Article: Wired earbuds: how to choose the right wired earbuds
Why choose wired earbuds?
The main advantage of wired earbuds is simplicity. You plug them in and the sound plays immediately. No Bluetooth pairing is required, and the earbuds do not have their own battery that needs to be recharged.
- Ready to use as soon as you plug them in.
- No battery or charging required.
- A stable connection without wireless interruptions.
- Easy to switch between devices with the same connection.
- Often an accessible choice when you mainly want to listen and make calls.
Which connection do wired earbuds have?
Check which audio port your device has before purchasing. A plug may look suitable and still not fit. Wired earbuds mainly come with the following three connections.
3.5 mm connection
The round 3.5 mm plug is a well-known analogue audio connection. Many laptops, computers, controllers, and older mobile devices have this port. The advantage is that the same earbuds can be used with a range of devices, as long as the connection is available.
USB-C
USB-C wired earbuds connect directly to a USB-C port. This is practical for recent mobile devices without a traditional audio port. However, check whether the USB-C port also supports digital audio; having a compatible connector alone is not always sufficient.
Lightning
Some mobile devices and accessories use Lightning for audio. In that case, choose earbuds with a Lightning connector with clear compatibility information and relevant certification.
Wired earbuds for your phone
Want to buy wired earbuds for your phone or iPad? First check the bottom of the device or review the technical specifications. Does the device have a round audio port, USB-C, or Lightning? This information helps you avoid needing an adapter or finding that the earbuds do not work at all. So make sure to check your device before making a purchase.
Also pay attention to your phone case. A wide or deep cutout may prevent a sturdy connector from fitting fully into the port. You can briefly remove the case to check whether the connection itself works properly before concluding that the earbuds are defective.
Wired earbuds or wireless earbuds?
The best choice for you depends on when you use them. Wired earbuds excel in simplicity and immediate availability. Wireless earbuds offer more freedom of movement. The key point is that neither is right or wrong. See which option is best for you.
| Feature | Wired earbuds | Wireless earbuds |
|---|---|---|
| Use | Connect and listen | Pair via Bluetooth first |
| Battery | Not needed | Regular charging |
| Movement | Cable remains present | More freedom of movement |
| Connection | Physical, stable connection | Dependent on a wireless signal |
| Forgetting to charge | No problem | Can prevent listening |
When are earbuds with a microphone useful?
There are also earbuds with a microphone. These are suitable when you want to do more than just listen to music or podcasts and also want to be able to make calls. The microphone is usually located in the cable control. This means you can simply talk without having to hold the phone in front of your mouth. For example, consider the following situations:
- Phone calls on the go.
- Video meetings and online classes.
- Recording voice messages.
- Communicating via a laptop or mobile device.
- Gaming with voice communication, if the device supports a microphone.
For a wired headset or earbuds, always check that the connection supports both audio output and microphone input. On some computers, these functions are divided between two separate ports.
What should you look for in the best wired earbuds?
1. A suitable connection
The best wired earbuds start with compatibility. Check your device’s port and see whether you need an adapter. An adapter is useful, but it is also an extra component that you could forget.
2. A comfortable fit
Earbuds should fit securely without pressing uncomfortably on your ears. So-called in-ear models with interchangeable tips often come in multiple sizes. You can simply try out which size suits you. A good seal can also help reduce ambient noise.
3. Sound suited to your use
For podcasts and conversations, clear speech is important. With music, the balance between low, mid, and high frequencies also matters. More bass is not automatically better; above all, the sound should remain pleasant and clear.
4. A useful microphone and controls
Do you make frequent calls? Then choose earbuds with a microphone and controls on the cable. This lets you answer calls or pause music without having to pick up your device.
5. Sturdy cable and connector
The connection between the cable and connector takes a lot of strain. Therefore, pull a plug out of the device by its housing, not by the cable. Store the earbuds loosely coiled to prevent sharp bends. It is also very useful to get a small pouch to keep them in, so the cable won't get tangled with pens in your bag.
What is the difference between wired earbuds and a wired headset?
Wired earbuds go in or just in front of the ear canal. They are compact and easy to carry. A wired headset or pair of headphones usually has a headband and larger earcups. This can be more comfortable for extended use, while earbuds are more practical in a small bag or jacket pocket.
The search terms wired headset and wired headphones are often used for both work models and regular headphones with a microphone. So don't just look at the name, but especially at the product's design, connection, and microphone features.
How to keep wired earbuds intact for longer
- Pull the connector out of the device by its sturdy housing.
- Coil the cable loosely and avoid sharp bends.
- Keep the earbuds dry and preferably in a case or separate compartment.
- Clean the earbuds regularly according to the product instructions.
- Check the connection for dust if the sound cuts out or crackles. A good blast of air can work wonders.
