Top Picks for Podcasting Headphones in 2025

Podcasting headphones come in all shapes, sizes, and price ranges. Below, we expand on our top 11 picks, detailing what makes each one stand out, along with its pros and cons.

9/18/20257 min read

1. Best Overall: Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x has long been a staple in the podcasting and audio production world. Its exceptional sound clarity and durable build make it the go-to choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Designed with precision in mind, these headphones deliver a flat frequency response, allowing podcasters to hear their audio exactly as recorded. Their robust construction ensures years of reliable use, even with daily wear. The foldable design makes them portable, and the detachable cables add to their versatility, catering to different studio setups. Whether you are monitoring sound during recording or editing your podcast episodes, the ATH-M50x ensures no audio detail goes unnoticed. It is especially popular for its ability to reproduce both subtle nuances and dynamic ranges, crucial for creating professional-quality podcasts.

Pros:

Accurate and balanced sound.
Foldable design for portability.
Detachable cables for added versatility.

Cons:

May feel tight for users with larger heads.
No built-in microphone.

Best For: Professional podcasters seeking studio-grade audio quality.

Price Range: $$

2. Best Budget Headphones: Sony MDR-7506

A budget-friendly option, the Sony MDR-7506 delivers high-quality sound at an affordable price. These headphones are lightweight, making them ideal for extended sessions. Their durability and sound clarity make them a long-standing favorite among professionals.

The MDR-7506 is known for its detailed sound reproduction, allowing podcasters to catch audio imperfections during recording or editing. The comfortable ear cups are perfect for prolonged use, and the foldable design adds portability. While it lacks modern features like Bluetooth, its reliability and audio precision make it a timeless choice for budget-conscious creators. Additionally, its high sensitivity ensures optimal sound quality even when used with lower-powered devices such as laptops or mobile phones.

Pros:

Exceptional sound clarity for the price.
Comfortable and lightweight design.
Durable build with foldable features.

Cons:

Lacks modern features like Bluetooth.
Minimal noise isolation.

Best For: New podcasters or those on a budget.

Price Range: $

3. Best Wireless Headphones with Mic: Bose QuietComfort 45

The Bose QuietComfort 45 combines premium noise cancellation with wireless convenience, making it a favorite for podcasters on the go. Whether you’re recording in a busy cafe or a home studio, its ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) ensures a distraction-free environment.

The integrated microphone is an excellent feature for remote interviews, providing crystal-clear communication. With up to 24 hours of battery life, these headphones are built for long recording sessions. While they come at a higher price point, their comfort and audio quality make them worth the investment for mobile podcasters. The ability to switch seamlessly between devices adds another layer of convenience, making these headphones ideal for multitaskers.

Pros:

Industry-leading noise cancellation.
Long battery life (up to 24 hours).
Comfortable for extended wear.

Cons:

Higher price point.
Slight audio lag compared to wired options.

Best For: Podcasters who prioritize mobility.

Price Range: $$$

4. Best Wired Earbuds: Shure SE215

Shure’s SE215 earbuds are compact yet powerful, providing great sound isolation in a portable design. They’re perfect for podcasters who need a lightweight option. Featuring a snug fit and replaceable cables, these earbuds are ideal for podcasters who travel frequently.

Despite their small size, the SE215 delivers a detailed sound signature, ensuring clarity during playback. Their sound-isolating design blocks out ambient noise, making them a practical choice for mobile recording. These earbuds also come with a range of ear tip options, ensuring a customized and secure fit for every user. While they’re not as comfortable for long sessions as over-ear headphones, their portability and sound precision make up for this limitation.

Pros:

Exceptional sound isolation.
Replaceable cables extend product life.
Compact and travel-friendly.

Cons:

Limited bass response.
Not ideal for prolonged use due to in-ear design.

Best For: Podcasters who need a portable solution.

Price Range: $$

5. Best for Comfort: Sennheiser HD 560S

Known for its lightweight design and plush ear pads, the Sennheiser HD 560S is ideal for long editing or recording sessions. These open-back headphones are perfect for podcasters who spend hours fine-tuning their audio.

The HD 560S provides a natural and neutral sound profile, ensuring accurate audio reproduction. Its breathable ear cups prevent overheating during extended use, making it one of the most comfortable options available. However, the open-back design means sound leakage can be an issue, making these better suited for quiet environments. The wide frequency response also ensures excellent bass performance and high-frequency clarity, making them a great choice for detailed sound analysis.

