Why you may need a bone conduction headphone

What is bone conduction headphone?

Bone conduction headphones are a type of headphone that works differently from traditional headphones. Instead of sending sound through the ear canal, these headphones operate by transmitting sound waves through the bones of the skull and jaw directly to the inner ear, bypassing the eardrum entirely.

The process works like this: the headphones sit on the user’s cheekbones (usually in front of the ears), where they generate vibrations. These vibrations are then conducted through the cranial bones to the cochlea in the inner ear, which converts the vibrations into signals that the brain interprets as sound.

Bone conduction headphones have several advantages. Firstly, because they don’t block the ear canal, users can continue to hear ambient noise around them. This can be beneficial for situations where awareness of one’s surroundings is important, like when jogging on busy streets. Secondly, they can be a good solution for people who are unable to use conventional headphones due to hearing impairments, ear infections, or other medical conditions that affect the eardrum or ear canal.

However, these headphones also have some downsides. The sound quality is often not as rich or full as you’d get with traditional headphones, particularly when it comes to bass frequencies. They may also be less comfortable for some people, and can have a shorter battery life than other types of headphones due to the power required to generate the necessary vibrations.

When to use bone conduction headphones?

There are several reasons why people might choose to use bone conduction headphones, especially during exercise:

• Awareness of Surroundings: Unlike traditional headphones, bone conduction headphones do not cover your ears. This allows you to hear the environment around you while you’re out running or biking, making it safer in busy or potentially dangerous environments. It’s easier to hear traffic, other people, and any potential hazards.

• Comfort and Stability: Some people find bone conduction headphones more comfortable during intense workouts or running. Traditional earbuds can fall out during vigorous exercise, and over-ear headphones can become hot and uncomfortable. Bone conduction headphones typically have a secure fit around the back of the head, preventing them from falling off during movement.

• Avoidance of Hearing Damage: Regular headphones, especially when used at high volumes, can potentially cause damage to the eardrums over time. Because bone conduction headphones bypass the eardrums, they can be a safer option for individuals concerned about preserving their hearing.

• Use With Hearing Impairments: For individuals with certain types of hearing loss, particularly those related to the eardrums or the ear canal, bone conduction headphones may allow them to listen to music or other audio more easily than with traditional headphones.

• Convenience: Some models of bone conduction headphones are also designed to be more water- and sweat-resistant than traditional headphones, making them a more durable choice for intense workouts or runs in the rain.

Here are a few best selling bone conduction headphones at Amazon:

1. OKEEFE Bluetooth Headphones 48Hrs Playback Wireless Earbuds

• Features a dual digital power display for easy power tracking.
• Supports wireless and USB C charging.
• Offers 48-hour playback with single and case recharges.
• One-step pairing with automatic power on and connection.
• Provides HD stereo audio with clear bass, midrange, and treble.
• One-button control for music, volume, and calls.
• Comfortable, flexible earhooks perfect for sports.
• Delivers clear calls with noise-filtering technology.
• Rated IPX5 waterproof to resist sweat and rain.

2. PURERINA Bone Conduction Headphones

• Open-ear design delivers high fidelity audio through cheekbones.
• Ensures safety and awareness of surroundings.
• Uses a stable, fast Bluetooth 5.0 connection for quality sound.
• Titanium frame and silicone pads offer stability and comfort during exercise.
• Weighs only 30 grams, perfect for long-term use.
• Certified IP55 waterproof, resistant to sweat, dust, and moisture.
• Provides up to 6 hours of continuous play with 240 hours of standby time.

3. SHOKZ OpenMove — Open-Ear Bluetooth Sport Headphones

• Open-ear headphones for all-day listening comfort and ear fatigue prevention.
• Enables situational awareness without compromising audio enjoyment.
• Wraparound titanium frame ensures a secure fit during various low-impact activities.
• Offers six continuous hours of music, calls, and podcasts on a single charge.
• Delivers high sound quality with balanced audio, optimal volume, and rich bass.’

4. Wigfar Bone Conduction Premium Open-Ear Wireless Bluetooth Sport Headphones

• Equipped with advanced audio technology for premium sound via bone conduction.
• Comfortable wraparound titanium frame and IP55 certified waterproof design.
• Provides 8-hour battery life and supports Type-C fast charging.
• Features Bluetooth 5.0, call noise reduction, and sound leakage technology.
• One-button control for convenient operation.
• Package includes headphones, charging cable, sponge earplugs, and manual.

5. Panadia Bone Conduction Headphones, Open Ear Bluetooth Headphones with Built-in Mic, IPX7 Waterproof Wireless Sport Headset for Running Workout Gym

• Utilizes bone conduction technology for unmatched comfort and accessibility.
• Lightweight, open-ear design ensures all-day comfort without interfering with glasses or hats.
• Allows ambient noise awareness for safety in various environments.
• Features IPX7 waterproof rating for worry-free use during sports.
• Equipped with CVC 8.0 noise reduction technology for clear calls.
• Offers 6 hours of continuous use on a single charge.