Sound quality is a hugely important factor when picking out headphones, but it's not the only thing you should consider when you're investing in a decent pair. If you are the type of person who likes to listen to music for long stretches of time--and if you're plunking down a decent chunk of change on a quality set of 'phones, you probably are--you want to make sure that they're not going to snag on your hair or rest uncomfortably on the cartilage of your ears. As such, I set out on a mission to find some of the most comfortable headphones that CNET has reviewed over the years. A good rule of thumb is to pick out a full-size--but lightweight--pair with soft padding and plenty of it, and that includes on the headband, as well as on the ear cups. Earbuds usually aren't totally comfy for most people--they get caught on things and pulled out easily, and they can irritate some people's ear canals--but I threw one set in for good measure in case you need ultraportability. Our reviewer found them to be more than adequate in the comfort department.
Bose's standard-setting noise-canceling headphones have just upped the ante.
Sennheiser's featherweight noise-canceling headphones are supercomfy and produce sound quality approaching that of some full-size models.
Audio-Technica's ATH-EW9 clip-on headphones combine graceful looks and sonics, but they won't rock your world.
The Pioneer SE-DIR800C noise-free wireless headphones are the first we've seen to feature Dolby Headphone processing--and they sound great.
Sennheiser's versatile headphones sound great on DVDs and all kinds of music.
Ultimate Ears' no-frills Super.fi 3 Studio in-ear headphones deliver a clear, balanced audio response. This set should be your top choice in the $100 price range.
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