Earbuds and headphones have a huge impact on our day-to-day lives.  From jamming out to music on your morning jog to listening to your favorite podcast as you work from home, at some point you’re going to pop them in and tune out the rest of the world.  However, when choosing a set of headphones that fits your lifestyle, it’s worth considering the potential benefits of the best bone conduction headphones.

According to car accident statistics, 68 percent of pedestrians who were killed or injured had headphones on at the time of the incident. This information is pretty scary, considering there’s no telling what could happen if you immerse yourself in music or a phone call while outdoors.  Bone conduction headphones can potentially help lower this risk and this piece will explain how.

With that said, there’s a lot to learn about bone conduction headphones. Let’s start with how they work.

Sounds Like Something You Should Know

The best bone conduction headphones are a technological wonder. So, it’s no surprise how much consumer curiosity surrounds these devices.

Let’s explore a few frequently asked questions, starting with the most popular of them all:

How do bone conduction headphones work?

The primary goal of the best bone conduction headphones is to distribute sound without involving the eardrums. These devices work by using vibrations to transmit sound via the cheekbones to your cochlear.

The sound, whether as music or a phone call, reaches the ears as vibrations through the skull bones and skin.

This technology was discovered by Ludwig van Beethoven, the famous 18th Century composer who was deaf. He found that by attaching a rod to his piano, he could “hear” the music if he clenched his teeth.

This finding finally proved sound could be perceived through other channels besides the ear.

RELATED READ: Top 7 Best Studio Headphones Under $500

Are these headphones moisture-resistant and waterproof?

The best bone conduction headphones often have moisture-resistant and waterproof properties. Several models have a sweatproof coating to help resist light rain, humid conditions, and sweat from sporting activities.

This is considerate on the part of manufacturers, since most of us take our headphones everywhere and use them daily.

While some bone conduction headphones are extremely water-friendly, others are not. The only way to determine if the model you’re interested in allows complete immersion in water or limited contact with water is to read the product description or owner’s manual.

man walking headphones

Are bone conduction headphones safe?

Yes, these headphones are safe. Audiologists have used the technology to develop hearing aids since the 1970s. These devices are even more reliable than traditional headphones because of their unique mechanism and construction.

The best bone conduction headphones use vibrations to transmit sound through the jawbone and skull while avoiding the inner ear canal altogether. This method protects users from permanent hearing loss and other hearing-related problems caused by prolonged headphone use.

But like every device, these headphones are not perfect.

Bone conduction headphones may be considered unsafe if you use them at extremely high volumes. However, this is also true of regular headphones and earbuds.

Can people with hearing loss use bone conduction headphones?

Absolutely. This is because the ear isn’t the only medium through which sound is transmitted. Our bones and skulls also act as instruments for sound waves.

But before you rush out to make a purchase, you should consider an essential factor. The type of hearing loss may have a significant impact on the sound and its quality.

However, there have been several reports of people with hearing issues being able to hear clearly and comfortably with the best bone conduction headphones without hearing aids.

To make the right decision, we would advise that you consult your doctor for their medical recommendation.

RELATED READ: The 10 Best Bass Headphones For Full-bodied Sound

It’s More than Just a Trend

There are several advantages of using the best bone conduction headphones. We love that these benefits go beyond lifestyle and fashion trends.

Let’s explore a few reasons why you need to invest in a pair today.

Gina Linetti headphones dancing clueless

Situational awareness

A great reason to use the best bone conduction headphones is to promote situational awareness. You can enjoy activities such as jogging, cycling, or running while actively listening to your environment.

This is all made possible by a transducer that sits on your cheekbones, leaving your ears free and ready to soak in surrounding sounds.

If you use bone conduction headphones, you’ll no longer need to turn down your volume to hear approaching vehicles. You’d also have a much better chance of staying safe while on the move.

These benefits contribute to why most people choose the best bone conduction headphones over traditional headphones.

Additionally, they’re ideal for people who enjoy music or prefer to keep their hands free as they go about their day.

For the impaired

Due to their mechanism, these devices can be a valuable asset for people with disabilities.

You can use bone conduction headphones if you have hearing loss. It’s the only auditory technology outside of hearing aids that favors people with hearing disabilities.

If you also have a visual impairment and rely heavily on your hearing, these headphones may be for you.

They promote situational awareness while giving you the confidence to move around safely.

In addition to being beneficial to the impaired, bone conduction headphones can be used as a preventive measure.

If you’re an avid music listener or in the business of using headphones for several hours at a time, bone conduction headphones may lower your risk of developing hearing issues since they avoid the inner ear canal completely.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Bone Conduction Headphones

Now that we’ve explored the benefits of bone conduction headphones, it’s time to move forward. Here, we’ll discuss important things to look out for when investing in a particular model.

headphones

Design and comfort

Since these devices have a unique construction, it’s essential to choose a model that’s user-friendly and compatible with your lifestyle and daily activities.

