Our Guide to On Ear vs Over Ear Headsets
February 14, 2023
When it comes to on ear vs over ear headsets, we get asked about the difference all the time. So we’re going to break it down in simple terms. Both types of headsets are useful for people who work in the office or work from home, as they both feature noise cancelling microphones that help you communicate more clearly and can help reduce distractions from background noise. Both types of headsets offer models with Bluetooth so you don’t have to sacrifice your wireless freedom, and the only difference between them is the way they sit on your ears. We’ll be comparing the two types of headsets based on several (highly scientific and super important) criteria: comfort and weight, sound quality, active noise cancelling abilities, how good the noise cancelling mic is, and voice quality. By the end of this article, you should be a pro on the differences between these types of headsets and be able to make an informed decision about which one is best for your needs. We will also explore in detail 10 of the best on ear and over ear headsets to buy in 2023.
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What's the Difference Between On Ear and Over Ear Headsets?
On ear headsets, also known as supra-aural headsets (in super nerdy circles), are designed to sit on top of the ear rather than completely enclosing it. These headsets are often smaller and more lightweight than over ear headsets, which makes them much more portable and easier to wear for extended periods of time. They’re also great for people with small ears! On ear headsets can be more comfortable for some people because they don't press as firmly against the head and ears as over ear headsets do. And at the end of the day, you want a headset to be comfortable as you’ll be wearing it most of your work day.
Over ear headsets, also known as circum-aural headsets (in those same circles), completely cover the ears and are usually larger and heavier than on ear headsets. A lot of people find these to be more comfortable for long periods of wear because they distribute the weight of the headset more evenly around the head and ears. Over ear headsets also have the advantage of providing better noise isolation due to the way they naturally cover the ears, so they’re much more effective at blocking out external noise. We refer to this as passive noise cancelling, and we have a blog article that goes over the differences between passive and active noise cancelling.
Both on ear and over ear headsets can be wired or wireless, and they come in a variety of styles, though the most common style is over the head with a headband. The type of headset that is right for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs, as well as the specific features and capabilities of each type. Now let’s briefly go over the good, the bad, and the ugly of each type of headset.
On ear headsets are usually smaller and lighter than over ear headsets, making them more portable and easier to pack and carry around. They’ll fit easily in any bag, just chuck them in and you’re good to go. They're also more comfortable to some people as they don't press as firmly against the head and ears as over ear headsets do. On the other hand, over ear headsets are larger and heavier, thus making them less portable. But they have the advantage of better noise isolation due to the way they cover the ears, and this allows them to block out more external noise than on ear headsets. The larger size and weight of these headsets also allows them larger drivers, which means they are capable of delivering deeper bass when listening to music. Audiophiles and bass-heads will generally prefer over ear headsets for this reason alone.
What are the Best On Ear and Over Ear Headsets in 2024?
Let's dive straight into the meat and potatoes of this post: the best on ear and over ear headsets you can buy today. We've tested literally hundreds of headsets and compiled this list on a number of key criteria, including comfort and weight, sound quality, active noise cancelling ability, noise cancelling mic performance, and overall voice quality. We will be comparing a range of headsets from different brands to help you find the perfect headset for your needs. Whether you are looking for a comfortable and lightweight headset for all-day wear, a headset with excellent sound quality for listening to music, one with active noise cancelling for immersive listening, or a headset with a high-quality noise cancelling mic for clear and reliable communication, we have you covered.
- Most Comfortable On Ear Headset - Jabra Engage 75
- Most Comfortable Over Ear Headset - EPOS Sennheiser Adapt 660
- Best Sound Quality On Ear Headset - Jabra Engage 65
- Best Sound Quality Over Ear Headset - Jabra Evolve2 85
- Best Active Noise Cancelling On Ear Headset - Plantronics Blackwire 8225
- Best Active Noise Cancelling Over Ear Headset - EPOS Sennheiser Adapt 660
- Best Noise Cancelling Mic On Ear Headset - EPOS Sennheiser IMPACT SC 660
- Best Noise Cancelling Mic Over Ear Headset - Jabra Evolve2 85
- Best Voice Quality On Ear Headset - EPOS Sennheiser IMPACT SC 660
- Best Voice Quality Over Ear Headset - Jabra Evolve2 85
Comfort and Weight
Both types of headsets differ in terms of comfort and weight, which can be important factors to consider when choosing a headset.
