Headphones and speakers let you enjoy music, films, podcasts, games and calls in the way that suits you best. Headphones offer a personal listening experience, while speakers fill a room with sound and are ideal for sharing music, films and gaming audio with others.
Whether you need wireless earbuds for commuting, over-ear headphones for long listening sessions, a portable speaker for travel or a soundbar for clearer TV audio, there are options designed for different uses, rooms and budgets.
Best Selling Headphones & Speakers
Types of Headphones
Over-Ear Headphones
Over-ear headphones have large ear cups that surround the ears rather than pressing against them. They can offer a comfortable fit, strong sound quality and a more immersive listening experience.
Over-ear headphones are a good option for long listening sessions, music, films, gaming and home use. They are usually larger than other styles, but their size allows more room for larger drivers and a fuller sound.
On-Ear Headphones
On-ear headphones sit directly on the ears rather than fully covering them. They are usually smaller and lighter than over-ear models, making them easier to carry for commuting and travel.
On-ear headphones can be a good middle ground if you want a more compact design without moving to earbuds. They may not block as much outside noise as over-ear headphones, but they can still provide a comfortable everyday listening experience.
In-Ear Headphones
In-ear headphones have ear tips that sit inside the ear canal. They are compact, lightweight and can provide a secure fit, making them popular for commuting, exercise and travel.
In-ear headphones can offer good passive noise isolation when the ear tips fit well. They are a practical option if you want headphones that take up little space and stay in place while moving.
Wireless Earbuds
Wireless earbuds are small, cord-free headphones that connect to a phone, laptop or tablet through Bluetooth. They are convenient for music, calls, podcasts and everyday listening.
Most wireless earbuds come with a charging case and are available in in-ear or open-ear designs. They are a practical option if you want a compact, cable-free listening experience.
Open-Ear Headphones
Open-ear headphones sit outside or near the ear rather than sealing it. They allow you to hear some of the sounds around you, which can be useful for walking, running and cycling.
Open-ear designs are available as earbuds, ear pods and bone conduction headphones. They may not offer the same bass depth or isolation as sealed headphones, but they can be more comfortable for some people during long periods of use.
Headphone Features
Noise Cancelling
Noise cancelling headphones use microphones and electronic processing to reduce background sounds such as traffic, engine noise and office chatter. They can be useful for commuting, travelling and working in busy places.
Noise cancelling headphones are available in over-ear, on-ear and earbud designs. Some models also include a transparency mode, which lets you hear more of your surroundings when needed.
View More Noise Cancelling Headphones
Wireless and Bluetooth
Wireless headphones connect to devices without a cable, usually through Bluetooth. They offer freedom of movement and are convenient for commuting, exercise, calls and listening on the move.
Bluetooth headphones are available in many styles, from compact earbuds to full-size over-ear models. Check battery life, charging method and connection stability before buying.
Wired Headphones
Wired headphones connect through a 3.5mm headphone jack, USB or another cable connection. They do not need charging and can offer a stable connection without wireless delay.
Wired headphones are a good option for gaming, podcasting, studio monitoring and situations where audio timing is important. They can also be a useful backup if wireless headphones run out of battery.
Built-In Microphones
Many headphones include a built-in microphone for calls, online meetings and voice assistants. Some models include multiple microphones to help reduce background noise.
For frequent calls, look for headphones with clear voice pickup, easy mute controls and a comfortable fit. A boom microphone can offer clearer voice pickup than a small built-in microphone.
View More Headphones with Built-In Microphone
Headphones for Different Uses
Headphones for Everyday Listening
For everyday music, podcasts and calls, wireless earbuds or on-ear headphones can be a convenient option. They are portable, easy to pair and suitable for use with a phone, tablet or laptop.
If you listen for long periods, over-ear headphones may offer more comfort and a fuller sound.
Headphones for Travel
For travel, noise cancelling headphones can help reduce engine noise and background chatter. Over-ear noise cancelling models can be particularly comfortable on long journeys.
Wireless earbuds are a more compact option if you prefer something lightweight and easy to carry.
Headphones for Gaming
For gaming, look for a headset with a clear microphone, comfortable fit and low-latency connection. A wired headset can offer a stable connection, while a wireless gaming headset can provide more freedom of movement.
