Are you a traveler in search of the best foldable headphones, but so far, you’ve been unable to find anything suitable? Despite the many available options, we are here to help you make the right decision. What you need to look for when purchasing portable headphones will be covered in detail in this buyer’s guide.
With the headphones presented in this buyer’s guide, you will have the opportunity to choose from 3 different price categories. You don’t need to waste your valuable time researching portable headphones because we’ve found them for you.
Factors to Consider Before Buying Foldable Headphones
Audio Quality
Music is the primary concern whenever you purchase anything audio-related, and buying headphones without adequate knowledge can buy a pair that doesn’t match your expectations. Consider these factors when choosing headphones:
- Frequency response: Frequency response is perhaps one of the most important aspects to consider since it will determine how many notes can be heard in a song. In general, 20 Hz to 20k Hz is the intended range, so anything beyond that is a bonus.
- Drivers used: In a headset, it is possible to use many different drivers ranging from acoustic to neodymium. More significant drivers produce a more transparent sound. It is crucial, too, how the drivers are configured, and some headphones let you customize the audio to meet your preferences.
- Noise cancelation: A significant disadvantage of headphones is that some allow ambient noise to pass through. If you don’t purchase noise-canceling headsets, you won’t fully immerse yourself in the music. It’s even possible to reduce how much sound is suppressed by most noise-canceling headphones, so they’re suitable for use outside.
Comfort
Your headphones must be comfortable from the headband to the earpads so that you can maximize your music enjoyment. It is essential to learn what materials you like to wear to avoid ruining the experience by wearing tight, uncomfortable leather pads. Further, you can purchase the earpads separately if you do not want the ones that come with the headphones.
Portability
If you need a smaller-sized audio device that is easy to pack, foldable headphones are an excellent option. Putting your headphones away neatly in their carrying case or conveniently storing them with your other things is easy once you’re finished using them.
Additionally, some headphones have foldable earpads that can be turned outward, thus creating a mini speaker. A friend can use this feature when your battery runs out, and you need an audio device.
Durability
The durability of foldable headphones is essential since, most likely, you will be leaving them in a carrying pouch, which will take a lot of abuse. If you are looking for a long-lasting product, consider a little bit expensive headphones, but ensure that you check out the materials used first.
Buying from a reputable manufacturer is another excellent way to ensure that you will get a durable, long-lasting product. Many big-brand headphones come with multiple-year warranties that you can take advantage of whenever a fault occurs. Furthermore, more prominent brands can access higher-quality materials, which makes their products more durable.
Microphone
Almost all headphones come with built-in microphones that can make hands-free calls, which are safe and fast when in public places. A microphone can also be used for receiving calls via Skype on a PC or when gaming.
Several buttons are usually located on the sides of headphones for answering or declining calls. Several functions are available with these buttons, including adjusting volume, pausing/playing music, and skipping tracks.
Best Foldable Headphones Under $200
Have you been looking for high-end, portable headphones, but your budget isn’t as big as you might have hoped? Thus, under $200 is where the best budget options in the market are found. You still get decent audio with these lower prices without any significant problems. If you desire premium-quality audio, however, you would be wise to pay the higher price.
1- Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Headphones
One of the better options for professional studio monitor headphones is the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Headphones, a product that has been praised by top audio engineers and professional audio reviewers. As a result of the ergonomic design, noise is quite effectively isolated from the ear – even in loud environments.
Its collapsible design reduces the headphone size, thus making it convenient to travel with, and its 90-degree swiveling earcups make it easy to monitor one’s listening environment. As a plus, the headband and earpad material is made of professional-grade materials so that you will remain comfortable for a long time.
There are three detachable cables inside the box, each measuring between 1.2 meters and 3 meters long. Different variants can be used for other occasions – the 1.2-meter straight cable could be used when traveling since it is short and convenient and will not get in the way.
In conclusion, these professional studio monitor headphones are an excellent choice for many different activities, such as using them in a studio or traveling.
In addition to saving space when packing, the foldable design means the headphones won’t get ripped. A protective travel case is included, preventing damage. Furthermore, due to the noise reduction, the professionally tuned drivers can produce intense bass. Overall one of the best Collapsible headphones available in the market right now.
[Video Credit – Marques Brownlee]
2- Shure SRH440 Headphones
Shure’s SRH440 headphones have been designed for studio recording and are optimized for this purpose. Despite this, they also make great tools for travel or home use because the cable can be detached and transported easily. It is also more convenient to use at home since the line can be removed and adjusted for TV use.
