We asked, you told us: Wired headphones are best for audio quality

In our recent article covering the wired headphone revival, we ran a poll to understand why our community buys wired headphones. We received 154 votes, and the results are decisive. Y’all buy wired earbuds and headphones for the audio quality, first and foremost.

Results

In the poll, 154 participants answered the question, “Why do you use wired headphones and earbuds over wireless ones?” Well, 93 (61%) of you responded by saying, “They have better audio quality.” Given that this is a website for all things audio and generally attracts those already interested in sound quality, we arent’ too surprised by this. In fact, if anything, I am surprised this percentage isn’t higher.

15 (10%) of respondents said they prefer wired over wireless headphones because, “They’re more affordable.” and 13 (9%) of you said it’s because, “They’re easier to use.”

Given these results, our participants clearly have three top priorities: sound quality, price, and ease of use.

• Sound quality-conscious listeners: 61% of respondents buy wired earbuds and headphones for better sound quality.
• Budget-conscious listeners: 10% of respondents care about affordability and value when choosing wired over wireless headphones.
• Simplicity first listeners: 9% of respondents appreciate the plug-and-play listening experience that wired audio provides.
• Eco-conscious listeners: 7% of respondents purchase wired headphones because of their reduced carbon footprint compared to wireless headphones.
• Stylish listeners: 5% of respondents value wired buds and headphones as a way to express their style and fashion choices.
• Other: 8% of respondents choose wired, instead of wireless, headphones for other reasons not listed.

Our polling shows that our community doesn’t buy wired headphones for the nostalgia factor as social media may suggest.

Frequently asked questions about wired headphones