Ask the Expert: Headphones vs. Earbuds—Which is Better for Your Ears?

When you’re listening to the radio, music or a podcast, do you opt for earbuds or over-the-ear headphones? While both are convenient, which one is actually better for your long-term hearing?

Dr. Sandra Cummings, Consultant Audiologist at Beacon Audiology, recently joined Pat Kenny on Newstalk to discuss the pros and cons of our modern listening habits and how we can protect our ears in an increasingly loud world.

Sandra answered many questions from numerous callers on topics including tinnitus, hearing aids, eustachian tube dysfunction and many more. You can listen to the full interview here.

The Verdict: Buds or Headphones?

According to Dr. Cummings, both devices deliver sound directly to the eardrum, but they function differently.

• Earbuds: The primary issue with earbuds is the potential for sound leakage. If they do not fit perfectly, sound escapes, which often leads the listener to "jack up" the volume to compensate.

• Over-the-ear Headphones: These provide better passive noise cancellation. Because they cup the ear, they provide a more "spread" sound that is generally less harmful than the direct pressure of an earbud.

However, Dr. Cummings notes that the bottom line isn't necessarily the device itself, but your listening habits. Sound damage is cumulative and permanent, and since we only have two ears, we must look after them.

The 60/60 Golden Rule

To prevent noise-induced hearing loss, Dr. Cummings recommends following the 60/60 rule:

• Listen at no more than 60% volume.

• Limit listening to 60 minutes at a time.

• Give yourself breaks to allow your ears to recover.

Understanding the Danger Zone (Decibels)

Many people find decibels (dB) confusing because they operate on an algorithmic scale rather than simple arithmetic. For context:

• 0 dB: This is not "silence"; there is still sound at this level.

• 85 dB: The typical noise level of a busy restaurant.

• 110 dB: The level many headphones and earbuds can reach.

The Warning Sign: Anything over 80 dB for an extended period is dangerous. In loud restaurants with hard surfaces, "reverberation" causes people to raise their voices, leading the venue to turn up the music further; a vicious cycle that puts your hearing at risk.

Expert Care at Beacon Audiology

Beacon Audiology is dedicated to the highest level of diagnostic care. Whether you are noticing the early signs of noise damage, such as tinnitus or difficulty hearing in background noise, or need a specialist assessment, our team is here to help.

Are you concerned about your hearing? Contact Beacon Audiology today to book a comprehensive diagnostic assessment with our expert team.