The 40-millimeter neodymium drivers also optimize listening, so you can listen to the beats with much greater clarity. The headphones’ closed-back design lets you quickly isolate noise, allowing you to focus more on the second. The headphone provides remarkable moments across a wide range of frequencies since it has an enhanced frequency response.
A fully adjustable headband and a collapsible design ensure the user’s comfort and convenience. To ensure long-lasting comfort, the earcups can even be replaced if they tear, which prolongs the product’s life. The headphones will also come with a carrying case for protection when not in use, saving you money because you will not have to purchase one separately.
Therefore, Shure’s SRH440 Professional Studio Headphones will serve you well whether you are in the studio, traveling, or at home watching TV. Since the headphones are closed-back, they are noise-isolating and allow you to enjoy the music and sound fully. The comprehensive frequency response also lends the beats a smoother sound while still playing at higher volumes. If you are looking for the best foldable headphones you should definitely buy this.
[Video Credit – Jake Pool Music]
3- Master & Dynamic MW60 Headphones
MW60 is another excellent example of Master & Dynamic’s design sense, renowned throughout the industry. Premium materials make the headphones look and feel great, and they are beautifully designed. There are several different colors to choose from, so you should find one that fits your style. These headphones are black and have gunmetal highlights.
Those portable headphones are beautifully designed – but how comfortable are they? They are pretty pleased, even if they aren’t perfect. I particularly like the padded ear cups. Together with the relatively superior level of memory foam in the ear cups makes for a highly comfortable experience.
In addition, the headband is pretty comfortable, but it would have been better with a little more padding under it. Despite this fact, the headband is not uncomfortable. It will become apparent to you after you listen to it for a while.
Many companies, including Master & Dynamic, try to disguise poor sound and performance behind an aesthetic design – but that’s not their goal. In addition to looking cool, these headphones sound pretty good too.
The MW60 headphones sound very natural, which was one of the things we loved most about them. That’s not to say that they haven’t been tuned – they have. There have been some subtle changes that sound great.
I would like to start with the bass, which is quite good-sounding. This is not an overbearing headphone, but the sound is robust, with a relatively deep extension.
The battery lasts 16 hours, which is pretty good but not revolutionary. Most headphones like this are rated between 15 and 20 hours, and although Master & Dynamic should have gone as high as 20 hours, 16 hours should still be sufficient for most users.
The Master & Dynamic team has delivered once again a product that sounds and looks incredible. In the end, however, if you’re looking for a fantastic pair of headphones that deliver a powerful sound and look great with any outfit, then these are still excellent – and highly recommended – options. Plus, the premium quality makes them a great choice.
[Video Credit – TheGamingAudiophile]
Best Foldable Headphones Under $300
With a price range under $300, you can find a wide selection of decent portable headphones that are not only durable but also convenient. You can get headphones that have noise-isolating earbuds to let you focus on your music instead of the sounds around you. To save you time, we have found the best mid-priced headphones based on our research.
1- V-MODA Crossfade M-100 Headphones
Audiophiles have rated the V-MODA Crossfade M-100 as having little to no distortion thanks to its tuning by 200 renowned audiophiles. Made with a steel frame and a vegan leather cover, this product has military-level durability. It can be bent over 1 million times as well, which makes it very durable.
A 50 mm dual-diaphragm driver and outer rings keep the bass from bleeding into the mids and highs. For better consistency throughout all types of music, they have been quality tested at six frequencies. Featuring breathtaking bass, unique vocals, and pinpoint highs, 3D soundstage live performances provide a truly immersive experience.
Additionally, the supple memory foam cushions the ears naturally, ensuring an ergonomic fit with exceptional noise isolation. The headband’s exotic materials, such as vegan leather, provide long-lasting comfort as well as a snug fit. CliqFold hinges allow users to fold the headphones into an incredibly slim exoskeleton case that takes up little room, leaving more room for other items. All of these features make it one of the best travel-friendly headphones.
Considering these headphones are made from premium military-level steel and vegan leather, they are one of the most durable products on this list. A cable cord can be bent 100 times more than the industry standard after turning 1 million times. These dual-diaphragm 50 mm driver models deliver outstanding bass and mids that don’t bleed into the highs.
