Bone conduction headphones have been gaining popularity as a specialized type of wireless earphone, with a history rooted in the hearing aid sector. Unlike conventional headphones and earbuds, bone-conduction headphones do not make the eardrum vibrate. Instead, they sit directly on the listener’s cheekbones and use bone conduction vibrations to transmit information to the cochlea. This technology can be especially beneficial for people with hearing loss because the bone conduction vibration takes the place of the eardrum. However, it is important to use bone-conduction headphones properly and at a comfortable volume to avoid damaging your hearing over time.
There are many options for bone-conduction headphones available in the market. One of the best on-ear options is the AfterShokz Aeropex, which uses Bluetooth 5.0 technology for connectivity and has a single button for voice assistant use and music control. The H2O Audio Tri Multi-Sport is one of the more expensive options but is of great value as it works well for swimming and land-based exercises, with a built-in MP3 player with 8GB of audio storage. The Youthwhisper bone conduction headphones are the best budget option in this segment, featuring Bluetooth 5.0 and a stable connection with an excellent range of 29ft during tests.
How does bone conduction technology work?
Bone conduction technology is a method of sound transmission that delivers audio through the bones in the skull rather than through the air. This technology has been used for many years in medical settings, such as hearing aids for those with hearing loss, and more recently has been incorporated into consumer headphones.
Let’s Elaborate More About Headphones
There are many different types of headphones available on the market today, each with its own set of features and benefits. Here are some of the most common types:
- Over-Ear Headphones: These headphones have large ear cups that sit over the entire ear, providing excellent sound quality and noise isolation.
- On-Ear Headphones: Similar to over-ear headphones, but with smaller ear cups that sit on the ear rather than around it.
- In-Ear Headphones: These headphones are small and sit inside the ear canal, providing good sound quality while still allowing the wearer to hear ambient noise.
- Wireless Headphones: These headphones connect to devices via Bluetooth, allowing for a cord-free listening experience.
- Noise-canceling Headphones: These headphones use technology to actively cancel out ambient noise, making them a good choice for use in noisy environments like airplanes and trains.
- Sports Headphones: These headphones are designed specifically for use during physical activity, with features like sweat resistance and secure fit.
- Bone Conduction Headphones: As described above, bone conduction headphones transmit sound through the bones of the skull, allowing for safe outdoor use while still being able to hear ambient noise.
Top Headphones in the Market
1. Aftershokz Aeropex
On-ear bone conduction headphones with a cozy open-ear style are the AfterShokz Aeropex. They are compact and do not have the in-ear buds that many other headphones have. They use Bluetooth 5.0 technology for connectivity, and there is a single button for both voice assistant use and music control.
2. H2o Audio Tri Multi-Sport
The H2O Audio Tri Multi-Sport bone conduction headphones are among the more expensive options on our list, but given their superior feature set, they represent the best overall value. They work best for swimming and land-based exercises and contain a built-in MP3 player with 8GB of audio storage, so you can avoid relying on Bluetooth when you’re in the water.
However, you still have Bluetooth connectivity while you’re not in the water, so you can stream whatever music or podcast you desire.
3. Youthwhisper Bone Conduction Headphones
There seems to be a sea of generic low-quality bone-conduction headphones on the market. We do advise you to purchase a Shokz model if you have the available funds; however, if you don’t want to spend too much money, then the Youthwhisper is the best budget headphone in this segment.
Despite being cheaper, they don’t honestly sacrifice much on technology. They have Bluetooth 5.0, and during our tests, we got an excellent range of 29ft with a stable connection with our iPhone 13 Pro.
4. Acreo Openbuds
Feature-wise they are top-notch. Bluetooth 5.2 (the most up-to-date Bluetooth on our list), high-level IPX7 waterproofing. There is even a low latency mode to ensure video audio syncs with what you see on screen.
The sound quality is excellent, but they lack some bass against a traditional earbud. Finally, something we haven’t seen on this list but something that is most welcome is the 24-hour warranty the company offers. Peace of mind that you can get a replacement if anything ever goes wrong.
5. Jbl Endurance Peak 3
JBL has upgraded its ear-hook style sport earbuds for 2023. Available in black or white, the Endurance Peak 3 buds offer better battery life (up to 10 hours with four extra charges in their case) improved voice-calling performance, and an IP68 rating that makes them fully water- and dust-proof.
They also have an Ambient Aware transparency mode and Talk Thru mode that can automatically lower your music’s volume level and open up the buds to the outside world. That means you can have a conversation with someone without removing the buds from your ears.
6. Vidonn F1 Titanium
Just because we’ve mostly listed Shokz models doesn’t mean that brand is the only option. Vidonn is a Chinese company that’s been in business since 2013, and its F1 Titanium ($54) makes the list as one of the best bone-conduction headphones available today.
The F1 headphones are on par with the durability and comfort level of the Shokz OpenMoves for all active sports. Sound quality, however, falls just short of the Shokz line and could be improved by a higher level of bass available.
7. Wgp Open Ear Wireless Bone Conduction Headphones
Aside from the WGP logo on the left neckband arm, there’s nothing special or distinctive about these headphones. They are pretty much the same as any other generic headphone model. There may be some differences in the earpiece size but nothing interesting. It’s the same-old neckband/open-ear design.
Just like Vidonn F1 and AfterShokz wireless headphones, WGP headphones are solidly made. The frame is made of titanium and wrapped in protective silicone. The headphones are IP56 certified, which makes them great for all kinds of physical activities (except for swimming).
FAQ Section
Q1: Are bone-conduction headphones safe to use?
A: Yes, bone conduction headphones are safe to use as they do not obstruct the ear canal and allow the wearer to hear ambient noise. However, it is important to follow manufacturer guidelines and avoid using them at excessively high volumes.
Q2: Do bone conduction headphones provide good sound quality?
A: While bone conduction headphones do not provide the same level of sound quality as traditional headphones, they are a good option for outdoor activities where ambient noise is important to hear.
Q3: Can bone conduction headphones be used by people with hearing loss?
A: Yes, bone-conduction headphones can be used by people with hearing loss, and some models are specifically designed for this purpose.
Q4: How do I clean my headphones?
A: The best way to clean headphones depends on the specific model, so be sure to check the manufacturer’s guidelines. In general, using a soft cloth and mild cleaning solution is a good option.
Q5: Are wireless headphones as good as wired headphones?
A: The sound quality of wireless headphones has improved greatly in recent years, and they offer the added benefit of cord-free listening. However, some audiophiles still prefer wired headphones for their superior sound quality.