Best Headphones For Ear Health in 2023 (Reviewed)

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No doubt that many things we buy nowadays are not that nice to us or our well-being. That’s the case with earbuds or headphones. Not always do our ears enjoy the presence of outer objects such as earbuds or headphones, because these items simply are an enemy to our eardrums, and not only.

The outer part of our ears suffer way too much, as well, and that’s just as a result of our poor decisions to buy non-qualitative items for music listening because let’s be honest we focus more on the price and we buy things based on their monetary value, rather than based on their qualities.

We tend to choose low-quality headphones or earbuds and then we complain that we are having problems with our hearing or that our ears hurt after we take off those headphones or earbuds.

Therefore, I calculated that it would be reasonable if I write an article about the best headphones for healthy ears, and here we are. Enjoy!

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
The Best Overall 
Sony WH-1000XM4

Sony WH-1000XM4

9.7
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Unrivaled sound quality
V-Moda Crossfade M-100

V-Moda Crossfade M-100

8.6
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The Bass Boost
Sennheiser RS 175 RF

Sennheiser RS 175 RF

8.5
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Most affordable
Soundcore Life Q30

Soundcore Life Q30

8.8
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Extreme High Quality 
Sony MDR-7506

Sony MDR-7506

8.6
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The modern ones 
Bose 700

Bose 700

8.2
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Audiophile lover 
Audio-Technica ATH-M50X

Audio-Technica ATH-M50X

8
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Key Takeaways

  • Sony WH-1000XM4 seems a fantastic option for everyone who cares about ear health.
  • Don’t let the volume level pass above 80% if you want to protect your ears fully.
  • The safest way to use headphones is to apply the 60/60 rule. That means 60% volume for 60 minutes per day.

Top 7 Best Headphones For Healthy Ears

7. V-Moda Crossfade M-100 – Most Versatile Use

M-100 is the company’s iconic audio piece that offers versatile use for audiophiles, gamers, musicians, casual users, and DJs. Offering black and white color varieties, Crossfade M-100 is durable enough to use for long years. The headphones give you the option to customize the fabric of the metal plates to the color you like. Travelers will adore the compact and folding design with the carrying case that comes with it.

The sound quality is superior but heavy in the bass production. I can confidently say the mid-ranges and vocals sounds are fantastic. A 3D soundstage is present for live performances as well. For casual users, the immersive sound is not bothering due to minimizing sound leakage. Sadly, there’s no noise cancellation technology, but isolation is present. It grips noises, so you don’t have to increase the volume and damage your ears.

Why Should You Buy It?

 Crossfade M-100 by V-Moda raises a bar so high in sound quality, noise isolation, and durability. Also, great comfort is accompanied by a foldable design with a carrying case.

Wearing StyleClosed-back
Weigh9.9 oz
Frequency response5 – 30,000Hz
Sensitivity103 dB
Battery Run TimeWired Connectivity
Noise CancellationNoise Isolation

Pros

  • Extreme comfort
  • Superior sound
  • Minimal sound leakage
  • Decent noise isolation
  • Portable and light

Cons

  • Not ideal for people with glasses

6. Sennheiser RS 175 RF – Best For Movies

Sennheiser approves that RS 175 RF is suitable for everyone who enjoys music, movies, and TV shows in peace. The large earcups and soft cushions made around the ear design are ergonomic. It can fit any head size, and the adjustable headband provides long hours of use without tightening your head.

It offers the next level of entertainment with surround sound technology so that you can enjoy cinema-quality sounds. The headphones offer two flat surround sound modes with the bass boost mode. There’s no equalization to play around with the sound settings. Nonetheless, these headphones feature a closed style built which isolates your ears to block undesired noises using physical barriers. You can lower the volume and decrease the possible hearing loss over time.

Sennheiser RS 175 RF works cord free. The battery run time is 24 hours, allowing you a full day of pure joy times. The downside is 8 hours of slow charging time, but the wireless range is 100 feet.

Why Should You Buy It?

If you are into the entertainment world, the cinema sound quality will blow your mind. It isolates unnecessary noises perfectly to provide peaceful times. The battery life will go a couple of days without charging.

Wearing StyleClosed-back
Weigh10.9 oz.
Frequency response17 – 22,000 Hz
Sensitivity114 dB
Battery Run Time24 hours
Noise CancellationNoise Isolation

Pros

  • Great bass
  • Perfect sound isolation
  • Ideal for movies

Cons

  • Slow charging time

5. Soundcore Life Q30 – Best Value

Although it belongs to the cost-effective price range, the used materials like mid-shiny plastic and super soft faux leather say otherwise. It gives a fancy vibe. Besides, black, blue, and pink options are available to show your personal style.

Life Q30 includes advanced Noise Cancellation Technology. The company advertises “Music on, Distraction off,” and I couldn’t agree more. Dual noise detecting microphone separates low noises and blocks to 95%. Outdoor noises such as loud engines, wind, and too-noisy environments are not a problem. The quiet music times will relax your ears and help you increase focus during productivity. The overall sound profile is crisp trebles and thumping bass. Plus, the dedicated app can customize sound according to your liking.