Pros:

Natural sound profile perfect for editing.
Extremely comfortable for prolonged wear.
Durable and lightweight build.

Cons:

Open-back design allows sound leakage.
Not suitable for noisy environments.

Best For: Long recording or editing sessions.

Price Range: $$

6. Best for Portability: JBL Quantum 100

Lightweight and compact, the JBL Quantum 100 offers solid sound quality at an affordable price. Its intuitive controls and detachable microphone make it a versatile option for podcasters who value simplicity.

Though primarily marketed for gamers, the Quantum 100 offers a surprisingly balanced audio profile that works well for podcasting. The detachable mic ensures flexibility, while the memory foam ear pads provide adequate comfort for short to medium recording sessions. The headphones are particularly appealing for podcasters who need an affordable, multi-use headset that travels well.

Pros:

Lightweight and travel-friendly.
Clear audio for recording.
Detachable microphone for flexibility.

Cons:

Limited durability compared to higher-end models.
Lacks advanced features like ANC.

Best For: Podcasters on the go.

Price Range: $

7. Best for Versatility: Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO

With a robust build and exceptional sound clarity, the Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO is perfect for both recording and editing. Its closed-back design ensures effective noise isolation, making it a reliable choice for professional setups.

Known for their studio-grade performance, these headphones excel in delivering detailed audio across all frequencies. The padded headband and ear cups ensure comfort during long hours of use. While their bulky design may not appeal to everyone, their ability to accurately reproduce sound makes them indispensable for professional podcasters and editors.

Pros:

Durable construction.
Excellent sound isolation.
Comfortable for extended use.

Cons:

Slightly bulky design.
Non-detachable cable limits flexibility.

Best For: Versatile use in professional settings.

Price Range: $$

8. Best High-End: Audeze LCD-X

For podcasters seeking unmatched audio quality, the Audeze LCD-X offers premium sound and comfort. These planar magnetic headphones provide incredible clarity, making them ideal for high-stakes editing and production.

The LCD-X delivers an expansive soundstage and unparalleled audio detail, making it the top choice for audiophiles and professionals. While the headphones are heavier than most, their plush ear pads and adjustable headband ensure a comfortable fit. The luxury price tag is justified by their performance, especially for podcasters who require top-tier accuracy and immersion.

Pros:

Superior sound accuracy.
Comfortable padding for long sessions.
Luxurious build quality.

Cons:

Very high price point.
Heavy compared to other options.

Best For: Professional podcasters and audiophiles.

Price Range: $$$$

9. Best Open-Back Option: AKG K240 Studio

Known for their semi-open design, the AKG K240 Studio headphones offer a spacious soundstage perfect for mixing and editing. Their lightweight build ensures comfort, even during extended sessions.

The semi-open design strikes a balance between natural sound reproduction and some level of noise isolation. These headphones are particularly useful for editing in quiet environments, where sound leakage won’t disturb others. Additionally, their affordability and reliability make them a staple for podcasters seeking quality on a budget.

Pros:

Spacious and natural sound.
Comfortable and lightweight.
Affordable price point.

Cons:

Minimal noise isolation.
Limited bass response.

Best For: Editing and mixing in quiet environments.

Price Range: $

10. Best Noise-Canceling: Sony WH-1000XM5

The Sony WH-1000XM5 excels in delivering high-quality audio and effective noise cancellation. Its long battery life and wireless capabilities make it an excellent choice for mobile podcasters.

The XM5’s advanced noise-canceling technology ensures complete immersion, even in noisy settings. The headphones’ sound profile is customizable through the Sony Headphones Connect app, allowing podcasters to tailor their experience. Combined with its sleek design and extended battery life, the XM5 is a top-tier option for podcasters who demand flexibility and convenience.

Pros:

Industry-leading noise cancellation.
Clear and balanced sound.
Long battery life (up to 30 hours).

Cons:

Expensive compared to alternatives.
Slightly less durable than other options.

Best For: Recording and editing in noisy environments.

Price Range: $$$

11. Best All-Rounder: Logitech G Pro X

Balancing performance and price, the Logitech G Pro X features Blue Voice technology for enhanced microphone clarity, making it a great option for podcasting and gaming alike.

The G Pro X offers excellent versatility, with memory foam ear pads ensuring comfort and a detachable mic for added flexibility. While its sound profile is slightly geared towards gaming, its clarity and precision make it a strong contender for podcasting. The robust construction and integrated microphone controls further enhance its appeal for multipurpose use.

Pros: