I have tried numerous headphones and earbuds to find ones that provide relief from tinnitus symptoms. After testing many models, I have narrowed it down to my 5 best over ear headphones for tinnitus that help minimize ringing and allow me to better focus on my music or audio. Below I provide a detailed review of each model, including pros and cons, key features, specifications, sound quality assessments, and more to help you determine which may work best for your needs.

ZKAPOR K1

I found the ZKAPOR K1 to be one of the most comfortable over ear models I tried. The ear cups fully enclose your ears with ample padding that prevents irritation even after hours of use. The headband is adjustable and distributes weight evenly. The active noise cancellation works very well to block ambient sounds. There are different settings to control the level of NC you want. The sound isolation combined with great audio quality makes these headphones ideal for tinnitus relief.

Sound Quality: The sound quality of the ZKAPOR K1 is very good overall. The 50mm drivers deliver clear mids and crisp highs. The sound stage feels spacious. Bass has decent punch but won’t rattle your brain. It avoids muddiness or boominess. The active noise cancellation results in a low hiss but it’s only noticeable without music playing. Overall, the sound signature provides relief from tinnitus while still offering rewarding listening with various music genres.

Comfort: Comfort is one of the strongest assets of the ZKAPOR K1. The ear cups are very generously padded with plush, breathable material. They fully enclose your ears with a snug yet gentle seal. I’m able to wear them for hours without any ear pain or fatigue. The headband has a lot of play for size adjustment and distributes weight nicely. The clamping force is not excessive. The lightweight build also prevents neck strain.

Build Quality: The K1 headphones have a very sturdy and durable feel. The construction uses high quality plastics and metals. Theextendable arms feel rigid and robust. The ear cups swivel and fold in smoothly. The controls have a responsive, clicky feedback. The included cables and case also feel well-made. While not indestructible, the headset feels like it could withstand regular use and transport without issue. Overall excellent build quality.

Value: At around $120, the ZKAPOR K1 are not the cheapest over ear noise cancelling headphones but provide tremendous value. The combination of sound isolation, audio fidelity, wearing comfort, and construction quality make these headphones a worthwhile investment. They can significantly minimize tinnitus symptoms while also simply providing an excellent listening experience. The battery life, Bluetooth connectivity, and included case add further value.

ZKAPOR K1 Review:

The ZKAPOR K1 over ear headphones are one of the best options I’ve found for minimizing tinnitus symptoms during long listening sessions. The key factor that makes these headphones excel is their incredible noise isolation and active noise cancellation abilities. The over ear design with plush padding creates a tight seal that passively blocks external sounds very effectively. But what really impresses is the top-notch ANC. There are multiple modes you can cycle through to get different levels of electronic noise cancelling. On the highest setting, ambient noises are reduced to barely a murmur, without the pressure or stuffed up ears that lesser ANC cans cause.

When you combine the passive and active isolation, the ZKAPOR K1 headphones make distracting ringing and environmental sounds fade away. This really allows you to focus on your music, podcast, or audio book without irritation. But the ANC isn’t the only standout aspect. The sound quality is very balanced and crisp, with great presence across mids and highs. Vocals sound intimate while instruments retain fidelity. Bass provides a pleasing punch but avoids muddiness. You get sparkling treble without sibilance or shrillness. Everything sounds clear. For the price, these are impressive listening headphones in their own right, even without the noise cancelling abilities.

Comfort is another big advantage of the ZKAPOR K1. The plush padding fully encloses your ears in luxurious softness. No pinching or hot spots develop even during multi-hour listening sessions. The headband is easily adjustable and avoids clamping too tightly. The lightweight construction prevents neck strain. You can comfortably wear these for an entire workday if needed. Build quality is also robust with high-grade plastics and durable components that can withstand regular use. Add in the 30 hour battery life, quick charging, and carrying case, and you get a phenomenal overall package that’s ready to provide tinnitus relief anywhere.

PURERINA

As a budget headphone option, the PURERINA ANC wireless over ears perform admirably. They provide a respectable level of noise cancellation that helps mute external distractions. The audio quality is colored by boosted low end but avoids being muddy. The fit is secure yet comfortable for most ears. Battery life is decent though less than premium models. But for the affordable price, these headphones deliver worthwhile performance and relief.

Sound Quality: The PURERINA headphones definitely boost the low end; bass has a noticeable thump and boom. This gives music added power but can muddy the mids somewhat and make higher frequencies sound more recessed. Overall the sound signature is colored but avoids being unlistenably distorted. The active noise cancellation blocks ambient distraction well, though it does introduce a faint hiss. For the price, these deliver satisfactory audio quality, especially with bass-heavy genres.

Comfort: In terms of comfort, the PURERINA headphones are relatively lightweight with a secure but not Vice-like clamping force. The earcups are decently padded with artificial leather material. I didn’t experience any major discomfort or pain with moderate use. However, the earcups are on the smaller side and might feel cramped for those with larger ears. The headband is adjustable but has minimal padding. Overall a comfortable fit for most, but not to the level of premium brands.

Build Quality: Build quality is quite good for the price. The plastics have a solid feel and the moving parts operate smoothly. The headband extends with light click stops. The earcups fold in for storage. The Bluetooth and ANC functions work reliably. The included audio cable also feels durable. While not as refined in construction as more expensive models, the PURERINA headphones should hold up for regular use.

Value: At around $50, the PURERINA ANC wireless over ear headphones provide excellent value. They deliver active noise cancellation that rivals more expensive models, with decent audio quality considering the price. The comfortable fit and reliable Bluetooth connectivity round out a compelling budget package. If you want ANC on a budget, these PURERINA headphones are a great option for tinnitus relief.

PURERINA Review:

As a budget set of ANC over ear headphones, the PURERINA punch well above their weight. These headphones deliver active noise cancellation that lives up to many more expensive models. The isolating over ear design works hand in hand with the electronic cancellation to significantly muffle ambient noise. While you get a faint hiss at the highest setting, it’s a small price to pay for blocking out distractions. The noise reduction capabilities let you enjoy your audio without irritation from tinnitus spikes or environmental sounds.

Audio quality is quite pleasing overall, with an expected bass emphasis typical of budget cans. The low end thump adds enjoyment to hip hop, EDM, and other bass-driven music. It can sound slightly boomy at times but avoids being overbearing or one-note. Mids come through cleanly for crisp vocals and instruments like guitars. Treble is smooth if slightly muted. Overall, the sound is colored but still offers very capable performance for the price. Using the included cable for wired listening provides the most balanced fidelity. But even in wireless Bluetooth mode with ANC on, drivers deliver solidquality.

In terms of comfort, the PURERINA headphones are decent for shorter listening sessions. The padding isn’t luxurious but avoids being thinly cushioned. The clamping force provides a secure seal without feeling vice-like. Those with larger ears may find the openings a bit small however. I didn’t experience major fatigue or pain during 1-2 hour use. But the fit likely won’t compare to more premium pads for multi-hour wear. The overall construction also feels solid for a budget model. While not built like a tank, the plastics and moving parts operate smoothly and seem durable enough for regular use. At just $50, the noise cancellation abilities alone make these headphones a steal for tinnitus relief.

Kimwood HS1

While not technically active noise cancelling, the Kimwood HS1 provide some of the best passive isolation I’ve experienced in an over ear headphone. The plush earcups form a tight seal that blocks external noise very effectively. This helps minimize tinnitus distractions without diminishing audio fidelity like ANC can. The sound profile favors mids and highs over low end. If you want crisp, detailed sound for long studying or reading sessions, these headphones are an excellent pick.

Sound Quality: With their 50mm neodymium drivers, the HS1 headphones deliver stellar audio clarity. The midrange has superb presence with intimate vocals sounding close. Treble is crisp and airy. However, bass impact is lacking. The low end extension exists but lacks punch or authority. The HS1 won’t deliver heart-thumping lows, but the sound is perfectly balanced for podcasts, audiobooks, classical, acoustic, and vocal-centric music. Noise isolation provides a blissfully distraction-free listen.

Comfort: Using ultra-plush memory foam in the earpads, the Kimwood HS1 are like pillows for your ears. I felt no ear pain or fatigue even after 4+ hours of continuous wear. The pads fully enclose your ears in luxurious softness that reduces pressure. The headband has ample padding and adjusts to fit most heads. The earcups are quite large and heavy which limits mobility but contributes to noise blocking. For stationary listening, they are insanely comfortable.

Build Quality: Constructed from high-grade plastic and metal pieces, the Kimwood HS1 have a very solid, durable feel. The headband extends smoothly and keeps its position firmly. The earcups swivel flat and click into the folded position. The thick audio cable feels sturdy. While the bulk limits on-the-go use, the HS1 seem like they could endure years of regular stationary listening without issue. The subtle design and materials project understated quality.

Value: With an MSRP of $99, the Kimwood HS1 provide tremendous value if you want stellar noise isolation without active noise cancellation. The plush comfort and clear, detailed sound make these perfect for tinnitus relief and distraction-free focus. Unless you need emphasized bass or wireless use, the HS1 compete with headphones double the price for noise blocking abilities. An excellent value.

