Headphones

Headphones are a pair of small loudspeakers that are worn on or in the ears to listen to audio. They convert electrical signals into sound and can provide stereo separation, personal listening, and offline privacy. They are used for music, gaming, telecommunication, broadcasting, and professional monitoring.

Headphones are commonly categorized by design as over-ear (circumaural), on-ear (supra-aural), and in-ear (earbuds or canal phones). Over-ear models surround the ear with cushions; on-ear rest on the outer ear; in-ear devices fit inside the ear canal.

Acoustic design may be open-back, closed-back, or a hybrid. Open-back headphones have vents or perforated cups for a more natural, spacious sound but offer less isolation. Closed-back designs seal the ear and reduce sound leakage, often improving bass response and isolation. Some headphones include active noise cancellation, which uses external microphones and electronic processing to reduce ambient noise; passive isolation depends on the physical seal.

Most headphones are wired, using 3.5 mm or 1/4 inch plugs, but many are wireless via Bluetooth. Wireless models may support codecs such as SBC, AAC, aptX, or LDAC, affecting sound quality and latency. Hardware varies by driver technology, commonly dynamic drivers, with alternatives such as planar-magnetic and electrostatic designs in higher-end models. Impedance and sensitivity influence compatibility with devices and required volume.

Buying considerations include fit and comfort, sound signature, use case (studio monitoring, casual listening, travel, gaming), durability, and price. For professional work, headphones are often calibrated for flat frequency response and low distortion. Proper care includes keeping drivers clean and avoiding moisture.