Listening to podcasts and audiobooks requires headphones that deliver clear vocals, crisp sound, and all-day comfort. Whether you’re enjoying a story or learning something new, the right headphones can elevate your listening experience. Here are the top 10 headphones for podcasts and audiobooks in 2025.
Why Choose Specialised Headphones for Podcasts and Audiobooks?
- Clear Audio: Emphasise vocal clarity for immersive listening.
- Comfortable Fit: Designed for extended listening sessions.
- Durability: Reliable build quality for everyday use.
- Portability: Lightweight and easy to carry.
Podcast and Audiobook Headphones Comparison Table
| Model | Type | Key Features | Estimated Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sony WH-1000XM5 | Over-Ear | Industry-leading ANC, crystal-clear vocals | $349-399 |
| Bose QuietComfort 45 | Over-Ear | Exceptional comfort, balanced sound | $329-379 |
| Jabra Elite 85h | Over-Ear | Smart sound modes, water-resistant | $199-249 |
| Sennheiser HD 560S | Over-Ear | Open-back design, audiophile-grade clarity | $199-229 |
| Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) | In-Ear | Adaptive transparency, seamless Apple pairing | $229-249 |
| Anker Soundcore Life Q30 | Over-Ear | Hybrid ANC, budget-friendly | $79-99 |
| Beats Solo3 Wireless | On-Ear | Apple W1 chip, excellent battery life | $149-179 |
| Shure AONIC 50 | Over-Ear | Studio-quality sound, premium build | $299-349 |
| Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 | Over-Ear | Studio-grade clarity, long battery life | $199-249 |
| Sony WF-1000XM5 | In-Ear | Best-in-class ANC, compact design | $299-349 |
1. Sony WH-1000XM5
- Type: Over-Ear
- Key Features:
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) for immersive listening
- High-quality microphone for calls and voice commands
- Adaptive sound control
- Why Buy?: Perfect for listeners who demand premium sound and noise isolation. View on Amazon
2. Bose QuietComfort 45
- Type: Over-Ear
- Key Features:
- Balanced sound profile with excellent vocal clarity
- Unparalleled comfort for long sessions
- Compact and foldable design
- Why Buy?: A top choice for audiobook enthusiasts who value comfort and performance. View on Amazon
3. Jabra Elite 85h
- Type: Over-Ear
- Key Features:
- Smart sound modes that adapt to your environment
- Water-resistant design for durability
- Why Buy?: Great for users who listen in a variety of settings. View on Amazon
4. Sennheiser HD 560S
- Type: Over-Ear
- Key Features:
- Open-back design for natural sound reproduction
- Lightweight and comfortable for long sessions
- Why Buy?: Perfect for at-home listeners who value audiophile-grade quality. View on Amazon
5. Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)
- Type: In-Ear
- Key Features:
- Adaptive Transparency mode for outdoor listening
- Seamless integration with Apple devices
- Why Buy?: Ideal for Apple users who want portability and premium sound. View on Amazon
6. Anker Soundcore Life Q30
- Type: Over-Ear
- Key Features:
- Hybrid ANC and high-res audio certification
- Long battery life for uninterrupted listening
- Why Buy?: A budget-friendly option with premium features. View on Amazon
7. Beats Solo3 Wireless
- Type: On-Ear
- Key Features:
- Apple W1 chip for fast pairing
- 40-hour battery life
- Why Buy?: Combines style with functionality for everyday use. View on Amazon
8. Shure AONIC 50
- Type: Over-Ear
- Key Features:
- Studio-quality sound with deep bass and clear vocals
- Premium build and comfortable fit
- Why Buy?: Excellent for listeners who demand professional-grade audio. View on Amazon
9. Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2
- Type: Over-Ear
- Key Features:
- Studio-grade sound clarity
- Long-lasting battery life (up to 50 hours)
- Why Buy?: A fantastic choice for audiophiles on the go. View on Amazon
10. Sony WF-1000XM5
- Type: In-Ear
- Key Features:
- Compact design with best-in-class ANC
- Crystal-clear sound and lightweight fit
- Why Buy?: Perfect for portable, high-quality listening experiences. View on Amazon
These headphones combine comfort, clarity, and advanced features to enhance your podcast and audiobook experience. Whether you’re on the go or relaxing at home, there’s a pair here for every listener.