Best Bone Conduction Headphones in 2021

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Best Bone Conduction Headphones in 2021

Bone conduction technology first came into existence way back in the 1970s in the form of hearing aids. For people who have hearing impairments, this technology has proved to be helpful. Over time, the technology evolved, and bone conduction headphones in 2021 appeal to a variety of audiences. The best bone condition headphones are particularly popular with people who enjoy scuba diving, cycling, or running, as well as those suffering from a loss of hearing.

Editor’s Quick note: Our review guide to choosing the “Best Bone Conduction Headphones” was updated on May 5, 2021.

Why bone conduction headphones? How are they different?

For outside workouts, the best bone conduction headphones allow the person training to remain aware of traffic sounds in their surrounding, while enjoying excellent quality of music. It’s definitely safer than noise-blocking headphones that can obstruct your perception while outside (there are dozens of people, normally under the age of 30, who die in headphone related car accidents every year).

The way the best bone conduction headphones differ from normal headphones such as the best workout headphones and the best waterproof bluetooth headphones is that they send vibrations through your cheekbones, as opposed to traditional headphones that use your eardrum.

Top 15 Best Bone Conduction Headphones

#1 – AfterShokz Aeropex Headphones (Overall Winner)

AfterShokz have done it again and created another fantastic pair of Bone Conduction Headphones for sports goers!

close up image of AfterShokz Aeropex Headphones, blue

KEY FEATURES & SPECIFICATIONS

  • Bluetooth: Yes
  • Type: Over-Ear
  • Enclosure: Open-Ear
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Noise Cancelling: No
  • Charging: Mic and Controls: Yes, Multi-function button
  • Transducer: Bone Conduction
  • Colors: Blue Eclipse, Cosmic Black, Lunar Grey, Solar Red
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Weight: 1 ounce/ 26g
  • Battery time: 8 hours, more than any other
  • Price: Under $200 although prices vary on Amazon (buy link) – Checked Apr 15, 2021

Our take: The AfterShokz Aeropex is, in our opinion, the best bone conduction headphones that money can buy. Compared to previous models of bone conduction headphones, the Aeropex is an upgrade in every sense. The only drawback is the cost, but if your budget permits it –  the unique array of features that it offers definitely justifies a higher price than comparable headphones in this category.

Pros

  • Great for people with hearing loss due to their technology.
  • Comfortable fit.
  • Offer situational awareness.
  • Solid battery life of 8 hours.
  • Goes into standby if you don’t use to preserve battery.
  • Very lightweight.
  • IP67 rating and a charging cable with a water detection feature.
  • Multi-function button.

Cons

  • Costs more than $100 (there are alternatives below $100).
  • Not as good quality of sound as conventional headphones.
  • Can cause ear damage in high volumes.
  • No sound blockage.

Our Rating:

9.7 / 10

Light, comfortable, durable, with good battery life and better quality of sound than other bone conduction headphones.

 

Other Bone Conduction Models by AfterShokz: AIR, XTRAINERZ or OPENMOVE


 

#2 – Aftershokz Trekz Titanium Open Ear Wireless Bone Conduction Headphones (Runner-up)

Another AfterShokz option because they really do offer great headphones! 

close-up view of the AfterShokz Titanium Bone Conduction wireless Bluetooth headphones- grey

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Bluetooth: Yes
  • Type: In-Ear
  • Enclosure: Open-Ear
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Noise Cancelling: No
  • Charging: 6 Hours battery life with quick charging
  • Mic and Controls: Yes, Noise Cancelling microphones
  • Transducer: Bone Conduction
  • Colors: Yellow, grey, blue, black, pink, red, cannon red, ocean blue
  • Waterproof: No, water resistant – sweetproof and ideal for gym or running (IP55)
  • Weight: 1.27 ounces
  • Battery time: 6 hours battery
  • Price: Between $79.95 and $200 although prices vary on Amazon (buy link) – Last Checked Apr 15, 2021

Our take: The AfterShokz Trekz Titanium bone conduction headphones are a good option for sports enthusiasts because of their user-friendly and easily accessible controls and open-ear design. They also have dual noise-cancelling mics for improved call quality. However, we think there is room for improvement, especially when it comes to the design, which is bulkier than the AfterShokz Aeropex. Moreover, they have a sound leakage problem making discreet listening difficult.

Mid range price point and overall a decent pair of headphones for outdoors cycling and jogging. Tested in 20 mph winds and found no issue hearing. These wear worn in rain and in hot sweaty conditions over a 30 day period without any problems.

