Best Headphones & Earphones for Audiobooks

by Gabby Bloch
Mar 10, 2023 (Updated Jul 31, 2025)
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This is a new one for me. But lately, a lot of folks have been calling in to ask about which headphones work best for audiobooks. Fair question. You don’t want David Sedaris’ iconic voice to end up sounding like a dying whale on some vulgar bass-heavy headphone. So, what kind of over-ear and in-ear headphones are best suited for the spoken word?

Best Earbuds for Audiobooks

Final Audio E1000

Strauss & Wagner EM8C & SI201

$49.95

For those who want to skip the adapter, look no further than Strauss & Wagner. The EM8C has a USB-C end, and the SI201 has a lightning termination. These two models cover every iPhone, Android, and Google Pixel phone there is on the market today. There is no need to get out a specific adapter, and with the addition of USB-C ports in laptops, the EM8C proves to be a very versatile earphone.

The SI201 is specific to the older iPhone, so it is a bit more limited in its use case. However, you'll be able to secure an easy birthday gift for your friend who refuses to upgrade and has a love for audiobooks.

Sony WF-C510 True Wireless

$59.99

The WF-C510 is a great alternative for those who want the ultimate in true wireless sound, but can’t afford it. This Sony model is the little sister to the company’s famous flagship, the WF-1000XM5. With 10 hours of battery life and top-notch sound quality, the only thing it’s missing is the Active Noise Cancellation feature. If you're not into the bells and whistles, and all you're looking for is a true wireless experience on a budget, Sony definitely has you covered. You'll be able to listen to your audiobooks with ease and know you're getting top-quality sound.

These earbuds are lightweight and have tactile buttons for easy function. Whether you use these just at home or decide to take them on the go, you are guaranteed a crisp and detailed sound that will be best for listening to your favorite chapter.

Meze Alba

$159.00

Romanian-company Meze Audio has been known to make some stellar over-ear headphones for audiophiles. While those models may not be suited for audiobook listening, their in-ear monitors are a great choice to look at instead. The Meze Alba is a V-shaped IEM that really brings vocals to the front, and it gives a nice color to all the vocal ranges. Narrators for audiobooks will be the full focus and capture you attention easily, and it'll be a smooth and comfortable listen.

Another bonus with these IEMs is the inclusion of a 3.5mm to USB-C adapter. This little DAC is perfect for people with the latest iPhone or any Android phone. You can plug right into your phone, or get a bit more high definition when you use your computer or other audio source. It's a great addition and handy adapter so you can take these on the go with ease.

Noble Audio FoKus Rex5

$449.00

Here’s where it gets pretty good. If you travel a lot, whether it be on a plane, a train or on horseback, you might need to drown out the hum or loud trotting while listening to your favorite book. While Sennheiser and Sony have a lot of great true wireless options, there are a couple options that bring a new level of audio quality while still being ultra-convenient for travel. The Noble Audio FoKus Rex5 has one of the most effective active noise-canceling (ANC) on the market, and has been applauded by audiophiles for being the highest quality Bluetooth sound. The app allows you to adjust the noise cancelation, ambient mode, and EQ setting so you are only hearing exactly what you want.

Other models like the Amadeus and Prestige are great options, but lean a bit more towards the bass. The Rex5 gives you a wonderfully balanced sound signature that make audiobooks and vocal narration the first thing you hear.

Beyerdynamic DT 72 IE

$499.99

If you're going to be listening to a voice track with your earphones, why not get ones that are specifically tuned to that timbre? Beyerdynamic's latest DT IE line has four different models, all tuned for different musicians and their various instruments. The DT 72 IE is specially tuned for vocals, as well as guitar to bring out those lower-mids and detailed top end. These are small, inoffensive earbuds that fit perfectly in any ear. You can get studio-level sound that is perfect for when you want to immerse yourself in your reading.

Other models in the DT IE line include tunings for critical listening, drums and bass, and classical instruments and keys. You could theoretically use any one of these for your audiobook listening, especially if you know you prefer something more neutral or with a bit more bass. If you're not sure which one to go with, getting the DT 72 IE will ensure you have a great earphone for your book and your music.

Sennheiser IE 600

$899.95

Another studio-level wired IEM you can check out is the Sennheiser IE 600. While the price tag nears $1k on this one, you can rest assured that your money is being well spent. This Sennheiser earphone is a great step up from the introductory IE 200, and keeps you in a reasonable budget for a high-quality pair of IEMs. The IE 600 is known for its smaller shape and neutral tuning, along with exceptional sound reproduction. Vocal tracks have excellent clarity and frontal sound. You will definitely be able to focus on your listening with a great ear seal with the included ear tips and lightweight design.

