People who wear glasses on a daily basis face challenges unknown to their 20/20 brethren. One of those problems is finding a set of headphones that work well with glasses. In our experience, many headphones just aren’t up to the challenge of providing great, immersive sound without cramming the glasses’ earpieces into users’ temples. However, with a little bit of searching, wearing headphones with glasses won’t be much of an issue. With that in mind, we looked for the best headphones for glasses wearers, so you don’t have to.

We checked out headphones in all shapes and forms, but mostly ones with wide, adjustable headbands, lots of cushioning, and enough flexibility to accommodate a wide range of frame sizes. So, whether you’re nearsighted, farsighted, or just rock blue light-blocking lenses, there should be a great fit on this list for you.

The Best Headphones for Glasses Wearers

Beats Solo3

If you’re looking for the best headphones for glasses wearers who travel or commute a lot, the Beats Solo3 is a great option. These on-ear headphones fold down to a minuscule size, and their padded case and durable build make them easy to throw in a bag without worry. Owing to the Solo3’s wireless connectivity, they pair quickly and easily. But these bad boys also come with a cord, so when the battery dies, you can keep the tunes going.

You’ll hardly ever need it, though — with 40 hours of battery life, you can get a week’s worth of work done before you need to charge it. And with the rapid charging, you can squeeze 3 hours of playback out of a quick five-minute charge. For glasses wearers, the adjustable headband and soft leather ear cups provide a perfect fit, allowing us to wear them for hours on end without any discomfort. After a long workday with glasses on, my ears were a bit sore, but it was a small price to pay for the portability.

And the mic is clear as a bell, too. We’ve used these on video conferences and phone meetings and have never had any complaints from anyone on the receiving end.

Purchase

Bose Quiet Comfort 35 II

Bose is a force to be reckoned with in the audiophile world, and the Quiet Comfort 35 II is a great example of why the brand is so well-regarded. One of the most comfortable headphones for glasses, the sound quality coming from these headphones is also outstanding. As well, they’re definitely one of the best choices in their price segment. The audio performance is very balanced, making Bose QC 35 II great headphones for just about any kind of music. What’s more, it remains balanced even if you crank up the volume, which is not true of many headphones on the market.

Comfort-wise, Bose QC 35 II performs equally well when worn by people with and without glasses. The headband would benefit from more padding, but it’s not a huge issue. Since the QC 35 II model connects to devices wirelessly, you don’t have to worry about tangled and damaged cables. Of course, there’s also a headphone out jack in case you want to use the traditional wired connection.

If you commute a lot, you’re probably going to love the Bose QC 35 II’s built-in noise cancellation feature. It is highly effective, canceling out even louder outside noises and allowing you to concentrate on your music. In addition, the QC 35 II model is officially Alexa-certified, which means that you can talk to Alexa when wearing these headphones. Whether you want to find out more about the weather, add bread to your shopping list, or play some smooth jazz, just say it, and Alexa will take care of it for you.

Purchase

Audio-Technica ATH-M30

If you’re looking for a great pair of headphones for glasses, but don’t want to spend a lot of cheddar, the Audio-Technica ATH-M30 might be a perfect fit. Audio-Technica is a well-established name in the audio world, so you can be sure that these headphones will deliver quality sound. They may not have the same quality as the company’s ATH-M50s, but at less than half the price, you won’t be disappointed.

The ATH-M30’s are full-size over-the-ear headphones under $100, which means they’ll sit comfortably on your head without adding undue pressure on your ears. This means that you can rock any kind of glasses frame with these bad boys for hours without any discomfort.

The only problem you may find with these is that they aren’t overly portable. Since they’re not as solid as the high-end headphones in Audio-Technica’s lineup, you’ll want to take some care when putting them in a bag. The long cable can also be unwieldy during workouts, and there’s no microphone for taking calls or Zoom meetings. If you’re looking for a pair of headphones for working out or meeting online, these may not be the ones for you. But if you just want a good, affordable pair of headphones for working at home, they’re a great choice.

Purchase

Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 80 Ohm

Want studio-quality sound, but don’t want to pay studio-quality prices? Then check out the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro model. Built with audio professionals in mind, these German-made headphones are available in multiple impedance options ranging from 32 to 250 Ohm. If you’re actually an audio professional, you may want to go for the higher end of that range. But if you’re an audiophile, we recommend you stick right in the middle with the 80 Ohm option. It’s probably the most versatile entry in the lineup and will put out great sound from just about any source.

As far as comfort goes, the Beyerdynamics are a good option for people with wider and/or larger heads thanks to the extra flexible headband with lots of soft padding. They’re also full-size headphones, so you shouldn’t have any issues with your glasses while wearing them. These headphones may require some time to wear in and adjust to your head, so don’t be disappointed if you don’t get a perfect fit straight out of the box.

