Headphone impedance: 16 or 32 - which is better? What does this mean and what does it affect

Which headphone impedance is better: 16 or 32?

Headphone impedance, scientifically called acoustic impedance, is a complex value that represents the resistance of a sound environment. Any portable or mobile device has an amplifier, which is necessary to generate fluctuations in the output voltage of the AF (audio frequency). It is these vibrations that cause the activity of the dynamic heads, which emit sound waves.

The average output voltage level in all devices (and classes of devices) is different. Acoustic impedance, which is measured in ohms, directly affects the volume and clarity of the sound, so you need to pay attention at this point first of all if you want to enjoy really high-quality sound. The 16 and 32 ohm models are the most popular on the market, and traditionally the low impedance models are considered the best headphones for smartphones. This is exactly what consultants who are not familiar with the laws of physics tell us in stores of household appliances and electronics.

In fact, do not forget that at the moment of increasing the volume in the connected device, the voltage level changes at the output, and not the power, therefore, it is necessary to compare two different models not in terms of the volume level, but in terms of the maximum voltage. This means that the sensitivity of the headphones will be much higher in low-impedance models, but keep in mind that in this case the power consumption will also significantly increase, that is, charging for headphones with a resistance of 16 ohms will end faster compared to models with 24 and 32 ohms. Therefore, if the volume in the 32 Ohm headphones suits you perfectly, it is better to choose these particular models, especially when it comes to devices with a weak battery. If you want to listen to music louder, we advise you to look for high-quality headphones with an impedance of 16, 18 or 22 ohms.

Low impedance headphones rating: TOP-8 best models

If you have already decided what impedance in the headphones will be most suitable for your model of smartphone or audio player, the only thing left is to choose from a huge assortment of the highest quality product at the best price. To make this really daunting task easier, we've ranked the best 16- and 32-ohm acoustic impedance headphones and detailed the pros and cons of each model. This will help you to finally make sure of the correctness of your choice, as well as avoid unnecessary spending on equipment with a frankly overpriced.

Headphones with 16 ohm impedance

In this section, we will introduce you to the very best headphones with an acoustic impedance of 16 ohms. These are inexpensive headphones with average sound quality and clarity that are suitable for short-term use, such as during a morning or evening run.

Koss KEB32

Koss KEB32 is one of the most budgetary models in China, which belongs to the FitBuds series. This is a sports series, so all models are made in several bright juicy colors (green, red, blue, purple and yellow-green). A feature and at the same time a "trick" of these headphones is the fact that Dara Torres, a four-time winner of silver and bronze medals of the Olympic Games in the category "Sports Swimming", took part in the development of the appearance and design.

The earbuds have a smart design, durable cable and light weight. Their body is made of washable plastic, from which traces of dirt, dust and sweat can be easily removed. The acoustic impedance of this model is 16 ohms, but, despite this, they create a sufficiently high-quality and clear sound.The disadvantages with regards to the sound include a small range of low frequencies, but this is not particularly critical given the more than democratic price.

Main characteristics:

• name / manufacturer - Koss KEB32;
• headphone type - in-ear headphones;
• connection - wired;
• acoustic system - closed with two sound channels;
• acoustic impedance - 16 Ohm;
• maximum volume - 100 dB;
• features - sports series;
• the average cost is 400 rubles.

Koss KEB32 are good and inexpensive headphones with a 3.5 mm plug and an acoustic impedance of 16 ohms. Of course, the model has its drawbacks, but given the low cost, you can close your eyes to them, especially since the sound quality of this model is quite decent. When making a choice in favor of this model, keep in mind that the ear cushions in it are made of silicone with increased rigidity, to which you need to get used to.

Kitsound mini

Kitsound Mini is a good wired headphone with standard characteristics for the budget category, made in China. They are very light (weighing only 33 g, which is 2-2.5 times less than any other headphones), have a plastic case and a 3.5 mm plug that allows you to connect them to any smartphone, tablet, player or e-book. An important feature that determines the higher price compared to analogs is the presence of a built-in microphone, so these headphones can also be used as a headset for conversations when the hands are busy. For the same purpose, the model is equipped with a one-button remote control, which, when connected to a smartphone, allows you to quickly receive a call, and after the end of the conversation, switch to listening mode with one touch.

