearing them. Sometimes this works really nicely, sometimes the added bass gets a little too much. However with dance, rap and pop genres the 99 Classics are in their element and their bass response fits in very nicely. It would be a shame not to mention classical music (the genre the 99 Classics might have been named after) which came as a nice surprise when it was tried; it’s a very wide and engaging performance with lots of air and space. These headphones may have a fun sound, but they can definitely cope with serious pieces too.

Summary

I have to admit to hearing some things for first time whilst using the Meze 99 Classics; a bassline might have a little bit of texture to it which had previosly eluded me, backing singers surround me rather than standing at the back, and synths appear to be fresh and immediate with a new vitality.

The Meze 99 Classics work very nicely with decent gear, but they are also right at home when connected directly to a phone; be careful where you use the Meze 99 Classics because you’ll be dancing before you know what’s happening!

Best headphones with mic to buy in 2015

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Best Mobile Headphones With Mic

Below you will find the best headphones with microphone in both in-ear and on-ear designs. The reviews include headphones compatible with iPhone and Android phones.  From trusted brands like Beyerdynamic and Sennheiser, to the newest brands like Audiofly and SoundMAGIC.  Below you can check out our best rated mobile phone compatible headphones from the year so far.

Scroll down for in depth reviews of our favourite headphones with mic.

Shop: Visit our earphones with mic store.

More Info: Read our Best In-Ear Headphones Buying Guide.

In-Ear Headphones

SoundMAGIC E10S

From the start it is hard to believe that the E10S is under £40. The packaging is smart and of a very high quality – once opened you find plenty of spare ear tips and an attractive hard case. Holding the earphones you can feel how well made they are and the innovative switch on the jack plug will let you set the earphones to work with any smartphone – you would not expect technology like this on such a modestly priced earphone.

The E10s comes with ‘Smart Switch’ making it compatible with all smartphones, the E10S incorporates this ingenious user adjustable switch enabling control of Apple as well as Android smartphones. Owners of multiple smartphones can easily swap between devices to control call answer and end functions without compromise, and to top it all it comes in a choice of colours.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

If you have £40 to spend on some new earphones then go for the SoundMAGIC E10 – if you need an in-line microphone  then go for the E10S. Easy.

Sennheiser MM30G

Sennheiser’s quality earphones are specifically designed for more and more devices it seems, and it’s the turn of Samsung; for its Galaxy series of handsets.

They have a good balance with tight bass, clear midrange and great detail.

Enjoy Sennheiser’s trademark sound signature without incoming calls causing frustration. Also the wire-mounted control can change volume and track so you need not have your handset glued to your hand.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

Perfect for commuting, holidays and around town, the Sennheiser MM30G will make a big impact with its small profile

Audiofly AF45M

Australian Audiofly’s sound really grabs the attention with great bass, well balanced midrange and great detail without being too bright. A smooth, appealing treat of a headphone.

The 11mm driver will make light work of making your music sound sweeter than ever, while the AF45M’s single button is suitable for smartphones and will answer calls.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

If you’re after a fun sound without any chance of fatigue, look no further than Audiofly’s AF45M – they have a good heavy low end but with enough tightness to get any foot tapping.

RHA MA750i

The attractive and well machined finish of RHA’s range is perhaps indicative of their sound – bold but well honed bass, a good clear midrange and treble which will suit most people who like detail, without causing fatigue.

The fit in the ear is comfortable, with an over ear cable design that stays put even when walking fast or running.

The MA750i is a British company and back up their beautifully made products with a whopping 3 year warranty.  With earphones as good as the good as the MA750i, RHA is a brand to watch.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

If you want a relaxed presentation with no details lost, the MA750i is a perfect choice. The solid construction and lengthy warranty ensures you’ll be enjoying your music for a long time to come.

Beyerdynamic MMX102ie

The new and updated version of the MMX101ie, the 102ie features a more solid and better built cable with housings which are also more robust.

Beyerdynamic is a brand that can be trusted to develop headphones that are of the best quality and the MMX102ie is no exception.  The build quality is excellent, with strong plastics and well made cables.

Bass is good and solid, midrange clear with treble giving good detail with no harshness. The single-button remote will work with most smartphones and tablets.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

For a good balanced sound with solid bass and superb build quality, the MMX102ie provides long-lasting value.

 

On-Ear Headphones

Koss iPorta Pro

The Koss Porta Pro may not be an obvious choice for the top 10 best portable on ear headphones , it is likely older than most of its current users; introduced in the early 1980s, it pre-dates most other lightweight designs and has a real retro charm.

The sound is still very current however, as the Porta Pro’s sound signature suits dance music, rap and anything the user can throw at them.

