If you’re looking for headphones that can deliver excellent noise isolation, closed-back headphones are a popular choice. Unlike open back headphones, which allow sound to leak in and out, closed back headphones have a sealed design that blocks ambient noise and keeps your music in.
In this guide, we’ll explore the world of the best closed back headphones for noise isolation and provide the information you need to choose the best pair for your needs. First, let’s define closed-back headphones and why noise isolation is important for headphones.
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Definition of closed-back headphones
Closed-back headphones have a sealed earcup design; This means that the back of the earcups is closed off, creating an acoustic seal that isolates the sound from the environment. Closed back headphones are often preferred for listening in noisy environments. They block out external sounds and prevent sound from leaking out to disturb those around you.
Importance of noise isolation in headphones
Noise isolation is crucial in headphone performance, especially if you’re looking to use them in loud or busy environments. The ability to block out external sounds allows you to enjoy your music at lower volumes, which can reduce the risk of hearing damage.
Additionally, noise isolation can improve the clarity and detail of the audio, as the music is not competing with background noise. Whether you’re a musician looking to record in a noisy studio, a commuter trying to drown out the sound of the subway, or a gamer trying to focus on your gameplay, closed-back headphones with good noise isolation can help you achieve your goals.
How Do Closed-Back Headphones Work?
Closed-back headphones use a sealed earcup design to block out external sounds and prevent audio from leaking. Let’s take a closer look at how this works.
Overview of best closed back headphone design
Closed-back headphones are designed with a solid or partially solid earcup surrounding the speaker drivers. This design creates an acoustic seal that keeps sound from escaping and external noise from entering. The seal can be achieved through various materials and construction methods, such as foam padding, leather, or plastic. The headband and ear cushions also play a role in the overall seal, as they help create a snug fit that further blocks out noise.
Noise isolation mechanisms in closed back headphones
The noise isolation mechanisms in closed-back headphones are primarily passive or active. Passive noise isolation is achieved through the physical design of the headphones and the materials used. In contrast, active noise isolation uses advanced technology to eliminate external noise.
Passive noise isolation relies on the acoustic seal of the headphones to block out external noise. The more effective the seal, the better the noise isolation. Some closed back headphones use specialized padding or foam to create a better seal, while others use ear cups designed to fit tightly around the ears.
On the other hand, active noise isolation uses technology to cancel out external noise. These headphones have microphones that pick up external sounds and generate an opposite sound wave to cancel them out. This technology is most commonly known as active noise cancellation (ANC). Some headphones also use a hybrid approach, combining passive and active noise isolation methods to provide even better noise reduction.
Types of noise isolation in closed back headphones
When it comes to noise isolation in closed-back headphones, there are primarily three types: passive noise isolation, active noise cancellation (ANC), and hybrid noise cancellation. Let’s take a closer look at each type.
Passive noise isolation
Passive noise isolation is the most basic form of noise isolation. It is achieved through the physical design of the headphones. Closed-back headphones with an excellent acoustic seal can block out external noise simply by preventing it from reaching the listener’s ears. Passive noise isolation can effectively reduce noise levels by up to 20 dB, which can be helpful in loud environments or when you need to concentrate on your music or audio.
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
Active noise cancellation, or ANC, is a more advanced form of noise isolation that uses technology to block out external noise. ANC headphones have built-in microphones that pick up external sounds and produce an opposite sound wave that cancels out the external noise. This technology can effectively reduce low-frequency noise, such as engine noise on an airplane or traffic noise on a busy street. ANC can typically reduce noise levels by up to 30 dB or more.
Hybrid noise cancellation
Hybrid noise cancellation is a combination of both passive and active noise isolation methods. These headphones typically have an excellent acoustic seal to block out external noise passively and also use ANC technology to cancel out low-frequency noise. This combination can provide even better noise reduction than either method alone, making hybrid noise-cancellation headphones a good choice for noisy environments.