If you’re a commuter, the DT 770 Pro studio headphones are not the most portable headphone set imaginable. They can’t be folded, and the non-detachable cable means you need to be extra careful with it. On the bright side, the velour pads are replaceable, so you don’t have to worry too much about damaging those. That said, the Beyerdynamics really shines when being used at home or at the workplace, since we wouldn’t recommend putting them through the daily wear and tear inside a commuter bag.

Purchase

Sennheiser Urbanite XL

If you’ve got a big dome, point that melon at the Sennheiser Urbanite XL. Sennheiser is a German brand with over 100 years of experience in all things audio-related, so it’s pretty safe to say you’d be getting a quality piece of gear with the Urbanite XL. However, they might not be the best option if you’re into classical music or jazz, as they’re pretty bass-heavy and thus more suitable for people who want some thump to their music.

Wearing the Urbanite XL with glasses should be no problem at all, as they have a wide, adjustable headband and big, cushy earpads. Such thick padding provides a very comfortable fit for people with larger heads. Covered in durable denim, the headband can take a lot of wear and tear before something goes wrong with it. Plus, the denim headband gets style points for distinctiveness.

Since these headphones were designed for portable use, you get a nice travel pouch to protect them from scratches and physical damage, so they make great headphones for travel and commuting. The cable is detachable, and you can choose from several cable options, including cables with customized controls for iOS and Android devices.

Purchase

Sony MDR1AM2

Sony is widely known for its wide array of electronics, not the least of which is its iconic PlayStation console family. However, Sony is also a strong player in the audio field, with a countless number of top-notch headphones and speakers. The MDR-1AM2 model is a great example of why Sony is well-respected among audiophiles. These headphones sound almost neutral, with a slight emphasis on the lower mids and heavy bass. This allows the MDR-1AM2 to sound warm but not distorted and makes them a great option for everyday listening as well as for hearing every nuance on your favorite vinyl.

These headphones sport padding that looks slight but is extremely cushy and may be the most comfortable model for people with glasses. The ergonomic headband design allows the weight of the headphones to be distributed evenly without creating points of pressure on your head or ears. And thanks to the 6.6-ounce weight, you may even forget that you’re wearing them.

They don’t fold, but their ear cups do rotate toward the inside of the headband for more convenient storage and transportation. Sony MDR1AM2 headphones come with a travel pouch, so you can take them with you everywhere you go without taking up a lot of space in your backpack. They’re on the pricier side of headphones, but their comfort and sound quality will make them feel like a bargain.

Purchase

Samson SR850 Studio Reference

If you’re stoked on all these headphones, but they’re all out of your price range, you’ll be stoked to see the Samson SR850 Studio Reference, a truly budget-friendly set of headphones, on our list. At just a fraction of what most of our previous entries cost, these budget headphones still manage to deliver good-quality audio and feel surprisingly comfortable for glasses wearers.

While the sound quality isn’t as good as what the higher-end models can offer, you’re not going to find better sound for under fifty bucks. Even so, the sound coming out of the SR850 headphones is surprisingly clear, with crisp highs and punchy lows. So, don’t expect to get the muffled, thin sound (associated with many off-brand headphones) from Samson SR850, because they’re clearly capable of more.

The SR850 model is available in several versions. It may be tempting to get the Basic or Studio ones since they’re cheaper and they actually look pretty cool, but we highly recommend the “Studio Reference” if comfort is a priority. The headband of the Studio Reference headphones is completely different than what you get with the other two models, meaning a world of difference for people wearing glasses. Thanks to the extremely wide, auto-adjustable headband, these headphones can be a good fit for just about anyone, with plenty of space to comfortably accommodate your glasses.

Purchase

Headphones for Glasses Wearers Buying Guide

Features to Look for in Headphones for Glasses Wearers

Size – How well a set of headphones fits you is a huge factor in how comfortable they’re going to be. For people who wear glasses, this presents a unique challenge. The headphones will have to be tight enough to provide a tight seal, but not so tight that they squash your ears and glasses frames into your head. Most headphones sport adjustable headbands so you can customize the fit to an extent. But if you have an especially large or small head, keep an eye out for an XL or XS option.

Ear Pad Material – When it comes to comfort, ear pads are a crucial component when it comes to headphones. Since they are what comes in contact with your eyeglass frames, they’re where the potential for discomfort lies. Even slight pressure can press your eyeglass frames into your temples, which can cause some pretty savage discomfort, especially during long periods of wear.

Look for especially squishy ear pads made with a softer external material like velour or soft leather. These materials will conform around your glasses’ earpieces, instead of cramming them into your temples.

