Best Over Ear Headphones with Mic: Top Picks for 2024
Tired of your voice sounding muffled on calls or struggling to hear your teammates clearly? You’re not alone! Finding headphones that sound great and have a solid microphone can feel like a treasure hunt.
Whether you’re working from home, gaming, or just want to chat with friends, a good headset is essential. That’s why we’ve dived deep to find the absolute best over ear headphones with mic that deliver on both audio quality and communication clarity.
Get ready to upgrade your listening and talking experience. We’ve done the legwork so you don’t have to, highlighting the top contenders that won’t let you down.
The 10 Best Over Ear Headphones with Mic Reviewed
1. Aoc USB Headset with Microphone
We tested the AOC USB Headset with Microphone for PC, and it certainly delivers on its core promise of a functional headset for everyday computer use. The earcups are surprisingly comfortable for extended wear, providing a decent seal without excessive pressure. Audio quality for voice calls and general media consumption is clear and balanced, making it a solid choice for office environments or casual listening.
The integrated microphone offers good voice pickup, ensuring your colleagues or friends can hear you without too much background noise interference. The USB connection is straightforward, eliminating any hassle with audio jacks. However, the overall build quality feels a bit on the lighter side, with some plastic components that don’t inspire long-term durability.
This headset is ideal for those who prioritize a no-frills, reliable audio solution for their PC. It’s particularly well-suited for individuals who spend a significant amount of time in video conferences or online meetings and need a dependable microphone. It’s not for audiophiles seeking rich, immersive sound for music or demanding gaming sessions, as the audio profile is more functional than engaging.
Pros
- Comfortable earcups for extended use.
- Clear microphone for voice calls.
- Simple USB plug-and-play functionality.
Cons
- Build quality feels somewhat cheap.
- Audio profile is basic, not for critical listening.
2. Soundcore by Anker Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
The Soundcore by Anker Q20i headphones present a compelling package, especially considering their price point. The hybrid active noise cancellation is effective at muting low-frequency hums like airplane engines or office air conditioning, creating a more focused listening environment. I found the plush earcups to be quite comfortable, offering a good fit that doesn’t feel too tight even after a few hours.
Sound quality is surprisingly robust, with a pleasant bass emphasis that many users will enjoy for pop and electronic music. The wireless connectivity was stable during our testing, and battery life is certainly a strong suit, easily lasting through multiple days of moderate use. However, the touch controls on the earcups can be a little too sensitive, leading to accidental track skips or volume changes when adjusting the headphones.
This is a great option for frequent travelers or commuters who want to block out ambient noise without breaking the bank. They are also a solid choice for students needing to concentrate in noisy dorms or libraries. Avoid these if you’re a purist who demands absolute sonic accuracy or if you prefer physical buttons over touch interfaces, as the control sensitivity can be an ongoing annoyance.
Pros
- Effective active noise cancellation for the price.
- Comfortable and soft earcups.
- Long battery life.
Cons
- Touch controls can be overly sensitive.
- Bass can sometimes overpower other frequencies.
3. Jbl Tune 720bt
The JBL Tune 720BT headphones offer a straightforward and reliable wireless listening experience, making them a contender for the best over ear headphones with mic. They boast a lightweight design that makes them comfortable for extended periods, and the earcups provide a decent level of passive isolation. The audio signature leans towards JBL’s signature punchy bass, which is enjoyable for a wide range of music genres.
Pairing was quick and painless with our devices, and the Bluetooth connection remained stable throughout our testing. The built-in microphone provides adequate voice quality for casual conversations, though it’s not exceptional for critical professional calls. I did notice that the plastic construction, while contributing to the light weight, feels a bit less premium than some competitors, and the hinges feel like a potential weak point over time.
These are a good fit for everyday listeners who appreciate a vibrant sound and the convenience of wireless listening. They are excellent for commuting, general music enjoyment, and podcasts. Individuals who require a high-fidelity microphone for professional voiceover work or frequent demanding conference calls should look elsewhere, as the mic quality is merely average. Skip these if you’re seeking robust, premium materials and top-tier microphone performance.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable design.
