Earbuds or over-ear headphones? The right answer depends on where you listen, how long for, and whether you take calls. Here's how to choose, and what the specs on the box actually mean.
Earbuds: small, light and easy to carry
True wireless earbuds fit in a pocket, stay out of the way at the gym or on a commute, and are easy to wear with a hoodie or glasses. The charging case tops them up during the day, which is why battery life is usually quoted as total playtime including the case.
- JBL Wave Buds 2: Active Noise Cancelling, IP54 splash and dust resistance, and multi-point connection.
- M20 earbuds and M19 earbuds: Bluetooth 5.3 earbuds with a battery display on the case, at a budget price.
One thing to know: for hygiene reasons, earbuds with a broken seal can't be returned for change of mind. Faulty ones are still covered by our warranty.
Over-ear headphones: comfort and longer battery
Over-ear headphones have bigger batteries and sit around your ears instead of in them, which many people find more comfortable for long sessions at a desk, on a long trip or while gaming.
- JBL Tune 570BT: foldable, with up to 40 hours of battery.
- Volkano Pebble: up to 75 hours of playtime and dual-device connection.
- JBL Pure Bass: comfortable over-ears tuned for bass.
Buying for a child
Children's ears are more sensitive to loud sound. Headphones like the JBL Junior 320BT limit volume to 85dB, a common safe-listening guideline for kids.
What the specs mean
- ANC (Active Noise Cancelling) uses microphones to reduce the noise you hear, such as engine hum on a bus or plane.
- ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation) reduces background noise on calls, so the person you're talking to hears you more clearly. It doesn't quieten what you hear.
- Multi-point means staying connected to two devices at once, such as your phone and laptop.
- IP ratings show resistance to dust and water. IP54 handles splashes and sweat. Higher ratings, like the IP67 on the JBL Xtreme 3 speaker, can survive a short dunk in water.
- Bluetooth version matters less than people think. Newer versions can connect more reliably, but both devices need to support them to benefit.
Quick checklist
- Commuting or gym: earbuds. Long sessions at home or work: over-ear.
- Noisy trips: look for ANC. Lots of calls: look for ENC or good microphones.
- Switching between phone and laptop: look for multi-point.
- For kids: choose volume-limited headphones.
Browse all audio and speakers, or WhatsApp us on +27 64 553 1661 if you'd like a recommendation.