Over-ear vs. On-ear Headphones – For the most part, headphones come in two different forms: over-ear headphones and on-ear headphones. (The ones that go in your ears are called earbuds). Choosing which kind depends on personal preference, but there are a few things to consider.

• Over-ear headphones have larger cups designed to fit over the entire ear. This provides a secure seal around the ear for better sound and noise cancellation. They also eliminate any pressure points on your ears since your head is the only point of contact. This is doubly true for people who wear glasses.
• On-ear headphones are smaller and lighter thanks to their smaller ear cups, which rest on the ears instead of over them. These headphones are generally more portable, but they can pose a problem for people with glasses since they add pressure between the ears and eyeglass frames.

Headband – A good, padded headband is ideal for comfort in general. But if you wear glasses, adjustability is a bigger factor. Some headphones have headbands that can expand and retract to allow you to customize how they fit. This is perfect for glasses wearers since you can try a few different settings with them to dial in a comfortable fit.

Glasses Frames – You’re going to be wearing your glasses a lot more often than your headphones, so a good fit with your glasses should be your priority. No matter how much music (or how many crime podcasts) you listen to, headphones are a peripheral piece of gear compared to your glasses. So, make sure your glasses are a comfortable fit, then buy a pair of headphones that works well with them.

Versatility – For office wear, things like portability are secondary to comfort. A well-fitting pair of headphones that’s comfortable enough to wear for an entire workday should be your highest priority if you’re buying a pair for the office.

If you want a more versatile pair to wear during your commute, to the gym, or for travel, you’ll need to consider a few more things. Look for a durable pair that packs down small. This way, it won’t take up a ton of space in your pack and won’t get damaged while it bounces around in your bag.

Also, a wireless connection might be ideal, so you won’t get tangled up running on a treadmill or fidgeting around in your airplane seat.

Headphones for Glasses Wearers FAQ

What are the best headphones for people who wear glasses?

Since people come with different-sized heads and wear a wide range of glasses types, there’s no one pair of headphones that is perfect for everyone who wears glasses. There are, however, a few things to look for if you wear glasses.

The best headphones for people with glasses should have soft ear cups, so they won’t put a lot of pressure on your eyeglass frames. Also, look for a pair with an adjustable headband so you can customize your fit.

Once you’ve found a pair that seems like a good fit, check the reviews online to get an idea of how they sound, then look for any other features you’d want, like Bluetooth connectivity.

Can people with glasses wear headphones?

People who wear glasses absolutely can wear headphones. There are plenty of great headphones for glasses wearers that are comfortable and provide great sound. For the most part, over-ear headphones are the most comfortable for glasses wearers, but there are also great glasses-friendly headphones that go on the ears as well.

How do you wear noise-canceling headphones with glasses?

You wear them just like you wear any other noise-canceling headphones. A good pair of headphones will have ear cups that are soft enough to wrap around and provide a tight seal over eyeglass frames.

Sources:

1. The Most Common Problems You’ll Encounter as a Glasses-Wearer – Innes Eye Clinic

We’re still working on the spaceships to get people to Mars, but our Martian wristwear is all set to go. Russian watchmaker Konstantin Chaykin has created the aptly-named Mars Conqueror Mk3 Fighter — the first Martian mechanical watch in history. And holy cow, is it loaded with features.

Mk3 Fighter Features

Like everything with this watch, the titanium build is an intentional nod to the traditional aircraft and spacecraft material. Triangular edges complement the trapezoidal design, which resembles the mooring lock of a spacecraft docking system.

Guided by what he needed from a watch during his time in the military, Chaykin made the hands large enough to be clearly distinguished from the dial. And as a tribute to the vehicles that would be getting the explorers to Mars, he designed the hands with the distinctive shape of rockets.

Martian Time

One of the most interesting features of this watch is the “Mars Time” feature. To figure out Martian time, Chaykin had to actually work out a synchronization between Mars time and Earth time. On the watch face, the larger dial tells the terrestrial time, while smaller dials display the time and date on Mars. As a result, the watch can be used to show the duration of missions in sols (Mars-days).

While it’s a unique and showy piece, this “Mars Time” function gives the Mars Conqueror Mk3 Fighter some actual street cred. Its functionality as a potential timepiece for Mars explorers makes it one of a kind.

Universally Rare

Well, eight of a kind, anyway. If you’re looking to get one of these watches, you have about as good a chance of snagging one as you do of actually going to Mars, since only eight of the first edition have been made. Each Mk3 Fighter demands €19,710, or around $24,000 USD at the time of writing.

There’s no word on water resistance, but until we find water on the Red Planet, that shouldn’t be an issue.

