[Reviewed] 8 Best Headphones To Buy Under $400 – Buyer Guide

This masterpiece from Sony, “Sony WH-1000XM3” is worth beginning our list with as it is the renowned undisputed best headset. This fine piece comes with new HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1, which helps in greatly enhancing the great noise cancelling feature.

This is the third generation of Sony’s majestic WH1000 Wireless headphones and according to tests and reviews, these are the best ones yet! Their light weight and the ability of being more comfortable, thanks to the softer cushioning on the thicker part of the headband, makes them the most comfortable and portable ones on the market.

The neatest of the features are the voice controls and the touch sensitive feature. On the other hand the microphone is improved for calls and streaming, a super advantage if you are a Youtuber or a streamer. Along with that, the quick-charge battery allows you a long usage. This headset goes from no charging to full battery in three hours, while for quick usage, a ten minute charge gives you five hours of flawless use.

There is a massive improvement in noise cancelling in this excellent headset along with fantastic Bluetooth sound quality. A rich and weighty bass is delivered, though it not as heavy and overpowering as it was expected.

The WH-1000XM3 headphones are also highly effective at blocking out daily noise like voices and the background sounds you might hear walking through a city. Also, the atmospheric pressure optimizing delivers brilliant sound at high altitude.

Using these WH-1000XM3, you would be able to experience High-Resolution Audio content in exceptional quality, as close as possible to that of a dedicated wired connection.

Key Features:

• Light Weight
• Voice Controls
• Touch Sensitive Features
• Improved Microphone
• Quick Charge Battery and Long Battery Life
• Brilliant Sound at High Altitude

Specifications

• Close-Backed Style
• 2m Cable Length
• Wireless
• Noise Cancelling
• In-Line Remote and Mic
• Connector: 3.5mm, USB-C
• 254g Weight

Final Verdict

Yes, the price is high, but Sony WH-1000XM3 is certainly worth it. They are widely acknowledged as the best noise canceling wireless headphones on the market and are unbeaten.

Want unimaginable listening experience? The MPOW059 is designed just to do that! The MPOW059 is compatible enough to quickly connect with smartphones, tablets, TVs and other Bluetooth devices in the rage of 33 feet. Talking about the durability, the headband the stainless steel slider headband allows you to find the perfect fit and provide excellent durability.

Not just outstandingly durable, the MPOW59 are also easily portable. The foldable design allows it to be easily carried and stored while travelling. The MPOW59 is available in both, Wired and Wireless mode. The Wireless mode comes with 420 mAh Battery. Due to the earpuff being made of memory-protein materials, the headset has to be placed in a dry and cool place, along with the microphone being only able to work in wireless mode.

The well balanced sound gives an outstanding listening experience. The earpads are quite comfortable and are also useful for noise cancelling. Enjoy your music all day long with the long 20-hour battery life. Enjoy hassle-free pairing and reliable transmission with smart devices, thanks to Bluetooth 4.1 Technology. The built-in microphone and control buttons make it easy to pick up the calls, and the built-in microphone even enhances it more!

The sound quality is enjoyable for all kinds of music and can enhance your taste of music.  With all these features in just $29.99-$35, surely, this headset is sure worth it!

Key Features:

• Excellent Durability
• Comes in 2 Modes – Wired and Wireless
• Wireless mode has 420 mAh Battery
• Microphone only works in Wireless
• Noise Cancellation
• 20 Hour Battery Life
• Hassle Free Pairing
• Reliable Transmission
• Bluetooth 4.1 Version/Technology
• Built-in Microphone
• Control Buttons
• Low Price

Specifications

• Bluetooth Version: 4.1
• Range: 33 feet (10 meters)
• Talking Time: Around 15 hours
• Playback Time: Around 13 hours
• Charging Time: 4 hours
• Charging Voltage: 5V

Final Verdict

With all its amazing features MPOW059 Bluetooth definitely beats all others for the price and is surely worth it. It has so much to offer in its price that is impressive and makes it a good casual and adventure headphone.

The Bose QuietComfort 35 II is just one more successful product by Bose, but some certain features make it even better than some others.

