Looking for good closed-back headphones under $500? They’re popular among music fans for great sound and noise isolation. We’ve done the work to find the best ones. We’ll tell you about their good and not-so-good points, how they sound, how comfy they are, how strong they are, and what cool extras they offer. This way, you can make a smart choice for your music needs.
AT A GLANCE
- Beyerdynamic Dt 700 Pro X
- Focal Elegia Close Back Headphones
- Bose QuietComfort 35 Close back
- Audio-Technica Close back headphone
- SONY WH-1000XM3
- Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
- DROP + HIFIMAN HE-R7DX
- SENNHEISER HD 569 Closed Back Headphone
Lits of 8 Best Closed Back Headphones:-
We know that finding the perfect pair of headphones can be a daunting task, especially when you’re on a budget. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best closed-back headphones under $500. Whether you’re a music producer or just looking for a high-quality listening experience, we’ve got you covered.
Our team of experts has tested and reviewed each of these headphones to ensure that they not only meet your budget but also provide exceptional sound quality and comfort. So, sit back, relax, and let us help you find the perfect pair of headphones for your needs.
1.Beyerdynamic Dt 700 Pro X
If you’re looking for a versatile, high-quality pair of closed-back headphones under $500, the Beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO X is an excellent option.
Pros
- The Stellar.45 drivers deliver a detailed, powerful sound that’s well-suited to recording and monitoring.
- The 48-ohm impedance makes these headphones compatible with a wide range of devices.
- The passive cushioning provides exceptional comfort, even during extended listening sessions.
Cons
- The headphones are relatively heavy, which may make them uncomfortable for some users.
- The cable is quite long, which can be inconvenient when using the headphones on the go.
- Some users have reported issues with the headband breaking after extended use.
We were impressed by the sound quality of the Beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO X headphones. The Stellar.45 drivers deliver a detailed, powerful sound that’s well-suited to recording and monitoring. The headphones are also versatile, with an impedance of 48 ohms which makes them compatible with a wide range of devices.
In addition to their impressive sound quality, the Beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO X headphones are also exceptionally comfortable. The passive cushioning provides outstanding comfort, even during extended listening sessions.
However, there are a few downsides to these headphones. They are relatively heavy, which may make them uncomfortable for some users. Additionally, the cable is quite long, which can be inconvenient when using the headphones on the go. Finally, some users have reported issues with the headband breaking after extended use.
Overall, we would recommend the Beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO X headphones to anyone in the market for a high-quality pair of closed-back headphones under $500. They offer exceptional sound quality and comfort, although they may not be the best option for users who prioritize portability or durability.
Read the full review: Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X: still worth it 2023?
2. Focal Elegia Close Back Headphones
We highly recommend the Focal Elegia Audiophile Circum-Aural Closed-Back Over-Ear Headphones for anyone looking for top-of-the-line sound quality and comfort.
Pros
- The full-range ‘M’-shape aluminum/magnesium dome speaker driver provides an incredibly high-frequency response, resulting in supremely dynamic sound.
- The solid aluminum headband wrapped in leather and perforated microfiber molds securely to the head shape, making these headphones incredibly comfortable for long listening sessions.
- The frameless voice coil, which is lightweight yet incredibly stiff, reproduces even the minutest details, adding to the convincing all-round performance.
Cons
- These headphones are on the pricier side, so they may not be the best option for those on a tight budget.
- The non-braided headphone cable can become tangled and knotted easily, which can be frustrating.
- The closed-back design provides excellent sound isolation, but it can also lead to a lack of breathability, which can make the ears feel hot and sweaty after prolonged use.
The Focal Elegia Audiophile Circum-Aural Closed-Back Over-Ear Headphones are a true audiophile’s dream. The sound quality is simply unmatched, with incredible tonal balance and long-term comfort. The solid aluminum headband is wrapped in leather and perforated microfiber, which molds securely to the head shape, making these headphones incredibly comfortable for long listening sessions.
