Are Earbuds or Headphones Better? Choosing the Best Option for You

What are earbuds?

Earbuds are small speakers that are made to fit inside the ear. They rest in the outer ear, and may even be supported by an arm that hooks around the auricle, depending on the style. 

Types of earbuds

There are several types of earbuds, including:

• Wired: Wired earbuds are connected to a device through wires and an audio jack. 

• Wireless: Wireless earbuds connect to a device through Bluetooth. 

• Noise-canceling: Noise-canceling earbuds analyze ambient noise, and strategically emit subtle sound waves to counteract these outside sounds. 

• With mic: Some earbuds feature a built-in microphone, which can offer more versatility to an already convenient accessory. 

There are also many specific styles depending on the brand and individual product. 

What are headphones?

Headphones are speakers that go over your ears and are held in place by a headband. They typically feature ear cushions that allow the device to rest comfortably over your ears. 

Types of headphones

There are several types of headphones, including:

• Over-ear: Over-ear headphones feature larger ear pads that encapsulate your ears entirely.

• On-ear: On-ear headphones feature smaller ear pads that sit on top of your ear. 

• Noise-canceling: Noise-canceling headphones use a built-in microphone to analyze ambient noise. The headphones will then emit subtle sound waves to counteract that ambient noise.

• Wired: Wired headphones connect to a device through wires and an audio jack. 

• Wireless: Wireless headphones connect to a device through Bluetooth. 

• Closed-back: Closed-back headphones are standard and have no gaps in the outer casing. 

• Open-back: Open-back headphones feature strategic gaps in the back of the headphones, so as to allow air and sound to permeate the structure. This allows users to be more wary of their surroundings, experience a more natural soundscape, and experience less heat build-up. 

• Semi-open: Semi-open-back headphones feature small gaps that seek to offer a middle ground between closed-back and open-back headphones.

There are also many specific styles depending on the brand and individual product.

Differences between earbuds and headphones

Earbuds and headphones can offer many similar benefits, but it is important to understand how they typically differ to make an informed decision about which option may be better for you.

Size 

Earbuds are smaller and much more convenient to carry around. However, the flip side of this is that they are also easier to drop or misplace. 

Pro tip: If you lost or damaged one of your AirPod buds, you can shop for a single AirPod replacement right here on Back Market.

Price

Typically, earbuds are cheaper than headphones that are in the same tier of quality. For example, third-generation AirPod Pros typically cost around $170, while headphones of similar quality typically run between $200 and $400. Refurbished AirPods are often even more affordable. 

Battery Life

Headphones typically have a longer battery life on one charge compared to earbuds. However, many earbuds have more convenient means of recharging on the go, such as compact charging cases. 

Durability

Durability depends heavily on the materials used to produce the audio device and how well-crafted they are. For example, headphones with a metal frame will be more durable than headphones made from cheap plastic. Overall, high-quality headphones are more durable than high-quality earbuds, but this is highly dependent on the individual product and how you use them. 

Sound Quality

Headphones typically offer better sound quality than earbuds, as they feature larger drivers and more thoroughly control the soundscape surrounding your ears. 

Comfort

This is largely down to individual preference. Some listeners will find earbuds fit their ear canal nicely and snugly, others may find that they can’t get a proper fit despite trying multiple sizes and/or shapes. While earbuds are typically more convenient to use when you are out and about, headphones are often more comfortable overall, as they put less pressure on your ear canal and do not need to be nestled inside your ears. 

Safety

Both headphones and earbuds can cause damage to your hearing if they are not used responsibly. However, earbuds have a slightly higher risk of causing damage, as they direct sound directly into your ear canal, and they can cause infection from introducing bacteria into the ear canal.

Comparing earbuds and headphones by use

Perhaps the most important thing that you should consider before deciding between earbuds and headphones is what you will most often be using them for. 

Gym

Earbuds are a popular option for use in the gym, as they are compact, portable, and discreet. They also do not retain heat around your ears like headphones often do. Furthermore, they are less likely to move around in response to the motions of your body. 

Gaming

Many gamers choose headphones as their preferred audio device, as they are typically more comfortable for long-term use, feature microphones that are closer to your mouth, and offer better sound quality. Additionally, headphones are more customizable, with an array of functional and fun accessories that the user can add to them. 

Music production

People who create music, produce music, or DJ often use high-quality headphones. Headphones typically offer better sound quality and do less damage to the ears over time. Additionally, they usually remain more firmly in place when the user is staying in one place, and are less easy to lose in a crowd. 

Casual use

This will depend on what casual use looks like to you. If you like to watch movies on your computer, headphones may be the better choice. Whereas, if you like to listen to podcasts on a walk, earbuds may be the better option. 

Other options

Earbuds and headphones are not your only options. There are several other types of personal audio devices, such as:

• In-ear monitors: In-ear monitors (IEMs) allow musicians and other performers to hear their music as they are playing it on stage. 

• Neck phones: Neck phones are placed around the neck and produce sound from built-in speakers. 

• Portable speakers: There are many types of portable speakers. These may be a good option for situations where an entire group wants to listen to audio.

Once you have made your decision about what type of audio device best suits your needs, the next thing you need to decide is how to obtain a high-quality, reliable device. Often, a good choice is to buy new from a reliable brand, or to buy refurbished from a trustworthy source like Back Market.