Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 Review

Summary / TL;DR

The Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 headphones are a high-end choice for those seeking luxury in both sound and design. They offer a well-rounded audio experience with rich sound quality, thanks to custom 40mm titanium drivers, and effective active noise cancellation, making them suitable for various environments. The design is elegant and durable, featuring anodized aluminum and lambskin leather, although this makes them slightly heavier than some competitors.

Comfort is prioritized with plush ear cushions and an adjustable headband, though they may feel snug for some users over extended periods. Connectivity is reliable with Bluetooth 5.1, but they lack the ability to connect to multiple devices simultaneously, which could be inconvenient for some users. The battery life is impressive, providing up to 38 hours of playtime.

While the Beoplay H95 excels in premium aesthetics and sound, it faces stiff competition from models like the Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 and Sony WH-1000XM4, which offer strong noise-cancelling features at lower prices. Ultimately, the Beoplay H95 is best suited for those willing to invest in a luxury audio experience.

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Introduction

Looking for luxury headphones that deliver both style and substance? Meet the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95. This high-end audio device is crafted for those who crave premium sound, sleek design, and cutting-edge technology. While some might associate the brand with extravagant price tags, the Beoplay H95 aims to justify every penny by offering a balanced mix of features and performance.

These headphones are designed to cater to audiophiles and casual listeners alike, promising a seamless blend of sound quality and user experience. Sure, they may not fit everyone's budget, but for those who are willing to invest, they promise a rich audio experience wrapped in an elegantly crafted package.

But it's not just about looking pretty and producing crisp sound. The Beoplay H95 also boasts active noise cancellation to keep those unwanted distractions at bay, whether you're at home or on a crowded subway. Of course, every silver lining has its cloud, and some users might find the price tag a bit steep for their liking.

Overall, these headphones offer a lot to love and a few things to ponder. So, are they the right choice for you? Let’s dig deeper into what makes the Beoplay H95 tick in the following sections.

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Design and Build Quality

The design and build quality of the Beoplay H95 reflect the premium vibe that Bang & Olufsen is known for. These headphones are like the luxury car of the headphone world—sleek, stylish, and built to last. They’ve got this minimalist Scandinavian design that’s really eye-catching yet understated.

Constructed from high-end materials, the ear cups are made of anodized aluminum, which not only looks fabulous but also offers durability. The memory foam ear cushions are wrapped in lambskin leather, making them super soft and comfy against your ears. It’s like putting on a cozy sweater for your ears.

The headband is equally refined, combining stainless steel and soft leather for a comfortable fit. However, the downside is that the premium materials make these headphones slightly heavier than some competitors. That said, they’re not going to weigh you down, but it’s something to consider if you plan on wearing them for marathon listening sessions.

One of the standout features is the foldable design, allowing easy storage in the included hard case, which is perfect for those of us who are always on the go. The overall build quality is top-notch, and you can tell they’ve designed these with longevity in mind. But hey, with great design comes great responsibility (and sometimes a hefty price tag), so keep that in mind.

Sound Performance

So, let's chat about the sound performance of the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95. These headphones promise a luxurious audio experience, and boy, do they deliver. The sound is rich and full-bodied, offering a real treat for your ears.

The audio drivers in these bad boys are top-notch. With custom-made 40mm titanium drivers, the Beoplay H95 gives you crisp highs, detailed mids, and deep bass. It's like the sound engineers had a personal mission to bring the concert to your ears. The bass isn't overpowering, which is great if you’re into a balanced sound signature rather than the thumping beats.

But hold on, it's not just about the bass. The soundstage on these is pretty impressive too. Imagine sitting in a small auditorium with the band playing right in front of you. You get a spacious feel without losing any detail. Whether you're jamming to rock, classical, or jazz, the Beoplay H95 manages to keep everything nicely separated.

On the slightly less shiny side, the sound profile might not cater to hardcore bass lovers. While the bass is clean and precise, it doesn’t hit as hard as some other headphones in the market. If you’re a bass head, you might want to look elsewhere.

Another thing to note is the personalization options. There’s a dedicated app that lets you tweak the EQ settings to your liking. Want more treble or a bit more punch in the bass? You got it. This makes it easier to adjust the sound to fit your personal taste, which is a nice plus.

In short, the Beoplay H95 offers a sophisticated auditory experience that suits most genres, though it might not fully satisfy those who crave earth-shattering bass. For everyone else, it's like slipping into a sonic paradise.

Noise Cancellation

Noise cancellation on headphones can be a game-changer, especially if you’re someone who finds themselves often in noisy environments. The Beoplay H95 comes with advanced noise-cancelling technology, and it’s designed to help drown out the world around you so you can focus on your audio experience.

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) on these headphones is pretty impressive. It effectively reduces background chatter and the hum of engines or air conditioning, making it a solid choice for travelers or commuters. Imagine sitting in a busy coffee shop and suddenly finding yourself in your own bubble of sound. That's the kind of experience these headphones aim to deliver.