While the IE 900 and IE 200 sit as upgrade and budget-friendly options (respectively), the IE 600 is the perfect compromise between them both. You'll get a sturdy cable and options for 3.5mm or 4.4mm terminations. These are also a great pairing to any DAC/Amplifier that you may already have for portability or additional tuning.

Best Headphones for Audiobooks

Audio-Technica ATH-M20x

$59.00

Starting on our over-ear headphones, you have a great introductory piece by Audio-Technica. This brand is one that is always good for affordable reference sound. The ATH-M20x is the first in a long line of Audio-Technica over-ear headphones, and it is the most affordable option for a headphone of this style. This wired headphone is perfect for when you want to easily plug into your phone or computer, especially when you're chilling at home or at your work desk. They are comfortable and built to last, and the sound itself is great for music and narration alike.

There is a Bluetooth version of the M20x and other wired headphones that improve on a sound that was already great. You can choose to listen wirelessly for $30 more, or you can keep to a strict budget and get the same sound. Other headphones in the M-series improve in clarity and soundstage as the models go upwards.

Grado GW100x

$275.00

Looking for open-back headphones without the need of an annoying cable? There aren't too many options that check both boxes. However, Grado has one that turns heads and impresses even the pickiest of ears. The Grado GW100x is an on-ear headphone that merges the beloved soundstage of an open-back with Bluetooth convenience. This headphone is great for people who want something lightweight and exceptional in clarity.

While Bluetooth compatibility normally means perfect for travel, this isn't quite the case with the GW100x. The open-back design isn't great for taking on the go, unless you want to move it to one controlled environment to the next. And if Bluetooth isn't for you, this headphone comes with a cable for you to listen in directly.

Sony WH-1000XM6

$449.00

Another Sony product has made our list, and for good reason. The latest in Bluetooth over-ear headphones is the Sony WH-1000XM6, the upgraded version of the popular XM5. It brought back style, comfort, and portability features that customers requested, and the deep bass and punchy midrange makes this great for vocal clarity and full sound. You get stellar noise cancellation with these, one of the best in the business, and it helps to make sure you're listening to your book and nothing else. You'll get to adjust the sound with features in the Sony Sound Connect app, where you can make sure the midrange comes out or put an extra boost on vocals with preset filters.

If $449 is a bit too steep a price for you, you can always look to the model before: the XM5. You don't get the same foldable design for portability, but the noise cancellation is just as good and you'll get that focused sound you're looking for.

Bowers & Wilkins Px8

$699.00

Oscar Wilde once wrote, “The only way to get rid of temptation is to yield to it.” So, ask yourself, do you really need an $700 headphone to listen Prince Harry’s book, Spare? Yes, you definitely do. With a smooth, cohesive and elegant sound profile, these classy cans even come in a McLaren Limited Edition (for another $100). They’re perfectly balanced for any kind of narration or podcast conversation. If you’re a fan of music in addition to being a bookworm, I guarantee that you won’t be disappointed by the Bowers & Wilkins Px8.

The Px8 is just as much a fashion accessory as it is an audiophile listening experience. The sleek black is a classic, but it also comes in tan and white silver, burgundy and gold, and dark green with dark silver. The McLaren is grey with orange details, and stands out so you can never lose it.

Audeze LCD-X

$1,199.00

For the people with a bigger budget and looking for audiophile sound, there are some great options in the $1k+ range that are great for vocal listening. One of these top-end options comes from Audeze. The Audeze LCD-X is a great headphone that doesn't require too much power to drive, but still delivers some impressive vocal clarity in the midrange. These headphones are open-back, so they are ideal for staying at home and enjoying in a quiet space where you can unwind and relax.

Keep in mind with these headphones: like the Grado GW100x, the LCD-X is meant to stay at home. While plugging these into your computer directly will get you some decent sound, a good DAC/Amp will get you to the ideal sound signature. Using a small desktop amplifier like the iFi ZEN DAC 3 or a portable Chord MOJO 2 are excellent choices for elevating your sound and getting the most out of your headphones.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, the best earphones or headphones for audiobooks will be one that is most comfortable for your use case.

For the bookworm that's always on the go: The Noble Rex5 or the Sony XM6 are great options that will allow you to focus on the book and nothing else.
For the audiophile that loves a book as much as a record: Check out Grado's GW100x or the Audeze LCD-X to find the perfect blend of detailed .
For the penny pinchers and price-conscious buyer: Strauss & Wagner's EM8C or the SI201 are two great options for any phone you may have.

No matter which option you go with, you are sure to get high quality listening that caters to your exact needs. Your next audiobook awaits!

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