Main characteristics:

• name / manufacturer - Kitsound Mini;
• headphone type - in-ear headphones;
• connection - wired;
• acoustic system - closed;
• acoustic impedance - 16 Ohm;
• maximum volume - 100 dB;
• features - Mini series;
• the average cost is 800 rubles.

Considering that the Kitsound Mini headphones can also be used as a headset, they could well compete for a higher line in our rating, but we give them only the penultimate place for low quality and fragility. Overall, this model is well suited for listening to music while jogging, cleaning and doing other things, but it certainly isn't worth the money.

Philips SHE3555

Another low-impedance headphone made in China is Philips SHE3555. Philips company is known all over the world as one of the most reliable manufacturers of household appliances and electronics, therefore the products of this brand are traditionally of high quality and meet all the standards for this category of goods.Philips SHE3555 headphones feature an elongated oval shaped universal sound tube and specially designed ergonomic ear cushions for a comfortable fit and prevent equipment from falling out of the ear. This model belongs to the Upbeat series and has powerful emitters, thanks to which a very clear and high-quality stereo sound is achieved. These headphones also differ from previous samples in the ability to adjust the volume and control playback.

Main characteristics:

• name / manufacturer - Philips SHE3555;
• headphone type - in-ear headphones;
• connection - wired;
• acoustic system - closed with two sound channels;
• acoustic impedance - 16 Ohm;
• maximum volume - 101 dB;
• features - powerful emitters;
• the average cost is 600 rubles.

Philips SHE3555 is a classic headphone in a traditional style in four standard colors: black, white, blue and red. Like most of the products under the Philips brand, they are of a fairly high quality, and as for the sound, there is absolutely nothing to complain about (do not forget that in this section we are considering models with an acoustic impedance of 16 ohms).

Headphones with 32 ohm impedance

Headphones with an acoustic impedance of 32 Ohm are more expensive than 16 Ohm models, but they also have an order of magnitude better sound quality. Most of these headphones are wireless models that connect to a mobile or portable device using a Bluetooth module.

JBL Tune 205BT

The JBL Tune 205BT wireless headphones feature built-in Pure Bass technology to keep your speaker sound clear, spacious, stable and powerful, no matter what type of music you prefer. The design of the earbuds is very thoughtful: the housing is lightweight and the earbuds are anatomically shaped ergonomically for a comfortable fit. These features make the earbuds comfortable to wear, even if you listen to music for hours on end. A full charging cycle of this model is enough for 5-6 hours of active use, and the durable cable does not fray and does not get tangled.

Main characteristics:

• name / manufacturer - JBL Tune 205BT;
• headphone type - Bluetooth headphones;
• connection - wireless;
• acoustic system - closed;
• acoustic impedance - 32 Ohm;
• maximum volume - 100 dB;
• features - fast charging;
• signal range - 10 m;
• the average cost is 2,000 rubles.

The JBL Tune 205BT headphones are among the five best-selling wireless models, as they differ not only in a completely affordable price, but also in good sound quality.Minor cons, in general, do not affect the basic functions of the device, but if you are looking for not only good headphones, but also a high-quality headset, it is better to take a closer look at other models - the quality of the microphone is frankly lame here.

Xiaomi Mi Basic

Xiaomi Mi Basic is one of the most popular low impedance headphones with wireless data transmission via high speed Bluetooth connection. They are great for listening to audio content while walking, jogging or exercising, as they are optimized for sound isolation from a closed speaker system. The model is equipped with a built-in microphone and voice control, as well as a powerful battery that lasts almost a week of active use. A special charging case, two pairs of interchangeable earbuds made of soft silicone of increased density, indicators for switching on and charging level - all these are pleasant bonuses that make using the device not only simple, but also as comfortable as possible.

Main characteristics:

• name / manufacturer - Xiaomi Mi Basic;
• headphone type - Bluetooth headphones;
• connection - wireless;
• acoustic system - closed;
• acoustic impedance - 32 Ohm;
• maximum volume - 100 dB;
• features - a capacious battery;
• signal range - 10 m;
• the average cost is 2600 rubles.

Of course, the price of the Xiaomi Mi Basic headphones is rather high, but if you consider that this is a wireless model, then it can be called almost "penny", especially since the Xiaomi brand has long established itself as one of the best manufacturers of electronic and digital gadgets.

