Best retractable headphones
Branded headphones are becoming more expensive, primarily because of the increased demand and addition of new features. The average price of headphones has increased nearly 20% this year, while the demand grew by 7%. Today, a number of options is available, such as retractable headphones, wireless bluetooth headphones and wireless earbuds. Typically these gadgets cost may range from a few bucks to thousands of dollars. Retractable headphones have been in fashion for a long time and they’ll continue to inspire the coming generations. However, due to daily utility and a number of suitable features, you need to choose the right product that is both flexible and economic. Hence, we have compiled a list of some of the most popular and reliable retractable headphones, based on their utility, key features and, of course, price. Let’s get started with finding the perfect neckband headphones for you.
1: LG Tone Style HBS-SL5 Best Wireless Neckband Headphones
The minimalist yet stylish look of LG HBS-SL5 is among the most popular neckband headphones, which is perfect for leisure and work. These retractable wireless earbuds have top-quality drivers to ensure an amazing sound quality and listening experience at all sound levels. The overall design is lightweight and comfortable for the users, and is available on Amazon at the price of $90.
The inbuilt battery provides a reliable and good battery life, with music time of up to 8 hours. At the same time, these earbuds have quick charging speed, with 10 – 12 minutes of charging providing up to 3 hours of music time. The earbuds are, of course, retractable, making it easier to store and carry during trips. The design of this product provides a unique blend of metal and plastic, making it durable and trendy.
While these headphones lack built-in assistance feature, it comes with a vibrating mechanism which alerts users regarding incoming phone calls and messages.
Based on our analysis of this device, we came up with the following pros and cons.
Pros
1) Amazing audio quality for music and incoming call.
2) Sleek, comfortable and trendy design.
3) Retractable earbuds.
4) Decent battery life.
5) Fast charging speed.
6) Economic price bracket.
Cons
1) No external speaker.
2) Built-in voice Google assistant is not available.
Check Price On Amazon2: Amorno Foldable Wireless earbuds/ Neckband Headset
Amorno neckband headphones come in a flashy design to show-off your fashion sense during outdoor listening. Get rid of wired connection with this auto-retractable wireless headphones. The ear tips are designed specifically to provide comfort to your ear and reliable sound quality during longer listening sessions. It comes with CVC 6.0 active noise cancelation technology, and provides sufficient proofing of ambient noise. Overall, it may be regarded as one of the best neckband headphones if someone is on a tight budget, though clear sound may not be as good as top-of-the-line other headphones.
The wireless connection of these neckband earbuds allows connectivity up to the range of 10 meters with adequate frequency response. The built in microphone is dependable for routine usage and recordings as well. Though it does not offer a longer battery life, 10 hours of music listening time should be enough for most people. It is not a snug fit neckband as some expensive best neckband headphones, it offers a flexible neckband that won’t need adjusting time after time during physical activities.
Following are some of the defining pros and cons of this earbud.
Pros
1) Comfortable and stylish design.
2) One of the most reliable gadget among the list of best neckband headphones.
3) Easily portable due to lightweight.
4) Provides a quality sound experience.
Cons
1) Fast charging is not supported. It takes up to 3.5 hours to charge.
2) Though noise cancellation is adequate when listening, the mic don’t reduce ambient noise efficiently.
3) The charging wire is thin and prone to breaking.
Check Price On Amazon3: Bluenin BlueWave Pro 1 Bluetooth Headphones
This 2-in-1 may be the best neckband for you if you want to take your listening experience to a next level, as you can switch between headphones and speakers with just one button. Again, it is also among the best neckband earbuds in budget category. Though it is not heavy, it may still be bit bulky for the liking of some people. The noise cancellation is not among the defining features of this gadget, but it does enough to block heavy noises, especially if you are working outside.
Bluenin BlueWave Pro 1 comes with dual-battery to provide you enough back up if you like to listen for longer. The wireless technology is reliable for routine use. It is IPX4 waterproof and sweatproof, which means it could be ideal for outdoor sports and working during summers.
Overall, following are some of the main pros and cons of this product.