Purchase

Last week, Seiko added the Style 60’s to its Presage line. The watch line takes inspiration from vintage Seiko watches from the 1960s. As you’d imagine, taking design cues from watches that were made in the middle of the last century results in a simple, clean design. The two models within the series display either the time and date or a simple 24-hour subdial. The Style 60’s sport earth-tone dial variations as well as vintage-looking crystal and bezel designs, mixing older styling with some updated tweaks.

Seiko Presage Style 60’s: Retro Look

The watch rocks a “Mad Men in Japan” vibe, thanks to the earth tones and faux-aging details. Among the variants (of which there are plenty), the ivory dial with gilt accents looks like it came straight out of a time when everyone wore fedoras and people dressed up to get on an airplane.

Versatility & Innovations

Mid-century modern styling aside, the versatility of these Seiko watches is outstanding. The thin bezel gives the classic styling a sporty look and adds a casual touch to an otherwise dressy watch. The Presage Style 60’s blend of classic and minimalist styling works just as well with a three-piece suit as it does wearing a sweatsuit in first class.

Little tweaks like downward-facing lugs for a wrist-hugging fit and lug holes for easy band swapping are great touches, and the 40.8-millimeter case is big enough to be noticed, but not so big that it shouts from the rooftops.

Bringing It All Back Home

Seiko reached back into the past and tweaked a classic design to create a new watch that drips with old-school style. If you’re looking to upgrade your look regardless of your style, keep an eye out for these bad boys when they hit select retailers this June (MSRP $525-$575).

Purchase

If you’ve ever played air guitar and dreamed of playing like your favorite hair band, Mictic’s body instrument gets you one step closer with its motion-sensing technology. Mictic wristbands connect to your phone via Bluetooth and create a variety of music based on your movements and the wristband’s settings. The two bands allow you to play your own air instruments or generate a custom soundtrack to however you feel like dancing.

How Mictic Wristbands Work

Each bracelet is roughly the shape and size of a Fitbit. They work by sending accelerometer data to the Android or iOS app, which the app interprets into music. Depending on the mode, it can spit out industrial noises to compliment your sweet-ass robot moves or drop heavy drum and bass, picking up the pace with you as you reach a fever pitch.

The bands also let you play a form of air piano and drums, changing tone as you move your hand right to left and generating beats to match your air piano virtuosity. In another mode, you can sit in a chair and perform the hand motions of playing the cello, and the bands will interpret your movements to help you sound like Yo-Yo Ma playing an invisible instrument.

Analysis

While the precision of playing an actual instrument isn’t there, the Mictic bands do deliver the ability to bypass the trauma of those piano lessons your mom made you take all summer. Skipping training and just playing a damn piano already is a great concept. At first glance, it seems like a fun and interesting toy to experiment with. But we wouldn’t be surprised to catch street performers and YouTube phenoms cranking out some legitimate tunes in the near future.

There’s no air guitar setting as of this writing, so don’t expect to shred like Bill and Ted…yet.

Availability and Pricing

Mictic is available for preorder at $99 and is expected to ship in September 2021.

Purchase

Sometimes owning a multi-million-dollar supercar isn’t enough. Some folks also need a diamond-encrusted replica of the engine mounted on their wrist as well. This is why Jacob & Co.’s Bugatti Chiron Tourbillon Baguette Black and Orange Sapphires watch exists.

Bugatti Chiron Tourbillon Specs

In partnership with Bugatti, noted luxury watch brand Jacob & Co. has just released a highly technical watch inspired by the absurdly powerful Bugatti Chiron. The tourbillon houses a blinged-out miniature reproduction of the Chiron’s W16-cylinder engine.

Sporting 190 baguette white diamonds, 169 baguette black sapphires, and 42 baguette orange sapphires invisibly set in an 18k white gold case. To properly fix the stones in the case, Jacob & Co. stated that the get-setters used new proprietary techniques and advanced technologies.

The 55mm by 44mm case sports the similar flowing lines of the Chiron and a few Bugatti logos to make the watch’s inspiration clear. Inside the case is a replica of the Chiron’s 1,500 horsepower 8.0-liter 16-cylinder engine, with 16 tiny pistons and a steel crankshaft that actually move as they do in the real engine. To complete the illusion, two turbochargers spin in tandem with the cylinders (two less than the actual car, but likely two more superchargers than you’re wearing right now). Framing the engine are two “exhausts” which complete the theme.

It’s equipped with Jacob and Co.’s 578-component JCAM37 manual winding movement, which is suspended in four places with parts reminiscent of the Chiron’s automobile shocks. The shocks are visible through the sapphire crystal window and provide a 60-hour power reserve that’s indicated by the gas pump symbol on the side of the gauge (because why not).

