Headphones are a very personal audio product. What sounds great to one person might not sound so great to another, and vice versa. That’s why it’s important to find the right pair of headphones for your specific needs.
Open-back headphones allow for a more natural sound, as they don’t have the ear cups sealed around your ears. This results in a more open soundstage and less isolation from outside noise.
If you’re looking for the best open-back headphones in 2023, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve rounded up a selection of the best open-back headphones on the market and a buyer’s guide to help you choose the right pair for your needs.
Best Open Back Headphones 2023 Comparison Table
| Photo | Name | Check price | Brand | features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | SENNHEISER HD 559 Open back headphone | Check Price | SENNHEISER CONSUMER | • Premium components • Open acoustic design • E.A.R Technology • Extreme technology • Tonal balance |
 | Samson technologies SR850 Semi open back studio reference headphones | Check Price | SAMSON STORE | • Studio quality sound • Studio comfort • Semi open advantage • Self-adjusting headband for optimal fit • Design for tracking |
 | SENNHEISER HD560 S Over The Ear audiophile headphones | Check Price | SENNHEISER CONSUMER | • Natural and accurate references sound • Lifelike depth and realism • Wide sound age • Clear bass performance • flexible |
 | SENNHEISER HD 660 S HiRes audiophile open back headphone | Check Price | SENNHEISER CONSUMER | • Exceptional sound • Advanced tranducers • Versatile connectivity • Supreme comfort • Accurate and transparent sound |
 | BEYERDYNAMIC DT990 PRO Over Ear studio monitor head phones | Check Price | BEYERDYNAMIC STORE | • Perfect for studio application • High wearing comfort • Durable • Spacious open design • Total comfort • Made in German |
 | SENNHEISER CONSUMER audio HD 599 SE Around Ear open back headphones | Check Price | SENNHEISER CONSUMER | • Exceptional sound • Advanced tranducers • Versatile connectivity • Supreme comfort • Accurate and transparent sound |
 | Philips SHP600 Wired, over ear headphones | Check Price | Philips Audio store | • Open back design • Superb comfort and durability • Connect to any source • Balanced midrange • Pristine high frequencies |
 | SENNHEISER HD800 S Over the ear audiophile reference headphones | Check Price | SENNHEISER CONSUMER | • connectivity technology • Unique ear cup design • Innovative absorber technology • Dynamic headphones |
 | SENNHEISER HD 650 Audiophile HiRes open back dynamic headphones | Check Price | SENNHEISER CONSUMER AUDIO STORE | • Dynamic hi fi stereo headphones • Balanced& transparent sound • High quality titanium • Made in Ireland • Lightweight aluminum voice coils |
 | Audio Technica ATH R70x professional open back reference headphones | Check Price | Audio technica store | • Extremely accurate sound • Detailed transient response • Comfortable fit for hours use • Acoustic transparent • Breathable fabric earpads • Spacious open back sound |
1) SENNHEISER Open Back Headphone HD 559 – Black
The Sennheiser HD 559 is a great pair of open-back headphones that offer excellent sound quality and a comfortable around-ear design. They have a detachable cable and come with a 3-meter long one, so you can easily replace it if it gets damaged.
The ear cups are also very soft and comfortable, making them great for long listening sessions. They have 50-ohm transducers that produce clear and detailed audio. The bass is also well-balanced and not overpowering.
2) Samson Technologies Semi Open-Back Studio Reference Headphones, Black SR850
The Samson Technologies SR850 is a great choice for professional studio recording and mixing. These headphones have 50mm drivers which are very powerful, allowing for extended frequency response and great dynamic range. Additionally, the headphones feature a self-adjusting headband and come with a 1/4″ stereo adapter.
These headphones provide an exceptional value for the money and are a great choice for those looking for a quality pair of open-back headphones.
3) Sennheiser S Over-The-Ear Audiophile Headphones (HD 560)
When it comes to accurate, natural sound, the Sennheiser HD 560 over-the-ear headphones are in a class of their own. With their open-back earcups and wide soundstage, these headphones provide an immersive listening experience that brings out all the depth and realism in your music.
From the extended low-end reach to the gratifying presence, these headphones will take your music listening to the next level. The connectivity technology is wired and the connector type is 1/4-inch.
4) SENNHEISER HiRes Audiophile Open Back Headphone HD 660 S
If you’re looking for the best open-back headphones in terms of audio quality, then you can’t go wrong with the Sennheiser HD 660 S. These reference class open-back headphones offer incredible sound quality, thanks to their dynamic transducers and 150-ohm nominal impedance.
They also come with two detachable cables (one standard and one balanced), so you can choose the best connection for your needs. And if you’re looking for maximum comfort, the HD 660 S features para aramid-reinforced ear pads and headband padding.
