Videos have become a great deal these days, wouldn’t you agree? One of the critical aspects that you need to get right while creating videos is how you edit them. Let it be marketing, content creation, blog content, or even personal use; editing your video takes it to another level.
Today’s market is developing new technology for video cameras. For this reason, audio quality may have taken a backseat.
If you are a video editor, you know how much difference a crisp and clear sound quality can make to your video. It is essential to engage your audience with the moving images and, more importantly, a great audio experience.
For all you video editors, filmmakers, and content creators, here is what you need to invest in: the best headphones for your editing endeavors!
Check out our list of the best headphones for video editing available in the market today!
What to Keep in Mind While Choosing Your Headphones
Before you choose the best headphones for video editing, there are certain factors you need to pay attention to:
1. Design
The design of your headphones is one of the essential features that you should take into consideration. You need to make sure the headphones you choose, provide you with the best comfort for your long editing hours.
Headphones can be classified into over-ear and on-ear:
Over-ear headphones, also known as circumaural headphones, have thick padding along their circumference. This enables them to sit on your year rather than fit into it.
On-ear headphones are not as conventional as the over-ear ones. These earcups lay flat on your ear, which is beneficial for shorter durations. It could potentially cause fatigue if worn for more extended periods.
Another category for classification is open-back and closed-back earcups:
Closed-back headphones are generally more common in the market. They promote sound isolation, which reduces distraction from the external environment. Open-back ear cups, as the name suggests, enable a more open and spacious sound profile. While it has a broader soundstage, it also contributes to significant sound leakage.
2. Connection
Most headphones employ the conventional cord connection that connects to your device through a headphone jack. You can achieve excellent sound fidelity without any audio degradation, which is generally seen in wireless headphones. If you go for higher-end headphones, they will offer you options to either unplug or use the cord. This way, you can switch the mode of connection according to your usage.
3. Frequency Response
Humans can hear within a frequency range of 20Hz- 20k Hz. So, the minimum requirement is to get a pair of headphones that cover this frequency range. Several headphones feature a much more extensive frequency range, which caters to your low/ bass end needs. You may not be able to listen to these frequencies, but you can most definitely feel them.
4. Impedance
Impedance is how you measure the capacity of your headphones’ drivers to ‘drive’ or produce sound waves to your ear. Generally, lower impedances are easy to drive, and you will not even require extra equipment for further amplification. If you are looking for headphones with a dedicated amp or for a pro studio equipment, you need a higher impedance. As per your requirements, you can choose a pair of headphones that offer maximum compatibility.
5. Flexibility
Flexibility is also essential if you want to ensure that your headphones are compatible with your devices. If you have multiple devices such as a smartphone, PC, tablets, or mixing panel, you will require a flexible pair of headphones to connect to your various devices. It is also useful for when you plan on getting an amplifier.
6. Durability
Durability is another factor you need to keep in mind to make sure your headphones last a while. Investing in durable headphones is worth it, especially if you are shedding a few extra bucks for high-quality headphones.
Best Headphones for Video Editing in 2020
1. Audio Technica ATH-M50x – Editor’s Choice
Let us start by reviewing the top-rated headphones for studio monitoring: Audio Technica ATH-M50x. Tech experts have sung their praises for these one-ear monitoring, minimal bleed headphones, and let’s just say, they sang them right!
The Audio-Technica M50x is an excellent alternative for many professional editors because they are effectively geared for monitoring purposes. These headphones boast a high-quality sound with a fantastic audio definition and efficient sound isolation due to its closed-back ear cups.
These headphones feature an over-ear, closed-back design that fits the ideal earcup profile, especially if you plan to wear them for long hours. Rear earth magnets power the large drivers, and its aluminum voice coils promote accuracy. They can easily connect to smartphones due to its low 38-Ohm impedance as well.
The frequency range is between 15-28 kHz, which provides clean and detailed audio with functional imaging. What more does it offer apart from the 15-28k frequency range, 45mm neodymium drivers, and copper-coated aluminum coils? Well, I just cannot overlook its collapsible feature, it makes portability all the easier!
