Best headphones for video editing: the ultimate 2025 guide

Discover the best headphones for video editing in 2025. Compare open-back vs. closed-back, explore top models, and find the perfect balance of sound accuracy, comfort, and value for your editing workflow.
headphone-video-editing

When editing videos, the right pair of headphones is more than just a luxury — it’s a necessity. The ability to hear every detail, nuance, and frequency directly impacts the quality of your edits. Whether you’re working on cinematic films, YouTube videos, podcasts, or commercial projects, choosing the right headphones ensures accurate sound reproduction and better decision-making in post-production.

1. What to Look for in Headphones for Video Editing

When selecting headphones for video editing, focus on audio accuracy over bass-heavy consumer sound profiles. Here are the main factors:

1.1 Sound Accuracy (Flat Frequency Response)

Editing requires a flat frequency response to ensure you’re hearing the true sound, without artificial boosts in bass or treble.

1.2 Comfort for Long Sessions

Look for lightweight frames, padded ear cups, and adjustable headbands — especially if you edit for hours.

1.3 Isolation

Closed-back designs prevent sound leakage, ideal for noisy environments. Open-back designs offer a more natural sound but leak sound.

1.4 Wired vs. Wireless

  • Wired: No latency, more reliable, and preferred for professional editing.
  • Wireless: More freedom, but latency can be an issue for precise syncing.

1.5 Build Quality & Replaceable Parts

Opt for headphones with detachable cables and replaceable ear pads for long-term use.

2. Open-Back vs. Closed-Back for Editing

Type Pros Cons Best Use Case
Open-Back Natural, spacious soundstage Sound leakage, less isolation Mixing in quiet studios
Closed-Back Better isolation, more portable Narrower soundstage Editing in noisy environments

3. Best Headphones for Video Editing in 2025

Headphones Type Frequency Response Comfort Level Price Range
Sony MDR-7506 Closed-back 10Hz – 20kHz ★★★★☆ $100 – $130
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Closed-back 15Hz – 28kHz ★★★★☆ $150 – $170
Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro (80Ω) Closed-back 5Hz – 35kHz ★★★★★ $150 – $180
Sennheiser HD 650 Open-back 10Hz – 41kHz ★★★★★ $400 – $500
Focal Listen Professional Closed-back 5Hz – 22kHz ★★★★★ $250 – $300

4. Budget Picks That Still Deliver

  • AKG K240 Studio (Semi-open, ~$70): Great for beginners needing accurate mids.
  • Samson SR850 (Semi-open, ~$50): Affordable but surprisingly clear.
  • OneOdio Pro-50 (Closed-back, ~$50): Decent bass, detachable cable.

5. Best Practices for Using Headphones in Video Editing

  1. Pair with studio monitors for cross-referencing.
  2. Avoid mixing solely on consumer headphones — they often color the sound.
  3. Take breaks to prevent ear fatigue and keep your hearing accurate.
  4. Use lossless audio formats when possible.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Headphones

The best headphones for video editing will depend on your environment, budget, and editing style. For most editors, a pair like the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro or Sony MDR-7506 offers exceptional accuracy without breaking the bank, while high-end users may prefer the Sennheiser HD 650 for its open-back clarity.

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