On ear headsets are more portable and comfortable to wear for long periods of time because they are often smaller and lighter than over ear headsets. They may be more comfortable for certain people because they don't press as hard against the head and ears as do over-ear headsets. On ear headsets may not offer as much noise isolation or external noise blockage because they do not entirely envelop the ear, which might be a downside for some people.
On the other hand, over ear headsets are typically bigger and heavier than on ear headsets. They are made to completely surround the ear, which improves noise isolation and blocks out more outside sounds. Because the weight of the headset is distributed more equally over the head and ears, they are also more comfortable for prolonged usage. Over ear headphones, however, could be less portable and more uncomfortable to use for some people due to their size and weight.
In the end, your personal preferences and needs will determine whether you choose an over-ear or an on-ear headset. On-ear headphones may be preferred by some because to their less weight and more portable design, whilst over-ear headphones may be preferred by others due to their superior comfort and noise isolation.
Most Comfortable On Ear Headset
Jabra Engage 75
24%
Off
RRP: $659
Now:
$498
inc GST
Save: $161
- WORKS WITH - Desk Phone + PC + Mobile (2)
- Headband style - 2 earcups
- Easy Mute Buttons
- 13 hour talk time
The Jabra Engage 75 is as comfy as they come in the world of professional headsets. It weighs just 90 grams, making it one of the lightest headsets on the market. This low weight can help reduce fatigue and make it easier to wear the headset for extended periods of time.
In terms of comfort, the Jabra Engage 75 features a padded headband and soft ear cushions that are designed to provide a secure and comfortable fit. The headband is adjustable, so you can find the perfect fit for your head size and shape. The ear cushions are made of soft, breathable material that helps to reduce heat and moisture buildup, making them comfortable to wear even in warm environments.
Overall, the Jabra Engage 75 is a comfortable headset that is well-suited for office and home use. Its low weight and padded headband and ear cushions make it an excellent choice for professionals who need a headset that is comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
Most Comfortable Over Ear Headset
Sennheiser EPOS Adapt 660
12%
Off
RRP: $675
Now:
$594
inc GST
Save: $81
- WORKS WITH - PC + Mobile/li>
- MS Teams Certified
- Active Noise Cancelling
- Premium model
The Sennheiser EPOS Adapt 660 is a high-end headset that feels like wearing clouds over your ears. It weighs 227 grams, which is significantly heavier than the Jabra Engage 75 (which weighs 90 grams), but this helps it feel more premium and robust. While the extra weight may make the Sennheiser EPOS Adapt 660 less portable than the Jabra Engage 75, it can also help to distribute the weight of the headset more evenly around the head and ears, making it more comfortable for long periods of use.
One of the standout features of the Sennheiser EPOS Adapt 660 is its large and cushioned ear cups, which covers the ears nicely and provide excellent noise isolation and blocking out external noise. They are also padded with soft, breathable material that helps to reduce heat and moisture build up, making them comfortable to wear even in warm environments.
Overall, the Sennheiser EPOS Adapt 660 is a comfortable headset that is well-suited for office and home use. Its large and cushioned ear cups and padded headband make it an excellent choice for professionals who need a headset that is comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. While it is heavier than the Jabra Engage 75, the extra weight may be worth it for the added comfort and noise isolation.
Sound Quality
Both types of headsets can provide good sound quality, but there may be some differences between the two in terms of the overall audio experience.
The sound quality of on ear headsets may suffer as a result of their smaller size and lighter weight compared to over ear headsets. They also have smaller drivers, meaning they might not have the same level of bass response or noise isolation, which is something to consider if these are especially important to you.
Conversely, over-ear headphones completely cover the ear, which can improve bass response and noise isolation. Because of this, they may be a better option for those seeking a more immersive listening experience or who are addicted to bass. Over-ear headphones are an excellent option for those who seek the highest sound quality possible because they frequently contain larger drivers and other parts that can produce a more dynamic and detailed soundscape.
Ultimately, the choice between on ear and over ear headsets will depend on your personal preferences and the type of audio content you listen to. Both types of headsets can provide good sound quality, but over ear headphones may be a better choice for people who want a more immersive listening experience or who enjoy bass-heavy music.