Click for More General Info

The AfterShokz Trekz Titanium has an athlete-focused design, and the bone conduction transducers do not go into your ear canal – they simply sit on the side of your ears. These headphones are not designed to cut off background noise, and thus, that shouldn’t be a surprise to you.

The sound quality of the AfterShokz Titanium is really good, with rich bass and a dynamic range. You also get EQ presets with these bone conduction headphones to reduce the vibrations to your liking and boost the bass depending on your preference on the go.

The Trekz Titanium has an IP55 rating, so it can effectively protect your device from moisture, sweat, and dust, making them perfect for your workout sessions. Another added benefit of these headphones is their 6 hours long battery life. However, compared to the AfterShokz Aeropex, both the battery life and IP rating are lower.

You also enjoy an exciting feature with the AfterShokz Trekz Titanium – the Audrey Says voice prompt. Most importantly, you also get a two-year warranty with these headphones. But their neck strap is slightly loose, so many people do not prefer them during running sessions or any other activity where they can come off easily.

Pros

  • The design is lightweight and flexible.
  • They have an IP55 rating.
  • They are very portable.
  • Prices vary, but you might be able to get them cheap at the right time.
  • Quality construction
  • Sound quality is good up to speeds of 20 mph
  • Safe on the road biking and at home, helps drown out the kids when it all gets too much!
  • Pairs with multiple devices easily

Cons

  • Price is steep at certain times on amazon
  • Battery last only 6 hours.
  • Issues hearing above 30 mph

Our Rating:

Flexible, IP55 certification, durable, portable, and everything packed in a very stylish design.

9.2 / 10

 


 

#3 – Vidonn F1 Noise Cancelling Headphones

Vidonn F1 bone conduction headphones –  Impressive features, competitive price!

image of the Vidonn F1 Bone Conduction wireless headphones in grey color

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Bluetooth: Yes
  • Type: In-Ear
  • Enclosure: Open-Ear
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Noise Cancelling: No
  • Mic and Controls: Yes
  • Transducer: Bone Conduction
  • Colors: Yellow, grey, blue
  • Waterproof: No, water resistant (IP55)
  • Weight: 1.3 ounces or 37 grams
  • Battery time: 6 hours battery life and 2 hours to fully charge.
  • Price: Under $50 although prices vary on Amazon (buy link) – Checked Apr 15, 2021

Our take: We have rated this 9.2 out of 10, but if price is important and your looking for budget bone conduction headphones, then these are a great option! AfterShokz Aeropex our “best overall pick” are higher rated at 9.7 out of 10, but almost double in price, so that is worth considering. Battery-life is 2 hours less with these, so if your a marathon runner and out for long periods at a time, then this low-budget option is maybe worth passing on.

Click for More General Info

Compared to AfterShokz, Vidonn is definitely not a popular name, but they have a very good pair of bone conduction headphones that we will see here.

The Vidonn F1 titanium construction gives it an extremely lightweight nature enabling you to wear it for hours without feeling any discomfort as such. They also come at a very budget-friendly price range compared to the famous AfterShokz models.

These bone conduction headphones have an IP55 rating along with a sleek and stylish design. The sound quality is also very good. Even though it might not be exceptional, but it is definition decent considering the price.

The Videon F1 also has a CVC noise reduction technology for calls so that you can communicate without any background noise disturbance. The controls are convenient and simple. With one button, you can switch songs, play, pause, and even reject or answer phone calls.

You get Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity at a surprisingly affordable price, but at the same time, they do not have good battery life, and you get only six hours of playback time on a single charge. In short, these might be the best bone conduction headphones for you if you don’t want to spend too much money and yet get a decent experience. However, keep in mind, that the build quality isn’t that great.

Pros

  • Affordable price and cheaper than alternatives.
  • Choice of colors.
  • Lightweight.
  • They are offering your Bluetooth 5.0.
  • They have an IP55 rating – water resistant and sweatproof.
  • Comfortable fit and stay in place easily unlike others I have tested.
  • Functionality is good with the F1s – Issues with 2.4 wifi interference with Trekz.
  • I found there was interference after 100 feet away from phone – all-round good range.
  • Comfortable with glasses.
  •  Very bendy, easily fits any head size and shape.
  • Compatible with Android or iPhone.
  • Good for those with hearing impairments.

