🎧Get ready for school: the best headphones for kids for 2020

Headphones are great because they provide a wide range of possibilities. With their help, you can have a pleasant and useful time without disturbing others. However, not all gadgets are of the same quality and useful, some are not just outright rubbish, but can also harm a child. In this regard, the editors of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" have prepared for you a review of the best children's headphones, which will help you prepare for the new school year.

Headphones - what are they

In accordance with the design features, the following types of audio devices are distinguished:

• Earbuds are in-ear headphones that attach by placing a membrane on the outside of the ear. Due to its small size, as well as the lack of sound insulation, this device does not transmit well enough all frequencies audible to the human ear;
• Gags are also known as "droplets" or "vacuum tubes". Placed directly into the ear canal;
• Swivel - a device that has two positions - "comfort", designed for quiet rooms with the ability to control what is happening around, and "quality", designed for conversation and full listening to music;
• Full-size - on-ear headphones, the membranes of which are pressed to the ears using a special attachment in such a way that they completely cover the auricle. They are divided into open devices (letting external noise through special holes, due to which the sound coming from the membranes is perceived as more natural and with a wider sound stage, but they do not reproduce low frequencies well), closed (noise canceling devices that provide maximum sound insulation and high sound quality, but from - due to the tight fit of the internal elements, the hearing gets tired faster and there is discomfort from the lack of air circulation) and half-open / half-closed type (equipped with small external holes with which the positive sides of closed and open devices are combined);
• Custom - a type of vacuum intracanal devices, made according to an individually cast mold of the external auditory canal and provide maximum comfort.

How to choose the right device

Next, we will consider the main selection criteria.

Appointment

There are studio (monitor) and consumer gadgets. The former are distinguished by high and balanced sound quality, and therefore are designed for use in recording studios. Monitor devices are equipped with sound detail, which allows the sound engineer to hear and correct even the smallest defects.For listening to music in a domestic environment, such detailing is not only unnecessary, but it can cause uncomfortable sensations, as it detects all extraneous, as well as background noises, which are especially pronounced on old recordings.

Consumer devices are intended for non-professionals and are deliberately unbalanced in frequencies to low, medium and high. Also, in consumer models, much attention is paid to the external design. Often gadgets act not only as a tool for listening to records of various kinds, but also as an accessory that complements the general style or means of self-expression.

Signal transmission method

By the method of signal transmission, wired and wireless devices are distinguished.

Wired cables are connected to the head unit using a cable, which also acts as an antenna, which is necessary for the built-in FM radio to function.

Wireless devices receive a signal from the main source through a radio channel or infrared channel (IR). The advantage of wireless gadgets is that they provide freedom of action and movement within the range of the signal, which can be digital (Bluetooth technology) or analog. The digital signal is more advanced because it does not degrade the sound quality during transmission. The range of action of some models can reach 30 meters, which allows you to freely move away from the main source (for example, a computer). The best wireless designs that deliver high sound quality have only one drawback - high cost.

Number of channels

By the number of channels, the devices are divided into:

• stereophonic - the most common modification, in which the signal is transmitted through separate channels to two sound emitters;
• monophonic - the signal is sent to the sound emitters through one combined channel, due to which an identical sound is formed at the output;
• multichannel - equipped with more than one sound emitter for each ear with a separate channel. This allows for surround sound and channel separation according to their frequency characteristics.

Mount type

Headband gadgets have a vertical bow that connects two large membranes.

In some designs, the bow is located on the back of the head, however, according to buyers, such devices are not always convenient, since the main burden of the design falls on the ears, which can cause significant inconvenience during prolonged listening.

Models with earloops or clips attach directly to the auricle.

But devices like in-ear and in-ear devices do not have fasteners at all.

Emitter design

According to the structure of the emitter, the following models can be found on the market:

1. Dynamic - the technology is based on the most common method - electrodynamic signal conversion. In fact, the earphone acts as a radiator to which a coil of wire is attached, which is in the force field of a permanent magnet. The dynamic converter has a certain number of disadvantages and limitations, but as production technologies are constantly being improved, modern devices demonstrate high sound quality.
2. With a balanced armature - the basis is an element in the form of a U-shaped armature made of a ferromagnetic alloy. Such gadgets are often called "armature" in accordance with the English word "armature", which means "anchor".
3. Electrostatic - they function due to a thin membrane that is located between two electrodes. Such models are characterized by high sensitivity and fidelity, but they have a high price and do not always fit the standard connector, and therefore need an adapter.
4. Planar / planar-magnetic - equipped with a thin film membrane with metal conductive paths. And this whole vibrating structure is located in a grid of bar magnets.Such devices are characterized by high detail, and according to the shape of the membrane they are divided into:

• isodynamic - have bar permanent magnets;
• orthodynamic - they have plane-cylindrical permanent magnets, which are more compact.

