Headphones

Headphones comparison chart for 2024

Headphones explained

Headphones can be connected to your stereo, computer, TV, smartphone – or anything with a headphone socket on. Just make sure the connection is the right size (there are two main sizes - most headphones come with an adapter so they can fit both).

Once connected, high-end headphones offer a clarity and quality of sound that’s unmatched by all but the most expensive speaker systems. Even mid-range headphones can produce sounds of far higher quality than similarly priced speakers.

In short, if you’re thinking of buying new speakers - say for your computer - you may get far more for your money if you opt for headphones instead.

Some headphones also have noise-canceling built in. This cancels out background noise, so you can listen without interruptions. They’re fantastic if you regularly listen in busy places, or on trains and planes. However, they do require batteries, tend to be bulkier, and may not offer the very best sound quality in quieter situations.

Types of headphones

There are two main types of headphones. Open-backed headphones allow more sound from around you in. As a result, more of what you’re listening to will leak out too. Open-backed models tend to offer a wide, airy sound.

Closed-back headphones are more effective at blocking out external noise, but can sound more closed in. Both types have advantages, and which you prefer is a very personal choice. What’s more, some headphones perform better with certain types of music. If you listen to jazz and classical a lot, your ideal headphones might be totally different to those of a heavy metal fan.

If you plan to wear your headphones for extended periods, look for a comfortable pair. You’ll want ear pads that fit round your ears rather than sitting on top of them, and ‘phones that are light enough to not give you a headache.

What to look for in headphones

Sound quality

This is the most important feature to look for when buying headphones. They should be able to produce high quality sound for a rang of different music.

Comfort

There is no point having great sound quality if you can't stand wearing your headphones. Headphones are larger and heavier than earphones, but they do tend be more comfortable because unlike earphones, they do not site in the ear.

If your planning on listen to must on the move - sport for example you may want to consider earphones rather than headphones because they are much lighter.

Materials

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Noise reduction

If your planning on using your headphones in a noisy environment, then you should consider choosing headphones that include noise cancellation. Headphones with noise cancellation do need power.

Accessories

There are some other features that you many want to consider. Headphones can also come wireless. We expect so see more wireless headphones appear on the market.