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Beyerdynamic T5 3rd vs Sennheiser HD 800: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Sennheiser HD 800 comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 88. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Sennheiser HD 800 - Outstanding overall at around $1800.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Beyerdynamic T5 3rd
Sound8.5
Value7.0
Sennheiser HD 800
Sound9.5
Noise cancelling0.0
Value6.5

Specifications

Specification comparison of Beyerdynamic T5 3rd vs Sennheiser HD 800
SpecBeyerdynamic T5 3rdSennheiser HD 800
TypeOver-EarOver-Ear
Price (USD)$1000$1800
HearWiki score84 / 100 · Great88 / 100 · Outstanding
Released20202009
Audio
Driverdynamicdynamic
Driver size-56 mm
Drivers per side-2
Frequency response5Hz-50kHz14Hz-44.1kHz
Impedance32 Ω300 Ω
Sensitivity100 dB/mW102 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)-102
Wireless
Multipoint pairingNoNo
Features
Active noise cancellingNoNo
Design
Weight360 g330 g
Detachable cable-Yes
USB-CNoNo
Balanced connectionYesYes

What reviewers said

Beyerdynamic T5 3rd

The Beyerdynamic T5 3rd is a premium closed-back headphone that combines easy drivability with a wide frequency response, making it suitable for both portable and hi-res listening. Its lightweight, comfortable build and solid construction earn consistent praise, positioning it as a strong high-end option for those prioritizing convenience and quality. While it excels in everyday use, its low-impedance design offers limited headroom for dedicated amplifier enthusiasts.

  • Pro:Lightweight and comfortable for long sessions
  • Pro:Easy to drive from low-power devices
  • Pro:Wide frequency response for hi-res audio
  • Con:Limited benefit from dedicated amplifiers
  • Con:Closed-back design may restrict soundstage
  • Con:Price is steep for some buyers

Sennheiser HD 800

The Sennheiser HD 800 is a premium open-back headphone designed for audiophiles who prioritize an expansive, speaker-like soundstage and exceptional detail retrieval. Its large dynamic drivers and angled transducer placement deliver a wide, airy presentation with precise imaging, though it demands a powerful amplifier to perform at its best. While the price tag is steep, the combination of engineering precision, comfort, and clarity makes it a standout choice for serious listening at home.

  • Pro:Exceptional soundstage width and spatial imaging
  • Pro:Highly detailed and resolving treble with controlled bass
  • Pro:Very comfortable for long listening sessions
  • Con:Requires a high-power amplifier; not suitable for portable use
  • Con:Fully open design offers no noise isolation
  • Con:Expensive retail price

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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