The superior performance continues with battery life as well. Anker offers 60 hours of total playtime. However, keep in mind that battery life depends on the used features like ANC. 5-minute quick charge gives extra 4 hours of playtime

Why Should You Buy It?

Life Q30 is surprisingly feature-packed, considering the price. It includes an active noise cancellation feature, ambient sound modes, and, most importantly, the graphic EQ. Great value for the money.

Wearing StyleClosed-back
Weigh9.3 oz
Frequency response16Hz – 40 kHz
Sensitivity103.37 dB
Battery Run Time60H (ANC off), 40H (ANC on)
Noise CancellationDigital Hybrid ANC Multi-Mode Noise Cancellation

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Out of the world noise cancellation technology
  • Long-lasting battery life
  • Ergonomic
  • Portable

Cons

  • Ears get hot when in prolonged use

4. Sony MDR-7506 – Best Sound Quality 

The premium look is all over the design. The ergonomic and rugged body construction has unobtrusive built quality. They are great for meditation sessions and care about your health. What more could you possibly ask? Plus, the headphones are foldable to accompany your adventurous journeys.  

In case you ever hear the name Sony in any audio technology, don’t question the sound quality. It professionally handles wide frequency ranges. The large diaphragm ensures crystal-clear high notes and mid ranges.

The accuracy in sound production is taken for granted because it’s Sony. It may not have the ANC feature, but the noise isolation works flawlessly due to the closed-back design. Minimal sound leakage won’t allow you to bother anyone near you. Enjoy the peaceful and quiet times. The only downside that may bother you is using wired connectivity.

Why Should You Buy It?

It reduces external noises to a great extent and cares about your ear’s health. The superior sound quality is ensured at an affordable price range. You should just go for it.

Wearing StyleClosed-back
Weigh8.1 oz.
Frequency response10-20kHz
Sensitivity106 dB
Battery Run TimeWired
Noise CancellationNoise Isolation

Pros

  • Premium built
  • Fancy Design
  • Superior sound quality
  • Great noise isolation

Cons

  • none

3. Bose 700 – Best Noise Cancellation

The elegance drips all over the design. With a lightweight body and 90 degrees rotatable earcups, comfort is in the upper hand. It may not fold, but a stainless headband is adjustable to fit perfectly any head size. You can choose from black and white colors according to your preference.

Bose 700 is unrivaled when it comes to Active Noise Cancellation Technology. Use the 700 headphones for music or the office because Bose cares about ear health. It impressively manages to block the irrelevant noises that surround you. Also, Bose offers a superior microphone system that adapts to noisy and windy ambient, so you can make crystal clear calls. The sound quality overall is pleasant, and I appreciate the EQ setting’s involvement. Now, you can adjust the sounds depending on your mood swings. Featuring virtual assistants, it allows easy, hands-free navigation.

The battery run time holds traditional values of 20 hours of playtime. Honestly, at this price, I would expect something extraordinary. However, depending on how many features are on, it will go a few days without charging.  

Why Should You Buy It?

Ear health is guaranteed by ANC technology and EQ settings in the app. Both eliminate background noises and allow sound adjustment to the sound. The ergonomic design is there for comfortable long sessions. The headphones include everything you can ask for in an audio device.

Wearing StyleClosed-back
Weigh8.8 oz.
Frequency response20-300Hz
Sensitivity100 dB
Battery Run Time20 hours
Noise CancellationActive Noise Cancellation

Pros

  • Great Design                            
  • Fantastic ANC
  • Feature-packed
  • Crystal clear microphone

Cons

  • Mediocre battery life
  • Expensive

2. Audio-Technica ATH-M50X – Best For Audiophiles 

If you are an audiophile person but still care about ear health, ATH-M50X is the ideal choice. What sets Audio-Technica apart from most headphones on the market is the design. Audio-Technica ATH-M50X comes in metallic orange, blue, white, and gunmetal variation beside black. It is built like a rocket and ensures lifetime use. 

The contoured ear cups with an adjustable headband seal your ears without tightening. The foldable design makes portability much more manageable so you can take it everywhere.

ATH-M50X’s sound quality is exceptional. After all, it is made for audiophiles. The extended frequency range can handle instruments and vocals perfectly. The 3D illusion contributes to having a remarkable experience while watching movies. Music, on the other hand, comes like you are in the middle of a concert. Noise isolation design helps reduce the risk of ear damage—no more volume incensement to avoid the environment. Even at lower volumes, the sound is exceptional, reminding me of audiophiles who care about health.    

If you are an audiophile person but still care about ear health, ATH-M50X is the ideal choice. What sets Audio-Technica apart from most headphones on the market is the design. Audio-Technica ATH-M50X comes in metallic orange, blue, white, and gunmetal variation beside black. It is built like a rocket and ensures lifetime use. 

The contoured ear cups with an adjustable headband seal your ears without tightening. The foldable design makes portability much more manageable so you can take it everywhere.

