Bone-conduction headphones
Lots of us can’t imagine life without headphones these days. They allow us to connect with colleagues over virtual meetings, entertain us during travel without disturbing those around us, play music while we’re walking or running and provide superior sound experiences while we’re watching movies or gaming.
But having our hearing cut off is not always the safest option. For example, you might need to be able to listen out for traffic while cycling or running.
Bone-conduction headphones allow you to keep your ears free by transmitting sound through your cheekbones rather than your ear canals. They’re also a great option for those with hearing disabilities.
How do bone-conduction headphones work?
Bone-conduction headphones use a unique type of audio system to conduct soundwaves to the brain. Ordinary headphones channel soundwaves into the ear canal. Bone-conduction headphones take the same audio and convert it to vibrations that travel through the bone structure of your head.
The vibrations travel through your cheekbones to reach an inner ear structure called the cochlea, where they then travel along the cochlear nerve to signal these vibrations to the brain so you can hear what’s being transmitted.
Bone-conduction headphone features
Headband shape and fit
The headband of most bone-conduction headphones wraps around the back of the head. For the most part, these bands are not adjustable. So verify the sizing of the headphones before you buy to ensure they’ll fit comfortably. You want a pair that fits snugly if you’ll be exercising, so they don’t fall off, or comfortably if you need it for extended periods at work or on the go.
Travel accessories
To keep your headphones safe and sound while you travel, some models will come with a portable case. Many come with a travel case that also doubles as a backup charger to prolong battery life.
Battery life
The battery life can vary pretty wildly from one set to another. Some will only provide a couple of hours of listening time while others can last you the full day (if not longer). If you’re going to be using your pair for an extended period, or won’t have available charging throughout the day, stay away from models advertised around the 6-hour mark. These are better suited for exercise.
Which bone-conduction headphones should you buy?
Best all-around bone-conduction headphones
VIDONN Bone Conduction Headphones: Available at Amazon
Our take: This pair is an ideal selection for those who want to use their headphones for multiple activities including exercising or taking calls.
What we like: Built-inambientnoise reduction technology. Resistant to light rain and sweat.
What we dislike: Bluetooth connectivity is not the strongest and may drop.
Ralyin Sweatproof Bone Conduction Headphones: Available at Amazon
Our take: This is a great all-rounder set providing Bluetooth connectivity, decent battery life, a transport case and good sound quality.
What we like: Allows you to store music directly on the headphones but you can also switch back and forth to Bluetooth connectivity with one push of a button.
What we dislike: The wraparound headband is a little flimsy.
ZBones Mossy Oak Camo Headphones: Available at Amazon
Our take: If you’re looking for a distinctive look, these headphones come with a unique camouflage print.
What we like: Adjust volume, change tracks and receive and end calls without using your phone. Multi-function button adds versatility and ease of use to this model.
What we dislike: The battery life may not last as long as advertised.
Best bone-conduction headphones for work or gaming
YouthWhisper Bone Conduction Headphones: Available at Amazon
Our take: These headphones come with a 130-degree swivel microphone so you can use them for work as well as play.
What we like: Provides 8 hours of talk time or 6 hours of listening time in one charge.
What we dislike: The sound from the boom mic is not clear or strong.
Best bone-conduction headphones for travel
DACOM Bone Conduction Headphones: Available at Amazon
Our take: If battery life is a top concern, these headphones provide up to 26 hours of power with a single charge, making them great for long trips.
What we like: Portable charging case is included for extra battery life. Perfect for long flights or rides.
What we dislike: Since they clip directly onto the ear and cheekbone, they may not be as comfortable for long-term wear as other options.
Best bone-conduction headphones for exercising
Happy Island Bone Conduction Headphones: Available at Amazon
Our take: These headphones provide quality sound directly through bone conduction so anyone nearby won’t be disturbed by your audio listening.
What we like: Smart light sensor automatically pauses audio play when you remove the headphones to preserve battery life.
What we dislike: The Bluetooth connectivity was intermittent for some users.
IYY Bluetooth Bone Conduction Headphones: Available at Amazon
Our take: Made from titanium alloy, these are a durable option while remaining lightweight and comfortable to wear.
What we like: Easilycontrol volume and on/off functionality with a button on the headphones. Secure fit for active use.
What we dislike: The low power alerts kick in on 40% battery and continue to beep at every 10% increment which can be distracting.
Swimaudios Bone Conduction Headphones: Available at Amazon
Our take: Fit these headphones to your cheekbones and the anti-drop design ensures they stay in place during any activity.
What we like: They fit over the ear and connect to the cheekbones rather than under the ear to keep them secure on your head. Sweat, dust and moisture repellant.
What we dislike: The sound volume does not go very high.
Best bone-conduction headphones for swimming
HPTCCC Waterproof Bone Conduction Headphones: Available at Amazon
Our take: These headphones are designed for complete water submersion so they are completely sweatproof and can be worn while swimming.
What we like: Provides 8 GB of memory (about 2400 songs) so you can store music directly in the headphones if you don’t want to bring a phone or device with you into the pool.
What we dislike: Size cannot be adjusted.
Best bone-conduction headphones for comfort
AfterShokz Aeropex: Available at Amazon
Our take: AfterShokz use their patented bone-conduction technology to deliver hands-free high quality audio through these headphones.
What we like: Lightweight for comfortable wearing all day. Sweat- and waterproof but not suitable for swimming.
What we dislike: Users report a lack of bass sound conducted through the headphones.
AfterShokz Air Open Ear Wireless Bone Conduction Headphones: Available at Amazon
Our take: This set provides all the quality sound and features of other AfterShokz models but they are 20% lighter for added comfort.
What we like: Comes with a silicone charging case, charging cables and ear plugs.
What we dislike: Not very comfortable for people who wear glasses.
Best adjustable bone-conduction headphones
Tayogo Wireless Earbuds Sports: Available at Amazon
Our take: Many bone-conduction headphones are completely non-adjustable, but this pair allows you to bend and shape the back of the headband to suit your head shape.
What we like: Provides high-quality sound that does not distort or decrease in quality when you increase the volume.
What we dislike: Noise leakage may occur.
Lauren Farrell is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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