Device weight

Since the headphones are directly on the head during operation, the weight is of great importance. And the smaller it is, the more comfortable and safe it will be to use the device.

Each type of audio gadget belongs to a specific weight category. Inserts weigh from 5 to 30 g, overhead - from 40 to 100 g, monitor - from 150 to 300 g.

Cable connection method

According to the method of connecting the wires, there are two-sided and one-sided devices. For double-sided, the cable is fed separately to each of the membranes, and in one-sided - only to one of them, since the second is connected from the first with a wire that is hidden in the bow or rim.

For full-size devices of the standard version, the cable size is from 1 to 3 meters, some structures can have a cord up to 7 meters long. To work with portable equipment, a 1 meter wire is enough. The player also does not need a long cable - about 80-100 cm is enough for a child.

On some models, the cable may have a detachable function that allows you to replace the old cord with a new one in the event of a break. Also, some manufacturers produce wireless devices with the ability to connect to a sound source using a wire.

The fabric braid of the wire acts as a protective layer, due to which the cable is frost-resistant and durable. Also, the fabric does not allow the formation of kinks and creases, such a wire is less twisted and tangled.

Resistance

By resistance, low-resistance and high-resistance units are distinguished. Low-resistance ones have resistance up to 100 Ohm, high-resistance ones - more than 100 Ohms. It should be remembered that devices with a resistance of 16-32 Ohm, but not higher than 50 Ohm, are suitable for portable devices. The fact is that with a higher resistance, the technician will not be able to provide the required sound volume and will need to connect a special amplifier.

Connectors

Types of connectors found in headphones:

• Jack - 6.3 mm;
• Mini-jack - 3.5 mm;
• Mini-jack - 2.5 mm;
• USB - connector for connecting a headset to a laptop;
• Lightning is a special connector for connecting an audio device to a tablet or smartphone, which converts the incoming signal and improves sound quality. Most commonly used in Apple products.

The shape of the connector also varies. For connecting to portable equipment, the L-shaped plug is best suited, which provides a tighter fit to the main device and does not increase the overall dimensions, as is often the case with a straight plug.

Diaphragm diameter

As a general rule, the larger the diaphragm, the better the low frequency components of the sound are reproduced.

Full-size devices with diaphragms of 30 mm and larger provide depth and richness of sound.

But the earbuds, due to their small size, are equipped with membranes with a diameter of 9 to 12 mm, and therefore are significantly limited in the reproduction of the bass range.

Power type

AA / AAA-batteries, in the format of which both batteries and accumulators are produced. Easy to change to new, similar ones. Their minus is a short service life.

But Li-lon batteries have significant capacity and light weight. The disadvantages include the fact that it will not be so easy to pick up a new one if necessary. Each manufacturer completes its products with its own battery format.

Microphone

The presence of a built-in microphone allows you to use headphones for talking on the phone. Many high-quality models are equipped with a small remote control with which control is carried out - you can answer incoming calls, increase or decrease the volume, switch tracks in the playlist.

The number of microphones varies.In some multifunctional devices, in addition to the main microphone, there may be one or two additional ones that increase the received signal level and increase noise reduction.

Ear cushions

Ear cushions are the part of the headphones that directly contacts the auricle, either adjacent to it or inserted into the ear canal. Most models provide the ability to replace worn out ear pads with new ones.

In full-size multifunctional units, ear pads are most often made from eco-leather or leatherette, the most expensive models use genuine leather, which increases the already considerable cost. Therefore, it is cheaper to replace individual elements than to purchase new audio equipment.

In the ear pads, the ear pads are presented in the form of attachments that are put on the membranes. Silicone material is used for their production. Silicone tips are very easy to change, if necessary, to other ones - more elastic or of suitable size. The change often comes with headphones.

Modes

Surround is a special mode of spatial music reproduction, which is similar to a multi-channel speaker system. Such devices can be used when watching home theater.

