How to choose good headphones for your computer or laptop

Among the variety of models and manufacturers, choosing the best headphones for your computer can be a difficult task. A few years ago, the accessory was presented with a meager assortment, but today customers are offered a truly wide choice. The model of the headset or headphones should be selected in accordance with the purposes of use and the needs of the future owner. For some, high-quality sound is important, for others, a comfortable microphone with noise cancellation is important, and for others, universal headphones are needed. Before choosing headphones for your computer, you need to decide on the basic criteria.

Types of headsets

All types of accessories can be divided into four main categories.

In-ear headphones – these headphones for a computer are compact and invisible, they have no noise insulation at all, and prolonged use has a negative impact on the hearing organs. This is a great option for a phone or MP3 player when listening to music or watching videos is not constant.
In-ear headphones are very similar to the previous type, but, thanks to their design, they hold more securely. The only advantage compared to earbuds is that they slightly isolate external noise.
On-ear headphones are accessories on a different level; they are considered universal. They can be used both indoors and outdoors. The membrane covers only part of the ear, which does not create unnecessary stress on the eardrums. Thanks to their secure fit on the head, these headphones are suitable for jogging, working or watching movies.
Monitor or full-size headphones are professional-class headphones, although there are models of medium and low quality, whose characteristics are significantly inferior to accessories of a high price category. Depending on the specific model, they come in two types: with full or partial sound insulation (or closed and open). When sound quality is a priority, the choice is the first type, but if you plan to watch movies for a long time or play games for many hours, the best solution would be a headset with holes in the case.
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It is better to limit the choice of headphones for your computer to the last two types, regardless of how often and for what purpose they will be used.

About surround sound and vibration

Surround sound technology is supported by several types of devices. This function is implemented physically or virtually. Other models can work with vibration. They usually have a built-in sound card as well as a USB connection.

Option with physical implementation. It is assumed that there is an honest speaker system with 5.1 or 7.1 figures. In this case, the user hears even from which direction the sounds are coming. In most cases, the option is not required; it will be useful during computer games. High-quality surround sound systems come with a hefty price tag. And cheap ones are sometimes enough for normal sound.
Virtual surround sound. Usually the matter is limited to only two speakers. But devices are capable of changing frequencies. And the same feeling arises as when working with 5.1 numbers. The more expensive the device, the better the function works.
Vibration. In this case, the headphones are equipped with special vibration motors. Most often it is light, but some make it quite powerful. But for most users there is no benefit from this. Either this solution quickly gets boring, or your head starts to hurt. Headphones with surround sound are most often purchased by those who use the accessory only for gaming. But it is recommended to trust only trusted brands; low quality will not work here. Many people advise avoiding vibration altogether. Regarding controls Headsets and headphones can be controlled from various elements.
Remotes. This is usually a small block located on the cable. Use it to switch tracks and change the volume. A convenient solution when it comes to universal headsets that are used in conjunction with mobile devices. But reliability decreases, since wires often break in the area where the remote controls are located. In some cases, models are equipped with built-in digital-to-analog converters. These are special adapters, from 3.5 millimeters to USB and vice versa. Such devices are becoming more universal. But it is recommended to use adapters not constantly, but periodically. Otherwise, the reliability of the connections is reduced.
Volume controls. A useful purchase, although not required specifically for computer types of headsets. The operating system itself allows you to change the indicator. The keyboard supports the same function. But this is a convenient option specifically for mobile devices. Wheel-shaped parts often wear out over time. Buttons are more convenient, although they are inferior in terms of durability.
⦁ Mute the microphone. An indispensable addition for a computer headset. After all, not everyone needs to be heard when using certain programs or functions. For example, when the owner is distracted from the game, he walks away for a while. It would be nice if there was a separate button to mute the microphone. The digital headset also provides audio.
⦁ Using additional buttons. The main thing is to look at how big the buttons are and how they are located.

Main technical parameters of headphones

We often choose headphones for a laptop or computer only by design and design features. But this is wrong - the characteristics of the device will be no less important. Modern headphones for computers have their own technical indicators, which determine the optimal area for their use. What you need to pay attention to before purchasing:

sensitivity;
impedance or resistance;
frequency range.

The sensitivity, or volume of the headphones, should correspond to the recommended 100 dB. This is dictated, first of all, from a safety point of view - the device should not damage hearing. If the stereo headset will be used “on occasion,” it is permissible to ignore the rule, but when listening to music or watching videos exceeds an hour a day, attention must be paid to this indicator.

Impedance determines the quality of signal transmission and is measured in ohms. The choice should be limited to average characteristics; the normal value varies from 40 to 150 Ohms. If the user needs studio-quality sound, then the resistance should be above 100 Ohms, the maximum limit can reach up to 600 Ohms. The minimum impedance is 30 ohms, but a value below indicates low quality.

It is important to know! Buying headphones with a high impedance rating does not guarantee high sound quality if the computer's sound card does not support such characteristics.

