When it comes to video editing, the main task is to create a product that can be sold. And preferably expensive. For this, it is necessary not only to have talent and improve your skills but also to invest money. Investing in the equipment on which the editor works will ensure quality work. And if the skills still need to be improved (and this should always be done), then good technique can significantly speed up the learning process.
A powerful computer is able to withstand the load of the software during operation. A high-quality monitor will provide a good picture and the correct color of your video. And professional headphones will provide you with high-quality sound reproduction and a wide range of high and low sounds.
Properly selected equipment will help an amateur become a real professional in the field of video editing. Therefore, if you have chosen this path, you need to invest money in your development.
Choosing headphones for video editing can be a real challenge if you don’t know what to look for. Because headphones are the thing that people use every day in everyday life. Many well-known brands create a wide range of goods for any buyer. And it can be difficult to understand which headphones to choose. For a video editor, there are several important factors to consider when choosing headphones. They will affect both listening to audio materials and working with them (editing sound, mixing it, removing noise and extraneous sounds, etc.).
Sound Quality and Accuracy
To ensure that no auditory detail goes unnoticed, opt for headphones that offer high-fidelity audio reproduction. Seek out models that offer a broad frequency range and minimal distortion. This feature ensures that you hear every sound from the lowest bass to the highest treble accurately. Also, headphones with a flat frequency response provide a neutral and uncolored sound, allowing you to hear the audio as it was intended to be heard. This balance guarantees that no frequency range dominates over others, giving you informed decisions during the editing process.
Another critical aspect of sound quality is the ability to distinguish between different audio elements. Clear and detailed sound imaging refers to the headphone’s ability to create an accurate soundstage, where individual audio elements can be perceived in their exact locations. This feature is particularly crucial when editing projects with spatial audio, as it allows you to place sounds precisely and create a realistic and immersive audio experience. With this, you can pinpoint the exact location of dialogue, musical instruments, and sound effects, ensuring their optimal placement within the video. With these headphones, you can delve into the intricacies of dialogue, music, and sound effects, enabling you to make precise adjustments.
Comfort and extended wear
Headphones for a video editor should be as comfortable as possible. The work can last many hours and it is important that both the ears and the head do not feel discomfort and do not hurt. Therefore, it is necessary to choose a type of headphones that will be ideal for long-term wear.
Over-ear type
The best type of headphones for video editing is over-ear headphones. This does not mean that another type is not suitable. Over-ear headphones due to their design with cushions that completely cover the ear. This isolation helps to minimize unwanted background noise, allowing you to focus more intently on the audio you are editing. By reducing external distractions, over-ear headphones create a controlled listening environment, enabling you to catch even the smallest audio details and nuances.

In addition to isolating external sound, such headphones will not transmit the sound you are listening to outside. Over-ear headphones feature solid ear cups that effectively contain the sound within the headphone enclosure, reducing the chances of audio leakage. This means that your audio edits, conversations, and sensitive project materials are kept private, allowing you to work with confidence and without causing distractions to your colleagues. Whether you’re working in a bustling office or a busy home environment, the isolation of external noise and prevention of audio leakage make closed-back headphones an ideal choice for maintaining concentration, privacy, and productivity during the video editing process.
Padded Ear Cups and Headband
To reduce the strain on the ears, look for headphones with padded ear cups. These soft cushions provide a gentle and supportive fit, reducing pressure on your ears. The cups create a comfortable seal around your ears, and at the same time do not put pressure on them even after several hours of wearing. The padding helps distribute the pressure evenly and provides a cushioned feel, reducing discomfort and fatigue during prolonged use. The soft materials not only enhance comfort but also help in isolating external noise, further enhancing the listening experience.

It is also worth choosing headphones with a headband. This will reduce the pressure of the structure on the head and make a pad between it and the head. The material from which the headphones are made is solid. And so that he does not rub his head during movement, there is a lining. With adequate padding, you can enjoy hours of editing without the distraction of discomfort or pain.
Weight and Size
Consider the weight and size of the headphones you choose. Lighter headphones tend to be more comfortable for extended wear as they exert less strain on your head and neck. But they may not completely cover the ear and create additional loads on the ear. Therefore, choose headphones that are not too small and not too large.
Also, keep an eye on the weight of the headphones. The heavier the headphones, the greater the load on the head and the less time you can work on them. Choose a weight within 300 grams and an average size of headphones. You can wear such headphones for a long period of time and not feel discomfort or pain.
By prioritizing comfort and extended wear, you can ensure that your audio editing sessions are free from unnecessary distractions and physical discomfort.
Cable and Connectivity Options
In addition to the headphones themselves, you should also pay attention to the cables and connectors they have.
Wireless headphones are not considered, because in video editing it is very important to have synchronized audio with the video. Wireless headphones have a delay in audio reproduction, which is unacceptable for work.
So, cables and connectors. The cable should not be too short so that you can sit at the necessary distance from the monitor, but not too long, so that it does not interfere with your work. The best cable length is 1-1.5 meters.
Detachable or Replaceable Cables
Detachable cables make storage and transport easier since you can separate the headphones from the cable. You simply disconnect them from the headphones and carefully pack them away. Such cables mostly do not get tangled, which increases their durability. If the cable gets damaged or worn out over time, you can replace it without having to replace the entire pair of headphones.

