We all like to spend some time listening to our favorite music, especially while commuting or taking a break from our work or study sessions. We usually turn to our ear pods or Bluetooth headphones to enjoy immersive audio. Depending on our comfort levels and preference, we either prefer in-ear devices such as ear pods, or over-the-ear and snug Bluetooth headphones. This also raises a dilemma while shopping for audio devices: should you buy ear pods or rely on Bluetooth headphones to truly enjoy music?
The answer to this question depends largely on your choice. Some of us like to buy bluetooth headphones, as there are few chances of the headphones slipping and falling down. Moreover, you can buy Bluetooth headphones for less than ₹1,000, as numerous brands offer Bluetooth headphones in the market. On the other hand, ear pods provide greater convenience, as they are lightweight, and you don’t have to remove them often. You can also customise ear pods and purchase models that fit perfectly, minimising the chances of slippage. These models are non-intrusive, which is their biggest selling point.
To rid you of this conundrum, we take a deep dive into the world of audio wearables and list the advantages and disadvantages of ear pods and Bluetooth headphones.
Advantages of Ear Pods
Also termed ‘truly wireless earbuds’, ear pods do not come with messy, tangled wires. The terminology isn’t explicit; Apple manufactures EarPods, which are different from the more popular AirPods. EarPods come with wires; however, the term ‘ear pods’ also refers to wireless earbuds. These wireless earbuds extend the following advantages.
Lightweight and non-intrusive
If you prioritise convenience, you should invest in ear pods, as these are lightweight and non-intrusive. As these are small and compact, you can place them in your ears and go about your work. Furthermore, several ear pods come with internal mics, and you can answer calls with a simple tap.
Ideal for jogging and other exercises
As ear pods don’t come with wires or cords, you can pair them with your smartphone, go on a jog or wear them while working out. Additionally, you can wear them while riding a bicycle with your helmet on, which isn’t possible with Bluetooth headphones.
Portability and ease of charging
Truly wireless earbuds are more convenient and portable than headphones. If you travel often, or spend a considerable amount of time outdoors, you would be better off with truly wireless earbuds. You can also store them away easily as these earbuds are compact. Furthermore, ear pods come with charging cases; when you are in class or working, you can place them in the charging case to charge them up.
You can then use them again while commuting.
Disadvantages of Ear Pods
Poor sound quality
Ear pods inherently come with smaller drivers compared to Bluetooth headphones. Compared to 40mm drivers of Bluetooth headphones, ear pods house 8-13mm drivers. Thus, wireless headphones provide better sound quality.
Shorter battery life
Wireless headphones also come with larger built-in batteries compared to TWS earbuds. If you forget your charging case, these air pods offer limited battery life, ranging from 3-6 hours on average. However, Bluetooth headphones can remain functional for up to 15 hours.
Advantages of Bluetooth Headphones
Bluetooth headphones are wireless headphones that can be wirelessly paired with your smartphone and other devices. These are typically on-ear headphones and come with their own set of pros and cons. Following are some of the advantages of purchasing Bluetooth headphones.
Better audio quality
For the same price, the audio quality of Bluetooth headphones is superior to that of ear pods. As previously mentioned, headphones come with larger drivers. Furthermore, you will find Bluetooth headphones that come with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), providing better noise isolation and audio quality.
Longer battery life
Another advantage of purchasing wireless headphones is less frequent charging interludes. Unlike ear pods, Bluetooth headphones come with long-lasting batteries. However, you can quickly charge the ear pods by placing them in their charging case.
Greater comfort
While ear pods are compact and convenient to carry, they tend to slip out of the ear with prolonged use and may even cause mild pain when used over an extended period. However, Bluetooth headphones provide greater comfort, as they come with high-quality cushions that gently rest over the ears. Because of the headband, they also stay in place and do not easily slip and fall down.
Disadvantages of Bluetooth Headphones
Can get bulky
Bluetooth headphones tend to get bulky, especially when you wear them while working out. Thus, for your workout sessions, it is ideal to wear ear pods, which sit snugly in your ears.
Inconvenient to carry
It is much easier to put ear pods away in their charging case than wireless headphones. While certain models come with foldable designs, carrying Bluetooth headphones can be inconvenient.
These are some of the pros and cons of ear pods and Bluetooth headphones. Before choosing an audio device, remember to take your requirements and preferences into consideration.