Pros
1) 2-in-1 feature allows you to easily switch between headphones and speakers.
2) Sound and bass quality is reliable for listeners.
3) The wireless neckband is flexible and reliable during outdoors.
Cons
1) Noise cancellation is not as good as claimed by the manufacturer.
2) Some users have complained about mic after few months of use.
Check Price On Amazon4: BearTwo SX-990 Wireless Neckband Earphones
BearTwo SX-990 neckband headphones offer a sleek and innovative design to play music wireless and with style. The ear tips come in three different sizes to provide you the perfect fit, and the flexibility to use during both work and leisure. The high bass is also perfect for workouts.
The easily foldable design and a brilliant cable management system means it is easier to carry. You may take out magnetic earbuds hassle-free as and when required to go completely wireless. This gadget has been regarded as one of the best neckband bluetooth headphones that is perfect for both gaming and listening to music. You can use this headphone for smartphones, PCs and even gaming consoles to get an extended periods of a reliable sound coverage.
Battery life is another defining feature of these neckband headphones. 16 hour battery life to listen to your favorite music or nearly 18 hour battery life on phone calls is ideal, especially when this device comes under the economic price category. Auto answer phone calls on the go with the wireless nature of these headphones.
However, some users have found its bass to be too high for their music taste but it can be a subjective matter. So, be sure of your preference in this regard while buying these headphones.
Overall, following are major pros and cons of these neckband headphones.
Pros
1) Dependable battery life of up to 18 hours.
2) Active noise cancellation.
3) Easy portability.
4) Economical price bracket.
Cons
1) Strong bass may not suit some users.
2) The build quality is not so high.
Check Price On Amazon5: Exfit BCS-700 Wireless Neckband Headphones
With IPX4 water resistance, audio transparency feature to balance office chatter and music, gesture controls to answer phone calls, and 8mm high sound quality speakers, Exfit BCS-700 may be among some of the best neckband headphones currently available in economical price range. These retractable neckband earbuds may also be considered for the durability they have to offer, especially during jogging or other outdoor activities.
These neckband headphones have 3 built-in EQ modes; normal, bass and treble, allowing you to choose the kind of sound and music you like better. Another defining feature may be the absolute attention to detail in its design and programming, making it a brilliant choice for those who love their gadgets.
These neckband headphones are ideal for someone looking for open ear audio system, though the design may be too bulky for the liking of some users. Battery life is reasonable with nearly 8 hours of music time, and the neckband headphones are available in three different colors: silver, black and blue. These neckband earbuds have two built-in microphones, allowing for a reliable user experience.
The pros and cons of these retractable earbuds may be summarized as following:
Pros
1) The choice of three EQ modes.
2) Transparency mode.
3) Water resistance.
4) High audio quality.
Pros
1) Bulky and heavy.
2) Battery life is not very competitive.
3) Average retraction mechanism.
Check Price On AmazonBuying Guide for Best Neckband Headphones
Headphones and earbuds come in various sizes, colors, and, more importantly, with a range of features. The price may also differ significantly among brands. So, which earbud should you buy and how to choose it? For someone who really value the audio they get, this could be a very important decision to make, one where you don’t want to get things wrong. Here is a brief guide related to things you need to consider when buying your next headphones.
Wired Vs Wireless
Probably the first thing you need to consider is whether you want to buy traditional wired headphones or modern wireless earphones. Both have certain pros (and cons) and it would depend entirely upon your preference and usage needs. Let’s briefly look at what both kinds have to offer.
Wired headphones are more traditional that need wires to connect to an outlet, such as your smartphone or PC. They are generally considered to provide better audio experience, and don’t require charging. Use them for an long as you want. Also, there is no fear of overlapping or losing frequencies, as it may sometimes happen in case of infrared or bluetooth headphones. However, carrying them could be an issue, as they don’t offer optimal portability. Wired headphones are mostly bulky and heavier. Tangled wires present another challenge, and, at times, wires could be too fragile for casual use.