5) beyerdynamic PRO Over-Ear Studio Monitor Headphones (DT 990)
The beyerdynamic PRO Over-Ear Studio Monitor Headphones are perfect for professional mixing, editing, mastering, and listening. These headphones feature replaceable velour ear pads for high wearing comfort and durable, robust workmanship that is made in Germany.
6) Sennheiser Consumer Audio Around-Ear Open Back Headphone,Black – HD 599 SE
The Sennheiser HD 599 SE are well-rounded open-back headphones. They have a very good audio reproduction and are comfortable enough to wear for long listening sessions. They also have the above-average build quality and come with two detachable cables.
Best Open Back Headphones 2023 – Buying Guide
What Are Open Back Headphones?
As the name suggests, open-back headphones have an open design that allows air to circulate around the driver. This results in a more natural and spacious sound. Open-back headphones are typically used by audio professionals for recording and mixing, but they can also be enjoyed by music lovers who appreciate a more natural sound.
Open-back headphones work by having the back of the ear-cup open to allow air to circulate around the driver. This design results in a more natural and spacious sound, as well as increased comfort thanks to the increased airflow.
Photo Source: techradar.com
Different Types Of Open Back Headphones
Headphones are one of the most important pieces of equipment for any music lover. They allow you to hear your music the way it was meant to be heard, and they can also help you to appreciate the subtle nuances in each track.
There are many different types of headphones on the market, but not all of them are created equal. Below, we will be going over some of the different types of open-back headphones that you may want to consider investing in for your listening needs.
Over-Ear Headphone
Over-ear headphones are some of the most popular types of headphones on the market. They are designed to fit snugly over your ears and they offer a great deal of comfort. Over-ear headphones are great for long listening sessions and they offer a very natural sound.
When using over-ear headphones, you will want to make sure that you choose a pair that has cushioned ear cups. This will help to ensure that your ears do not become sore after extended periods of use.
On-Ear Headphone
On-ear headphones are similar to over-ear headphones, but they are designed to sit on top of your ears instead of around them. On-ear headphones are typically lighter and more compact than over-ear headphones, making them a good choice if you’re looking for easy portability.
One benefit of on-ear headphones is that they don’t tend to get as hot as over-ear headphones, making them a more comfortable option for long listening sessions. However, on-ear headphones can put more pressure on your ears than over-ear headphones, which some people may find uncomfortable.
In-Ear Headphone
In-ear headphones are the smallest and most compact type of headphones. They are designed to fit snugly inside your ear canal, providing a secure and comfortable fit. In-ear headphones are a good choice if you’re looking for easy portability, as they can easily be slipped into your pocket or purse.
To use in-ear headphones, you will need to insert the earbuds into your ear canal. Some people find this to be uncomfortable, so it’s important to try them out before you buy to see if they’re a good fit for you.
These are just a few of the different types of open-back headphones that you may want to consider. No matter what type of headphones you choose, make sure that you pick a pair that is comfortable to wear and that offers good sound quality.
Photo Source: musicradar.com
Considerations Before Buying Open Back Headphones
Headphones are a very personal item. What sounds great to one person might not sound so great to another. That’s why it’s important to take the time to read reviews and compare different models before making a purchase. Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for open-back headphones:
Sound Quality
This is the most important consideration when choosing any type of headphone. Make sure to read reviews to find out what other people think of the sound quality before making a purchase.
Comfort
When shopping for open-back headphones, comfort is an important consideration. Some headphones can be quite uncomfortable, especially over long periods of time. Make sure to read reviews to find out how comfortable different models are before making a purchase.
Fit
The fit of your headphones is also important. Some models might slip off your ears easily, while others might be too tight. Make sure to try on different models to find the perfect fit before making a purchase.
Price
Open-back headphones can range in price from around $50 to over $1000. It’s important to set a budget before shopping and to stick to it. Keep in mind that the most expensive model is not necessarily the best sounding.
Materials
When it comes to finding the perfect pair of open-back headphones, the materials used in their construction are just as important as their design. The best open-back headphones are typically made from high-quality materials like aluminum, steel, or even wood. This helps to ensure that they are both durable and comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
Versatility
Some open-back headphones are more versatile than others. If you plan on using your headphones for a variety of activities, make sure to choose a pair that is designed for that purpose. For example, some models might have a detachable cable that makes them more convenient for traveling.
Features
Some open-back headphones come with special features, such as noise-canceling or Bluetooth connectivity. These features can be helpful, but they are not necessary for everyone. decide what features are important to you before making a purchase.
Now that you know what to look for when shopping for open-back headphones, it’s time to start comparing different models. Make sure to read reviews from multiple sources before making a decision. This will help you find the perfect pair of headphones for your needs.
Benefits Of Open Back Headphones
There are many benefits to using open-back headphones, which is why they have become so popular in recent years. Some of the main advantages include:
1. Better sound quality
Open-back headphones allow sound to escape from the ear cups, which gives you a more immersive listening experience. The audio will sound more natural and you’ll be able to hear elements that you wouldn’t be able to with closed-back headphones.
