Home Ustad Review 9 Best Open Back Headphones in 2022 – Reviewed

9 Best Open Back Headphones in 2022 – Reviewed

If you are an audiophile, then would you love to use the open back headphone? Is it not? There is some kind of charm and fun using them.

Its audio quality is second to none, and no matter the genre you plan to listen to, they sound eloquent on it.  

In today’s review, we are going to be reading about the best open back headphones that are available on the market.

They come infused with different features and varied price points. However, we have done our best to ensure that the list is quite balanced for our readers.  

What is an open-back headphone?🤔

But first, what is an open-back headphone? The headphone is produced with an open backside. In other models, you can notice that the space behind the ear cups is closed. Hence the name closed-back headphones.   

In the open-back model, the audiophile dynamic driver is open. You can find that the mesh or grill can protect the back from touching anywhere. But you can notice that it is open on both sides.  

Why do you want to use open back headphones?  

Since we now know what open-back headphones are, why use them? As you might have guessed by now, the audio can be presented on the inner and outer areas of the headphone.

This feature enables audio to resonate with the diaphragm in giving sublime sound by resonance.   

It produces exceptional audio that helps you hear through the ear pads. Though this aspect of the unit might not be appreciated by those seated around you, it gives you excellent sound quality.   

If you are an audiophile who wants to listen to pristine music, you may want to use the best open back headphones.

It offers you excellent audio quality. Additionally, it provides you with a 3D positional sound performance for gaming purposes.  

 The drawbacks of using the open back headphone:-

Yes, it does come with drawbacks that you would want to know. As you read above, the sound can be leaked outside, thanks to the design of the earphone.

Not ideal for use inside offices. While the sound can go inside your ears, the sound also goes outside too.  

Besides the office, you may not want to use this kind of headphone in the library. The noise isolation of the headphone is also there. As the driver is open, it comes with no external noise in it.  

However, when you are inside a crowded subway or station, you can hear what is happening around you. Though it may not be good for music lovers, it is good to know what is happening around you, just in case.  

Enough said. Let us get started.  

Best Open Back Headphones – Our Top Pick👌

Below is a list of the best open back headphones on the market. Our research team has scoured the entire list and hand-picked only the best models for you. We have gone through countless feedbacks, reviews, and ratings, to select the open-back headphones.  

1. SENNHEISER HD 660 S – Best open back headphones For Gaming

Our quest begins with the SENNHEISER HD 660 S – HiRes Audiophile Open Back Headphone. The Sennheiser models come manufactured with great zeal and enthusiasm. You will be amazed to know that the brand has been in the market for several decades.  

You know that they are doing it right. The model comes with exceptional features that we will be reading about below.

This new model, HD 660 S is based on the previous HD 650 from them. The unit comes infused with the new lower 150-ohm impedance transducer.  

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The sound quality is robust and one of the best from this German company. Its notes are detailed and quite balanced. Due to the 150-ohm impedance, the direct connection between the smartphones and the audio system are generated seamlessly.  

They are produced with the help of lightweight aluminum material. These voice coils are then coupled with diaphragms designed with stainless steel. Its transducers have exceptional ± 1 dB tolerance, offering stunning sound quality.  

It comes with two cables that produce high-conductivity OFC copper. This headphone comes with deficient noise handling. One of the cables comes with a 6.3mm stereo plug. The 4.4mm Pentaconn balanced stereo plug is found in the other cable.  

Any headphones should be comfortable. This model is quite comfortable, enabling you to wear them for several hours at least effortlessly. It has fantastic airflow in your ears, allowing them to remain calm when listening to music.  

The earcups are large and sufficient for fitting even the most oversized ears. If you have large ears, do not worry when using this model. It is produced with soft velour ear cups. Besides, the headband padding is quite thick, helping you to wear them for a prolonged time.  

It weighs 0.5 pounds. That means it is lightweight, and you can wear them for prolonged hours without feeling discomfort. You could be users, gamers, listeners, or just about anybody wanting to use a new headphone that is open back in design.  

It is priced at less than $500. The price point is relatively high, but it is priced at $363 at the time of writing. When you are planning on upgrading your existing headphone, you might as well use this model.  

Pros:-

  • The unit is lightweight and portable.  
  • The model is highly comfortable to wear for extended periods.  
  • It has a new lower 150-ohm impedance transducer providing exceptional sound quality.  
  • It comes with opulent connectivity capabilities with two cables.  
  • The headphone has lightweight aluminum voice coils for providing a transient response.

