6 Things to Know Before Buying On-Ear Headphones

BY Jeffrey November 3, 2021

As the audio industry continues to push the boundaries of technology, headphones are becoming increasingly accessible, providing better variety and more options. That being said, headphones aren’t one size fits all. In this blog series, we’ll be exploring the pros and cons of each type, helping you decide which is best for you.

Let’s talk about on-ear headphones. These are the happy medium of the music world. While they don’t offer many standout features, on-ear headphones mix portability and quality better than their earbud and earmuff counterparts. If you’re just in the market for something solid, you can’t go wrong with a good set of on-ear headphones.

Before purchasing, be aware of the following pros and cons you might come across with on-ear headphones.

Pros: 

Good Sound

On-ear headphones offer a good balance of sound quality. They’re a step-up from earbuds, with larger and more capable components. They still can’t compete with a solid set of over-ear headphones, but they don’t need do. On-ear headphones offer a wide range of affordable options that provide a great listening experience for most shoppers. You won’t hit studio-quality sound (unless you pony up), but this style of headphones is a good choice if you want better-than-average audio.

Convenience 

On-ear headphones are clearly bigger than earbuds, but that doesn’t mean they skimp on convenience. Most models fold up, allowing for easy transport and storage. They’re lighter and less bulky than their over-ear counterparts and can still be used for a number of activities and lifestyles.

Non-Intrusive

If shoving earbuds into your ears isn’t for you, you may want to consider on-ear headphones. They rest directly on your ear, offering a decent listening experience without risking sound damage to your eardrums. Of course, cranking your volume can still have a damaging effect, but you’re less likely to see issues at normal ranges.

Cons: 

Poor Noise Isolation

This type of headphone doesn’t rest in your ear, nor does it rest over your ears. On-ear headphones sit, well, on your ears. There isn’t really a seal between you and outside noises. Interference such as talking, or even normal, daily sounds can compromise quality and prove to be a distraction while you’re listening to music and other audio.

Uncomfortable

An unfortunate downside of on-ear headphones is their tendency to pinch your ears. In order to maintain contact, pressure is applied to the sides of your head, where the speakers contact your ears. While a certain pair of headphones can fit great on one person, that same pair could prove to be a painful experience for someone else. 

Poor Durability

This con comes with a caveat: any type of headphone can suffer from poor durability. That being said, a hallmark of on-ear headphones is their tendency to break under little to no stress. This generally happens at pivot points, though it can just as frequently happen right in the middle of the headband. If you’re considering on-ear headphones, be sure to research brands to find the most reliable set.

If you’re ready for an upgrade, Progressive Leasing offers simple, flexible payment options from over 30,000 retailers. Find a store near you and discover your new headphones by visiting our website at ProgLeasing.com.