Classic Wired Earphones
Features
These are a classic option for you to begin with. They are functional, easily compatible with most devices and have no need for bulky chargers. A great option in wired headphones are the JVC Gummy Earbuds, which come in different colors and make for great stocking stuffers. A favorite series I remember listening to while using these were the Neapolitan Quartet by Elena Ferrante, because I wanted to take zero breaks to charge my earphones.
Ups & Downs
These earphones are an excellent option in terms of return on investment, since they last for the longest time. However, they do suffer from the disadvantage of the need to maintain proximity to your device, which means frequent interruptions if you are attempting to multi-task. Many phones today also come with their own earphones and customized jacks, making a converter a must in order for these to be compatible.
Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Features
The ability to block out noise is something you don’t realize you need in your life until you get it, and then there is no going back. These should be the ones you use when you want an immersive listening experience. Most of these also come with detachable wires that turn them into wired headphones. VOILA! A great option for these are Beats by Dre and those by Sony which come in a variety of options and price points. These are particularly fantastic for reading works of fantasy like personal favorites, City of Brass by S.A.Chakraborty and The Bird King by Wilson G. Willow.
Ups & Downs
The versatility of these ear phones to be used as wired and wireless is surely a great perk. On the other hand these headphones are bulky, and there is nothing subtle about them. If you, like me, are daring to listen in front of your toddler while they asked you to watch Minnie with them for the 27th time, you will strike out. These are also the ones with less pricing options as compared to the other two earphones.
Wireless Ear pods
Features
These are a game changer in terms of accessibility to your audiobooks. The wireless headphones establish connectivity through bluetooth which has a decent range. You know what that means? No more having to tuck your phone in awkward places to take with you. These are also of a convenient size and are perfect for situations where you don’t want to draw too much attention to your ears. Some great options for these in a reasonable price range are the Echo Buds and classic AirPods. A pricier option are the AirPods Pro, which come with the additional functionality of noise-cancellation. The list of titles I have been able to read because of my ear buds are many including; The Switch by Beth O’ Leary, A Bad Day for Sunshine by Darynda Jones and The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt. My ability to keep listening while accomplishing my to-do list infinitely helped me get through these.
Ups & Downs
The fact that there are a lot of price points makes these a great option. A downside to bluetooth headphones however is that they require charging, so at any given moment you face the possibility of wanting to, no, needing to listen to your audiobook and may not be able to for the next few hours if you forgot to charge them on time.
And the Winner is…
The winner for me are the wireless pods, in particular the Classic Airpods. Their lack of bulk makes them easy to carry with you everywhere, including after a long day when you need to charge your phone, but also want to hear Nadia Miles narrate The Good House to you as you lull yourself into a nightmare-ridden sleep. Even though charging them is a hassle, they do last quite a while, and take up to 2 hours to charge almost completely, making them my choice for the best earphones for audiobooks. What kind of ear phones have you found best for audiobook listening? Maybe you are looking for some tunes to listen to while reading instead? Check out an expansive list here. And maybe you are looking to switch up from audiobooks to ereaders, then check the comprehensive guide here.
