Listening to music through bones? We tested this technology that is becoming more and more popular.

Bone conduction headphones, once confined to a niche market, are now attracting a much wider audience. Athletes, cyclists, runners, or ordinary users concerned about staying alert to their surroundings: these models promise a different listening experience without obstructing the ears. Faced with the growth of this segment, Les Numeriques has launched its comparison and dedicated tests for bone conduction headphones.

A booming category

In between traditional portable audio and sports equipment, bone conduction headphones rely on a unique technology. Instead of delivering sound directly into the ear canal, they transmit vibrations through the cranial bones, usually at the temples. As a result, the ears remain open, allowing users to continue hearing ambient noises.

Shokz OpenRun Pro 2

• Price: Starting from 134.50 € (New).

  • Note from Les Numériques: 5 out of 5 stars.

  [Context: Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 is highly rated and available at competitive prices from various retailers.]

A category on the rise

The promise of comfort and security, especially outdoors, partly explains the increasing interest in these products. References are multiplying, prices range from entry-level to premium models, and technical specifications are becoming more complex. It was therefore necessary to dedicate specific coverage to them.

A dedicated testing protocol

With this new comparison, Les Numériques aims to analyze the leading bone conduction headphones on the market. Similar to other audio categories, these tested models will be evaluated based on a precise protocol to assess their qualities and limitations under comparable conditions.

Several criteria will be closely examined:

• Comfort during use, essential for prolonged or sports use
• Sound quality, often more delicate in this type of product
• Stability during physical activity
• Battery life
• Microphone quality for calls
• Water and sweat resistance

For the evaluation of audio quality, a specialized expert will judge the sound as conventional measurement equipment lacks the ability due to the design of bone conduction headphones.

The goal is to help readers identify the most suitable models for their needs, whether for running, cycling, walking, telecommuting, or daily portable listening.

Distinguishing the best models

Not all bone conduction headphones are equal. Some excel in lightweight and endurance, while others offer a more balanced sound reproduction. This comparison aims to provide clarity in a sometimes challenging product landscape, allowing consumers to differentiate true successes from more anecdotal products.