On-Ear Headphones

On-Ear Headphones: A Middle Ground of Sound

When it comes to the world of portable audio, things can get a little tangled. The field has only gotten more complicated with the shift away from wired and towards wireless models. In previous years, earbuds, over-ear and on-ear headphones were the three basic categories to choose from. Now there are lots of ways to listen (including portable speakers). But on-ear headphones occupy a unique space in the world of audio, with a fit that sits against your ears instead of over or within them. Some of the top brands in the business make these, like JBL audio. There are unbeatable benefits to these noisemakers, and they can provide high-fidelity sound while you're out and about. Learn more about why these might be the perfect way to listen to music, podcasts and more.

Why Choose On-Ear Headphones?

On-ear headphones are the perfect middle ground. Unlike truly wireless earbuds or anything that fits directly into your ear, they're unlikely to create an uncomfortable listening experience. Instead, they're well-padded and fit directly onto your head for a comfort that's well-designed. For that reason, you'll often have an easier time hearing your music or podcast. And unlike too-cushioned over-ear models, on-ear headphones often fold up easily for simple, quick portability. That makes them perfect for anyone on the move: Students who are ready to study at the library can pop them out of their backpack and connect via Bluetooth for a quick study session, while anyone who works from home can connect to their laptop to power through their afternoon.

Their main "pro" might also be their largest "con": in general, the padded surfaces can rarely block out noise as well as in-ear or over-ear active noise cancellation does. If you're searching for models with the same level of Active Noise Cancellation you'd find in truly wireless models, you'll have to look hard. That's because of how each muff sits on your ear. The upside is you'll have much better ventilation. That being said, quality varies between different products, but on-ear headphones are truly made for those searching for comfort and portability in one device.

Narrow Down The Field

If you're still having a hard time picking out your pair, start by narrowing down the field. Wired or wireless? It matters if you'll be wearing them for hours and are more likely to have them plugged into a device rather than connected wirelessly. Then, do aesthetics matter? Many come in different colors, though classic black is always a win. Finally, comfort. Reviews are easy to look at online, but to truly know, you can come into our Glenview store and see what's on the floor and what's available to try on.

If you're still not sure which pair is the right model for your needs, you aren't far from expert help. Our team of specialists in the audio department is made for quality music, and they're ready to help you find what you're looking for. Give us a call at 800-860-3577 or explore our Learn Center's headphones buying guide to learn about all the different ways you can listen on the move.