A perfect pair of audio gear can make all the difference in your listening experience whether you are on a commute or on a treadmill working out. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of each option available — truly wireless earbuds, wired headphones/earphones and neckband style earphones.
Headphones vs Earbuds vs Neckband Earphones - Factors that Determine which one to Buy
There are many factors that will determine whether you buy truly wireless earbuds, wired headphones/earphones and neckband style earphones
So, how to choose between truly wireless earbuds, wired headphones/earphones and neckband style earphones for a pleasant listening or a video/movie-viewing experience?
Which one is better? Not anyone and all of them. It is contingent upon requirement, compatibility, noise isolation, connectivity, compatibility, sound quality, durability, battery life and price point.
Let’s dive in this guide and find out by looking at key aspects and purposes to factor in while picking up the preferred headset:
Usage Requirement
24/7 on the phone? Truly Wireless Earphones would be handy for you when you are on a call, or listening to music. If you want to look cool amongst your group and are keen to have a truly wireless experience, then the truly wireless earphone should be the choice. However, they are not suitable for those looking for a truly immersive listening experience.
Headphones would be a good pick, if you enjoy casual video watching, voice recording, enjoying gaming or online streaming. However, they are bulky and can be cumbersome.
Always on the move? Neck Bands are your best bet as they render a superb amount of flexibility and convenience by not hindering your body movements. If you are working out in a gym or running outdoors, nothing beats neckbands but over time the if the wire used on the neckband style headphone is not robust, then it might break with everyday wear and tear.
Also Read: 8 Points to consider when buying Bluetooth Headphones
Check the sound quality of each device separately
Ideally, headphones and earphones should provide surround sound quality. Neck Bands are useful, well-built, pocket-friendly for workouts and render good sound quality. Bluetooth earphones use the connectivity features of your phone to render a good sound experience.
Noise isolation
Noise isolation is a parameter for gauging how well the headphones or earbuds can block outside noise. The better noise isolation you have, the less you can hear the noise outside of your headphones. Closed-back over-ear headphones offer the best passive noise isolation attributable to their design. The earpads hug around the ears creating a seal that prevents noise from leaking in.
Battery life
Neckband style earphones offer bigger batteries with a longer battery life. Most of the neckband style earphones last at least 5 hours on a single charge. Also they don’t get misplaced easily.
Truly wireless models, as they have to be compact, come with a smaller battery pale in comparison to neckbands, and only offer a shorter battery life. Most of the truly wireless earphones offer a battery life of 3 hours at 80 percent volume and they come with a case that doubles as a charging cradle. They are easy to lose.
Also Read: Quick Guide to Using Headphones Safely
Price point
Earphones are the cheapest, followed by neck bands and headphones. However, price is largely based on the respective model. You can find cheap and expensive versions of neckbands, headphones and earbuds. High-quality models are usually accommodated by a high price tag.
Notable Mentions
- B&W PI 5
- B&W PI 7
- B&W PX 7
- Shure SE21 DYBK+TW2-A
- Yamaha EP-E70A (Black)
- YamahaTW-E3B (Black)
- YamahaYH-L700A (Black)
Our recommendations aside, if you would like to choose for yourself keeping in mind your personal taste, preference, and listening habits then visit our website Ooberpad that has a wide range of audio gear to help you pick the best that caters to your requirements.