Philips SHB4205WT / 00

Philips SHB4205WT / 00 wireless headphones, which are also a high-quality stereo headset, are the perfect choice for those who enjoy active life and anyone who often listens to music or other audio files from their smartphones or other mobile devices. These earbuds pick up a signal using a high-speed connection at a distance of up to 10 meters, do not fall out of the ear even during running and other sports activities, and on top of that, they have a stylish design. Additional advantages include a comfortable, ergonomically shaped neck strap that does not chafe the skin even after prolonged use, as well as high-quality surround sound and an effective passive noise cancellation system. The manufacturer considers the presence of fashionable glossy inserts on the plastic case and the presence of convenient controls to be a good solution.

Main characteristics:

• name / manufacturer - Philips SHB4205WT / 00;
• headphone type - Bluetooth headphones;
• connection - wireless;
• acoustic system - closed;
• acoustic impedance - 32 Ohm;
• maximum volume - 105 dB;
• features - glossy metal inserts on the case;
• signal range - 10 m;
• the average cost is 2600 rubles.

Headphones Philips SHB 4205 WT / 00 - one of the most successful options among low-impedance models. Despite the fact that now a lot of young and ambitious manufacturers have appeared on the market, the Philips brand steadily “keeps the brand” and produces high quality goods, which traditionally occupy leading lines in all ratings.

Children's headphones

Children's headphones differ from adult models not only in appearance and characteristic children's design, but also in technical characteristics, among which the maximum volume level, acoustic impedance (impedance) and noise reduction system are especially important. Almost all children's models have an impedance of 32 ohms, since in childhood, when the hearing system is most vulnerable, the quality and purity of sound is especially important.

Harper Kids HK-39

The Harper Kids HK-39 headphones were developed by South Korean specialists specifically for children, taking into account the age characteristics and safety requirements for this category of users. All earbuds for these headphones have an anatomical shape and different sizes, adapted to each age group. These headphones are capable of reproducing sound in a wide frequency range with an acoustic impedance of 32 ohms, so the reproduced sound is clear and balanced, without any distortion or interference.

Like the "adult" models of the middle segment, this model is equipped with a multifunctional control button, with which you can switch between listening and talking modes (the headphones are equipped with a built-in microphone), as well as control the files being played.

Main characteristics:

• name / manufacturer - Harper Kids HK-39;
• headphone type - in-ear headphones;
• connection - wired;
• acoustic system - closed with two sound channels;
• acoustic impedance - 32 Ohm;
• maximum volume - 96 dB;
• features - children's model;
• the average cost is 600 rubles.

Harper Kids HK-39 - very bright, stylish and comfortable headphones for children and adolescents over 8-10 years old. The special feature of this model is the original case with a zipper, made in the same colors as the body of the product, which does not allow the wires to get tangled and facilitates their storage. High-quality sound, fashionable design, affordable price - this model definitely deserves to be among the leaders.

eKids 3X 8

A whole series of children's headphones is produced under the eKids brand, which will certainly appeal to both boys and girls. All of them are equipped with an adjustable headband, light weight and very bright performance based on the most famous and favorite cartoons of children: "Paw Patrol", "Minnie Mouse", "Star Wars", "Spider-Man", "Frozen" and others.

A very important feature of these headphones is the ability to limit the volume, so you can be sure that your child will not spoil his hearing by regularly listening to loud music. The device clearly reproduces sound in the widest frequency range and fits tightly on the head due to the adjustable arc. The model is equipped with a built-in microphone, and its case has a moisture-resistant coating, so even if a child gets into the rain, all parts and mechanisms will be reliably protected.

Main characteristics:

• name / manufacturer - eKids 3Xv8;
• headphone type - in-ear headphones;
• connection - wired;
• speaker system - open;
• acoustic impedance - 32 Ohm;
• maximum volume - 85 dB;
• features - splash proof, striking performance;
• the average cost is 1400 rubles.

The eKids 3Xv8 headphones are not just high-quality sound in any range, but also an original, modern and bright performance that will please any child. Such headphones can be a great birthday present if you do not already know how else to please the younger generation, which is becoming more and more difficult to surprise with something.

Now you know what impedance in headphones is, are familiar with the concept of "acoustic impedance" and you can decide for yourself which model will be optimal for you both in terms of sound volume and sound quality. When making a choice, do not forget that in addition to resistance, it is important to pay attention to the maximum voltage at the amplifier output, as well as the range of reproducible frequencies - this directly depends on the purity of the sound.