Top 5 Best Headphones for ASMR Of 2022(Review and Guide)
AcousticSheep SleepPhones
Bose QuietComfort 35 II
WINONLY Sleep Headphones
- John Gurley
- January 24, 2020
What are the best headphones for ASMR? Is it okay to listen to ASMR while sleeping? Should you sleep with headphones on? Do you even need headphones to enjoy ASMR? If you are an ASMR lover, you probably have had these and many other questions on your mind. Here are all the answers — delivered in a whisper.
If you are reading this, then you must be one of those fortunate enough to feel the sweet, euphoric, ASMR-induced tingles all across your scalp, neck, and spine. Lucky you! — and welcome to the club.
Now, you and I both know that nothing compares to real-life ASMR — it’s just the best. Merely thinking of getting my hair washed in the salon or having someone do my makeup makes my brain melt. Ah, the tingles!
Unfortunately, however, most of us can’t afford luxurious spa and beauty treatments every single day, and asking your family members to trace the alphabet on your face is, at best, well, awkward.
Enter online ASMR videos. They have been nothing but a godsend for me, saving me from many a sleepless night.
That is why I’m currently looking into upgrading my ASMR experience by swapping my good old iPhone earbuds for a pair of headphones. I have compiled my research into the best ASMR headsets as a guide for anyone who might be in the same position.
I know that many of you out there won’t relate. Even star ASMRtist Karuna Satori herself said in one of her videos that she doesn’t understand people who use earbuds or headphones.
However, if you are like me and can only get tingles from ASMR using earbuds or headphones, this article is for you.
Reviews of the Best Headphones for ASMR
1. Bose QuietComfort 35 II
When it comes to the best ASMR headphones in terms of sound quality, this set easily makes it in the top five. Its most noteworthy features include the built-in Alexa and Google Assistant voice control and the Bose augmented reality (AR) platform.
Bose AR is a next-generation technology that uses a special, multi-directional motion sensor to detect the movement and orientation of your head and body at any given moment. Your headphones then use this information together with data from your mobile device to create context- and location-specific audio content.
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II are also among the top noise cancelling sleep headphones.
They come with three noise-cancellation levels, a noise-rejecting, dual-microphone system, and volume-optimized EQ. These add-ons help to achieve clear sounds and voice pick-up in noisy environments and balanced audio at any volume. You should love these features if you listen to ASMR to help you concentrate at work or in school.
A gadget with that many settings can be a real handful to operate. Luckily, these ASMR headphones are very easy to control via the Bose Connect mobile app. It can unlock Bose AR, tweak the noise cancellation level, manage Bluetooth, share music, and install software updates.
On the negative side, these are probably not the best headphones for sleeping, especially if you are a side-sleeper. They are also on the pricier side, and the Bose AR apps are not yet compatible with Android devices.
- Wireless
- Bose AR
- Bose Connect app
- Bluetooth-enabled
- Music-share options
- Volume-optimized EQ
- Alexa and Google Assistant voice control
- Three levels of active noise cancelling
- Noise-rejecting, dual-microphone system
- Up to 20 hours of battery life
- An audio cable for listening to content even when the battery is dead
- On the pricier side
- Not comfortable to wear while sleeping
- Bose AR apps are currently compatible with iPhone and iPad only
2. AcousticSheep SleepPhones
The AcousticSheep SleepPhones are flat and super soft, making them a perfect choice for anyone on the lookout for the best sleeping headphones. They definitely rank among the best comfortable headphones for sleeping. What’s more, these are the first-ever ultra-thin headphones on the market.
Curiously enough, the SleepPhones were invented by a family physician who wanted to listen to meditative music after taking late-night patient calls. At the time, there were no headphones that were comfortable to wear in bed and sleep in. That is why she decided to come up with her own product.
These sleeping headphones come in three sizes (small, medium, and large) and two types of fabric — fleece and breeze. The fleece bands are softer and warmer, while the breeze ones are more lightweight and have anti-moisture properties. Best of all, both fleece and breeze are machine-washable.
The built-in play, pause, skip, and volume level buttons allow you to control the headphone sound without looking at your mobile device. That makes this product great to use when lying down and even while using it as a sleep eye-mask.
