The 5 Best Earbuds For Small Ears in 2022 (Review & Buying Guide)
Perhaps you’re reading this article because you’re looking for a new pair of earbuds for small ears. Like any form of audio equipment, your earbuds will deteriorate over time. Once that happens, you’re stuck in a position where you’ll have to replace it quickly.
Imagine this: you’ve had your favorite set of earbuds for a few months. And all of a sudden, you can’t hear any sound from it. This is a common nightmare that occurs in every audio enthusiast’s life.
So how do you solve this problem? The first thing you’ll have to do is research multiple earbuds to see which one suits your preferences. However, this can be a daunting task for some, so we’ve created this guide to help you out.
We’ll explain the 5 best earbuds for small ears throughout this guide. Each earbud on this list has been selected due to its build quality, sound performance, and overall utility. We’ll even judge their disadvantages to give you a clear perspective on how they work.
Still, stuck? We have a buying guide and a FAQ section to help audiophiles make a conscious purchase decision. By the end, you’ll have enough information needed to get a pair of earbuds that are comfortable and give you access to enjoy music to your heart’s content.
If you are in a hurry here is a quick comparison table of the 5 best earbuds for small ears.
To help you choose the best earbuds for your ears in terms of quality, comfortability, and price below you will find detailed descriptions of the pros and cons for each one of them.
The Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) ranks #1 on our list. These wireless earbuds feature a more refined sound than their previous generation, making them a good option for audiophiles and musicians. It combines both advanced software and convenience to give you the best wireless sound experience possible.
Need earbuds with good sound performance? The Apple Airpods 2 has an H1 chip that provides low latency stable connection. This results in high-quality sound and allows the user to listen to their favorite songs on the go.
Since it is an Apple product, it does come with Apple Music enabled. This gives you access to over 60 million songs. Thus, having these earbuds will make listening to music a breeze as you can find your favorite song within Apple’s interface.
Apple has gained its recognition by building products with good design and build quality, and this is shown through their Apple AirPods. Even though they have plastic material, it feels great when charging them. On average, it will take 2-4 hours for the battery to become fully charged.
Regarding its build quality, the pods are compact and sturdy enough to fit inside your pocket. This is a great feature because you’ll want to keep the carrying case with you when traveling with them. While these are 2nd generation AirPods, they look similar to the 1st gen pods.
If you look underneath the charging case, you’ll find a Lightning port and a Bluetooth pairing button. What makes the AirPods unique? Some magnets are used to seal the lids completely shut. These magnets stay inside the case to protect the earbuds from further damage.
What’s the difference between the AirPods 2 and AirPods 1? The AirPods 2 have a small LED light that’s used for pairing and charging. Unlike the 1st gen that’s located inside the case, the AirPods 2nd generation is located on the front of the case.
Like any earbuds, you’re going to have to clean the Apple AirPods 2 consistently. To clean them, use isopropyl alcohol and q-tips. It’s best to clean them once a week to ensure they remain in good condition.
Users love the Siri functionality that comes with the AirPods 2. You can connect to another AirPod or have Siri send messages using the Siri feature. Thus, making it a great choice for users who want automation in their Bluetooth earbuds.
To connect the Apple AirPods 2, simply press “Connect” on the card that appears on the device. This will connect the AirPods to any device on your iCloud account. Since the connection process is so simple, many users find themselves connecting their favorite Apple products with these earbuds.
Unfortunately, the AirPod 2s are not waterproof. Most people tend to use these earbuds for running and the gym, but no IP rating verifies if the product is waterproof. So be careful when using these earbuds when moisture is present.
Overall, the Apple AirPods 2nd generation is the best earbud for small ears. Not only is it small enough to rest comfortably on our earlobes, but it produces a crisp and clear sound. Thus, giving you the best sound quality possible.
The Bose Quiet Comfort Noise Cancelling Earbuds rank #2 on our list. Performance-wise, they sound better in comparison to the Apple AirPods 2. So if you want a pair of earbuds, that’s better for playing music in Hi-Fi sound, this is the best option.
When it comes to noise-canceling, the earbuds have three noise cancellation settings. It also has a transparency mode (number 0 on the headphone settings), which allows you to let outside sound in. Thus, it can eliminate loud background noises such as a plane engine, allowing users to enjoy their music to the fullest.
