Headphones have become an essential item lately; when they break down, you immediately start looking for a new pair. However, there are numerous options on the market, and making a choice is never easy. Finding headphones that don’t only sound right but last can become quite challenging – fortunately, not impossible.
First things first, never buy headphones because they’re cheap. Remember that you get what you pay for, and $5 headphones won’t sound as good as the $30 variety (and probably much worse than those for $300). But don’t worry about spending all your savings – you can find good-quality durable headphones even if you’re on a budget. You just need to know what to look for.
We’ve consulted the experts from Headphonesaddict.com — a blog about headphones and earbuds – and asked them how to choose the most durable device. Want to experience music on a whole new level for a long time? Read on!
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Check the Cables
If you want wired headphones, the cable is the first thing to check. It should be long enough for your situation, but not too much – a cable can easily become tangled (or even affect sound quality!) If you are willing to purchase a better-quality pair, make sure the cable is shielded – this minimizes noise and prolongs the headphones’ life.
If the cable is insubstantial or thin, it may break shortly, externally or internally. You probably have encountered the latter – this happens when one of the earbuds stops working, and you have to tug or pull it to see if the problem will disappear. To avoid such a situation, look for thicker cables – for example, braided ones – which are reinforced at both ends.
When you’re buying headphones from a premium brand, check if replacement parts are available on the market. If something happens, it will be cheaper to change only the cable instead of the whole set.
Go for a Heavier Pair
Lighter headphones may be more comfortable, but they aren’t very durable. You may sit on them accidentally or snap them in half – it’s better to purchase something heavier when possible. However, you often need something to take with you outside, and then a lighter pair is preferable. In such a case, make sure to be careful with your headphones, and choose the most durable pair from your shortlisted selection.
You may also look for fold-ups – they’re portable and easier to protect in transit. But before buying, check if they’re sturdy enough – the hinges may break off quickly.
Make Sure There’s a Case (If Necessary)
Headphones are made of plastic, which, depending on their quality, may often break. And if some parts are glued together, you’ll have a hard time repairing them if anything happens. Whether you’re buying premium-quality headphones or the cheaper pair, a case may be necessary, especially if you travel a lot.
Look for a case made of hard plastic or metal, so even if the headphones fall, nothing will happen to them. And make sure it’s comfortable – for example, if you’re buying an earbuds case, it should fit in your pocket.
Look for Waterproofing
If you’re going to take your headphones or earphones outside, look for a waterproof pair. If it starts raining, a plash or two can ruin a perfectly good piece of equipment, and you want it to last.
There’s something called an IPX rating that indicates how waterproof a product is, so it is worth checking the IPX score of the headphones you are considering purchasing. If you don’t submerge in water with your earbuds often, choose the pair with an IPX rating of 5 or 6. And if you’re a swimmer, go for level 7 – just remember that “waterproof” is not the same as “water-resistant.”
Ask for a Warranty
Even if you’re on a budget, try to get a warranty for your headphones. There’s always a chance that your pair was born defective on the production line, and nobody has noticed it. Trust us – that happens more often than you may think.
Most stores offer earphones with a 1-year warranty against manufacturing defects and malfunction, so if something goes wrong, you will be able to have the device repaired repair at no additional cost (of course, if you didn’t break it yourself).
Let Your Headphones Live Long
Buying headphones can be challenging, especially if you want to get the best device at your preferred budget. Quality of the sound and the device, design, affordability – all those factors matter, but you should remember about durability, too.
Ensure the headphones you’re buying are waterproof, sturdy, and heavy enough not to break, and have a long and thick cable. Store them in a special case, if you’re going to take them outside, to avoid potential damage, and remember to ask for the warranty in the store. This way, your headphones won’t break down quickly after you purchase them, and you’ll be able to enjoy the quality sound for longer.
