Best Headphone Brands in India 2024

Headphones are a very personal audio experience, and what works for one person might not work for another. With that in mind, we’ve put together a list of the best headphone brands in India, based on our own experiences and the opinions of other consumers. Whether you’re looking for headphones to use at home or on the go, we hope this guide will help you find the perfect pair for your needs.

Headphone Industry in India

The headphone industry in India has seen significant growth in recent years. Here are some stats and facts about the industry:

• The Indian true wireless earbuds market has seen a record quarter with 168% YoY growth and 62% QoQ growth in Q2 2022. Home-grown brands such as boAt, Noise, Mivi, and pTron dominate the market, with boAt leading with a 46% market share.
• The headphones market in India is projected to grow by 3.11% from 2023-2028, resulting in a market volume of US$0.87bn in 2028.
• The earphones and headphones market size in India exceeded USD 85 billion in 2021 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of over 11% from 2022 to 2028. Global industry shipments are expected to reach 1 billion units by 2028. The India earphones & headphones market is estimated to attain a CAGR of 15% by 2028 due to the rising demand for high-quality product ranges.
• The global earphones and headphones market size was valued at USD 58,259.2 million in 2022 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 12.6% from 2023 to 2030. The headphone market is anticipated to register a CAGR of 4.2% from 2023-2030. Increasing consumer disposable income, especially in developing countries such as India, China, and Brazil, is expected to significantly propel market demand for earphones & headphones in the Asia Pacific and Latin American regions.
• The India headset market witnessed moderate growth during the period 2017-2020 underpinned by rapid growth in the entertainment industry owing to the booming digitalization of the country, along with rising demand for headsets from the rising IT/BPO sector and gaming industry. The rising number of subscribers on OTT platforms and audio streaming services is the major factor driving the growth of the headset market in India.
• The India wireless audio market is expected to register a CAGR of approximately 17.22% throughout the forecast period. Some of the factors boosting market growth include higher smartphone penetration, reduced internet connection pricing, an increased need for mobility and flexibility, and a faster rate of technological development and acceptance.

Headphone Brands in India

1. Phillips

Phillips is one of the leading headphone brands in India. The company has a wide range of products that cater to a variety of needs and budgets. From basic wired headphones to premium wireless models, Phillips has something for everyone.

One of the sexiest things about Phillips headphones is their advanced technology. For example, the Avent series uses advanced noise-cancelling technology to block external noise. This makes it suitable for use in noisy environments such as trains and offices. The Avent series also comes with a built-in microphone, making it ideal for hands-free calls.

Another popular Phillips series is the SHP9500S, which is designed for audiophiles. These headphones feature high-quality drivers that deliver crystal-clear sound. They also have a comfortable over-ear design that makes them suitable for long listening sessions. If you’re looking for the most comfortable headphone experience, Phillips is a brand worth considering.

2. Sony

Sony is perhaps the most renowned brand for high-quality headphones. Founded in 1946 by engineer Masaru Ibuka, the company quickly rose to prominence as a leader in cutting-edge technological innovation.

Over the years, Sony has set the standard for audio excellence with its wide range of headphones. From noise-canceling models that block out ambient sounds and allow users to fully immerse themselves in their music, to wireless Bluetooth headphones that offer complete freedom of movement, Sony has something for everyone.

Whether you’re a hardcore audiophile looking for the best of the best or just a casual listener on a budget, you can find a pair of Sony headphones that perfectly suits your needs. So if you’re looking for one of the finest headphone brands in India, look no further than Sony.

3. Skullcandy

Known for its innovative and high-quality audio products, Skullcandy is one of the best headphone brands in India. With a focus on cutting-edge technology and sleek design, this brand has quickly become known for producing premium headphones that give listeners an exceptional listening experience. Whether you prefer on-ear headphones or in-ear buds, Skullcandy has something to suit every music lover.

Some of the most popular Skullcandy products include the Air Raid wireless portable speaker, the Crusher headphones for bass lovers, and the best-selling Hesh 3 Bluetooth headphones. These high-performance devices are built with the latest technologies, including advanced wireless connectivity and noise-cancellation capabilities. So if you’re looking for superior sound quality and unbeatable style, look no further than Skullcandy. With its commitment to excellence and passion for music, this brand truly delivers the best listening experience possible.

4. JBL

Among the best headphone brands in India, the JBL brand is synonymous with high-quality audio products. JBL’s success is partly attributed to its innovative technology. JBL headphones, for example, are constructed from durable materials such as plastic, ceramic, and metal alloys to ensure maximum sound reproduction and distortion-free listening.

JBL’s headphones also feature advanced features like noise cancellation and touch functionality, so users can control their music playback easily. With a wide variety of stylish designs to choose from, it’s no wonder millions of audiophiles choose the JBL brand.

The JBL brand has the perfect solution for your audio needs, whether you’re looking for wireless earbuds or studio-grade over-ear headphones.

5. Beats

There is no doubt that Beats is one of the best headphone brands in India. Its products are known for their high quality and cutting-edge technology. Its most popular products include the Beats Solo3 Wireless Headphones and the Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earphones.

