What is “Bone Conduction”?
Bone conduction is the transmission of sound that occurs when vibrations are pressed against a bone.
Typical sound transmission happens through the air in what is know as “Air Conduction”.
How do bone conduction headphones work?
Bone conduction headphones typical have a vibrating pad that rests on the cheekbone. Sound is transmitted from an audio device into the headphones (typically via Bluetooth) and the headphone convert the audio transmission into vibrations. The vibrations travel along the cheekbone (or side of the skull) directly to the inner ear where the vibrations are processed as sound.
Are bone conduction headphones more hygienic than standard headphones or earbuds?
Yes! Since bone conduction headphones never enter the ear canal, they remain cleaner and have virtually no risk of introducing foreign bacteria or other contaminants into the ear.
Can bone conduction headphones cause migraines? Can you use bone conduction headphones if you suffer from migraines?
Like most audio technologies, listening at loud volumes for extended periods of time may trigger headaches and even migraines in some people. The vibrations in the skull that occur when using bone conduction headphones can also trigger a migraine. When first starting out with bone conduction technology, we recommend limiting your use to short periods of time until you know how it will affect you. If you suffer from chronic migraines, you should consult your physician before use.
Can bone conduction headphones cause tinnitus? Can you use bone conduction headphones if you suffer from tinnitus?
There is limited research on the impact of bone conduction headphones on tinnitus. While nothing suggests that this technology will cause or aggravate tinnitus, we recommend consulting a medical professional before use if you suffer from this condition or have concerns about your hearing.
Can bone conduction headphones damage your ear drum? Can bone conduction headphones damage your inner ear?
While bone conduction headphones are less likely to puncture, irritate, or introduce foreign contaminants into the ear canal, using any type of listening device or headphone at extreme volumes can potentially damage your hearing. For more detailed information on the affects of headphone use and threats to your hearing health, we recommend you contact a licensed physician.
Do all bone conduction headphones have microphones?
While many Bluetooth bone conduction headphones also contain a microphone to allow them to function as a full headset for calls, not all makes or models have this feature. If you are looking for headphones with a microphone check out this article reviewing our top picks.
Can you wear bone conduction headphones if you wear glasses? Can you wear bone conduction headphones with sunglasses?
Yes, of course! Many models of bone conduction headphones are actually more comfortable to wear if you also wear glasses. Some manufacturers even offer sunglasses with headphones built in. Be sure to check out this article on the best headphones to wear with glasses.
Can other people hear your music when you are using bone conduction headphones?
While you may experience some sound leakage when using bone conduction headphones, it is much less common for nearby people to hear what you are listening to when compared to traditional headphones.
Will bone conduction headphones work on airplanes?
While bone conduction headphones will work on airplanes, due to the excessive ambient noise, we would recommend noise cancelling headphones for this situation.
Can you wear bone conduction headphones if you wear hearing aids?
Yes, many people actually find it more comfortable to use bone conduction headphones while also wearing hearing aids. Since these headphones work off of vibrations instead of air conduction like most hearing aids, the two devices can be used simultaneously without impacting the other. As always, we recommend you check with you doctor or hearing professional before trying this technology if you do currently wear hearing aids.