Earbuds are smaller than headphones and usually fit in the ear canal, while headphones cover the ears. They are used for music, podcasts, and other audio, with some offering noise cancelling features. Earbuds are also portable, and can be easily carried in a bag or pocket. In contrast, headphone can be more bulky and harder to carry around.
In recent years, earbuds have grown in popularity and there are now many good-sounding options. Some are wireless, some have built-in microphones for phone calls and voice assistants, and others come with detachable cables for listening to audio from a phone or tablet. Some are designed for workouts, and some even have a special sweatproof design for use while exercising. Some earbuds can be run with an external amplifier for better sound quality, but these tend to cost more than the earbuds themselves.
There’s a misconception that earbuds can’t produce high-quality audio, but this is not true. A great pair of earbuds with an amp can rival a set of headphones that cost several times as much. However, a cheap pair can be unsatisfactory and may damage your hearing if you listen at too high a volume for long periods of time.
For a great pair of earbuds that deliver an accurate and natural sound, look no further than the Bose QC35 II. These earbuds feature active noise cancellation that effectively eliminates most ambient sounds, while still allowing you to hear your surroundings. They are comfortable to wear and come with multiple pairs of ear tips to ensure a secure fit. They are a bit heavier than other earbuds, but their build quality is excellent and the noise isolation is very impressive.
Another great option are the MOONDROP Blessing 3 earbuds, which are in-ear monitors (IEM) that don’t have a microphone by default. They offer a neutral, balanced sound that’s ideal for gamers who want to hear clear and accurate instruments and vocals in their games. They are lighter on the bass than the TRUTHEAR x Crinacle ZERO earbuds, but their lack of an inline mic may make them less suitable for casual users.
Other considerations when selecting a pair of earbuds include their controls, whether they’re physical buttons or touch-sensitive pads. It can be difficult to operate these controls with your fingers while wearing gloves, and you might accidentally pause your music or summon a voice assistant when you meant to just adjust the volume. The Soundcore Space One earbuds, for example, have small, physical buttons that require precision to press.
Other factors that should be considered are how you plan to use the earbuds, and what you value most in them. Some people prefer the portability of earbuds, while others prioritize sound quality or extras such as wireless capability and ANC. You should also consider your budget, as some earbuds are very affordable while others can cost hundreds of dollars. By narrowing down your preferences and prioritizing features, you’ll be able to find the perfect earbuds for you.