Best Sound Quality On Ear Headset
Jabra Engage 65
17%
Off
RRP: $529
Now:
$438
inc GST
Save: $91
- WORKS WITH - Desk Phone + PC
- Stereo Headband Style
- Built in busy light
- Easy Mute buttons
- Up to 13 Hour Talk Time
The Jabra Engage 65 is no slouch when it comes to sound quality. It features high-quality drivers and other components that let it thrive in any listening or speaking environment.
When it comes to the mic (what other people hear), the Jabra Engage 65 boasts a noise cancelling microphone that is designed to reduce background noise and ensure clear and natural sounding speech. The microphone also features wind noise protection, which will come in handy when you’re trying to close an important deal outside on a super windy day (hey, it happens!)
In terms of the ear cups (what you hear), the Jabra Engage 65 provides a rich and detailed sound that will suit a variety of audio applications. Voice calls? No problem. Podcasts and music? No sweat! The Engage 65 features a dynamic equaliser that automatically adjusts the sound to suit the type of audio you are listening to, and it has a wide frequency response that covers the entire audible range. This allows you to enjoy music, movies, and any other audio you like in high definition, with clear and accurate sound across all frequencies.
Overall, the Jabra Engage 65 is a high-quality headset that provides excellent sound quality both ways. Its noise cancelling microphone and dynamic equaliser make it an excellent choice for any office worker or work from homer who need a reliable headset that just sounds great all the time.
Best Sound Quality Over Ear Headset
Jabra Evolve2 85
27%
Off
RRP: $725
Now:
$530
inc GST
Save: $195
- WORKS WITH - PC + MOBILE
- Active Noise Cancelling
- 360* Busylight
- Premium headset
The Jabra Evolve2 85 is a snazzy headset that is built for excellent sound quality and clear communication. Just like the Engage 65, this headset features high-quality drivers that provide a crisp and nuanced sound for a wide range of audio content.
In terms of audio input (the mic), the Jabra Evolve2 85 features a noise cancelling microphone that reduces background noise and ensures your voice sounds the best it possibly can. It also has the same wind cancelling ability as the Engage 65, so you no longer need to fear taking calls outside on windy days. Phew!
In terms of audio output (the ear cups), the Jabra Evolve2 85 provides a rich and detailed soundstage that is well-suited for music, movies, podcasts, audiobooks, you name it. It has a wide frequency response that covers the entire audible range, and it features a dynamic equaliser that automatically adjusts the sound to suit the type of audio you are listening to. This allows you to enjoy your audio content in high definition, with clear and accurate sound across all frequencies.
Overall, the Jabra Evolve2 85 is a high-quality headset that provides excellent sound quality, both for listening and for speaking. Its noise cancelling microphone and dynamic equaliser make it an excellent choice for professionals who need a headset that delivers clear and reliable communication. Did we also mention it looks great on you?
Active Noise Cancelling
A wide variety of headsets offer Active Noise Cancelling, but there may be some differences between the two types of headsets in terms of their noise cancelling ability.
First, you should consider if Active Noise Cancelling is actually what you are looking for, or if you are confusing it for noise cancelling mics. Because noise cancelling mics mean that people you're on a call with won't hear your noisy background, while Active Nosie Cancelling means you won't hear your noisy background. There's a key difference there and people mix the two up all the time. Some people don't want to block out the background noise, as they like to be able to hear the wind outside the window, or their colleagues quietly chatting away in the background. But others work much more productively when there's no external noise, so be sure yo consider what type of worker you are and what your needs are before making a purchase based on noise cancelling capabilities. We have an in depth article on noise cancelling headsets that goes into further detail about the topic.
Best Active Noise Cancelling On Ear Headset
Plantronics Blackwire 8225
14%
Off
RRP: $320
Now:
$274
inc GST
Save: $46
- WORKS WITH - PC/ MAC (USB)
- ACTIVE Noise Cancelling
- Premium sound
- Plug and Play Solution
So far we have been looking at wireless headsets, but let's not forget the trusty wired headset The Blackwire 8225 from Plantronics is one of the few corded headsets that has Active Noise Cancelling, which greatly reduces external noise in your environment. Ans since it's wired, you get the benefits of ANC without the price tag of Bluetooth headsets, and it's plug and play convenient without needing to worry about keeping it charged.