Cons

  • Battery life is not as good as other options here – like the AfterShokz Aeropex.
  • Can’t be used for swimming.
  • Bass quality are not great with these headphones.

Our Rating:

Durable and reliable pair of bone conduction headphones outside the AfterShokz family that provide impressive features for those on a budget.

9.2 / 10


 

#4 – Tayogo Headphones

close up image of grey Tayogo Bone Conduction headphones with Bluetooth

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Bluetooth: Yes
  • Type: Over-Ear
  • Enclosure: Open-Ear
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Noise Cancelling: No
  • Mic and Controls: Yes, Physical Buttons
  • Transducer: Bone Conduction
  • Colors: Grey, red, blue
  • Waterproof: No, only used for running, driving, cycling – avoid heavy rain use.
  • Weight: 5.6 ounces
  • Battery time: Around 5 to 7 hours
  • Price: Under $50 and prices do vary on Amazon (buy link) – Checked Apr 15, 2021

Our take: These are the best cheapest headphones available along with the KppeX (#13) and again if budget is important, then these are a viable option. Rated 9.1 out of 10 which is much better than the KppeX at 8.5 out of 10, but again these are not for audiophiles. You get all the basic functionality you expect but unlike premium brands the test of time wear these out.

Click for More General Info

Even though these are not the best bone conduction headphones out there, they are definitely a best-value purchase. If you are someone who simply wants to try out the bone conduction experience but doesn’t want to spend too much, the Tayogo bone conduction headphones are the perfect option for you.

They use Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity and offer a battery life of six hours on a single charge. They have 30 feet of guaranteed stable connection, something similar to what the other expensive headphones provide. They come with an IP55 waterproof headphones rating, just like the Trekz Titanium by AfterShokz.

On the other hand, the audio quality of these headphones is not that great as the other options on this list. They have a built-in microphone that allows you to answer calls on the go without any hassle. They have physical buttons on them for control. With these buttons, you can switch the headphones on/off, adjust the volume, and go to the previous/next song by long-pressing the volume buttons. There is also a one-touch manipulation feature with which you can pause the current song and answer/end a call.

All in all, these are a good pair of bone conduction headphones on a budget but also keep in mind that you will be compromising on audio quality and some people also complain that the vibrations can be uncomfortable after a certain point. On the other hand, in the AfterShokz Titanium, you get EQ presets, which help you adjust the vibrations to your suitability.

Pros

  • They have an IP55 water-resistant rating.
  • You get a reliable Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity with 30 feet range.
  • The battery life is decent considering the price.

Cons

  • Brand not so well-known.
  • Comfort is not great with these headphones.
  • Other premium brands get around 100 feet – AfterShokz Aeropex

Our Rating:

9.1 / 10


 

#5 – Oaxis myFirst

This is an image of the Oaxis myFirst Bone Conduction headphone with microphone for kids-blue

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Bluetooth: No
  • Type: Over-Ear
  • Enclosure: Open-Ear
  • Wireless: No
  • Noise Cancelling: No
  • Mic and Controls: Yes
  • Transducer: Bone Conduction
  • Colors: White, pink, blue
  • Waterproof: No
  • Weight: 2.12 ounces
  • Battery time: 1-2 hours
  • Price: Under $50 and prices do vary on Amazon (buy link) – Checked Apr 15, 2021
Click for More General Info

If you thought that in this bone conduction headphones review we only covered for adults, Oaxis is here to prove you wrong with its very own kids’ variant of the same. The only difference that this pair of headphones has with the rest is that it doesn’t have Bluetooth connectivity and is wired. Nonetheless, it helps you get the perfect music experience, especially in children who have hearing problems.

Moreover, compared to adults, children are very sensitive to music that is directly given into their ear canals. If you don’t want to damage their eardrums at an early age, this can be a very good alternative. Owing to the design, the kids can always stay aware of what is going on around them and still listen to whatever they want – be it some music or a video on YouTube.

To make these headphones even more attractive, they are available in a variety of bright colors. They also have this amazing magnetic design making it easier for kids to detach and apply.

The overall quality of these kids headphones are very comfortable and perfect for all-day listening.

Pros

  • They have a comfortable design for kids.
  • Safe for kids – 85 decibel to ensure that listening levels are safe.
  • They use the standard 3.5mm audio plug.
  • There are no charging hassles owing to the wired design.
  • Fun magnetic accessories unique depending on color chosen.
  • lightweight at 47 grams, 1.65 ounces

Cons

  • These are not designed for kids that are deaf or impaired hearing.
  • The volume limitation can also be a negative for more responsible kids.
  • Again with 30 feet it doesn’t reach as far as other brands in terms of distance.
  • Child’s product and not for adult use.

