Bone conduction headphones offer a unique and innovative way to enjoy your music while staying aware of your surroundings. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a swimmer, or simply someone who wants to be more in tune with the world around you, these headphones provide an exceptional audio experience.
Unlike traditional earbuds or headphones that sit inside or over your ears, bone conduction headphones utilize transducers to send audio vibrations through your bones directly to your ears. This technology leaves your ears open, allowing you to hear ambient sounds while still enjoying your favorite tunes. It may sound unusual, but trust us, it works.
While noise-canceling headphones have their merits, bone conduction headphones are the ideal choice if you value situational awareness during your activities such as walking, running, or cycling. They keep you connected to your environment without compromising on audio quality.
Moreover, these headphones offer practical benefits beyond recreational activities. If you work in a bustling office environment and find yourself constantly removing your earbuds to engage in conversations, bone conduction headphones provide a seamless solution. Additionally, some models are completely waterproof, making them perfect for swimmers and water sports enthusiasts.
Currently, the majority of the best bone conduction headphones feature a band that fits around the back of your head. However, emerging on the market are wireless bone conduction earbuds like the Shokz OpenFit, indicating a potential shift in the industry. Keep an eye out for exciting developments from the pioneering brand Shokz.
Having extensively tested numerous bone conduction headphones in various settings, including the gym, trails, and urban cycling, we have curated a selection of the best options for different activities and budgets. Our guide covers the top bone conduction headphones for working out, swimming, running, and more.
Discover the world of bone conduction headphones and elevate your listening experience while staying connected to the world around you.
Read More: How to Turn Off Siri on Your iPhone or iPad
Immersive Sound and Versatility: H2O Audio Tri Multi-Sport Bone Conduction Headphones
The H2O Audio Tri Multi-Sport bone conduction headphones are the ultimate companion for your workouts, offering exceptional performance and a range of features. While they may have a higher price tag compared to other options, they provide unparalleled value with their extensive capabilities.
Specifications:
- Weight: 33g
- Water resistance rating: IPX8
- Battery life: 8-9 hours
- Storage: Yes, with 8GB flash memory
Strengths:
- Dual functionality with both Bluetooth and 8GB flash memory for versatile music playback options.
- Overall great sound quality, delivering an immersive audio experience.
- Highest waterproof rating (IPX8), making them suitable for water-based activities.
Limitations:
- The main button needs to be pressed precisely, requiring some dexterity for control.
- Music may sound a little too bass-heavy underwater, affecting the audio balance.
Designed for both land-based and swimming workouts, these headphones stand out with their built-in MP3 player. Boasting a generous 8GB of storage, you can store all your favorite tracks directly on the headphones, eliminating the need for Bluetooth connectivity while in the water. However, when you’re on dry land, you can still take advantage of the seamless Bluetooth streaming to enjoy your preferred music or podcasts.
During our rigorous testing, the H2O Audio Tri Multi-Sport headphones impressed us with their exceptional audio quality. They deliver rich and immersive sound in all modes, although the bass can be slightly overpowering underwater. Whether you’re above water streaming via Bluetooth or underwater listening to podcasts, the sound quality remains impressive.
While the button controls require a bit of familiarity to master, they are a minor inconvenience compared to the overall performance of these headphones. With their superior features and sound quality, the H2O Audio Tri Multi-Sport bone conduction headphones reign as the top choice in the market today.
Read More: Ferrofluid Speaker: A Visual Experience of Music
Shokz OpenRun: The Best Bone Conduction Headphones for Most People
The Shokz OpenRun, formerly known as the AfterShokz Aeropex, is a top-of-the-line bone conduction headphone that excels in both design and sound quality, making it the ideal choice for many users.
Specifications:
- Weight: 26g
- Water resistance rating: IP67
- Battery life: 8 hours
- Storage: No
Strengths:
- Slim and light design, providing a comfortable and unobtrusive wearing experience.
- Good battery life ensures extended usage without frequent recharging.
Limitations:
- The buttons on the headphones are positioned very close together, requiring precision when pressing.
- Vibrations may occur at higher volume levels, which could be a potential inconvenience for some users.
