How to choose waterproof headphones

Waterproof headphones are one of the achievements of modern technology that was previously impossible to even dream of. Take walks in the rain, take a shower, swim in the pool, sea, ocean to the sounds of your favorite songs - this device gives such incredible opportunities to a person.

In our country, headphones, comfortable for swimming, appeared relatively recently, but have already managed to gain immense popularity among people who appreciate, first of all, comfort and the ability to enjoy the sound of music no matter what they are busy.

Principle of operation

The “magic” of headphones for swimming is easy to explain: as a rule, they use Bluetooth, so the device is paired with the user's gadget. However, there are models that already have an integrated MP3 player. Such headphones are controlled using a special remote control that is worn on the user's finger, but other models may also be found.

As a rule, in order to ensure sound quality, devices of their in-channel type are used in their manufacture. Earphones of this type completely cover the ear canal, providing a good level of hydro and sound insulation. To ensure sound quality under water and maximum fit, interchangeable inserts of various sizes and shapes are also supplied.

Main characteristics

Wireless headphones with water protection can have different characteristics depending on the manufacturer, model and cost. However, there is a list of standard features that this device provides for the user. It:

• high sound quality with the ability to hear well and environmental sounds (indispensable when practicing in the pool or while jogging);
• average working time - from 30 to 360 minutes of music playback;
• powered by batteries;
• standard plug connector (3.5 mm), which makes it possible to use headphones for any gadgets in wireless mode;
• the presence of a compact remote control;
• comfortable fit due to the delivery of nozzles of different sizes and shapes;
• many variations of colors and shades;
• some models have reflectors, which allows you to run even on a rainy evening.

Of course, the characteristics of underwater headphones for sports sound really impressive. However, as with any equipment, this ship device has both pros and cons.

Advantages and disadvantages

Let's start with the advantages, which can be quite easily formulated based on the functionality and characteristics of waterproof headphones.

1. Ample opportunities for users. The model, resistant to water, can be used in almost any environment: in the pool, on vacation and even during diving (the best models can withstand immersion under water up to 3 meters). People who are not keen on swimming can also appreciate the comfort of using such a device. After all, with waterproof headphones you can listen to music while taking a shower, or exercise on the treadmill without fear that drops of sweat will ruin the device. For outdoor exercise enthusiasts, these headphones allow you not to be afraid of rain and play sports comfortably in any weather.
2. Multifunctionality. Despite its main purpose - use in water and under water, such headphones thanks to bluetooth technology may well serve as a headset for the phone. If you connect them to your phone, tablet or player using a standard cable, you can get the most ordinary headphones with good sound. Thus, the purchase of such headphones, in fact, eliminates the need to purchase additional accessories for gadgets.
3. The convenience of use. Today, a large number of models of headphones for swimming are being developed on the market, and their functions are constantly being improved. Modern headphones work on batteries, equipped with a quick charge function that allows you to charge the device in 15-30 minutes. Manufacturers are doing everything to make the use of waterproof headphones comfortable for users and bring only positive emotions.
   So, for example, headphones for swimming are able to save users from the problem typical of ordinary headphones - loss of a device from the ear. Due to the fact that the waterproof headphones are adapted for use under water, they are firmly fixed in the ears. This makes the device attractive not only for athletes and lovers of swimming, but also for everyone who often listens to music on the go.
4. Ease of care. It is no secret that during active use the headphones are subject to pollution. You could only dream of just washing your favorite device with a cloth moistened with water. Waterproof headphones in this regard provide users with maximum freedom of action.

As for the shortcomings of waterproof headphones, you can not hide the fact that they also exist.

1. Sound quality. Despite the fact that manufacturers strive for maximum sound quality in headphones for swimming, in comparison with conventional headphones, such models still lose. This is primarily due to the peculiarities of using Bluetooth technology for sound transmission, which degrades the sound quality during its transmission.
   Many models have a built-in amplifier that optimizes sound and prevents loss of volume during signal transmission, but unfortunately, this modernization of waterproof models does not affect the sound itself.
2. Cost. To purchase a truly high-quality model that would have all of the above advantages, you will have to fork out for a certain amount.

However, buying ordinary headphones, you should not hope to get high-quality sound and durability for 500 rubles. Therefore, a thorough analysis of the models of waterproof headphones presented in stores allows you to choose for yourself an option that is optimal in the ratio of "price - quality".

How to choose waterproof headphones?

When choosing headphones for swimming, a large number of factors should be taken into account, the main of which are the operating time, weight and quality of the case.

1. Working hours. The main objective of waterproof headphones is the ability to combine listening to music with an active lifestyle. Therefore, the time that the device can work without requiring recharging can be attributed to one of the most important selection criteria.

   It is also worth paying attention to the "quick charge" function, which will allow you not to part with your favorite headphones even in a hurry. The best choice would be a model that combines the ability to charge via the USB port with the ability to be powered by batteries.

2. Weight. Why is this parameter important? Because waterproof headphones are an essential attribute of an active lifestyle. Overly heavy headphones will soon begin to cause discomfort to the owner and can ruin all the pleasure that the advantages of such a device give.

   However, excessively light weight can also be a sign of poor-quality plastic or even a fake. The average weight of high-quality headphones is 30-40 grams. It is important to compare the weight indicated in the technical specifications with the parameters stated on the official website of the manufacturer.