Call holding / waiting - support of this function by the headset makes it possible to leave the interlocutor in the "waiting" mode when receiving a call on a bridged line. To work, the mobile phone must support the “hands-free” or Bluetooth profile.

Last number redial - makes a second call to the last dialed number, which is convenient in cases when you need to call a subscriber whose phone is busy or does not answer. The function must be supported by a smartphone to work correctly.

Voice dialing is carried out by pronouncing a key word, after which the device independently finds the number of the desired subscriber in the phone book and makes a call, but only if this function is supported by a mobile phone.

Quiet mode - is to temporarily turn off the microphone.

Adjusting the volume - the function turns on automatically, without user intervention. The headset independently increases the volume as soon as the need arises.

What to look for

In order to avoid mistakes when choosing, you should pay attention to the presence of the following parameters, which may be useful:

• Digital Signal Processor (DSP) - is a signal processor that performs digital processing of an audio signal, thereby improving the quality of both transmitted and received signals;
• Radio - a Bluetooth headset equipped with a built-in radio receiver allows receiving radio broadcasts in the FM range;
• Near Field Communication (NFC) - this function provides wireless communication for the exchange of data between two devices that are no further than 10 cm from each other. And to connect the headset and the phone, you just need to bring it to each other;
• Automatic pairing - the headset connects to various gadgets without having to enter a pin code;
• Protection from water - provided by a waterproof case, making the device safe to use during sports or if exposed to rain;
• IPhone support - makes it possible to use the headset with Apple products;
• Apt-X - provides high-quality sound when transmitting audio through the Bluetooth profile;
• Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) - high-quality stereo signal is transmitted to the headset using this profile. Thus, when using a stereo system equipped with Bluetooth and a headset with A2DP support, you can listen to music from the memory of the connected storage medium;
• Audio Video Remote Control Profile (AVRCP) - with this profile, the basic phone functionality is available for control via a headset. It also allows you to see on the display the number (or name stored in the memory) of the caller, and when music is playing, the name of the song.

Advantages and disadvantages of various models

Advantages of overhead models:

Disadvantages:

Advantages of earbuds:

Disadvantages:

Vacuum advantages:

Disadvantages:

Advantages of monitor gadgets:

Disadvantages:

Main technical characteristics

room	Specifications	Recommendations
1	Material	The outer part of the case can be made of a variety of materials - plastic, aluminum, ceramics, metal alloys.
2	Design	There are in-ear (inserts, plugs, vacuum), plug-in (inserts, buttons), rotary, overhead and full-size devices.
3	Frequency response	Determines the sound quality and is related to the diaphragm diameter. The average value of this indicator varies from 18 Hz to 20 kHz. Professional gadgets are characterized by a frequency range of 5 Hz to 60 kHz. The widest frequency range is between 3 Hz and 120 kHz and is found in studio technology.
4	Sensitivity	Affects the sound volume and to a certain extent depends on the core material installed in the structure. The best indicators have neodymium cores. Standard models provide at least 100 dB of sound. However, 85 dB of volume will be sufficient for children's hearing. DSP loudness limiting refers to the fact that the electronics monitors and controls the volume level, acting on the limiting if the sound exceeds a safe level.
5	Impedance	Impedance refers to electrical resistance. Most of the models on the market have a resistance of 30 ohms. More powerful technology requires the audio source to have a higher output voltage. Therefore, they are not able to function at full power when connected to portable equipment with low-voltage power.
6	Maximum power	The input power determines the volume of the sound.
7	Distortion level	It is measured in percentage and the higher the number, the better the sound quality. Within frequencies from 100 Hz to 2 kHz, 1% distortion is acceptable, and for frequencies below 100 Hz, 10% is acceptable.
8	How much is	Headphones vary in price depending on functionality. The budget model will cost 1300 rubles, for a multifunctional device you will have to pay at least 3000 rubles.

Rating of quality models for 2020

COLOUD-C34

Closed-back headphones with electrodynamic signal conversion. They are capable of reproducing frequencies in the range from 20 to 20,000 Hz. The sensitivity is 114 dB. Impedance 32 ohms. The maximum power is 20 mW. Membrane diameter - 40 mm. The design is fixed on the head with a headband. A standard 3.5 mm mini jack will allow you to connect the device to most representatives of portable equipment. Suitable for children over 9 years old.

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HARPER Kids HB-202

Dynamic type bluetooth headphones. They reproduce frequencies in the range from 20 to 20,000 Hz. The impedance is 32 ohms. The device supports Bluetooth version 3.0, the range of which is up to 10 meters. Equipped with its own Li-Ion, charging lasts for 2.5 hours. Suitable for children from 10 years old.

