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What are the different styles of headphones?

There are 3 main types of headphones.

First, there are over-ear headphones that are designed to cushion themselves around your ears and envelop you in sound.

Second, there are on-ear headphones that may look pretty similar to over-ear headphones. The difference, however, is that instead of the cushions going around your ear, they actually sit on your ear

Lastly, there are in-ear headphones. This group can actually be divided into two sub-groups:

1. Ear buds, such as the Apple iPod Earphones. They sit in your outer ear, just above the opening of the ear canal.
2. True in-ear headphones that are actually inserted into your ear canal and isolate you from most of the exterior sound around you.

What are “noise-canceling headphones”?

“Noise canceling” (or “active canceling”) headphones use electronic technology to “listen” for unwanted background noise. The headphones then emit an out of phase copy of that noise into your ear. When the background noise and the out of phase copy meet, their waveforms cancel each other out and the background noise is significantly reduced. This technology works especially well in reducing constant noise such as the droning sound you may experience on an airplane or in the subway. Keep in mind that this type of headphone will require batteries. Some models allow you to listen to music even with no battery or active cancellation off, while others only allow you to listen to music only if the system is powered on. You can find active cancelling technology in in-ear, on-ear, as well as over-ear styles.

Are there headphones that don’t require a battery, but also block out exterior noise?

Welcome to the world of passive sound isolation. These in-ear headphones use foam or rubber to fit snugly in the ear canal, but don’t utilize electronic technology to minimize exterior noise. The tight seal blocks out most ambient noise, isolating you from the world and letting you enjoy your music at safe, reasonable volume levels. Most in-ear headphones come with different-size earbuds to allow you to find the best fit for your ears, and some even come with a protective carrying case that can be tucked into a bag or suitcase.

Note: Because passive sound isolating and active noise canceling headphones can isolate you from what is going on around you, one should be extra-careful when crossing a street, biking in public, or in any activity where you need to be aware of your surroundings.

Let’s say I want to be able to hear what’s going on around me. What then?

In the work, gym, or home environment, you may want to stay connected with what’s going on around you. In such cases, a pair of standard on-ear or over-ear headphones or standard earbuds can be perfect. New technologies in some models even let you stay in touch with the world around you while offering a first-class listening experience.

Can I use any wired headphones with my iPhone?

The original iPhone has a recessed headphone jack, so some headphones with oversized plastic casing above the plug will require an inexpensive adapter. iPhone 3G has a standard headphone jack — no adapter needed. All headphones available in the Apple Online Store are compatible with iPhone and iPhone 3G headphone jacks without an adapter.

Whichever iPhone you own, you should consider headphones with an inline microphone that let you make calls and listen to music; many even feature a built-in iPhone controller that lets you play and pause music and skip to the next song. Headphones with microphones are often called “headsets.”

I like to listen to music while I exercise. Which headphones should I get?

In-ear headphones are the lightest headphones available, and their snug fit makes them perfect for active use: properly fitted, they let you you exercise without worrying about the headphones popping out or becoming uncomfortable. If you don’t like the feel of an in-ear headphone, consider an earbud or on-ear style with an over-ear hook that attaches to the outer ear. Their comfortable, secure fit lets you rock out while you work out.

The prices for headphones ranges from $20 to more than $500. Why?

Sophisticated sound technologies and multiple drivers (speakers) can increase a headphone’s price—and generally, its audio quality. Single driver, double driver, and triple driver headphones all have different levels of audio clarity and bass response and are usually the biggest factor in different headphone prices.

What headphones are best for kids? Are there any models created just for the young ones?

Yes. Some headphone manufacturers are offering smaller, earbud style headphones that are designed to fit more comfortably in children’s ears. They’re designed to give parents comfort as well: most models also limit the music playback volume to 60% of an iPod’s maximum output, to protect young, fragile ears. Their bright, eye-catching colors help make them more appealing to kids of all ages.