Most over-ear and on-ear headphones you’ve come across are likely closed-back models. Unlike open-back headphones, which allow sound to flow freely in and out for a more natural listening experience, closed-back headphones are designed to seal in the audio. This helps block outside noise while also reducing sound leakage.
Thanks to this design, closed-back headphones are highly versatile—perfect for commuting, walking outdoors, or working in shared spaces. They also typically deliver stronger bass compared to open-back alternatives.
Beyerdynamic DT 1770 Pro
Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro
Audio-Technica ATH-M20x
Here are our top picks for the best closed-back headphones you can buy today.
1. beyerdynamic DT 1770 Pro Studio
The Beyerdynamic DT 1770 PRO stand out as some of the best closed-back headphones available, combining durability, comfort, and a refined sound profile. Designed for professional use, they deliver a balanced listening experience with an impressively flat midrange that brings vocals and instruments to life with clarity and accuracy. While their low-bass response isn’t as strong as some might prefer, the overall bass remains tight and controlled, giving music adequate punch without overwhelming other frequencies. The treble is slightly underemphasized, softening certain details, but there’s still enough energy in the mid-treble to keep cymbals and higher notes lively.
Like most closed-back headphones, their soundstage feels more confined compared to open-back models, but they still provide a clean and precise presentation. Build quality is excellent, with a sturdy frame and plush ear cup padding that ensures comfort during extended sessions. They also include a detachable audio cable for easy replacement and a protective carrying case for safe storage.
The DT 1770 PRO offer solid passive noise isolation, minimizing background chatter and reducing audio leakage, making them suitable for both studio use and everyday listening. With their combination of comfort, durability, and accurate sound, these headphones are a reliable choice for serious listeners.
2. Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro
The Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO are among the best closed-back headphones for those who want a durable, professional-grade option without stepping into premium territory. Built with a sturdy frame and comfortable ear cups, they’re designed for long-term use, though the fit can feel tight for larger heads. For smaller head sizes, however, they offer excellent comfort during extended listening sessions.
In terms of sound, the DT 770 PRO deliver a bright, analytical profile that highlights vocals and lead instruments with clarity. The bass response is rolled off, so kick drums and low-end notes lose a bit of thump, but the overall tuning remains balanced enough for detailed listening. Treble is forward, which can sometimes feel sharp, yet this brightness is often valued in studio headphones for identifying subtle clicks, pops, and other details during mixing or editing.
Another advantage is their ability to provide passive noise isolation, making them suitable for use in shared spaces. Their drivers are tightly matched for accurate stereo imaging, and distortion levels remain low even at higher volumes, ensuring faithful sound reproduction.
Overall, the Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO stand out as a dependable choice for studio monitoring, music production, and anyone seeking clear, accurate closed-back headphones.
3. Audio-Technica ATH-M20x
When it comes to budget-friendly closed-back headphones, build quality often takes a hit, and this pair is no exception. The exposed audio cable makes them more vulnerable to wear and tear over time. Still, what sets them apart is their warm and pleasing sound signature, which provides an accessible entry point into higher-quality listening.
The sound profile leans toward warmth, with a noticeable boost in the mid-to-high bass region. This adds punch and fullness to the music while maintaining clarity in the midrange, so vocals and instruments come through naturally without being overshadowed. The bass lacks some deep thump and rumble, but the overall presentation remains engaging. The treble range, however, is recessed, which pushes certain details like vocal harmonics, cymbals, and sibilants slightly into the background.
Comfort is another plus, making these headphones suitable for longer listening sessions. While passive noise isolation is limited—meaning background noise can creep in during use—they still provide a decent experience for practicing instruments, monitoring recordings, or enjoying music in quieter settings.
Overall, they deliver a solid, balanced sound with a touch of warmth. For those seeking an affordable set of closed-back headphones with reliable performance, they are a practical and enjoyable option.
4. Focal Stellia
The Focal Stellia are regarded as some of the finest closed-back headphones available, crafted for those who want uncompromising performance and luxury design. Built with premium leather and aluminum, they exude elegance while offering durability and comfort, making them a standout choice among high-end headphones. Despite their heavier build, the Stellia remain comfortable enough for extended listening sessions thanks to their plush ear pads and ergonomic design.
Their sound signature leans warm, with an emphasis on bass that provides extra punch and fullness without overwhelming the mix. Vocals and instruments are presented with clarity and presence, while the smooth treble avoids fatigue during long sessions. However, the recessed high frequencies reduce some vocal detail and subtle harmonics, which may leave the presentation slightly less airy than expected.
Like many closed-back models, the soundstage feels narrow and confined compared to open-back alternatives. Still, the Stellia manage to create a somewhat natural listening environment, maintaining precision and intimacy in the mix. Audio delivery can vary depending on fit, with bass performance affected if the ear pads lose their seal due to glasses or thicker hair.
Overall, the Stellia combine luxury craftsmanship with powerful, refined sound, making them an exceptional choice for serious audiophiles.
5. Focal Bathys
The Focal Bathys Wireless are premium over-ear headphones designed for those who want an audiophile-grade listening experience in a portable, wireless form. With Bluetooth connectivity and support for aptX Adaptive, they deliver high-quality audio with low latency, making them versatile for both music and media. Their default sound profile is fairly neutral, offering satisfying thump, rumble, and boom in the low end, though vocals and instruments can sound slightly veiled. Fortunately, the companion app includes a graphic EQ and presets for tailoring the sound to personal preference.
Built with solid materials and a premium feel, these headphones are both durable and comfortable enough for extended listening. Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) helps block out background sounds like bus and airplane engines, making them excellent for travel. While they are somewhat bulky, the included hard carrying case ensures added protection on the go.
Battery performance is impressive, with over 29 hours of continuous playback when ANC is enabled, easily lasting through long trips or workdays. However, they cannot be used while charging or through a wired connection if the battery runs out. Their soundstage, while precise, remains narrow compared to open-back headphones, which is expected in a closed-back design.
Conclusion
Closed-back headphones remain the go-to choice for anyone seeking versatility, strong noise isolation, and powerful sound in both casual and professional settings.
From studio monitoring to everyday commuting, they excel at keeping music close to your ears while minimizing sound leakage. Whether you’re after premium craftsmanship, wireless convenience, or budget-friendly reliability, the best closed-back headphones deliver comfort, durability, and a satisfying listening experience.
Choosing the right pair depends on your needs, but no matter the model, closed-backs ensure an immersive and private way to enjoy your audio anywhere.