Cons:-

  • The unit is expensive. 

The SENNHEISER HD 660 S – HiRes Audiophile Open Back Headphone is a stunning device. You can call them the best open-back headphones available in the market today. Though it is expensive, it comes with terrific features that are infused in it.  

 
Sennheiser HD 660 S review: Headphones with incredible soundstage!

2. Philips Fidelio X3 – Best open-back headphones under $300

The Philips Fidelio X3 Wired Over-Ear Open Back Headphones are next on our list. This model is one of the best open-back headphones on the market.

Philips has been in the industry for several decades and has produced sublime products for the electronic market.   

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It comes embedded with a wide range of uncolored sounds. The headphone is tuned 50mm with the help of the multi-layer polymer. The sound performance is second to none. The highs and the midrange are phenomenal.  

Besides, you can also hear the details elegantly. The bass is not too overpowering. It comes hi-res audio certified. When wired, you can now easily listen to what you want with the full impact of each note.  

The performance is quite lifelike if you want to know. The design is open back, and the sound leakage is very much present. It comes embedded with the transparent Kvadrat speaker material.  

That reduces the air pressure that tends to build up in the diaphragms. The model comes with a sleek and elegant appearance. That is because of the lovely Muirhead Scottish leather coming in black color.  

The earcups also come with an exciting design in them. Its input is quite balanced and suitable for regular use with your laptop or smartphone. Those who prefer listening to songs on these devices can now do so.  

The package comes with 3meter oxygen-free cables. There is also the 6.3 mm adapter and a cable clip. You do not have to purchase them separately. The frequency response is powerful at 5 – 40,000Hz and has a 500mW maximum power input. 

It weighs 0.8 pounds making it remarkably light. You can place it on your ears for an extended period without hassle. You can also take it with you inside the backpack wherever you want.  

It is priced at less than $350. The price point is reasonably made for the features that it comes infused in. The unit is priced at less than $218 at the time of writing.

Why do you want to let go of such a tremendous open-back headphone from a branded maker?   

Pros:-

  • The model is elegant in design.  
  • The unit has stunning features.  
  • It comes with a tuned 50mm with the help of the multi-layer polymer. 
  • It has a frequency response that is powerful at 5 – 40,000Hz. 
  • The headphone is a brand for a value product.  

Cons:-

  • A user complained that the headphone was not loud enough.  

Philips Fidelio X3 Wired Over-Ear Open-Back Headphones may not be the most ideal if you are an audiophile.

But when you are looking for robust features for a reasonable price, there is no denying that this is one of the best models.  

 
Philips X3 Review | Return of a Legend! But WHYYYYY

3. Audio-Technica ATH-R70x – Best high end open back headphones

Audio-Technica ATH-R70x Professional Open-Back Reference Headphones is a product from a famous brand name. They are among the top 5 headphone makers that are sold in America. You know that this model is worth talking about.  

This unit can provide you with accurate sound quality. You can be sure of hearing everything that you are listening to. That is because of the high-efficiency magnets that are present in them.  

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You can also find the alloy magnetic circuit design. It enables you to decrease the noise distortion that is there. The result of this is an extended high-frequency response. The transient response is another exciting feature of the headphone.   

It comes with aluminum honeycomb-mesh housings. The headphone is lightweight and can be worn for lengthy hours. You can wear them without discomfort whether you are a professional gamer or an ordinary user.  

The accessories are included inside the package. There is a dual-sided cable; you can also find the protective carrying pouch. It enables you to take it with you anywhere. It weighs 1.6 pounds.  

That is relatively light. You can place them inside your backpack or handbag and easily move around outside. This can be your ideal travel companion if you plan on using an open back headphone for your travel requirements.  

You may want to use a robust amplifier. The music quality is unmatched. Users recommend using powerful software to generate the best out of the model.

It is priced at less than $350. The price point is slightly steep for the brand maker. But they have infused the headphone with outstanding features.  

Pros:-

  • The model has impeccable audio performance.  
  • The headphone comes with a detailed transient response. 
  • It is pretty comfortable to wear for extended periods.  
  • It comes with a dual-sided detachable locking cable.  
  • The package comes with all the accessories included in them.  

Cons:-

  • Not suitable for those having large ears.  

Audio-Technica ATH-R70x Professional Open-Back Reference Headphones offer impeccable audio performance and have a phenomenal transient response; besides, the model comes very comfortable to wear for long periods. 