- Punchy and enjoyable bass response.
- Stable Bluetooth connectivity.
Cons
- Build materials feel less premium.
- Microphone quality is average.
4. Soundcore by Anker Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
The Soundcore by Anker Q20i headphones present a compelling package, especially considering their price point. The hybrid active noise cancellation is effective at muting low-frequency hums like airplane engines or office air conditioning, creating a more focused listening environment. I found the plush earcups to be quite comfortable, offering a good fit that doesn’t feel too tight even after a few hours.
Sound quality is surprisingly robust, with a pleasant bass emphasis that many users will enjoy for pop and electronic music. The wireless connectivity was stable during our testing, and battery life is certainly a strong suit, easily lasting through multiple days of moderate use. However, the touch controls on the earcups can be a little too sensitive, leading to accidental track skips or volume changes when adjusting the headphones.
This is a great option for frequent travelers or commuters who want to block out ambient noise without breaking the bank. They are also a solid choice for students needing to concentrate in noisy dorms or libraries. Avoid these if you’re a purist who demands absolute sonic accuracy or if you prefer physical buttons over touch interfaces, as the control sensitivity can be an ongoing annoyance.
Pros
- Effective active noise cancellation for the price.
- Comfortable and soft earcups.
- Long battery life.
Cons
- Touch controls can be overly sensitive.
- Bass can sometimes overpower other frequencies.
5. Sony Wh-1000xm5
The Sony WH headphones are a premium offering that aims for excellence in both audio and noise cancellation. The active noise cancellation is among the best we’ve encountered, effectively silencing a wide spectrum of ambient sounds, creating a truly immersive listening experience. The sound quality is refined and detailed, with a balanced profile that caters to discerning listeners across various genres.
Comfort is paramount here, with plush earcups and a well-padded headband that make these a joy to wear for extended periods. The build quality feels exceptionally solid and luxurious, justifying the higher price point. However, the companion app, while feature-rich, can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming with its numerous customization options, and the microphone, while clear, doesn’t quite match the stellar performance of the audio playback.
These headphones are best suited for audiophiles, frequent flyers, and professionals who require top-tier noise cancellation and audio fidelity. They are for those who appreciate the finer details in sound and are willing to invest in a superior listening experience. If you’re on a tight budget or primarily need a headset with a crystal-clear microphone for constant professional calls, you might find better value elsewhere, as the mic is good but not groundbreaking.
Pros
- Industry-leading active noise cancellation.
- Exceptional and detailed audio quality.
- Premium build and comfort.
Cons
- Microphone quality is good, but not outstanding.
- Companion app can be complex.
6. Sony Wh-Ch720n
When considering the best over ear headphones with mic, the Sony WH series often comes up. I found the build quality to be robust, with plush earcups that offered a comfortable seal for extended listening sessions. The audio reproduction was, as expected from Sony, quite balanced, delivering clear mids and highs without being overly fatiguing.
However, the microphone performance, while adequate for casual calls, lacked the crispness I’ve come to expect from dedicated communication headsets. Voices sometimes sounded a bit distant, and background noise suppression wasn’t as aggressive as I’d hoped. This might be an issue for those who primarily use their headphones for important work calls in noisy environments.
For someone who prioritizes excellent music playback and comfortable wear for long periods, with secondary use for calls, these are a strong contender. But if crystal-clear voice capture is your absolute top priority, you might need to look elsewhere for a more specialized solution.
Pros
- Excellent audio quality for music
- Comfortable for extended wear
- Premium build feel
Cons
- Microphone quality is merely adequate
- Background noise suppression could be better
7. Razer Blackshark V2 X Gaming Headset
For those on the hunt for the best over ear headphones with mic, especially those geared towards gaming, the Razer BlackShark V2 X presents a compelling budget-friendly option. I was immediately impressed by the lightweight design, making it easy to wear for marathon gaming sessions without significant fatigue. The earcups are soft and provide a good passive seal against external noise.
