What can be better than a readymade list of the best headphones under $500 if you are looking for a good pair of headphones in this price category? Bringing your search to an end, this article features the finest headphones that are definitely worth purchasing. These headphones come with one-on-one features which are going to impress you and will certainly meet your requirements.
The headphones that we have included in our list offer exceptional sound, good connectivity and controls, comfort and portability, hands-free controls and a lot more. Getting your curiosity to an end, let’s have a quick review of these headphones. In case you are looking for something more portable, you may like to read about the Best Wireless Earbuds under $300.
How we picked the best headphones under $500
While shortlisting these headphones, we took special care of certain features which if up to the mark make the headphones excel in performance. Before you purchase a pair of headphones, you must take care of these features. We’ll be describing them briefly.
Sound:
The quality of sound offered by headphones must be clear and immersive. The balance between treble and bass should be optimum. Plus, sound customisation is a great feature. It would be very beneficial if the noise cancellation feature is offered.
Comfort:
You must make sure that the headphones you purchase are ergonomic and comfortable. For that, the tension of the headband should be optimum and the earpads should be well-cushioned. This will let you use the headphones even for long hours.
Connectivity:
You can purchase either wired headphones or wireless headphones. If you want portability and want to remain free from the hassles of wires, then you should go for the wireless options. Wired headphones have an edge when it comes to offering low latency.
Controls:
Look for the controls offered on the headphones. Headphones come with push buttons or touch gestures for control among which the latter is a better choice. Many headphones in this price category also feature voice assistants for hands-free control.
These are the best headphones under $500 in Canada
| Headsets | Drivers | Wireless | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sony WH-1000XM5 | 30mm | Yes | Current Price |
| Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 | 40mm | Yes | Current Price |
| Sennheiser HD 660 S | 42mm | No | Current Price |
1. Sony WH-1000XM5
Amongst the best headphones under $500, we will first talk about the Sony WH-1000XM5. These are wireless headphones which connect through Bluetooth and also offer multipoint connection letting you easily switch between devices. Delivering great sound quality along with noise cancellation, these headphones let you immerse in what’s playing. Using these headphones, you get the freedom to make hands-free calls and it also comes with Alexa voice control. Other than that, touch controls are offered.
Pros
- Performs well.
- Comes with smart ambient features.
- Features a dedicated app.
Cons
- Lacks water resistance.
Specifications:
| Name | Sony WH-1000XM5 |
| Connectivity | Wireless |
| Drivers | 30 mm |
| Weight | 250.04 g |
2. Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700
The next on our list of the best headphones under $500 are the Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700. These headphones not only offer an appreciable sound output but the input of voice through its microphones is also worth praising. You can control these headphones using touch gestures and you can also make use of voice assistants for it. These headphones have an attractive and comfortable build, however, the battery backup is satisfactory. Besides, no folding hinges are provided on these headphones.
Pros
- Noise cancellation is great.
- Sleek build.
- Offers touch gestures and voice assistants for control.
Cons
- Can not be folded.
- Average battery backup.
Specifications:
| Name | Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 |
| Connectivity | Wireless |
| Drivers | 40 mm |
| Weight | 249.48 g |
3. Sennheiser HD 660 S
We also suggest the Sennheiser HD 660 S if you want to purchase a pair of headphones which cost around $500 and offer wired connectivity. These headphones are equipped with two connection cables, including a 3.5mm stereo plug and 4.4mm Pentaconn. Speaking of the sound quality, the mid-range and treble are well-balanced and the bass is also acceptable. These headphones come with good cushioning, however, the band may feel tight to some people. Overall, we do consider them amongst the best headphones under $500.
Pros
- Good sound quality.
- Comfortable.
- Comes with replaceable cables.
Cons
- Average noise isolation.
- Can be tight on some heads.
Specifications:
| Name | Sennheiser HD 660 S |
| Connectivity | Wired |
| Drivers | 42 mm |
| Weight | 263.08 g |
FAQs about the best headphones under $500
Which are the best headphones under $500?
The best headphones under $500 include the Sony WH-1000XM5, the Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 and the Sennheiser HD 660 S.
What factors determine the portability of headphones?
For enhanced portability, the headphones must feature a compact and foldable design and a good battery backup. Wireless headphones are more portable. Water resistance would be an add-on.
What is ANC in headphones?
ANC stands for Active Noise Cancellation and is an important feature in eliminating background noise for more immersive listening.