Our Rating:

8.9 / 10


 

#6 – ZBones Stealth

close-up view of the ZBones Stealth wireless Bone Conduction headphones- black

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Bluetooth: Yes
  • Type: Over-Ear
  • Enclosure: Open-Ear
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Noise Cancelling: No
  • Mic and Controls: Yes
  • Transducer: Bone Conduction
  • Colors: black
  • Waterproof: no, sweat only!
  • Weight: 6.1 ounces
  • Battery time: 6 hours of listening time.
  • Price: Under $100 and prices do vary on Amazon (buy link) – Checked Apr 15, 2021
Click for More General Info

If you want to enhance your listening experience, then the ZBones Stealth bone conduction headphones are a perfect match! They are known for their stereo-sound quality and the high comfortability that they offer when you wear them for longer hours.

Their design is very ergonomic, and no matter how much physical activity you do, they are going to stay in place and not fall off. Another added advantage of these headphones is their simple controls. There are volume up and down buttons, a power button, and a USB port. There is also a Z-function button on the left earbud. With a single click of this button, you can end calls, receive calls, play music, and even pause them. If you want to skip the current song that you are playing, all you have to do is double-click the Z button.

The open ear design of these headphones is extremely suitable for people pursuing different types of sports activities on the road, for example, running or cycling. It increases situational awareness.

You also get Bluetooth 5.0 technology with these along with 6 hours of battery life which is enough for most people. The bone conduction technology that enables the open-ear design of these headphones increases your safety greatly because now, you will be able to listen to everything starting from emergency sirens and vehicles to even people.

Pros

  • They offer reliable Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity.
  • You can pair two devices simultaneously.
  • Sit well on on top of the cheek bones and felt comfortable to use while running.

Cons

  • No alternative colors
  • Only 6 hours battery life, unlike the AfterShokz alternatives that have 8 hours.

 

Our Rating:

9.2 / 10


 

#7 – Pyle Open Ear Bone Conduction Headphones

image of the Pyle Comlex Bluetooth bone conduction headphones in black color

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Bluetooth: Yes
  • Type: On-Ear
  • Enclosure: Open-Ear
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Noise Cancelling: No
  • Mic and Controls: Yes
  • Transducer: Bone Conduction
Click for More General Info

The Pyle open ear bone conduction headphones are an excellent option for sports enthusiasts. They have a side panel that is very easy to operate and also comes with an IPX6 rating which makes them a highly durable choice.

If you are looking for a pair of bone conduction headphones that won’t slide or slip from their place, then these are an excellent choice. The wrap-around design is very comfortable and doesn’t cause any amount of uneasiness even after you have worn them for long hours. Because of their high IP rating, you don’t have to worry even if you get sweaty during your workouts. These headphones will be able to withstand it.

Even when you are on the go, you can easily control different functionalities through the side panel like microphone control, volume, and sound quality. Because of the stable Bluetooth connectivity, you can enjoy easy hands-free talking on the phone, making life so much easier. These bone conduction headphones also come with an LED light that will let you know that the pairing is complete.

Despite all these exciting features, one of the major drawbacks of these headphones is that they cannot be adjusted to varying head sizes. Thus, even though these are not the best bone conduction headphones in the market in terms of features, they are definitely a good option on a budget.

Pros

  • They come with an LED light indicator for battery life and pairing.
  • They provide a non-slip design making them perfect for sports enthusiasts.
  • The side panel controls are easy to use and handy.

Cons

Our Rating:

9.0 / 10


 

#8 – Swimaudios Open-Ear Wireless Headphones

close up image of a grey wireless Bone Conduction headphones with Bluetooth by Swimaudios

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Bluetooth: Yes
  • Type: On-Ear
  • Enclosure: Open-Ear
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Noise Cancelling: No
  • Mic and Controls: Yes
  • Transducer: Bone Conduction
Click for More General Info

If you want the latest Bluetooth connectivity with a host of other features in your bone conduction headphones, you should definitely check out the ones by Swimaudios. Not only does this one have Bluetooth 5.0, but it also offers the benefits of pairing with multiple devices at a time. You can use these with your PC, Macbook, tablet, laptop, iOS, and Android.