The active noise cancelling technology of the Plantronics Blackwire 8225 is designed to be effective across a wide range of frequencies, from low-frequency noises like the hum of an aeroplane engine to high-frequency noises like office chatter. It uses a combination of passive noise isolation and active noise cancelling to block out noise, and it can be adjusted to suit your specific noise reduction needs.
Overall, the Plantronics Blackwire 8225 is a high-quality headset that provides excellent active noise cancelling performance. Its microphones and algorithms are designed to effectively cancel out external noise, helping to improve the clarity of your audio and reduce distractions. If you need a headset that is specifically designed for noise reduction, and you don't mind the wires, the Plantronics Blackwire 8225 is an excellent choice.
Best Active Noise Cancelling Over Ear Headset
EPOS Sennheiser Adapt 660
12%
Off
RRP: $675
Now:
$594
inc GST
Save: $81
- WORKS WITH - PC + Mobile/li>
- MS Teams Certified
- Active Noise Cancelling
- Premium model
The EPOS Sennheiser Adapt 660 makes the list again thanks to its great Active Noise Cancelling performance. It's adjustable so you can control how much noise cancellation goes on, and works in tandem with the large ear cups, which helps block out even more noise than an on ear ANC headset such as the Blackwire 8225.
Overall, the EPOS Sennheiser Adapt 660 is a high-quality headset that provides excellent active noise cancelling performance. Its ANC makes short work of outside noise, helping you to cut down and distractions and get to work. If you have a burning dislike of noise and distraction, then the Adapt 660 will be your secret weapon.
One thing to consider is The EPOS Sennheiser Adapt 660 is an over ear headset that is designed to completely enclose the ear, providing better noise isolation and a more immersive listening experience. The Plantronics Blackwire 8225 is an on ear headset that sits on top of the ear, which may not provide as much noise isolation as the EPOS Sennheiser Adapt 660. This can affect the overall effectiveness of the active noise cancelling performance of each headset.
Noise Cancelling Mic
All types of headsets can have noise cancelling microphones, but not all noise cancelling mics are created equally. There's even a quote about it in a famous book: 'all microphones are equal, but some are more equal than others'. At least we think that's how it goes.
For the best noise cancelling performance, you want one with a boom arm microphone that extends from the headset. This type of microphone is designed to sit close to your mouth and can be more effective at capturing your voice and cancelling out external noise than built-in microphones that are located on the ear cups. This is because the closer the mic is to your mouth, the easier it will be for it to recognise the difference between your voice and background noise. Luckily most headsets feature this, however, some over ear headsets have integrated microphones that are not on boom arms, which can be less effective at cancelling noise depending on how noisy your office or work from home set up is.
Best Noise Cancelling Mic On Ear Headset
EPOS Sennheiser Impact SC 660
12%
Off
RRP: $279
Now:
$246
inc GST
Save: $33
- Premium sound quality
- Wideband audio
- ULTRA noise cancelling mic.
- Leatherette ear cushion
The Impact SC 660 from EPOS Sennheiser is a solid pick if you're after a high performing microphone. It features a noise cancelling microphone that is designed to reduce background noise and ensure your voice is as clear as a spring day.
The noise cancelling microphone of the EPOS Sennheiser Impact SC 660 is a boom arm microphone that extends from the headset and is designed to be close to the user's mouth. It uses advanced algorithms and techniques to cancel out external noise, helping to improve the clarity of your audio and reduce distractions. The microphone is also equipped with wind noise protection, which helps to reduce wind noise and other distractions when you are talking on the phone or using the headset for other purposes.
Overall, the EPOS Sennheiser Impact SC 660 is a high-quality headset that provides excellent noise cancelling performance from its boom arm microphone. Its advanced algorithms and techniques are designed to effectively cancel out external noise, helping to improve the clarity of your audio and reduce distractions. If you need a headset with a high-quality noise cancelling microphone, the EPOS Sennheiser Impact SC 660 is an excellent choice.