4. Beyerdynamic Dt 880 250 – Best open back headphones under $300

Beyerdynamic Dt 880 250 Ohm Pro Semi-Open Studio Headphones is no run-of-the-mill model. This unit is a limited edition black one that comes elegantly designed. It comes with a stunning 250 Ohm impedance suitable for studio use.  

Suppose you are somebody whose profession deals with studio mixing & editing. It is also suitable for mastering so you might consider it. The earpads are made quite rugged but can be adjustable. 

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The best open back headphones are made from a soft padded headband construction. You can wear them without noticing too much discomfort. There are also velour earpads that come with it. The open-back design provides you with top-notch sound effects.  

It comes with a ten feet-coiled cable. You can now use it from a vast distance inside a room without compromising your flexibility. There is excellent neutral tone reproduction. Due to the vocal positioning, it gives you the ultimate sound performance.  

It is a German-produced DT 880 Pro unit with components that can be replaced when required. It weighs 0.6 pounds. The headphones are light and help you move around without any discomfort.  

It is priced at less than $230. The price point of the model is affordable. It comes with spectacular features that are worth considering for your requirement. It has a 250 ohms impedance that is ideal for studio use.  

Pros:-

  • The model comes with a 250 ohms impedance for studio use. 
  • The unit is produced from a rugged & adjustable headband construction. 
  • Its parts can be replaced as they are produced in Germany.  
  • It comes with replaceable soft-skin earpads. 
  • The model has an almost 10 feet-coiled cable for quick movements.  

Cons:- 

  • The headset cannot be worn for a lengthy period.

Beyerdynamic Dt 880 250 Ohm Pro Semi-Open Studio Headphones is a splendid unit to consider. However, they are not comfortable at all.

That is because the armature sides can bend towards your head, especially if you wear glasses or have long hair. But otherwise, the best open-back headphones come with a lot of praise from their users. 

 
BEYERDYNAMIC DT880 PRO | REVIEW

5. Shure SRH1840 – Best open back headphones under $150

The Shure SRH1840 Professional Open Back Headphones is an outstanding model that comes infused with stunning features. The model has decent 40 mm neodymium drivers that provide you with second-to-none sound performance.  

The bass is pretty accurate and offers you opulent quality. Additionally, the open-back design suits the model because of its natural sound-giving capability. There is an increased depth of field due to that.  

Its construction is made from lightweight material. It is produced from the aircraft-grade aluminum alloy used to create the yokes. Besides, the grilles are manufactured using stainless steel.  

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This feature offers enhanced durability. The driver frame is produced from steel material. The frame comes with a vented center pole, improving the resonance. Not to mention, the overall listening quality is immensely noticeable.  

You can wear the unit for several hours. They come with drivers that are individually matched. It weighs 0.7 pounds. That is relatively lightweight. Its velour earpads can be replaced with another set provided in the package.  

There is also another additional cable. It is priced at less than $500. The price point is quite expensive. But you will want to know that this model is from Shure. It is money for value products.  

Pros:- 

  • The unit is exceptionally lightweight and portable.  
  • The product offers you sublime sound quality.  
  • It is a feature-rich model that has a wide range of features.  
  • It comes elegantly designed.  
  • This is money for a valuable product. 

Cons:- 

  • This is an expensive product.  

The Shure SRH1840 Professional Open Back Headphones are expensive. But when you want to own a powerful headphone, it has to be the Shure.

The sound quality is beautifully detailed, with a smooth touch. The noise isolation and frequency response in them are terrific. They come with exceptional performance and quality as well.   

 
Shure SRH1840 Professional Open Back Headphones

6. GRADO SR225x – Best high-end open-back headphones

GRADO SR225x Prestige Series Wired Open-Back Stereo Headphones could be just the kind of headphones you are looking for. The best open-back headphones are based on the 4th generation Grado model.  

It comes tuned with powerful 44mm drivers for eloquent sound quality. Additionally, they come with a 38-ohm impedance.

Yes, it might not sound too much for a headset, but they are adequate for producing incredible sound quality.  

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The unit comes with a new braided cable. Users have noticed that and are extremely happy about it. That is because the cable is relatively smooth and does not twist or get tangled. This model has the 8-conductor super-annealed copper wiring. 

Using this kind of wiring, you know that you are safe. Not to mention, the padding found on the headband is quite sturdy. It can last you several years with ease. You will be glad to find out that it is produced from synthetic & vegan-friendly material. 