One cool feature is the adjustable noise cancellation. You can tweak it to your liking, which means you can let in a bit of the outside world if you need to stay aware of your surroundings. However, some users might find the adjustment process takes a bit of getting used to, as it’s done via the app or the physical controls on the headphones. It's not overly complicated, but it's not the simplest either.

Of course, no ANC is perfect, and while the Beoplay H95 does a stellar job with steady, low-frequency sounds, it might not completely eliminate sudden, sharp noises. But, let's be honest, few headphones do.

In short, if you crave peace and quiet amidst the chaos, the Beoplay H95’s noise cancelling might just be your best companion. But if you're hoping for total silence, remember, even the best headphones have their limits. Overall, it’s a solid noise cancellation feature that aligns well with the headphone’s premium status.

Comfort and Fit

Comfort is a big deal when it comes to headphones, and the Beoplay H95 doesn't skimp on it. These headphones are like a plush cushion for your ears. The ear cups are made with soft memory foam covered in lambskin leather, which feels like a gentle hug around your ears. There's no pinching or squashing, even after wearing them for a long movie or a gaming session.

The headband is adjustable and also padded nicely. It's not too tight, so you won't end up with a headache after wearing it for a few hours. However, some folks with larger heads might feel it's a tad snug. It's not a deal-breaker but something to keep in mind if you have a head size that bends the limits of most hats.

These headphones are also lightweight, which is a plus if you're planning to use them on the go. No one wants their headphones to feel like a brick perched on their head! That said, they're not the most portable. The design is more suited for sitting at home or taking them on long trips rather than shoving them in a backpack.

Overall, the balance between comfort and fit is spot on for most users. While they might not be the best pick for those with larger noggins or those who need ultra-portability, the comfort they offer is hard to beat. If you're looking for headphones that feel as good as they sound, the Beoplay H95 could very well be your new best friend.

Battery Life and Connectivity

Battery Life and Connectivity are really important when picking the right headphones. You don't want to be that person whose jams get cut short halfway through the day. Thankfully, the Beoplay H95 doesn't disappoint. These headphones pack a solid punch with up to 38 hours of battery life—yep, you read that right. That’s like binge-watching your entire favorite TV series without needing a recharge! Even with active noise cancellation (ANC) on, you still get an impressive 35 hours. So, whether you're traveling or just got a long workday, these cans have got your back.

Now, let's talk about connectivity. These guys are rocking Bluetooth 5.1, which means a stable and speedy connection without those annoying hiccups. Whether you’re in the next room or moving around the house, you’ll stay connected without interruptions. But what's a bit of tech without some nitty-gritty details?

The H95 supports aptX Adaptive, AAC, and SBC codecs, making sure you get high-quality audio streaming, whether you're on an Android or Apple device. But hey, here’s a little hiccup—these headphones can't connect to multiple devices simultaneously. So, no seamless switching between your laptop and phone, which might be a tad annoying if you often juggle between gadgets. Overall, if you're hunting for headphones that keep the tunes going all day and then some, while also offering reliable connectivity, the Beoplay H95 is a solid choice. Just remember, if you like bouncing between devices, you might need to do a little manual switching.

What's in the Box

When you open the box, the first thing you'll notice is the sleek Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 headphones. They are nestled snugly within a premium carrying case, which not only protects your headphones but adds a touch of elegance. It's like finding a treasure chest with a jewel inside.

• Carrying Case: The case is sturdy yet stylish, designed to keep your headphones safe during travel or when you're on the go.
• Charging Cable: A USB-C charging cable is included, ensuring you can power up your headphones quickly and efficiently. USB-C is a standard, and it’s nice to see that consistency.
• Audio Cable: There’s also a 3.5mm audio cable in case you want to go old school and connect directly, bypassing Bluetooth.
• Flight Adapter: For those of you who love to travel, there's a flight adapter, making these headphones your ideal travel buddy.
• Quick Start Guide: A quick start guide is included to help you get up and running in no time, though the interface is pretty intuitive.

The presentation is top-notch, reflecting the premium price tag. However, it might have been nice to see an additional set of ear cushions included, considering the investment. Overall, unboxing these headphones feels like a special occasion, and everything you need is right there, ready for your next audio adventure.

User Interface and Controls

If there's one thing that stands out about the user interface of the Beoplay H95, it's the simplicity. These headphones are a prime example of how less can be more. Instead of bombarding you with buttons and switches, they've kept it neat. The main controls are located on the earcups, which feature intuitive touch-sensitive panels. You can easily swipe or tap to handle your music and calls. Imagine it like having a magic wand - just a simple tap, and your music pauses or a call picks up. But hey, not everyone is a fan of touch controls. If you're the type who prefers physical buttons, you might miss that tactile feedback.

