On-ear headphones are the perfect choice for anyone who needs an extremely portable audio solution but dislikes the isolation in-ear headphones (IEMs) provide. They sit against your ears without fully encompassing them and are usually smaller than their over-ear counterparts to facilitate better portability and yet offer great sound. Here are some on-ear headphones available on Amazon that can satisfy the pickiest audiophile. These have been picked on the basis of their features and specifications.
Audio-Technica ATH-M60X On-Ear Headphones
Possessing the same proprietary 45mm drivers found in the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x (a legendary over-ear headphone that’s been the start of the audio rabbit hole for many), the Audio Technica ATH-M60x is an extremely portable, low profile, closed-back headphone. The sound signature makes it perfect for studio monitoring, mixing and mastering while the tasteful low-end bump makes listening to anything bass-heavy really fun as well. The build feels premium with ample metal used in its construction and the protein leather earpads feel comfortable on the ear. It comes with three detachable cables, a screw-on 6.3mm adaptor and a carrying pouch in the box. If you require headphones for studio work or reference-grade sound appeals to you, the Audio Technica ATH-M60x is a worthy option.
V-Moda XS On-Ear Folding Headphones
The V-Moda XS is a good looking pair of On-Ear headphones that are built to last. Featuring a “Virtually Indestructible” Steeflex headband that can take being bent flat 10+ times and solid metal earcups that can survive being tossed about with impunity, the XS headphones are obviously very well-built. The 40mm dual-diaphragm drivers produce explosive bass that is sure to satisfy even the most diehard basshead, aided by the design of the earcups that eliminate any gap between the headphone and your ear for a better seal and fit. There’re a plethora of accessories available like a boom mic and cables with different terminations to make the XS very versatile. For those wanting an extremely portable bassy headphone that can take any abuse thrown at it, the V-Moda XS is an amazing pickup.
Bowers & Wilkins P5 S2 Headphones, Black
Supra-aural or on-ear headphones sometimes uncomfortably press against your ear due to their smaller circular earpads. The Bowers & Wilkins P5 Series 2 avoids that problem with luxuriously thick, rectangular earpads that hug your ear more comfortably. In fact, the whole headphone screams luxury, from the black, anodized aluminium earcups to the svelte leather headband. Its 40mm dynamic drivers produce precise and well-controlled sound with each bass thump being particularly distinct, while the highs are well extended. They offer an impressive soundstage for a closed-back headphone and the imaging is spot on to give each instrument its right place in the stage. The B&W P5 Series 2 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a premium, up-market on-ear headphone that looks good and sounds better while being comfortable to boot.
Sennheiser Momentum On-Ear Headphone
One cannot help but agree that the Sennheiser Momentums possess a pleasing aesthetic. Featuring a clean, tidy and minimal build, the Momentums embody the ‘industrial chic’ look to a tee. The stark stainless steel gliders broken by the Alcantara leather (that is also found on the earpads) looks extremely stylish. Its beauty isn’t just skin deep – Sennheiser has also worked their auditory magic here, with the Momentums producing punchy, authoritative bass with a nicely detailed high end that makes all genres of music sound great. To further cement its place as a headphone you wear everywhere, the removable cable comes with an inline microphone and remote for you to leave your phone in your pocket as you rock these around the city. If you need your headphones to make a fashion statement without compromising on audio quality, the Sennheiser Momentums are definitely worth consideration.
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Siddharth Parwatay
Siddharth a.k.a. staticsid is a bigger geek than he'd like to admit. Sometimes even to himself. View Full Profile
