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Best Headphones for Podcasting of 2025 - Expert Tested Reviews

Top picks for crisp audio and comfort during long recording sessions

Last updated: 11/16/2025
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Why the Right Headphones Matter for Podcasting

Choosing the right headphones for podcasting is crucial for achieving high-quality audio and ensuring comfort during long recording sessions. The ideal headphones should offer excellent sound isolation to prevent background noise from seeping into your recordings, and they must also provide clear audio playback for monitoring. Additionally, comfort is key, as podcasting sessions can often last for hours.

What to Look for in Podcasting Headphones

When selecting headphones for podcasting, consider factors such as sound quality, durability, and comfort. Closed-back headphones are generally preferred due to their superior noise isolation. Look for headphones with a wide frequency response to capture the full range of your voice. Adjustable headbands and soft ear cushions are essential for comfort during extended use. Additionally, a detachable cable can be a convenient feature for easy replacement and maintenance.

Our Testing Methodology

To compile this list, we rigorously tested numerous headphones in real-world podcasting scenarios. We evaluated each pair based on audio quality, noise isolation, comfort, and build quality. Our team of audio experts and podcasters spent countless hours recording and listening to ensure that only the best headphones made it onto this list.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Sony WH-1000XM5

The Sony WH-1000XM5 excels in podcasting with its outstanding noise cancellation and crystal-clear audio. The headphones offer a comfortable fit with plush earpads and a lightweight design, making them ideal for long recording sessions. The built-in microphone ensures high-quality voice capture, and the adjustable ambient sound mode allows for easy monitoring of your surroundings.

Best Value

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x offers exceptional sound quality at a budget-friendly price, making it an excellent choice for podcasters looking for value. These headphones provide excellent noise isolation and a comfortable fit, thanks to their circumaural design. The detachable cable adds convenience for easy replacement, and the durable build ensures longevity.

Best for Studio Use

Sennheiser HD 280 Pro

The Sennheiser HD 280 Pro is designed for professional studio use, offering superior noise isolation and a robust build. These headphones are perfect for podcasters who record in noisy environments. The closed-back design ensures minimal sound leakage, and the adjustable padded headband provides comfort during long sessions.

Best for Comfort

Bose QuietComfort 35 II

The Bose QuietComfort 35 II is renowned for its comfort and noise-canceling capabilities, making it an excellent choice for podcasters. The soft ear cushions and lightweight design allow for extended wear without discomfort. The three levels of world-class noise cancellation ensure a distraction-free recording environment, and the built-in microphone delivers clear voice capture.

Best for Durability

Shure SRH1540

The Shure SRH1540 is built to last, featuring a durable steel headband and replaceable earpads. These headphones offer excellent sound quality and noise isolation, making them suitable for podcasting. The closed-back design minimizes sound leakage, and the comfortable fit ensures that podcasters can record for hours without fatigue.

Best for Portability

Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro

The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro is a favorite among podcasters who need a portable solution. These headphones fold flat for easy storage and travel, yet they maintain high-quality audio and noise isolation. The closed-back design ensures minimal sound leakage, and the comfortable, adjustable headband allows for extended wear.

Best for Noise Isolation

AKG K240 Studio

The AKG K240 Studio offers exceptional noise isolation, making it ideal for podcasters in noisy environments. The semi-open design provides a natural soundstage, while the varimotion diaphragm ensures accurate sound reproduction. The comfortable headband and soft earpads allow for extended recording sessions without discomfort.

Best for Voice Clarity

Sennheiser HD 650

The Sennheiser HD 650 is renowned for its clear and detailed sound reproduction, making it perfect for capturing the nuances of your voice during podcasting. The open-back design provides a wide soundstage, and the comfortable velour earpads ensure long-term wearability. The high-quality build and excellent audio make it a top choice for discerning podcasters.

Best for Budget

Superlux HD681

The Superlux HD681 offers impressive sound quality at an affordable price, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious podcasters. The closed-back design provides good noise isolation, and the lightweight build ensures comfort during long sessions. The detachable cable adds convenience for easy replacement and maintenance.

Best for Versatility

Shure SRH440

The Shure SRH440 is a versatile choice for podcasters who need headphones that can handle various recording environments. The closed-back design offers good noise isolation, and the comfortable padded headband and ear cushions allow for extended wear. The detachable cable and durable build make it a reliable option for long-term use.

At a Glance: Quick Comparison

Compare key specs and features of all our recommendations side-by-side

ProductOur PickRatingPriceBest For
Sony WH-1000XM5
Rank #1
Best OverallN/ACheck price
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
Rank #2
Best ValueN/ACheck price
Sennheiser HD 280 Pro
Rank #3
Best for Studio UseN/ACheck price
Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Rank #4
Best for ComfortN/ACheck price
Shure SRH1540
Rank #5
Best for DurabilityN/ACheck price
Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro
Rank #6
Best for PortabilityN/ACheck price
AKG K240 Studio
Rank #7
Best for Noise IsolationN/ACheck price
Sennheiser HD 650
Rank #8
Best for Voice ClarityN/ACheck price
Superlux HD681
Rank #9
Best for BudgetN/ACheck price
Shure SRH440
Rank #10
Best for VersatilityN/ACheck price

About the Author

Review Atlas Team - Editorial Team

Expert reviewers testing hundreds of products annually.
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