Regardless of what music you’re playing, the high sounds have increased detail without sounding shrill or harsh. However, these earbuds for small ears don’t have a way to adjust the EQ. So it can be a slight issue for the extreme audiophiles out there.
Also, these wireless earbuds have enhanced comfort when placed around your ears. For instance, they feature StayHear Max earbud tips that have integrated wings. The largest earbud tip gives you a secure fit and tight feel to not fall off when using them.
In addition, these earbuds have Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity. This improves connection and can be paired with iPhone and Android devices. It allows you to switch through devices manually, but it can be difficult for Windows PCs.
The Bose Noise Cancelling Earbuds have an IPX4 rating. This makes them more weather-resistant and sweat-resistant than the AirPods 2. So if you need earbuds for your next trip to the gym, these earbuds will get the job done.
Need earbuds for important phone calls? The Bose Noise Cancelling Earbuds come with a sidetone feature that helps you hear your voice. This gives you the ability to adjust your vocal settings so you’re not shouting.
The Bose Noise Cancelling Earbuds are #2 because they don’t have the same call quality as the AirPods 2. That’s because their noise reduction isn’t as potent. Still, these earbuds are good at reducing ambient sound, allowing you to get the most out of your sound.
However, these earbuds are bass-forward and sound suitable for EDM and Hip-Hop tracks. But its low end is powerful enough to use for other genres. Once the music plays through your ears, it will have a richer and broader soundstage than competing devices.
The Bose Noise Cancelling Earbuds have over 6 hours of battery life within one charge. This is less than the AirPods 2, which has over 24 hours of battery life after 5 hours of charging. So be prepared to charge the earbuds at least twice throughout the day.
Users also like the customization features that come with this device. You can customize the controls and sound features you use most often. And it allows you to control the volume by either swiping up or down on the earbuds.
The QuietComfort Earbuds helps the vocals stand proud. It has a deep bassline that provides more texture to the sound. This gives it a rich and smooth sound that keeps the music resonating in your ears.
Mainly, the Bose QuietComfort Noise Cancelling Earbuds is a great all-rounder set of earbuds. Not only does it have great noise-canceling functionality, but also it provides high-quality musicality. Thus, making it a good choice if you want to experience supreme sound while remaining comfortable on your ears.
The Beats Studio Buds are #3 due to their active noise cancellation and sound quality. They have support for Dolby Atmos and Apple’s Spatial Audio. Thus, giving you a versatile set of earbuds that can be used for any occasion.
Weighing in at 5.1 grams, the Beat Studio Buds are lightweight and fit comfortably even if you have small ear canals. And it includes a micro-venting hole that reduces the pressure that’s in your ear. With its three sizes of silicone ear tips, the user can choose which one fits their ears best.
The controls are intuitive, which allows you to enjoy your sound immediately. Press the button once to toggle the play/pause. Press it twice to skip a track, three times to go backgrounds. You can even long-press the button to open the voice assistant, but that’s as far as the device goes for sound utilization.
Why does it rank #3? Because it has a battery life of 5 hours through noise cancellation. This is lower than the Boise Noise Cancellation Earbuds (6 hours) and the AirPods 2 (24 hours). Still, it gives you enough time to play music at a reasonable level.
After unboxing the Beats Studio Buds, you’ll notice a USB-C charging cable. The case is bright red and is sturdy enough to take for extended travel. Thanks to its build quality, users like the Beats Studio Buds for casual music listening.
Once you’ve found the correct fit, you can place the earbuds in your ears and start enjoying music. While the earbuds don’t allow you to hear sound with Lossless Audio, you can still listen with the Spatial Audio feature. This sounds great when played through your ears, giving you a lot more utility out of these earbuds.
The noise cancellation feature works very well. However, it does need to catch up with the Bose and Apple earbuds on this list. It needs to improve the design and noise cancellation to get the noise out of your ears.
The call quality is lacking compared to the other three products on this list. While it works well inside, you won’t be able to hear it because of the traffic and ambient noise in the background. Still, it is a good tool if you want to have quick phone calls with friends.