Weighing just 26g, the OpenRun boasts a slim and lightweight design, offering a comfortable fit for extended wear. It is 30% smaller and 13% lighter than its predecessor, the Trekz Air, making it even more convenient for active use. With an IP67 water-resistance rating, these headphones can withstand rain and sweat, making them perfect for workouts and outdoor activities.
One notable improvement in OpenRun is its sound quality. Shokz has made adjustments to enhance bass performance and minimize vibration and sound leakage compared to their previous models. The result is a more immersive audio experience with improved clarity and depth. Additionally, the headphones feature dual noise-canceling microphones for clear phone calls.
The OpenRun incorporates two physical buttons for volume control, although they are positioned quite close together, which may take some getting used to. The proprietary charging system contributes to the headphones’ impressive water-resistance rating. With a battery life of eight hours and quick-charge support, the OpenRun ensures a reliable and long-lasting listening experience.
While the newer OpenRun Pro model offers superior specifications, the OpenRun remains one of the best bone conduction headphones available, providing excellent value for most users’ needs.
Read More: Apple Unveils iOS Update with Enhanced Features
Zygo Solo: The Best Bone Conduction Headphones for Swimming
When it comes to swimming, the Zygo Solo stands out as the ultimate choice for bone conduction headphones. With its innovative features and exceptional performance, it redefines the way you enjoy music and audio content while submerged in water.
Specifications:
- Weight: 66g
- Water resistance rating: IP67
- Battery life: 3 hours
- Storage: Yes
Today’s Best Deals:
- Check Amazon
- View at Zygo
Strengths:
- Streams audio underwater
- Easy to set up
- Excellent sound
Limitations:
- Needs lots of gear poolside
- Works best with earplugs
One of the key highlights of the Zygo Solo is its ability to stream music and podcasts directly from your phone, even when it’s placed by the poolside. Unlike traditional Bluetooth connectivity that struggles to penetrate water, these headphones employ an FM radio transmitter to deliver uninterrupted audio. This means you can access your favorite tracks, podcasts, and coaching tips through the Zygo app without the need to store MP3 files on the headphones themselves.
What truly impressed us during our tests was the remarkable sound quality of the Zygo Solo. While it may sound slightly tinny on land, as soon as you dunk it in the water, the headphones unleash a deep and resonating bass that keeps you motivated and engaged throughout your swimming sessions.
While the transmitter of the Zygo Solo may appear relatively large, and the headset itself is not the most compact, we found them to be comfortable during our workouts, with the transmitter being a minor inconvenience. Additionally, the Zygo mobile app enhances the overall experience with its instructor-led workouts, making it an excellent companion for your swimming routine.
With a weight of 66g, the Zygo Solo remains lightweight enough to ensure comfort during extended swimming sessions. Moreover, its water resistance rating of IP67 provides peace of mind, knowing that these headphones are designed to withstand the aquatic environment.
While it’s important to note that using the Zygo Solo may require additional gear poolside, once you have everything set up, the headphones offer an unmatched underwater audio experience. Their ease of use, remarkable sound performance, and the convenience of streaming audio from your phone make the Zygo Solo the go-to choice for swimmers seeking an immersive and enjoyable workout soundtrack.
Read More: When is Black Panther 2 Coming to Disney Plus
Shokz OpenRun Pro: Uncompromising Bass in Bone Conduction Headphones
Specifications:
- Weight: 29g
- Water resistance rating: IP55
- Battery life: 10 hours
- Storage: No
Today’s Best Deals:
- View at Merlin Cycles Affiliates
- View at Tredz Limited
- View at Wiggle
Strengths:
- Rich bass that outperforms other bone conduction headphones
- Lightweight and comfortable design for extended wear
- Quick-charge feature for convenient charging on the go
Limitations:
- Occasional tickling sensation from the bass transducers
- Relatively higher price compared to other options
The Shokz OpenRun Pro sets a new benchmark in bone conduction headphones by providing exceptional sound quality, especially in the bass department. Unlike most bone conduction headsets that compromise on audio performance, these headphones feature innovative bass transducers that deliver a richer and more immersive sound experience, making them ideal for activities like running where a strong beat can drive your motivation. To further enhance your listening experience, the Shokz app allows you to customize the EQ settings, optimizing the sound for music or audiobooks.