 This model comes with three levels of Noise Cancellation for better listening experience. No noise to disturb you and you can go deeper into your music, thanks to the Bose QuietComfort 35 II. This headset is also compatible with the Bose Connect App, which helps you adjust the level of noise cancellation, enable music sharing, manage Bluetooth connections, and access software updates. The Multi-Function button the headset allows you to easily access your device’s virtual assistant, such as Siri in iOS, Google Assistant in Android and Cortana in Windows 10. A noise-rejecting dual-mic system gives you clear phone calls, even in noisy environments.

A rechargeable lithium-ion battery gives you up to 20 hours of wireless play time. Or use the included audio cable for up to 40 hours in wired mode. The Bluetooth and NFC pairing let you pair the headphones to your device quickly and easily, with voice prompts to walk you through the process. If virtual assistants aren’t for you, use the Action button to adjust levels of world-class noise cancellation among high, low, or off.

That way, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II lets you block out the noise and just hear the music. Press the action button to access Alexa anywhere. Listen to music, podcasts, and more without looking at your phone. Or, if you’re not an Alexa user, use it to adjust among three levels of noise cancellation. Furthermore, you can Expect 20 hours of wireless use on a charge and about 40 hours with the headphone cable.

Key Features:

• Clear Calls
• Multi-Function Button
• Listen All Day
• 20 Hour Battery Life
• Action Button
• Allows you to easily connect with your device’s virtual assistant.
• Three levels of Noise Cancellation
• Bluetooth Wireless and NFC Pairing
• Noise Rejecting Dual Microphones
• 20 Hour of Wireless Use and 40 Hours with Headphone Cable

Specifications:

• Active Noise Cancellation
• Design: Over-Ear
• Foldable
• Dual Microphone
• Charging Port: Micro USB
• Charging Cable Length: 30.48 cm
• LED Indicator
• Weight: 235.31g

Final Verdict

As obvious from the name, the salient feature of the Bose QuietComfort 35 II is the comfort, which makes it great for travelers. But that’s not all. The top-notch Active Noise Cancellation and the sound quality also distinguish it from others and make it a competitive model.

The Sennheiser Momentum Wireless Headphones is also a superb option which could be considered as one of the 8 Best Headphones Under $400. The previous 2 models of the Sennheiser Headphones are easily knocked out by these 3^rd Generation Headphones and now these continue the trend.

These Sennheiser Momentum Wireless are foldable, making them easily portable, so are ideal to use while travelling as they could be easily stored. The Refined style and sound makes them one of the most successful products from Sennheiser. The Sennheiser Momentum Wireless is a winning combination of uncompromised performance, pure minimalistic style and luxurious high-quality materials, such as genuine leather ear cups.

 In addition to aptX, AAC and SBC Bluetooth, the Momentum Wireless support aptX Low Latency, which aims to improve the synchronicity of audio and video content. Furthermore, the built-in VoiceMax microphone allows you to conduct crystal clear conversations.  The Sennheiser Momentum Wireless offers you excellent sound, cutting-edge technology, and a modern design, beneficial to every moment.

The Intuitive Controls are designed to help you in every situation possible. Whether you’re taking a business call, talking to a friend or just hiding in your own personal audio space, the Auto On/Off and Smart Pause features ensure that you’ll never miss a beat.

Active Noise Cancellation and Transparent Hearing functionality allows you to have an unimaginable sound experience, the way you like it. The Active Noise Cancellation feature has three modes to help you adjust it according to the environment around you. The transparent Hearing Functionality allows you to enter the world of music while doing your work or continuing whatever you were doing.

All the features of the Sennheiser Momentum Wireless make it worth it, although the battery life is only 17 hours, while The Sony above offered 30 hours of usage.

Key Features

• Foldable – Easily Portable
• Minimalistic and Modern Style
• Genuine Leather Cups
• Supports aptX Low Latency
• Built-in VoiceMax Microphone and Smart Pause Features
• Transparent Hearing Functionality

 Specifications

• Bluetooth
• Noise-cancelling
• 22 Hour Battery Life
• Charging: USB-C
• Built-in mic and controls
• Frequency Response: 16Hz
• Sensitivity: -44 dBV
• 600 mAh Power Capacity

Final Verdict

The Sennheiser Momentum Wireless Headphones seem to be the ideal businessman’s headphones, with all arrangements for travel and calls, without compromising comfort and luxury. So it’s an excellent pick if you want a portable feature-packed headphone that is extremely intuitive.