The full-range ‘M’-shape aluminum/magnesium dome speaker driver provides an incredibly high-frequency response, resulting in supremely dynamic sound. The frameless voice coil, which is lightweight yet incredibly stiff, reproduces even the minutest details, adding to the convincing all-round performance. The closed-back design provides excellent sound isolation, making these headphones the ideal solution for long listening sessions.
However, these headphones are on the pricier side, so they may not be the best option for those on a tight budget. Additionally, the non-braided headphone cable can become tangled and knotted easily, which can be frustrating. The closed-back design provides excellent sound isolation, but it can also lead to a lack of breathability, which can make the ears feel hot and sweaty after prolonged use.
Overall, we highly recommend the Focal Elegia Audiophile Circum-Aural Closed-Back Over-Ear Headphones for anyone looking for top-of-the-line sound quality and comfort.
Read the full review: Focal Elegia review
3. Bose QuietComfort 35 Close back
If you’re looking for a pair of noise-canceling headphones under $500, then the Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones are an excellent choice that you won’t regret.
Pros
- The three levels of world-class noise cancellation provide an immersive listening experience in any environment.
- These headphones are Alexa-enabled, allowing you to access music, information, and more with just your voice.
- The noise-rejecting dual-microphone system ensures clear sound and voice pick-up, even in noisy environments.
Cons
- The audio quality is not as good as some other high-end headphones in this price range.
- The headphones can feel a bit heavy and uncomfortable after extended use.
- The battery life is not as long as some other noise-canceling headphones on the market.
We were impressed with the noise-cancellation capabilities of the Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones. They do an excellent job of blocking out external noise, making them perfect for use in noisy environments such as airplanes or trains. The three levels of noise cancellation also give you some flexibility in how much external noise you want to let in.
We also appreciated the Alexa integration, which made it easy to access music, information, and other features without having to take out our phones. The noise-rejecting dual-microphone system worked well, and we had no issues with call quality even in noisy environments.
However, we did notice that the audio quality was not as good as some other high-end headphones in this price range. The bass was a bit lacking, and the overall sound profile felt a bit flat. Additionally, the headphones can feel a bit heavy and uncomfortable after extended use, which may be an issue for some users.
Overall, we would recommend the Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones to anyone looking for a reliable pair of noise-canceling headphones under $500. They may not have the best audio quality on the market, but they more than makeup for it with their noise-cancellation capabilities and convenient features.
Read the full review: Bose QuietComfort 35:Is it worth upgrade?
4. Audio-Technica Close back headphone
If you’re looking for closed-back headphones under $500, then the Audio-Technica ATH-A990Z is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The headphones have a wide frequency response and low impedance, making them suitable for Hi-Res audio reproduction.
- The lightweight aluminum housings reduce unwanted resonance, ensuring clear and accurate sound.
- The 3D wing support system and soft premium-grade ear pads provide a comfortable fit, even for extended listening sessions.
Cons
- The headphones may not be suitable for people with larger heads, as the wings may not extend far enough.
- The cable is not detachable, which may make it difficult to replace if it becomes damaged.
- The headphones may not be suitable for use in noisy environments, as they do not have active noise cancellation.
We’ve been using the Audio-Technica ATH-A990Z for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with their sound quality. The 53 mm drivers with OFC bobbin-wound voice coils deliver Hi-Res audio reproduction, and the integrated yoke and top-mounted PCB provide superior transient response and smoother airflow for precise diaphragm movement. The double Air damping system (D A D S) ensures deep bass reproduction, making these headphones suitable for a wide range of music genres.
The lightweight aluminum housings reduce unwanted resonance, ensuring clear and accurate sound. The 3D wing support system and soft premium-grade ear pads provide a comfortable fit, even for extended listening sessions. However, the wings may not extend far enough for people with larger heads, which may make them uncomfortable to wear.