This feature extends the longevity of your headphones and allows for cost-effective maintenance. Detachable or replaceable cables offer flexibility and convenience, ensuring that your headphones remain functional and reliable for years to come.
Different Connector Options
Consider headphones that provide different connector options to accommodate various audio sources and equipment. Video editors can often work in different locations and on different devices. And in order to always be able to connect your headphones to them, you need to have a suitable connector.
The most common connectors are the standard 3.5mm (⅛ inch) and 6.3mm (¼ inch) jacks. The 3.5mm jack is commonly found on smartphones, laptops, and portable audio devices, while the 6.3mm jack is more prevalent in audio interfaces, amplifiers, and professional equipment. Having both connector options allows you to connect your headphones to a wide range of devices without the need for adapters. Additionally, some headphones offer balanced connectors, which provide improved audio performance by minimizing interference and crosstalk. Balanced connectors are commonly used in professional audio setups, offering enhanced compatibility for high-quality audio sources.
Specifications
To choose the right headphones, you need to know the necessary technical characteristics that are suitable for video editing. It depends on them whether your headphones will be able to produce quality sound without any distortion and whether you will be able to hear from the lowest tones to the highest. You can go into them in more detail, but I will write you the basic characteristics that headphones should have:
- Frequency Response – 5-35,000 Hz
- Impedance – 32 ohms (or more)
- Maximum Input Power – 1,000 mW (for wired connection) (or more)
Price Range and Recommendations
This is probably the first thing that needed to be decided, but not the most important thing in headphones. For the editor, quality is first of all important, and then you should look at the price.
Now you can find headphones of various interesting ranges. From cheap to extremely expensive. Each price range offers a number of technical characteristics and options. Therefore, first, you need to decide what you need from headphones. Choose the price range that offers them and among them look for the one that suits you best.
Wearing headphones for video editing will take some time, that’s true. But every development requires an investment of money. And if you want to grow and make more money, you need to be ready to spend. Well, proper care for headphones will increase their durability, which will reduce the need to often buy new devices.
When you decide on headphones, always pay attention to the reviews of those who have already purchased them. Look for reviews from individuals who have used the headphones for video editing purposes specifically, as their feedback will be most relevant to your needs. Pay attention to recurring themes or common issues mentioned in the reviews, as they can give you a better understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of each headphone model. If you see that there are complaints about certain nuances, then you should look for something else.
In addition to user reviews, seek recommendations from professionals or experienced video editors. They can provide valuable insights based on their firsthand experience and knowledge of the industry. Reach out to colleagues, mentors, or individuals within video editing communities or forums who can share their recommendations and experiences with specific headphone models. These individuals can offer guidance based on their understanding of the requirements and challenges of video editing and help you narrow down your choices to headphones that have proven to be reliable and suitable for the task at hand.
By understanding your priorities and limitations, you can determine a suitable budget range that aligns with your expectations. This will help narrow down your options and ensure a focused search for headphones that offer the best value for your investment. After all, you can always collect money and buy what you need.
Conclusion
Choosing devices for professional use is always difficult. And headphones are no exception. It takes a certain amount of time and effort. And of course money.
However, quality headphones will provide you with quality performance. A well-made sound will complement the video, enrich it and show that you are a real professional in your field. And you pay attention not only to the image but also to the sound. This is an investment that will definitely pay off the first time you use it!
FAQs
Can I use gaming headphones for video editing?
Gaming headphones are considered professional, so they produce high-quality sound with an emphasis on lethal (spatial and quiet noises). However, gaming headphones are not typically recommended for video editing because they are often designed with an emphasis on bass frequencies and may not provide accurate sound reproduction. It’s best to choose headphones specifically designed for audio monitoring and editing purposes.
Can I use earbuds for video editing?
Earbuds are not recommended for video editing because they often lack the sound quality, accuracy, and noise isolation required for precise audio monitoring. Their small drivers and open design may compromise the audio fidelity needed for professional video editing work.