The AcousticSheep SleepPhones are also the most-awarded sleeping headphones. They have won eight Consumer Electronics Association Innovation Awards and a Red Dot Design Award, among others.
Unfortunately, however, some users report that their SleepPhones start to malfunction after only a few months of use. That could be due to the constant pressure applied to the product throughout the night or in certain sleep positions.
- Lightweight
- Wireless over-ear design
- Ultra-thin and flat headphones
- Comfortable to sleep in
- Doubles as an eye mask
- Built-in control buttons
- Suitable for machine-washing
- One-year warranty
- Three sizes and two fabric options
- Bluetooth pairing from 15–30 ft or 5–10 m away
- Potentially shorter shelf-life
- No noise cancelling functions
- No built-in microphone and phone call function
- Not great for long-term use, as the battery only lasts up to 10 hours
- To charge the battery, you have to take the Bluetooth module out
3. WINONLY Sleep Headphones
Just like the AcousticSheep SleepPhones, the WINONLY Sleep Headphones are lightweight, soft, and ultra-thin. You can use this product as over-ear sleep headphones, a sports headband, or an eye mask. It should collect your sweat and keep your hair in place during workout sessions, as well as provide a comfy surface to lie on for when you need a nap.
Unlike AcousticSheep, however, these headphones have a built-in microphone. This way, you won’t miss any important calls while working out or zoning out to your favorite ASMR.
While the WINONLY Sleep Headphones don’t come in different sizes, the headband is stretchy and should fit anyone. The machine-washable fabric is made of hypoallergenic braided cord and a breathable mesh lining, which should provide some much-needed comfort for your skin at night.
Overall, these are some really good headphones for ASMR. However, they might not be the best choice for you if you are a die-hard audiophile with a sensitive ear. The sound quality is not the best on the market, so if you are looking for noise cancellation or other advanced features, this is probably not your product.
- Lightweight over-ear design
- Bluetooth-enabled
- Wireless headphones
- Suitable for machine-washing
- Stretchy and breathable fabric
- Flat and ultra-thin 0.25-inch band
- Comfortable to sleep in
- Built-in microphone and control buttons
- Doubles as an eye mask and sports headband
- No noise cancellation
- The battery only lasts up to 10 hours
- Not the best sound quality on the market
4. CozyPhones Sleep Headphones
Here is yet another product that combines a sports headband, an eye mask, and headphones. The CozyPhones Sleep Headphones are also lightweight, ultra-thin, and among the best ASMR headphones for side-sleepers.
The headband is made out of washable and breathable Lycra material with mesh lining. What’s more, the CozyPhones Sleep Headphones come with a bonus travel bag, durable braided cable, and a 100% money-back guarantee.
These headphones come with adjustable speakers, which could help fit all head sizes and adapt to different sleeping positions. This advantage, however, may also turn out to be a double-edged sword. Some users report that the Velcro earpads won’t stay in place and move around inside the band.
In addition, due to the lack of different sizing options, the headband may slip, fall off, or be too tight for certain people. Others report that the dark fabric can stain the pillowcase and sheets if used unwashed.
- Best for budget-conscious buyers
- Lightweight
- Flat and ultra-thin headphones
- Suitable for machine-washing
- Comfortable to sleep in
- Adjustable speakers
- Noise cancelling function
- Tangle-proof, durable braided cable
- 100% money-back guarantee
- Doubles as an eye mask and sports headband
- Not wireless
- No Bluetooth
- One size only
- May stain the bedding
- Earpads may move inside the band
- No built-in microphone and control buttons
5. COWIN E7 PRO Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
COWIN E7 PRO may not be as comfortable to wear while sleeping as the over-ear headband sets. However, this pair of headphones delivers a much better sound.
For starters, its advanced, active noise cancelling technology specifically targets low-frequency sounds, such as city traffic, airplane cabin noise, or background office noise. That should help improve your ASMR experience, even if you are not in the comfort of your own bed. Unfortunately, however, COWIN E7 PRO is not designed to block out higher-frequency sounds such as music, talking, or snoring.
Second, these headphones use proprietary, 45 mm large-aperture drivers to achieve crisp, powerful sounds and deep bass response. That should deliver true-to-life sound quality, which is just the thing you need when listening to ASMR videos.
