Knowing what to look for when it comes to picking the best headphones for kids in 2020 and 2021 is half the battle — especially now that more and more of us are stuck at home and working in shared spaces. Even when you know what you want, there’s still a lot to ponder, especially with constant technology changes. So Parentology has curated our favorite picks to guide you through the decision-making process.
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SleepPhones
Described as “the most comfortable headphones for sleeping,” SleepPhones were invented by a family practitioner and her video game-designing husband. Thin, padded, removable speakers rest inside a soft, machine-washable band that fits around the head. Available in a corded or wireless version, the band provides sound-proof, uninterrupted listening. While not designed specifically for children, spokesperson Andrew Dalton says the smallest size should fit those as young as six.
SleepPhones are ideal for travel, whether your child has a device or not. The parent company, Acoustic Sheep, developed an Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) edition of these headphones, meaning they’re the first to come preloaded with eight hours of deeply relaxing tracks from 16 popular ASMR artists. So whether your little one wants to watch his favorite episode of Paw Patrol 18 times, or nod off for the remainder of the trip, he’s guaranteed not to wake up with a speaker imprint on the side of his head.
Fast Facts:
- Rechargeable Battery Life: Up to 20 hours.
- Charging Time: three hours, USB charger included.
- Removable speakers in a hypoallergenic, machine-washable headband.
- Available in three sizes, many colors, and two SheepCloud™ fabric options.
- One-year limited warranty and 30-day return policy.
LilGadgets Untangled Pro Children’s Bluetooth Headphones
LilGadgets Untangled Pro headphones are award-winning, high-quality Bluetooth headphones designed for children as young as four years old. Reinforced with metal extenders for variable sizing and increased durability without the pinch, the Untangled Pro is covered in SoftTouch breathable mesh fabric for snag-free headband cushioning. A max volume of 93dB protects your child’s hearing, while the noise-reducing cups mean they’ll avoid having to turn the volume up.
We love that they’re compatible with nearly all Bluetooth devices. Have only one iPad, but more than one child? The integrated SharePort allows your kids to connect multiple headphones to one device for sharing in the fun, no splitters needed. LilGadgets allow your child to move freely with up to 30ft of leeway, so they can “cut loose” while staying connected.
From what we’ve seen, LilGadgets consistently receives high ratings and favorable online reviews. As a Gold Recipient of the Mom’s Choice Award (MCA), they’ve made both sound quality and your child’s safety top of mind.
Fast Facts:
- Has a safe-release jack
- 12 hours of listening, 180 hours of standby
- Includes a 3.5mm cable in case you run out of juice or don’t have access to Bluetooth.
- 40mm drivers render clear sounds, even at low levels.
- A one-year warranty and 100% satisfaction guarantee means a low-risk investment for maximum fun.
- Come with microfiber travel bag, which doubles as a device screen cleaner.
BuddyPhones
While we’ve reviewed these headphones in the past (read our full review here), BuddyPhones consistently pop up as the top-rated, safest headphones on the market. Available in a wireless or corded version, BuddyPhones are designed specifically for children; their site lists them as “Kid-Safe, Kid-Proof and Kid-Friendly”. Meticulously kid-tested, these headphones are durable, safe and adjustable.
A built-in sound control circuit caps the volume at safe levels to protect little ears, while noise-blocking technology keeps ambient sound out, reducing the need to turn the volume up. There are no harmful plastics in their construction (BPA-, PVC-, and phthalate-free materials only), and the cushion and headband are covered in hypoallergenic leather, which is easy to clean and prevents skin irritation.
Built for years of use, the flexible headband can be adjusted safely and won’t pinch or pull hair. The extendable sides are designed to fit the arch of your child’s head perfectly and comfortably. Made to bend twist and float, BuddyPhones can withstand anything active kids can throw at them. The cabled version has an audio splitter that allows up to four cables to connect to the same device, so you can teach your kiddos sharing is indeed caring. Unless one of them has a cold.
Fast Facts:
- Waterproof
- Volume limiter
- Battery life: up to 24 hours
- Charging time: 2 hours
- Wireless range: 33ft
- Lightweight, hypoallergenic composition
Best Headphones for Kids — Sources
BuddyPhones
LilGadgets
chaskingthedonkey.com
SleepPhones
Best Headphones for Kids in 2019