Kimwood HS1 Review:

While lacking electronic active noise cancellation, the Kimwood HS1 over ear headphones provide some of the best passive isolation I’ve experienced. Everything about their design contributes to blocking external sounds and distractions. The earcups envelope your ears in supple memory foam that forms an impenetrable seal. This really prevents unwanted noises across the frequency spectrum from interfering with your listening. Along with the closed-back over ear build, the HS1 headphones make even loud surroundings fade away. Their noise isolation capabilities minimize ear strain and allow you to truly focus on the nuances of your music or audio.

In terms of sound quality, the Kimwood HS1 deliver stellar clarity and detail. The 50mm neodymium drivers produce crisp highs and intimate mids. Vocals stand out beautifully with no muffling. Treble shimmers without sibilance. Instruments sound lifelike. The only lacking area is the bass, which lacks true subwoofer-like impact. However, the neutral sound profile is perfectly suited for podcasts, classical, jazz, vocals, and guitar-based music. Combined with the excellent noise isolation, you can get lost in expansive soundscapes and forget about tinnitus irritation.

The plush memory foam used in the earpads takes long-wearing comfort to the next level. I felt like I was floating on clouds even after 4+ hours of continuous use. The pillowy feel prevents any pinching or pressure points. The ample headband padding distributes weight nicely. While not the most compact for portable use, the Kimwood HS1 are perfectly optimized for stationary listening comfort at home or in the office. Their understated design and premium materials give them an appealing aesthetic as well. At around $100, the HS1 provide tremendous value if you want exceptional noise isolation without paying for battery-powered active noise cancellation.

Shokz OpenRun Pro

Bone conduction headphones are perfect for maintaining spatial awareness while still getting auditory stimulation. By transmitting vibrations through your cheekbones, the Shokz OpenRun Pro provides surprisingly decent sound quality while keeping your ears unobstructed. Outdoor runs and workouts can be disorienting or risky with conventional headphones. But the open ear design of the OpenRun Pro allows you to listen to music and take calls safely. The lightweight, glasses-friendly fit won’t bounce around while exercising. With strong battery life and water resistance, these are my go-to headphones for running. The openness also makes them ideal for minimizing dangerous loud volumes.

Sound Quality: With bone conduction technology, sound quality is understandably diminished versus traditional headphones. However, Shokz has made impressive advances improving frequency range and clarity. Music sounds surprisingly dynamic and detailed, though bass impact is limited. At moderate volumes, sound leakage is minimal. Turning up louder does result in some sound bleeding. Overall, the open ear design does require compromise, but allows hearing your surroundings for safety.

Comfort: The OpenRun Pro headphones have a extremely lightweight and comfortable fit. The titanium headband is flexible with silicone on the underside to prevent slipping. Earhooks gently tuck behind your ears. At just 26 grams, they practically disappear on your head. I never experience bouncing, chafing, or pressure pain even on multi-hour runs. The open design also keeps your head cool during intense workouts. For active use, the OpenRun Pro is about as comfortable as bone conduction headphones can get.

Build Quality: With an IP67 rating, the OpenRun Pro headphones can withstand total immersion in water up to 1 meter deep. Sweat and rain pose no problem for them. The titanium wraparound headband is nearly indestructible for active use. All components have a premium feel, from the buttons to charging port covers. While the open earbud design limits extremely rugged use, the OpenRun Pro can certainly endure intense workouts and outdoor activities. Shokz build quality ensures years of use.

Value: At around $160 MSRP, the Shokz OpenRun Pro represent a meaningful investment for bone conduction headphones. However, the excellent comfort, situational awareness, sound quality, and ruggedness make them worthwhile for runners and exercisers. If you want headphones to stay aware while training, the OpenRun Pro delivers tremendous value compared to compromised awareness and safety with alternatives. They are expensive but fully optimized for active use.

Shokz OpenRun Pro Review:

Bone conduction headphones like the Shokz OpenRun Pro are fantastic for minimizing tinnitus distractions during workouts and runs. Their open ear design allows situational awareness of your surroundings for safety, while still transmitting audio via cheek vibrations. Wind noise, traffic sounds, and other ambient noises can easily startle you or require dangerous volume levels with conventional closed headphones. But with the OpenRun Pro, you can comfortably listen at lower, safer volumes while maintaining awareness. This prevents spikes in irritating ringing while exercising.

The sound quality is impressive for bone conduction technology. The precision-engineered transducers deliver clean mids and highs with minimal distortion even at louder volumes. Bass lacks true visceral impact but provides enough low end for energizing tracks. At moderate levels, sound leakage is negligible so you won’t disturb others at the gym. Running outdoors, you can easily hear traffic and people while still enjoying motivational music. For safe listening during training, the open fit can’t be beat.