The frequency range in good headphones is 20 Hz - 20 kHz. This is the optimal value for sound perception.

Technical characteristics, general concepts

Main physical and technical parameters affecting sound quality and volume:

Reproducible frequency range.
Impedance (resistance).
Power.
Nonlinear distortion (degree of distortion).
Headphone sensitivity.

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What is the best headphone impedance?

, Technical characteristics of good headphones

Range

The human ear mainly perceives a frequency component in the range of 20~20000Hz. Some more, some less, depends on the anatomical features of the auricle and the sensitivity of the hearing organs. With age, the ear recedes, especially at the upper border.

On the other hand, the full spectrum of frequencies is important for people associated with music - composers, sound engineers, artists and music lovers. Such properties are typical for professional or high-quality household products. The spectrum is 5~42000Hz, which allows you to reproduce sound with the highest possible purity.

Resistance

Or impedance, an indicator of the nominal resistance at the headphone input. The full parameter consists of two components, resistive and reactive. The value is directly related to the resonant frequency.

The resistance of the headphone is interconnected with the output parameters of the signal source. That is, portable equipment (smartphone, player, tablet) is limited in terms of output voltage, but is loyal in terms of current level. Therefore, it is advisable to select low-impedance headphones.

Stationary equipment, with a more powerful signal, allows for varying the voltage value. Hence, it is preferable to use high-impedance headphones.

Power indicators

The generalized power rating of headphones is in the range of 1~5000mW. Inconsistency with the parameters of the electrical signal source - exceeding - can lead to failure of the reproducing device.

To obtain high-quality sound from a smartphone or radio player, a few milliwatts are enough. Using higher settings will quickly drain battery power. In addition, the sound will become defective in frequency, and significant signal distortion will occur. Hence, the high sensitivity of the headphones compensates for the seemingly insufficient playback power.

Powerful designs can be safely used with stationary signal sources. The built-in amplifier will provide the required level. The sound will be clear and high quality.

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Degree of distortion

The design of headphones cannot provide one hundred percent sound quality. A deviation from standard indicators of less than 0.5% is considered high-quality reproduction. An indicator of 0.5~2.0% indicates average and mediocre sound.

Sensitivity

The characteristic reflects the sound volume of the headphones. The parameter is measured in decibels (dB). The upper threshold is in the range of 100~120dB. The strength of the sound is determined by the size of the magnetic core; the larger it is, the more sensitive the headphones are.

It is clear that mini devices have small core dimensions. Hence, earbuds, tablets, and vacuum headphones have a low sensitivity threshold. The sensation of loud sound is achieved by placing the membrane close to the eardrum. Overhead and full-length designs have a larger core and a larger flexible membrane. Accordingly, they have increased power and sensitivity.

The same signal applied to different types of headphones will not be reproduced in the same way. Louder with higher sensitivity, quieter with lower threshold. In the accompanying documentation, the manufacturer usually reflects the parameter values. But there is no single standard. Therefore, seemingly identical devices at first glance sound with excellent volume from different manufacturers.

Additional criteria

In addition to the main parameters, there are others that it is recommended to know about before purchasing.

There are three types of connector for wired headphones: minijack 3.5 mm, jack 6.2 mm or usb. If necessary, you can use an adapter, for example from a 6.2 mm to 3.5 mm plug.
The percentage of sound distortion - this indicator should be as low as possible. The value is mainly prescribed by manufacturers of high-quality equipment.
Type of attachment: clip on the ear, over the head or under the hairline. The characteristic is subjective; which headphones are better to choose is up to the user to decide. Here it is also worth considering the total weight of the accessory - heavy headphones will cause discomfort during prolonged use.

It is important to know! For gamers, they produce special headphones for the computer with sound positioning, so that during the game it is clear where the movement or signal is coming from.

Headphones for gamers Strix Pro

With or without wires

Before choosing headphones for a laptop or personal computer, you need to decide on the type of connection. There are two options: wired or wireless.

The advantage of a wireless connection is mobility; the user can move freely around the house or within a room. The connection is provided by a Bluetooth module or an infrared port. The second option is less practical: such headphones transmit a signal only within the line of sight. The Bluetooth radio signal operates over a long distance, which is what makes it attractive.

Undeniable convenience will cost more, so choose this model only if the wires really create inconvenience, and sound quality is in second place.

Wireless headphones with IR port Challenger R1H-92410

Wired headphones for a computer are not as easy to use as those described above, but they also have their strengths. First of all, this model provides stable and higher quality sound. You can choose a modification where the wires are connected to only one side; it is believed that such devices are better. The plug located on the side does not interfere with computer work, for example, when typing or using programs.

Wires have three main nuances:

removable plug – more practical;
The length of the wire may be different - choose according to your needs;
thin wires break faster; according to statistics, this breakdown comes first.