Even the crowns pay homage to the famed supercar. Set into the back of the case like exhaust pipes, the left crown sets the time, the middle crown winds both the movement and the engine animation, and the right-hand crown starts the animation.

Availability & Pricing

Yes, it is an extremely gaudy and intricate timepiece, but if you’re a Bugatti fan, subtlety is probably not your thing anyway. While most people aren’t in the market for a watch in this price range, it is a beautiful example of artwork, engineering, and design. Just like the car that serves as its inspiration.

If black and orange sapphires aren’t your thing, the watch is also available in black, blue, or grey titanium, rose gold, and diamond baguette versions as well as one with a case made entirely out of a single block of sapphire crystal.

Jacob & Co.’s Bugatti Chiron Tourbillon Baguette Black and Orange Sapphires is going for $560,000, which is a steal compared to the 3 million dollar supercar on which it’s based. Good thing you loaded up on all that Dogecoin.

If you’re still feeling the hangover from Star Wars Day, the Citizen Star Wars watch collection will help you keep the Force going strong until the next May 4^th and beyond.

The 15-watch series offers a range of styles and themes from the Death Star trench run to an array of the iconic characters from both sides of the Force. The two newest offerings in the lineup take the watch styling back to the 80s with some modern upgrades.

A Long Time Ago…

The stainless steel Rebel Pilot and the black stainless steel Trench Run both sport the square case and digital-analog features from the 80s with some modern Star Wars-inspired tweaks. The Rebel Pilot (MSRP $350) sports dual time and subdials with X-Wing and Rebel colors, as well as the Rebel emblem and an X-Wing profile in the analog faces.  In addition, the mode indicator screen showcases Rebel helmet accents on the face.

If you’re on the fence between the Rebellion and the Empire, the Trench Run has details from both sides of the fight. Commemorating the epic race to destroy the Death Star in Star Wars: Episode IV — A New Hope, it has the same square profile and digital-analog faces, but the analog faces showcase the X-Wing and Tie Fighter cockpit views as well as silhouettes of both ships peppered throughout the face.

The Features are Strong with These Ones

Both watches have two analog and two digital displays, with a mode indicator and temperature sensor, just like the original models from the early 80s. The analog faces display two different time zones, while the digital faces display a range of functions, including temperature and date. They also have an alarm function and are splash-proof, but not submersible.

A Galaxy (Far Away) of Options in the Citizen Star Wars Watch Collection

If the 80s look doesn’t suit your style, Citizen also offers 13 other models in a more contemporary circular face. These watches are based on fan-favorite characters such as Boba Fett, Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker, and Yoda, as well as watches with designs with Stormtrooper and Millennium Falcon designs.

These analog watches come with a variety of bands, from leather on the Yoda, Millennium Falcon and Dagobah Limited Edition watches, to stainless steel on the R2-D2 and Prequel watches and a rugged fabric strap on the Boba Fett watch.

The watches also sport Star Wars quotes and designs etched on the case backs, including the classic Boba Fett quote “He’s no good to me dead” on the Boba Fett watch and an iconic Han Solo silhouette on the back of the Millennium Falcon watch.

For die-hard Star Wars fans, the Citizen Star Wars watch collection timepieces are a stylish and understated way to carry the Force with you wherever you go.

One can argue that the classic Hawaiian shirt, also known as the Aloha shirt, reached its first peak of coolness when Tom Selleck made them his uniform on the classic 80’s TV show Magnum P.I. Following their endorsement by the godfather of mustaches, they reached a nadir when retirees made them their uniform of choice when lounging around in Florida. California Cowboy brought the Aloha back with its terry cloth-lined High Water Shirt with its custom designs, slimmer fit, and hidden tech. And now, the company has released the High Water Tropic,  a hot weather version with all the features, minus the lining for comfort in warmer temps.

Features, Testing, & Review

One thing is clear when you put on this shirt: these guys know how to party. Every feature on this shirt is designed to make your drinking and socializing more efficient, from the sunglass loop on the front to the perfectly sized beer koozie/pocket just above the back hem. There’s even a hidden pocket for your phone that’s completely waterproof, so you don’t have to do that frantic twist-and-throw if your buddies decide to throw you in the pool.

While all of those features are well thought out and useful, they don’t mean anything if the shirt is too ugly to wear. Over my years of gear testing and reviews, I’ve come across countless pieces of apparel that sport handy features but look geeky as hell. Sure, I love a bunch of secure pockets, but I’m not going to go out with a shirt that makes me look like Bill Gates on safari. The dude has a lot of gifts, but style is not one of them.

During testing, it was immediately apparent that the style of the California Cowboy High Water Tropic shirt wasn’t going to be an issue. I wore the shirt during a night out, and people constantly stopped by my patio table and complimented the sweet pineapple design throughout the evening (it was a tiki bar, so natch). California Cowboy clearly knows what looks good.