Best Noise Cancelling Mic Over Ear Headset
Jabra Evolve2 85
26%
Off
RRP: $795
Now:
$587
inc GST
Save: $208
- WORKS WITH - PC + MOBILE
- Certified for MS Teams
- Active Noise Cancelling
- 360* Busylight
- Premium headset
The Jabra Evolve2 85 is a super pro headset that has an excellent noise cancelling microphone that only picks up the sound of your voice.
The Jabra Evolve2 85 is one of the few over ear headsets that has a boom arm microphone, allowing you to position it closer top your mouth for the best noise cancelling performance. It also retracts back into the headset so it's not in your way when you're not using it. This gives it extra style points too in our opinion, as it looks like a regular pair of headphones with the mic retracted, making it a great daily driver. The microphone is also equipped with wind noise protection, which helps to reduce wind noise and other distractions when you are talking on the phone or using the headset for other purposes.
Overall, the Jabra Evolve2 85 is a high-quality headset that provides excellent noise cancelling performance from its boom arm microphone. Its advanced algorithms and techniques are designed to effectively cancel out external noise, helping to improve the clarity of your audio and reduce distractions. If you need a headset with a high-quality noise cancelling microphone, don't look past the Jabra Evolve2 85.
Voice Quality
The voice quality between these two types of headsets is largely the same, and comes down again to whether the microphone is a boom style or not, as a boom style microphone can sit closer to your lips and pick up the sound of your voice better. If you want to sound your very best, then check out our two top picks below for best voice quality headsets.
Best Voice Quality On Ear Headset
EPOS Sennheiser Impact SC 660
12%
Off
RRP: $279
Now:
$246
inc GST
Save: $33
- Premium sound quality
- Wideband audio
- ULTRA noise cancelling mic.
- Leatherette ear cushion
The EPOS Sennheiser Impact SC 660 boasts a high-quality microphone that is designed to provide excellent voice quality and reduce background noise.
The microphone of the EPOS Sennheiser Impact SC 660 is a boom arm microphone that extends from the headset and is designed to be close to the user's mouth. It uses advanced algorithms and techniques to cancel out external noise, helping to improve the clarity of your audio and reduce distractions. The microphone is also equipped with wind noise protection, which helps to reduce wind noise and other distractions when you are talking on the phone or using the headset for other purposes.
Overall, the EPOS Sennheiser Impact SC 660 is a high-quality headset that provides excellent voice quality from its boom arm microphone. Its advanced algorithms and techniques are designed to effectively cancel out external noise, helping to improve the clarity of your audio and reduce distractions. If you need a headset with a high-quality microphone that delivers clear and reliable communication, the EPOS Sennheiser Impact SC 660 is a great choice.
Best Voice Quality Over Ear Headset
Jabra Evolve2 85
26%
Off
RRP: $795
Now:
$587
inc GST
Save: $208
- WORKS WITH - PC + MOBILE
- Active Noise Cancelling
- 360* Busylight
- Premium headset
The Evolve2 85 from Jabra makes the list again thanks to its high-quality microphone that provides excellent voice quality and noise cancelling super powers.
One of the unique features of the Jabra Evolve2 85 is that it is one of the only over ear headsets with a boom arm microphone. This type of microphone extends from the headset and is designed to be close to the user's mouth, which can provide better voice quality than built-in microphones that are located on the ear cups. The boom arm microphone of the Jabra Evolve2 85 uses advanced algorithms and techniques to cancel out external noise, helping to improve the clarity of your audio and reduce distractions. It is also equipped with wind noise protection, which helps to reduce wind noise and other distractions when you are talking on the phone or using the headset for other purposes.
Overall, the Jabra Evolve2 85 is a high-quality headset that provides excellent voice quality from its boom arm microphone. Its advanced algorithms and techniques are designed to effectively cancel out external noise, helping to improve the clarity of your audio and reduce distractions. If you need a headset with a high-quality microphone that delivers clear and reliable communication, the Jabra Evolve2 85 is an excellent choice, especially if you prefer an over ear headset with a boom arm microphone.
Looking for Headset solutions?
If you are considering purchasing an new headset, we invite you to visit Simply Headsets, Australia's #1 headset retailer. Simply Headsets offers a wide range of high-quality headsets from leading brands, and their experienced team can help you find the perfect headset to meet your specific needs. Whether you need a headset for the office, at home, or on the go, Simply Headsets has you covered.