Headphones for kids are similar to your typical headphones but with added features to ensure that they can use them without the risk of harming their hearing. Hence, it is important to make sure that the ones you let them use are distinctively made to protect, not damage, their sensitive and more delicate ears.
Because of the ongoing pandemic and sudden shift to remote schooling, your kids probably spend a large portion of their day using headphones. In this article, we will provide you with our top 10 picks as well as an informative buying guide, which also contains additional comments and tips from pediatrician Dr. Joey Cuayo-Estanislao!
Dr. Joanna Pamela Cuayo-Estanislao is a pediatrician and child health specialist based in Metro Manila. Doc Joey is passionate about health education and empowering families to become informed advocates of their children's health and wellness. She uses social media to educate and raise awareness about important issues and topics in the field of pediatrics and child care.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
The products and services listed are ranked independently by the editorial team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide (as of 01-16-2023).
Table of Contents
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Although the question “how loud is too loud?” seems unanswerable, generally, it can be easily answered for kids. The ideal volume for kids does not go beyond 85 decibels (dB); thus, it is important to go for headphones that can limit the volume lower than this level.
A normal conversation at home typically registers at 50 decibels, which is considered still quiet for children. However, 70 decibels, the sound volume equivalent to your vacuum cleaners, and the traffic outside is already deemed as a little ‘annoying’ or intrusive for kids. Can you imagine what it would be like if it were something as loud as 100 decibels?
Your regular headphones can emit sounds of up to 115 decibels. This level can already lead to possible ear rupture for children. Thankfully, there are volume-limiting headphones that are distinctively made for kids. These can only emit a maximum of 85 decibels, which is considered within safe limits, given that the length of use is not excessive.
For adults, a volume level of a typical listening device of 70 percent, or 82 decibels, has been ruled safe for eight hours of listening in a day, but in children, an even lower volume level is advisable. For kids, 60 percent volume should be loud enough, and they should be taking breaks every hour to let their ears rest.
You'll know if their volume is too high if they have difficulty hearing someone's speaking voice at arm's length, signaling that their volume level is probably greater than 85 decibels.
Another important feature to look for is the headphone’s noise-canceling ability. This feature can also be useful, especially for your little ones who are attending classes online. Let’s admit it - kids are easily distracted. Just one bark from your dog can get their heads turning away from their lessons.
Noise-canceling headphones can eliminate all those unwanted background noises so your children can stay focused on what they’re listening to—without the dogs in the background barking or the chickens of the neighbors making noises.
Noise-cancelling headphones can be better, in that your child doesn't have to turn up the volume if their surroundings are not as quiet as they need it to be. They are also good for times when there are loud noises nearby that can harm your kids' ears, such as construction noises and loud machines.
Since video calls are essential for distance learning, it is crucial to get headphones with a good microphone. Online classes can be challenging without the presence of the right tools. And even if the headphones have good audio quality, your kids' learning experience might be compromised if it has a poor mic.
Microphones in headphones can come in the form of either an attached flexible mic or built-in. Classic headphones would usually have that attached mic hanging close to the mouth area. This kind of mic usually delivers louder sounds as it is closer to the mouth. However, it is prone to picking up unnecessary muffled breathing sounds.
On the other hand, newer headphones usually appear with built-in microphones that offer the same crisp and clear speaking quality. These are also considered less susceptible to breaking because there is nothing for users to grab or bend.
While learning remains online or in hybrid setups, equiping your children with the tools they need for a more seamless class experience can go a long way in helping your kids participate and focus more in class.
A pair of fully-padded headphones is the most ideal in terms of comfort since it can cushion the head and your kids' ears and prevent them from feeling uncomfortable. There are tailor-made headphones for kids because typical headphones can be too heavy and big for them. Headphones for kids are way smaller and lighter.
They have an average width of 13cm and a height of 16cm, making them a good fit for children’s small heads. These usually have headbands that are adjustable to their head size and are intentionally made lighter to avoid giving kids neck strain and muscle fatigue, especially when worn for a long time.