In terms of design, the OpenRun Pro closely resembles the original OpenRun model but incorporates several thoughtful improvements. The charging port has been repositioned for easier access, and the volume/power buttons have been enlarged for enhanced usability. Despite their lightweight construction, these headphones provide a comfortable fit and remained comfortable even during long training runs. Additionally, the quick-charge feature ensures that a mere five-minute charge grants you an impressive hour and a half of playtime.
While the OpenRun Pro offers an exceptional audio experience, some users may occasionally experience a tickling sensation caused by the new bass transducers resting against the cheekbones. However, this minor drawback doesn’t diminish the fact that the OpenRun Pro stands as the top choice among bone conduction headphones, proving that prioritizing safety doesn’t necessitate compromising on sound quality.
Read More: How to Insert PDF into Word
Shokz OpenComm UC: Unmatched Call Quality in a Bone Conduction Headset
The Shokz OpenComm UC is revolutionizing the headset market with its bone conduction technology tailored for productivity and call-intensive work. Weighing just 33 grams, this headset offers an incredibly lightweight design that ensures comfort even during extended periods of use. Unlike traditional headsets, the OpenComm UC leaves your ears completely uncovered, preventing any feelings of discomfort or excessive sweating.
Specifications:
- Weight: 33 grams
- Water resistance rating: IP55
- Battery life: Up to 30 hours
- Storage: Not available
Current Best Deals:
- You can find the best deals for this headset on Amazon.
Strengths:
- Exceptionally lightweight
- Provides a high level of comfort
- Offers better microphone quality compared to most other headsets
Limitations:
- The sound may become tiring when listening at louder volumes
- The boom microphone could be slightly longer
- The headset is relatively expensive
One standout feature of the OpenComm UC is its impressive microphone quality. While it may not match the clarity of holding a phone directly to your face, it surpasses the performance of most headsets available. The only potential improvement could be a slightly longer boom mic to further enhance communication clarity. Nevertheless, the OpenComm UC provides an exceptional microphone experience that enhances call quality and ensures clear communication throughout your workday.
It is important to note that the OpenComm UC does come with a higher price tag compared to other headsets on the market. Additionally, at louder volumes, the vibrations associated with bone conduction technology can become fatiguing. However, keeping the volume at a reasonable level is easily manageable, especially considering that the primary purpose of this headset is for making calls.
While the OpenComm UC offers remarkable call quality and an incredibly lightweight design, it does come at a premium price. The discomfort caused by vibrations at higher volumes can be mitigated by adjusting the volume settings accordingly. Ultimately, the Shokz OpenComm UC stands as the best bone conduction headset for those seeking top-notch call performance and a comfortable all-day wear experience, making it a worthwhile investment for professionals who rely on frequent communication.
Read More: How to Cascade Windows on Windows 10
Mojawa Mojo1: Unleashing Rich Bass and Extended Battery Life in Bone Conduction Headphones
The Mojawa Mojo1 headphones shatter the notion that bone conduction technology must come at the expense of sound quality. Similar to the Shokz OpenRun Pro, these headphones deliver an exceptional audio experience while leaving your ears open to the surrounding environment. With its impressive bass performance, the Mojo1 is designed to provide a motivational boost during intense workouts or activities.
Specifications:
- Weight: 34 grams
- Water resistance rating: IP67
- Battery life: Up to 8 hours
- Storage: Not available
Current Best Deals:
- Check out the Amazon listing for the best deals on this headset.
Strengths:
- Remarkable bass performance
- Weatherproof design for durability
- Reflective detailing for enhanced visibility
Limitations:
- Large transducers may not be suitable for everyone
- Some users may experience occasional tickling sensations
Comfort is key during extended use, and the Mojo1 excels in this aspect. Even during prolonged sessions, these headphones maintain stability and deliver a comfortable fit. Additionally, their IP67 rating ensures robust protection against sweat, dust, and splashes, making them an ideal companion for active lifestyles. The inclusion of reflective detailing adds an extra safety feature, enhancing visibility during nighttime workouts.