Coming to the 90-degree swiveling ear cups, how can this feature not tempt you? This design gives the headphones a sleek profile that can be folded when not in use. You can rely on these headphones to filter external noise, blend sounds and enhance specific frequencies, and be responsive to bass. Its circumaural design allows the pad to sit around your ear rather than on them, which offers excellent sound isolation. So, if you work in loud environments that could become a source of distraction, you just found yourself a new best friend.
The level of comfort is not a question here. The headband is not only well-padded but is also adjustable. In addition to that, the detachable cable enables you to replace it with something that provides a wider range of motion. It comes with three detachable cables, which offers you flexibility in length. You can also choose between black and white color options.
Ultimately, the professionalism of these headphones is unmatchable. Its accurate imaging and high detailing contribute to why these headphones are one of the best headphones for video editing. They are also reasonably priced, and you are most likely to get your money’s worth.
What we liked:
- Swiveling ear cups enable one-ear samples estimation
- Remarkable construction featuring a thick metal and plastic headband
- Continuously flat frequency response
- Great definition
- Clear, accurate sound production
- Detachable cable
What we didn’t like:
- Standard cables do not fit
- Its bulkiness reduces portability
- May apply too much pressure on your temporal regions
You might also like the round up review of the Best Studio Headphones Under 200.
2. Sony MDR-7506 Pro Headphones
Do you dream of the best, but your pockets bring you back to reality? Once again, I have picked the perfect headphones for you! The rugged, closed-back design of the Sony MDR-7506 will offer you an editing experience like no other. You will enjoy an excellent editing session with minimal bleed and superior sound isolation.
These compact, foldable headphones feature a frequency range of 10-20 kHz that outline and estimate every aspect of your audio line. This feature makes them capable of catching the faintest sounds. The mids are strong, and the bass is very well noticeable. Its powerful 40mm drivers that provide clear sound reproduction, without producing screechy, unpleasant noises. They are your ideal headphones if you are involved in the video or film industry.
Its large ear cups are super soft, which allows you to wear them for extended hours comfortably. They come with a 10 feet long coiled cable and a 1/8th inch to 1/4th inch headphones jack. Portability is made even more convenient with the gorgeous leather case that it comes in.
These professional headphones are tailor-cut for all of your video-editing requirements. They have efficient noise-cutting abilities and superior-sounding flat audio, which makes them a steal for the price they are offered. The sensitivity setting on these headphones is quite high as well, reaching up to 106 dB. All kinds of notes can be conveyed accurately without any bleed.
If you are engaged in live/broadcast apps or even a professional studio setup, these headphones are the perfect option. Its collapsible design and large-diaphragm are one of the many benefits these headphones have to offer. It is a wonderfully designed pair of headphones that can be compatible with all of your devices, may it be your computer, smartphone, tablet, etc.
Overall, these headphones will not drain you of every penny of yours while showing minimal compromise on its functionality and performance.
What we liked:
- Convenient adjusting mechanism
- Comfortable
- Offers tonal balance with smooth-sounding, realistic audio
- Minimal sound leakage
- Great soundstage to mix
- Durable build
- Comes with a soft case
What we didn’t like:
- Does not come with a detachable cord
- Ears may get sweaty in hot conditions
3. Sennheiser HD 280 Pro
If you were to ask some experienced editors and sound mixers, the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro is most likely to be one of the best headphones for video editing on their list. Sennheiser has been one of the best brands in the audio space for a while. So, you really cannot go too wrong with the HD 280 Pro. They offer closed-back ear cups, wide frequency range, remarkable sound reproduction, and highly accurate frequency response; I mean, what’s not to like?
These headphones are high-performing and block out external noise effectively due to its closed-back design. This offers exceptionally efficient noise attenuation, and you can easily set the noise isolation at flat quietness while editing. The circumaural pads do a great job of ensuring the isolation of background sound only reaches up to 32 dB. This way, you can work on your video-editing without any disturbance if people are conversing in your surroundings. And if you want to pay attention to your surroundings, you can use its swiveling earcup feature to react fast to external events.
The editor can enjoy clear sounds at the loud parts as well, to make decoding faster. These are some of the reasons why these headphones are on the best-selling options on the market. The mids that it conveys are mellow and bright enough, while the highs are clear without compromising precision.
They deliver a precise image of every sound it carries because of its high sensitivity of 113 dB and again, its impressive frequency array. The 64-Ohm impedance plays a significant role in providing you with some dynamic, rich, and robust audio quality. It also features an Ergonomic Acoustic Refinement that minimizes comb filter effects and distortion.
