When diving into the world of headphones, one of the most common discussions you'll encounter is over ear vs on ear headphones. Both have their merits, and both have their unique characteristics, and the best choice often comes down to personal preference.
Whether you're an audiophile, a casual listener, or someone in between, understanding the differences can help you make an informed choice.
This post goes into the key differences between over-ear and on-ear headphones, ensuring you have all the information you need to pick the perfect pair for your ears. So, first, let's define each.
Over-ear headphones, sometimes referred to by the term circumaural headphones, are a type of headphones where the earcups completely enclose or 'over' the ears. They are characterized by:
On-ear headphones, also known as supra-aural headphones, are a type of headphone that sits directly on the ear without enclosing it. Here are some of their key features:
When it comes to the on ear headphones vs over ear comparison, the differences boil down to design, sound quality, comfort, portability, and battery life. Let's break down these differences:
Both over-ear and on-ear headphones can deliver high-quality sound, but the experience can be quite different. Over-ear headphones, with their larger earcups, can provide a more immersive sound experience. They often have larger drivers, which can deliver a wider range of frequencies and a more detailed sound. On the other hand, on-ear headphones, while still providing good sound quality, may not offer the same level of immersion due to their smaller size and less sound isolation.
Are over the ear headphones better for your ears? Comfort can be subjective and depends on personal preference. Over-ear headphones distribute pressure around your ears, which can be more comfortable for long listening sessions. However, they can be heavier and may cause your ears to heat up after a while. On the other hand, on-ear headphones are lighter and less likely to cause heat buildup, but the pressure exerted directly on your ears might cause discomfort over time.
In terms of portability, on-ear headphones take the lead. They are generally lighter and more compact, making them a great choice if you're always on the go. Over-ear headphones, due to their larger size, are less portable and might not be the best choice for travel or commuting.
If we're talking about wireless headphones, battery life becomes an important factor. Generally, on-ear headphones tend to have a longer battery life compared to over-ear headphones. However, this can vary depending on the specific model and features, such as active noise cancellation, which can drain the battery faster.
The price can vary greatly depending on the brand, features, and quality of the headphones. High-end models of both over-ear and on-ear headphones can be quite expensive, but there are also budget-friendly options available in the market.
In the end, the difference between over the ear and on the ear headphones comes down to your personal preferences and needs. This is because choosing between over ear vs on ear headphones is a decision that hinges on your personal preferences and lifestyle.
If you're someone who values immersive sound and doesn't mind a bit of extra bulk, over-ear headphones could be your perfect match. On the other hand, if you're always on the move and need something compact and lightweight, on-ear headphones might be the way to go.
The difference between over ear and on ear headphones isn't just about the physical design. It's also about sound quality, comfort, portability, battery life, and price. Take the time to consider what matters most to you before making a decision. And don't forget to try them on if possible – comfort is key!
When it comes to the health of your ears, both over-ear and on-ear headphones can be safe options as long as you use them responsibly. It's important to keep the volume at safe levels (experts recommend no more than 60% of maximum volume) and take regular breaks to give your ears a rest. Some people find that over-ear headphones, with their superior sound isolation, allow them to listen at lower volumes, which can be beneficial for ear health.
There are many excellent over-ear headphones on the market, but one standout is the soundcore Space NC Q45. The soundcore Space Q45 over-ear headphone offers an upgraded noise canceling system, reducing ambient noise by up to 98%. It's designed to transform any environment into a personal sound space with its adaptive noise-canceling feature. Boasting an ultra-long 50-hour playtime, it's perfect for travel or extended listening sessions. The Q45 delivers sound with exceptional detail, ensuring a rich and immersive audio experience. Plus, its secure and comfortable fit makes it a pleasure to wear for any length of time. It's a great choice if you're looking for a balance of quality and value in your over-ear headphones.
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I'm not someone who religiously checks Prime Day deals every year, but this year I was on a mission — I wanted to get new over-ear headphones to replace my (second) pair of AirPods Pros.
Since my first pair of AirPods in January 2018, I've been a loyal user. I eventually gave my first-generation pair to my mom and replaced them with the AirPods Pro in 2020, in a pandemic purchase. After they were stolen, I replaced those with another pair for $249, though I was able to use some credit-card points to bring the price down.
But after taking five international flights this year, I knew it was time for a change. My AirPods were constantly falling out of my ears no matter what I did. And as any New York City resident knows, having earbuds fall out on a plane is one thing, but it's another to drop them on the sidewalk, the subway, or even down a grate.
A pair of AirPods Pro.
Crystal Cox/Business Insider
So when Prime Day came around, I pounced. AirPods Max were too expensive for me — even with the Prime Day deal of $100 off, they retailed at around $450. As Insider wrote in its April 2021 review, even though the audio quality is excellent, the price is just too high and most people would be better off with Sony or Bose.
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As a longtime Bose speaker fan, I instead opted for the Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones in the color white smoke. With the Prime Day deal, they cost $279.
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And I love them.
With the new headphones, I don't have to worry that one false move or a shove from someone in a crowd will send an earbud flying through a train or plane, or onto the dirty sidewalk.
It's also easier to nap with my Bose headphones — they don't get shoved into my ear canal when I nod off.
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The Bose QuietComfort 45s.
Gabbi Shaw/Insider
Additionally, I've struggled with eczema-like symptoms in my ears over the last few years, and I'm intrigued to see if the change of headphones makes a difference. While it never occurred to me that there's a potential my symptoms could be allergic contact dermatitis from the rubber in my earbuds, the National Eczema Association has reported it's a possibility for some people. Apple did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.
Although I have not noticed a difference yet, I'm looking forward to seeing if my symptoms subside, since I don't have rubber earbuds directly in my ears anymore.
My new headphones also share some of the best features of the buds. To me, one of the best things about AirPods Pro is that you can switch between "transparent" and noise-canceling mode. Thankfully, the QuietComfort 45s also offer this feature, and a way better battery life.
All this means I don't see myself ever going back to the AirPods lifestyle. Even though my new over-ear headphones are much bigger than my old earbuds, I'll always make room for them in my travel bag.