The 3.0m (9.8′) tangle-free cable is cloth-wrapped for lasting durability. However, the cable is not detachable, which may make it difficult to replace if it becomes damaged. Additionally, the headphones do not have active noise cancellation, which may make them unsuitable for use in noisy environments.
Overall, we highly recommend the Audio-Technica ATH-A990Z for anyone looking for closed-back headphones under $500. They offer excellent sound quality, a comfortable fit, and lasting durability.
Read the full review: Audio-Technica ATH-A990Z Review
5. SONY WH-1000XM3 close back headphone
We highly recommend the Sony WH1000XM3 Noise Cancelling Headphones for anyone looking for a high-quality pair of closed-back headphones under $500.
Pros
- The industry-leading digital noise canceling feature provides a personalized, virtually soundproof experience.
- The built-in mic allows for hands-free phone calls.
- The Alexa-enabled voice assistant feature allows for easy access to music and information.
Cons
- The touch controls can be a bit finicky and take some getting used to.
- The headphones can be uncomfortable for some people to wear for extended periods of time.
- The noise canceling feature can sometimes affect the sound quality.
We were impressed with the Sony WH1000XM3 Noise Cancelling Headphones’ digital noise canceling feature, which effectively blocks out external noise for a personalized listening experience.
The built-in mic and Alexa-enabled voice assistant also make it easy to take hands-free phone calls and access music and information. However, the touch controls can be a bit finicky and take some getting used to, and some people may find the headphones uncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
Additionally, the noise canceling feature can sometimes affect the sound quality. Overall, we believe that the Sony WH1000XM3 Noise Cancelling Headphones are a great choice for anyone in the market for closed-back headphones under $500.
Read the full review: SONY WH-1000XM3 Review
6.Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
If you’re looking for a pair of closed-back headphones under $500, we highly recommend the Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Professional Studio Monitor Headphones. They offer exceptional sound quality and comfort, making them a great choice for both casual music listening and professional audio work.
Pros
- The sound quality of the ATH-M50X is simply outstanding. The large aperture drivers and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coil deliver exceptional clarity and accuracy throughout the entire frequency range, with deep and accurate bass response.
- The circumaural design of the headphones contours around the ears, providing excellent sound isolation even in loud environments. This makes them a great choice for recording and mixing in a studio setting.
- The 90-degree swiveling earcups make it easy to monitor audio with one ear, and the professional-grade earpad and headband material provide both durability and comfort.
Cons
- The ATH-M50X headphones are wired, which may be a downside for some users who prefer the convenience of wireless headphones.
- While the headphones are comfortable to wear for extended periods of time, they may feel a bit heavy for some users.
- The headphones are not foldable, which may make them less portable than some other options on the market.
Overall, we believe that the Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Professional Studio Monitor Headphones are an excellent choice for anyone looking for closed-back headphones under $500. They offer exceptional sound quality, comfort, and durability, making them a great investment for both casual and professional use.
Read the full review: Audio Technica ATH-M50x
7.DROP + HIFIMAN HE-R7DX
If you’re looking for a versatile pair of high-efficiency, closed-back headphones that deliver excellent isolation, impressive details, and open-back-level sound staging, you should definitely consider the DROP + HIFIMAN HE-R7DX. These headphones are tuned for transparency, making them a workhorse tailor-made for home and pro studios, as well as higher-noise environments such as communal living areas and commutes.
Pros
- The large 50-millimeter drivers are tuned for midrange focus, high-end clarity, and low-end punch.
- The Topology Diaphragm technology allows for a level of sonic control never before seen in headphone drivers.
- The hand-stitched protein leather headband and Focus-A hybrid earpads provide uncompromising comfort—no matter where you choose to listen.
Cons
- The headband design could be better.
- The headphones are a bit heavy.
- The cable could be longer.
We’ve been using the DROP + HIFIMAN HE-R7DX for a few weeks now and we’re impressed with their sound quality. The midrange focus, high-end clarity, and low-end punch are all excellent. The Topology Diaphragm technology really does allow for precise tailoring of sound wave formation, resulting in a level of sonic control that we’ve never experienced before in headphone drivers.
