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Sennheiser is one of the biggest names in audio, if not the biggest. The German company has been around since 1945 and is as successful as ever. Their headphones are what consumers might compare newer and less established brands to. They are one of the best brands in terms of quality of sound and value for money. If you’re already set on buying a pair of Sennhesiers, now all you have to do is narrow down your options based on certain criteria in order to find the perfect pair for you.
Factors to Consider for Choosing the Right Sennheiser Headphones
There are a few things to consider when choosing your headphones:
- Value vs price
- Size and shape
- Compatibility
- Extra features
Sennheiser generally offers excellent value, but some models are priced higher than others for various reasons. You should determine which features are essential to you and narrow down your search based on those. Then you’ll know which features are most useful to you and worth the price.
If you like the in-ear design, that will narrow down your search significantly, but there are still many models of that type. Workout models offer a snug fit and don’t fall out easily, so if you’re often active, you might want to pick out a pair that are specifically designed for working out.
If you want Bluetooth compatibility for phone functions and wireless use, there are plenty of great options. If there are any specific features that are usually included that you want, that will make your search for the perfect pair much easier.
Top Models Available for Online Purchase
Below are the very best Sennheiser models on the market. They have a huge variety of different products, so here are the top options in different styles.
Sennheiser Momentum 2.0 Wireless with Active Noise Cancellation
In order for a pair of headphones to be great for noise cancellation, they ought to be sizable, so if you don’t mind wearing something somewhat large, these will be able to block out loud background noises completely. They do fold at the hinges though, so they can fit better in a bag or drawer. They work exceptionally well to isolate sound due to their NoiseGard technology, which uses very small microphones to reduce outside noise and amplify sound around your ears.
These have Bluetooth 4.0 with aptX codec for highly effective use with any device. They also have NFC functionality, so you can simply bump them against your device if NFC is activate. They have a 21 hour battery with ANC, which is very long. Alternatively, you can use the 3.5mm cable that is included. If your battery is out, you can still enjoy using them while plugged in.
Sound quality from the Momentum 2.0 Sennheiser wireless headphones is exceptional. You’d think that the price of these would reflect their sound quality, right? It totally does, and then some. They have solid bass delivery, but the lows are not exaggerated. Sound is clear and accurate, with instruments standing out individually to offer multiple dimensions of sound with a frequency response from 16Hz to 22kHz.
They have a good amount of cushion on the ear cups, and come with a hard carrying case. Overall, these are awesome if you can afford them and really deliver clean, smooth sound with excellent noise cancellation.
Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear
They’re not quite top-tier in terms of audio quality, but they sound so much better than the majority of in-ear headphones on the market that it’s hard to imagine anyone being displeased with them, especially for the price.
If you use the right tips (there is a good selection included), they’ll fit snug, but aren’t designed specifically for working out. There’s an in-line remote for easy volume, track control, and call functions. Their red and black color offers a fashionable touch that you can match well with certain outfits. Overall, these are an excellent pair of headphones for the price, especially if you plan on listening to hip hop, R&B, or pop.
Sennheiser HD1 In-Ear Wireless Headphones
They have a 10-hour battery life from a 1.5 hour charge, which is respectable compared to similar models. They have Bluetooth 4.1, AAC codec, and apt-X support. NFC pairing allows you to tap and sync up your device in seconds. These include vibration and audio notifications that can be turned on or off. They also include four types of tips and a carrying case. With these, you need to make sure you choose the right sized tip or they will be prone to sliding out of your ears when you move around.
In terms of sound quality, these offer extremely crisp mids and pronounced highs with lows that are quite sufficient, but may not be heavy enough for hip hop and R&B lovers. Like the Momentum in-ear model above, they don’t offer much in the way of noise cancellation, by they do produce clear, balanced sound. The HD1 in-ear model is a great option for reliable sound quality on the go and wireless use.
Sennheiser OCX 686G Sports Ear-Canal Ear Hook Headset
Although these are wired, they’re great all around and offer a very snug but comfortable fit. If you don’t mind the cord, you’ll be very happy with these, especially for the price. They’re sweat and water resistant, so you don’t need to worry if it starts raining while you’re running, or if you are covered in sweat while handling them.
Sound quality is quite good, especially highs and mids. Lows aren’t exactly powerful, but they are sufficient to balance out the sound and create a great overall listening experience. Their in-line remote includes a mic and buttons for music play and call control. The OCX 686G include several different types of anti-bacterial tips, and should fit snug no matter which one you use due to the ear clips.
The cord is an oval-shaped, non-tangle design that allows you to toss them into your pocket without worrying about them getting caught in a knot. This is quite possibly the best workout headphone on the market. Unless you are crazy about having heavy bass, you’ll love these.
Sennheiser HD 650 Open Back Professional Headphone
They’re carefully hand assembled in Germany to ensure elite craftsmanship with each model. Their drivers are examined closely to ensure precise matching tolerances. They feature computer-optimized neodymium magnets, which reduce any distortion and further clarify sound. Bass levels are incredibly dynamic, and result in realistic, vibrant sound. Highs and mids are equality impressive and transparent. For movies with high quality sound, you’ll be amazed at the range and clarity these offer—well beyond any mid-grade pair of headphones.
They include a removable cable that ends in a 6.3mm jack. If you want to use these with a mobile device, you can simply switch out the cables, or buy a 6.3 to 3.5mm adapter. They’re intended for home use, but you can take them on the go if you want. They won’t exactly look flattering though. If you can afford these, they are simply amazing. If you’re willing to pay twice as much, you could find marginally better options, but these will more than suffice for any conceivable use.