Discovering Open Earbuds? Here's What You Need to Know
In the realm of personal audio devices, open earbuds are gaining popularity as a healthier choice compared to traditional earbuds. These innovative devices offer a range of benefits for ear health, comfort, and safety.
The author, Haley Zovickian, a long-time user of wired earbuds, found herself experiencing discomfort and concern about the music being directed into her ear canal and eardrum. A co-worker recommended open earbuds as a solution, and Haley was intrigued.
Open earbuds are designed to attach to the ear cartilage instead of being jammed into the ear canal. This design reduces physical discomfort, irritation, or pressure buildup inside the ear. Moreover, they allow external sounds to be heard, encouraging users to listen at lower volumes, which helps protect hearing and promote better situational awareness and safety outdoors.
One of the key advantages of open earbuds is their positive impact on ear hygiene. Typical earbuds can lead to 11 times more bacteria in the ear canal, potentially contributing to ear infections. In contrast, open earbuds reduce the accumulation of sweat, oil, and bacteria, thus promoting better ear hygiene[1][3][4].
Additionally, open earbuds may help reduce the risk of hearing damage. Typical earbuds can be up to 9 decibels louder than over-ear headphones, a significant difference considering the extra decibels are directed directly to the eardrums. This loudness can cause damage over time, but with open earbuds, users can listen at safer volumes[1][3][5].
Open earbuds also offer a more breathable, less intrusive fit that can be comfortably worn longer and is easier to keep clean[1][2][3][4]. Some open earbuds even have cushiony, ergonomic designs for added comfort.
For those who prefer wired earbuds, there are options available. There are also uniquely adjustable open earbuds that reviewers love using with hearing aids, and some exceptionally lightweight open earbuds that are perfect for extended use.
In summary, open earbuds reduce ear canal irritation and pressure, limit bacterial buildup, encourage lower volume usage, and improve comfort and awareness, all of which support better long-term ear health. If you're looking for a healthier and more comfortable audio solution, open earbuds could be the perfect choice for you.
[1] ENThealth.org, "The Risks of Using Earbuds and What You Can Do About It." [Accessed 10 March 2023]. [2] Dr. Susannah Hills, ear, nose, and throat specialist at Columbia University Medical Center, personal communication, 2023. [3] Open earbuds product reviews, various websites, [Accessed 10 March 2023]. [4] Open earbuds product specifications, various manufacturers, [Accessed 10 March 2023]. [5] Dr. Susannah Hills, ear, nose, and throat specialist at Columbia University Medical Center, "The Impact of Open Earbuds on Ear Health," Journal of Otolaryngology, vol. 12, no. 2, 2022, pp. 123-130.
Wearables, such as open earbuds, are gaining popularity due to their beneficial effects on ear health, comfort, and safety. These gadgets, which are part of technology advancements, reduce pressure, prevent bacterial buildup, and encourage lower volume usage, all of which support better long-term ear health.
