A Guide to the Different Types of Headphones
Can’t stand going on walks without music? Want to jam to your favourite podcast in a crowded place? Or maybe you just want to watch a movie without disturbing the person next to you. Whatever your reasons for wanting headphones, there’s no denying that they’re one of the most popular electronic accessories around.
Headphones come in all shapes and sizes, with a variety of features to suit different needs. Some are better suited for certain activities than others, so it’s important to choose the right pair for you. Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of headphones and how they can be used.
What Are the Different Types of Headphones?
The classification is mainly based on two features: how the headphones are worn and the technology used. Manufacturers often focus on certain features to market their products to a specific audience. In this way, it’s possible to find headphones for just about any activity or lifestyle, as long as you know what you’re looking for.
Studio Headphones
As the name suggests, studio headphones are designed for use in music studios. They’re typically over-ear models that provide excellent sound isolation, allowing users to hear even the smallest details in a recording. This is essential for music producers and engineers who need to be able to pick out individual instruments in a track.
But despite their more professional origins, many casual listeners opt to buy studio headphones online and use them for everyday listening. That’s because they tend to produce a very balanced sound, with clear highs and lows, resulting in an immersive listening experience.
The more expensive models also tend to be very comfortable, thanks to their large ear cups and padded headbands. This particular design is what’s known as ‘circumaural’, and it’s intended to provide a seal around the ear to block out external noise.
These headphones also come with a variety of features that can be useful for different activities. For example, some models come with a detachable cable, which can be handy if you want to use them with multiple devices. Or if you’re a DJ, you might want to look for headphones that swivel so you can wear them around your neck when not in use.
In any case, if you decide to buy studio headphones online, make sure to read the product description carefully. That way, you can be sure you’re getting a model that’s well-suited to your needs.
Wireless Headphones
If you don’t like the idea of having a wire running from your headphones to your phone, simply because it’s a potential source of tangles, then you might want to consider wireless models. These use Bluetooth technology to connect to your devices, so there are no cables to worry about.
The range of wireless headphones can vary depending on the model. Some only work within a few metres of the source device, while others can be used at much greater distances. This is an important consideration if you want to use them in less tech-friendly environments, like the gym, or if you want to be able to move around freely while still being able to listen to your music.
Of course, there are a few trade-offs that come with wireless headphones. For one thing, they tend to be more expensive than wired models. They also need to be charged regularly, so you’ll have to make sure they’re always topped up before you head out.
In-Ear Headphones
Also known as earbuds or earphones, these are the smallest and most portable type of headphones. They’re designed to sit snugly inside your ear, and some models even come with different-sized ear tips to ensure a comfortable fit.
The main advantage of in-ear headphones is their size. Because they’re so small, they can be easily slipped into a pocket or bag, making them ideal for use on the go. They’re also very light, so you’ll barely even notice you’re wearing them.
Despite their small size, in-ear headphones can still pack a punch when it comes to sound quality. Many models use noise-cancelling technology to block out external noise, resulting in an immersive listening experience. And because they sit inside your ear, they can provide a very tight seal, which is perfect for blocking out noise on a plane or in the office.
Finishing Thoughts
The crucial thing to remember when buying headphones is that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The specific kind you need is based on your personal preferences, as well as how you plan to use them.
So, take the time to consider what’s important to you. Are you looking for something small and portable? Or are you more concerned with the sound quality? Once you’ve decided that, you’ll be able to narrow down your options and find the most suitable pair of headphones for your needs.