The sound comes from an 8.2mm dual-element diaphragm driver. It has a flexible outer surround and a central rigid position. Both have a two-chamber acoustic design, which looks great when music plays out of them.
Plus, the acoustic nozzle has a laser-cut micro vent that reduces pressure on your eardrums. Users can feel the comfort and security from the pre-fitted silicone ear tips, as it feels more relaxing on the earlobes.
They deliver a positive, clear sound and have a secure fit on the ears. While it does have a harsh treble, it has a sound profile that’s useful for people wanting to hear music at a lower frequency. Go for the Beats Studio Buds if you want the best wireless earbuds for small ear canals that are simple yet stylish at the same time.
The TOZO T6 Wireless Earbuds are suited for users who want an affordable way to enjoy their music. It features a sturdy case with strong magnets that keeps it sealed shut. The magnets near the earbuds are also good, with no rattling to dislodge them from your ears.
Looking at the front of the case, you’ll notice 4 LED lights that indicate its battery status. You’ll also see a bottom flap that covers the Micro-USB charging port. The earbuds are IPX8 waterproof, as they can be submerged underwater for a max of 30 minutes.
Battery life is a must when looking for good earbuds, and the Tozo T6 fails to disappoint. You’ll have over 6 hours of use when it’s off the charger and 24 hours when it’s on the charger case. Thus, totaling about 30 hours of longevity.
Some users find it difficult to use the T6’s Micro-USB charger. While the wireless charger helps reduce annoyance, having a USB-C charger would be better. It is durable, but some would think it’s an AirPod clone when viewing it.
The Tozo T6 is a very comfortable set of earbuds for small ears! They have six different tip sizes that give you a comfortable and smooth fit. Since the buttons are touch-sensitive, you won’t feel them pressing deeply on your ear when pressing the buttons.
Like most earbuds on this list, the TOZO T6 is compact and lightweight. This means that you can fit them easily in your pockets and take them with you. Try out the TOZO T6 if portability is something you value.
The earbud tips can fit virtually any user’s ears. While it doesn’t have a tab or hook design, they fit perfectly. Even if the user is jogging, jumping, or cycling, they will remain held in place without falling off or wagging.
It has a charging case that is small enough to protect your earbuds without losing them. When you place them in the case, the batteries are topped off. This ensures that you don’t have to consciously charge them all the time.
Since the TOZO T6 is Bluetooth 5.1 enabled, it uses the AVRCP, A2DP, HFP, and HSP profiles. This gives you the latest standards when dealing with audio quality and clarity. So if you want some simple earbuds with versatile sound functionality, the T6 is your best bet.
According to its sound performance, the T6 excels in crispiness and clarity. On the other hand, the bass wasn’t impressive. The highs and mids sound good, but the bass and lows sound lackluster than higher-ranked earbuds on this list.
One issue lies in its passive sound range. Since they are earbuds, they pass the outer ear, which is necessary to create a speaker-like soundstage. Its closed-back design won’t give you the open sound like open back earbuds such as the AirPods two and the Bose Noise Cancellation earbuds.
Basically, you should get the TOZO T6 if you’re looking for cheap yet effective earbuds for small ears. It has good sound clarity and a wireless range of up to 30 feet. So, get these earbuds if you can, as they will help you enjoy your music at a reasonable price.
Last on our list is the 1MORE Quad Driver in-Ear Earphones. They feature three armatures and a diamond-shaped carbon dynamic driver. Thus, making them a pair of earbuds that’s worth its value.
It features a hybrid multidriver with advanced configurations. This allows the earbuds to have specialized drivers to recreate different audio frequencies. The carbon driver is used to recreate the mids and bass while the armatures are divided into two parts; one armature handles the upper ranges while the other two manage the lows and bass.
The IMOR in-Eat Earphones perform well in that category when it comes to durability. For instance, it contains a Kevlar core cable, which enhances its sturdiness and gives you a tangle-free listening experience.
Also, it features a built-in chip that allows users to connect to Apple and Android devices. And it streamlined audio controls that allow you to change the volume, make phone calls, and skip songs. Thus, giving the user complete audio control when using this device.
