Must-Have Headphones for the Discerning College Student (2023)

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Rory McDonald
Rory McDonald

College life is a balancing act of academics, social activities, personal time, and yes, noise.

A great pair of headphones is more than just a gadget; it’s a necessary tool for studying, relaxing, and even surviving the hustle and bustle of the campus. Here are our top picks of must-have headphones for the discerning college student.

The choice of headphones is a personal one, and there are many factors to consider. Do you want noise-canceling headphones? Do you need a microphone for calls? What about battery life? Would you prefer in-ear earbuds or over-the-ear headphones?

While there aren’t wrong answers to these questions, some headphones are better suited for college life than others. Here are our top picks for must-have headphones for the discerning college student.

1. Sony WH-1000XM5

Sony’s WH-1000XM5 are the pinnacle of noise-canceling headphones, combining high-end sound quality with the best active noise cancellation on the market.

These headphones are not just about keeping noise out; they’re about providing an immersive sound experience.

Why a Good Gift? These headphones are perfect for students studying in noisy environments. They can completely shut out the outside world, allowing for intense focus on studies.

Plus, the sound quality makes them excellent for unwinding with some music or a podcast after a long day of classes.

Where to Get Them? Sony WH-1000XM5 are widely available in electronics stores and online marketplaces like Amazon.

2. Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation)

Apple AirPods Pro are a step up from the regular AirPods, offering improved sound quality, a better fit, and active noise cancellation. They’re compact, wireless, and integrate seamlessly with other Apple devices.

Why a Good Gift? For students who are always on the go, the AirPods Pro are an excellent choice. They’re perfect for studying, working out, commuting, or simply chilling. Plus, if they’re part of the Apple ecosystem, the integration is a huge bonus.

Where to Get Them? Apple AirPods Pro can be purchased from Amazon, the Apple Store or other electronics retailers, both online and physical. Just make sure you buy the new 2nd generation model.

3. Jabra Elite 85h

The Jabra Elite 85h offer incredible battery life of up to 36 hours with active noise cancellation turned on, which means less time charging and more time enjoying your music or podcasts. They also provide excellent sound quality and comfortable fit.

Why a Good Gift? If your college student is a marathon studier or likes to travel, the Jabra Elite 85h are an excellent choice due to their long battery life. They can provide days of listening on a single charge, which is perfect for extended study sessions or long trips.

Where to Get Them? You can find Jabra Elite 85h on the Jabra website, Amazon, and in many electronics stores.

When it comes to surviving the college experience, a reliable pair of headphones is a must-have. Whether you need them for intense study sessions, blocking out noisy dorm life, or relaxing during downtime, our top picks offer a range of options to suit any student’s needs and preferences. Happy listening!