The basic design of bone conduction headphones is akin to a neckband with two earpieces situated in front of your ears on your temporal bones. While this is the basic design, they’re not all the same.

So, your goal should be to choose a pair of headphones that fit your face perfectly.

Durability

Sound quality doesn’t mean much if the overall construction is terrible. This is why you should pay particular attention to the strength of the bone conduction headphones you’re buying.

If you live an active lifestyle, consider choosing a model that can withstand the vigorousness of the activities you enjoy. Also, you may want to pick a water-resistant model with a fast-charging system that allows for several hours of music and talk time.

Wired or wireless?

Wires can be a hassle — especially when they get tangled up with other objects. But they’re particularly annoying when they get in the way during sporting activities.

When choosing a wireless model, consider the connectivity and battery life. Additionally, select a model that has the latest Bluetooth technology to enjoy effortless pairing.

How We Rounded up Our Top Picks

To bring you an unbiased review, we researched several bone conduction headphones and selected only those that met specific criteria. We looked at the battery longevity and picked models with a fast charging time.

Another area we considered was the overall design.

It’s imperative to us that the headphones blend effortlessly into your lifestyle — whether it’s an active one or business-centered. We also analyzed the various features each pair of headphones brought to the table and made sure they’re user-friendly, technologically advanced, and have incredible sound quality.

The 10 Best Bone Conduction Headphones You Can Buy

We explored the world of bone conduction headphones to bring you the very best that can stand against the test of time.

So, in no particular order of relevancy, meet our finalists:

1. AfterShokz Trekz Air 

Aftershokz Air Bone Conduction Wireless Bluetooth Headphones with Reflective Strips, Slate Grey
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AfterShokz understands the motivating power of music and visuals. As such, they created the Trekz Air to allow you to immerse yourself in your favorite music and scenery simultaneously.

These headphones consist of an open-ear design, ensuring your ears always remain alert to the world around you.

They also have reflective strips to make drivers aware of your presence when out running, cycling, or walking. Furthermore, the strips are visible from over 500 feet at night due to the 3M Scotchlite reflective material.

We believe the AfterShokz Trekz Air are some of the best bone conduction headphones you’d ever come across. They deliver convenience and increased comfort like no other.

With these headphones, you’ll enjoy high-quality music play and crystal-clear phone calls without any issues. You’ll also feel comfortable wearing them for the whole day!

2. Vidonn F1

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No products found.

The best bone conduction headphones are the safest alternative to traditional headphones and earbuds. So, it should be no surprise that the Vidonn F1 headphones work by using vibrations to transmit sound via the cheekbone to your inner ear.

These headphones use the latest Bluetooth 5.0 technology for effortless wireless pairing.

This makes it easier for users to enjoy top-notch convenience. With just one button, you can answer and reject phone calls, as well as pause, play, and switch songs.

We also love that it has a secure fit design that holds the device in place even as you partake in vigorous activities.

The Vidonn F1 headphones have a two-hour fast-charging system. They offer six hours of phone calls and music play, and over a week of stand by time. If you invest in this sweatproof device, you’ll enjoy a 12-month warranty.

3. AfterShokz Trekz Titanium

Aftershokz Titanium Bone Conduction Wireless Bluetooth Headphones with Brilliant Reflective Strips, Ocean Blue
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As already established, AfterShokz is no stranger to manufacturing the best bone conduction headphones. The AfterShokz Trekz Titanium headphones help promote situational awareness.

Because they’re designed for long-term wear, these headphones consist of titanium wraps that are lightweight, flexible, and durable. These properties work together to help you focus on the activities you love without worrying about the headphone’s performance.

Like the Trekz Air, the Trekz Titanium have an IP55 rating to curb slippage.

They can withstand sweat and intense weather conditions without slipping off. The AfterShokz Trekz Titanium headphones feature dual noise-canceling microphones to promote crystal clear calls. They also use the Leaks Layer technology to reduce natural sound leakage and Premium Pitch technology for wide dynamic range and rich bass.

4. Tayogo Bone Conduction Headphones

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No products found.

These Tayogo headphones are some of the best bone conduction headphones for many reasons. They’re a smart alternative to earbuds and headphones.

The Tayogo Bone Conduction Headphones provide high-fidelity sound with improved comfort and clarity without blocking out the world around you.

They include advanced Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity that’s compatible with various devices, such as smartwatches, tablets, and iOS or Android devices.

You’ll appreciate the comfortable, lightweight design that wraps around your head, creating a form-fitting experience. Another incredible feature of these wireless headphones is the sound quality.

They offer a dynamic range and deep bass that produces high-quality music and crystal-clear calls. The Tayogo Bone Conduction Headphones come with a built-in microphone and long-lasting battery life. After recharging, you’ll enjoy up to six hours of playback time and consistent listening.

