Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 review premium wireless ANC over-ear headphones with 38-hour battery

Description

Premium Craftsmanship and Design

I’ll start by saying the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 headphones are undeniably stunning. The design is sleek and sophisticated, with high-end materials like titanium, lambskin leather, and memory foam coming together to create a product that screams luxury. They don’t just look good; they feel incredible too. The lambskin leather ear cushions are so soft that I almost forgot I was wearing them. The foldable design adds practicality to the elegance, making it easy to tuck the headphones into the aluminum carrying case when not in use. This case isn’t just some afterthought—it’s robust, lined with plush fabric, and keeps the headphones and accessories secure while traveling. It’s clear that the design team paid attention to every detail.

Sound Quality That Impresses

Let’s talk about what truly matters: the sound. These headphones come equipped with customized 40mm titanium drivers and neodymium magnets that deliver a sound experience that’s just phenomenal. The audio is crisp and clear, with rich bass that doesn’t overpower the mids or highs. Whether I was listening to classical music, podcasts, or bass-heavy tracks, the sound remained balanced and immersive. The frequency range of 20-22,000 Hz adds depth to the listening experience, making even the smallest details in tracks noticeable.

The adaptive active noise cancellation (ANC) is, honestly, next level. I tested these in a bustling café and later while gaming, and the world around me just melted away. Switching between noise-canceling and transparency modes is seamless and intuitive. I found the transparency mode especially useful for quick conversations without needing to take the headphones off. It’s clear they designed these for people who prioritize sound quality and isolation.

Battery Life That Keeps Going

Battery life is often a deal-breaker for me, but these headphones deliver. With 38 hours of battery life, I didn’t find myself reaching for the charger as often as I do with other wireless headphones. Even with ANC turned on, the battery life held up impressively well. Charging is straightforward with the USB-A to USB-C cable included, and the 3-hour charging time is reasonable given how long the battery lasts. This is one of those features that makes these headphones ideal for travelers or anyone constantly on the move.

Ease of Use and Controls

One of the standout features for me was how intuitive the controls are. The elegant dials on each earcup make adjusting volume or toggling ANC easy without fumbling with buttons or pulling out my phone. The Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity is solid with a 10-meter range, and I experienced zero dropouts even when moving between rooms in my apartment. Pairing with my laptop, smartphone, and even my gaming console was seamless. The headphones also support a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and even smart speakers.

The app control adds another layer of customization, allowing me to tweak sound profiles to match my preferences. While I didn’t feel the need to adjust much (the default settings are stellar), having the option is a nice touch.

Key Benefits

• Impressive adaptive ANC that effectively blocks external noise without compromising sound quality.
• Luxurious materials like lambskin leather and memory foam for unmatched comfort.
• Long-lasting 38-hour battery life makes it perfect for travel or long listening sessions.
• Customizable sound profiles through the app for tailored audio experiences.
• Comes with a sturdy aluminum carrying case for safe storage and travel.

Areas for Improvement

While I thoroughly enjoyed these headphones, there are a few aspects that could be better:

• Weight: At 11.4 ounces, they’re slightly heavier than other models I’ve used, and I noticed some strain after extended use.
• Price point: These headphones are undeniably premium, but the cost might be prohibitive for some users.
• Not water-resistant: Given their luxury status, a bit of water resistance would’ve been reassuring, especially for commuters or gym-goers.

Product Competitors

The high-end headphone market is crowded, and I’ve had the chance to test a few alternatives. Compared to the Sony WH-1000XM5, the Beoplay H95 edges slightly ahead in terms of material quality and design. However, Sony offers comparable ANC and sound quality at a more accessible price point. The Bose 700 Noise Cancelling Headphones also come to mind, with their stellar call quality and slightly lighter design, though they fall short of the H95’s luxurious feel and battery life.

For audiophiles, the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless is another strong contender. The Sennheisers offer a more neutral sound profile, which some might prefer, but they don’t match the plush comfort of the H95. If you’re someone who values premium design, robust build quality, and immersive sound, the Beoplay H95 remains a standout choice.

Bang for the Buck

I won’t sugarcoat it: these headphones are an investment. But if you’re someone who values quality for price, they’re worth every penny. The combination of adaptive ANC, top-notch materials, and long battery life makes them a standout in their category. While they’re priced higher than some competitors, the level of craftsmanship and attention to detail justifies the cost. For frequent travelers or anyone who spends a lot of time plugged into music or calls, the Beoplay H95 delivers a level of cost-effectiveness that’s hard to ignore.

In the end, these headphones are for those who refuse to compromise on sound quality, comfort, and style. While there are areas that could be improved, the positives far outweigh the negatives.

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