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JBL-JR300

A model with a closed acoustic design and a dynamic-type emitter design. Reproduces frequencies in the range from 20 to 20,000 Hz. The sensitivity is 85 dB. Impedance 32 ohms. The weight of the device is 108 g. The diameter of the membrane is 32 mm, the mount is presented in the form of a headband. The standard connector is a 3.5 mm mini jack. The length of the cord is 1 m, which is sufficient for a child. The cord is neither stretched nor loose, posing a risk of injury. The model is presented in two variations - blue and red. Suitable for children from 8 years old.

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Snuggly raascals

Budget children's device, presented in three variations - monster, unicorn, kitten. Made from high quality soft fleece, which can be washed after removing the inner parts. Speaker volume is limited to 85 dB. The construction weighs only 50 g, which makes it suitable for long-term wearing during the day. They have a standard 3.5 mm mini jack, and therefore can be connected to most portable devices. The cable length is 1.5 m.

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JVC HA-KD5

Closed-back dynamic headphones that reproduce frequencies in the range of 15 - 23000 Hz. The sensitivity is 85 dB, the impedance is 33 ohms. The maximum power is 200 mW. The weight of the device is 122 g. The diameter of the membrane is 30.8 mm. Attached to the head with a headband. The connector is presented in the mini jack format 3.5 mm. Cord length - 80 cm. The model comes in several colors - yellow-blue, yellow-red, pink-purple and violet-green. Designed for children from 4 years old.

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LilGadgets Connect + for children

The device has a dynamic principle of operation with an interval of reproducible frequencies from 20 to 20,000 Hz and a sensitivity of 93 dB. The impedance is 30 ohms. The membrane diameter is 40 mm. Mount type - headband. The connector is a mini jack with a size of 3.5 mm straight. The model is produced in four color categories - blue, green, pink and lilac. The body is made of matte plastic. Designed for children from 2 years old.

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Onanoff BuddyPhones Explore

Dynamic earphones made of high-tech wear-resistant material with a frequency range of 20 - 20,000 Hz and a sensitivity of 85 dB. The impedance is 32 ohms. The membrane diameter is 30 mm. The connector has a standard format - a 3.5 mm mini jack. Cord length - 80 cm. The model is presented in five design options, so you can choose a device that reflects the character and inclinations of the child. Suitable for children from 3 years of age.

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JBL-JR300BT

Bluetooth headphones with a dynamic principle of operation, which can be taken with you to school or for a walk, as the device lasts 12 hours without recharging. They function in the reproducible frequency range from 20 to 20,000 Hz. Sensitivity - 85 dB. The impedance is 30 ohms. Weight - 113 g. Attached with a headband. The model is presented in blue, green, lilac and blue colors.

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LilGadgets Untangled Pro for children

Closed-back Bluetooth headphones with a microphone using the electrodynamic principle of sound conversion. They reproduce frequencies in the range from 20 to 20,000 Hz. The sensitivity of the device is 93 dB, the impedance is 30 Ohm. The model is presented in four colors - green, white, pink and black, which makes it possible to choose the desired design for both a boy and a girl. The membrane diameter is 40 mm. The device is fixed to the head using a headband. The connector is a mini jack 3.5 mm in size. The battery capacity is 180 mA / h.

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Urbanears zinken

Reinforcing headphones with headband. The range of reproducible frequencies is from 20 to 20,000 Hz, the sensitivity is 98 dB. The impedance is 85 ohms. Maximum power 50 mW. Diaphragm diameter 40 mm. The straight plug is a 3.5 mm mini jack. The cable is 1.2 m long, with a 3.5 mm stereo plug on one end and a 6.3 mm jack on the other end. Suitable for teenagers.

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The benefits and harms of headphones

Vacuum devices partially block out environmental noise due to tight contact with the ear canal, which is a plus and a minus at the same time. Plus - this technology provides good noise isolation, so you can fully concentrate on listening and immerse yourself in the sound atmosphere. Minus - when using such a gadget on the street or in other public places, you can miss a signal that warns of danger or serves as a hint for further action.For example, while riding a bicycle, moving in a stream of people, crossing a street with active traffic.

