Choosing the right headphones today is not only a matter of aesthetics but above all comfort and sound quality. The market offers a huge selection of models – from lightweight in-ear headphones to professional over-ear designs with active noise cancellation. However, before you decide on a specific model, it is worth considering what you will use them for most often. A gamer, who needs precise spatial sound and a comfortable microphone, looks for different features than a music lover expecting clear, deep sound. Well-chosen headphones can completely change the experience of music, movies, or games, transporting the user to a whole new dimension of sound. In this guide, we suggest how to choose the perfect headphones – tailored to your lifestyle, needs, and budget. Here you will find a discussion of key technical parameters, differences between in-ear and over-ear models, and tips on how to select equipment to meet your expectations. We will also look at the requirements gaming headphones should meet and which features are most important for music lovers. The article refers to specific products available in the All4home store to help you choose from verified options. Whether you listen to music, play games, or simply value silence and good sound quality – you will find tips here to help you make the best choice.

How to Choose Headphones. A Complete Guide Before Purchase

Choosing headphones can be quite a challenge, from in-ear models to large over-ear ones, from hi-fi versions to gaming headphones. In this guide, you will learn what to pay attention to, what requirements headphones for gamers should meet, and what for a true music lover. We will also show which features are worth considering when browsing an online store's offer, e.g., the headphone category in the All4home store.

1. In-ear or over-ear? Which design will be best for you.

One of the basic choices is the headphone design. You can choose between in-ear (in-ear / canal) models and on-ear or over-ear. Each design has its advantages and limitations.

• In-ear headphones: compact, lightweight, easy to carry, ideal if you are often on the move or traveling. A downside may be a smaller soundstage, smaller drivers, less isolation — although good models can still be found.
• On-ear / over-ear headphones: covering or surrounding the ears, offer better isolation from the environment, larger drivers (which allow for deeper bass, better soundstage) and are usually more comfortable for long listening sessions. On the other hand, they are less mobile and can be heavier.

In the context of both groups, if you value mobility and shorter sessions, in-ear headphones may be sufficient. However, if you want comfort, good sound quality, or plan longer listening, it is worth considering over-ear headphones.

2. Main criteria for choosing headphones

Before moving on to specific models, look at the parameters below. They determine whether the headphones will meet your needs.

• Driver – larger ones usually allow for better bass and fuller sound.
• Frequency response – although not everything depends solely on the number of Hz, look for a wide range and good sound characteristics.
• Impedance – if you plan to connect headphones to a smartphone or laptop without an amplifier, choose models with lower impedance.
• Connection type – wired vs wireless. Wireless offers convenience but may have latency or lower sound quality.
• Isolation and design – closed-back headphones better block ambient sounds, which promotes immersion.
• Comfort and ergonomics – especially important if you listen for long hours. Lightweight design, well-shaped headband, comfortable ear pads.
• Microphone and communication (for gamers) – if you plan to play or talk online, the microphone has become as important as sound quality.

3. Headphones for gamers. What to expect?

If you are a gamer, whether on PC, console, or in e-sports mode, your headphone requirements will be somewhat different from a typical music listener. Here are the most important features:

• Surround sound or well-simulated soundstage – allows you to hear the location of opponents (e.g., footsteps in the game), sound effects, and their distance.
• High-quality communication and microphone – during online gaming, you need to be heard clearly and distinctly.
• Minimal latency – especially in fast-paced games, any delay can disrupt comfort.
• Comfort for long sessions – headband, well-fitting ear pads, lightweight design, possible adjustment.
• Isolation from surroundings – preferably closed or semi-open design, which helps focus on game sound.
• Compatibility – make sure the headphones work on your platform (PC, PS5, Xbox, Switch) and that the connector/connection is appropriate.

For example, in the All4home offer, you will find models such as ONIKUMA X15 PRO with 50 mm drivers and strong bass. A gamer user should also pay attention to the microphone and whether it is omnidirectional.

4. Headphones for music lovers

If your main activity is listening to music or you want to use headphones for movies and relaxation, your priorities will be a bit different:

• High sound quality – clear highs, deep bass, good tonal balance, natural soundstage.
• Wide frequency response and low distortion – it is worth looking for models with good reviews.
• Comfort even during hours of listening – soft ear pads, lightweight design, possible swiveling or folding.
• Wired or high-quality wireless connection – pay attention to codecs (e.g., aptX, LDAC) and battery life.
• Isolation or usability on the go – choose a model with good isolation or noise cancellation function.

For example: the All4home offer includes the QCY ANC H4 model – over-ear headphones with ANC technology (active noise cancellation), up to 70 hours of battery life, and a gaming mode with low latency. See the QCY ANC H4 model.

5. Is it worth choosing in-ear headphones for gaming?

Although most gaming headphones are on-ear or over-ear designs, in-ear versions also appear. However, it is important to be aware of the compromises.

In-ear headphones can be comfortable and mobile but usually offer less sound space and isolation than large designs. In dynamic games where sound location matters, over-ear design may have an advantage.

If you mainly play on a smartphone, on the go, or in less demanding conditions — in-ear may be sufficient. For full immersion, e-sports sets, or long sessions – it is worth considering larger, over-ear models.

6. How to make a decision

In summary: choosing headphones is a matter of matching your style, priorities, and budget. If you mainly play games, look for models with a good microphone, comfort, low latency, and soundstage. If your main needs are listening to music or movies, focus on sound quality, comfort, and appropriate design.

Remember that design (in-ear vs over-ear) is not only a matter of comfort but also sound quality and isolation. Also consider wired vs wireless connection – wireless is convenient but may have some limitations.

In the All4home store, you will find a wide selection of headphones, from gaming models to classic over-ear headphones with ANC function. Choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.

We wish you a successful purchase – may the music or game sound just the way you want!