Over-Ear Headphones

When choosing headphones, first consider how you will use them

Headphones for PC or laptops

For gaming, office work, or as a versatile PC headset, we recommend over-ear headphones. They are comfortable even during extended listening sessions, and compared with similarly expensive in-ear headphones, they offer superior sound quality. For gaming or Internet video conversations, choose a headset with a microphone.

Headphones for life on the go

When travelling on the bus, train, or plane, earbuds and in-ear headphones are the most convenient, as are headphones with a folding design. In short, go for something lightweight and compact.

What else should I look for when choosing headphones?

Connections

• Wired headphones (3.5mm jack, USB) - compared with similarly expensive wireless heahphones, they offer better sounds quality but less freedom of movement.
• Wireless headsets (Bluetooth, radio frequency) - with no wires, they provide greater freedom of movement (Bluetooth headsets have a range of approx. 10 metres from the playback device; radio frequency up to 100 metres). Wireless headphones have built-in batteries and must be recharged.

Connection Type / Compatibility	Computer	Laptop	Smartphone	tablet	Mp3 player	TV
3.5mm jack
USB
Bluetooth
Radiofrequency with transmitter
Radiofrequency with broadcast station
Lightning			iPhone 5 / 5S / 5C and later	iPad 4 and later	iPod Nano 7th gen., Touch 5th gen. and later

The data in the table are indicative only. To use the headphones with a particular playback device, both devices must support the same type of connection.

Construction

• Closed - dampen ambient noise.
• Open - provide high-quality sounds (less distortion) but with some ambient noise
• Semi-closed - a compromise between open and closed headphones.

Useful functions and features

• Volume control - located on the headphones or cable.
• Folding design - for easy portability.
• Rotating ear cups - comfortably listen to music in one ear (especially useful for DJs).
• 7.1 surround sound - hear where a particular sound is coming from (especially useful for gamers).
• APTX and AAC - codecs for Bluetooth headphones that guarantee higher quality sound.
• NFC - technology used in connection with Bluetooth headsets, which accelerates and facilitates their connection with the playback device.