Factors to consider when choosing closed back headphones
There are several factors to consider when choosing closed back headphones for noise isolation. These factors can impact the effectiveness of the headphones in blocking out external noise, as well as your overall listening experience.
Type of noise isolation
As discussed above, closed-back headphones have different types of noise isolation, including passive, active, and hybrid. Consider the level of noise reduction you need and which type of noise isolation best suits your environment and listening needs.
Sound quality
Sound quality is an important factor when choosing any type of headphones, including closed-back headphones for noise isolation. Look for headphones with a balanced frequency response and accurate sound reproduction. It’s also important to consider whether the headphones have a good bass response and how they handle high-frequency sounds.
Comfort and fit
Comfort and fit are crucial for long listening sessions, especially if you plan to wear the headphones for extended periods. Look for headphones with soft, comfortable ear cushions and an adjustable headband that fits securely and comfortably. The weight of the headphones can also impact comfort, so consider lighter headphones if you plan to wear them for long periods.
Durability and build quality
Durability and build quality are important factors to consider, especially if you plan to use the headphones frequently or in demanding environments. Look for headphones with a sturdy, durable construction and high-quality materials. Consider the warranty or return policy when purchasing headphones to ensure you can get a replacement if the headphones break or malfunction.
Portability
Consider their portability if you plan to use the headphones on the go. Look for lightweight and foldable headphones, making them easy to carry around. A carrying case can also help protect the headphones when not in use.
Best closed back headphones for noise isolation
When it comes to closed-back headphones for noise isolation, there are many options on the market. Here are the top 10 closed-back headphones for noise isolation based on their features, performance, and user reviews:
Bose QuietComfort 35 II
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II is one of the market’s most popular and well-regarded noise-canceling headphones. It offers excellent active noise cancellation, great sound quality, and a comfortable fit. The headphones have a sleek design and carry a case, making them easy to transport.
Features:
- Active noise cancellation
- Bluetooth wireless connectivity
- 20-hour battery life
- Comfortable fit
- Volume-optimized EQ for balanced audio performance
- Integrated microphone for taking calls and voice commands
Pros:
- Excellent active noise cancellation
- Comfortable fit
- Sleek design
- Easy to transport with included carrying case
- Good microphone quality
Cons:
- Expensive
V-Moda Crossfade M-100 Master
The V-Moda Crossfade M-100 Master is a high-end closed-back headphone with durable metal construction and excellent noise isolation. It has a unique sound signature that emphasizes bass and treble, making it a popular choice for bass heads and EDM enthusiasts.
Features:
- Closed-back design for noise isolation
- Durable metal construction with interchangeable earpads and cables
- V-MODA award-winning signature sound (50+ Editors’ Choice Awards)
- Built to Last – Metal build, SteelFlex headband + Improved Sweat Resistance
- Dual-diaphragm 50mm drivers with CCAW Japanese coil deliver exciting bass and unparalleled clarity (Hi-Res Audio certified by Japan Audio Society)
- Large memory foam cushions and a 100% vegan leather headband provide superior comfort for extended listening sessions.
- Includes an Extended SharePlay Audio Cable and the aramid-fiber reinforced SpeakEasy 1-Button Cable with a built-in state-of-the-art microphone for crystal clear calls
- Up to 12 hours of battery life
- Customizable shields for personalization
Pros:
- Powerful and detailed sound with a unique sound signature
- Durable and customizable construction
- Excellent noise isolation for an immersive listening experience
Cons:
- It can be uncomfortable for some users during extended listening sessions
- Shorter battery life compared to other high-end headphones
Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless
The Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless is a high-end noise-canceling headphone with excellent sound quality and a comfortable fit. It has a stylish design and a hard carrying case for transport.
Features:
- Active noise cancellation
- Bluetooth wireless connectivity
- 17-hour battery life
- Comfortable fit
- Transparent Hearing mode for ambient sound
- Smart Pause and Auto On/Off features
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality
- Comfortable fit
- Stylish design
- Transparent Hearing mode for ambient sound
- Useful Smart Pause and Auto On/Off features
Cons:
- Expensive
- Average noise-canceling performance
Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro
The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro is a closed-back headphone well-regarded among audio professionals for its sound quality and comfort. It has a durable build and comes in different impedance options to cater to different audio setups.