3. Waterproof case. The word "waterproof" can have different meanings.Therefore, before rushing to dive under the water in freshly purchased headphones, it is better to compare the declared indicator of protection against water. In accordance with international standards, waterproof devices receive an IP (penetration protection) index from X0 to X8.

   Please note that headphones with the X0 index are not intended for use underwater. Further, the degree of protection is increasing. So, a device with an index of X1 is protected only from dripping water (for example, during rain), and a device with an index of X8 allows the owner to dive under water to a level of more than 1 meter and a long period of time.

Thus, the choice of waterproof headphones is not an easy task, especially in the face of the diversity of the modern market. To navigate in such a variety and choose the best option will help the rating of models.

Rating waterproof players

Sony NW-WS413

• 4 GB of internal memory
• Support Formats: AAC, MP3, WMA, PCM
• Battery Life: Up to 12 hours
• Temperature range: –5 ° C to 45 ° C

This model of Sony walkman headphones has the Ambient Sounds function, which allows you to adjust the three options for mixing music and external noise depending on the conditions of use.

Sony NW-WS623

• 4 GB of internal memory
• Supported Formats: AAC, FLAC, Linear PCM, MP3, WMA
• Battery Life: Up to 12 hours

Sony NW-WS623 have a high degree of protection and can be used in salt water.

Madwave aquatone

• 4 GB of internal memory
• Support Formats: MP3, WMA
• Battery Life: Up to 15 hours

DEXP X-709W

• 4 GB of internal memory
• Support Formats: MP3, WMA
• Battery Life: Up to 10 hours

IPX8 FM MP3

• 8 GB of internal memory;
• Supported formats: MP3, WMA;
• Battery life: up to 10 hours.

Title	Sony NW-WS413	Sony NW-WS623	Madwave aquatone	DEXP X-709W	IPX8 FM MP3
Type of	Flash	Flash	Flash	Flash	Flash
Built-in memory	4 GB	4 GB	4 GB	4 GB	8 GB
Audio Format Support	MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV, PCM	MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC, WAV, PCM	MP3, WMA	MP3	MP3, WMA
Maximum runtime	12 h	12 h	15 h	8 h	8 h
The weight	32 g	32 g	-	60 g	17 gr
Price	from 5200 rub.	from 7400 rub.	from 5400 rub.	from 2000 rub.	from 3400 rub.

Waterproof headphone rating

T’nB ESSPX8

• Compatible with smartphones and other devices that have a Jack 3.5 mm jack
• Possibility of immersion under water to a depth of 10 meters

Huawei AM61

• Type: "gags"
• Frequency range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
• Impedance: 32 ohms
• Sensitivity: 96dB
• Battery Life: 11 hours
• Battery recharge time: 2 hours
• Weight: 19.7 g
• Additional options: built-in Bluetooth module; profiles A2DP, AVRCP, Hands free, Headset

High-quality headphones of a well-known brand, suitable for use not only during active sports, due to its water resistance, but also for traditional listening to music.

Sony MDR-XB510AS

• Type: "gags"
• Frequency range: 4 Hz - 24 kHz
• Impedance: 56 Ohm
• Sensitivity: 106 dB
• Membrane diameter: 12mm
• Functional cable length: 1.2 m
• Weight: 9g
• Additional options: the presence of neodymium magnets; interchangeable ear pads supplied by the manufacturer as standard

High-quality "ears" from a world-renowned manufacturer will save their user from the need for careful cleaning. Thanks to the moisture protection provided by the manufacturer, this model of accessory can be rinsed with running water without worrying about the interaction of mechanisms with moisture.

AfterShokz Trekz Air

• Type: overhead
• Frequency range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
• Resistance: 50 Ohm
• Sensitivity: 100dB
• Battery Life: 6 hours
• Battery recharge time: 2 hours
• Weight: 30g
• Additional options: sound transmission through bone conduction; built-in Bluetooth module; profiles A2DP, AVRCP, Hands free, Headset

Stylish headphones with moisture protection, equipped with a wide range of functionality, will be indispensable for long trips, especially those whose occupation involves frequent conversations using a telephone headset.

Koss BT190i

• Type: "gags"
• Frequency range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
• Impedance: 32 ohms
• Sensitivity: 96dB
• Battery Life: 4 hours
• Battery recharge time: 2 hours
• Weight: 65g
• Additional options: interchangeable ear pads, supplied as standard; built-in volume control

Waterproof "ears", which will be appreciated by lovers of an active lifestyle, which implies regular exercise, due to the ease of use and versatile functionality.

Thus, underwater headphones are a convenient and useful device that allows you to live in comfort and not part with your favorite songs almost never. When choosing such a device, it is worth considering many characteristics, the main of which were discussed below. It is worth noting that counting on impeccable sound quality is not worth it even in the most expensive models.

Title	T’nB ESSPX8	Huawei AM61	Sony MDR-XB510AS	AfterShokz Trekz Air	Koss BT190i
Frequency Response Range	20 - 20,000 Hz	20 - 20,000 Hz	4 - 24000 Hz	20 - 20,000 Hz	20 - 20,000 Hz
Sensitivity	110 dB	96 dB	106 dB	100 dB	101 dB
Impedance	32 ohm	32 ohm	56 ohm	11 ohm	32 ohm
The weight	13.6 g	19.7 g	9 g	30 g	45 g
Membrane diameter	10 mm	11 mm	12 mm	-	-
Price	from 2000 rub.	from 2200 rub.	from 1450 rub.	from 11000 rub.	from 3500 rub.