The 1MORE Quad Driver Earbuds offers meticulous detail, which helps improve its aesthetic value. For example, it has a clear satin matte finish and appealing graphics to see what the earbuds look like. There’s no marketing gimmicks, propaganda, or shouty graphics, just a simple set of earphones that fit nicely on your small ears.
But, users that have small ears might feel irritation with the earphones’ wide housing. It is difficult to place them on their outer ears, resulting in minor discomfort. But for users with average or large ears, they will fit fine.
The headphones have an all-metal housing and have a turbine shape. This means that they are tapered to a wide area of your ears and are at a point of the furthest distance of the ears. It has a short nozzle and a perforated metal sheet, which is better than low-quality earphones that have plastic sheets for protection.
One of its unique features lies in the appearance of its cables. It’s a twister copper and red and black wires that are placed inside a rubberized sheath. It has great tangle resistance and low microphonics, which is a common issue for earbuds with weaker cables.
The earbuds have a metal case splitter, but it isn’t a slider because of the inline/remote mic. It has a high-quality remote that has a metal finish. Thus, giving the user control over their sound settings to help them fully engage with their music.
In addition, the earbuds have an excellent midrange sound. This helps the vocals and string sound clearer when listening to music. The lows have strong detail, resulting in a stronger listening experience.
Check out the 1MORE Quad Driver Earbuds if you want functionality, simplicity, and quality. The buttons have a clicky and smooth feel when pressing against them. It still retains good audio quality, but its lack of comfort for some user places it lower on the list.
Pros
Four drivers
Good build quality
iOS/Android Compatible
Cons
Uncomfortable foam seal tips
Average microphone
What to Consider When Buying Earbuds for Small Ears
Let’s face it, getting earbuds for small ears is an extensive process. There are so many factors to look into that it can leave you overwhelmed if you’re not careful. Continue reading this section to see what important aspects you should remember before purchasing.
Price
Price is the most important factor to consider when looking for earbuds for small ears. While there are cheap earbuds that you can buy, we’d strongly advise doing so. Good earbuds don’t come at basement prices, as they might have low-quality materials and sound options.
You’ll want to buy earbuds that have high-quality Bluetooth functionality made by Qualcomm. You can opt for the TOZO T6 or the 1MORE Earbuds if you’re on a budget, as they have Bluetooth features and improved sound quality. Make sure the earbuds have high-density batteries so they can last longer than an hour through charges.
High-quality earbuds don’t come cheap, so expect to pay what you ask for. If you want earbuds for the long term, you’ll have to pay extra to get the most out of them. Try out the AirPods 2 or Bose Noise Cancellation earbuds if you need more high-end earbuds when listening to your favorite songs.
Sensitivity
The sensitivity measures the loudness of your earbuds. The SPL is the metric for sensitivity, and the higher the SPL, the louder the max volume.
For the most safety, look for earbuds that have a medium range of sensitivity. Anything higher than that will lead to hearing loss and can cause long-term damage to your ears.
Frequency
The frequency (Hz) measures how many frequencies your earbuds will repeat. Knowing the correct frequency response can help you determine the right device if you listen to a certain genre of music.
If you want to listen to music with a lot of bass, go for a pair of earbuds with a low bass frequency.
Ear-Tips
Ear tips are essential when you’re seeking comfort out of your earbuds. Silicone tips that are too shallow or too small won’t result in good sound. Additionally, you’ll have to deal with external noises when listening to music.
Due to the fact that most wireless earbuds for small ears need to be stored in case after usage, using after-market ear tips isn’t always possible.
So you’ll need to make sure that your earbuds come with a range of ear tips so that it fits your small ear canals correctly and form a good seal. Comfort and fit are important when using earbuds – and having earbuds that don’t fall off when running and remaining comfortable on your ear is essential.
Controls
You’ll want a set of earbuds that’s easy to configure and operate. Higher-end models will have buttons or controls located on the earpieces. This feature allows you to take phone calls, make voice commands, and increase volumes.
Cheaper earbud models don’t have controls, so you’ll have to keep your smartphone nearby when using them. The best earbuds for small ears can pause the music automatically once you remove the earbud from your ears. While they are worth it, you should aim for earbuds with responsive controls.
Volume
Not all earbuds were created equal in terms of volume control. Some earbuds have to be cranked to the maximum level, while others can produce clear sound at 50%. When comparing different earbud models at the shop, look for volume control.
