Shreya Jaisingh

From earbuds for the Walkman to Beats Headphones, AirPods to Sony Headphones, people have been obsessed with the idea of portable and personal audio for years. Senior Kayleen Prestoza-My explains that those in Generation Z (born from the mid to late 90s to early 2010s) specifically “are more often than not listening to music or watching something on their phone, so earbuds and headphones are just handy and something [they] almost always have.” Everyday and everywhere, people can be seen with these devices on top of their heads or in their ears. However, various versions and styles of headphones and earbuds constantly making new appearances in the market can pose difficulties for individuals when choosing what they would like to use.

To get the facts laid out, Time presents basic descriptions of each device: “Generally speaking, headphones are outside your ears and earbuds are compact drivers that fit within each ear.” Additionally, people have found that headphones often cost more than earbuds do, which makes sense when considering factors like production costs and sound quality. Freshman Aidyn Carlson notes that with famous brands like Apple, though, products become more expensive than they need to be. Carlson says, “You’ll get AirPods and they’ll be like, $150… It should not be that much for a piece of plastic that you put in your ears. But headphones are more expensive since they’re more complex so it’s more reasonably priced.” Additionally, more headphones than earbuds these days are often wireless and can provide a convenient noise-cancellation option that allows users to truly zero in on their music, videos, and phone calls. This allows people to also minimize hearing damage when using headphones. Dr. Cory Portnuff, an audiologist at the University of Colorado Hospital, and Dr. Daniel Fink, an internist and board chair of The Quiet Coalition said to The New York Times that “any listening device with noise canceling technology are all good options” when “[combating] background noise without amping up sound levels.” But of course, the bulk that comes with these complex headphones can be a major turning point for some customers. Earbuds are much smaller when compared to headphones. They become more suitable for minimalists or those who need to get their audio on in a snap. Additionally, they appear very discreetly in the ear and do not weigh down on the head as much as headphones would. Earbuds also bring a plus to safety, as they can be used easily in just one ear. Junior Alynah Huang says, “I prefer using earbuds because I can have one earbud in and have a free ear. I do this for my safety so I can hear if someone is walking behind me.” As a user of both headphones and earbuds, I have found myself trying to use just one side of my headphones or one single earbud to become more aware of other sounds in my surroundings. However, doing so with my headphones sometimes became annoying at times as my hair would get messed up from the device’s awkward position on my head. In my opinion, I feel that there are certain situations where headphones best suit my needs while other situations call for earbuds. At the end of the day, though, it is important to consider yourself before making the hefty purchase.

While contemplating one’s own personal preferences before buying a device is crucial, there may also be external factors to consider. Social media, for example, has been heavily intertwined with modern life for many years. With that fact, content that people may consume, like advertisements, can influence what money is ultimately spent on. Huang recalls, “I see influencers promoting earbuds and headphones a lot. Headphones are curated towards the people that lift weights or sit down and play games, while earbuds are curated towards runners. I see a lot of K-Pop idols promoting earbuds, and see more fashion icons promoting headphones.” While such promotion can help categorize certain audiences by headphones or earbuds, it can also glamourize or over exaggerate the true quality of the devices. As said, some on social media may treat these devices as part of their outfit and a point of wealth rather than something to help enhance one’s daily life. There are times, though, when these devices can become socially unappealing. Sophomore Sam Faso explains this concept based on his personal experiences: “One time I went to church and one person had [AirPods] in. [AirPods are] great, but – same story as a phone – you gotta put it away sometimes and listen to the outside world. Don’t just put in your AirPods and immediately turn on beabadoobee and ignore everyone else. It’s rude.” The amount of time and where one decides to use a listening device must also be considered when deciding between headphones and earbuds. As some say, there is a time and place for every action in this world. It is good to know these limits, not only for others, but also for oneself. CBS News interviewed Dr. Darius Kohan, the director of otology/neurology at Lenox Hill Hospital, who said that “it’s not a natural condition for the ear to have hours of things sticking in it.” Furthermore, one of Rush University Medical Center’s ear, nose, and throat specialists Elias Michaelides states that “if you use [earbuds] for longer periods of time… moisture can build up and make your ears more vulnerable to infection or irritation.” Even though these listening devices can give users an escape from the hectic world, completely forgetting reality is always implausible. Perhaps taking a step back and imagining how you would change physically and mentally once you press play could help protect your morals and your ears.

As all things do, headphones and earbuds have their endless pros and cons. But as a member of Generation Z, I find them as my most prized possessions. I too am guilty of blasting music a little too loud and for too long, along with being ignorant to my surroundings while immersed in my playlists. However, I feel that I truly get my money’s worth for every second of usage. Faso feels the same and says, “Ever since I got headphones in eighth grade, I started listening to a lot more music. It gave me an artistic preference. Before I listened to 80s [music] or whatever, but now I started listening to more genres and more people for myself and not just through what people tell me.” Headphones and earbuds have opened so many doors for people to be and find themselves in even the most overwhelming situations. Whether you consider buying brand new surround sound headphones or an upgrade of the AirPods, make sure to weigh out all your odds before making the final commitment.