How to choose headphones: rating of the best models of 2020 for your phone or computer

What are the best headphones for sound quality?

To determine right away, even without testing, which headphones will be the best for listening to music, you should know the basic technical characteristics. They are usually indicated on the box and can be viewed without unpacking the device.

If you plan to listen exclusively to the radio in your phone, do not bother too much a question of choice: for such purposes, inexpensive good headphones with average characteristics.

The main technical parameters for headphones, regardless of their type or purpose of use, are:

• frequency range or spectrum;
• sensitivity;
• resistance or impedance;
• power;
• distortion level.

A scrupulous study of each individual indicator is the prerogative of acoustics physicists. For a simple user who is puzzled by the question of how to choose headphones with good sound, a general idea is enough.

frequency range

A characteristic that shows the frequency spectrum of the sound reproduction range. This number can be found on the box with the new product. Most often, the manufacturer indicates standard values ​​- from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz. These are the frequencies that the human ear can hear.

The range shown is ideal, but not the average. In reality, the side noises that people encounter in everyday life, every year more and more affect the hearing, negatively affecting its upper limit.

If we talk about the practical application of this indicator, then the wider the range, the better the sound quality. But only people with perfect musical ear can hear all frequencies.

Sensitivity

An indicator that determines the loudness of sound reproduction and is expressed in relation to the very sensitivity to the power of the product (dB / mW). There is no clear standardization of this parameter, so it is very difficult to say which is the best sensitivity in dB for headphones. Values ​​above 100 decibels are considered optimal.

The braided fabric cord prevents quick wear of the cable and prolongs its service life.

The earbuds or plugs have a small diaphragm diameter and a weak magnet, which does not affect the sensitivity in the best way. But the optimal volume is achieved due to the close location of the speaker to the ear.

Resistance or impedance

Many users wonder what is the best headphone impedance. There is no definite answer here, since this parameter will depend on the type of equipment used for sound reproduction and the output power of the sound channel.

Conventionally, depending on the type of listening device, the following boundaries are set:

• up to 100 Ohm - for mobile devices;
• over 100 Ohm for portable equipment;
• over 250 ohms for recording or studio work.

Professional models with a high resistance index are not suitable for portable equipment due to the low power of the output signal.

The meaning of this indicator is that the higher the headphone impedance, the less power the input signal is required to excite the membrane, and vice versa.

Also, another pattern is characteristic of resistance: the higher the parameter, the clearer the sound will be. It turns out that low-impedance "ears" can create distortion during playback, and high-impedance models can produce insufficient volume.

Power

The choice for this indicator is carried out in accordance with a similar pattern that is used for resistance. Select models that have a power level in the same range as the device producing sound. If the extreme limits are exceeded, the probability of headphone failure is high. Typical mid-level "ears" can range from 1 to 5000 mW.

The L-shaped plug is more convenient for use with smartphones, and for a computer or TV, it is better to choose models with a direct connection. For pc it will be easier to use wireless headphones for pc.

Distortion level

Sound reproduction is subject to insignificant distortion. This indicator is expressed as a percentage. There is a simple rule of thumb to keep in mind when choosing the best on-ear headphones or even earbuds: the lower the distortion value, the better.

This parameter is influenced by several factors, in particular - the weight of the headphones. It should be borne in mind that ordinary earbuds can weigh up to 30 g, overhead - already 100 g, and studio for monitors - up to 300 g.

Connection method

Another indicator that does not significantly affect the quality of the reproduced sound, but relates to the conditions for convenient use of the product, is the connection method. What are the headphones for this characteristic:

• wired;
• wireless

The first type is connected to the source by means of a wire, which can have a different cross-section and outer coating. Wireless headphones with a radio signal are only suitable for home use due to the oversized transmitter. The best over-ear headphones have fabric-braided wires to prevent damage. Inexpensive models for mobile phones or small appliances can be equipped with a tangle-free flat cord.

Which headphones are best for a phone or computer by the type of performance

There are several types of headphones for a phone or computer, according to their design features. For a simple user, this parameter is the most important. There are four categories in total:

• liners;
• vacuum;
• waybills;
• monitor.

The earbuds are the most budget-friendly option that does not shine in terms of sound.

Best headphones: in-ear

Another name for this type is in-ear headphones. This is the simplest and cheapest type, which is why all mobile phones are equipped with such products. For the first time this standard was developed back in 1990 by Etymotic Research, but the device received wide practical application much later.

