Ever feel like finding the perfect pair of wired headphones is harder than it should be? Maybe you are tired of wireless models dying mid-song, dealing with Bluetooth lag during games, or just missing that pure, uninterrupted sound only a cable can give. I get it. Good wired headphones are making a comeback for a reason.
They deliver reliability, richer audio, and zero charging headaches. So, whether you are an audiophile chasing every detail or just someone who wants music to feel alive, this list of the 10 best wired headphones of 2025 has your next favorite pair waiting.
Top 10 Best Wired Headphones to Buy
When it comes to pure, uninterrupted sound, wired headphones still hold a special place in my heart. I have tested countless wireless models over the years, and while they are convenient, nothing matches the clarity and depth of a well‑built wired pair.
I still remember plugging in my first set of audiophile headphones. Suddenly, I could hear subtle guitar strings, background echoes, and little details I had never noticed before. That’s the magic wired headphones bring.
So, if you are ready to upgrade your listening experience, let’s get into the 10 best wired headphones of 2025 and see which one suits your style.
1. Sennheiser HD 660S2
If you are chasing pure and detailed sound, the Sennheiser HD 660S2 is your ticket to audio bliss. These open‑back headphones create a wide, airy soundstage that makes your music feel alive. They are perfect for critical listening or just sinking into your favorite tracks.
With soft velour pads, long sessions stay comfortable without any risk of headphone dents, and the bass extension is better than previous models. Just remember that they shine brightest with a headphone amp or DAC. It is like giving your ears a front‑row seat to the music.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Exceptional clarity and detail | Requires a headphone amp for best performance |
| Wide and immersive soundstage | |
| Comfortable velour ear pads | |
| Durable and lightweight design | |
| Improved bass over previous models |
2. Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X
The DT 900 Pro X is your go‑to if you want studio‑level clarity without spending a fortune. These open‑back cans deliver crisp highs, clean mids, and tight bass, which makes them awesome for mixing or enjoying detailed tracks.
I love how comfortable they are for long sessions, when connected to gaming PCs, due to plush pads and a lightweight build. The detachable cables and replaceable parts mean they will last for years. Even from a laptop or phone, they sound surprisingly lively and engaging.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Accurate and detailed sound | Open-back leaks sound |
| Comfortable for long sessions | |
| Replaceable parts and detachable cables | |
| Low distortion even at high volumes | |
| Works well without high-end amp |
3. Grado SR325x
The Grado SR325x is like stepping back into vintage audio heaven with a modern twist. These on‑ear, open‑back headphones give music a sparkling, detailed character that makes guitars and vocals shine.
They are lightweight, have a retro charm, and let you feel close to the sound. Sure, they leak sound, so they are best for home or office use. But if you want intimate, lively listening sessions with incredible clarity, these are an absolute treat for any music fan.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Sparkling, lively sound | On-ear fit can be less comfy for long sessions |
| Retro, lightweight design | |
| Excellent for vocals and guitars | |
| Open, airy soundstage | |
| Hand-assembled with solid build |
4. Fiio FT5
The Fiio FT5 is the next name among the best wired headphones in 2025. It brings planar magnetic magic to a more affordable price point. Its large 90 mm planar drivers deliver clean, detailed audio with punchy bass and sparkling highs.
If you have never tried planar headphones, this is a fantastic entry as it is great for both casual and critical listening. I also love how versatile it is, with multiple cable options for balanced or unbalanced setups. Plus, the build feels premium without the sky‑high cost.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Planar magnetic drivers with rich detail | Slightly bulky for portable use |
| Punchy bass and clear highs | |
| Multiple cable options for versatility | |
| Premium look and solid build | |
| Great value for planar sound |
5. Austrian Audio Hi‑X20
Looking for great sound without draining your wallet? The Austrian Audio Hi‑X20 hits that perfect budget‑friendly sweet spot. These over‑ear headphones are comfortable for long listening sessions, with a natural and balanced tuning that works across all genres.
They are sturdy, lightweight, and perfect for students, beginners, or anyone wanting clear audio on a budget, unlike the Apple Over Ear headphones, which are too expensive. While they don’t offer extreme bass thump, their detail and clarity are impressive at this price. A solid everyday wired companion for music lovers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Budget-friendly with great sound quality | Bass may feel light for bass lovers |
| Balanced, natural tuning | |
| Lightweight and comfortable | |
| Sturdy and durable design | |
| Ideal for long listening sessions |
6. Meze Audio Liric
The Meze Liric is a luxury listening experience in a closed‑back design. If you want rich, immersive sound without leaking audio to the room, these are a dream. The technique is stunning, due to premium materials, comfortable padding, and a solid yet elegant build.
