If you have small ears, finding the right pair of headphones can be a challenge. Many popular headphones on the market are designed with average-sized ears in mind, which can make them uncomfortable and even painful to wear for extended periods of time.
When it comes to finding the best headphones for small ears, it’s important to consider factors such as size, comfort, and sound quality. The right pair of headphones should fit snugly and securely without causing discomfort, and provide high-quality audio that enhances your listening experience. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right pair. In this article, we will review the best headphones for small ears in 2023 and provide a buying guide to help you make the right decision for your needs
What to Look for in Headphones for Small Ears
Before we dive into our top picks, let’s discuss what to look for in headphones for small ears. Here are a few key factors to consider:
Earbud or Over-Ear
The first decision to make when shopping for headphones is whether you prefer earbuds or over-ear headphones. Earbuds are smaller and more portable, but may not be as comfortable for extended use. Over-ear headphones are larger and bulkier but may offer better sound quality and more comfortable wear for longer periods.
Size and Fit
The most important factor when shopping for headphones for small ears is finding a pair that fits properly. Look for headphones with adjustable headbands and earcups that can be adjusted to fit snugly without causing discomfort.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is also important when choosing headphones. Look for headphones with good frequency response, a wide dynamic range, and high sensitivity for optimal sound quality.
Comfort
Finally, consider the overall comfort of the headphones. Look for headphones with padded earcups and headbands, as well as lightweight materials that won’t weigh down on your head.
Top Picks for Best Headphones for Small Ears 2023
After extensive research, we have identified the top picks for the best headphones for small ears in 2023. Here are our recommendations:
Best Wireless Earbuds for Small Ears: Jabra Elite 65t
The Jabra Elite 65t earbuds are a top pick for those with small ears. These earbuds are small and lightweight, with a secure fit that won’t slip out of your ears. They also offer excellent sound quality, with a balanced and detailed soundstage that delivers rich, full-bodied audio. Additionally, the Jabra Elite 65t earbuds are wireless, making them easy to use and convenient for on-the-go listening.
| Specification | Details |
| Type | True wireless earbuds |
| Driver size | 6mm |
| Frequency response | 20Hz – 20kHz |
| Impedance | 16 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 103dB |
| Battery life (earbuds) | Up to 5 hours |
| Battery life (with charging case) | Up to 15 hours |
| Charging time | 2 hours (earbuds), 3 hours (charging case) |
| Bluetooth version | 5.0 |
| Bluetooth range | Up to 33 feet (10 meters) |
| Microphone | 4-microphone system |
| Water resistance | IP55 rating |
| Voice assistant support | Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri |
| Weight | 6.5 grams (per earbud), 67 grams (charging case) |
Best Over-Ear Headphones for Small Ears: Bose QuietComfort 35 II
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones are a great choice for those who prefer over-ear headphones. These headphones offer excellent noise cancellation, which can be a great benefit for those who need to block out external noise while working or studying. They also provide excellent sound quality, with balanced and clear audio that is perfect for listening to music, watching movies, or making calls. The Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones are also comfortable to wear for extended periods of time, thanks to their lightweight design and soft ear cushions.
| Specification | Details |
| Type | Over-ear headphones |
| Driver size | 40mm |
| Frequency response | 20Hz – 20kHz |
| Impedance | N/A |
| Sensitivity | N/A |
| Battery life | Up to 20 hours (wireless), up to 40 hours (wired) |
| Charging time | 2.25 hours |
| Bluetooth version | 4.1 |
| Bluetooth range | Up to 33 feet (10 meters) |
| Noise cancellation | Advanced noise-cancellation technology |
| Microphone | Dual-microphone system |
| Voice assistant support | Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri |
| Weight | 8.3 ounces (235 grams) |
Best On-Ear Headphones for Small Ears: Beats Solo3 Wireless
The Beats Solo3 Wireless headphones are a top pick for those who prefer on-ear headphones. These headphones are lightweight and compact, with a comfortable fit that won’t cause discomfort even after hours of use. They also offer excellent sound quality, with clear and balanced audio that delivers a powerful and immersive listening experience. Additionally, the Beats Solo3 Wireless headphones are wireless, making them easy to use and convenient for on-the-go listening.
| Specification | Details |
| Type | On-ear headphones |
| Driver size | N/A |
| Frequency response | N/A |
| Impedance | N/A |
| Sensitivity | N/A |
| Battery life | Up to 40 hours |
| Charging time | 2 hours |
| Bluetooth version | 4.0 |
| Bluetooth range | Up to 33 feet (10 meters) |
| Noise cancellation | No |
| Microphone | Built-in microphone |
| Voice assistant support | Siri |
| Weight | 7.58 ounces (215 grams) |
Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Small Ears: Sony WH-1000XM4
The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are a top pick for those who need noise-cancelling capabilities. These headphones offer excellent noise cancellation, with advanced features that can block out even the loudest external sounds. They also provide exceptional sound quality, with detailed and accurate audio that is perfect for all types of music and media. Additionally, the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are comfortable to wear for extended periods of time, thanks to their lightweight and soft earpads.
