Which earphones to buy? What to look for when choosing them?

Headphones are one of those music accessories that allow you to listen to your favorite sounds anywhere and anytime – on a walk, while traveling, riding a bike or practicing sports or in the privacy of your home. It is what allows you to cut yourself off from the surrounding world and completely surrender to the sounds that are generated by the membranes.

But that is not all. In addition, headphones provide some privacy, while allowing you to watch movies, play games or listen to music without disturbing those around you. That is why they are so versatile and functional. However, it is not easy to choose – especially since there are many models available on the market. What to look for when buying headphones? Here are some important issues.

Wired or wireless?

One of the primary dilemmas facing someone looking to buy in-ear headphones is whether the headphones should be wired or wireless. The first ones are characterized by good and uninterrupted sound, which is devoid of any interference. Therefore this type of headphones is perfect for home – for example, to watch TV or play computer games. Its biggest drawback is the cable itself, which tends to get tangled and is often too short. Therefore, an alternative to wired headsets are wireless ones, which are light and compact, as well as mobile and extremely convenient to use. And although they may have a slightly lower sound quality than wired headphones, they are still very popular. Speaking of wireless headphones, we should also mention that this type of device can go flat (and usually when you least expect it).

Open or closed?

Another important consideration when choosing headphones is their design. In this case, the two most popular models are open or closed headphones. Open headphones are models have numerous openings in the form of mesh. Such headphones not only provide good ventilation, but also the possibility of obtaining a very realistic sound. The latter is due to the fact that headphones do not completely isolate ambient noise. And vice versa – people in close proximity can hear the sound coming from the headphones. Therefore, open headphones are fine for home use, but may not be comfortable when used in noisy places. Closed headphones provide excellent noise isolation from the outside world. This feature allows you to isolate yourself from the surroundings and completely devote yourself to listening to your favorite sounds. But what if one person doesn’t like any of the options? As in the case of wired and wireless headphones, also here manufacturers provided an intermediate option. These are so-called semi-open headphones, which are a compromise between good air circulation and isolation from the environment. This type of headphones is the most versatile.

Other important features of headphones that you need to pay attention to when buying them are parameters and purpose. Frequency, impedance, dynamics, active noise cancellation, microphone or foldable design – all of these should not be overlooked when choosing a particular model. In addition, you need to pay attention to their intended use. On the one hand, when playing sports or other games, it will be easier for your child to move around without a tangled cable. Fortunately, the market for this type of accessories is so diverse that with the choice of a specific model should not be any problem.

How to choose headphones for your child?

Choosing headphones for your child is another matter. Nowadays the streets are full of younger and older children using this kind of gadgets. They usually plug them into their smartphone or tablet and listen to their favorite songs, podcasts or simply watch movies on their way to school. Many parents are probably asking themselves if it is safe? Indeed, the hearing organ in children is extremely sensitive. In addition, they are exposed to increased noise every day. Anyone who remembers school breaks should know exactly what volume they are talking about. In addition, for younger children, there are noisy toys. This applies to all kinds of figurines and mascots that emit loud sounds, music or „sing” songs. Fortunately, manufacturers of headphones for children have anticipated the problem of hearing health and introduced a limiter, limiting their volume to 85 dB. Also, for younger children earbuds are better than over-ear headphones. They put less strain on the hearing and are easier to keep clean and put on the ears. They come in a myriad of colors, game and movie themes, so there’s something for everyone. Whether headphones should be wired or wireless remains a contentious issue. On the one hand, during sports or other games, it will be easier for your child to move around without a tangled cable. On the other hand, they are much easier to lose and you should remember about charging them. Therefore the decision should mainly depend on the age of the child.