The PX7 are the latest flagship noise-cancelling headphones from the British manufacturer Bowers & Wilkins and could be considered as competition for Bose. There are some significant features which bring them to this level.

The Unique and Special Design of the headphones consists of single-arm earcup mounts, fabric covers and large brushed metal trims. Despite having a weight of 310g and being large over-ear headphones, they still manage to sit comfortably and firmly on your ears thanks to the Plush Cushions in the big earcups.

The left earcup has a multi-function button that controls Noise Cancelling, which allows you to cycle between automatic, low, high and turn the noise cancelling off. You can also press and hold the multi-function button, which allows you to activate an excellent, customizable ambient mode for listening out for announcements. Coming towards the right earcup, it consists of a USB-C Charging Port, a 3.5mm analogue socket along with three buttons for controlling payback, track skip and volume and also a sliding switch to turn the headphones on or off. The bonus is that the earcups have presence censors, which pause the music for you when you take your headphones off and resume it when you get them on.

The well controlled bass, energetic mids and sparkling highs of the B&W PX7 surely makes it the best in terms of sound.  Just one-third of your phone’s volume and you will experience the juiciest bass you would have ever heard! The 30 Hour Battery Life makes it more than enough in any case, even if you are commuting or on a long flight. A quick 15 minute charge can deliver five hours of playback!

Key Features:

• Large Over-Ear Headphones
• Multi-Function Button – Allows to control Noise Cancellation.
• Ambient Mode – Allows you to listen to announcements and adjust sound accordingly
• Presence Censors
• Bluetooth Wireless Technology
• Foldable

Specifications:

• Bluetooth
• Noise-cancelling
• 30 Hour Battery Life
• Charging: USB-C
• Built-in mic and controls: Yes
• 302g-310g Weight
• 6 speakers
• 2 Mics

Final Verdict

As quite obvious, the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 brings in the next generation of high-tech headphones and combines style with technology, while also maintains a multi-purpose status. The durability and firmness means they are fit for jogging and workout, while the comfort is all set to make your relax time melodious.

Whatever you desire and require, The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones can provide.

 You can have instant access to your voice assistant means these smart headphones let you keep your head up to the world. The Bose Noise Cancelling 700 allows you to take a call with the most powerful microphone system for voice pickup.  On a call and the other person can’t hear you because of background noise? No problem, an unrivaled four-microphone system built into Bose Headphones 700 picks up and isolates your voice while cancelling the noise around you and gives the most of its smart noise cancelling.

 What’s more is that the charging case also protects your headphones along with providing up to two full charges, so you can enjoy up to 40 additional hours of listening time.

 The Comfortable Earcups are built for all day listening as they’re made from synthetic protein leather, are soft and durable.  The sound is bold, clear and upfront. Though, the headphones have a bit less punch and are too light, still, the excellent noise cancelling can surely cancel these cons out too!

 The fantastic Noise Cancelling Features of the Bose Noise Cancelling 700 are extremely beneficial for travelers and students. If you like to block out the sounds of planes and trains, these have fantastic active noise cancelling. In the case of students, while they’re expensive, the ANC is top-notch. If you’re tired of the noisy environment in your library, the magical noise cancellation feature does its job and fulfills its purpose with absolute perfection.

Key Features:

• Charging Case Provided – Also used for protection of Headphones
• The Case provides up to 2 full charges – 40 hours of additional listening time
• Instant access to Voice Assistant
• Most powerful Unrivaled Four-Microphone System
• Bold, Powerful, Clear and upfront Sound
• Beneficial for Travelers and Students

Specifications:

• Closed-backed Style
• Cable length: 1.2m, USB cable also included
• Wireless
• Noise-cancelling
• Connector: 3.5mm

Weight: 254g

Final Verdict

Bose made a great comeback to the top lists in the market and indeed, the Bose Noise Cancelling 700 are a pair of headphones not only great for Bose fans but also to others who it easily impresses with its smart features and particularly the excellent sound quality and noise cancellation for calls. So if any of that is vital to you, go for this.

With many magical and useful features, the Cowin E7 has all the rights to be in our Top 8 Best Headphones list!

 The Cowin E7 comes with the brilliant Active Noise Cancellation feature. This technology helps you get cut off from all the noises near you. The Cowin E7 can also be used in both Wired and Wireless modes. You can use the 3.5mm provided cable to use the headphones in wired mode and for the Wireless mode, just turn the Bluetooth function on.