| Specification | Details |
| Type | Over-ear headphones |
| Driver size | 40mm |
| Frequency response | 4Hz – 40kHz |
| Impedance | 47 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 104.5dB |
| Battery life | Up to 30 hours (with noise-cancellation), up to 38 hours (without noise-cancellation) |
| Charging time | 3 hours (with AC adapter), 7 hours (with USB port) |
| Bluetooth version | 5.0 |
| Bluetooth range | Up to 30 feet (10 meters) |
| Noise cancellation | Industry-leading noise-cancellation technology |
| Microphone | Dual-microphone system |
| Voice assistant support | Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri |
| Weight | 8.95 ounces (254 grams) |
Best Noise-Cancelling Airpods for Small Ears: Apple AirPods Pro
The Apple AirPods Pro is a great option for those who prefer earbuds with a comfortable fit and excellent noise cancellation. These earbuds feature an in-ear design with three different ear tip sizes to ensure a secure and comfortable fit. They also provide immersive sound with active noise cancellation and have an impressive battery life of up to 24 hours with the charging case.
| Specification | Apple AirPods Pro |
| Design | In-ear |
| Ear tips | Three sizes of soft, tapered silicone tips |
| Active Noise Cancellation | Yes |
| Transparency mode | Yes |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Audio technology | Adaptive EQ, Apple-designed H1 chip, high-excursion, low-distortion driver |
| Sensors | Dual beamforming microphones, inward-facing microphone, dual optical sensors, motion-detecting accelerometer, speech-detecting accelerometer |
| Controls | Force sensor on the stem for music, calls, and Siri, tap to play or skip forward |
| Sweat and water-resistant | Yes (IPX4) |
| Battery life (single charge) | Up to 5 hours |
| Battery life (with charging case) | Up to 24 hours |
| Charging time | 5 minutes for 1 hour of listening time (with wireless charging) |
| Compatibility | iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Apple Watch, Mac, and Apple TV |
| Weight | AirPods Pro (each): 0.19 ounces (5.4 grams), Wireless Charging Case: 1.61 ounces (45.6 grams) |
Best Noise-Cancelling Earbuds for Small Ears: Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2
The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2 is another excellent option for those who prioritize sound quality and comfort. These earbuds have a sleek design with customizable touch controls and provide excellent sound quality with active noise cancellation. They also have an impressive battery life of up to 28 hours with the charging case.
| Specification | Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2 |
| Design | In-ear |
| Ear tips | Four sizes of silicone ear tips |
| Active Noise Cancellation | Yes |
| Transparency mode | Yes |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.1 |
| Audio technology | Sennheiser 7mm dynamic drivers, support for aptX |
| Frequency response | 5 Hz to 21 kHz |
| Impedance | 28 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 99 dB SPL (1 kHz / 1 mW) |
| Microphone | Dual beamforming microphones |
| Controls | Touch controls on earbuds, voice assistant support |
| Sweat and water-resistant | Yes (IPX4) |
| Battery life (single charge) | Up to 7 hours |
| Battery life (with charging case) | Up to 28 hours |
| Charging time | 1.5 hours (earbuds), 3 hours (charging case) |
| Compatibility | Bluetooth devices supporting HSP, HFP, AVRCP, and A2DP |
| Weight | Earbuds: 6 grams (each), Charging case: 58 grams |
Best Noise-Cancelling Earbuds for Small Ears: Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro
The Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro is a popular choice for those who want earbuds that provide excellent sound quality and noise cancellation. These earbuds feature an in-ear design with customizable ear tip sizes and provide immersive sound with active noise cancellation. They also have an impressive battery life of up to 28 hours with the charging case.
| Specification | Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro |
| Design | In-ear |
| Ear tips | Three sizes of silicone ear tips, one size of memory foam ear tips |
| Active Noise Cancellation | Yes |
| Transparency mode | Yes |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0, Samsung Galaxy Wearable app |
| Audio technology | 2-way speakers (woofer + tweeter), support for 360 Audio, Dolby Atmos |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz to 20 kHz |
| Impedance | 32 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 104.5 dB SPL (1 kHz / 1 mW) |
| Microphone | Three microphones (2 outers, 1 inner), Voice Pickup Unit |
| Controls | Touch controls on earbuds, voice assistant support, Auto Switch |
| Sweat and water-resistant | Yes (IPX7) |
| Battery life (single charge) | Up to 5 hours (ANC on), up to 8 hours (ANC off) |
| Battery life (with charging case) | Up to 18 hours (ANC on), up to 28 hours (ANC off) |
| Charging time | 1 hour (earbuds), 2 hours (charging case) |
| Compatibility | Android and iOS devices with Bluetooth capability |
| Weight | Earbuds: 6.3 grams (each), Charging case: 44.9 grams |
Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Small Ears: Shure AONIC 50
The Shure AONIC 50 is an excellent option for those who prefer over-ear headphones with exceptional noise cancellation and sound quality. These headphones have a sleek and comfortable design with adjustable ear cups and provide immersive sound with active noise cancellation. They also have an impressive battery life of up to 20 hours.
