Over time, the distinction between portable and home-use headphones has become rather blurred. In our review, we tried to describe the main types of headphones. We hope this will help you make your choice. First of all, think about what you plan to use the headphones for listening to music, for home theater, for video games, and where you will use them at home or on a walk. The four basic forms of earbuds are described below, from the smallest and most portable to the largest models that are not as comfortable to carry around all the time.
In-ear or in-ear headphones
The huawei band 4 smart headphones often go free with the player and are unnecessary if the buyer prefers better sound quality of full-size models. In-ear headphones fit into the auricle, while in-ear headphones are installed directly into the ear canal. For some, they offer special clips that will prevent the earphone from falling out.
Pros : very compact and lightweight; most models have a built-in microphone and a track switch button; provide medium isolation from external noise; you can use and wear earrings, glasses, a hat; do not spoil the hairstyle.
The extended equipment of some models includes: a volume control button, different sizes of attachments made of various materials (foam rubber, rubber, silicone). If you are looking for headphones for doing sports, then take a look at our review of the best headphones for exercising.
On-ear headphones
The main difference between these headphones is that they do not wrap around the ear, but, as it were, lie on it. The assortment ranges from low-cost portable to high-performance home models. On-ear headphones can be designed to completely cover the ear. Some users prefer completely sealed models (about them a little below), as this contributes to additional noise reduction, while the sound does not interfere with others. Many models use soft pads or ear cushions. They allow the earbud to fit even closer to your ear. On-ear headphones are suitable for office use, for example. You will be able to listen to music and at the same time be aware of what is happening around.
Pros: comfortable, they have less overheating of the ears compared to full-size headphones, some models fold, which is convenient for transportation.
Extended complete set of some models includes: microphone and track control button on the wire; spare ear pads included; case; foldable design; spirally wound or straight cable.
How to choose on-ear headphones
These headphones are also called wrap-around headphones because they completely cover the auricle. Due to their imposing size and acoustic insulation, they are more considered for home use. But recently there has been a trend to wear them outside the home. The full-size Monster Beats are especially popular .
Pros: large headphones allow you to listen to music with good bass, and make the sound louder; surround sound effectively blocks external noise (the feeling is that you are at a concert), there is a fully immersive effect.
The extended complete set of some models includes: folding structure; microphone; button to control tracks and volume on the wire; replaceable pads; additional 3.5 mm jack for connecting another listener.
How to choose wireless or Bluetooth headphones
Wireless headphones are useful in apartments with thin walls that prevent you from listening to music directly through the speakers, or on a run, where a dangling cord might get in the way. Most often, music is transmitted to such models via Bluetooth. This is reflected in the sound quality due to the compression of the file. To make quality suffer less, the latest models use the aptX Bluetooth codec, which slightly improves transmission accuracy.
Pros: No tangled wires the price has decreased and such models have become more affordable;
Extended equipment of some models includes: active noise cancellation device; 3.5mm port and cable for wired connection; replaceable ear pads; case.