The headphones are also extremely comfortable to wear, thanks to the hand-stitched protein leather headband and Focus-A hybrid earpads. We’ve worn them for hours on end without experiencing any discomfort. The headphones are a bit heavy, but we don’t find that to be a major issue.
The only real downsides to the headphones are the headband design and the cable length. The headband could be more adjustable and the cable could be longer. However, these are relatively minor issues that don’t detract from the overall quality of the headphones.
Overall, we highly recommend the DROP + HIFIMAN HE-R7DX to anyone looking for a versatile pair of high-efficiency, closed-back headphones that deliver excellent sound quality and uncompromising comfort.
Read the full review: DROP + HIFIMAN HE-R7DX Review
8. SENNHEISER HD 569 Closed Back Headphone
If you’re looking for a pair of closed-back headphones under $500, the SENNHEISER HD 569 is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The proprietary Sennheiser 38-millimeter, 23-ohm transducers provide excellent sound quality and clarity.
- The soft, replaceable ear pads make for a comfortable listening experience, even for extended periods of time.
- The two included cables (a 3-meter detachable cable with a 6.3-millimeter jack and a 1.2-meter detachable cable with a 3.5-millimeter jack with an in-line microphone and remote for call and music control) provide flexibility and convenience.
Cons
- The headphones may feel a bit heavy and bulky, especially for people with smaller heads.
- The ear cups may not be adjustable enough to fit all head sizes comfortably.
- The noise isolation could be better, as some sound leakage may occur.
In terms of sound quality, the SENNHEISER HD 569 headphones are exceptional. The proprietary transducer technology provides rich and clear bass, making it possible to enjoy the full personal experience without disturbing others. The full-sized circumaural design offers exceptional wearing comfort thanks to the large ear cups and soft replaceable ear pads.
The headphones come with two cables, which is a nice touch. The 3-meter detachable cable with a 6.3-millimeter jack and the 1.2-meter detachable cable with a 3.5-millimeter jack with an in-line microphone and remote for call and music control provides flexibility and convenience.
However, the headphones may feel a bit heavy and bulky, especially for people with smaller heads. The ear cups may not be adjustable enough to fit all head sizes comfortably.
Additionally, the noise isolation could be better, as some sound leakage may occur.
Overall, if you’re looking for a pair of closed-back headphones under $500 that provide excellent sound quality and comfort, the SENNHEISER HD 569 is definitely worth considering.
Read the full review: SENNHEISER HD 569 Review
Buying Guide
When it comes to purchasing closed-back headphones under $500, there are a few things to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some features to look for when choosing the right headphones:
Sound Quality
One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing headphones is sound quality. Look for headphones that offer a balanced and accurate sound with a good bass response. It’s also important to consider the soundstage, which refers to the perceived distance and location of sound sources. A wider soundstage can provide a more immersive listening experience.
Comfort
Since you’ll be wearing your headphones for extended periods of time, comfort is another important factor to consider. Look for headphones with soft earpads and a comfortable headband. Over-ear headphones tend to be more comfortable than on-ear headphones, but this is a matter of personal preference.
Noise Isolation
Closed-back headphones are designed to provide better noise isolation than open-back headphones. Look for headphones with good noise isolation to block out external noise and prevent sound leakage.
Durability
Since headphones are often used on the go, it’s important to choose a product that is durable and built to last. Look for headphones with a sturdy construction and high-quality materials.
Connectivity
Consider the type of connectivity you need. Wired headphones typically offer better sound quality, while wireless headphones are more convenient for on-the-go use. Look for headphones with Bluetooth connectivity if you want to use them with your smartphone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best closed-back headphones under $500 for your needs.
Conclusion
Closed-back headphones under $500 offer excellent sound and isolation. We’ve looked at the best options, considering comfort, durability, and features, so you can choose wisely for your music.