Headphones

Best Neckband Headphones of 2023: Our Top Picks

Michael Steffensky

Looking at the market, there is a wide variety of headset models, and they all differ depending on whether you are looking for great comfort, an immersive audio experience, or optimal compatibility. If you are someone who is always on the go but wants to invest in a portable and convenient pair, then neckband headphones are a perfect option.

To help you distinguish between those that are worth your money and those that are either too expensive or lack audio quality, we have created a list of the best neckband headphones. Let's take a look!

Comparison Chart

Philips Performance PN402BK

Sony Premium WI1000X/B

Sennheiser HD1

Neckband Headphones Reviews

Philips Performance PN402BK

When it comes to reliable neckband headphones, it is impossible not to mention Phillips. As a brand that has been on the market for decades, they did a fantastic job with this product. It is offered at an affordable price, and it provides great connectivity and innovative features that will help those who are always on their feet.

Review

Unlike surround sound headphones that are highlighted by an over-ear design, these go into the ear. However, comfort isn’t sacrificed, as the memory foam ear cups and slender neckband allow you to wear them for hours without any negative effects.

The IPX4 waterproof construction is the main reason why these can be exposed to some moisture without any damage occurring to the sound or the headphone’s hardware. The battery offers 14 hours of continuous use, and if you want to get 2 more hours of battery life, all it takes is a 5-minute rapid charge.

These headphones are Bluetooth-compatible, and you can connect them to a tablet, smartphone, and even a desktop computer as long as it supports such a system. For audio clarity, you can thank the 12.2mm neodymium drivers. They may not offer fantastic bass, but they block any echoes and allow you to hear precisely what the other party is saying.

Lastly, we love the vibration feature, as it will alert you whenever you are receiving a call even if the sound is off. Again, the bass isn’t impressive, but you probably won’t be using these to listen to music often, so we consider this Phillips model to be worth it.

PROS

  • Reasonable price
  • Comfortable neckband
  • Vibration feature
  • Clear audio
  • Bluetooth pairing

CONS

  • Unimpressive bass

Sony Premium WI1000X/B

Moving on with the list of the best neckband headphones, this WI1000X/B model is one of the most desirable choices, especially if you want the optimal combination of clear audio and atmospheric pressure optimization. Highlighted by Smart Listening Technology and simple connectivity to iOS and Android devices, it is one of the most innovative neckband headphones on the market.

Review

The first feature that we were impressed by is the Sony app that will allow you to enjoy automatic optimization of the ambient sound that is surrounding you. Thus, you will be able to hear what someone is saying through the earphones, as well as what is happening around you, without taking the headset off.

The frequency response is set between 20,000 and 40,000 Hz and is supported by intuitive sensitivity that is at 101dB/mW. These work together to provide accurate, clean audio that is much-needed for business and conference calls. The DSEE HX, S-Master HX, and LDAC are all features that contribute to the quality of these neckband headphones that support different audio formats, including aptX, aptX HD, and SBC.

Lastly, the vibration feature will help you stay aware of any incoming calls. The concern that we have regarding this product is the level of comfort that is nowhere near as good as the aforementioned Phillips Performance headset. Still, given its supreme functionality, we consider this Sony Premium model to be a great choice!

PROS

  • Precise audio
  • Reliable Bluetooth pairing
  • Smart Listening
  • Ambient optimization
  • Vibration feature

CONS

  • Not very comfortable

Sennheiser HD1

If you are on a more flexible budget, and you are looking to get an intuitive pair of headphones that will meet both your professional and private needs, this is a great choice. It is highlighted by many details, including reliable Bluetooth 4.1 pairing, as well as Qualcomm Apt-X and AAC. This model also offers NFC one-touch and multi-device connectivity. All of these features work together to provide you a pair of functional and precise audio headphones.

Review

One of the most important points when it comes to neckband headphones is comfort. Luckily, these are highlighted by sheepskin Nappa leather, as well as cushioned ear-cups that should help you talk for hours without feeling any discomfort.

The aforementioned AAC codec support, as well as reliable Bluetooth pairing, is responsible for offering you crystal-clear audio, as well as stable wireless transmission. Yes, the battery life of 10 hours isn’t as impressive given the price that you are paying for these headphones, but the charge time of 1.5 hours isn’t too shabby.

It is highlighted by a wide frequency response from 15,000 to 22,000 Hz, as well as suitable sensitivity that is set at 121 TR to 44 dB V/Pa. The two features that we were most impressed by have to be the three-way calling option, as well as being able to pair multiple devices at the same time.

While there is some room for improvement regarding the battery life and bass power, we consider these to be a fine choice for any true professional.

PROS

  • Fantastic comfort
  • Two-way connectivity
  • Crystal-clear audio
  • Optimal transmission
  • Multiple audio formats
  • 2-year warranty

CONS

  • Bass could be more powerful
  • Shorter battery life than other options

FINAL VERDICT

At the end of the day, it all comes down to what you are looking for. If it is an affordable pair of neckband headphones and you don’t mind the somewhat lower bass, then the Phillips Performance PN402BK is the way to go.

On the other hand, for those of you who are looking to get even more comfort and audio quality, the Sennheiser HD1 should be suitable - yes, it is pricier, but is sure to last you for years to come!

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