Headphones and earbuds are among the most commonly used accessories while traveling, at the gym, and even at home. Whether listening to podcasts or exploring new music, they allow users to create a little world of their own without outside distractions. But with so many different brands and styles, finding the right model can be difficult. Here are seven common mistakes people make when buying headphones and earbuds and how to avoid them:

Not researching enough
One must take time to research before buying anything. Since a pair of quality headphones or earphones can be expensive, individuals must check professional and consumer reviews. While reading about the device, customers should ensure it has the necessary features, such as noise cancelation, sweat and/or water resistance, comfort, and battery life.

Buying from unknown or non-credible brands
While the brand name isn’t everything, one must stick to gadgets from reputable and credible companies. Many generic or non-branded headphones and earbuds sell for less but are typically of poor quality. They may not be comfortable to use or compatible with one’s devices. Well-known brands also offer better warranties on their products than generic alternatives available in the market.

Getting the cheapest pair of headphones
Many people believe headphones and earbuds go bad within a year. As a result, they end up buying cheaper varieties every time. However, this is a common misconception. Quality headphones or earbuds can last three to five years when cared for and maintained properly.

Ignoring service and repair costs
Customers must carefully consider the brand’s after-sales support before investing in a pair of headphones or earbuds. One must try to estimate how much it would cost to repair the device if it stops working and whether there are service centers nearby. Repairing these accessories can be expensive, especially if they have advanced technology features.

Prioritizing style
Aesthetics are an influential factor in most purchasing decisions. However, when buying headphones or earbuds, one must prioritize comfort, wearability, and sound quality. These features can make or break one’s audio experience in the long run.

Not paying attention to battery life
With most devices bidding adieu to the audio jack, wireless headphones have become the rage today. However, to use wireless devices without interruptions, one must consider their battery life. Generally, earbuds have smaller batteries but come in a handy charging case, while larger over-the-head headphones have a larger battery backup.

Overlooking build quality
Assessing a headphone’s build quality may be a bit difficult, but it is an essential step of the buying process. To determine the build quality, buyers must look at the type of driver and materials used in constructing the gadget. Desirable features include dynamic, electrostatic, and hybrid drivers and the use of durable and cost-effective materials, such as graphene. For a balanced and safe sound profile, one must also look for a frequency range between 20 and 20,000 Hz and a sensitivity of 75 to 110 decibels. Paying attention to these features provides customers with a safe yet enjoyable auditory experience.