One consideration is that the transducer pads of the Mojo1 are slightly larger and chunkier compared to other models. While this may be a minor aesthetic concern for some, it does not compromise the overall performance or comfort of the headphones.
Occasionally, users may experience a slight tickling sensation when listening to music with pronounced bass, but this is generally not disruptive to the listening experience. In all other aspects, the Mojawa Mojo1 strikes an impressive balance, combining the benefits of bone conduction technology with an immersive sound experience.
With its exceptional bass, weatherproof design, and reflective detailing, the Mojawa Mojo1 offers an enticing proposition for those seeking high-quality bone conduction headphones. Embrace the best of both worlds with the Mojo1, where sound excellence and situational awareness converge.
Read More: How to Update TikTok on Your Phone Manually
YouthWhisper SuperQ3: Stay Connected and Enjoy Swims with Ease
The YouthWhisper SuperQ3 headphones offer a unique proposition for swimmers who prioritize staying connected even during their aquatic workouts. While many bone conduction headphones shy away from promoting their swim-friendly features due to limitations with underwater Bluetooth connectivity, we decided to put the SuperQ3 to the test—and the results were pleasantly surprising.
Specifications:
- Weight: 34g
- Water resistance rating: IP67
- Battery life: 8 hours
- Storage: No
Current Best Deals:
- Check out the Amazon listings for the best deals on these headphones.
Strengths:
- Bluetooth streaming capability, including phone calls
- Affordable price for swimming headphones
- Convenient headset controls
Limitations:
- The sound may fluctuate underwater
- Charging port cover may not stay closed reliably
Although these headphones lack a built-in MP3 player, they excel in their ability to receive phone calls during swims. By keeping your phone conveniently above water and ensuring your head remains close to the surface, you can maintain seamless connectivity and never miss an important call while enjoying your swim. It’s worth noting that the SuperQ3 headphones are best suited for pool swims, where you can keep your phone within range.
Designed to provide a secure fit, the SuperQ3 headphones stay in place during vigorous swims, ensuring a worry-free experience. The inclusion of easy-to-use controls allows for effortless navigation even with wet hands, adding to the overall convenience.
While the sound quality is generally good, it tends to be slightly tinny, making the headphones more suitable for podcasts rather than music. For those seeking enhanced audio quality, using the included earplugs can make a notable difference, although this deviates from the primary purpose of bone conduction headphones.
In summary, the YouthWhisper SuperQ3 headphones strike a balance between swim-friendly functionality and connectivity. Embrace the convenience of staying connected during swims while enjoying a comfortable and secure fit. Dive into a world of aquatically enhanced communication with the SuperQ3.
Read More: How to Duplicate a Page in Word
Shokz Trekz Air: Unmatched Comfort for Seamless Listening
When it comes to bone conduction headphones, the Shokz Trekz Air stands out as a top contender in the realm of comfort and affordability. Offering many of the features found in its higher-end counterpart, the OpenRun, the Trekz Air provides an exceptional audio experience without breaking the bank. While it may not be the most compact or lightweight option, it compensates with an IP55 rating, ensuring durability even during intense workouts.
Specifications:
- Weight: 30g
- Water resistance rating: IP55
- Battery life: 6 hours
- Storage: No
Current Best Deals:
- Explore the Amazon listing for the best deals on these headphones.
Strengths:
- Precise and meticulous design
- Comfortable and secure fit
Limitations:
- Possibility of ear tickling sensation
- Sound quality may be unsatisfactory
Sporting the signature wraparound titanium frame, the Trekz Air prioritizes comfort and stability. With a well-distributed weight of 30g, these headphones are designed to be worn for extended periods without causing discomfort or slippage. Bluetooth pairing allows for easy connectivity with your devices, while the integrated controls for volume adjustment and mute functionality provide convenience in busy environments or during conversations.
While the sound quality of the Trekz Air is commendable for bone conduction headphones, it may struggle to compete in louder environments. At maximum volume, users may experience the familiar tickling sensation associated with bone conduction technology. Therefore, it is advisable to enjoy the headphones at moderate volumes for optimal performance and comfort. With a battery life of six hours, the Trekz Air also features a quick-charge function, providing one hour of listening time with just 15 minutes of charging.
