Introduction
Dyson headphones review: A year ago, Dyson introduced a bizarre product: a combination of high-end headphones and a wearable air purifier. It was ambitious, it was futuristic, and it was, frankly, one of the most absurd gadgets I have ever reviewed. Now, Dyson is back with a new iteration, but this time, they’ve removed the air purifier. What remains is a premium pair of over-ear headphones.
So, are these headphones a worthy competitor in the high-end audio space, or are they just an overpriced curiosity? Let’s dive in.
Design and Build Quality
Dyson headphones review: Dyson’s new headphones are priced at $500, which is $50 cheaper than the AirPods Max. The design remains unmistakably Dyson—bold, industrial, and unapologetically large. Unlike Apple’s offering, these headphones feature fully replaceable ear cushions ($50 per set) and customizable backplates.
These are the heaviest headphones I’ve ever tested, weighing in at 451 grams. However, Dyson has distributed the weight strategically by housing the batteries in the headband rather than the ear cups. This results in a more balanced feel, though they remain heavy compared to competitors. The construction is almost entirely metal, with only the top cushion providing soft padding.
Comfort and Fit
Dyson headphones review: Despite their weight, the Dyson headphones are surprisingly comfortable. The headband distributes pressure evenly, and the ear cushions provide a decent seal. However, the shallowness of the ear cups means that they may press against your ears, which could be an issue for extended listening sessions.
Features and Controls
Dyson headphones review: Dyson has incorporated some clever design choices:
- Interchangeable backplates and ear cushions – A simple twist mechanism allows you to swap them out for different colors.
- Physical joystick control – Located on the right ear cup, this joystick handles playback, volume, and track navigation. It’s tactile and easy to use.
- Noise cancellation toggle – A double-tap on the left ear cup enables or disables ANC. Unfortunately, this mechanism is inconsistent, working only about 50% of the time.
- On-head detection – Music automatically pauses when you remove the headphones and resumes when you put them back on.
- Multi-device pairing – You can connect them to both an iPhone and an Android device simultaneously.
- Dyson app integration – Allows you to adjust ANC modes and view real-time noise reduction graphs.
Sound Quality
These headphones sound good—but not great. Compared to the AirPods Max, Dyson’s offering falls short in almost every genre. The soundstage is relatively narrow, and instrument separation isn’t as pronounced as expected for this price point.
EQ Presets:
- Neutral – A flat, uncolored representation of the audio.
- Enhanced – Boosts bass and treble for a fuller sound. This is the best preset for general listening.
- Bass Boost – Exaggerates low frequencies, but at the cost of clarity.
Overall, these headphones deliver solid B+ sound quality—acceptable at a $300 price point, but underwhelming at $500.
Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode
Dyson headphones review: Equipped with eight microphones, Dyson’s ANC is decent but not best-in-class. Sony, Bose, and Apple still outperform it in noise cancellation. The transparency mode is functional but lacks the natural, open feel of the AirPods Max.
Battery Life
This is where Dyson truly shines. With a rated battery life of 55 hours (with ANC on), these headphones easily outlast the competition. For comparison:
- AirPods Max: 20 hours
- Sony WH-1000XM5: 30 hours
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra: 24 hours
Additionally, Dyson has included a physical power button, a feature that many high-end headphones inexplicably omit.
Portability and Case
Unlike foldable competitors, Dyson’s headphones can only rotate flat. They come with a rigid silicone case that offers minimal protection. It’s functional but far from ideal for travel.
Verdict: Who Are These Headphones For?
Dyson’s strategy seems clear: repurpose the R&D investment from their air purifier headphones into a standalone audio product. The result is a pair of premium, well-built headphones with excellent battery life and interesting design choices. However, when compared to established players in the high-end headphone market, they feel overpriced.
If you’re looking for customization, solid build quality, and best-in-class battery life, these might be worth considering. But if sound quality and noise cancellation are your top priorities, you’re better off with Sony, Bose, or even Apple’s AirPods Max.
Technical Specifications
- Weight: 451g
- Battery Life: Up to 55 hours (ANC on)
- Noise Cancellation: 8 microphones, active noise cancellation
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3, multi-device pairing
- Controls: Physical joystick, touch-sensitive ANC toggle
- EQ Presets: Neutral, Enhanced, Bass Boost
- Ear Cushion & Backplate Replacement: Yes ($50 per set)
- Portability: Rotates flat, does not fold
- Included Accessories: Silicone case, charging cable