COWIN E7 PRO also comes with soft ear cushions, protein earpads, and swiveling earcups. The skin-like texture and lightweight design should ensure lasting comfort even when enjoying ASMR for a few hours on end.
Furthermore, these ASMR headphone set is easy to operate with its built-in microphone and control buttons. This way, you won’t have to look at your mobile device every single time you’d like to adjust the volume.
Last but not least, COWIN E7 PRO promises a 30-hour playtime mode at full charge in Bluetooth mode. That should be more than enough for a few nights of uninterrupted sleep while listening to ASMR.
- Deep bass
- Bluetooth-enabled
- Soft ear cushions
- Wireless and wired options
- Up to 30 hours of battery life
- Built-in microphone and control buttons
- Proprietary 45 mm large-aperture drivers
- Advanced, low-frequency active noise cancelling
- Not comfortable to wear while sleeping
- No noise reduction of higher-frequency sounds
Top Headphones for ASMR: The Runner-Ups
6. Shure SE215
As a side-sleeper, I am personally not a fan of having earbuds in while sleeping. That being said, Shure SE215 have a lot to offer in terms of both sound quality and enhancing your ASMR experience.
Shure SE215 draw heavily on personal sound-monitoring technology used by professional musicians. This should help ensure a detailed sound experience with enhanced bass for listening to any audio content, including personal monitoring. Shure SE215 are, therefore, a great match for those of you who have their own ASMR channel or think of starting one.
These earbuds also claim to cancel up to 37 dB of ambient noise using their specially designed isolating sleeves. They are also lightweight, discreet, and available in three sizes to ensure a good seal and a comfortable fit.
Another definite advantage is that Shure SE215 are available in both wired and wireless versions. They also come with several detachable cables and in multiple color options. That means you can customize them to suit your personal preference and lifestyle.
- Customizable
- Bluetooth-enabled
- Multiple color options
- Both wired and wireless headphones
- Detailed sound and enhanced bass
- Tested by professional musicians
- Great for personal sound-monitoring
- Can be used for professional purposes
- Active noise cancelling of up to 37 dB
- Available in three sizes (S, M, and L)
- Lightweight and discreet
- Durable reinforced cable
- Secure over-ear placement
- Built-in mic and control buttons
- Compact carrying case
- Not very comfortable to sleep in
- The wireless version has only up to 10 hours of battery life
7. Apple AirPods
If you have a newer iPhone model, you probably already have a pair of Apple AirPods. Personally, I’m not a massive fan — they make me anxious that they could fall off from my ears and I’d end up losing them. However, many people like the AirPods, and they really do have a lot going for themselves, so I had to include them in the runners-up list.
The AppleAirpods are all about ease of use and seamless functionality. They come with a handy charging case and turn on and connect automatically to your device. They are also very easy to pair with all of your Apple devices.
You can easily switch between devices, quickly charge the AirPods while on the go, and access Siri by simply saying, “Hey, Siri.”
In terms of sound quality, the AirPods manage to deliver rich audio. Still, unless you get Apple AirPods Pro, they have no noise cancelling properties.
- Wireless
- Very easy to use
- Bluetooth-enabled
- Good sound quality
- Protective case and charger all in one
- Great choice for anyone looking for a lightweight, compact, and discreet design
- One size only
- On the pricier side
- Easy to lose or misplace
- No noise cancelling function
- Only compatible with iOS devices
8. GRADO SR60o Prestige Series
The last runner-up in my ASMR headphones list, the GRADO SR60e Prestige Series wired headphones, offers some of the best sound quality out there. This product was developed with the audiophiles in mind. It aims to deliver the legendary Grado sound in an affordable, open-back headphone set.
GRADO SR60e is an upgrade on earlier models, featuring a new driver and cable design and an improved polymer formula. Taken together, these features help to better eliminate resonant distortion in the plastic casing.
All that should provide you with excellent sound quality throughout the frequency spectrum and a highly realistic sound experience. That’s perfect for the purposes of ASMR.
A Buyer’s Guide: What You Need to Know Before Buying
Buying headphones for ASMR is not the same as buying headphones for work or simply listening to music and podcasts. Here are a few things you really ought to consider before splurging on a high-tech pair of headphones, only to discover that they don’t serve the purpose.