Another outstanding feature of these headphones is their stable connection and wide range. If someone wants to pair their device from a distance of 35 feet, they can easily do it, and they will also get a stereo sound with high fidelity.

These wireless bone conduction headphones have an anti-drop design that not only makes them stable but also ergonomic. To enhance this pair of headphones’ durability and portability, the manufacturer has used a titanium headband in the wraparound design. The overall design is not only lightweight but also flexible.

If your ultimate aim while using headphones is that you want to be fully aware of all the ambient noise, then the open ear design of these headphones really helps the case. They also provide you with six hours of battery life. Even though they do not have an IP67 rating like AfterShokz Aeropex, they come with an IP65 rating that makes them good enough to repel moisture, sweat, and dust. But if you are an audiophile, these headphones might not be the one for you because they are not that great when it comes to sound quality.

Pros

  • They offer 5.0 Bluetooth connectivity.
  • They come with a one-year warranty.
  • The flexible headband makes them comfortable and ergonomic.

Cons

Our Rating:

9.1 / 10


 

#9 – Moing Wireless Bone Conduction Headphones

This is an image of a black wireless bone conduction headphones by MOING

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Bluetooth: Yes
  • Type: In-Ear
  • Enclosure: Open-Ear
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Noise Cancelling: No
  • Mic and Controls: Yes
  • Transducer: Bone Conduction
Click for More General Info

If you are on a really tight budget but also want a good experience, you should check out the Moing wireless bone conduction headphones. For the budget-friendly option that they are, you get a host of exciting features.

For starters, they offer a battery life of six hours which is touching the mark set by other pricier models on this list. Apart from that, you also get a good quality microphone that is built-in so that you can receive and enjoy clear calls. What is surprising is that even at a price like this, they are offering Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity.

If you want to protect your headphones from light sweating and other such exposure, this one would be an excellent choice due to their IPX5 rating. But if you want a better IP rating than that, check out the Vidonn F1 Titanium, giving you an IP55 rating. It is not the headphone for someone who is an audiophile because of the lack of rich bass and overall good sound profile.

Thus, even though these bone conduction headphones might not be that great in audio quality but they do provide good comfort and are within the budget of a lot of people.

Pros

  • They are built to be well-fitted and comfortable.
  • They offer Bluetooth 5.0 connection.
  • The price will be within even the tightest budgets.

Cons

Our Rating:

9.2 / 10


 

#10 – AfterShokz Trekz Air Bone Conduction Headphones

close-up view of the AfterShokz Air wireless bone conduction headphones- red

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Bluetooth: Yes
  • Type: On-Ear
  • Enclosure: Open-Ear
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Noise Cancelling: Yes
  • Mic and Controls: Yes
  • Transducer: Bone Conduction
Click for More General Info

The AfterShokz Trekz Air is a pair of very slim and sleek bone conduction headphones with highly improved comfortability. In fact, when you wear them for longer hours, you might forget that you are wearing a headphone owing to the comfy design.

For people working out in an urban environment and those who do not want to cut off the ambient noise, the AfterShokz Trekz Air is a really good choice. For sports enthusiasts, these are usually a favorite. Since they use bone conduction technology, they will not send the music directly into your ears, but they will send it in the form of vibrations, so you actually feel the music in the literal sense in place of only listening to it.

The feedback of the controls on Trekz Air is good, but when it comes to user-friendliness, they don’t score that high mainly because the buttons are placed so close to each other that it’s not easy to distinguish them in a hurry. Another disappointing factor is that they do not have any multi-press action button, which is present in several other bone conduction headphones on this list.

The Trekz Air has a rubber coating on it which makes it durable but not waterproof. Even the microphone quality is not that great. They have a battery life of 6 hours on a single charge. But you can get an hour of playback time with only 15 minutes of charging, which is a handy feature.

So, even though the Trekz Air does not hit all the great levels, it does have some decent features like a lightweight design that its counterparts, and once you wear them, they won’t move much and remain stable. But the AfterShokz Aeropex is definitely an upgrade from the AfterShokz air.

Pros

  • They have a flexible and lightweight design.
  • It gives you the benefit of situational awareness.
  • The headphones stay in place once you wear them.