2. Greater comfort
Open-back headphones are usually more comfortable to wear for extended periods of time since the ear cups aren’t sealed around your ears. This can reduce fatigue and allow you to enjoy your music for longer.
3. Less heat build-up
Since open-back headphones don’t seal around your ears, they allow air to circulate which can help to prevent heat build-up. This is especially beneficial if you tend to get sweaty when wearing headphones.
4. Better for mixing and mastering
If you’re a music producer, you’ll know that it’s important to be able to hear both the music you’re working on and the outside world. Open-back headphones are perfect for this since they allow you to hear what’s going on around you while still being able to focus on the music.
5. More stylish
Open-back headphones tend to have a more premium look and feel than closed-back models. If you’re looking for a stylish pair of headphones, open-back is the way to go.
As you can see, there are many benefits to using open-back headphones. If you’re looking for a more immersive listening experience or you need a pair of headphones that are better for mixing and mastering, open-back is the way to go.
How To Use Open Back Headphones?
Open-back headphones are a great choice for those who want to enjoy the best sound quality. However, before you can use them, there are a few things you need to know. Here is a quick guide on how to use open-back headphones:
- Make sure that the headphones are properly positioned on your head. The ear cups should be sitting comfortably on your ears and the headband should be snug but not too tight.
- Once you have positioned the headphones, adjust the volume to a comfortable level. Be careful not to crank the volume up too high as this can damage your hearing.
- If you are using open-back headphones for the first time, it is advisable to start with lower volume levels and gradually increase it over time.
- When you are finished using the headphones, make sure to turn the volume down and disconnect them from the audio source. Don’t forget to put them back in their case or storage space to protect them from damage.
- If you are not using the headphones for an extended period of time, it is best to store them in a cool and dry place. Avoid storing them in humid or dusty environments as this can damage the drivers.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your open-back headphones will last for many years to come. Enjoy the amazing sound quality that they have to offer!
Frequently Asked Questions
How To Maintain Open Back Headphones?
Just like any other type of headphones, open-back headphones require regular cleaning and maintenance in order to function properly. You should avoid exposing them to dirt, dust, and other debris, and make sure to clean them frequently with a soft, dry cloth. It’s also important to keep the ear cups dry, as moisture can damage the drivers.
How Often Should I Clean My Open Back Headphones?
It’s generally best to clean your open-back headphones at least once a week, but depending on how often you use them, you may need to clean them more frequently. If you notice that the sound quality has decreased or they’re starting to look dirty, it’s definitely time for a cleaning.
Is It Worth Upgrading To Open Back Headphones?
If you’re a casual listener, you probably don’t need to upgrade to open-back headphones. However, if you’re an audio enthusiast or you plan on using them for professional purposes, it’s definitely worth the investment. Open-back headphones offer much better sound quality and isolation than their closed-back counterparts.
Do Open Back Headphones Leak Sound?
Yes, open-back headphones leak sound, but they leak less sound than closed-back headphones. If you’re looking for headphones that don’t leak sound, you should get a pair of noise-canceling headphones.
How To Clean Open Back Headphones?
To clean open-back headphones, you’ll need a dry, soft cloth. Gently wipe down the ear cups and headband, being careful not to damage the drivers. You can also use a cotton swab to clean the crevices of the ear cups. If your headphones are really dirty, you can use a mild soap and water solution, but be sure to dry them completely afterward.
How Long Do Open Back Headphones Last?
Open-back headphones can last for many years if they’re properly cared for. However, the lifespan of your headphones will depend on how often you use them and how well you take care of them. If you use your headphones frequently, you may need to replace the ear pads every few years.
Does Weather Affect Open Back Headphones?
Yes, weather can affect open-back headphones. Extreme cold or heat can damage the drivers, so it’s best to avoid storing them in extreme temperatures. You should also avoid getting them wet, as moisture can damage the electronics.
My Open Back Headphones Keep Breaking, What Should I Do?
If your open-back headphones keep breaking, it’s probably time to invest in a new pair. However, if you’re determined to keep using them, you may be able to fix them by soldering the broken parts back together. This is a difficult repair and should only be attempted by someone with experience.
Final Words
Open-back headphones are designed to offer a more natural listening experience, and they’re especially well-suited for critical listening applications like mixing and mastering.
The best open-back headphones will have a spacious and well-balanced sound, with clear and accurate treble, mid-range, and bass frequencies. They should also be comfortable to wear for long periods of time and have a durable build quality that can withstand regular use.
With a little bit of research, you should be able to find a pair of open-back headphones that meet your specific needs and budget.
My name is Andy Sawyer, and I am the founder of headphonester.com, a website dedicated to providing in-depth reviews and guides on the best headphones available on the market. With over 10 years of experience in audio engineering, I’m passionate about helping people find great sound at an affordable price. Let me help you find your perfect pair of headphones!