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, for example the Apple iPod Earphones. They sit in your outer ear, just above the opening of the ear canal.
2. True in-ear headphones that sit further in your ear, creating a seal at the beginning of your ear canal, isolating you from most of the exterior sound around you.

What are the so-called “noise-canceling headphones” I hear about?

“Noise cancelling” (or “active noise canceling”) headphones use electronic technology cancel out exterior noise. While all companies use slightly different technologies, most incorporate a tiny microphone that identifies noise around you, and then emit an opposing signal to cancel out the sound. They work especially well on 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 if you have battery life. 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, but don’t utilize electronic technology to minimize exterior noise. The 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 a fit kit 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.

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 see some very varied prices on headphones…what gives?

Sophisticated sound technologies and multiple drivers (drivers are also known as speaker) 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 price points.

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.