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Sometimes, wires are more hassle than they are worth for kid’s devices and, for that reason, the LilGadgets untangled pro premium wireless headset is a must-own. With built-in kid-friendly volume limitations, the audio experience is courtesy of 40mm drivers that offer an enhanced listening experience for music, books, movies and more. As for battery life, you can expect 12 hours of use and up to 180 hours of standby time before needing a recharge.
Fortunately, listening for that long is no problem with padded earcups that kids can use for hours at a time before feeling fatigue. Additionally, parents who host sleepovers will love the inclusion of the Shareport functionality, which allows other headsets to plug directly into the LilGadgets headset to share the audio that's coming from just one audio-producing device. If none of the above sells you, the knowledge that a portion every purchase of a LilGadgets headset goes toward bullying prevention in schools just might.
Built for kids ages four to 12, the MEE KidJamz KJ25 headphones are a superb budget choice with a built-in 85db volume limitation for preventing hearing damage. While volume limitations are encouraged with small children, the MEE does include a concealed switch that allows parents to remove the volume limitation in a noisy environment. The MEE’s are compatible with any device that supports a 3.5mm headphone jack, which includes Apple’s product lineup. The hypoallergenic build quality includes BPA-free plastics and an adjustable headphone alongside vinyl ear pads for a cushy and non-fatigue fit. Additionally, MEE includes a tangle-free cord with reinforced connectors and an ultra-flexible headband that can bend, twist and pull in any direction without breaking.
Traveling with children is difficult enough, so parents looking to simplify packing their children’s electronics should look at the JLab JBuddies folding headset. With volume limiting (85db) already built in, the JLab folds to a compact and travel-ready size of 5.5 x 4 inches with a pinch-free carrying case that can easily disappear in a backpack or carry-on. Aside from being travel-friendly, the JLab is manufactured with spill-resistant materials to ensure this headset pair is truly kid-friendly and kid-safe. The on-ear cups are pillow-soft and provide plenty of comfort for hours of wear, especially on a long-haul flight where keeping kids occupied is no easy task. As a final bonus for small children, the JLab includes eight 3D character stickers to stick on each ear cup for complete personalization.
With so many over-the-ear headset choices for kids, picking the very best is a tall order, but the Snug Play+ makes its case for a great audio experience and ultra-comfortable headset. Recommended for children ages three to eight, the Play+ features 40mm drivers that offer a terrific sound that rivals adult headsets. Even if kids can’t tell the difference, they’ll appreciate it all the same. Happily, the superb audio experience is still controlled with a built-in volume limiter, so they won't damage their eardrums.
Beyond sound, these lightweight headphones are built with high-quality, durable materials that can stand up to the wear and tear young kids will inevitably put this headset through. Furthermore, the padded foam is gentle on smaller ears and stays comfortable for hours at a time without interfering with lengthy listening sessions. The inclusion of Shareport technology allows for a quick and easy chain of multiple children listening to the same media device.
The lightweight and compact Votones headphones have a folding design that pairs well with softly cushioned earpieces. Comfort aside, the Votones offer both wireless and wired compatibility with a 3.5mm audio cable included for use with a computer, tablet or other devices that support an audio jack. The 2.5-hour charge time produces a musical experience that can last up to 10 hours and up to 60 hours on standby before requiring another recharge. Past battery life and comfort, the Votones really shines with support for FM radio and hands-free calling via Bluetooth 3.0 compatibility that connects to any compatible phone device.
A bonafide contender for the best overall spot, the Puro Sound Labs headsets are among the best-reviewed kid’s headsets online. With volume-limiting protection at 85db (blocking out 82 percent of background noise), the Puro still produces an excellent audio experience for children with 40mm custom dynamic drivers producing a sound that’s best compared to adult headphones.
Fully wireless, the Puro provides more than 18 hours of battery life, as well as 200 hours of standby (there's also a 3.5mm cable for non-wireless use). Fortunately, the wonderful sound is matched by standout comfort, thanks to a lightweight aluminum build that’s superior to the typical plastic build quality of competing kid headsets.
Uniquely styled, the Cozyphones headphones are unlike anything most parents have seen before. The soft fleece headband might seem unusual at first, but the level of comfort cannot be understated with ultra-thin 1/8-inch speakers providing a completely different look and feel especially for kids who dislike earbuds. Gone are the days of struggling with bulky over-the-ear headphones, instead this headset is all comfort, all the time. For children who have sensory issues, this lightweight and snug soft fleece headband (which is also washable) won't disappoint. Paired with a 36-inch flexible and braided cord, the 3.5mm jack is compatible with hundreds of media devices, including Apple.
Hearing protection - The single most important feature in headphones for kids is a volume limiter. You should choose headphones that output less than 85 decibels, and ideally keep your kids’ devices at an even lower volume than that.
Wireless - The problem with volume limiters is that some devices can overpower them. Choose wireless headphones for the maximum amount of protection, since it’s impossible for hardware to accidentally make wireless headphones produce sound louder than they are designed to deliver. The downside is that if the batteries die and you use a physical cord to plug the headphones in, you lose that extra protection.
Noise-canceling technology - This feature is more commonly associated with high-end headphones, but an investment in noise-canceling headphones is an investment in your kid’s hearing. Noise-canceling technology cuts down on outside sound, which lets your kids hear their music or videos better at a lower volume, which can keep their ears safe.