[Video Credit – Jordan Ash]
2- Beats Studio3 Headphones
Beats Studio3 Wireless Headphones are among the better portable headphones out there, thanks to their lightweight design and powerful drivers that offer music of unbelievable quality. The folding design and compact size of these headphones make them ideal for travelers, as they occupy very little space when not in use while providing enough comfort for a long time.
A single charge of the battery will last up to 40 hours. The ANC feature will allow for up to 22 hours of playback. As an added feature, the device also has fast charging when users forget to charge the device, with only 10 minutes of plug-in time resulting in a three-hour playback time.
As another bonus, the long-range connection remains stable up to 30 feet unless objects block it. Within seconds, the Beats Studio3 connects your smartphone to the device via NFC, making the entire process straightforward and quick. Thanks to the connectivity technology, you can also control apps like Siri and make phone calls without touching your phone.
As a result of the high-quality features, Beats Studio3 Wireless Headphones are listed among the best on this list. Battery life is outstanding. It can last up to 40 hours on a single charge and three hours with a short amount of 10 minutes. Furthermore, the headphone folds up, making them much easier to transport – especially when you need that extra space.
[Video Credit – TheGamingAudiophile]
3- Bose QuietComfort 35 Headphones
In terms of active noise cancellation (ANC), Bose has built an enviable reputation. These foldable headphones are the best they have to offer. When you wear them, everything is quiet. Bose QC35’s noise cancellation is unmatched by other headphones that have better sound signatures.
Foldable over-ear headphones like the QuietComfort 35 look sleek and stylish. It features oval earcups padded with plush material. In the summer, they are swathed in faux leather, which keeps them cool. However, the headband does not seem too bulky compared with previous versions. There are numerous controls on the right earcup of these foldable headphones. The arch is padded with fabric-covered cushions. It has multifunctional buttons and volume control. A Bluetooth connection lets them communicate wirelessly. Using the Bose phone app, two wireless devices can be connected simultaneously and played simultaneously. Each machine has a soft carrying case with a zipper. A 3.5mm cable and an airplane adapter are included.
QC35 foldable bluetooth headphones are equipped with Active Noise Cancellation, which is the first thing we tested. Active Noise Cancellation is a powerful technology. The headphones in this list that use Active Noise Cancellation reduce noise significantly more than any other. These headphones are costly due to digital tweaking. Not everyone is going to like that.
Additionally, ANC improves the audio quality of QC35 considerably. It enhances the clarity and sharpness of audio. Wired use also enhances the clarity of audio.
In the audio department, Bose’s foldable headphones don’t disappoint either. There is ample bass here, as well. It is tightly contained, but it is not allowed to taint the midrange. This wide soundstage can accommodate the big bass. Regardless of volume, you get a voluminous sound. There is a lot of detail in the midrange. It may not have as much midrange as the Sennheiser Momentum. It has smoother highs.
[Video Credit – Marques Brownlee]
4- Ultrasone HFI-580 Headphones
There is a deep love/hate relationship between Ultrasone and its audience. Nevertheless, it is the love they are blessed with that has kept them alive. These foldable headphones from HFI-580 are perhaps their most reasonably-priced and popular models. Ultrasone’s S-Logic audio sounds good even after they try to sell us their system.
They are stylish yet still very severe as if they came from Germany. There is deep padding on the oval-shaped earcups. Moderately broad, the headband is padded only in the cranial arch. Even though it weighs 10 ounces, the fit is still comfortable. Its folding arms fit into the turn of the headband, securing the earphones in place. A fixed cable connects these foldable headphones. Its earcups become flat if folded flat around the neck.
Ultrasone says its headphones block 98% of electromagnetic radiation generated by headphones.
A potent bass is present in the HFI-580 foldable headphones, which adds definition to complicated mixes. In this area, there is a slight boost that draws attention. The audio is otherwise fairly neutral and suitable for every type of music. As a result of the S-Logic technology, so-called “Faux-Surround” effects will be produced. HFI-580, however, does not exhibit the same products.
Best Foldable Headphones Under $400
Have you been searching for portable headphones that can deliver great sound even at high volumes? There are many excellent options under $400, but the only downside is the price. Nonetheless, if you don’t mind spending the cash, the options listed below are far superior to those previously mentioned.
1- Master & Dynamic MH40 Headphones
With the MH40 Over-Ear Headphones from Master & Dynamic, you get amazingly balanced highs, warm bass, and clear mids. You can conveniently pack away the headphones when they’re not in use, which is more practical than wearing them around your neck.