And now, about comfort, they are super comfortable. With the thick plastic and metal headband, durability is not a question. The synthetic leather and its super soft material make using them for a long hour so convenient. Moreover, this padding, along with the cables, are all replaceable. So, if you decide to replace them at any point, you can easily do it without having to change your whole set of headphones.
They come with a 1/8th-1/4th inch stereo headphone adapter and a two-year warranty as well. And can’t forget the cute little carrying case they come with too!
What we liked:
- Engaging audio quality
- Neutral soundstage
- Collapsible features make portability easy
What we didn’t like:
- Comparatively heavier
- Changing connections is not easy due to its stiff cables
You might also like the round up review of the Best Studio Headphones Under $100.
4. Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro
The Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro headphones are available in three variants: 32 ohms, 80 ohms, and 250 ohms. As discussed earlier, lower impedance implies that the drivers in the headphones are easier to drive. Hence, the 32-ohm DT 770 Pro is an excellent option to be connected to your laptop, phone, or camera, without investing in professional studio equipment or a dedicated amp.
This is not the same case with headphones with higher impedances. You need to buy extra equipment to make sure the volume is excellent. Otherwise, they will sound too quiet when connected to your phone or computer, even when running on maximum volume.
Headphones with a lower impedance rating offer higher bass prevalence. The 32-ohm DT 770 Pro is designed to provide the same bass performance as the higher impedance models. This way, you can enjoy a good bass range without feeling that it is overpowering your entire audio mix. Additionally, the closed-back earcups make the bass response tighter while isolating most background noises.
The only downside that might make you want to reconsider buying them is that the headphones are not replaceable. But if you think you can take care of them well enough not to have to be in the position for wanting to replace them, go right ahead!
Overall, these headphones are super comfortable to wear, and the soft earcups keep your ears cool and cozy. The earpads are replaceable too. You can replace them with velour earpads whenever you want for the utmost comfort, even during your long editing sessions.
You can rely on the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro for excellent audio fidelity and a high-quality build.
What we liked
- Highly versatileBose QuietComfort 35 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
- Reliable pro-grade neutral soundstage
- Excellent sound isolation
What we didn’t like
- May overheat when used for long hours
- Not too sturdy
5. Bose QuietComfort 35 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II Headphones stands out for two reasons: First is its wireless feature. Next is its impressive active noise isolation ability, which offers a superior signal-to-noise. These headphones also have extremely responsive intuitive controls and contribute to a convenient user interface.
The active noise cancellation ability of these headphones is simply incredible. They reduce all kinds of background distractions, but these are also easy to operate thanks to the unique voice command feature. Interestingly, the noise cancellation features have three levels to give you that full listening experience. You can conveniently change to Bluetooth mode by downloading the Bose Connect app on your Bluetooth-enabled devices. The Bose Connect app also plays a role in sound equalization.
Another feature that people cannot overlook is the Google Assistant. The high speed and accuracy of this voice assistance are simply remarkable. The dual-microphone has a noise-rejecting ability, which ensures clean and clear voice recognition. It is capable of picking up your voice with no trouble even when you are in crowded places.
The rich, crisp audio quality, automatic sound optimization, and adequate sound isolation ability are among the many reasons the Boss QuietComfort has made it to our top-10 list. It also does an impressive job of delivering different kinds of ambient sounds and makes the main music line or dialogue stand out. It is suitable for a wide range of people because of how flexible it is with its adjustments. These headphones provide the user with powerful bass and excellent balance. The mids are just as high and clear, and the highs are decent, although some may think it can get too loud. And again, I do not need to talk about how balanced and loud the audio will feel because of its high signal-to-noise ratio.
The volume control is super sensitive and can be operated by voice command or the onboard controls. The navigation is not too complicated, and you can tweak the setting and make them more personalized as per your requirement.
These headphones are also super lightweight and have padded earcups. This takes both portability and comfort to another level. They have been designed to be sturdy without feeling too heavy. You can wear these headphones for several hours at a stretch because that is the kind of comfort that they offer.
Finally, I do not have to tell you about Bose. They have established a massive presence in the audio industry, making people rely on them without a doubt. They have manufactured a wide range of high-performing, well-reputed devices, and the Bose QuietComfort 35 II is no exception.