In choosing your child's headphones, do choose something that is light weight, appropriately sized, with comfortable earpads. But remember that no matter how comfortable the headphones, your child should have a break from them at least once every hour.
With the variety of headphones for kids available in the market, you have the freedom to choose from either wired or wireless ones. Depending on preference, each has a fair amount of advantages to offer.
Although it’s usually the adults that rave over wireless Bluetooth headphones, this kind of headphones can be beneficial to your kids, too, as it gives more mobility and does not, in any way, hamper their movements.
Because of the distance that might allow students to lose focus, online learning is intentionally made more interactive and less boring. Teachers have been resorting to activities that really require the students to actively engage – hence, the kids move a lot.
Wireless headphones are good for kids who like to chew or worry about things with their mouths. It also allows them more freedom of movement, which can be especially beneficial for more active or physical classroom activities.
On the other hand, wired headphones cannot offer the same mobility. However, it can ensure longer performance because you do not need to charge it. With this, you wouldn’t have to worry about your kid’s headphones running out of power in the middle of an online lecture.
Wired headphones generally tend to be more durable, are easier to repair, provide better sound quality, and tend to cost less than wireless headphones, making them usually the more effective, efficient and afforable choice.
Although it may seem trivial, the design of the headphones actually matters - especially to kids. Wearing headphones even just for an hour is not the most comfortable thing even for us adults, so why not make it a little fun for the kids by getting them one with the design they like?
Children would usually want their headphones to come in bright and colorful designs, not that it really affects the performance of the headphones. Still, it might actually help in motivating them to go on with their classes if that means wearing their favorite pink headphones with bunny ears!
Cute designs can motivate your child to wear headphones, especially if they're not used to the sensation yet. Have your child help pick out their headphones, especially if you know they may be resistant to using it.
From ₱1,349
JBL is a well-known brand when it comes to headphones and speakers because of its amazing sound quality. Get the best for your kid with these JBL Kids on-ear Headphones that are safe, comfortable, and lightweight. They're crafted to safely deliver the best sound, with a maximum decibel rating of only 80dB.
For maximum convenience, this pair of headphones has an anti-tangling cable with a mic and remote, so you never have to worry about the wires getting damaged in your child's bag. With all these headphones' features and bright-colored design, your kid can surely enjoy online classes, watching movies, and playing games like never before!
From ₱1,607
This pair of kids' headphones from JLab will certainly give you your money's worth, ticking all the features that you need for a great product. It's wireless and has a 24-hour battery life, so your child can move around freely and be as comfortable as possible while using it to attend class, watch movies, or play games.
These headphones' volume is regulated with a maximum decibel rating of 85dB, so your kid's ears are protected. It also has Shareport, which allows two children to listen to the same thing. This is possible through its three-inch 3.5mm Shareport AUX Cord that connects two JBuddies Studio Wireless Kids Headphones together.
From ₱435
Good quality headphones are an investment, especially since a lot of things are online now. Fortunately, this particular pair will withstand everyday wear and tear with its design. It has a fold-flat build, which means that it has 90˚ swiveling ear cups, so it can be stored easily and won't get ruined when your kid puts it in their bag.
It also has a nylon-braided audio cable, meaning the wire won't snap easily. Aside from the strong materials and smart design that this product has, it's also comfortable and safe for your child's ear. It has a padded head beam and ear cups, as well as a 94dB maximum decibel rating.
From ₱499
Almost everything has a wireless version nowadays. Without any wires holding you back from moving, wireless headphones have increasingly become popular, even among kids! Get your hands on these headphones from Mpow, perfect for when you're out and about.
It uses Bluetooth 5.0 with a Qualcomm QCC3003 chip, which ensures that your child is still connected to their device even if they're up to 33 ft. away from it. It has Hi-Fi stereo sound and a maximum 94dB decibel rating, which is a bit high but ensures your kids can have a good listening experience even in noisy environments.