Features:
- Closed-back design for noise isolation
- Comfortable fit
- Different impedance options
- Single-sided cable for easy handling
- Soft earpads for extended wear
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality
- Comfortable fit for extended listening sessions
- Durable build
- Different impedance options for flexibility
- Single-sided cable for easy handling
Cons:
- No active noise-canceling feature
- Not ideal for portable use
Sony WH-1000XM4
The Sony WH-1000XM4 is a popular, high-end, closed-back headphone with advanced noise-cancellation technology, making it ideal for those needing maximum noise isolation. Its many features make it a versatile and convenient choice for daily use.
Features:
- Closed-back design for noise isolation
- Industry-leading noise-cancellation technology
- 40mm drivers with Liquid Crystal Polymer diaphragms for clear and powerful sound
- Touch controls for easy operation
- Up to 30 hours of battery life
- Foldable design for portability
Pros:
- Excellent noise cancellation for an immersive listening experience
- High-quality sound with powerful bass and clear mids and highs
- Long battery life for extended use
- Convenient touch controls for easy operation
Cons:
- Expensive
- It can be uncomfortable for some users during extended listening sessions
- Mediocre microphone performance during a phone call
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is a popular closed-back headphone among audio professionals and music enthusiasts. It has a solid build quality, excellent sound quality, and a comfortable fit.
Features:
- Closed-back design for noise isolation
- Professional-grade earpads for comfort and sound isolation
- 45mm large-aperture drivers for clear sound
- Detachable cables for easy replacement
- Collapsible design for portability
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality
- Comfortable fit for extended listening sessions
- Solid build quality
- Detachable cables for easy replacement
- Collapsible design for portability
Cons:
- Average noise-canceling performance
- Sound signature may not be suitable for all listeners
Philips Performance PH805
The Philips Performance PH805 is a mid-range closed-back headphone with good sound quality and active noise-canceling features at a reasonable price point.
Features:
- Active noise-canceling for improved noise isolation
- 40mm neodymium acoustic drivers for clear sound
- Comfortable earcups with memory foam padding
- Touch control for easy access to music and calls
- Compact and foldable design for portability
Pros:
- Good sound quality
- The effective active noise-canceling feature
- Comfortable fit for extended listening sessions
- Touch control for easy access to music and calls
- Compact and foldable design for portability
Cons:
- Build quality could be better
- Noise-canceling can produce some audible hiss
Shure SRH1540
The Shure SRH1540 is a premium closed-back headphone designed for audiophiles and music professionals who demand the best sound quality. It features a lightweight and comfortable design and advanced noise isolation technology to provide an immersive listening experience.
Features:
- Closed-back design for noise isolation
- 40mm neodymium drivers for clear and detailed sound
- Alcantara earpads and padded headband for comfort
- Aircraft-grade aluminum alloy construction for durability
- Dual-exit cables with gold-plated MMCX connectors
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality with detailed and balanced sound
- Lightweight and comfortable design for extended listening sessions
- High-quality build with premium materials
- Dual-exit cables with gold-plated MMCX connectors for easy replacement
Cons:
- Expensive
- Limited noise isolation compared to other closed-back headphones with active noise cancellation
- Slightly recessed mid-range sound
Focal Elegia
The Focal Elegia is a high-end closed-back headphone with excellent sound quality and a sophisticated design. It is designed for audiophiles who want their headphones’ best sound quality.