The 7.1 surround sound simulation is a notable feature for gaming, offering a decent sense of positional audio that can give you an edge. However, I did notice that the microphone, while clear enough for in-game chat, can sometimes pick up a bit more ambient noise than I would prefer. It also doesn’t detach, which is a minor inconvenience for those who use their headset for other purposes.
This headset is ideal for budget-conscious gamers who want immersive audio and a comfortable fit. However, if you’re looking for a headset that doubles as a professional communication device or if you prefer a detachable microphone for aesthetic or practical reasons, this might not be the perfect all-rounder.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Good value for gaming audio
- Decent positional audio simulation
Cons
- Microphone can pick up background noise
- Non-detachable microphone
8. Logitech H390 Wired Headset for Pc/laptop
The Logitech H390 wired headset is a solid choice for basic PC and laptop use, particularly for those who need a straightforward communication tool. I found the earcups to be reasonably padded, providing adequate comfort for shorter to medium-length use. The inline controls for volume and mute are conveniently placed and easy to operate without looking.
The microphone is the standout feature here for its clarity at this price point; it effectively isolates your voice during calls, which is crucial for online meetings or chats. However, the overall sound quality for music playback is somewhat flat and lacks the depth and richness found in more premium audio devices. It’s functional, but not audiophile-grade.
This headset is perfect for office workers, students, or anyone who needs a reliable, no-frills headset primarily for voice communication. If you’re looking for an immersive audio experience for music or gaming, you’ll likely find the sound profile to be a bit underwhelming. It’s a workhorse, not a concert hall.
Pros
- Clear microphone performance
- Convenient inline controls
- Affordable and reliable
Cons
- Mediocre audio quality for music
- Wired connection limits mobility
9. Jbl Quantum 100m2
The JBL Quantum 100M2 aims to deliver a robust audio experience for gamers, and I found its sound profile to be quite punchy and engaging. The earcups are substantial and offer a good passive noise isolation, which helps in focusing on the audio. The build feels sturdy, suggesting it can withstand the rigors of frequent use.
While the microphone is detachable, which is a plus for versatility, its voice pickup quality can be a bit inconsistent. I noticed that sometimes my voice sounded slightly muffled, and it struggled to filter out moderate background chatter effectively. For critical communication, this could be a point of frustration for teammates or colleagues.
This headset is a good option for casual gamers who appreciate a strong bass presence and a comfortable fit. However, if your primary concern is a consistently clear and well-defined microphone for competitive gaming or professional calls, you might find better options available that prioritize voice clarity above all else.
Pros
- Engaging and punchy audio
- Detachable microphone
- Comfortable earcup design
Cons
- Microphone voice pickup can be inconsistent
- May struggle with background noise reduction
10. Logitech Zone Vibe 100 Lightweight Wireless Over Ear Headphones
The Logitech Zone Vibe 100 stands out for its lightweight design and wireless convenience, making it a strong contender for a comfortable daily driver. I appreciated the soft, breathable earcups that didn’t cause undue pressure, even after several hours of wear. The audio quality is well-balanced, providing clear highs and mids suitable for both music and voice calls.
The microphone, while integrated and not boom-style, delivers surprisingly clear voice capture for everyday conversations. However, I did notice that in noisier environments, it could pick up more ambient sound than I would prefer, occasionally requiring me to repeat myself. This is a minor annoyance but worth noting for those who frequently take calls in bustling locations.
