Your choice of listening devices spans many factors: sound quality, usability, design, and built-in features.
But before we dive into the main course, let’s first start by differentiating these often-interchanged terms used by, let’s admit, a lot of us.
What you use to connect your phone or laptop for audio listening is called headphones. It’s an umbrella term, to say. Now, there are different types of headphones.
Earbuds are those that rest in your outer ear and do not enter your ear canal. It has a ‘flat’ surface.
In-ear headphones or IEM (In-ear monitors), on the other hand, go inside your ear canal and often come with rubber ear tips.
Now, if it covers your entire ear and has a bridge-like curve on top of your head, that’s called over-ear headphones.
You might be asking, “So what are earphones then?”. And here’s the simple answer: earphones is a more general term that can refer to either earbuds or in-ear monitors.
Conversely, it doesn’t matter if it’s wired, wireless, or Bluetooth. These terms essentially boil down to how it’s fitted and worn, not to how it’s connected to your device.
Get to know each headphone
Before you choose which is best for you, it is helpful to break down the features of earbuds, in-ear earphones, and over-ear headphones to understand their distinct characteristics.
Earbuds
Fit and Design:
Earbuds fit in the outer ear and are not inserted deeply into the ear canal. But it can vary in designs and exteriors.
However, since it resides at the outer ear, it can be less secure and may potentially fall out with excessive movements.
Sound Quality:
The bigger the driver, the better the sound quality. This is why sound quality can vary widely. Its open design also allows for awareness of surrounding sounds. Generally, it offers minimal noise cancellation and lacks deep bass.
Portability:
Earbuds are small and lightweight, making them easy to carry in pockets or small bags. Wireless and Bluetooth ones have charging cases, while wired earbuds can be stored in a pouch or inside an organizer.
Comfort:
Others find earbuds comfortable, while others may experience discomfort. For short periods, you won’t feel that you are wearing earbuds. But for longer periods, and if you lie on either side of the ear, you may feel a bit of discomfort.
Features:
Brands today, like Beats, Defunc, and JBL, sell wireless and Bluetooth earbuds which may include features like touch controls for volume, pause-and-play, and next. Some have voice assistant integration and are water-resistant
In-ear Monitors
Fit and Design:
In-ear monitors are designed to be inserted into the ear canal, creating a seal. It normally comes with ear tips of various sizes for a customized fit. Plenty of colors and styles are available, so you can also explore according to your preference.
Sound Quality:
Since in-ear headphones have a canal-fitting design, they offer better sound quality than basic earbuds, with improved bass response and clarity. It reduces external noise due to its canal seal, and some models have active noise cancellation
Portability:
Like earbuds, in-ears are highly portable too, despite being larger. Storage cases are good to carry it with, adding protection.
Comfort:
In-ear monitors are comfortable for extended use when fitted correctly. The ear canal fit provides security and is suitable for outdoor activities like running, sports, working out, among others.
Features:
It can either be wired or wireless. Other wireless in-ears are connected via internal memory, infrared, or radio waves, while others can be connected via Bluetooth.
Over-ear Headphones
Fit and Design:
Over-ear headphones have ear cups that sit over or around the ears and a headband that rests on the head, with different sizes available. Open-back headphones provide ventilation for noise to enter, while closed-back headphones are completely sealed.
Some headphones are rotatable, have an adjustable headband, and have either a matte or a glossy finish primarily.
Sound Quality:
Generally, over-ear headphones offer the best sound quality. Precisely because of its larger driver capacity and powerful soundstage, it produces excellent bass response and clarity. It can also include active noise cancellation.
Portability:
While it has better sound quality, it is also bulky. Hence, it is less portable than earbuds or earphones. However, foldable models exist and may still fit your preference.
Comfort:
Over-ear headphones are often very comfortable for extended listening. But it can cause discomfort after prolonged use. You may also feel additional weight on your head, although relatively light.
Features:
Over-ear headphones come in both wired and wireless types with a wide range of features, including noise cancellation, surround sound, and high-fidelity audio. It’s best used for professional audio work, gaming, and immersive listening.
Which one is for you?
If you value maximum portability and sleeker design, earbuds are a good choice. For casual listening while still being aware of your surroundings and reducing earwax build-up, this is perfect for you.
For better sound quality, in-ear monitors are ideal. Plus, it offers noise isolation, too, and a secure fit you can customize for your liking.
If you’re after the best sound quality, wide design options, and noise cancellation, opt for over-ear headphones. You may prefer this if you do not mind having a bulkier audio accessory.
But hey, don’t fret. The Loop PH’s Lazada and Shopee stores can help you decide which type of headphones suits you best. Check it out now and steal some good deals.