What we liked
- Bose AR technology makes audio sound more spacious and diverse in a studio setup
- Dual-microphone system
- The noise-cancellation feature activates immediately when they are turned on
- Extremely user-friendly due to the onboard controls
- Padded Alacantra earcups
What we didn’t like
- Earpads may overheat quickly
- Customers have reported connectivity issues with Android devices
- The plastic build affects the durability
You might also like the round up review of the Best Open Back Headphones for Gaming.
6. AKG Acoustics K 702 Circumaural Headphones
If you want headphones for high-quality listening, mastering, and monitoring, you need to be. The AKG Acoustics K 702 circumaural headphones feature a superior response precision, while also providing responsiveness and a spacious soundstage.
Talking about comfort, you will feel no uneasiness while wearing them thanks to its 3D foam earpads and leather headband that fit your head exactly the way you like it. The pro mini XLR connector that they come with will make changing cables so easy. Super convenient if you are a video producer, aren’t they?
Many professionals achieved great results with the unique two-layer diaphragm, and all new flat-wire voice coils these headphones feature. They are the perfect choice for audio and video editing as they boast an impressive frequency range of 10- 39.8 kHz. These headphones are pretty much your short-cut if you want to create a video with a remarkable audio base.
What we liked
- Great mids and crisp highs
- Excellent audio quality
- Looks stylish
- Detachable cable
What we didn’t like
- One of the more expensive models
You might also like the round up review of the Best Headphones for Mowing.
7. Sony WH-1000XM3 Wireless Non-Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones
Sony WH-1000XM3 noise-canceling headphones are a choice you can pass on if you are an editor or a videographer. These over-ear headphones ensure a crisp and clear dialogue and sound adjustments to suit your needs better. The impressive high signal-to-noise ratio enables you to edit and hear the audio. You can tweak the equalizer as per your requirements, such as the pitch or the bass, extremely easily with your smartphone app. The voice assistant feature is a great addition, which makes operating this headphone so easy.
The active noise cancellation is fantastic to eliminate any kind of distractions while you edit. The closed earcups, while promoting excellent sound isolation, also allow some natural background sounds for extra measure. Since these headphones can be used with your Bluetooth-enabled devices for a wireless connection, you can move around without being hindered by wires.
You can enjoy smart listening with the Sense Engine Technology that Sony has incorporated into this model. It also includes a quick attention option that you can use when you have to talk to someone without having to take them off. You will see that it comes with a controller that has a touch sensor. With this sensor’s help, you can control actions such as play, pause, skip tracks, adjust the volume, activate your google assistant, and even answer phone calls.
They have 30-hour battery life and can be used for 5 hours playback after being charged for just ten minutes. This feature could be of greater importance to you if you spend hours editing at a stretch. The 3.5mm wired connection is an excellent addition because it enables you to use them even when the battery is flat. It also has an Ambient Sound Control, which allows some background noise so that you are aware of your surroundings at all times.
The tech is excellent, and they offer an overall decent audio quality. The design of the Sony WH-1000XM3s is not precisely for studio monitors. So, if you have that specific purpose in mind, I recommend you to look for something else.
The 4-40 kHz frequency range is impressive and is super sensitive while producing clear dialogues and background sounds. You can create a personalized sound profile that suits your needs with the help of Sony’s headphone connect app. You can also adjust the bass and pitch level with the help of this app through the digital equalizer.
The connection ability of these headphones is limited, which can be quite problematic if you are operating with multiple devices.
The headphones are super professional and feature excellent transmission and sound processing. It helps in creating more detailed dialogue, diversified music tonality ad a flat response too. The mids are reliable, and the highs, accurate. It also has an expansive bass that does not get too overpowering. This is a tonality balance that is essential if you handle professional editing tasks or even listen to music.
Nevertheless, the wireless feature, active noise cancellation, voice assistance are just some of the features that this headphone has to offer. Sony has built a terrific name for itself over the years, so really, you cannot go too wrong with the WH-1000MX3.
What we liked:
- Active noise cancellation
- Sturdy build
- High durability
- Comfortable
- Voice assistant
What we didn’t like:
- The call audio quality is not the best
- Earcups can feel a bit shallow
- Charging cable is short
You might also like the round up review of the Best Headphones Under $200.