You should also take into account the fact that prolonged use of audio devices at high volumes may impair hearing. The frequency response and the presence of resonant frequencies affect the auditory organs. And the fact that each ear perceives only sounds coming from one emitter can lead to increased fatigue and irritability. Experts' reviews indicate that the problem of hearing loss has become much younger over the past few decades. If earlier people aged 60-70 faced the problem of hearing impairment, today 40-year-olds are increasingly turning to doctors. And they associate this fact with the massive distribution of headphones.

In terms of the degree of danger, vacuum devices are in the first place, since they are inserted directly into the ear canal. In second place are liners, because they do not provide complete sound insulation. On the third - overhead models, the sound in which does not come directly to the ear, and therefore does not have such a strong effect on the eardrum.

The use of headphones lies in the convenience and ability to listen to the necessary information where and when it is convenient.

Tips: which headphones are best for a child

With the help of headphones, the child can listen to music and audiobooks, watch films and videos, learn foreign languages ​​and study educational programs. The main thing is to choose a children's device that will be comfortable and safe to use.

What is the main difficulty when choosing audio products for children

The fact is that a children's hearing aid, in contrast to an adult, is still being formed, and therefore it is more difficult for a child to adjust the sound volume by determining the acceptable level. But this is precisely the main rule when using headphones - do not make the sound too loud. It is also important to explain to the child that when crossing the road or being on the street in the dark, the headphones must be taken off in order to notice and have time to react to a possible danger.

Based on the design features of various models, we can conclude that monitor monitors are not suitable for a child, since they are used by professional sound engineers. It is also better not to buy vacuum and overhead because they can negatively affect the hearing of the child. The best choice is overhead. Young children (from 3 to 6 years old) will be delighted with models with characters from familiar cartoons. For a younger student, a device with a stricter design would be a good option. The popularity of models with a bright, but less childish design among children of 9-10 years old is due to the fact that they already consider themselves adults, and therefore reject everything "childish".

Not only design is important, but also technical characteristics. The sensitivity of children's gadgets should be at least 60 dB, but not higher than 90 dB.

Which company is better

The best headphones are those that sound good, do not harm your hearing, and are built to withstand the restless nature of kids. But if everything is clear with the technical characteristics, then which manufacturer to give preference to. The modern assortment is so wide that it confuses the buyer.

The best manufacturers of audio products are JBL, JVC, Koss, Urbanears, Marshall, Audio-Technica, Sennheiser recognized all over the world.

JBL

American firm founded in 1946. It specializes in the production of acoustic systems for household and professional use. It is part of the Harman International Industries concern, known for its audio equipment, which was acquired by the South Korean giant Samsung Electronics at the end of 2017.

JVC

Japanese brand under which consumer electronics is produced. The company was founded in 1927. And the first products it produced were radio components. Later, this brand launched the first TV for the mass consumer on the wide Japanese market. Since 2009, it has been part of the Kenwood Corporation.

Koss

A brand originally from the United States, producing stereo headsets and headphones. It was registered in 1958. The company has gained well-deserved popularity around the world for its commitment to high quality standards and the use of the latest technological developments.

Urbanears

A Swedish brand that is familiar to all lovers of high-quality audio devices, aimed, among other things, at creating an image. Design is something that the manufacturer is constantly working on, collaborating with the best studios, striving to create a bright and original product. Therefore, the appearance of Urbanears products is not inferior to the quality.

Marshall

A cult brand originally from Foggy Albion, with a half-century history behind it. At one time, through the sale of goods from Marshall, it was possible to significantly improve the economic situation of the whole country when England was in a state of recession (80s). Many well-known rock performers have used acoustic equipment from this manufacturer, since the company previously specialized in professional audio systems. It is currently supplying headphones and portable speakers to the broad market.

Audio-Technica

The brand was founded in 1962 in Japan and very quickly won the love of customers. The company is known for creating microphones and headphones between 2000 and 2012 for the Olympic Games. To this day, Audio-Technica supplies its products for large events.

Sennheiser

A German manufacturer with a 70th reputation as a reliable manufacturer of recording equipment and audio devices. Sennheiser is regarded by many music professionals as the benchmark for sound processing. It is this company that owns many developments that have changed the very technology of obtaining high-quality sound.

The listed companies are flagships in the production of high-quality audio equipment. But the popular children's models are easier produced by Harper, Zound Coloud, Snuggly Rascals, LilGadgets, Onanoff, Zinken.

If you have experience using the headphones described in the rating, or a more interesting model, tell us about it in the comments.