It was comfortable as well — the fabric was stretchy yet substantial, and the cloth-like feel never gave me the impression that I was wearing workout clothes or a T-shirt. It was as comfortable as my favorite pair of sweats but looked and felt like my higher-end dress shirts.

And the features might seem gimmicky at first glance, but I used every part of this shirt — the sunglass holder gave me a perfect place to hold my sunnies when I went indoors, and the beer koozie and tech pockets gave me full use of my hands without having to put my drink or phone down.

Also, whipping out an open beer from behind my back and taking a swig looked like a magic trick to the inebriated.

The California Cowboy High Water Tropic: Conclusions

It is abundantly clear that the people who made this shirt are folks you’d want to hang with. The High Water Tropic (MSRP $115) is packed full of “why didn’t I think of that” features that we’ve all been wishing that we’ve had on our favorite shirts ever since we were old enough to drink.

While most tech-heavy shirts prioritize utility over style, this shirt is the perfect blend of both: it is loaded with features buried within an extremely comfortable shirt that looks great. This shirt will be the life of the party, even if you aren’t.

It’s available in sizes XS through XL and five different custom prints.

Purchase

Home safety is an ongoing concern; just driving around a neighborhood and seeing the amount of home security signs in front yards shows people’s focus on keeping their homes and families safe from intruders. From Ring doorbells to closed-circuit television systems and cameras aimed at every conceivable angle of the house, people can spend thousands of dollars on security systems. But while security systems will alert you to someone coming into your home, they don’t do much to help when someone is actually inside.

Alarm systems do make a racket and can alert the police, but a home intruder can do a lot of damage while you’re waiting for help to arrive. If someone is determined to get into your home, you’re going to need to send a stronger message. And few things tell someone to get out of your house like the “clack-clack” sound of a shotgun chambering a round. If that sound isn’t enough to let someone know they made a mistake by breaking in, staring down the barrel of the noisemaker should do the trick. If you’re looking for the best means of defending yourself and yours, take a look at our list of the best shotguns for home defense.

The Best Shotgun for Home Defense

Remington 870 Express Tactical Shotgun for Home Defense

If you’re not looking to survive the apocalypse and you just want a simple and affordable shotgun for home defense, take a good hard look at the 870 Express Tactical from Remington. The 870 is well-known for its reliability and simplicity by everyone from police officers to hunters. It’s widely touted as one of the best home defense shotguns available.

At around a quarter of the cost of some of the higher-end shotguns on this list, the 870 isn’t loaded with extraneous bells and whistles. Remington opts instead to let the 18.5-inch barrel and 7-round capacity take center stage.

It can fire both 2 ¾ and 3” 12-gauge shells, which gives users some options, and there is also an option for a ghost sight if you feel like spicing things up.

Though the 870 is a straightforward piece of hardware, its simplicity is one of its more significant perks. It does the job, it’s easy to use, and buying one won’t break the bank. Plus, its shorter barrel makes it one of the best short shotguns for home defense.

For more amazing firearms, check out our guide to the best bullpup rifles and shotguns.

Benelli M4 Shotgun for Home Defense

While many semi-automatic shotguns require one standard kind of ammo, the Benelli M4’s self-regulating gas system is designed to work with a range of shell options. This means you’re not limited to one specific type of ammo if you’re looking for a longer or more powerful shell.

One of the best tactical shotguns for home defense, the M4 comes standard with an 18.5-inch barrel and a six-shell capacity. The ghost ring sight and Picatinny Rail for aftermarket optics allow you to dial in your target, and the gas piston (similar to the AK-47) provides a rapid-fire response that will let you unload in a hurry.

The responsive two-stage trigger and corrosion-resistant coating add to the M4’s capabilities. This capability makes perfect sense, as this gun was initially designed for use by the United States Marine Corps, where it serves under the M1014 designation. If it’s good enough to defend the country, it should be good enough to defend your home.

Winchester 1897 Pump Action Shotgun for Home Defense

Even those who aren’t gun enthusiasts are likely to recognize the Winchester name, and the 1897 pump action firearm lives up to the name’s history and high standards. Available in either 12 or 16 gauge versions, the 1897 also comes in 20-inch or 30-inch barrel lengths.

That longer barrel may not be ideal for home defense, as the profile makes it harder to move around in tighter spaces. However, the smooth mechanics and reliability help it overcome that shortcoming. The 1897 also wins a lot of points for the classic styling and boasts ties to history as part of the brand known for taming the West (for better or worse).

Historically, this is the weapon that helped bring shotguns into the modern age. During World War I, a soldier could fire repeatedly holding down the trigger and continuously pumping the slide. It was so effective for clearing trenches that the German army lobbied for it to be made illegal in an international court.

