Headphones are an inseparable part of our lives. They accompany us on the way to work, during training, and even at home. Are you wondering how to choose the perfect headphones for everyday use? The multitude of models, parameters and technologies can make you dizzy. This article will walk you through this maze, helping you choose headphones that fit your needs and lifestyle.
Types of headphones – know your options
The first step in choosing the perfect headphones is to determine the type of headphones. There are three main types available on the market:
- In-ear (in-ear): Small and lightweight, perfect for use on the move. They insulate well from ambient noise, but can cause discomfort when worn for long periods of time.
- Advantages: Handiness, noise insulation, affordable price.
- Disadvantages: They can fall out of the ears, not comfortable for everyone.
- Examples of models: Sony WF-1000XM4, Apple AirPods Pro, Jabra Elite 75t.
- Over-ear headphones: They cover the entire ear for comfort and good sound quality. Ideal for home and office use.
- Advantages: High wearing comfort, better sound quality than in-ear headphones.
- Disadvantages: Less handy, they can be a nuisance on warm days.
- Examples of models: Sony WH-1000XM5, Bose QuietComfort 45, Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless.
- Over-ear headphones: Similar to the over-ear earcups, but the earcups surround the ear without pressing it. They provide the best sound quality and comfort, but they are the largest and most expensive.
- Advantages: Highest sound quality, greatest comfort.
- Disadvantages: High price, large size, bulky.
- Examples of models: Sennheiser HD 800 S, Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro, Audeze LCD-4.
Key parameters – what to pay attention to?
Choosing the type of headphones is just the beginning. Before buying, it is worth taking a closer look at their parameters:
- Frequency: Determines the range of frequencies that the headphones are able to reproduce. The wider the bandwidth, the richer and more natural the sound. The standard band is 20 Hz – 20 kHz, which is the audible range for the human ear.
- Impedance: Measures the electrical resistance of the headphones. It affects the volume and sound quality. Low-impedance headphones (up to 32 Ohm) are suitable for mobile devices, while high-impedance headphones (above 32 Ohm) are suitable for stationary equipment.
- Sensitivity: Determines the volume of the headphones at a given signal level. The higher the sensitivity, the louder the headphones.
- Noise Cancellation (ANC): Technology that cancels out background noise, so you can focus on your music. Useful in noisy places such as public transport or the office.
Wired or wireless? The dilemma of modernity
Modern headphones offer two types of connection:
- Wired: A traditional solution that ensures a stable connection and the highest sound quality.
- Advantages: No lag, no need to charge, lower price.
- Disadvantages: Limited freedom of movement, tangled cables.
- Wireless: A convenient and modern solution, ideal for an active lifestyle.
- Advantages: Freedom of movement, no tangled cables.
- Disadvantages: They require charging, there may be delays, higher price.
- Types of wireless connections: Bluetooth (the most popular), WiFi, RF.
Additional features – what else do the headphones offer?
Manufacturers are outdoing each other in adding innovative features to their headphones. Here are some of them:
- Microphone: It allows you to make phone calls and use voice assistants.
- Touch/Button Controls: It allows you to control your music and answer calls without taking out your phone.
- Waterproof: Protects the headphones from sweat and rain.
- Ambient Mode: It allows you to hear the sounds around you without removing the headphones.
Headphones and lifestyle – how to choose the perfect fit?
The choice of headphones should depend on your lifestyle and preferences:
- For running and exercising: Lightweight and waterproof in-ear headphones with good in-ear feeling.
- For travel: Noise-canceling over-ear headphones for comfort and isolation from ambient noise.
- For home and office: Over-ear or over-ear headphones with good sound quality for comfort during long hours of use.
- For players: Headphones with low latency, spatial audio and built-in microphone.
- For audiophiles: Over-ear headphones with superior sound quality, faithfully reproducing the finest nuances of music.
Budget – how much do good headphones cost?
The price of headphones ranges from several dozen to several thousand zlotys. The final cost is influenced by: type of headphones, brand, sound quality, additional features.
- In-ear headphones: from PLN 50 to PLN 1500.
- Over-ear headphones: from PLN 100 to PLN 3000.
- Over-ear headphones: from PLN 500 to PLN 10,000 and more.
Remember that the highest price does not always mean the best choice. It is worth testing several models and finding headphones that perfectly match your needs and budget.
Summary – the key to the perfect choice
Choosing the perfect headphones is an individual matter. Before buying, consider:
- What kind of headphones do you need?
- What features are most important to you?
- What’s your budget?
After answering these questions, it will be easier for you to choose a model perfectly suited to your needs. Remember that good headphones are an investment for years that will allow you to enjoy your favorite music in the best quality.