Cons

Our Rating:

9.2 / 10


 

#11 – IYY Bone Conduction Headphones

image of the IYY wireless bone conduction headphones-grey

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Bluetooth: Yes
  • Type: On-Ear
  • Enclosure: Open-Ear
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Noise Cancelling: No
  • Charging: Mic and Controls: Yes
  • Transducer: Bone Conduction
Click for More General Info

As you already know, bone conduction technology is for someone who wants to be aware of what is happening in his surroundings while listening to their favorite track. From that point of view, these headphones definitely fit the description, and they also fulfill the purpose.

They are also equipped with the latest Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity and are durable too because of the IP55 waterproof rating. Now, you can safely wear them to your gym and workout sessions without worrying about any damage to the headphones. The IP rating for this one is the same as Vidonn F1. They also offer a stable connection to a range of 33 feet which serves most purposes. They also offer a six-hour battery life.

As far as the controls are concerned, there are two multifunction buttons. But many people complain that they do not have a flexible headband and, thus, does not give the ideal fit for everyone. Even in terms of sound quality, these headphones are not that great as the others on the list.

Pros

  • They offer Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity.
  • They are made from ABS + titanium and thus, have a lightweight design.
  • The controls are easy and user-friendly.

Cons

Our Rating:

9.6 / 10


 

#12 – AfterShokz Bluez 2S Wireless Bone Conduction Headphones

close up image of the AfterShokz Bluez 2S wireless bone conduction headphones in red color

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Bluetooth: Yes
  • Type: On-Ear
  • Enclosure: Open-Ear
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Noise Cancelling: No
  • Charging: Mic and Controls: Yes
  • Transducer: Bone Conduction
Click for More General Info

The AfterShokz Bluez 2S bone-conduction headphones are another option worth checking out from the AfterShokz family. But there are a lot of features that you will have to compromise on. For starters, they have Bluetooth 3.0 connectivity which is quite backdated.

On the flip side, the sound quality of these headphones is excellent because they have patented dual suspension transducers that help in getting the dynamic sound experience. The bass is also much enhanced.

For people who wish to use these headphones during calls, you should know that the microphone quality is outstanding, and even if you are in a place that is too noisy, you will be able to engage in clear communication.

Overall, these headphones are not worth buying at this age where almost every other option on this list is giving you Bluetooth 5.0. But if you want to stick to the AfterShokz family and looking for another option in the bone conduction headphones, these are worth checking out.

Pros

  • The sound quality is excellent.
  • The microphone performance is good.
  • They have IP55 certification.

Cons

 

Our Rating:

9.5 / 10


 

#13 – KppeX Wireless Bone Conduction Headphones

This is an image of the KppeX wireless Bone Conduction headphones - black

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Bluetooth: Yes
  • Type: Over-Ear
  • Enclosure: Open-Ear
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Noise Cancelling: No
  • Mic and Controls: Yes
  • Transducer: Bone Conduction
Click for More General Info

If you fear that you might damage your eardrums from over-exposure to music, then bone conduction headphones are what you need, and the KppeX wireless bone conduction headphones are a really great option on a budget. They are great for sports enthusiasts owing to the open-ear design that allows you to always stay aware of what is going on in your surroundings, thus helping cyclists and runners stay safe on the road.

The wraparound headbands of these bone conduction headphones have a very flexible design, giving you a perfect fit and an extended comfort level when worn for longer hours. They are durable, too, owing to the IP56 waterproof rating.

A convenient feature is the three-year warranty that comes with these headphones. But a significant drawback is the five hours of battery life which is really less, and the sound quality is not that great as well.

Pros

  • They are perfect for sports enthusiasts because of the comfortable and stable fit.
  • They have an IP56 rating.
  • They are a very budget-friendly option.

Our Rating:

9.1 / 10


 

#14 – YouthWhisper Bone Conduction Headphones

close-up view of YouthWhisper Bluetooth bone conduction headphones in black color

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Bluetooth: Yes
  • Type: On-Ear
  • Enclosure: Open-Ear
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Noise Cancelling: No
  • Mic and Controls: Yes
  • Transducer: Bone Conduction
Click for More General Info

If you have someone in your house who has hearing problems or uses hearing aids, the YouthWhisper bone conduction headphones are worth checking out for them. They do not directly go into your ears and thus, do not hamper with the hearing aids but, at the same time, give you the headphone experience.

The design of the bone conduction headphones is such that they sit on your temporal bone and send vibrations to your eardrum through which you hear the music. The best headphones in this category are by AfterShokz, but if you think you don’t want to spend too much right away, then the YouthWhisper bone conduction headphones are worth checking out.

