Wireless versus wired is not the primary safety factor when it comes to headphones and earbuds. The type of headphone (over-ear vs. in-ear) and volume levels are more important for hearing safety.
It is more accurate to ask, "Are over-ear headphones safer than earbuds?"
Here's a breakdown:
-
Over-Ear Headphones (often wireless): These headphones sit around the ear, creating a seal that helps block out external noise.
- They can have passive noise isolation or active noise cancellation (ANC).
- Reference states: Over-ear headphones with effective passive noise isolation or active noise canceling are better at blocking out external noise, meaning you can enjoy your audio at lower volumes (17-Jul-2023).
-
Earbuds/In-Ear Headphones (can be wired or wireless): These fit inside the ear canal.
- They often require higher volume levels to overcome external noise.
- May cause more damage to your ear due to closeness of speaker to eardrum
Why Over-Ear Headphones Tend to Be Safer:
| Feature | Over-Ear Headphones | Earbuds/In-Ear Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Isolation | Generally better, especially with ANC or passive. | Often poorer, requiring higher volume levels. |
| Volume Levels Needed | Lower volume levels typically required. | Higher volume levels often needed to hear clearly. |
| Eardrum proximity | Further from eardrum | Closer to eardrum |
Key Takeaway:
The safety of headphones or earbuds largely depends on the volume levels used. Since over-ear headphones often provide better noise isolation, users tend to listen at lower, safer volumes. However, using any type of headphone at high volumes for extended periods can damage hearing. So, while over-ear headphones tend to be safer because they can reduce the need for high volumes, the user's listening habits are the most crucial factor. The wireless capability is not the defining factor in safety.