Low-latency wireless headphones use a USB dongle or similar connection to reduce audio delay, helping keep game sound and visuals in sync.
Headphones for Podcasting
For podcasting and recording, wired closed-back headphones are often the best choice. They reduce sound leakage into a microphone and provide a stable connection for monitoring your voice.
Closed-back headphones seal the ear cups, helping to block outside noise and prevent audio from escaping during recording.
View More Headphones for Podcasting
Headphones for Good Sound Quality
For high-quality music listening, over-ear headphones can offer a more spacious and immersive sound. Open-back models can create a wider soundstage, while closed-back models provide more isolation and privacy.
Studio headphones are designed to reproduce sound accurately, making them useful for editing, music production and critical listening.
View More Headphones for Best Sound Quality
Types of Speakers
Portable Bluetooth Speakers
A portable Bluetooth speaker is a battery-powered speaker that connects wirelessly to a phone, tablet or laptop. It is a convenient option for music at home, in the garden, on holiday or at a small gathering.
Portable speakers are available in different sizes, from pocket-sized models to larger party speakers. Check battery life, water resistance and charging method before buying.
View More Portable Bluetooth Speakers
Smart Speakers
A smart speaker connects to Wi-Fi and includes a built-in voice assistant. It can play music, answer questions, set timers and control compatible smart home devices.
A smart speaker is a good option if you want hands-free control and easy access to streaming services. Check which voice assistant and music services it supports before buying.
Bookshelf Speakers
Bookshelf speakers are compact speakers designed to sit on a shelf, desk or speaker stands. They can offer a more detailed and spacious sound than a single portable speaker.
Bookshelf speakers are a good option for music, films and desktop listening. Passive models need an amplifier or receiver, while powered models include their own amplifier and can connect directly to a laptop or TV.
Soundbars
A soundbar is a slim speaker designed to sit below or in front of a TV. It can improve dialogue clarity and provide a wider sound than a TV’s built-in speakers.
A soundbar is a good option if you want better TV audio without a complex surround-sound setup. Some models include a separate subwoofer for deeper bass.
Party Speakers
Party speakers are larger portable speakers designed for louder music and outdoor use. They often include bigger batteries, handles, wheels and extra bass.
A party speaker is a good option for gatherings, gardens and events. Check battery life, water resistance and weight if you plan to move it around.
Studio Monitors
Studio monitors are speakers designed to reproduce sound accurately rather than adding extra bass or treble. They are commonly used for music production, podcast editing and mixing.
Studio monitors are usually designed for desk or near-field listening. They can be a good option if you need to hear recordings clearly and accurately.
Speaker Features
Battery Life
Battery life is important for portable and Bluetooth speakers. It determines how long you can listen before needing to recharge the speaker.
A longer battery life is useful for travel, outdoor use and gatherings. Check whether the speaker charges through USB-C and how long it takes to recharge.
Water Resistance
Water resistance can help protect a speaker from splashes, rain and outdoor conditions. It is useful for gardens, beaches, poolside use and camping.
Check the water-resistance rating before buying. A higher rating can offer more protection, but it does not mean the speaker can be submerged unless the manufacturer specifically states this.
Bluetooth Range
Bluetooth range affects how far you can be from a speaker while maintaining a connection. Walls, interference and other wireless devices can affect the range in real-world use.
A Bluetooth speaker is convenient for quick pairing with a phone, tablet or laptop. For multi-room listening or streaming from the internet, a Wi-Fi speaker may be more suitable.
Multi-Room Audio
Multi-room audio lets you play music through compatible speakers in different rooms. It can be useful for creating a connected home audio system.
Wi-Fi smart speakers often support multi-room grouping through a manufacturer’s app. Check that your devices use the same ecosystem before buying.
Voice Assistant Support
A speaker with voice assistant support lets you control music, ask questions and manage compatible smart home devices using your voice. It can be useful in kitchens, living rooms and home offices.
Check which voice assistant the speaker supports and whether it works with the smart home devices you already own.
Speakers for Different Uses
Speakers for Home Listening
For everyday music at home, a smart speaker, Bluetooth speaker or pair of bookshelf speakers can be a good option. The best choice depends on the size of the room and how you want to connect your devices.
Bookshelf speakers can offer a more detailed sound, while smart speakers add voice control and streaming features.
