• Air Conduction Air conduction is where sound waves are transmitted through the air to the ear canals, where they cause the eardrums to vibrate. This vibration is transferred to the small bones in the inner ear, which send a signal to the brain that is interpreted as sound.

• Bone Conduction Instead of sound traveling through the air and entering the ear canal, bone conduction headphones transmit sound in the form of vibrations directly to the bones of the skull. These vibrations are then conducted through the bone to the inner ear, where they are perceived as sound.

Air Conduction Headphones vs. Bone Conduction Headphones: Which is Better?

When it comes to air conduction versus bone conduction, it is important to keep in mind that neither option is "better" than the other. It all comes down to personal preference and what you want from a new pair of headphones. Let's do some comparisons to help you decide.

• Audio quality

When it comes to audio quality, most professionals will tell you that air conduction headphones are superior. They use the ear's natural acoustics to deliver a wider range of frequencies and clear sound output. Meanwhile, it's easier to miss the subtle nuances of what you're listening to when using bone conduction headphones, as the bass tends to be particularly thin.

• Sound leak

Both air conduction and bone conduction headphones are susceptible to sound leakage to some extent. Sound leakage is the term used to describe when other people around you can hear the audio from your headphones. Bone conduction headphones, while there may be sound leakage, it is not as loud as what you will experience with open air conduction headphones.

• Comfort

Bone conduction headphones are known for their lightweight and comfortable wear, especially for long periods of time. They rest on the cheekbones and leave the ear canals open, making them the preferred choice for those who find in-ear or over-ear headphones uncomfortable or intrusive.

Open air conduction headphones, on the other hand, offer the convenience of familiar audio delivery. They do not press on your ear canals, but rather sit over them, reducing the pressure and heat buildup associated with traditional headphones. This design is particularly appealing to those who may find the vibes a little unsettling.