8. Sennheiser HD 569
All you need is to be comfortable. And you can depend on the Sennheiser 569 to treat you the way deserve! These headphones feature one of the most comfortable headbands in the headphones field. Whether you are working indoors or outdoors, its soft padding will make you want to wear them even when you are not using them.
They also feature earcups that fit perfecting over the ears and fulfill all your comfort needs. The build quality is pretty decent. You can rely on these headphones to continue performing optimally in stressful environments as well. They have detachable cables, which can be super beneficial if you wish to use them in a studio or office.
You must remember that if your primary purpose is an audio editing, these are probably not the headphones you are looking for. You are more likely to exploit all its benefits and thoroughly enjoy them if you either love music or gaming. With that in mind, its ergonomic acoustic enhancement still features the same qualities as high-performing monitoring headphones. Its earcup design, sound isolation, and wide soundstage are almost at par with ideal monitoring headphones.
What we liked:
- Great value for money
- Wide frequency range
- Excellent build quality
- Super comfortable
What we didn’t like:
- Noise cancellation feature is not the best
9. Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro
Are you ready for some outstanding monitoring headphones? If you are, here we have the Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro headphones that offer a unique semi-open design. This feature allows natural background sounds to blend into your mix. This type of plan does not have to be for you, but many seasoned editors love this feature in particular.
You can rely on these headphones to help you locate where precisely audio imperfections are in your mix. These headphones also offer a balanced soundstage along with an improved higher and midrange frequency response.
For the price point, these headphones are at; you would be impressed to see how outstanding its build quality is. The soft velour padding on the headband gives the user a cozy fit while wearing them. This way, you can dread your long editing hours slightly less and enjoy the utmost comfort!
What we liked:
- Exceptionally durable
- Comfortable padding
What we didn’t like:
- Pricier
- Minimal noise cancellation
10. Status Audio CB-1
For people having a cheaper budget, the Status Audio CB-1 is what you are looking. Don’t let the brand name throw you off. Otherwise, you would be missing out on some pretty fabulous headphones. These headphones provide you with neutral, powerful audio, but they are also of great value for money. Its high-performing 50mm drivers meet all your audio requirements.
They come with a removable cable that adds to your comfort while working with your video editing software. Though the build quality is not the best available, you are still able to exploit all of its features at a very affordable cost.
If you are looking for a pair of headphones that will not be too heavy on your pockets, this is a choice that you have to consider. Do not let your small studio/office set up come in the way you benefit from one of the best headphones for video editing!
The big earpads are great because they also come with the required padding. Although they may not be able to sit on your ear correctly, you are in for some excellent sound isolation technology. And of course, they also allow you to comfortably wear them for extended hours without feeling like your ears are going to fall off!
What we liked:
- Collapsible
- Budget-friendly
- Neutral soundstage
- Convenient to carry due to lightweight
What we didn’t like:
- May feel flimsy and slightly fragile
- Large earpads may feel inconvenient
You might also like the round up review of the Best Headphones Under $500.
Conclusion
This article reviews what I thought are the best video editing headphones, based on extensive research and customer usage. I hope that this review list has helped you pick out the best headphones for video editing for your studio needs. While I kept in mind to bring you with only the best headphones in the market, I couldn’t resist but have a personal favorite. If you are still breaking your head over which headphone to prefer, well, here is our round-up article review winner for the best headphones for video editing!
It’s hard not to keep coming back to take a glimpse at the Audio Technica headphones while looking at other video-editing headphones. And that is why the Audio Technica M50x is our top pick!
The swiveling ear cup design, the excellent build quality, high definition, and sound reproduction are among the many reasons why these headphones are one of the top-rated headphones available today. Unless you are giving special weightage to flexibility and portability, there is not much problem you will face with these headphones.
Ultimately, the professionalism of these headphones is unmatchable. Its accurate imaging and high detailing contribute to why these headphones are one of the best headphones for video editing. They are also reasonably priced, and you are most likely to get your money’s worth.
Regardless of our favorite, you can only enjoy the best headphones for video editing based on your requirement. I wish this article cured you of the headache of going through an ocean of choices. Go ahead and figure what you need, and take your video editing sessions a notch higher!
Last update on 2023-03-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API