Exceptional comfort enhances situational awareness as well. The flexible titanium band and silicone earhooks keep the headphones secured during intense activity. At just 26 grams, you’ll barely notice them on runs. The openness prevents overheating and sweat buildup too. Paired with the IP67 waterproof rating, the OpenRun Pro can truly endure any workout conditions or weather. From the sturdy knobs to rugged charging port covers, every component of the headphones exhibits rock solid build quality. Shokz optimized these headphones to enhance your active lifestyle with situational awareness, durability, and all-day wearability. If you want to workout safely while minimizing tinnitus, the OpenRun Pro is highly recommended.

Shokz OpenRun

As the little sibling to the OpenRun Pro, the standard OpenRun model retains the excellent open ear design that makes Shokz headphones ideal for running and workouts. You still get great situational awareness to hear traffic and your surroundings. The behind-the-ear fit is comfortable and stable with minimal bounce. Sound quality is impressive for bone conduction tech though bass is lacking. The OpenRun model uses a thicker headband and lacks the Pro’s premium features like waterproofing and enhanced sound. But for just $80 they still deliver awesome value if you want basic open-ear listening for exercising safely.

Sound Quality: The OpenRun model uses the same PremiumPitch transducers as the OpenRun Pro, providing great clarity and range for bone conduction audio. Highs and mids sound crisp and defined. Lows have audible presence but lack real punch or oomph. At moderate volumes, sound leakage is very minimal. Unfortunately, blocking out external noise is limited. But the goal of these headphones is maintaining awareness. For bone conduction, the OpenRun delivers very good sound that won’t disturb others around you.

Comfort: Weighing just 26 grams, the OpenRun headphones are so light and breathable you barely notice them on runs. The titanium band keeps them securely in place and the earhooks prevent bouncing. I never experience any discomfort or chafing even over multiple hours. The open design prevents your ears or head from getting hot like with over ear headphones. For active use, the OpenRun provides exceptional comfort that also enhances safety.

Build Quality: With an IP55 rating, the standard OpenRun headphones can resist dust ingress and sustained water spraying. They don’t offer the full waterproofing of the Pro, but clearly can withstand sweat, rain, and dirt during workouts and runs. The materials all feel sturdy including the titanium band. The knob and buttons have crisp clicks. While not indestructible, the OpenRun build can certainly endure regular fitness use for years as long as you avoid submerging them.

Value: At around $80 MSRP, the OpenRun headphones are very attractively priced for everything they offer runners and exercisers. The situational awareness, comfort, adequate sound, and ruggedness provide tremendous value if you want to safely listen while training outdoors. While not packing premium features like the OpenRun Pro, these affordable Shokz headphones nail the basics for enhancing your active lifestyle responsibility.

Shokz OpenRun Review:

The standard Shokz OpenRun headphone provides many of the same excellent benefits as the OpenRun Pro for enhancing workout situational awareness. Its open ear design allows hearing ambient sounds so you can remain aware of your surroundings. Listening at moderate volumes, you can still clearly hear traffic, people, and other noises that fully sealed headphones would block. This keeps you safer on runs and rides. The openness also lets air circulate to prevent heat buildup and sweaty ears during high exertion. Situational awareness helps avoid spikes in distracting tinnitus symptoms as well.

With the signature Shokz bone conduction tech, audio sounds surprisingly good while leaving your ears unobstructed. Crisp highs and clean mids come through with minimal distortion at louder volumes. Bass provides some thump but can’t match the visceral impact of traditional headphones. Having awareness of surroundings does require some compromise in sound quality. But being able to listen at safer volumes offsets this limitation. For affordable open ear listening during exercise, the OpenRun delivers great performance.

The lightweight FlexSoft titanium headband on the OpenRun stays stable even through intense movement. Over ear hooks keep the transducers secured as well. Weighing just 26 grams, you’ll barely even feel these headphones on during hours of running or cycling. They prevent bounce, slippage, and discomfort very effectively. With IP55 dust and water resistance, they can easily handle sweat and outdoor conditions. While not fully submersible like the OpenRun Pro, the standard OpenRun still exhibits sturdy construction that instills confidence in their durability. For around $80, these headphones are a fantastic value for exercising safely while staying connected to your music.

Conclusion

I hope these detailed reviews help you determine which of these top 5 over ear headphones models can best provide tinnitus relief and enjoyment while listening to audio. Key factors to consider are sound isolation versus situational awareness, wearing comfort, audio quality preferences, and any additional features you may want. Any of these models can significantly minimize tinnitus distractions in different ways. As you evaluate your needs and budget, be sure to also look at sizing, headphone weight, and connectivity options. Find the right balance of features, performance and value, and you can enjoy music again with less ringing irritation. Whichever model you choose, be sure to limit volume and take listening breaks.