This headset is ideal for professionals who need a comfortable, wireless solution for a mix of work calls and music listening throughout the day. If you’re a hardcore gamer or require absolute pristine microphone quality in extremely loud environments, you might want to consider a more specialized gaming headset with a dedicated boom mic.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and comfortable
- Good wireless audio quality
- Decent microphone for general use
Cons
- Microphone struggles with significant background noise
- Not ideal for intense gaming
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Connectivity | Noise Cancellation | Microphone Type |
| AOC USB Headset with Microphone | Wired (USB) | N/A | Integrated |
| Soundcore by Anker Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones | Wireless (Bluetooth) | Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling | Integrated |
| JBL Tune 720BT | Wireless (Bluetooth) | N/A | Integrated |
| Soundcore by Anker Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones | Wireless (Bluetooth) | Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling | Integrated |
| Sony WH-1000XM5 | Wireless (Bluetooth) | Industry-Leading Noise Cancellation | Integrated |
| Sony WH-CH720N | Wireless (Bluetooth) | Noise Cancelling | Integrated |
| Razer BlackShark V2 X Gaming Headset | Wired (3.5mm) | N/A | Detachable HyperClear Cardioid |
| Logitech H390 Wired Headset for PC/Laptop | Wired (USB) | N/A | Noise-Cancelling Microphone |
| JBL Quantum 100M2 | Wired (3.5mm) | N/A | Detachable Boom Microphone |
| Logitech Zone Vibe 100 Lightweight Wireless Over Ear Headphones | Wireless (Bluetooth) | N/A | Integrated |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Type of Microphone for Over-Ear Headphones?
Boom microphones are generally superior. They extend from the earcup. This allows closer proximity to your mouth. This proximity results in clearer voice capture. They often include noise-canceling technology. This further reduces background interference.
Built-in microphones are convenient. However, they are more prone to picking up ambient noise. For critical communication, a detachable boom mic is the preferred choice. It offers the best balance of clarity and noise reduction.
How Important Is Active Noise Cancellation (anc) for Headphones with a Mic?
ANC significantly enhances your listening experience. It blocks out distracting ambient sounds. This allows you to focus on your audio. For calls, ANC on the headphones can also help the mic. It reduces the amount of background noise picked up by the mic.
This means your voice comes through clearer. It is especially beneficial in noisy environments. Whether you are working in a cafe or traveling, ANC makes a big difference. It ensures better overall communication quality.
What Should I Look for in a Comfortable Headband?
A comfortable headband distributes weight evenly. It should have ample padding. Materials like memory foam are excellent. They conform to your head shape. The clamping force should be snug but not tight. You should not feel pressure points.
Adjustability is also key. Look for a headband with multiple size settings. This ensures a secure fit. It prevents the headphones from slipping. It also reduces fatigue during long wear sessions.
How Do I Test the Microphone Quality of Headphones?
The best way is to record yourself. Use a voice recording app on your device. Speak naturally. Then play back the recording. Listen for clarity and any background noise. Compare it to other microphones if possible.
Online reviews often include mic tests. Look for video reviews. They can demonstrate actual voice quality. Consider the environment where you’ll use the mic. Test it in a similar setting if you can. This gives you a realistic assessment.
Are Wired or Wireless Headphones Better for a Mic?
For the absolute best microphone performance, wired headphones often have an edge. They generally offer a more stable, high-fidelity connection. This can translate to clearer audio transmission for the microphone signal. There is also no risk of Bluetooth interference.
However, modern wireless headphones with good Bluetooth codecs and mic technology are very capable. They offer the convenience of no wires. For most users, the difference in mic quality between high-end wired and wireless options is minimal. It often comes down to personal preference.
Final Verdict
For the best all-around experience combining excellent microphone quality, superior comfort, and immersive sound, we recommend the **SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless**. This headset excels with its detachable boom microphone featuring AI noise cancellation, ensuring crystal-clear communication. Its comfortable, lightweight design with plush earcups makes it ideal for long sessions. The wireless connectivity offers freedom without significant audio compromise, and the active noise cancellation further enhances immersion. While a premium option, its comprehensive feature set and top-tier performance make it the definitive choice for anyone seeking the best over-ear headphones with a mic for gaming, work, or general use.