Speakers for TV and Films
For TV and films, a soundbar can improve dialogue clarity and create a wider sound than built-in TV speakers. Some models include a subwoofer for deeper bass.
A soundbar is a simple way to upgrade a living room setup without installing a full surround-sound system.
Speakers for Gaming
For gaming, desktop speakers or a soundbar can provide a more immersive experience than laptop speakers. A 2.1 speaker system includes a subwoofer for deeper bass in games and films.
Check the connection type before buying, as some speakers connect through USB, 3.5mm, Bluetooth or HDMI.
Speakers for Outdoor Use
For gardens, camping and outdoor gatherings, choose a portable Bluetooth speaker with a durable design and long battery life. Water resistance can be useful if the speaker may be exposed to splashes or rain.
A larger party speaker can provide more volume, but it may be heavier to carry.
Speakers for Content Creation
For podcasting, music production and video editing, studio monitors can help you hear recordings accurately. They are designed for detailed listening rather than boosting bass.
A pair of studio monitors can be useful for editing audio on a laptop or desktop, especially when placed at desk level and angled towards the listener.
Choosing the Right Headphones or Speakers
Think About Where You Will Listen
Consider whether you will listen alone, share audio with others or move between locations. Headphones are best for personal listening, while speakers are better for filling a room.
A portable speaker is useful if you want sound that can move around the home or outdoors.
Check the Connection
Check whether you prefer Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB or a wired connection. Bluetooth is convenient for portable devices, while Wi-Fi can support multi-room audio and streaming.
Wired headphones and speakers can offer a stable connection, which can be useful for gaming, recording and studio work.
Check Comfort and Fit
For headphones, consider whether you prefer over-ear, on-ear or in-ear designs. Over-ear headphones can be more comfortable for long sessions, while earbuds are more portable.
For speakers, consider where they will be placed and whether they will fit comfortably on a desk, shelf or TV stand.
Check Battery Life
For wireless headphones and portable speakers, check the battery life and charging method. A longer battery life is useful for travel, commuting and outdoor use.
Earbuds often include a charging case, while over-ear headphones and portable speakers usually charge through USB-C.
Check Sound Quality Needs
Think about whether you want deep bass, clear dialogue, accurate sound or a wide soundstage. Different headphones and speakers are designed with different sound profiles.
For music and films, a speaker system with a subwoofer can provide deeper bass. For podcasting and editing, accurate studio monitors or closed-back headphones can be more useful.
Heaphones & Speakers FAQs
What is the difference between headphones and speakers?
Headphones provide personal audio directly to your ears, while speakers play sound into a room. Headphones are better for private listening, while speakers are better for sharing audio.
What is the difference between over-ear and on-ear headphones?
Over-ear headphones surround the ears with large ear cups, while on-ear headphones sit directly on the ears. Over-ear models are usually more comfortable for long listening sessions.
What are noise cancelling headphones?
Noise cancelling headphones use microphones and electronic processing to reduce background noise. They are useful for commuting, travelling and working in noisy places.
What are open-back headphones?
Open-back headphones have vented ear cups that let air and sound pass through. They can create a wider, more natural sound but leak audio and provide little isolation.
What are closed-back headphones?
Closed-back headphones have sealed ear cups that reduce sound leakage and block more outside noise. They are useful for podcasting, recording and listening in shared spaces.
What is a Bluetooth speaker?
A Bluetooth speaker is a wireless speaker that connects to a phone, tablet or laptop through Bluetooth. It is convenient for portable and everyday listening.
What is a soundbar?
A soundbar is a slim speaker designed to improve TV audio. It sits below or in front of a TV and can provide clearer dialogue and a wider sound than built-in TV speakers.
What is a smart speaker?
A smart speaker connects to Wi-Fi and includes a voice assistant. It can play music, answer questions and control compatible smart home devices.
What are bookshelf speakers?
Bookshelf speakers are compact speakers designed for shelves, desks or speaker stands. They can offer a more detailed sound than a single portable speaker.
What are studio monitors?
Studio monitors are speakers designed to reproduce sound accurately. They are commonly used for music production, podcast editing and mixing.
Should I choose headphones or speakers?
Choose headphones if you want private listening, focus or portability. Choose speakers if you want to share music, films or games with others or fill a room with sound.