Both products have many advanced features and impressive sound quality. For example, the Beats Solo3 Wireless Headphones feature an advanced noise cancellation system that blocks out external noise. Meanwhile, the Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earphones offer a snug and secure fit, making them appropriate for active users.

In addition to its superior technology and products, Beats also offers excellent customer service, making it a top choice for premium headphone brands in India.

6. Bose

With its focus on innovative technology and high-quality sound, Bose has become one of the best-known and most respected brands in the world of headphones. The company’s cutting-edge products incorporate a wide range of advanced technologies, from noise reduction and active EQ to personalized audio profiles and intuitive touch controls.

These features have earned Bose a reputation as an industry leader, with products that consistently push the boundaries of what is possible.

From earbuds to over-ear headphones, Bose offers a wide range of products that cater to everyone. Whether you are looking for sleek, compact designs or premium materials and sound quality, there is a Bose product that meets your needs. Some popular products from the company include the Quiet Comfort series for travellers, the SoundSport for sports enthusiasts, and the Sound Link for audiophiles. So if you are on the lookout for top-of-the-line headphones that pack power and performance into every note, look no further than Bose.

7. Sennheiser

With over 70 years of experience in the audio industry, Sennheiser is widely regarded as one of the leading headphone brands in India. Their focus on cutting-edge technology and innovative design has set them apart from other manufacturers, making their headphones among the most popular and highly regarded in the world.

One key technology that sets Sennheiser headphones apart from their competitors is their proprietary noise cancellation technology. This advanced system uses a combination of specialized microphones and intelligent algorithms to effectively block out unwanted ambient sounds. This allows you to enjoy crystal-clear music and audio streams with minimal outside interference. In addition, Sennheiser also incorporates advanced driver technologies like neodymium magnets. This ensures that every note and nuance of your favourite music comes through loud and clear. For those who are more interested in speakers, be sure to explore the best speaker brands in India for great options as well.

Some of Sennheiser’s best-known products include their acclaimed Momentum line of headphones, which offer style, comfort, and exceptional sound quality all in one package. Whether you’re a serious audiophile or just want some solid on-ear headphones for your daily commute, Sennheiser has something for you.

8. boAT

There are many headphone brands available in India, but BOAT is one of the finest. The company produces high-quality products using cutting-edge technology. Some of their most popular products include Bluetooth headphones and wired headphones.

The Bluetooth headphones are best for those who want to listen to music wirelessly, while the wired headphones are ideal for those who want to enjoy high-quality sound without any distractions.

Boat also offers a wide range of other products, including earbuds, speakers, and portable chargers. Whether you’re looking for headphones for casual listening or for working out, boAT has a product that will suit your needs. If you prefer earphones over headphones, check out our list of the best earphone brands in India.

9. Audio Technica

Audio Technica is one of the most popular headphone brands in India, known for its high-quality audio products and cutting-edge technology. Designed to deliver clear, rich sound at all frequencies, Audio Technica headphones are ideal for music lovers and audiophiles alike.

Using advanced engineering techniques and materials like magnesium alloy components and pure silver wiring, Audio Technica creates headphones built to last. These high-performance headphones incorporate sophisticated features like noise isolation, a wide frequency response range, and powerful amplification for optimal listening pleasure.

Some of the most popular Audio Technica headphones include the ATH-M50x professional studio monitor headphones, best-selling over-ear wireless active noise cancelling headphones ATH-ANC7b QuietPoint, as well as the coveted E700 high-resolution sound source headphones that are perfect for serious audiophiles. So whether you’re looking for a pair of ultraportable earbuds or a full set of immersive studio monitoring headphones, you can trust that Audio Technica has just what you need to take your audio experience to the next level.

10. Shure

When it comes to high-quality headphones, few brands can match the quality and performance of Shure. Founded over 90 years ago, Shure has been a leading name in electronics for nearly a century, constantly pushing the boundaries of innovation and technology.

Their headphones incorporate the latest advancements in audio engineering, from advanced noise-cancellation features to crystal-clear sound reproduction. With a range of products designed for all types of users, from casual listeners to professional audio engineers, Shure is truly one of the best headphone brands out there.

Whether you’re looking for stylish on-ear headphones or durable in-ear monitors, you can trust Shure to deliver premium sound and comfort every time. So if you’re looking for top-notch headphones that will take your listening experience to the next level, look no further than Shure.

Headphone Buying Guide

Buying headphones may seem like a simple task, but when you consider all the different options available, it can quickly become overwhelming. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before making your purchase.

1. Types of Headphones

First, you need to decide on the type of headphones you want. There are three main types:

• In-Ear (Earbuds): They are compact and fit directly into your ear canal, which makes them excellent for travelling or exercising. They can offer excellent sound quality but may not be as comfortable for extended use for some users.
• On-Ear: These headphones sit directly on your ears. They are larger than earbuds, often providing better sound quality, but they can put pressure on your ears, which might cause discomfort over time.
• Over-Ear (Circumaural): These are the largest type of headphones, covering the entire ear. They offer superior sound quality and comfort, but their size makes them less portable.