Modern earbuds are most often combined with a headset, since they are mainly used with mobile phones. The main advantage of this type is the price, but the sound quality and the loose fit of the membrane to the ear are considered a significant disadvantage.

One of the best models in this class are inexpensive, but fairly high-quality headphones from a well-known brand - Sennheiser MX 170. The cost of the device is 440 rubles, while they have an attractive design, have replaceable ear pads, and a convenient L-shaped plug.

Sennheiser MX 170

Best headphones: vacuum earplugs

The next in level behind the earbuds are the headphones, which are distinguished by the presence of an elongated nozzle. This allows the device to be deeply seated in the auricle, resulting in improved sealing and sound concentration by reducing membrane vibration amplitude and sound distortion.

As a rule, all manufacturers equip their vacuum headphones with three additional attachments so that the product fits perfectly in either ear.

These are the best headphones for a smartphone due to their compactness and a sufficiently high quality of the outputted sound.

For owners of vacuum plugs, it is important to be careful and attentive when outdoors, since the complete immersion of the device in the auricle isolates from external noise.

The top vacuum headphones are headed by the professional model, which is even used by musicians instead of monitor headphones. This is the Westone UM PRO 50 model, perfect in all technical characteristics. The headphones have a built-in crossover, have a sensitivity of 115 dB, an impedance of 45 ohms. When listening, the most accurate sound transmission is ensured. But such technical parameters make it impossible to use this model with smartphones: they will not allow its full potential to be revealed. The main disadvantage can be considered the price, which is more than 50,000 rubles.

Westone UM PRO50

On-ear headphones with good sound for your phone

The name of this type is the definition of how they are attached to the head. They have a bow that holds the bowls together. Otherwise, such models are called Over-the-ear, since they are capable of covering the auricle with ear pads.

In terms of sound quality, overhead "ears" are one step higher than vacuum or earbuds, since they provide more realistic reproduction of low frequencies and clarity of mids due to a larger diaphragm and power magnet.

Overhead models provide improved sound due to the larger diaphragm diameter, but do not guarantee high-quality noise isolation.

The disadvantage is the reduced sound insulation, since the bowl does not completely cover the ear, but only superimposes on it.

It is because of the design features that overhead models must be used with a powerful signal source to ensure acceptable loudness and no distortion.

One of the best models according to users is the Meizu HD50 headphones. A model of a well-known Chinese brand, in which, according to the manufacturer, several innovations are used at once, in particular, a unique membrane. One of the drawbacks is the sagging of the midrange, which is especially noticeable when playing strings or brass parts. On the positive side, sound insulation, high build quality and materials can be noted. The cost is 3,500 rubles.

Meizu HD50

Best Headphones for Music - Full Size Type

Over-ear or monitor headphones are the best technical device for listening to music. They can be used in tandem with a smartphone, but due to their rather large size, they create certain inconveniences.

A distinctive feature is the presence of a large bowl with soft ear cushions that completely cover auricle, which ensures the creation of high-quality sound insulation and additional sound space.

Models produced in the premium segment differ from budgetary ones in terms of design convenience, low weight and a long cord.

The monitor subspecies of full-size headphones are used in professional activities. Their distinctive feature is the presence of a wide sound range and balanced sound with a careful study of the entire frequency spectrum.

The Sony MDR-7506 tops the list of full-size home headphones. This is an advanced device from a well-known brand Sony, which is distinguished by high quality materials and workmanship, low weight, the presence of a folding bow, obtaining complete sound insulation and excellent detailing. The technical characteristics of the model are as follows: impedance - 63 ohms, sensitivity - 106 dB. The cost is 6,500 rubles.

MDR-7506

What to buy headphones for the purpose of use

You can choose headphones according to the purpose of their use. For example, if you plan to listen to radio or audiobooks, then it makes no sense to shell out tens of thousands for high-quality Hartmann, but you can just buy budget earbuds. If you plan to make music at a professional level, then you cannot do without a monitor type.

How to choose headphones for your phone

The most important parameter for using headphones with a smartphone is their compactness and lightness. You should also consider where the "ears" will be used most often.

With frequent flights, you can buy full-size or overhead "ears", because in this case, comfort is important, not compactness.

If they are required while moving around the city, then it is best to choose earbuds or inexpensive overhead models. If you plan to listen to music during long flights or journeys, then it is better to opt for full-size copies.

Another parameter is the presence or absence of a wire. How to choose wireless earphone for phoneif there is a need to get maximum comfort when using them?

