On-ear headphones are a type of headphone that rests on the outer ear instead of completely covering the ear like over-ear headphones. They have smaller ear cups and a lighter weight compared to over-ear headphones, making them more compact and portable.
On-ear headphones are a popular choice for people who want a lightweight and comfortable listening experience. They are generally more breathable than over-ear headphones, which makes them a good option for use during physical activity or in warmer climates.
One of the benefits of on-ear headphones is that they often offer a more natural sound experience than earbuds, with better bass response and more open soundstage. They also provide some degree of noise isolation and can block out external noise to a certain extent.
However, the downsides of on-ear headphones include less effective noise isolation compared to over-ear headphones, which can lead to sound leakage and reduced sound quality in noisy environments. They may also be less comfortable than over-ear headphones for extended use, as the ear cups can put pressure on the outer ear and cause discomfort.