From ₱599
Kids love eye-catching designs, so they're guaranteed to like this pair of headphones. It has cat ears and changing LED lights that are super cute. It comes in other colors like red, blue, and black, so you can get the color your child likes the best. Aside from their cute appearance, these headphones also have high-quality features.
For one, it has Hi-Fi stereo sound, so kids can listen to their online class, music, and movies clearly. It also has an adjustable attached microphone, so your kid's voice will transmit loud and crisp when reciting. Many users have left good reviews about this product, saying that it has great quality and their kids love it!
A good mic is essential for online learning since your kid will likely be asked to recite and interact with their classmates and teachers. These headphones actually have a noise reduction mic, which reduces the surrounding noise picked up when your kid uses the mic and speaks.
Your child also will have no problem wearing this pair of headphones throughout the school day since it's made with premium protein leather that feels soft on the head. They surely won't get restless in their online classes. Lastly, with the many color options available, all kids will love this product!
From ₱999
Online classes are usually a whole-day ordeal, so it's important for your kid to have a comfortable pair of headphones. This one sold by Curiosibox is made with skin-friendly material, so your child won't sweat a lot while using it, even if they're somewhere without air conditioning.
What's nice about these headphones is that they have background noise isolation, so your chikitings can concentrate on their online class better. It also has an adjustable attached mic, so they can be heard clearly when they speak. Lots of customers are happy with this product, saying that it delivers on all its promises.
From ₱919
These modern headphones are suitable for kids and teens of all ages. When used wirelessly, these headphones can last up to 15 hours, but if that's still not enough, you will always have the option to go wired with its aux line transmission support. They have options you can choose from based on the decibel levels: 85dB for kids and 103dB for teens.
Memory card playback is also supported, meaning you can play stories, songs, and more for your children without needing a device. You can take advantage of this feature during long road trips. Audio sharing is also possible, so kids can listen to the same things at the same time.
From ₱265
Almost every little kid has hopped on the unicorn fever. Who doesn't' love these mythical creatures of ethereal beauty? That's why these headphones come in a unicorn design, which will surely spice up your child's' remote schooling. It's complete with rhinestones and glitter, too!
Do not be fooled by its fun exterior, though. Several reviewers pointed out that the headphones actually deliver high-quality sound. They also mentioned that their kids love them and that they have great value for money. It also has several other features like noise reduction and comfortable ear cups!
From ₱439
This wired headset looks exactly like the classic headphones we are all used to. Marketed as an ‘online class’ pair of headphones, it has everything kids need for their online learning. It has a minimal design that makes it easy to navigate. It is also accompanied by a flexible microphone and volume switch.
To prevent kids from being distracted by external ambient noises, it has high-definition stereo drivers and noise reduction technology to help them focus. However, some reviewers pointed out that the headphones are more suited for communication purposes and not ideal for music use.
Here are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by Dr. Joey Cuayo-Estanislao.
There is no age recommendation for the use of headphones, but if there is a need for your child to use such a listening device, it's generally better to use headphones instead of earbuds. Earbuds, especially inner earbuds, can be more damaging to your hearing due to their proximity to the inner ear.
Any listening device can be damaging if the sound levels are not controlled. As a general rule of thumb, if you can hear the sound coming from your child's headphones, it's too loud. Always go for the lowest volume your child can listen to, and ask them to take frequent breaks from using the headphones.
As a rule of thumb, try to keep volume levels at half level, and your child should still be able to hear you speak to them even with the headphones on (unless they are noise-canceling, of course). You can also check the device the headphone receives sound from for output controls.
There are no set guidelines for this, but ask your child to take frequent breaks when using their headphones, at least once an hour. Even at volumes under 75 decibels, children should not listen to devices with headphones for more than 40 hours per week.
This kind of new learning setup might be taking a toll on your child’s condition, always check up on them and ensure their overall health. Why don’t you start by checking out these articles reviewing kids' products that can help your child’s emotional and physical health?
Author: Rica Victoriano
Re-Editor: Bianca Angela Dela Cruz
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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