In summary, the Shokz Trekz Air delivers unparalleled comfort and a satisfying audio experience at an affordable price point. Embrace the pleasure of seamless listening during workouts and everyday activities, all while enjoying the convenience of its user-friendly controls. Discover a new level of comfort and affordability with the Trekz Air by your side.
Read More: How to Raise Hand in Zoom Meetings
Padmate S30: Affordable Bone Conduction Headphones for Budget-conscious Users
For those looking to dip their toes into the world of bone conduction headphones without breaking the bank, the Padmate S30 is an excellent option. While it may not boast the same level of audio richness and detail as higher-end models, it shines in delivering a satisfactory listening experience for audiobooks and podcasts during workouts.
Specifications:
- Weight: 22g
- Water resistance rating: IPX5
- Battery life: 8 hours
- Storage: No
Current Best Deals:
- Check out the Padmate website for the best deals on these headphones.
Strengths:
- More affordable compared to other options
- Comfortable to wear for extended periods
Limitations:
- Absence of volume buttons
- Sound quality is average
One notable downside of the Padmate S30 is the absence of dedicated volume buttons. Instead, users need to rely on their connected devices to adjust the volume. This design choice may feel inconvenient for some, especially when seeking quick control over audio levels. Additionally, the buttons on the headset can be a bit finicky to operate, requiring some getting used to.
However, where the Padmate S30 truly shines is in its comfort. Weighing a mere 22g, these headphones are lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods. Once in place, you can easily forget you’re wearing them, allowing you to fully focus on your activities. Furthermore, the impressive battery life of up to 8 hours ensures that you can enjoy your audio content without interruption, even if you need to increase your phone’s volume to meet your listening preferences.
In conclusion, the Padmate S30 is an affordable choice for those seeking an entry point into the realm of bone conduction headphones. While it may lack certain features and deliver middling sound quality compared to higher-priced alternatives, it excels in providing comfortable and hassle-free listening experiences, particularly for audiobooks and podcasts. Embrace the affordability and lightweight design of the Padmate S30 as you embark on your bone conduction headphone journey.
Read More: What Does IMY Mean
A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Best Bone Conduction Headphones for You
Bone conduction headphones have gained popularity among fitness enthusiasts who value situational awareness. However, their benefits extend beyond exercise, as they can be useful in various scenarios where you need to listen to both your music and the surrounding environment, such as walking on busy streets or working from home while remaining attentive to family members or doorbells.
With numerous options available, selecting the right bone conduction headphones can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in. We’ve taken on the task of testing various models during activities like swimming, running, and commuting to provide you with recommendations.
Although there aren’t as many options in the bone conduction headphone market compared to other types of wireless headphones, there are still several factors to consider. For fitness purposes, it’s important to check the IP (ingress protection) rating, which indicates the headphones’ resistance to sweat and water.
If you plan to use the headphones for taking calls without interacting with your smartphone, look for units equipped with built-in controls and a microphone. Design, fit, and budget are also crucial considerations. To explore further, let’s delve into the top bone conduction headphones of 2022.
Sound Quality of Bone Conduction Headphones
While the bone conduction headphones featured in this guide offer decent audio performance, they cannot match the sound quality of in-ear or over-ear headphones. If you desire both situational awareness and high audio quality, consider true wireless earbuds with transparency modes that allow external sound to reach your ears.
Potential Health Benefits of Bone Conduction Headphones
Aside from the obvious advantage of being aware of your surroundings during workouts, bone conduction headphones may be better for your hearing health compared to earbuds, over-ear, or on-ear headphones. By not delivering sound directly to your eardrums, they reduce the risk of damage from listening to loud music.
Shokz Headphones with Superior Sound
While some Shokz headphone models may offer more comfortable wearing experiences, the OpenRun Pro stands out for its exceptional sound quality. These headphones feature updated bass transducers that deliver richer audio compared to other bone conduction headsets. Furthermore, the Shokz app allows you to customize the sound profile through EQ settings to suit your preferences.