Design and Comfort
ASMR is all about the relaxation of the body as well as the mind. Therefore, you should look closely into the design of your chosen headphones and decide whether it fits the way you like to enjoy your ASMR.
The very first thing to do is choose between earbuds, headphones, or a headband set. Other factors to consider are the wiring, size, weight, and material.
What you choose largely depends on how you listen to ASMR and your sleep style. Questions to consider include:
- Do you lie in bed while watching ASMR videos?
- Do you tend to fall asleep while listening, or do you always make sure to turn off your device and remove your headphones?
- Are you a side-sleeper?
- Do you toss and turn a lot while sleeping?
- Are your earlobes sensitive?
- Do you sweat at night?
As a general rule, headbands are your go-to products if you are a side-sleeper or tend to sleep with your headset on all night. However, they might not work for you if you have sensitive skin or a tendency to sweat.
Earbuds may not be the best option for those with sensitive ears, but are great for anyone looking for a lightweight, breathable, and less restrictive design.
Headphones are definitely the heaviest and bulkiest of the three, but also provide the best sound quality. That makes them an excellent choice for those who like to fully immerse themselves in the ASMR sound universe without necessarily falling asleep.
In any case, wireless devices are definitely a must if you toss and turn a lot.
Battery Life
Another key factor to consider is your headphones’ battery life.
A long battery life is particularly important for anyone with insomnia or other sleep conditions who needs a lot of time to fall asleep. Other people simply like to spend many hours listening to ASMR before going to sleep every night. Some need continuous ASMR or another form of white noise throughout the night.
If you are one of them, then you want to make sure that the battery of your device can handle prolonged use. Alternatively, double-check that you can use your headset even while it is charging.
Active Noise Cancelling
ASMR is a quiet affair. Therefore, to properly enjoy the gentle whispers, soft tapping, and finger fluttering, you need to block all harsh outside noises. That may not be much of a problem if you live in a quiet area or your building has good isolation, but not everyone is that lucky.
If you suspect that you might need to block a lot of external sounds, look into getting a headset with active noise cancelling. Best of all, you can use this feature on its own without listening to any audio content. Simply put your headphones on, and your snoring partner or chattering colleagues will fade away.
Price Point
You may already have a pair of high-quality headphones. Perhaps you are on a budget. Either way, there isn’t much point in buying the best and most expensive state-of-the-art headset, if you are only going to use it for recreational ASMR.
As much as I love ASMR videos, they aren’t opera productions. Enhanced sound quality can only improve your virtual ASMR experience so much. If you want to take it up a notch, then consider booking a real-life spa weekend — your money would be better spent.
Besides, it might not be very wise to spend a lot of cash on headphones that would routinely end up under your head for hours on end each night. That is bound to cause some inevitable wear and tear, and you may have to get a replacement sooner than you thought.
Connectivity
Finally, you need to think about connectivity. The last thing you want is to purchase a new pair of ASMR headphones, only to find that they won’t pair with your computer or mobile devices.
Connectivity is particularly problematic for the Apple AirPods, which are only compatible with iOS. Likewise, the Bose AR function only works for iPhones and iPads. However, the developers are currently working on getting it compatible with Android, too, so stay put.
The
I hope that my reviews have been useful to you and will help you find the best ASMR headphones for you. In the end, however, choosing the right headset all comes down to personal preference.
Personally, as I only use ASMR to help me fall asleep and don’t listen to it all night, I am looking for a pair of headphones. They provide excellent sound quality, allow my head to breathe, and don’t irritate my ears as earbuds do. Currently, my best pick is the COWIN E7 PRO, as the Bose QuietComfort 35 II is somewhat out of my price range.
However, if you do listen to ASMR all night or for most of the night, one of the headband models might be the best choice for you. Out of these, the AcousticSheep SleepPhones are my personal favorite. They have good credentials, an impressive award track record, and were developed by an actual physician.
In any case, whatever headset you choose, I wish you many blissful nights of ASMR!
Editor Side Notes: Are you planing to have a long ride for a whole day when you wake up in the morning? a motorcycle ride without music is quite not fun and “focused” you can be. So here is our guide on the best motorcycle earbuds as we have reviewed 5 products for you to enjoy with your motorcycle ride.