Currently out of production, the 1897 is available on the aftermarket as both a defense and sporting tool, and as a popular item of historical interest.

Here are some of the top surplus rifles you can still buy. Check them out.

Remington Versa Max Tactical Shotgun for Home Defense 

If you’re looking at semi-automatic shotguns for home defense, this option from Remington is a great choice. Nobody who’s thinking clearly would stare down the barrel of the Remington Versa Max Tactical and feel like good decisions have led to this moment. This semi-automatic shotgun looks like a terror but feels like a teddy bear when you fire it.

While other shotguns can leave your shoulder feeling like a mule kicked every time you fire, the Versa Max Tactical is designed to reduce recoil shock with its gas action and a high-end recoil pad at the end of its butt-stock. Not only does this help improve accuracy, it also allows for a more rapid firing rate since you won’t have to shake off the impact every time you fire.

The synthetic stock fits comfortably in most hands, while an attachment point accepts a tactical flashlight. In addition, this semi-automatic can work with a wide range of slugs and buckshot rounds. The longer barrel places it out of the running if you’re looking for small shotguns for home defense, but if barrel length isn’t a concern, this is a great choice.

FN SLP Shotgun For Home Defense

If you’re a fan of customization and loading up your gear with aftermarket goodies, the FN SLP is the way to go. Manufactured by one of the most trusted brands in firearms, this semi-automatic shotgun works with a wide array of slugs and buckshot; this bad boy can fire just about anything you throw in the chamber. And thanks to the synthetic stock, you won’t be hurting as much as your target when you fire.

Even if you’re not looking to trick out your shotty, the SLP still a great choice for home security. The firing speed and accuracy are excellent, and the shorter barrel is ideal for moving around in tight spaces. Nothing worse for getting the drop on an intruder than knocking over a lamp with your overcompensating barrel. The only real knock that we’ve seen with this shotgun is that the weight takes some time to get used to. But once you’ve got that measured, it’ll likely be your favorite firearm in your gun safe.

Winchester SXP Extreme Defender

While the Winchester SXP Extreme Defender might not look like a gun from one of the oldest gun companies in the United States, this offering from Winchester still carries the craftsmanship and reliability that we’ve come to expect from Winchester. This pump-action shotgun sports an 18-inch barrel (great for use in tight spaces) and a five-round capacity. The pistol grip allows for excellent control and the burly sights make accuracy a snap.

And while its styling makes it look like something suited for the apocalypse, the total weight is under 8 pounds. This means you can add a laser or light attachment to the side-mounted Picatinny rail without making it unbearably heavy.

While it may not have the classic look and styling that we’re used to seeing from Winchester, the SXP is one of the top shotguns for home defense and signals that the company is still innovating and updating its output with new and modern designs.

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Mossberg 590A1 Tactical

If reliability and durability are your biggest concerns, your search should start and end with the Mossberg 590A1 Mil-Spec. Mossberg’s 590 series was reliable, to begin with, but they beefed up the A1 with more reliable corrosion resistance and used higher-grade steel to ramp up the durability. The result is a machine that passed the military’s Mil-Spec 3443# test, which requires shotguns to go through 3,000 full-powered rounds of buckshot with no more than 3 malfunctions and zero part breakages.

It’s a bit heavier due to the heavier steel used, the heavy polymer stock, and the heavy wall barrel. But if you can pick it up, all that weight goes a long way towards reducing the recoil, keeping your shoulder in its socket, and your rounds where you want them to go. The ghost ring sights further aid the accuracy and the Picatinny rail can mount a red dot sight.

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Mossberg 500 Pump Action Shotgun

With over 100 years of experience, it’s no wonder that Mossberg has developed a shotgun often hailed as the “best tactical shotgun” of all time. With a nameheld in high regard by the United States government and law enforcement alike, Mossberg’s 500 Pump Action is a force to be reckoned with.

A six-round capacity of 12-gauge rounds makes sure that you’ve got enough ammo to resolve most home defense situations. But hopefully, the 28” barrel is intimidating enough to end the situation without firing a shot. The longer barrel isn’t ideal for maneuverability, but it’s still one of the best shotguns that you’ll find at this price.

Shotgun for Home Defense Buying Guide and FAQ

Features to Look for in Shotguns for Home Defense

Reliability – The single most important part of any home defense weapon is that it will do its job when you need it to. When searching out the best shotgun for home defense, make reliability one of the first things you check. Look at user reviews, well-crafted best-of lists, and any other resource that you can find to make sure that your shotgun will work when you need it to. Also, keep an eye on well-known manufacturers with good reputations like Benelli, Mossberg, Remington, and the like.