2. Wired vs Wireless

• Wired: Wired headphones typically offer the best sound quality, and you don’t have to worry about charging them. The downside is that wires can get tangled and can be inconvenient during physical activities.
• Wireless (Bluetooth): Wireless headphones offer the convenience of no wires to get tangled. The sound quality has improved significantly in recent years. However, they need to be recharged, and the battery life varies from model to model.

3. Noise Cancellation

Noise-cancelling headphones reduce ambient noise, letting you enjoy your music without turning up the volume excessively. This feature can be particularly useful in noisy environments, such as aeroplanes or busy workplaces. Keep in mind that this feature often comes at a higher price point.

4. Sound Quality

Sound quality is a complex subject and often depends on personal preference. Some people prefer a more balanced sound, while others like a deep bass or crisp highs. Many premium headphones offer a sound profile that you can adjust using an app.

5. Comfort and Fit

Comfort is key, especially if you plan on wearing your headphones for extended periods. Look for headphones with padded ear cups and an adjustable headband. For earbuds, look for models with different ear tip sizes.

6. Durability

You’ll want headphones that can stand up to daily use. Consider the build quality and materials used. Headphones made with metal or high-quality plastic tend to be more durable than those made with cheaper materials.

7. Price

Headphones range in price from under $10 to over $1,000. Your budget will depend on what you’re willing to spend, but keep in mind that higher-priced headphones often offer better sound quality, durability, and additional features.

8. Brand

There are many reputable headphone brands on the market. Some of the well-known ones include Sennheiser, Sony, Bose, JBL, Audio-Technica, and Beats. Each brand has its strengths and weaknesses, so do some research to find out which is the best fit for your needs.

9. Additional Features

Modern headphones often come with additional features, such as a built-in microphone for calls, touch controls, voice assistant compatibility, customizable sound profiles, etc.

10. Reviews and Ratings

Before making a purchase, read reviews and check ratings. They can provide insights about the product’s performance and potential issues.

Our Headphone Brands Recommendations

1. Phillips: Known for offering quality audio gear at affordable prices, Phillips is ideal if you’re on a budget but still want reliable performance. Try their SHP9600 for an open-back over-ear experience, or the Philips TAT1215 for affordable in-ear wireless options.
2. Sony: Sony offers a broad range of headphones, including some of the market’s best noise-cancelling models. The WH-1000XM4 is well-regarded for its sound quality and active noise cancellation, while their WF-1000XM4 earbuds are a top pick for true wireless design.
3. Skullcandy: Skullcandy is popular among the younger crowd for its colourful, stylish designs and strong bass profiles. The Crusher Evo is a favourite for bass lovers. For a budget option, the Skullcandy Sesh Evo offers good performance at a low cost.
4. JBL: Known for delivering a punchy, energetic sound profile, JBL has a variety of models for different user needs. The JBL Free X are great wireless earbuds that deliver the signature JBL sound, and the JBL Club One is a top-notch over-ear model with noise cancellation.
5. Beats: Beats by Dre has a reputation for bass-heavy sound profiles and stylish designs. The Beats Solo Pro offers good sound and impressive noise cancellation, while the Powerbeats Pro is a popular choice for workouts with its secure fit and water resistance.
6. Bose: Bose is known for its superior noise cancellation technology and comfortable designs. The QuietComfort 35 II and newer Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are some of the best noise-canceling headphones available. For earbuds, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds excel in noise cancellation and comfort.
7. Sennheiser: Sennheiser is a top choice among audiophiles for its high-quality sound and reliable build. The Sennheiser HD 660 S are excellent for critical listening, while the Momentum True Wireless 2 offers a balanced sound profile in an in-ear design.
8. boAT: An Indian brand known for its budget-friendly yet performance-oriented products. The boAt Rockerz 255 Pro+ offers good wireless sound at a very affordable price, while the Airdopes 441 Pro are a popular true wireless choice.
9. Audio Technica: Popular among music professionals, Audio Technica offers great wired options. The ATH-M50x is considered a standard for studio monitoring, while the ATH-ANC700BT offers good sound and noise cancellation in a wireless format.
10. Shure: Shure has a reputation for delivering professional-level audio quality. The Shure SE215 is a popular in-ear model with excellent sound isolation, while the Aonic 50 offers great over-ear sound quality and noise cancellation.

As you dive into the world of premium audio experiences, understanding the broader landscape of electronic manufacturing in India can be insightful. To learn more about the top players in this industry, visit our comprehensive guide on the best electronic manufacturing companies in India.

FAQs

Conclusion:

When it comes to headphones, there are a lot of different brands and options to choose from. So, which one is the best? We’ve tried out a few of the most popular brands and found that each one has its own unique set of pros and cons. If you’re looking for the best sound quality or noise cancellation, then Bose is probably your best bet. However, if you want something more affordable that still sounds great, we recommend checking out Sennheiser or Audio-Technica. Whichever brand you choose, make sure you do your research before buying so that you can find the perfect pair of headphones for your needs.