Read More: HBU Meaning and How to Use it
Conclusion
Bone conduction headphones offer a unique listening experience that allows you to enjoy music while staying aware of your surroundings. They are especially suitable for activities like running, cycling, swimming, and working out, where situational awareness is important. The best bone conduction headphones on the market utilize innovative technology to transmit sound vibrations through your bones, keeping your ears free. They come in various models, including options for swimming, sports, calls, and budget-friendly choices.
While the market is currently dominated by headphone designs with a band around the back of the head, wireless bone conduction earbuds are emerging as a potential game-changer. The H2O Audio Tri Multi-Sport, Shokz OpenRun, Zygo Solo, Shokz OpenRun Pro, Shokz OpenComm UC, Mojawa Mojo1, YouthWhisper SuperQ3, and Shokz Trekz Air are some of the top bone conduction headphones available, each with its own unique features and advantages. Whether you want to enhance your workout or stay connected while on the move, bone conduction headphones offer a compelling audio solution.
Read More: How to Delete GitHub Repository
FAQs
Q: What are bone conduction headphones?
A: Bone conduction headphones are a type of headphones that transmit sound vibrations through your cheekbones directly to your inner ears, bypassing the eardrums. This allows you to hear sound while still being aware of your surroundings.
Q: How do bone conduction headphones work?
A: Bone conduction headphones use transducers to convert audio signals into vibrations. These vibrations are then transferred through the bones of your skull to your inner ears, where they are perceived as sound. This technology allows you to listen to audio without blocking your ear canal, keeping your ears open for other sounds.
Q: What are the advantages of bone conduction headphones?
A: Bone conduction headphones offer several advantages. Firstly, they allow you to hear ambient sounds, making them suitable for outdoor activities where situational awareness is important. They also eliminate the discomfort of traditional headphones or earbuds that sit inside or cover the ears. Additionally, bone conduction headphones can be beneficial for individuals with hearing impairments or certain medical conditions.
Q: Are bone conduction headphones suitable for sports and outdoor activities?
A: Yes, bone conduction headphones are ideal for sports and outdoor activities. Their design allows you to hear traffic, fellow athletes, or any potential hazards while enjoying your music or audio. They are commonly used by runners, cyclists, swimmers, and individuals who want to stay connected to their surroundings during workouts.
Q: Can bone conduction headphones be used while swimming?
A: Some bone conduction headphones are specifically designed for swimming and offer a high water resistance rating. These headphones are built to withstand immersion in water and allow you to listen to music or audio while swimming. However, it’s essential to check the specifications of the specific model to ensure it is suitable for swimming.
Q: Do bone conduction headphones provide good sound quality?
A: The sound quality of bone conduction headphones has improved over the years, but it may not match the audio quality of traditional headphones or earbuds. Bone conduction technology prioritizes situational awareness over audio fidelity. While the sound may not be as immersive or bass-heavy, it still provides a decent listening experience, especially for outdoor activities.
Q: Can I use bone conduction headphones for phone calls?
A: Yes, many bone conduction headphones come with built-in microphones, allowing you to make and receive phone calls. The microphone picks up your voice vibrations through your cheekbones, while the headphones deliver the caller’s voice to your ears. However, it’s important to note that the call quality may vary depending on the specific model and external factors such as background noise.
Q: Are bone conduction headphones comfortable to wear?
A: Bone conduction headphones are generally designed to be lightweight and comfortable. They often feature a wraparound design that securely holds them in place without putting pressure on the ears. However, individual comfort preferences may vary, so it’s advisable to try different models and find the one that fits you best.
Q: Can I use bone conduction headphones with glasses?
A: Yes, bone conduction headphones can be used with glasses. Since they don’t cover or enter the ear canal, there is no interference with the placement of glasses. The headphones rest on the cheekbones, allowing you to wear them comfortably with your glasses.
Q: Can I use bone conduction headphones with hearing aids?
A: Bone conduction headphones can be compatible with certain types of hearing aids. However, it’s recommended to consult with your audiologist or hearing aid provider to determine if bone conduction headphones are suitable for your specific hearing aid model and individual needs. They can provide guidance on compatibility and any potential considerations.
Read More: How to Find Downloads on iPhone or iPad
Hope this article helps you in finding the best bone conduction headphone of 2023. If you have any queries left, let us know in the comments.
Enjoy listening!!!