They offer 5.0 Bluetooth connectivity and also have good battery life. For phone calls, the battery will last for up to eight hours, whereas, for music, you get six hours of playback time on a single charge. Even though they are comfortable to wear, there is constant sound leakage from these headphones. Some people even complain that they get a tingling sensation at times that might not b comfortable for all because of the sound vibrations.

If you do not want these drawbacks, you should check out some of the leading bone conduction headphones by AfterShokz, where you would be able to adjust the level of sound vibrations through EQ presets.

Pros

  • The battery life is decent.
  • They have Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity.
  • The headband is flexible and comes with a soft silicone patch making it even comfier.

Our Rating:

9.5 / 10


 

#15 – EKEN Bone Conduction Headphones

image of the EKEN wireless bone conduction headphones - red

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Bluetooth: Yes
  • Type: On-Ear
  • Enclosure: Open-Ear
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Noise Cancelling: No
  • Mic and Controls: Yes
  • Transducer: Bone Conduction
Click for More General Info

Owing to the bone conduction design of the EKEN headphones, you need not put the plugs into your ear canal, but they will simply rest on your temporal bone, just like all other models that we mentioned in this list.

To enhance the comfortability factor, these headphones have a small silicone patch at the back of the head other than the highly flexible headband. They offer Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity too and also a very stable connection.

They weigh only 0.88 oz. and thus perfect for people who use headphones for longer hours. They come with an IP54 rating which makes them durable by repelling sweat, moisture, and dust. On a single charge, you can enjoy six hours of battery life.

But all of these features are available in other budget-friendly options too. If you think about the price of these headphones, then they are not worth the purchase because, at that price, you can get much better options.

Pros

  • They have an IP54 waterproof rating.
  • They have a lightweight design.
  • They offer Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity.

Our Rating:

9.0 / 10


 

Considerations Choosing the Best Bone Conduction Headphones

If you are confused with so many options and don’t know which are the best bone conduction headphones in the market, here’s a guide to help you out.

Battery Life

The battery life is a very important feature. In the case of wired headphones, you don’t really have to worry about the charging part. But when it comes to wireless Bluetooth headphones, the playback time is something you should pay attention to. If the playback time is too short, like 4-5 hours, you’ll have to charge your headphones frequently, which is not convenient.

Active Noise Cancellation

The bone conduction headphones do not come with the active noise cancellation feature because their whole idea is to let the ambient noise in so that you can stay aware of what is going on in your surroundings. So, this is a factor you will not get in these headphones.

Controls

The controls should be easily accessible, user-friendly, and easy to memorize. If they are too sensitive to touch, then too, it would be problematic.

Microphone

This is another critical feature, especially for those who plan to use their headphones in voice calls as well. If the microphone quality is not good, your voice won’t sound clear on a call.

Cabled Backup

If you don’t want to fall into a situation where your headphones are out of charge, and you cannot recharge them right now, then you should look for a cabled backup as well.

Comfortable Fit

If headphones do not have a comfortable fit, they will feel uneasy and destroy the whole listening experience. So, here are some things that maximize the comfortability of these headphones – flexible headbands, silicone padding at the back, and adjustable EQ presets so that the vibration can be set to your preference.

Sound Quality

The ideal headphone should have a good sound quality because come on, if the sound output is not good, you will not get the same satisfaction upon hearing your favorite track. The bass should be good but not too boomy, and the overall sound profile should be neutral.

Water Resistance

The water resistance rating on headphones is another factor that you should always check before buying. If you are someone who wears your headphones to the gym or performs intensive workouts, opt for higher water resistance ratings to protect your headphones from sweat and moisture.

If headphones for water use are essential then check out our guide to the Best Waterproof Bluetooth Headphones.

Build Quality

A better build quality ensures that your headphones last you for a long time and don’t easily get affected even when you accidentally drop them.

Indeed, the bone conduction headphones are not for everyone, and there is a particular set of people looking for certain characteristics that would love these, but they are an amazing option for people going scuba diving, suffering from hearing loss, cycling, running, and so on. If you are ready, in this article, we will explore some of the best bone conduction headphones that you will get in the market.


 

Bone Conduction Headphones FAQs

How Do Bone Conduction Headphones Work?

Instead of directing the music through your ear canals, the bone conduction headphones send vibrations through your bone and jaws directly to your inner ear. They completely bypass the eardrum and thus prevents any damage to it in the long run.

Is bone conduction headphone safer Than conventional headphones?

