365Telugu.com Online News, Hyderabad, May 3, 2025: With headphones becoming an essential part of daily life whether for music, gaming, or virtual learning it’s important to consider how safe they are for prolonged use.
Among the most common types are on-ear and over-ear headphones, each offering unique features in terms of sound quality, comfort, and, crucially, safety. For youth and students across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, who often use headphones for several hours a day, understanding these differences is vital.
On-Ear Headphones: Compact but Risky..?
On-ear headphones rest directly on the ears without fully enclosing them. While they’re lightweight and easy to carry, they come with certain safety drawbacks:
- Discomfort and Ear Pain: Extended use can put pressure on the ears, leading to discomfort or even pain.
- Sound Leakage: These headphones allow external noise to enter and internal sound to escape. This often leads users to increase the volume, which may pose a risk to hearing.
- Hearing Damage Risk: Prolonged exposure to sounds above 85 decibels (dB) can harm the ears. Due to lower noise insulation, users tend to raise the volume to compensate.
Over-Ear Headphones: Safer with the Right Use..
Over-ear headphones envelop the entire ear, offering a more immersive audio experience and some safety advantages:
- Superior Noise Isolation: These headphones reduce external sound significantly, allowing listeners to enjoy audio at lower, safer volumes.
- Comfort for Long Use: With padded cushions around the ears, they apply less pressure, making them ideal for extended sessions.
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Many models come equipped with ANC, which further blocks external noise and enhances safe listening.
However, over-ear models are not without challenges. Continuous use can lead to heat buildup and sweating around the ears, potentially causing skin irritation.
General Safety Tip: The 60/60 Rule..
Regardless of the type, users should follow the 60/60 rule: listen at no more than 60% of maximum volume, and take a break every 60 minutes. This simple habit can go a long way in preserving long-term hearing health.
Which One Should You Choose..?
- On-Ear Headphones: Ideal for short-term use and travel due to their portability. But they require extra care with volume control.
- Over-Ear Headphones: Recommended for long listening sessions such as online classes, gaming, or studio work, offering better comfort and noise protection.
A Hyderabad-based audiologist advises, “To protect your hearing, always keep volume levels below 60–70 dB and take regular breaks. Over-ear headphones are generally safer, but only when used responsibly.”
Final Takeaway
Choose headphones that match your lifestyle—but also prioritize noise isolation, comfort, and volume discipline. Healthy listening habits are just as important as audio quality.