Headphones
Whether you’re an audiophile in need of the best sound quality or you are looking for a durable, portable solution to listening to music at the gym, we at Staples have the right headphones for you. Keep reading to learn more about the differences between headphone and earbud styles and determine which one is right for you.
What Is the Difference Between Headphones and Earbuds?
Both headphones and earbuds make it easy to listen to music, tune into a podcast, catch up on tv, take a phone call and more on your electronic device. Headphones and earbuds are must have accessories for a busy lifestyle, so whichever option you choose you can’t go wrong. While the two audio accessories perform the same basic functions and the terms are often used interchangeably, there are design differences between headphones and earbuds.
Headphones
Headphones typically refer to the design involving over the ear cups, coming in both wired and wireless options. They are durable and made to last, while sacrificing some of the sleekness and subtlety of earbuds. If you’re looking to stand out and make a statement with your audio equipment, then over-ear headphones are a great choice.
Headphones and earphones are lauded for their noise cancelling features that enable you to block out any ambient noises and only focus on what you’re listening to. Along with their comfortable padded design, headphones are ideal for tasks that require long periods of focus like studying.
Earbuds
Earbud headphones typically feature an in ear design, meaning the entire speaker piece fits in the user’s ear canal. They are also available in wired and wireless models. Earbuds are much smaller than headphones, making them lightweight, comfortable and convenient. However, they are also easy to misplace, especially the wireless style. Choose earbuds if you are looking for a small and portable listening device that is great for travel and working out.
While over-the-ear headphones and earbuds have their unique differences, both have available noise canceling headphone and Bluetooth headphone options.
How Do Headphones and Earbuds Work?
Headphones and earphones are portable devices that deliver sound to your ear. For wireless headphones and earbuds, data from your audio media travels through Wi-Fi or over a Bluetooth connection to the speakers. There, small magnets vibrate the air around them, sending sound waves into your ear. This turbulent air is perceived by your brain as sound.
For wired headphones and earbuds, all you have to do is plug them into your electronic device and begin listening. However, as wireless technology becomes increasingly popular, many electronic devices are phasing out a headphone jack in their designs. If you use such devices, you may need an additional adapter or connector in order to connect your wired headphones and earbuds.
Wireless headphones and earbuds must be paired to your device before use. To do this, follow these simple steps:- Be sure your wireless headphones or earbuds are charged, turned on and in pairing mode
- Navigate to your device’s Bluetooth settings and ensure that your Bluetooth is turned on
- Select your headphones or earbuds from the list of options on your device and tap pair
If you’re having trouble connecting your headphones and earbuds to your devices, be sure to read the manual or seek out a troubleshooting guide.