You likely thought choosing a new pair of headphones would be easy, but the more you delved into it, the more complicated it seemed. There are so many different models and designs to choose from across a variety of popular brands, so how are you supposed to know which will suit you best?
In this article, you will learn about the three main types of headphones and their strengths and weaknesses so you can pick a new pair with confidence.
Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones are the types that fully enclose your ears as in the image above. These designs are generally considered best for overall sound quality as they produce a superior bass response due to a larger driver size (the main part of the headphones that converts the electrical signals into audio). Over-ear designs are also the best for noise canceling, so if this is a priority for you, these are what you will want to go for.
Thanks to the cushioning, you will also probably find over-ear designs to be the most comfortable out of the three, though they are more cumbersome to carry around.
In-Ear Headphones
In-ear headphones or ‘earbuds’ fit directly into the ear canal. There are several different types, with some featuring detachable caps so that you can find something that fits your ear perfectly, while others, like the Apple Airpods, feature an ergonomic design that suits most people.
In-ear headphones are the most convenient of the three designs and can easily slip into a pocket (especially if they come with a small case), and they are usually a more affordable option.
They do not offer quite as good sound quality as over-ear models because of the smaller drivers, however, and they can also be a little uncomfortable for some people if used for long sessions.
On-Ear Headphones
On-ear headphones can be thought of as a mixture between over-ear and in-ear. They rest on the ears without fully encapsulating them and offer medium-sized drivers, so they are a good balance between portability and sound quality.
Similarly to in-ear headphones, though, some people find that they become uncomfortable – and in some cases more so than in-ear models. They are also not ideal if you need noise cancellation.
Buying Tips
Now that you understand the key differences between the main types of headphones, here are a few tips to close off with:
Do Not Neglect Your Ear Health
It is very easy to damage your ears with headphones due to loud noise exposure. Always have your volume set to below 60%, and if you already suffer from hearing loss, you may need to be more selective about the models you choose (see an in-depth explanation).
Trial Headphones First To Find A Comfortable Fit
If you can, try on as many different styles and types of headphones as possible before settling on a purchase. What is comfortable for one will not be for another, so buying a pair online is always a gamble.
Take Good Care Of Your New Purchase
Headphones are delicate instruments, and even the best quality models do not take much of a beating. Always buy a case for them and clean them regularly. Happy listening!