| Specification | Shure AONIC 50 |
| Design | Over-ear |
| Earpads | Memory foam ear pads |
| Active Noise Cancellation | Yes |
| Transparency mode | Yes |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0, a wired option with the included cable |
| Audio technology | 50 mm dynamic drivers, support for high-resolution audio |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz to 22 kHz |
| Impedance | 39 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 97 dB SPL/mW |
| Microphone | Four microphones (two beamforming, two environmental), Digital Signal Processing |
| Controls | Touch controls on earcups, voice assistant support |
| Sweat and water-resistant | No |
| Battery life (single charge) | Up to 20 hours (ANC on), up to 30 hours (ANC off) |
| Charging time | 2 hours |
| Compatibility | Android and iOS devices with Bluetooth capability |
| Weight | 334 grams |
Best Noise-Cancelling Earbuds for Small Ears: Anker Soundcore Liberty Air 2 Pro
The Anker Soundcore Liberty Air 2 Pro is a great option for those who want earbuds with a customizable fit and excellent sound quality. These earbuds feature an in-ear design with customizable ear tip sizes and provide immersive sound with active noise cancellation. They also have an impressive battery life of up to 26 hours with the charging case.
| Specification | Anker Soundcore Liberty Air 2 Pro |
| Design | In-ear |
| Ear tips | Silicone ear tips in multiple sizes, memory foam ear tips |
| Active Noise Cancellation | Yes |
| Transparency mode | Yes |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Audio technology | Diamond-coated drivers, support for high-resolution audio |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz to 20 kHz |
| Impedance | 16 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 105 dB SPL/mW |
| Microphone | Six microphones (two beamforming, four environmental), Digital Signal Processing |
| Controls | Touch controls on earbuds, voice assistant support |
| Sweat and water-resistant | Yes, the IPX4 rating |
| Battery life (single charge) | Up to 7 hours (ANC on), up to 9 hours (ANC off) |
| Battery life (with charging case) | Up to 26 hours (ANC on), up to 35 hours (ANC off) |
| Charging time | 1.5 hours (earbuds), 2 hours (charging case) |
| Compatibility | Android and iOS devices with Bluetooth capability |
| Weight | 9.5 grams (each earbud), 52.5 grams (charging case) |
Best Noise-Cancelling Earbuds for Small Ears: Cambridge Audio Melomania Touch
The Cambridge Audio Melomania Touch is an excellent option for those who want earbuds with exceptional sound quality and a comfortable fit. These earbuds feature an in-ear design with customizable ear tip sizes and provide immersive sound with advanced noise isolation. They also have an impressive battery life of up to 50 hours with the charging case.
| Specification | Cambridge Audio Melomania Touch |
| Design | In-ear |
| Ear tips | Silicone ear tips in multiple sizes |
| Active Noise Cancellation | No |
| Transparency mode | No |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Audio technology | Graphene-enhanced drivers, support for high-resolution audio |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz to 20 kHz |
| Impedance | 28 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 109 dB SPL |
| Microphone | Dual microphones, Digital Signal Processing |
| Controls | Touch controls on earbuds, voice assistant support |
| Sweat and water-resistant | Yes, IPX4 rating |
| Battery life (single charge) | Up to 9 hours |
| Battery life (with charging case) | Up to 45 hours |
| Charging time | 1.5 hours (earbuds), 2 hours (charging case) |
| Compatibility | Android and iOS devices with Bluetooth capability |
| Weight | 5.5 grams (each earbud), 42 grams (charging case) |
Conclusion
Choosing the best headphones for small ears can be a challenging task, but it’s important to find a pair that fits properly, is comfortable to wear, and delivers high-quality sound. Our top picks for the best headphones for small ears in 2023 include the Jabra Elite 65t earbuds, Bose QuietComfort 35 II over-ear headphones, Beats Solo3 Wireless on-ear headphones, and Sony WH-1000XM4 noise-cancelling headphones. Consider your personal preferences and needs when selecting the right pair of headphones for small ears for you.
FAQs
Q. What makes headphones comfortable for small ears?
A: Headphones that are adjustable, lightweight, and have soft ear cushions are usually more comfortable headphones for small ears.
Q. Are wireless headphones better for small ears?
A: Wireless headphones can be a good choice for small ears, as they are usually more compact and lightweight than wired headphones.
Q. Can noise-cancelling headphones be uncomfortable for small ears?
A: Some noise-cancelling headphones can be uncomfortable for small ears, as they are often larger and heavier than non-noise-cancelling headphones. Look for headphones with adjustable ear cups and soft cushions to ensure a comfortable fit.
Q. What is the difference between over-ear and on-ear headphones?
A: Over-ear headphones have larger ear cups that go around the ears, while on-ear headphones have smaller ear cups that rest on the ears.
Q. How can I ensure the best sound quality from my headphones?
A: To ensure the best sound quality from your headphones, make sure they fit properly and are adjusted correctly, and use high-quality audio files or streaming services.