What headphones should I buy? A question we get asked regularly!

"What headphones should I buy" is a question we get asked regularly via email or with customers phoning us up. This may seem like a silly question, however there is a plethora of headphone styles out there, made for different purposes in different shapes and sizes with different bass outputs and so on. This makes it difficult when making a decision which headphone you should buy, or worst still, which headphone you should buy as a present.

Like previously mentioned, headphones come in many varieties so we thought we'd list them and give brief pointers in what to look for when deciding what headphones to buy.

Headphone varieties.

Over-ear headphones are bigger model frames that are designed to sit over the ears (obviously) yet are more likely to be noise cancelling as their main feature. Ideal for those wanting studio headphones and to hear each layer of sound. Richer sounds, and a bigger frame and are usually more expensive.

On-ear headphones are similar yet rest on the ear rather than completely covering. Most fashion headphones on the market would be classified as being on-ear as they are best design to be universal so could be used by children and adults alike by simply adjusting the headband on the headphone.

Neckband headphones are commonly used during sport as they are perfect for stability and keeping in place when exercising. Neckband headphones are designed to be lightweight and are relatively flexible, so if you're a gym bunny or a regular runner or walker then a neckband headphone might be the one for you.

Headphones for children are usually smaller in frame size and sometimes offer a volume limiter, which reduces the decibel output to be kinder to younger ears. Normally headphones come with 108dB as standard, however some headphones designed specifically for children restrict the decibels to 85dB. Look out for the funky designs as kids and ensure they are sturdy. Kids aren't exactly light handed and break things easily!

Headphones with microphone are perfect for the office or for mid-walk phone calls. A lot of earphones come with in-line microphones which double up as volume control, play/pause buttons and as mics. Most come with microphones these days, but adds a little extra onto the price so weigh up how much you'll actually use this feature.

Bluetooth headphones are all the rage at the moment. Bluetooth technology has come a long way in the last couple of years and for some headphones can synchronize in a matter of seconds. Coming in on-ar and neckband varieties, there are plenty of benefits for going for a Bluetooth version.

Fashionable headphones are a little more gimmicky, yet if you're on the tube in close proximity to others then surely you want your cans to be stylish? A lot of brands have their own icon designs on headphones or you could go arty and get specialised prints.

Gaming headphones are bulky and come with in-line microphones as it is ever so important for gamers to discuss their frags with other gamers on-line. Noise cancelling versions are best, but not essential. Lead length is important as longer the better. Perhaps go Bluetooth if buying for gaming.

Colourful headphones that really stand out from the crowd. Many years ago headphones were merely functional and were in boring black, white or silver to match the Walkman of the time. Now headphones are very much a fashion accessory and can match an outfit. The brighter the better!

Lightweight headphones are approximately 130g in weight and are feather light. If you plan to wear headphones throughout the day then look out for the headphone weight. Last thing you want is a neck ache.

Whilst all this seems straightforward, you must remember that headphones are electronical goods and are subject to be occasionally faulty. Ensure that the brand offers a good warranty scheme so you can speedily replace if the worst was to happen.