Open-Back vs. Closed-Back Headphones: Which Should You Buy?

Studio and audiophile headphones come in two main designs. Choosing the right one depends on where you listen and what you use them for.

Closed-back

• Seal around your ears and block outside noise.
• Keep your music private — great for offices, travel and recording vocals.
• Bass can feel stronger, and the soundstage feels more “inside your head”.

Open-back

• Let air and sound pass through the ear cups.
• Create a wider, more natural soundstage that many people prefer for mixing and long listening sessions.
• People around you can hear your music, and you will hear the room.

What about impedance?

Low-impedance headphones (around 32–80 ohms) are easy to drive from laptops and phones. Higher-impedance models (250 ohms and up) sound their best with a dedicated headphone amplifier or audio interface.

Explore studio, wireless and everyday headphones in Headphones & Earbuds.