Headphones & Earphones

Buying headphones / earphones

If you’re planning to purchase headphones or earphones, there are a few key features to keep in mind. First, consider the type of audio you want to listen to. If you're a fan of bass-heavy music, look for headphones or earphones that offer good low-end frequency response. Over the ear headphones generally do a better job with reproducing loud bass notes than in-ear products. Other benefits over earphones include superior comfort and better battery life. On the flipside, they’re bulkier and take up more room.

Fit & sensitivity

Earphones or earbuds as they are often called fit snugly inside the ear and are both immersive and good at eliminating background noise. Most smartphones and mp3 players ship with earphones as standard. If you prefer to listen to music at lower volumes, pay attention to the sensitivity rating of the headphones or earphones - a higher sensitivity rating means they'll be able to reproduce sound at lower volumes without distortion. Noise cancelling models feature built-in microphones that reverse external sound, in effect cancelling them out.

Usage scenarios

Think about how you'll be using your headphones or earphones. If you want something for use in the office or at home, wired options are generally a better choice since they tend to offer better sound quality. If you're looking for something to use while working out or travelling, however, wireless bluetooth models are worth considering since they're more convenient and easier to use. Some headphones come with built-in microphones allowing you to use them to take phone calls or for audio meetings on Skype or Facetime for example. If you’re planning to listen to music outdoors, during exercise or while playing sports, look for waterproof models that can cope with rain and sweat.