On the other hand, wireless audio devices use infrared, radio or bluetooth technology, though bluetooth headphones are most popular. Major benefits of bluetooth headphones may include, smaller size, better portability, and connection with almost any modern device (such as PC, smartphone, car, TV). Latest bluetooth audio output devices come in the form of magnetic earbuds, that have high sound quality and firm support for your ears. However, they run on batteries which need to be charged. Moreover, you need to be in close proximity to ensure lag-free audio experience.
Choosing the Earbuds
Earbuds are the latest and the smallest form at present. Retractable earbuds are also easily available in the market. Earbuds have a small ear unit that offers better fit for all ears. Most earbuds also offer reliable noise cancellation, and overall a very comfortable sound experience. They are easiest to carry around, and may last 8-20 hours of music time. However, you still need to charge them regularly, and, due to smaller size, they are easier to be lost. Recently, constant use of an earbud is also linked to increased ear infections. Some brands use bio cellulose diaphragm to minimize these risks.
Overall, you may need to consider the following factors when choosing the best neckband headphones or retractable earbuds for you.
1) Be sure whether you need a wired gadget or a wireless one.
2) Se yourself a budget or a price range.
3) Decide whether or not you need noise cancelling feature.
4) Understand your scope of usage, i.e. office, leisure, and/or sports.
5) Choose a specific brand, only if you are brand conscious.
6) Try getting one with a reasonable warranty period.
7) If going for wireless, ascertain your battery life and talking time needs. You need good battery coverage.
8) Analyze the type of speakers and microphone you’d prefer.
9) Choose the style and color that best suits your personality.
10) Based on your requirements, decide whether your wireless neckband needs to have certain features, such as voice transparency.
Using the above points, you will be in a much better position to choose best headphones or earbuds for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s briefly look at some of the FAQs now.
Which is better, wired or wireless?
It entirely depends upon your lifestyle and usage. Branded wired neckband earphones offer more professional experience without having to worry about charging, but limit portability and could be heavy. On the other hand, wireless bluetooth earbuds allow the comfort of portability and look trendy. But their prolonged use could be heavy on your ear. In short, buy a wireless earbud for routine usage, on-the-go calls and outdoor usage, and get yourself a good wired audio output device for high quality sound experience. You may need two devices to fulfill all your needs.
Are there any benefits to using in ear fit earphones?
In ear or canal neckband earphones offer certain benefits. They are better when it comes to noise cancellation. These neckband earphones are also liked for their better portability. They also offer better fit for your ear, especially during outdoor physical activities. However, make sure to pick an in ear fit with the right size, as their size is often non-adjustable.
What kind of headphones are best for outdoor sports?
A pair of neckband headphones and earbuds could work, as long as they suit. Your preference should be a neckband device that is light-weight, and provides best fit for your ears. Do not go for noise cancelling headphones or earbuds, as you need to be able to hear certain sounds in your surroundings, such as approaching vehicles if jogging on roadside. A great pair of neckband headphones will have all your required features.
What kind of headphones should I buy for work?
It depends on the kind of work you do. Go for over the head neckband headphones with noise cancelling feature, if you want to filter all surrounding noises and, at the same time, want others to know that you are using headphones, i.e. you are not ignoring them while they gossip. On the other hand, you may go for neckband headphones with sound transparency feature if you wish to keep the right balance between music and office chatter. Make sure your neckband wireless earbuds have a reliable microphone for auto answer calls.
Is there something special I need to consider when buying headphones for kids?
Some brands design specific products for the kids. These headphones limit volume to not let kids hear very loud music. Small-sized over the head headphones could be ideal. Don’t go for retractable or fragile headphones, as kids may break them. Also, earbuds may not be appropriate as kids tend to put things in mouth.
What should be the ideal balance between cost and overall quality?
Ideally, you should conduct a cost-benefit analysis based on your requirements. Unless you are a professional with work-related requirements, you should not be spending hundreds of bucks on headphones. At the same time, buying low quality headphones for cheap, say $15, may mean you will again need to buy another device in a couple of months, as you will be compromising on build quality and your listening experience. Spending less than $100 on headphones that fulfill all your requirements, such as voice cancelling and seamless wireless connectivity, should be the right approach here.