ATH-M50X’s sound quality is exceptional. After all, it is made for audiophiles. The extended frequency range can handle instruments and vocals perfectly. The 3D illusion contributes to having a remarkable experience while watching movies. Music, on the other hand, comes like you are in the middle of a concert. Noise isolation design helps reduce the risk of ear damage—no more volume incensement to avoid the environment. Even at lower volumes, the sound is exceptional, reminding me of audiophiles who care about health.    

Why Should You Buy It?

If you want a pair of headphones to hear every sound in detail and at audiophile quality, purchase ATH-M50X. Plus, the noise isolation won’t cause any damage in the long run.

Wearing StyleClosed-back
Weigh10 oz.
Frequency response15-20,000 Hz
Sensitivity96 dB
Battery Run TimeWired
Noise CancellationNoise Isolation

Pros

  • Outstanding sound clarity
  • Great noise isolation
  • Undestructive and attractive design

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Long cord

1. Sony WH-1000XM4 – The Best Overall 

Finally, we have reached the leader of the list. Sony just can’t stop producing top-notch quality in every audio equipment. In XM4, you get to taste what long-lasting comfort feels like. Not only lets ears breathe, but thick earpads and headband successfully complete the comfort duty.   

Sony is the pro in Noise Canceling with Dual Noise Sensor technology. Not a single voice is audible when this feature is on. You won’t hear an air conditioner, engines, or wind, let alone higher pitches.

 It’s a handy feature and also protects against ear damage in the long run. The best part, above all, is having everything included. By everything, I mean premium built, wearing detection, effortless control, Noise Cancellation, equalizer, and excellent sound quality.

The battery life is right up there with other features. It gives a juicy 30 hours of playtime. Remember, the battery run time depends on how many elements are actively used.      

Why Should You Buy It?

These headphones consist the rich features. No coincidence I categorized it as best overall because it earns every praise and money you will pay.

Wearing StyleClosed-back
Weigh9 oz
Frequency response4 Hz – 40,000 Hz
Sensitivity105 dB
Battery Run Time30 hours
Noise CancellationIndustry Leading ANC

Pros

  • Full-feature packed
  • Powerful Noise Cancellation
  • Decent battery life

Cons

  • Expensive

Buyer’s Guide: Better Safe than Sorry

I get it’s tempting to increase the volume when your favorite song is on. Put safety first and prioritize these factors I’m about to mention when buying headphones for ear health.

Noise Cancelling Technology

Noise cancelation is the biggest innovation in the headphone industry. This technology works by picking up the external noises from the microphone and blocking the environmental noises. This feature is useful for peace of mind. Loud environments don’t let us enjoy our music or video. For that reason, back then, we used to increase the volume to avoid crowded noises. Now, we have noise cancellation, which does the job without increasing volume.

Customizable Graphic EQ

Many manufacturers have their dedicated app. Some of them offer customizable equalizer settings. It simply leaves room for sound adjustability. You can play around the bass and treble control, so you are changing the sound profile to your liking.

Earpiece Design 

I highly recommend using an over-ear headphone design to get the best comfort. Avoid using open-back designs because they are meant for professionals. Open-back headphones are ideal for high-quality audio files, critical listening, and mixing. Instead, choose the closed-back design; they isolate sounds, so you don’t have to increase the volume. The closed-back style is ideal for everyday listening, office hours, or working out. The earpiece design is important when noise cancellation is not available.

Frequently Asked Questions  

Can Headphones cause Hearing Loss?

World Health Organization stated that to prevent permanent hearing loss, use noise-canceling headphones. Also, keeping the volume down prevents hearing loss to a certain degree.

Is it Safe to Use Headphones?

Yes, it is but partially. Headphones hurt our ears, but with the right headphones, you can decrease the possible damage. For the safest way, apply the 60/60 rule. That means 60% volume within 60 minutes. Most smartphones will alert you when you’ve been listening to music at high-volumes for a long period of time.

What Volume is Ideal for Safe Headphone use?

If you take precautions and protect your ears, keep the volume down. The volume shouldn’t pass above 80%. Take the headphones off if you’re unsure whether the volume is too high. Is the music audible? If it is, then the volume is high.  

A Brief Summary

I literally included everything you need to know regarding ear health. I’m not a healthcare employer by any means, so it took good research to come up with the article. The constant innovation in technology makes it possible to use headphones with pure joy without causing damage to the ears.

Of course, there are rules that we must follow, but ear health is above all. So, in the end, choose your product wisely. Check their design, EQ mode, and noise isolation feature because they are the core of ear-health protection. 

Further Reading

I think I’ve explained everything related to the harm that headphones can do to our ears, and how high volume can cause irreversible damage to our ears, but can you damage the devices, such as speakers by playing them too loud?  

Besides, I have great news, I know I have mentioned briefly in this article if wearing headphones causes hair loss, but I’ve written a whole article about that specific question, so you can give it a read to that article, as well.

But, if you are one of those people that would sacrifice his or her ear health to just listen to music as much as possible, anytime and everywhere, then you can also wear Airpods in the shower, as well, would that be possible?

I also mentioned headaches somewhere in this article, but can headphones really dent your head? You know I got you covered always, so go ahead and give it a read.

Whether you’re looking for information on audio equipment, looking to learn more about how things work in the music field, or looking for reviews of products, we got you covered!

 
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