A good level of bass and midrange gives a good grunt with realistic body. The highs are a little rolled off but not to the point where it’s a problem, indeed the roll-off makes them less likely to fatigue the wearer if dance music is played.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

Ideal for walkers, runners or for use around the house, the iPortaPro takes some beating and is based on what is generally recognised as a portable headphone classic.  For the money this is amazing value – get yourself a design classic which has stood the test of time.

Sennheiser MM400-X

Formerly voted What HiFi’s best wireless headphone, the MM400-X offers as much freedom as it does great sound. There are can never be any snags with a headphone of this calibre, but should battery life get low there is the option of using a cable so you need never be without your sounds.

They have the typical Sennheiser sound signature with good punchy bass, clear and balanced midrange, and smooth yet detailed treble. Isolation is good for a headphone of this type, but if you are looking for active noise cancellation consider the noisegard version, the MM450-X.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

Ideal for commuting or relaxing at home, the MM400-X will free you up to enjoy your sounds without becoming entangled.

Sennheiser Momentum On-Ear

The supra counterpart to the full-size Momentum, this on-ear version packs a punch just like its bigger brother. Full and warm bass which stays controlled, mids which are slightly recessed but still engaging – these headphones would suit those who favour a slight ‘V’ shape in their sound signature.

Supplied with a sturdy travel case, these are great for foreign adventures or just for enjoying whilst at work. The remote on the cable ensures that no calls need be missed with these immersive headphones.

They are well powered by portable devices such as phones, and are really suitable for this purpose.

Hifiheadphones verdict:

If supra-aural headphones appeal to you, the On-Ear Momentum is definitely worth a punt. They are fantastic all-rounders which can do any genre justice, anywhere.

KEF M500

Portable headphones are really getting some attention again, and the M500 is a great example of the type of quality which has entered this market recently. They are designed to hug the shape of the head and look very cool when worn, although the wearer may well be grinning like an idiot!

The sound is of amazing quality and it really is a strange feeling to be enjoying such a presentation whilst walking in the street, for example. They are solidly constructed without being heavy, and feel very comfortable. The earcups consist of a very soft cushion which provides good isolation without causing discomfort, so the high quality sound these deliver can be fully enjoyed.

The sound is wonderfully balanced; the bass is handled very well and is tight without sitting too far back; midrange is clear and unforced, and treble is crisp and grabs attention without getting harsh.

Hifiheadphones verdict:

For the price, these headphones are incredible value; they are the perfect travel companion for anyone who does not like to compromise when on the go.

 

 

 

Under £50

SoundMAGIC ES20 Earphones £24.99

SoundMAGIC have pushed the boundaries of what can be expected from an entry level earphone with the SoundMAGIC ES20, which makes this model a strong candidate for the title of best budget headphone. The sound is a quantum leap up from the cheap earbuds supplied with most MP3 players, with warm deep bass and plenty of detail in the trebles.

While you might expect a cheap earphone to be badly made, the ES20 is a part aluminium construction and comes fitted with good quality braided cabling (normally reserved for high end in-ear monitor earphones) with strain relief that is built to last. The quality of the product is truly commendable. The ES20 is like the baby brother of the award winning SoundMAGIC E10 which adds a full metal body and even higher sound quality – for a little more money.

Supplied with a neat carry pouch that is very usable and three size ear tips to get a good seal, the SoundMAGIC ES20 is a very well thought out package.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

In times past the Sennheiser CX300 was the first choice for entry level in-ear earphones, but the ES20 has just stolen that spot. Sound quality compares with earphones costing two or three times the price.

– See more at: http://hifiheadphones.co.uk/reviews/best-in-ear-headphones/#sthash.SYDPW9ui.dpuf

Under £50

SoundMAGIC ES20 Earphones £24.99

SoundMAGIC have pushed the boundaries of what can be expected from an entry level earphone with the SoundMAGIC ES20, which makes this model a strong candidate for the title of best budget headphone. The sound is a quantum leap up from the cheap earbuds supplied with most MP3 players, with warm deep bass and plenty of detail in the trebles.

While you might expect a cheap earphone to be badly made, the ES20 is a part aluminium construction and comes fitted with good quality braided cabling (normally reserved for high end in-ear monitor earphones) with strain relief that is built to last. The quality of the product is truly commendable. The ES20 is like the baby brother of the award winning SoundMAGIC E10 which adds a full metal body and even higher sound quality – for a little more money.

Supplied with a neat carry pouch that is very usable and three size ear tips to get a good seal, the SoundMAGIC ES20 is a very well thought out package.

HiFi Headphones Verdict:

In times past the Sennheiser CX300 was the first choice for entry level in-ear earphones, but the ES20 has just stolen that spot. Sound quality compares with earphones costing two or three times the price.

– See more at: http://hifiheadphones.co.uk/reviews/best-in-ear-headphones/#sthash.SYDPW9ui.dpuf