In terms of cochlear damage, bone conduction headphones are not safer than conventional headphones. In fact, they are the same because, ultimately, the sound is conducted by the cochlea. However, since bone conduction headphones increase situational awareness, they are much safer from that point of view.

Do bone conduction headphones damage your hearing?

Yes, is the short answer. If music is played loudly, then damage can be caused.  When you increase volume on any type of headphone, you become a risk of developing cochlear damage, and the same applies to bone conduction headphones as well.

Are bone conduction headphones good for running?

The sound emitted will be deep bass and your will feel lower vibrations, even with the sound volume turned up. Bone conduction therefore allows you to hear environment noise for better safety during running.

Can you wear glasses with AfterShokz?

Yes, you can wear AfterShokz headphones with glasses, which include sunglasses. We recommend putting on the headphones first and then the glasses after.

What is better, air conduction or bone conduction?

This depends on your usage. If you have hearing impairments or engage in a lot of sports activities outdoors in the urban environment where you need to let the ambient noise in, then the bone conduction ones are much better than the air conduction headphones.

Can a deaf person use bone conduction headphones?

Yes, a deaf person can absolutely use bone conduction headphones and listen to their favorite music.

Is bone conduction better for your ears?

Yes, many consider bone conduction safer because the headphones does not limit and cut off the surrounding environment, unlike other types of air conduction alternatives. Furthermore, in-ear or earbuds can cause damage due to the intense stimulus, unlike bone conduction headphones that do not rely on ear insertion.

Are bone conduction headphones worth it?

Yes, bone conduction headphones are an excellent option for people using hearing aids or sports enthusiasts. They are totally worth it!

How much do bone conduction headphones cost?

Prices for bone conduction headphones can vary but typically around $100 to $300.

Are AfterShokz safe?

Yes, the AfterShokz bone conduction headphones are completely safe.

Are Bose frames bone conduction?

Bose frames do not manufacture or use bone conduction technology.

Do bone conduction headphones have bass?

Suppose high-fidelity audio is your priority, then bone conduction headphones are not where you should look be looking. Because of their open-ear design, they are not always the best when it comes to sound quality. This is also the reason why they do not possess a rich bass.

Are bone conduction headphones any good?

Bone conduction headphones are good for people who have a hard time hearing and also for those who do a lot of workouts outdoors.

For the former, the bone conduction technology is no doubt a boon because when they use conventional headphones, they don’t work well with the existing hearing aids. However, bone conduction headphones have a way of bypassing them and not interfering with anything while, at the same time, giving you the best music experience.

As far as the people who perform outdoor workouts are concerned, they always have to remain aware of any traffic sounds in their surroundings, especially in the case of runners. And the bone conduction headphones don’t block your ear canal, so they can hear everything around them and listen to music simultaneously.

What are the pros and cons of bone conduction headphones

Pros

  • The first and foremost benefit of the bone conduction headphones is that they allow more situational awareness to people. It’s good to get lost in the music you hear, but at the same time, when you are outside, you need to be concerned about safety as well. For this, you need to hear people calling out or car horns, and these headphones will allow you to do that.
  • They are a great option for people with hearing loss.
  • They offer a comfortable fit and won’t fall off as earbuds do.
  • Since it offers a unique listening experience, you can literally feel the music and not just listen to it.

Cons

  • These headphones might cause cellular damage, especially if you play the music at too high volumes. The vibrations will cause irritation against your cheekbones and also pose a risk to cochlear damage.
  • The sound quality of these headphones is not as great as the conventional ones.
  • These headphones might have some cool features, but they are also very costly, and it is a major disadvantage for many people.
  • Lastly, you can hear your surroundings with these headphones. Even though that’s an advantage for some people, it might not be to you. If you want complete noise isolation to concentrate on the music only, then these headphones are not for you.
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What are the best wireless bone conduction headphones?

The AfterShokz Aeropex are the best wireless bone conduction headphones considering their overall features.

This is an image of the AfterShokz Aeropex wireless Bone Conduction Headphones- blue

What are the best bone conducting headphones for kids?

For adults, the AfterShokz Aeropex is a great option. If you are looking for bone conduction headphones for your kids, then the Oaxis myFirst is worth checking out.

This is an image of the Oaxis myFirst Bone Conduction headphone with microphone for kids-blue

Rose Annemarie
Rose loves to review products and has been doing so for years. Now she focuses on headphones and tech products.

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