Cup with detachable headphone cable Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

Types of headphones for computer

There are several main types of headphones used when working with a computer. They differ fundamentally in their design and not all are suitable for long-term use. By design, four types of this equipment can be distinguished:

Earbuds are the simplest type, inserted directly into the ear. Their main advantage is their compactness, due to which they are mainly used for listening to music from players and phones. They are completely unsuitable for working on a computer.
In-channel – the design is almost no different from the previous ones. The earplugs tightly close the ear opening, blocking extraneous sounds and improving sound quality. But because of this feature, long-term use of them negatively affects hearing. This type of headphone is not the best choice for PC.
Overhead speakers have a large membrane, which has a positive effect on sound quality. Moreover, such equipment is conveniently mounted and is lightweight, so it can be used with a phone or MP3 player.
Monitors are the best choice for use with a computer. They completely cover the ear, preventing the penetration of extraneous noise to a greater extent. Large and powerful speakers provide high-quality sound compared to other types. In most cases, they are equipped with a microphone, which is necessary for modern online gaming and communication.

ATTENTION! The last two types are best suited for a computer. They are more convenient for these purposes and create less strain on the hearing organs.

Headphones with microphone

Most users prefer to choose laptop or computer headphones with a microphone, as they are a versatile option for various purposes. Conventionally, they are usually called a headset. Comfortable communication will be ensured by a good microphone with noise reduction, and for recording sound or voice this indicator will be key.

The type of microphone mount can be different, each of them has its own characteristics.

The movable mount is the most convenient and practical; the user can adjust the location of the microphone or move it when not in use.
The stationary position is convenient for those who do not change their working position, such as gamers or help desk operators.
A simple wired microphone is suitable for occasional use.
The built-in microphone is not the most practical option, it is always within close reach and there is no need to adjust its position, but it will pick up all sounds.

A microphone is necessary for many online games, online communication and work related to negotiations. Naturally, the more often it is planned to be used, the higher the quality of performance should be.

The combined model has its drawbacks, and many users note that it is more practical to choose a microphone and headphones separately for the computer. During use, one of the devices may fail, then you will have to either purchase an additional module (for example, a microphone) separately or send the entire headset for repair.

What characteristics affect headphone volume?

Experienced users have more than once encountered a situation where some “ears” sound much louder than others, despite the fact that the level on the player did not change. A common belief is that this is due to the power of the model, but this is not entirely true. Yes, the more power, the stronger the sound, but sensitivity matters more for volume.

It is irrational to look for models with high power ratings if the headphones are planned to be used as a sound source from a smartphone or player. Using overly powerful headphones may result in poor sound quality as the source's built-in amplifier will not be able to handle the load.

The indicator that affects loudness is sensitivity. The higher the sensitivity value, the less load on the sound source. However, you should not rely only on the manufacturer’s information. Because users have noticed one feature: real sensitivity rarely coincides with that indicated on the box. Moreover, the lower the price of the model, the greater the likelihood that this discrepancy will be detected.

The problem is that testing standards have not been developed. Each manufacturer conducts tests according to its own rules, so the operating values of models with the same sensitivity may differ.

Useful tips

In addition to descriptions of important characteristics and differences, there are some useful tips on how to choose headphones for your computer.

Active gamers should pay attention to specialized headset models; they are usually full-size, bright and lightweight.
If you often travel by public transport or listen to music in crowded places, pay attention to devices with active noise suppression so that external sounds do not interrupt the signal.
For home or work, a good option is full-size headphones. If sounds may disturb others, then choose closed ones.
When playing sports or listening to music outside, the best option is on-ear headphones. In them, the user will be comfortable listening to music, and at the same time control the situation. Remember: it is not safe to use closed, full-size headphones outdoors that completely block out external noise.
The ear clip mount is not suitable for those who wear glasses.

Perhaps these are all the main nuances that will help you decide on an excellent model of headphones for your computer or laptop. Technical knowledge will help you navigate correctly among the limitless variety of products in stores.

Nothing personal, just marketing

Instead of an introduction

The truth is that the characteristics written on the box are largely a marketing ploy. This is possible due to the fact that there are no strict standards for measuring headphone parameters. Each manufacturer has its own measuring stands (precisely stands, some headphones of the same brand can be measured on one stand, others on another), and the characteristics can be given in different units of measurement.

That is, the same characteristics of Sony and Beats, for example, when compared on the same stand, will show results different from the numbers on the box.

Separately, I would like to note the characteristics of Chinese TWS headphones - cheap clones of AirPods (type i12). When choosing such headphones, you should not pay attention to the characteristics at all. After all, they are obviously fakes or almost fakes, sold only because of their appearance. The quality of the components (including the speakers) and the build in this case is so poor that it makes no sense to look at any specifications.

More or less decent Chinese TWS headphones and more interesting completely wireless models under $100 are collected in our special rating.

Of course, the universal principle “the more numbers, the better” still works, but with some reservations. Let's take a closer look at the main characteristics of the headphones. Let's not get into the nuances, there are very, very many of them. Let's try to arm ourselves with basic concepts that will really help in choosing headphones.

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