5. WGP On-Ear Wireless Bone Conduction Headphones

WGP Bone Conduction Headphones Open Ear Wireless Headsets Bluetooth 5.0 Free Ears Lightweight Sports Headsets for Jogging Running Driving Cycling Sweatproof Earsets (Gray)
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WGP uses a straightforward mechanism to provide users with an on-ear experience. These wireless headphones work by sending vibrations through the skull and transmitting sound via the cheekbones to the cochlea. This method prevents sore ears and hearing impairment issues caused by traditional headphones and earbuds.

The WGP On-Ear Wireless Bone Conduction Headphones feature an anti-drop design with a titanium wraparound headband. They also make use of a food-grade silicone outer cover with an attachment design that promises to shield your ears from pain after extended use.

Additionally, these affordable headphones consist of a simple, multi-functional button. Click once to answer or end a phone call, as well as play or pause your favorite track.

You can also long-press to activate Siri, double-click to skip to the next track, or triple-click to jump to the last record.

6. Genso Bone Conduction Headphones

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No products found.

Protect your ears with the best bone conduction headphones from Genso. These headphones use the latest Bluetooth 5.0 technology for a faster pairing time and uninterrupted connection. The Genso Bone Conduction Headphones’ signal transmission reaches up to 33 feet.

With the multi-functional button, you can access various features by making specific clicks and patterns. Genso designed these headphones to be the perfect accessory for sports and other outdoor activities. They have an IP55 sweatproof layer to resist light rain, humid conditions, and sweat from sporting activities.

We appreciate that the company used an ABS+ titanium alloy to make the device lightweight and durable. Additionally, due to the ergonomic design, these headphones are comfortable to wear for an extended period.

The Genso Bone Conduction Headphones offer up to six hours of play or talk time.

7. AKASO G101 Aero Open-Ear Bone Conduction Headphones

AKASO Bone Conduction Headphones Open Ear with Microphone Wireless Bluetooth 5.0 Sports Headsets for Jogging Running Sports and Fitness
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The best bone conduction headphones should provide wireless transmission without any obstruction. This is precisely what the AKASO G101 Aero Open-Ear Bone Conduction Headphones offer.

This device promotes situational awareness while allowing you to indulge in your favorite activity. You should know that these headphones are lightweight, feature excellent construction, and weigh in at just 33 grams. They also utilize an incredibly ergonomic design to prevent hearing discomfort even after long hours.

Additionally, they can reduce the risk of hearing impairment and won’t cause pain to the inner ear canal. These bone conduction headphones are the ideal outdoor workout accessory. Since they meet the IP55 waterproof standard, they can withstand light rain and sweat.

This device has a 12-month warranty and comes with a high-performance lithium battery for your convenience. You’ll enjoy several hours of continuous playtime, as well as a standby time of 10 days.

8. VJJB Bone Conduction Headphones

VJJB Bone Conduction Headphones Bluetooth 5.0,Z8 Open-Ear Stereo Wireless Bone Conduction Headsets Lightweight and Waterproof Sports Bluetooth Earphones with Mic for Gym Running Cycling
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VJJB offers complete freedom with this line of wireless headphones. With Bluetooth 5.0 and a connectivity range of 33 feet, you’ll enjoy a faster paring time and uninterrupted performance.

Similar to several of the best bone conduction headphones, they work by using vibrations to transmit sound via the cheekbones to your cochlear.

The VJJB Bone Conduction Headphones aren’t just lightweight; they also remain in place during activities that require vigorous movements. If you invest in these headphones, which we believe are some of the best bone conduction headphones, you’ll receive a well-thought-out package.

These items include one USB charging cable, one instruction manual, and two earplugs.

9. AZ Aztine Bluetooth Bone Conduction Headphones for Swimming

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No products found.

The AZ Aztine Bluetooth Bone Conduction Headphones for Swimming are, without a doubt, some of the best bone conduction headphones on the market.  They offer eight-hours of playback time, four-hour call time, and several days of standby time.

This device is unique because it transmits sound via a metal vibrator instead of traditional speakers. These headphones have an open-ear design, which makes it possible for you to pick up sounds in your environment. This design also comes with the neat twist of being created for use in the pool or out in the waves. 

Before You Hit the Checkout Button

Now that you have all the essential pieces of information at your fingertips, it’s time to find the best bone conduction headphones for your needs.

But before you hit the checkout button, note the following: When investing in a pair of headphones, it’s vital to choose a brand and design you can incorporate easily into your lifestyle.

So, if you’re an athletic person, opt for a waterproof model that can support your sporting activities. If you run, choose one with a secure fit.

Have you used bone conduction headphones before? Let us know your experiences in the comments below!