Features:
- Closed-back design for noise isolation
- 40mm ‘M’-shaped dome drivers for clear sound
- Solid aluminum yoke and leather headband for durability and comfort
- Detachable cable with 3.5mm and 6.35mm connectors
- Soft earpads for a comfortable fit
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality with natural and balanced sound
- High-quality build with premium materials
- Comfortable fit for extended listening sessions
- Detachable cable with 3.5mm and 6.35mm connectors
Cons:
- Expensive
- Slightly heavy compared to other closed-back headphones
- Not ideal for bass-heavy music
AKG K371
The AKG K371 is a budget-friendly closed-back headphone with good sound quality and comfort. It is designed for musicians, producers, and audio engineers who want reliable and affordable headphones for monitoring and mixing.
Features:
- Closed-back design for noise isolation
- 50mm drivers for accurate and detailed sound
- Memory foam earpads for a comfortable fit
- Foldable design for portability
- Detachable cables for easy replacement
Pros:
- Good sound quality with accurate and detailed sound
- Comfortable fit for extended listening sessions
- Affordable price point
- Detachable cables for easy replacement
Cons:
- Build quality could be better.
- Limited noise isolation compared to other closed-back headphones
- No active noise-canceling feature
Comparison of Features and Performance
| Headphone Model | Noise Isolation Type | Frequency Response | Impedance | Sensitivity | Battery Life | Price |
| Bose QuietComfort 35 II | Active Noise Cancellation | 20Hz – 20kHz | 32 Ohms | 108 dB | Up to 20 hours | $344.80 |
| V-Moda Crossfade M-100 Master | Passive Noise Isolation | 5Hz – 40kHz | 32 Ohms | 103 dB | N/A | $219.24 |
| Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless | Hybrid Noise Cancellation | 6Hz – 22kHz | 16 Ohms | 99 dB | Up to 17 hours | $399.95 |
| Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro | Passive Noise Isolation | 5Hz – 35kHz | 32 Ohms | 96 dB | N/A | $159.00 |
| Sony WH-1000XM4 | Active Noise Cancellation | 4Hz – 40kHz | 47 Ohms | 105 dB | Up to 30 hours | $294.89 |
| Audio-Technica ATH-M50x | Passive Noise Isolation | 15Hz – 28kHz | 38 Ohms | 99 dB | N/A | $168.00 |
| Philips Performance PH805 | Active Noise Cancellation | 7Hz – 40kHz | 32 Ohms | 105 dB | Up to 30 hours | $114.59 |
| Shure SRH1540 | Passive Noise Isolation | 5Hz – 25kHz | 46 Ohms | 99 dB | N/A | $359.12 |
| Focal Elegia | Passive Noise Isolation | 5Hz – 23kHz | 35 Ohms | 105 dB | N/A | $499.00 |
| AKG K371 | Passive Noise Isolation | 5Hz – 40kHz | 32 Ohms | 114 dB | N/A | $169.99 |
Tips for Using Closed-Back Headphones for Maximum Noise Isolation
- Proper Fit and Seal: One of the most important factors in achieving maximum noise isolation is ensuring a proper fit and seal with your closed-back headphones; This involves adjusting the headband and ear cups to fit comfortably and snugly around your ears, as well as ensuring a tight seal around the ear cups to prevent sound leakage.
- Volume Control: While turning up the volume to drown out external noise may be tempting, this can be counterproductive and potentially damaging to your hearing. Finding a comfortable listening volume that allows you to enjoy your music without excessively high volume levels is important.
- Choosing the Right Music: Another way to enhance noise isolation is to select music more conducive to focused listening. For example, instrumental or acoustic music with fewer distractions can help you stay more engaged in your music and minimize the impact of external noise.
Conclusion
In conclusion, closed-back headphones are an excellent option for noise isolation while listening to music or other audio content. They provide excellent sound quality while keeping out external noise, allowing for a more immersive listening experience.
Based on our review and comparison of the top 10 closed-back headphones for noise isolation, we recommend the Bose QuietComfort 35 II for its excellent noise cancellation capabilities, comfortable fit, and impressive sound quality.
When considering purchasing closed-back headphones for noise isolation, it’s important to consider factors such as type of noise isolation, sound quality, comfort, durability, and portability. It’s also important to use proper fit and seal, volume control, and choose the right music for optimal noise isolation.