 You can also use the NFC (Near Field Communication) System for instant pairing. Talking about the Battery Life, The Cowin E7 can provide a fruitful 1 hour of playback time after a quick 10 minute charge. On the other hand, a full charge provides a huge 30 hour playback time, which makes the Headphones great in the case of battery life, thanks to the powerful built in 750 mAh battery.

 The Cowin E7 are decently stylish even though some users might find its design a bit bulky. Furthermore, the glossy design and finish picks up visible fingerprints and smudges. Though, the Cowin E7 can surely take you into a different world with its unimaginable sound quality. Not only music, but you are also allowed to enjoy videos and music, thanks to the 2 modes: Significant Noise Reduction and Advanced Noise Reduction. The Significant Noise Reduction allows you not to be disturbed by low noises when you usually hear while travelling. The Advanced Noise Reduction helps you in more noisy cases, helping you get rid of extreme noise such as the noise of busy traffic or in the office.

 The Cowin E7 allows you to attend calls easily, thanks to the high quality built-in microphone. The earcups are durable, lightweight and comfortable, allowing you to wear it all day long.

Key Features:

• Wired And Wireless Modes
• 5mm Provided Cable
• NFC (Near Field Communication) System
• Great Battery Life – 750 mAh built-in Battery.
• Decent Style
• Unimaginable Sound Quality
• 2 Noise Cancellation Modes – Significant Noise Reduction and Advanced Noise Reduction.
• Allows you to easily attend calls
• Durable, Lightweight and Comfortable Earcups.

Specifications:

• Frequency: 20Hz-20kHz
• Power supply: Lithium battery or Micro USB cable
• Dimensions: 6.5″H x 3.6″L x 7.1″W
• Professional Active Noise Cancelling Technology
• Proprietary 40mm large-aperture drivers
• High-quality built-in microphone and NFC technology
• 90° swiveling ear cups
• Battery life: 30 hours per charge (in Bluetooth mode)

Final Verdict

The Cowin E7 is a great budget pick and offers all that it can in the price. It is good for the casual listener, who does not really emphasize at THE best audio quality, but is good with a good normal-standard headphone.

Last but not the least, our list considers Audio-Technica ATH-M50 x BT in the Top 8 Best Headphones under $400. This pair is a treat to your ears as it serves a pure and professional sound performance. The ATH-M50 x BT are used and praised by studio engineers, live engineers and pro audio reviewers due to its Critically Acclaimed Sonic Performance.

 The ATH-M50x have proprietary 45mm large aperture drivers with rare-earth magnets, giving exceptional clarity throughout an extended frequency range with a deep accurate bass response.

 The professional grade earband and headband material gives you extra unimaginable comfort even after long use, along with excellent noise cancellation.  The 90° swiveling earcup is great for one ear listening, and the collapsible design makes it easily portable. Single side detachable cable allows in the field cable changing, with three different cables included.

 If you are looking for some background music while working in the office, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT is a good option. They don’t leak too much at moderate volumes and can reduce an average amount of ambient chatter. Their long battery life will last you a few work days without a problem and will be comfortable for long listening sessions.

However, there is a major con to be noted.  The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT headphones are not designed for sports, which means you cannot wear them while playing or during your morning jog as they aren’t stable on the head. During sports and high-intensity activities, they will slip off your ears. This is the reason they are suggested for casual listening, and since they have a wireless design, you don’t have to worry about a cable getting stuck on something and snagging the headphones off your head.

Key Features:

• Exceptional Isolation
• Detachable Cables
• Collapsible/Foldable Design
• Sonic Performance
• Extra Comfortable
• Excellent Noise Cancellation
• 90° Swiveling Earcups
• Long Battery Life
• Suggested for Casual Listening

Specifications:

• Closed Back Dynamic Type
• 45mm Driver Diameter
• 15 – 28,000 Hz Frequency Response
• 1,600 mW @ 1KHz Input Power
• 99 dB Sensitivity
• 285g Weight

Final Verdict

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT have surely got all a good wireless Bluetooth headphone might need, from great sound to comfort, and from excellent noise cancellation to the option of wired listening. Unless you are looking for a good funky design with these features, these headphones are a great bid.