What are Bone Conduction Headphones and How Do They Work?

Bone conduction headphones are a unique type of headphones that allow you to listen to music without blocking your ears. But how do they work, and what are their advantages and disadvantages? Let’s find out.

Ordinary headphones emit sound waves straight into your ear canals, sealing them and creating a pressurized chamber, allowing you to listen to music. However, this causes discomfort or pain after prolonged use due to the pressure created by the earbuds or earcups pressing against your ears. Also, ordinary headphones can block out external sounds, which can be dangerous when used in outdoor settings.

Unlike traditional headphones, bone conduction headphones do not obstruct external sounds. This makes them a safer option for outdoor activities, as you can remain aware of your surroundings while still being able to listen to your audio.

How do bone conduction headphones work?

Bone conduction headphones do not require earbuds or earcups to transmit sound—they are pressed against your cheekbones, just in front of your ears. The headphones have small transducers that vibrate when they receive an electrical signal. These vibrations travel through your cheekbones and directly stimulate your inner ear, allowing you to listen to your audio without passing through your eardrums.

Advantages of Using Bone Conduction Headphones

1. Bone conduction headphones are a safer option for outdoor activities because they allow you to remain aware of your surroundings. 
2. They are more comfortable to wear for extended periods, as they do not pressurize your ear canals. 
3. They can be a great option for people experiencing issues with their middle or outer ear. This is because they transmit sound directly into the inner ear, bypassing the outer ear and middle ears. 
4. They don’t obstruct the ear canal, making them a more hygienic option than traditional headphones.
5. Bone conduction headphones are less likely to cause damage to the inner ear than traditional headphones, although they are not completely safe.

Disadvantages of Using Bone Conduction Headphones

1. Bone conduction headphones do not provide the same level of sound quality as traditional headphones. This is because some of the vibrations may be lost or distorted during conduction. 
2. Bone conduction headphones rely on contact with your cheekbones, which may vary depending on your facial structure and skin thickness. If the contact is not optimal, the sound quality may suffer.
3. They are more expensive and not widely available like traditional headphones. 
4. Prolonged use of head conduction headphones may cause fatigue in your inner ear and affect your hearing quality and sensitivity.
5. They are not fit for noisy environments because external noise may distract you. 

Conclusion

Bone conduction headphones provide a unique and innovative solution for people who enjoy outdoor activities and want to remain aware of their surroundings while listening to music. Although they do not offer the same sound quality as traditional headphones, their benefits are greater than their drawbacks.