Beoplay H4 Headphones Review: Style & Comfort, But No Noise Cancelling

The H4 headphones immediately make a strong impression. They are exceptionally attractive – among the most visually appealing headphones available. Their design is both simple and elegant, drawing inspiration from classic models while remaining thoroughly contemporary and avoiding a dated aesthetic.

Comfort is also a key feature. They are remarkably comfortable, even for those, like myself, who typically experience ear discomfort with prolonged over-ear headphone use. Since receiving a pair from Bang & Olufsen for evaluation, I’ve worn them extensively while working from home.

The headphones feature generous padding around the edges of their circular earcups. My ears fit comfortably inside, without any pressure on the ear itself – a common issue with extended wear. Their weight is also moderate, contributing to the comfort. Weighing 8.3 ounces, they are positioned between the Bose QuietComfort 35 II (8.2 ounces) and the Sony WH-1000XM4 (8.96 ounces).

The earcups are finished in either matte black or limestone leather (a cream color), and feature a prominent brushed metal plate displaying the B&O logo, complementing the concentric circle design. The right earcup houses a volume control, a power/pairing switch, and an auxiliary cable port. The earcups also rotate smoothly, accommodating a wide range of head sizes.

The audio quality is pleasing. The sound is rich and full, although Bang & Olufsen emphasizes the bass frequencies somewhat in its tuning. While not as pronounced as in some other headphones, this bass emphasis is noticeable, especially with bass-heavy music genres like hip-hop. Those seeking a more balanced and accurate sound reproduction may prefer alternative options.

The lack of active noise cancellation is a significant drawback for headphones in this price range ($300 in 2020). Even if you don’t believe you require this feature, you may find it beneficial in various situations. For example, recent construction work near my home has made noise cancellation particularly valuable. The Bluetooth connectivity is adequate, but I experienced occasional dropouts while moving around my apartment, more frequently than with comparable models like the Sony headphones.

Battery life is also not class-leading. However, given the H4’s collapsible design and the absence of ANC, it’s likely the company isn’t primarily targeting frequent travelers. With a stated battery life of up to 19 hours, they are well-suited for daily use at home.