It is priced at less than $226. The price point makes it one of the cheapest models on the list. This unit could be the best open-back headphones. An exclusive authorized Amazon seller sells it in the United States.  

The maker provides you with a 1-year manufacturer warranty inside America. You know that brands giving warranties trust and have faith in their wares. The same can be said about these headphones too.  

Pros:-

  • The unit is priced relatively cheap and affordable. 
  • The model has powerful 44mm drivers. 
  • It has a 38-ohm impedance. 
  • It comes with a new braided cable. 
  • The headphone has 8-conductor super annealed copper wiring. 

Cons:- 

  • The unit is made with earpads that need some getting used. 

GRADO SR225x Prestige Series Wired Open-Back Stereo Headphones are a fantastic choice for music lovers. Besides the fact that they are produced in America, they are also quite affordable, which is excellent.

The build quality is breathtaking, and so is the audio performance. The highs and mids are exceptional and come with just the right elements.  

7. HIFIMAN SUNDARA Hi-Fi Headphone with 3.5mm Connectors 

HIFIMAN SUNDARA Hi-Fi Headphone with 3.5mm Connectors is next for discussion. The headphones produced by HIFIMAN come with a certain charm about them. They are interesting and produce excellent sound quality.   

The unit has a hi-tech diaphragm that is nearly 80% slimmer than the other series. This feature produces more detail, quicker transient, and frequency response that is quite extended.   

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Additionally, the headband design has a separate head strap. This feature allows the model weight to balance on your head. It provides the right feeling when you wear them. Not to mention, the appearance is quite elegant to look at.  

It can absorb those accidental drops that happen at times. You do not have to worry about the unit getting damaged at all. The cable attachment comes with a 3.5m socket, providing immense connectivity.   

The SUNDARA model comes with the latest cable that is durable. It has better materials used made of OFC wire. The soundstage is one of the widest you could have heard in a long time. As it is an open-back headphone, there is sound leakage.   

The cable is slightly short, but it should be fine if you are somebody who does not move around much. You may want to use an extended warranty to be safe. It weighs 0.8 pounds making it relatively light.  

This aspect enables you to take it with you wherever you want. It is priced at less than $350. The price point of the model is steeply made. However, it comes infused with decent features that make it hard to ignore.   

Pros:- 

  • The model is sleek and elegant.  
  • The unit has a hi-tech diaphragm close to 80% slimmer than the other series. 
  • It has a good frequency response. 
  • It comes with a 3.5m socket. 
  • The headphones can provide you with exceptional sound performance.  

Cons:-

  • The model cannot be termed durable.  

HIFIMAN SUNDARA Hi-Fi Headphone with 3.5mm Connectors is a fantastic model and comes very entertaining. Though you might be tempted to try out the Ananda model at times, these are much better. For the price point, this model is one of the best open-back headphones.  

8. DROP + Dan Clark – Best open back headphones under $1000

The DROP + Dan Clark Audio Aeon Planar Magnetic Headphones could be one of the best open-back headphones. The model provides you with exceptional open-back performance. Previously Known as MrSpeakers, Dan Clark Audio has produced a magnificent model with this.  

Dan Clark worked as an audio engineer in the audio market. He was in the industry for over 20 years and wanted to produce top-notch products through Dan Clark Audio. It has an impedance of 13 ohms.  

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The cable is a DUMMER 4-pin that comes in 3.5mm to 6.3mm. The cable length is 2 meters, which should accommodate your needs. However, it could have been given slightly longer. It comes with fenestrated earpads that are entirely partially done.  

This also reduces the dampening of the drivers. The soundstage is significantly widened, providing a quality that is as good as the original. The power response on the unit is quite impeccable.  

It provides you with a stunning audio performance that is punchy too. Besides, the unit is comfortable to wear for lengthy hours. You can wear them without discomfort, whether for listening to music or playing games. 

It weighs 0.7 pounds. The model weighs relatively lightweight and you can take it around with you. It is priced at less than $520. The price point is expensive and one of the costliest models on the list.  

Pros:-

  • The model is designed to be relatively light.  
  • The unit has an impedance of 13 ohms.  
  • It comes with a DUMMER 4-pin in 3.5mm to 6.3mm. 
  • It has fenestrated earpads that are entirely partially done. 
  • The headphone is comfortable to wear for prolonged hours without discomfort. 

Cons:- 

  • Nothing that we could find, except that it was quite expensive.  

DROP + Dan Clark Audio Aeon Planar Magnetic Headphones is a top-notch product from the makers of Dan Clark Audio. After intense research and quality testing, they want to give consumers the best product available.

