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Buying guide: headphones and earphones

Choosing headphones or earphones mainly comes down to driver size, which shapes bass response and available volume. Budget then narrows down what the market offers at each price level.

What to check

Sound quality This criterion is based on driver size, which influences bass response and available volume: the larger it is, the richer and more powerful the sound can be. Across thirty listings reviewed, sizes range from 8.6 mm for the lowest ranked models on this criterion to 50 mm for the highest ranked, with a median of 28 mm. A high score therefore points to a large driver, to be weighed against the intended use: a fuller sound for music listening or a lighter build for everyday carrying. Market median: 28 mm
Driver size This criterion directly measures driver size, the component that turns electrical signal into sound: the larger it is, the more bass and power it can deliver. Benchmarks across thirty listings range from 10 mm for the smallest to 50 mm for the largest, with a median of 32 mm. This criterion complements sound quality and helps check whether the stated size matches what the rest of the market offers. Market median: 32 mm
Comfort and intended use Form factor plays a role that sound criteria do not capture: over ear headphones suit extended listening at home, while in ear earphones suit travel and daily commuting better. It is also worth checking compatibility with devices already owned, along with the fit or adjustment method offered. Simple upkeep, such as regularly cleaning tips or ear pads, keeps comfort intact without affecting the product’s sound criteria.

Benchmarks based on 30 recent market listings, collected on 2 October 2026.

What you get for each budget

Under €100

At this price level, driver sizes mostly sit below the market median, which suits occasional or everyday carrying use.

€100 to €280

This range brings together products whose driver sizes approach or reach the observed median, offering a good balance between sound and price.

Over €280

Beyond this range, driver sizes come closest to the best benchmarks recorded on the market.

Frequent mistakes

Choosing based on looks alone while overlooking driver size, which still shapes sound output.
Dismissing the driver criterion as a duplicate of sound quality, when it actually adds a separate measurement.
Forgetting to check the product’s form factor against the intended use, whether on the move or at home.
Comparing scores without factoring in price range, since the market spreads its best driver sizes across every budget.

Models in this category

Best rated first, among those our merchants offer.

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