First of all, it should be noted that the wireless transmission technology must be carried out using the Bluetooth protocol. Headphones that operate on a radio signal are only suitable for home use, since the transmitter providing the signal is bulky and simply impossible to carry with you.

The second parameter is the Bluetooth version. The last one available on the market is Bluetooth 5.0. But it is important to remember that for full use, both the headphones and the smartphone must support the protocol.

When deciding to buy wireless headphones, consider the protocol version, battery life and weight.

The next important parameter is battery life. This indicator is indicated in the technical documentation for the headphones. It will be justified to choose a model that is equipped with the ability to connect a cord, which will make it possible to use the device with dead batteries.

One of the best wireless models in the budget segment is the JBL T110BT. Weight headsets is only 16 grams. Quite decent sound insulation is provided due to vacuum liners. There is support for the A2DP codec. Autonomy is sufficient for a full day of active use. Also, the headphones demonstrate a large signal reception radius. The only drawback can be considered the appearance of overload at extreme volumes. The cost of the model is 1,800 rubles.

JBL T110BT

Best gaming headsets

The main difference between high-quality headphones for gamers is the presence of a microphone that provides voice communication during a joint game.

Also among the distinctive features of these models can be noted increased sound insulation and the creation of a surround sound effect for full immersion in the gameplay. Only expensive models can boast of such characteristics. The cheaper ones come with a single speaker for a flat sound and a limited frequency range.

One of the best gaming headphones is the SteelSeries Siberia 650 from the Danish brand. These are elite gaming "ears" featuring recessed ear cushions that provide perfect sound isolation. All necessary controls are located on the cups. The retractable microphone is equipped with a luminous ring to indicate its operation. You can create game profiles depending on the specifics of your situation. The connection is made through the sound card of the computer. The cost of the model is 14,990 rubles.

SteelSeries Siberia 650

Coolest headphones and best budget options

There are a wide variety of headphones on the market from well-known and unnamed manufacturers. The cost also varies greatly. You can find unknown models for 100 rubles, or you can buy branded "ears" for tens of thousands. The rating includes all types with the coolest and best inexpensive headphones.

Sony STH32

The model, which belongs to the budget segment, but, according to the reviews of real users, is almost ideal for listening to music. These are earbuds, not vacuum, but deep enough to sink into the auricle. A distinctive feature is the presence of deep and rich bass. There is a microphone on the cord, so the "ears" can be used as a headset. Additional options include moisture protection. The cost of the device is 1,290 rubles.

Sony earbuds

Sennheiser PMX 684i

The best and most expensive earbuds are headphones from a trendsetter in this direction. This model is aimed at people with an active life and involved in sports. For better retention on the head, there is a wraparound bow. The headset gives out a record level of sensitivity for this type - 117 dB. There is protection against moisture. The cost is 3 490 rubles.

Xiaomi Hybrid Dual Drivers

A model that is one of the best vacuum headphones in the budget category. The cost is 1,700 rubles. For this money, the buyer gets a hybrid device that not only handles high and mid frequencies well, but also generates deep bass.

Metal capsules give the device an attractive look. Kevlar braided cable available. The disadvantages include a symmetrical cable, low noise isolation and a straight plug.

Xiaomi Hybrid Dual Drivers

Astell & Kern Roxanne II

These are the coolest vacuum headphones, and they are offered at a price of 89,000 rubles. The device has 12 reinforcing emitters in each speaker, a physical bass regulator. Each earphone can be detached from the wire. This is a deluxe version, involving the manufacture of "ears" by individual order with the removal of an impression from the auricle. The sound quality is excellent, but the model gravitates more towards light music. The set includes a carrying case, a device for cleaning the sound guides and a second cable.

Astell & Kern Roxanne II

The choice of headphones is a difficult but interesting process, as there is a wide variety of models on the market. To get high-quality sound, it is not always necessary to purchase professional headphones, but for true music lovers, careful selection according to all criteria will be a prerequisite for the purchase. You can find out again how to choose headphones from the presented video.

Read also:

How to choose wireless headphones for TV: specifications, models, prices

A detailed review of Apple wireless headphones (AirPods), the principle of operation and performance characteristics

A chance for a second life, or How to fix headphones for a phone and a computer without repair experience

Instructions for music lovers: how to properly connect headphones to a computer

How to clean different types of headphones and what not to do when doing these jobs

Private communication without borders: how to choose and connect headphones with a microphone for your computer