Furthermore, the headphones feature heavy-duty materials such as stainless steel and premium leather. Due to the tight seal of the earmuffs in the ear, the headband and earpads provide long-lasting comfort and noise isolation. The parts used are easily replaceable, which is more practical since you don’t have to buy brand-new headphones.
Master & Dynamic’s goal is to provide an unprecedented listening experience, and with custom 45mm neodymium drivers, they accomplish just that. Any genre of music will sound fantastic with this headphone’s strong bass. Furthermore, since there is a wide range of frequencies, the beat sounds much more enhanced, resulting in a better listening experience.
Because of the number of sturdy materials used, including stainless steel and leather, the Master & Dynamic MH40 Over-Ear Headphone ranks as one of the most durable items on this list, also, if the headphone breaks, the parts are removable and replaceable, you can easily replace them.
[Video Credit – Audio Advice]
2- Bowers & Wilkins P7 Headphones
The P7 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones are everything you need if you’re seeking premium-sounding, professional headphones. The headphones deliver pristine audio with no noise or distortion via acoustic technologies developed by B&W.
Further, the battery life of 17 hours is more than sufficient, and the USB cable you receive with the device lets you charge it quickly and reliably. The headphones’ lightweight and sleek design make them a delight to travel with due to their ergonomic folding mechanism. Because aluminum and sheepskin leather is durable materials, any falls with headphones in the case will pose no danger.
The P7 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones also utilize Bluetooth to establish long-lasting connections between devices, and aptX technology will make the audio sound much smoother. Thanks to the added B&W acoustic technologies, the bass will sound terrific with a frequency range of 10 Hz to 20k Hz.
To summarize, the P7 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones are one of the best audio devices to take on the road because of their lightweight foldable design. The carrying case provided is made out of soft material to keep the headphones safe from scratches. Also, the sheepskin leather ear padding is exceptionally comfortable to wear and offers long-lasting comfort for hours on end.
[Video Credit – Booredatwork.com]
3- Beats Solo Pro Headphones
With its premium design and exceptional performance, the Beats Solo Pro is a beautiful pair of Foldable on-ear headphones. There are several appealing color options, active noise cancelation, and long battery life. Discover more about the features of these premium Beats headphones to figure out if they are a good fit.
With the choice of colors, you can create a look that fits your personality. Black, grey, red, dark blue, ivory, and light blue are available color options. It’s an excellent choice for the fashion-conscious since Beats headphones look trendy and have an iconic label.
The battery provides 22 hours of continuous use and up to 40 hours if the active noise canceling is disabled. Furthermore, the battery can be charged in only 10 minutes and provide 3 hours of runtime. For those who have forgotten to charge their headphones and need power fast, it’s great.
This headset’s active noise canceling feature is good enough to deliver an enjoyable listening experience when you’re outdoors. You can use ANC when you travel to work or while you are trying to sleep. Despite this, Bose remains the market leader for ANC.
With just 9 ounces in weight, these headphones are compact and foldable. This makes them ideal for traveling because you don’t feel like you are carrying a heavy bag. You can also easily pack them without much hassle.
There are some pros and cons to the Beats Solo Pro, so be sure to weigh them before you buy. First of all, it can be uncomfortable if you have a large head. Even with some adjustability, you might not be able to fit your head well into these headphones if your head size isn’t right. You may also find that the bass is overpowering, and the headphones lack an EQ to make adjustments.
Therefore, the Beats Solo Pro headphones make a good choice for buyers with a healthy budget. Active noise cancellation and long battery life make these headphones perfect for those on the go. They also come in a variety of colors that you can choose from for a more personalized look. The Beats brand is one of the most reputable headphone brands on earth, so you don’t have to worry about this purchase. It is one of the best options if you are looking for Foldable noise-canceling headphones.
[Video Credit – Marques Brownlee]
Conclusion
Currently, there are plenty of options for foldable headphones to choose from. There are pluses and minuses to most products tailored to your specific needs, so knowing that will be key. Picking the cheapest headphones isn’t the only way to buy folding headphones. Take into account how you listen to music when selecting a product.
In this article, we discussed the top choices for everyone looking to upgrade their old headphones. Our goal with this article is to explain what the market offers and maybe even point you in the direction of the right headphones for you.
When purchasing new folding headphones, choosing the most expensive ones isn’t the only factor to consider.
You may even have found your new headphones after reading this post. We hope that this post has helped you understand what’s available on the market today. We appreciate you taking the time to read.