These days, our headphones go with us everywhere – whether we’re travelling, working, exercising, or even sleeping. These are one of our most personal items and it’s important that we choose the right pair.
With so many options out there to choose from, Libratone shared their top tips and advice on how to pick a pair of headphones that best fit your lifestyle.
Bluetooth, wired or true wireless?
Wired headphones plug into your audio source and therefore need to be compatible with your phone, laptop, tablet etc., which means you may need an adapter. Having a wire connecting your headphones to your device can also be quite restrictive if you want to move around or exercise.
Wireless headphones don’t however require plugging in, and instead use Bluetooth, giving you freedom to move around, whether its cleaning, working out or commuting on the go.
True wireless is the latest innovation in headphones, sitting snugly in your ear without any wires or cords whatsoever.
In-ear, on-ear or over-ear?
In-ear or ‘earphones’, have buds that sit in your ear, and these are often the preferred option for those who want music purely for exercising as they won’t slip off during a workout.
With on-ear, the cups sit on your ear, whilst over-ear have larger cups to encase your ears. Many over-ears are wired (connected to your device), because they need more power due to their size and to deliver on sound quality.
What should I choose for commuting?
In-ear headphones are a good option for the morning commute. They are easy to store and won’t get knocked off your head by a fellow commuter on a packed tube. It’s also good idea to also consider extra functions like noise cancelling, helping you to listen to your morning podcast in peace.
If you are flying a lot for business, look at headphones offering active noise-cancelling (ANC), which use sound waves to cancel out external noise. Say goodbye to that background aeroplane hum without having to turn your music up to the max.
What should I choose for keeping fit?
If you are into running, fitness and the outdoors, wireless is the must-have option – no wires from your phone to your ears to put you off your stride. You also want to ensure a snug fit, and in-ears are great for this. Earphones with adjustable noise cancelling will automatically set to adjust to your surroundings, so you can run in safety and be completely aware of your surroundings when training.
If you train in the gym look at in-ears, as these won’t get hot and sweaty like on-ears or over-ears. Make sure you get headphones that are sweat and splash proof too, so you can push yourself to the limit without worrying about them getting damaged.
What should I choose if I want an all-round, everyday pair?
Try them on, and if they sound good, are comfortable on your head and look good – go for them. Have a think about where you’ll be wearing them most, and if you will find external noise a distraction, then invest in a pair that have noise-cancellation, so you can lose yourself in a good podcast, audiobook, or your favourite music.
Check out Libratone’s TRACK + wireless earphones, with active noise cancellation – making them perfect for training, travelling or commuting or Libratone’s Q ADAPT On-Ear headphones, that deliver rich sound, adjustable noise cancellation, and intuitive touch controls.
For more information on picking the right headphones for you visit https://www.libratone.com/uk/stories/which-headphones-are-right-for-you/
RELATED: Libratone Q Adapt On-Ear Wireless Headphones review