Sonically, they deliver deep, controlled bass with crisp highs and a beautifully warm midrange. Pair them with a good amp, and they will turn any listening session into a private concert. It is high‑end audio you can take anywhere.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Luxurious build and premium materials | Pricey for casual listeners |
| Deep, controlled bass | |
| Warm and immersive sound | |
| Closed-back for private listening | |
| Extremely comfortable for long sessions |
7. Focal Stellia
The Focal Stellia is where luxury meets high‑end sound in a closed‑back design. These headphones deliver a rich, detailed, and dynamic audio experience, perfect for anyone who wants audiophile‑level quality without disturbing others. Owing to these features, it is one of the best tech gadgets for students.
The leather and metal construction feels as premium as it looks, and the comfort is top‑notch for long listening sessions. They handle every genre beautifully, with tight bass, lively mids, and sparkling highs. If you want an exclusive, private listening experience, Stellia is pure indulgence.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ultra-high-end sound quality | Extremely expensive |
| Stunning design with premium materials | |
| Excellent closed-back isolation | |
| Works beautifully across all genres | |
| Plush and comfortable fit |
8. Shanling HW600
If comfort and spacious sound are your top priorities, the Shanling HW600 is a fantastic choice. These open‑back headphones have roomy earcups and a lightweight frame. These aspects make them ideal for longer listening sessions, especially if you have a larger head. And that’s the reason I have placed it among the best wired headphones.
The soundstage is wide and airy, giving music a natural, almost “live performance” feel. They pair well with both casual listening and instrumental tracks where detail matters. Comfortable, balanced, and immersive, these headphones make extended listening a joy.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Spacious and airy soundstage | Open-back leaks sound |
| Very comfortable for larger heads | |
| Natural and balanced tuning | |
| Lightweight and breathable design | |
| Great for instrumental and acoustic music |
9. RODE NTH‑100
The RODE NTH‑100 is a content creator’s dream. Whether you are podcasting, streaming, or mixing, these closed‑back headphones offer a neutral, accurate sound that lets you hear every detail. They are super comfortable with cooling‑gel pads, and the design is built to last with replaceable parts.
Even after hours of use, they do not feel heavy or fatiguing. If you want a reliable wired pair for both professional and casual work, the NTH‑100 strikes a perfect balance between clarity and comfort. Further, its over-ear design is so catchy that it makes it a preferred choice among top over-ear headphones of 2025.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Neutral and accurate sound | Limited bass punch for casual listeners |
| Ideal for podcasting and content creation | |
| Cooling-gel pads for comfort | |
| Durable with replaceable parts | |
| Closed-back for noise isolation |
10. SoundMagic E11C
Lastly, I am placing the SoundMagic E11C among the best wired headphones. This product proves that great sound does not have to cost a fortune. These wired in‑ear headphones deliver surprisingly punchy bass and clear mids, perfect for everyday listening. They come with an inline remote and mic.
Thus, it makes them handy for calls and music control on the go. Lightweight and comfortable, they are easy to wear for hours without fatigue. If you just want a simple, reliable, and great‑sounding wired option without spending big, the E11C is a fantastic pick.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable with great sound | Cable can tangle easily |
| Punchy bass and clear mids | |
| Inline remote and mic included | |
| Lightweight and portable | |
| Comfortable for long listening |
Final Thoughts
And there you have it, about the 10 best wired headphones of 2025 that prove sometimes, the old-school way is still the best way. Wired headphones give you reliability, zero latency, and sound quality that truly makes your music come alive.
Whether you are an audiophile, a gamer, a podcaster, or just someone who wants every beat to hit perfectly, there’s a pair here for you. Personally, switching back to wired for my late‑night music sessions reminded me why I fell in love with pure sound in the first place.
So what are you waiting for? Pick the pair that matches your vibe, and enjoy music without compromise.
People Also Ask
1. Why are my wired headphones not working?
Check if the headphone jack or cable is damaged, ensure it’s fully plugged in, and clean the port. Try another device to confirm if the issue is with the headphones or the phone.
2. Are wired headphones safer than wireless?
Yes, wired headphones don’t emit wireless signals like Bluetooth, which makes them generally safer for long-term use.
3. Do wired headphones emit radiation?
No, wired headphones do not emit radiation. They simply transmit audio signals through a cable.
4. Why won’t my wired headphones connect to my phone?
Modern phones may lack a headphone jack. You might need a compatible adapter, or your headphone port/cable may be faulty.