Yes, it is priced relatively high at $500, but we might want to let you know that it has remarkable features that are difficult to ignore.  

9. HIFIMAN Deva-Pro Over-Ear Full-Size Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphone 

HIFIMAN Deva-Pro Over-Ear Full-Size Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphone is the second model from the company on our list of the best open back headphones. This model comes with an acoustically invisible stealth magnet. 

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You can find the units that come with the conventional magnet. The unique shape of the stealth magnet enables the waves to pass through the magnets without noise distortion. Since it is acoustically transparent, the wave diffraction is decreased.  

This feature helps to improve the sound of music. It develops stupendous sonic output. The music is entirely accurate and in complete range. The supernano diaphragm is spectacular. Consumers will be glad to know that the NsD has an 80% slimmer design.  

It helps in giving you a quick response that has a remarkable sound. The architecture of the model is the Bluemini R2R DAC. This feature not only consumes less energy but also produces high sampling rates.   

The model offers you the ability to switch from wired to wireless. Users can do that using a 3.5mm single-sided balanced cable on the left side. There is a dual-sided unbalanced 3.5mm cable on the right side.   

With the Bluemini R2R, you can now connect using the left side. Users have preferred the boxing of the headphone. It is done elegantly. That goes to show the dedication of the company to its users.  

The unit comes safely packed inside a protective cloth setting. It supports aptX HD, and the pairing is fast. The unit announces the power on and off, enabling you to beware of things. These small little features make the product sound exciting and worth your money.  

Any drawbacks? One user pointed out that the HIFIMAN comes with a Bluetooth module that provides sound in high frequency when the music stops. That can be irritating for some users. It weighs 0.7 pounds.  

The unit is relatively light, and you can wear it comfortably on your head without discomfort. It is priced at less than $330. The price point is quite reasonable. However, not all might be able to afford it. But if you can, then it is worth your money.  

Pros:-

  • The headphones are light and portable.  
  • It comes nicely packed. 
  • The unit has stupendous noise isolation. 
  • The model has the Bluemini R2R DAC. 
  • It is priced quite affordable.  

Cons:- 

  • The Bluetooth module needs to be tweaked.  

HIFIMAN Deva-Pro Over-Ear Full-Size Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphone is a spectacular model that comes infused with stunning features. It has several features, including light and portable. The best open-back headphones come nicely packed with stupendous noise isolation. 

✅FAQs on the best open back headphones list

What is the difference between open-back and closed-back headphones?

The open-back headphone is produced with the ability for the sound to be heard outside. However, as the name implies, no sound can be heard outside in the closed-back headphone. There is no noise leakage from the model in the closed-back model.  

The main advantage of using an open-back model is that it provides ample ventilation. This feature is not available in closed-back headphones.

But using the open-back model in offices or the subway might not be a good idea as sound leakage occurs.

Why are open-back headphones considered better?

The open-back model is considered the better one because of the audio performance. After all, the primary purpose of using headphones is to listen to the quality of the songs. They are capable of providing you with opulent sound quality.

Is the open-back model a good choice for casual listening?

An open-back headphone is an excellent option for casual listening. They provide you with a dazzling sound performance compared to the closed-back model. However, the sound performance may not appeal to all listeners.

Can others hear what you are listening to on your headphones?

Yes, others can hear what you are listening to when you use open-back headphones. That unit is produced & designed as such.

You won’t be the only individual listening to the music coming from the headphones because those around you can also hear it.

What is the price range of the best open-back headphones?

The suitable price range of the best open-back headphones would be between $200-$500. Some headphones are priced more than $500, but they are not required unless you are an audiophile, and more importantly, you can afford those headsets.

Final thoughts on the best open back headphones

We have ended our discussion on the best open-back headphones. We hope that you were able to make up your mind about the model of your choosing. They come with remarkable features and are affordable.   

We highly recommend the SENNHEISER HD 660 S – HiRes Audiophile Open Back Headphone, Philips Fidelio X3 Wired Over-Ear Open-Back Headphones, and Audio-Technica ATH-R70x Professional Open-Back Reference Headphones.  

These models come infused with the features that you would want to see in them. However, the other headphones are not bad choices either. Just that the sound performance & and the noise leakage are better in these models.   

Did you like something that you read in the above review? Did we miss out on something in hindsight? Please write to us about your experience using the open back headphone. We would be delighted to hear all about what you have to share with us.  

Thanks for reading. What are you waiting for?