Headphones

Headphones: In-Ear, On-Ear, Over-Ear, and Wireless

Headphones are a must-have tech accessory for everyone. Whether you're listening to music, playing video games, or making a phone call, headphones let you perform tasks without everyone hearing what you're doing. These listening devices come in multiple varieties including in-ear, on-ear, over-ear, wireless, or open-ear. In-ear headphones have become increasingly popular thanks to their compact size and portability. At the office, hitting the gym, or on a plane, these tiny electronics are your trusted companion that easily tuck into a pocket, purse, or carry on bag. While on-ear and over-ear headphones look similar, they do have distinct differences. On-ear models have smaller earpads that sit on top of your ears whereas over-ear have larger earpads that fit around the entire ear. On-ear is smaller, lighter, and more portable, whereas over-ear is larger to hold more hardware and is generally reserved for heavy-duty or professional use. The most important distinction is that while both of these devices offer passive noise cancellation, over-ear devices feature Active Noise Cancellation (ACN). Those who commute via public transport or want a completely immersive listening experience should opt for over-ear. Wireless headsets are incredibly convenient as without wires, you're not tethered to your phone or whatever device you're listening from. Instead, they use Bluetooth to connect to your smartphone. Newer models feature Bluetooth 5.0, which has a greater connectivity range of up to 800 feet with fewer dropouts. Some even let you use voice commands like "Hey Siri" to control your tunes even if your phone is in the other room. Most styles, whether they're earbuds or over-ear, come in wireless options.

Open-ear headphones often take the form of sunglasses with audio technology built in. They're great for going for a run outside where you might need sun protection but wearing sunglasses and a headset together would be uncomfortable. If sunglasses aren't your thing, you can also go with a pair that simply wrap around the back of your head to stay in place and wrap around the outside of your ear. In general, over-ear headphones are great for people with sensitive ears. There are also niche styles that are designed for specific activities. Gaming headsets are designed to create an immersive experience that allows you to hear the quietest of sounds, like your opponent sneaking up behind you. Sweat- and water-resistant headsets and earbuds are perfect for athletes as they can handle the natural wear and tear that comes with an active lifestyle. For those who need to concentrate in loud environments, look for a noise-canceling headset that blocks out ambient noise while delivering high-quality, immersive audio. Many devices offer noise cancellation now so you can choose your preferred headphone style. If you're looking for a more in-depth explanation about the difference between each type, turn to our informative buying guide. If you still have questions, visit us in store or call our experts at 800-860-3577. With so many options to choose from, we know you'll find the perfect listening device for your needs.