Wireless earbuds are good for listening to music without dealing with tangled wires. The only issue is its fit and battery life. Before buying a pair, make sure that the wireless earbuds fit correctly on your ears to achieve maximum sound quality.
Earbud Specialization
Earbuds come in different forms and are used for various purposes. When selecting one, make sure it’s a set of earbuds that suit your needs. For instance, if you’re jogging, having earbuds with a secure fit is necessary.
Here are the most common earbud types you’ll find:
Sweat Resistant
Are you an athlete that tends to run or jump often? If so, you should opt for sweat-resistant earbuds. Sweat-resistant earbuds are designed to block out accumulated moisture that’s obtained through sweat.
Sound Isolation
As its name suggests, these earbuds reduce ambient noises so you can continue to enjoy your favorite music. It’s great for listening to music when you’re stuck in crowded areas. For practice, take your earbuds outside and see if you can still listen to music with them.
Bluetooth
If you want more convenience, you need to get earbuds with Bluetooth functionality. These earbuds work by connecting to your device via Bluetooth technology. Bluetooth earbuds give you more freedom, especially if you’re doing sports or any extensive physical activity.
Noise Cancellation
Noise cancellation earbuds block out ambient sounds from your environment. These are great earbuds to use if you want to sleep as they will help you sleep throughout busy and noisy surroundings.
FAQs About Earbuds for Small Ears
If you’re still stuck on what to buy, continue to read this section. We’ll answer the most frequently asked questions that occur when buying earbuds for small ears. This will give you further clarity on the mechanics of your earbuds and aid you in buying the right earbuds for you.
What is Impedance?
The impedance measures how much opposition your earbud’s circuits provide when a current is applied to it. As a rule of thumb, the higher the impedance, the less current that can flow through. To get the most sound quality, you’ll need to get earbuds that have the same impedance as the source.
How Long Will Earbuds Last?
Your earbuds will last from around six months to 2 years. The longevity of your earbuds depends on how often you care for them. If you’re extremely careful and handle them with care, they can last longer than that. However, you have to remember that they might give up on you after the first year of using them.
Because of this, we’ll have to draw attention to the factor that plays the biggest role in your earbud’s longevity; how much you’re willing to pay for them. The less you pay for your earbuds, the faster they’ll expire after continuous usage.
What Reduces My Earbuds Lifespan?
Multiple factors can ruin the quality of your earbuds. Here are some of them.
Pulling the Cord
Instead of pulling the plug, some users will pull the cord because it appears faster to do so. However, you’re placing your earbud cords at risk. Pulling the cord damages the internal wiring of the earbuds, making them sound less efficient over time.
High Volume
When listening to music at a high volume, your earbuds have to exert extra electrical energy. Try to keep your earbud’s maximum listening volume to 70%-80% for the most safety.
Moisture Exposure
You can have the best earbuds in the world, but they can become destroyed after being submerged underwater. Even if it has a high IPX rating, it’s best to limit the moisture exposure as much as possible. If you’re using your earbuds when working out, expect their lifespan to be reduced.
Wrong Carrying Case
It’s easier to place the earbuds into a satchel or pocket for more convenience. However, this leads to damage to the internal wiring, and you can easily avoid this. You’ll find hard storage cases on the higher-end earbuds, so you should consider using these.
Conclusion
To conclude, finding the right earbuds for small ears is crucial to enjoying your favorite music. The main factors you’ll need to consider are the price, sound performance, and the comfort of the earbuds. By considering these factors, you’ll make a more conscious buying decision.
Get the Apple AirPods 2nd Generation or the Bose Noise Cancellation earbuds if you’re looking for high-end earbuds. For something that’s in the middle ground, go for the Beats earbuds.
Purchase the TOZO T6 or the 1MORE Earbuds if you’re looking for something affordable and effective. By buying any of the 5 best earbuds for small ears, you’ll leave with a reliable set of earbuds that will help you enjoy your music to the fullest.
Music is the lifeblood of my veins. I love to listen, play and write music. Being a music band manager is what I love to do mostly because I love working with artists on their personal branding and brand building while helping them find the next level of success.
