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5 Keys to Choosing the Right Work Headphones

by Lance Jackson

Woman wears headphones as she works from home at her desk with computer

Of all the everyday technology that impacts our quality of life, particularly at work, headphones are high on the list. A great pair of headphones can make any listening experience more enjoyable. Headphones can vary in features and quality, so it’s important to understand what to look for when buying new ones. The key to choosing the best headphones depends on identifying their intended use.

Here are the most important questions to consider when choosing your next pair of headphones for work:

1. What type of headphones do you want?

Over-ear headphones cover your entire ear and are the most common design for headphones because of their extreme comfort and great sound quality. On-ear headphones rest on your ears and are smaller than over-ear headphones. In-ear headphones and earbuds rest inside your ears but are not typically popular for work environments. The type of headphones you prefer is largely a matter of personal choice.

Business woman paces while on a conference call in her home office

2. Do you want a wired or wireless design?

Wired headphones often provide a perfect, full-strength signal, however, with them you remain tethered to your device whether it’s a phone, computer, or tablet. Wireless headphones enable free movement through Bluetooth connectivity. Wireless headphones are battery powered, but if the batteries die, they can often be used by connecting a cable.

Woman working from home with earbuds in is joined by her canine colleague

3. What style of headphones do you want?

Closed-back headphones, which cover the ear completely, are totally sealed (meaning they’re designed with no holes to the outside world) to reduce ambient noise. Open-back headphones incorporate holes and/or perforations to the exterior sound. Therefore, open-back headphones do not block out external noise as well but do create a more natural, open and airy listening experience.

Woman does business in her home office with over-the-ear headphones on

4. Do you want any additional features?

If you’re selecting a set of headphones for work, it’s important to consider if you would utilize an integrated microphone. Additional features, such as active noise cancellation and foldable design for over-ear headphones, are optional considerations in the headphone-buying process.

Man works in his home office wearing foldable over-the-ear headphones

5. What specs matter most to you?

Some specs you should look for when buying new headphones:

  • Battery life
  • Cable length
  • Driver size
  • Frequency response
  • Impedance
  • Sensitivity
  • Total harmonic distortion

Look for the specs to determine the sound quality of the headphones and whether they will provide an enjoyable listening experience. The sound quality is a very important factor in selecting headphones, but it should not be the only one. It’s essential to purchase comfortable headphones too, as styles vary widely in comfort depending on their design. The shape and size of your headphones, including the ear pads, have a lot to do with the level of comfort. Flexibility to the shape of your head and ears also matters — headphones should fit tight and snug.

When you buy headphones from an authorized retailer, like us, your headphones will come with a full manufacturer’s warranty. We provide many options for high-quality headphones from trusted brands, along with expert technicians who are happy to answer any questions you might have or to help you choose the right pair. Contact us today with any questions about selecting the right headphones.