Earphones, earbuds, headphones- all these have become essential accessories for everyday listening experience. From commuting to working out to winding down at home, choosing the best audio gear can be a game-changer. But with numerous options available in the market with a sea of features, finding the perfect pair can be tricky. Hence, this guide is here to help you cut through the noise and select the best headphones and earphones that fit your lifestyle.
Be wise money-wise:
A starting point to filter numerous options would be zeroing in on the budget. Once you have a range in mind, it becomes easier to spot the perfect audio companion of your choice. The earphones/earbuds and headphones available in the market today vary in range. Ones with low quality are available at as low as below 100 bucks while high-quality professional grade ones are in the range of 5-10k. Your affordability can help you choose the brand and product accordingly.
Connections matter:
Earphones are available in both the wired and wireless category. These two categories further have sub-categories with differences in their design. On-ear, in-ear, open-back, and over-ear are a few types of design.
Decide if you would opt for old-school wired earphones or headphones for low latency and high-quality audio output. You may choose wireless neckbands or truly wireless earphones which are also named earbuds for greater comfort and portability. The same logic applies to headphones as well. Different designs of headphones are available with pads for comfort.
Hear the difference:
Investing in your earphones, earbuds or headphones has to offer good sound quality. If you are the one who always is plugged into music and on the go, earbuds or wireless headphones could be a better choice. Wired earphones or headphones offer better sound quality with less delay. They also provide a deeper bass, audio clarity, and richer experience than wireless ones due to their design. Choose an option that matches your everyday usage and lifestyle. If comfort and convenience are a priority, earbuds are a great option. If sound quality takes precedence, then wired headphones are worth your investment.
The perfect pair: Comfort and fit:
If you ask us, comfort is key for long listening sessions. So, pay attention to the design and the weight of the earbuds, headphones, and earphones, too. There are multiple options available like in-ear, on-ear, over-ear, etc. Try out each to understand what will be unobtrusive during your calls or commute.Focus on the design of the ear tips and earcups. While in-ear may be easy to carry during travel, over-ear headphones are ideal for extended usage and provide comfort. For fitness enthusiasts, Audio Technica’s ATH-TWX9 wireless earbuds are sweat-resistant and stay intact during intense workouts. If you’re all about long listening sessions, look for headphones that come with soft padding and breathable materials.
Battery life matters:
In the wireless category, battery life is crucial. Several models offer extended playtime, letting you enjoy uninterrupted music or calls. Wireless headphones can provide longer battery life, delivering 20+ hours of listening time. True wireless earbuds offer 4-6 hours of listening, with the case offering additional charging. Additionally, look for the type of charging and time involved. The popular ones get charged in the case in 1-2 hours while there are a few which charge with a cable.
Silence the chaos:
With the distractions around, it is crucial that your earphones/earbuds or headphones provide clear sound with ANC. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and passive noise isolation block out unwanted noise but do it in different ways. If you’re a frequent traveler, opt for wireless in-ear headphones from Audio-Technica with active noise cancellation to drown out the chaos of your surroundings. For those who prefer a more natural sound or want to preserve battery life, passive noise isolation is a great option.
Essential Tips to care for your audio devices:
Be smart about charging: When it comes to wireless devices, avoid letting the battery run down completely before plugging them in. Daily charging can keep the battery in good shape.
Take care of your gear: A little upkeep goes a long way in keeping your audio devices performing their best. Wipe down headphones with a soft cloth, and use a gentle brush to clear out any earwax or dirt from earbuds and earphones.
Store them right: When you’re not using your headphones and earphones, make sure to store them safely. Avoid wrapping wired earphones very tightly, as this can lead to damage over time.
In a world that’s always on the move, having the right audio companion has become a necessity. Consider these factors and purchase headphones and earphones that suit your unique preferences. Explore, experiment, and find your perfect audio companion.