Barrel Length – When it comes to home defense, a shorter barrel is better. For hunting, a longer barrel is ideal for hitting moving targets. But for moving around in a tight space (like in your house), use the shortest barrel that you can legally get away with. Right now, that’s 18 inches minimum. This will allow for greater maneuverability as you creep down the stairs or across the living room to see what just kicked your door in. If you want maximum maneuverability, look for small shotguns for home defense.

Stock Size – Usually, the smaller the stock, the bigger the recoil effect. But if a stock is too big, then the gun will be all but impossible to fire. Make sure that the stock will fit every adult in the house that you trust to use it. That way, everyone can take advantage of it in case the primary user is incapable. Also, some stocks will have a form of cushioned material on the end that will help absorb recoil.

Weight – A lighter gun can be more comfortable to hold, but don’t get caught up in finding the lightest shotgun on the market. A heavier gun will actually soak up more recoil, making it more comfortable to fire and more accurate. Also, you’re not going to be carrying it around all day. You’ll only be carrying it from the time you hear a window break to the time the cops haul off a home invader. Unless you’re packing for wandering the land after the zombie apocalypse, don’t worry about going with a super lightweight gun.

Flashlight – Yes, it will give away your position, but in a home defense situation, you have to be ABSOLUTELY sure of exactly what you’re shooting at. In low-light conditions with adrenaline running high, it’s critical to avoid mistakes at all costs. Look for a good shotgun for home defense that has a mounting option for a flashlight so you can see what you’re aiming at.

Sling – This may seem like a frivolous option, but a sling is a very necessary piece of equipment. If you lose control of your gun, you can’t defend your home with it, and what’s worse, the person who kicked in your front door could have a chance to grab it.  Here’s how it works: the less likely it is that you drop your gun, the less likely it is that someone else picks it up and shoots you with it. Seems pretty damn necessary now, doesn’t it?

Capacity – With the exception of double-barrel shotguns, which have a capacity of two shells, most shotguns will start with a capacity of 5 to 7 shells, which should be plenty for home defense. If you want a higher capacity, many shotguns can accommodate aftermarket tubes with larger shell capacity.

Types of Home Defense Shotguns

Pump action shotguns are fairly straightforward and easy to use, which makes them great for new users. You just fill the tube with shells and rack the shell into the chamber before firing. After firing, rack it again to eject the spent shell and load another one into the chamber.

These types of shotguns are lauded for their ease of use as well as for the fact that they don’t rely on any mechanical action to operate. Since you are the one ejecting the shells and reloading the chamber, there’s less of a chance of something breaking down in the shotgun. The only issue is that the speed of any shot after the first depends on how fast the user can rack it, so practice is required.

Double barrel shotguns for home defense can be good because they allow you to fire twice quickly before you have to reload. Also, you can fire both shots at the same time for maximum effectiveness.

Semi-automatic shotguns for home defense are an excellent option, as they allow shooters to rapidly fire follow-up shots. However, more moving parts mean more things can go wrong mechanically, and they are a lot more difficult to clean.

Home Defense Shotgun FAQ

Is a shotgun a good choice for home defense?

Many regard shotguns as the best guns for home defense. Shotguns are relatively simple to use and require less skill to place an effective shot than rifles or pistols. Shotguns cast a wider shot pattern, which means you don’t have to be super accurate to take down an intruder. This makes the shotgun an effective home defense tool even in inexperienced hands.

Also, when defending your home, bullet penetration is a real concern. You do not want your bullet to go through your wall and into your neighbor’s house. While it is still a possibility with shotguns, it’s much less likely if you use shot-shells versus slugs.

What is the best shotgun load for home defense?

For home defense, you’re looking at either buckshot or slugs. Buckshot shells fire nine .33-caliber bullets in a wide pattern, which is similar in effect to firing nine 9mm bullets at once. Slugs are basically large single bullets. They add range and accuracy, but they require a more precise aim. They are also much more likely to penetrate your walls and possibly your neighbor’s which can cause unanticipated harm.

I prefer buckshot for its widespread pattern, which makes it more likely that you’ll hit your target and because it’s much less prone to shooting through your walls.

What is the best caliber for home defense?

Referred to as “gauge” in the case of shotguns, the most common calibers (aka gauges) for home defense are 12- and 20-gauge. Both are highly effective; the main difference is in the recoil. Since a 20-gauge barrel is smaller than a 12-guage, the shells are smaller as well, which will cause less recoil when fired. This is a better option for users with smaller body types. 10, 16, 28, and .410 gauge shotguns also exist, but 12- and 20-gauge are the most common.

Sources:

1. How Shotguns Work – HowStuffWorks
2. Shotgun Shells Explained — The New Shooter’s Dictionary – Let’s Go Shooting