Over-Ear vs. On-Ear Headphones: Which one should you choose?
Calling all audiophiles! If you're in the market for a new pair of headphones, you might be wondering which one to choose. While there are a lot of different styles and brands out there, two of the most popular types of headphones are over-ear and on-ear.
But what's the difference between the two? And which one is better for your needs? Read on to find out.
Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones are designed to completely cover your ears, creating a seal around them to reduce outside noise. They come in two types: open-back and closed-back.
Open-back Over-Ear Headphones
Open-back over-ear headphones have vents or grills in the cup that allow air and sound to pass through. This venting system makes the sound quality better and more natural-sounding but allows ambient noise to enter.
Closed-back Over-Ear Headphones
Closed-back over-ear headphones feature cups that completely seal around the ears, blocking outside noise from invading your listening experience. This makes them ideal for noisy environments, as they allow you to hear your music without distraction.
Some popular models of over-ear headphones include:
- Sennheiser HD 660 S
- Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
- Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro
- Sony WH-1000XM4
Pros of Over-Ear Headphones
- Better sound quality since there are larger drivers, usually around 30-50mm.
- Comfortable to wear, even for extended periods of time, since no pressure is applied on the ears.
- Generally, have better noise isolation than on-ear headphones due to their over-the-ear design.
- Larger variety of models available, though they can come at a higher price.
Cons of Over-Ear Headphones
- Not portable or compact.
- Can become hot or uncomfortable during long listening sessions, especially in hotter climates.
- More expensive than on-ear headphones of the same quality
On-Ear Headphones
On-ear headphones sit on top of the ear and don't completely enclose them, leaving the rest exposed to the outside environment. Similar to the over-ear type, they come in two types: open-back and closed-back.
Open-back On-Ear Headphones
Open-back on-ear headphones provide a natural sound that allows ambient sound to pass through. They are best suited for quiet environments, such as your home or a low-volume office.
Closed-back On-Ear Headphones
Closed-back on-ear headphones create a seal around your ears, provide a better noise isolation, and minimize the exterior noise infiltrating your listening experience. They are ideal for loud environments since they prevent sound leakage.
Some popular models of on-ear headphones include:
- Grado SR80e
- Jabra Move Style Edition
- Bose On-Ear Wireless
- Koss Porta Pro
Pros of On-Ear Headphones
- Portable and lightweight
- More breathable material and less heat from structural design, making them better suited for warmer climates
- Usually cheaper than over-ear headphones of equivalent quality
- Better for physical activities, such as running or exercising
Cons of On-Ear Headphones
- Less noise isolation.
- Can cause discomfort or pain during long listening sessions due to the pressure they apply to ears.
- Smaller drivers, usually around 20-40mm, which result in a sound that is weaker than on-ear headphones
Conclusion
When it comes down to it, the choice of headphones comes down to personal preference and usage. If you are looking for a headphone with superior noise isolation and comfort for prolonged listening, consider over-ear headphones. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight and compact headphone designed for portability, choose an on-ear headphone.
No matter what option you choose, make sure to invest in a high-quality headphone from a reputable brand to ensure a worthy investment.