On the right earcup, there's a rotating aluminum ring for adjusting the volume. It's a nifty feature reminiscent of those old-school radios, giving you precision control without looking at your phone. The left earcup has a similar ring for switching between noise-cancellation modes. The smooth rotation adds a premium feel to the whole experience. Now, let's talk about voice control. The Beoplay H95 is equipped with voice assistant integration. So, if you're a fan of saying "Hey, Siri" or "Hey, Google," you're in luck. This feature makes it easier to keep your hands free for other tasks, but responsiveness can sometimes be a hit or miss depending on the environment. The only hiccup might be that the touch controls can be a bit too sensitive.

Sometimes, while adjusting the headphones, you might accidentally skip a track or change the volume. It's a bit like trying to pat your head and rub your belly at the same time - takes a little getting used to. To sum it up, the user interface on these headphones is all about elegance and ease of use, with just a pinch of learning curve if you're new to touch controls. But once you get the hang of it, controlling your audio becomes second nature.

Video by: Bang & Olufsen

Competitor Comparison

When checking out the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95, it's important to see how it stacks up against some other big players in the premium headphone market. This can help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.

Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700

The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are well-known for their exceptional noise cancellation and crisp sound quality. While the Beoplay H95 offers superior sound richness with its custom-tuned drivers, the Bose 700 provides a more affordable alternative. If you're looking for a slightly less expensive option without sacrificing too much quality, Bose might be your go-to.

Sony WH-1000XM4

The Sony WH-1000XM4 is another strong competitor, often praised for its excellent noise-cancelling abilities and smart features like adaptive sound control. It's like the Swiss Army knife of headphones, versatile and packed with features. However, the Beoplay H95 tends to outshine Sony in terms of design elegance and build quality. If premium aesthetics are top of your list, B&O could be worth the investment.

Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless

Then there's the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless, which delivers outstanding audio clarity and a comfortable fit. While Sennheiser emphasizes audio fidelity over anything else, Beoplay H95 offers a more luxurious feel and a broader soundstage. If you prefer a more immersive audio experience with a touch of luxury, the Beoplay H95 is a better fit.

In summary, each of these competitors brings something unique to the table. The Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 stands out with its premium materials and refined sound quality, while others, like Bose and Sony, might cater more to those looking for value-packed features or cutting-edge noise cancellation. Ultimately, it comes down to what aspects matter most to you in a pair of headphones.

Conclusion

In wrapping things up, the Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 stands out as a top-tier choice for anyone serious about sound and style. With its premium design, these headphones don’t just sit on your ears—they make a statement. The sound quality is rich and immersive, providing a listening experience that's hard to match. Whether you're tuning into your favorite playlist or diving into an audiobook, the audio performance here is like a smooth ride on a clear road. The noise cancellation is solid, effectively drowning out the hustle and bustle so you can focus on what really matters—your tunes. However, it's not the most groundbreaking feature compared to some competitors that might edge it out in extreme conditions. Speaking of comfort, these headphones feel like a soft pillow for your ears, perfect for long listening sessions. Yet, some might find them a tad heavy after extended wear.

The battery life is impressive, allowing you to enjoy your media for hours on end without the dreaded low-battery warning interrupting your groove. Connectivity is a breeze, with a stable connection that doesn't leave you hanging mid-song. The user interface is intuitive, although it might take a bit of fiddling to get used to the controls if you're new to touch-sensitive surfaces.

So, is it an investment? Absolutely. While they come with a hefty price tag, the Beoplay H95 promises a satisfying blend of luxury and performance that will make any audiophile smile. However, if you're on a tight budget, there are other options that offer decent features at a fraction of the price, even if they don't quite match the high-end aura of these headphones. In essence, if you're looking for a pair of headphones that combine slick design with superb sound, and you don’t mind splurging a bit, these could very well be your new best friends.

FAQ

• How good is the noise cancellation? The noise cancellation is top-notch, effectively blocking out ambient sounds like traffic or chatter. However, in extremely noisy environments, some sound might seep through. It's not magic, but it's pretty darn close!
• Are they comfortable for long use? Absolutely! The ear cushions are plush, and the headband is adjustable, providing a snug yet comfy fit. But everyone's noggin is different, so if you have a particularly large head or ears, you might feel a tad snug after hours of wear.
• Can I use them with non-Bluetooth devices? Yes, you can. They come with a cable, letting you plug into devices lacking Bluetooth. Perfect for those old-school folks who still love their wired connections.
• What about the battery life? The battery life is impressive, offering around 38 hours with noise cancellation on. If you forget to charge, a quick 15-minute boost gives around 2-3 hours of playtime. Just remember to juice them up before a long trip!
• Do they support voice assistants? Yep, they do. You can easily summon your assistant of choice, whether it's Siri or Google Assistant. It’s like having a little helper in your ear.
• Is the sound quality really worth the price? The sound quality is exceptional, with crisp highs, balanced mids, and punchy bass. For audiophiles, it's a dream. However, if you're just looking for decent sound and nothing fancy, there are cheaper options out there.
• How does it compare with competitors? While the Beoplay H95 boasts premium sound and features, other brands offer similar perks at a lower cost. It's like choosing a luxury car over a reliable sedan – all about what matters most to you.

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Pros & cons

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Technical specifications