In-ear headphones are the smallest type of headphones, designed to be inserted directly into the ear canal. According to beyerdynamic’s headphone guide, when in-ear headphones are properly seated, the distance between the eardrum and the headphone’s membrane is very small, so only a little energy is needed to achieve a good volume. This makes them easily portable and a popular choice for commuting, sports, and everyday listening. For a broader look at how in-ear models compare to other designs, visit our Headphone Types Explained article.
What are in-ear headphones?
Beyerdynamic describes in-ear headphones as the smallest type of headphones, which are inserted directly into the ear canal. Unlike over-ear or on-ear models, they do not rest on or around the ear. Because the membrane sits close to the eardrum, only a small amount of energy is required to produce a good volume. This efficiency, combined with their compact size, makes in-ear headphones a practical choice for people who want easily transportable audio on the go, whether for work, gaming, sports, or daily commutes. Despite their small dimensions, they can deliver substantial sound performance.
Getting the right ear tip fit and seal
A secure and comfortable fit is crucial for in-ear headphones. Apple’s support documentation for AirPods Pro explains that the ear tips should create a good seal with the ear canal. When the fit is right, you experience better noise cancellation and music has a rich bass sound. AirPods Pro come with several sizes of ear tips, and the medium size is attached out of the box. Apple advises trying the medium tips first, then switching to a larger size if you cannot get a good seal, or a smaller size if the tips feel too large or uncomfortable.
To help you find the best fit, Apple provides an Ear Tip Fit Test for AirPods Pro 1 and AirPods Pro 2, and an Acoustic Seal Test for AirPods Pro 3. These checks are available in the Bluetooth settings on an iPhone or iPad. If the result suggests adjusting or trying a different ear tip, you can reposition the AirPods and run the check again, or switch to another size. Apple notes that you might need different sizes for your left and right ears. A proper seal not only improves sound quality but also enhances the effectiveness of active noise cancellation.
Ear tips are designed specifically for each AirPods Pro model to deliver the highest-fidelity audio experience, so Apple recommends using only the ear tips that come with your AirPods Pro. The tips have size markings (XXS, XS, S, M, or L) etched on the inside near the base. To remove an ear tip, grip it near the base and pull straight out with steady pressure; rolling the rubber edge inside-out can provide more leverage. To attach a new tip, align it with the oval-shaped connector and push until it clicks into place.
Sweat and water resistance: what the ratings mean
Many in-ear headphones are built to handle sweat and light moisture, but they are not waterproof. Apple states that AirPods Pro and several AirPods models are sweat and water resistant for non-water sports and exercise. Depending on the model, they carry an IPX4, IP54, or IP57 rating under IEC standard 60529. For example, AirPods Pro 1 have an IPX4 rating, while AirPods Pro 3 and their charging case are rated IP57, meaning they are dust, sweat, and water resistant and can withstand immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. However, Apple emphasizes that these products are not designed for use in water sports like swimming, or for showering.
Sweat and water resistance are not permanent conditions and can diminish over time. Apple warns that AirPods and charging cases cannot be rechecked or resealed for resistance. To avoid damage, you should not place them under running water, swim with them, wear them in a sauna or steam room, or expose them to high-velocity water. If your in-ear headphones get wet from sweat or a splash, wipe them with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth and let them dry completely for at least two hours before using them or placing them in the charging case. Avoid contact with soaps, shampoos, lotions, perfumes, solvents, or insect repellent, as these substances can negatively affect water seals and acoustic membranes.
Cleaning your in-ear headphones
Regular cleaning helps maintain performance and comfort. Apple’s cleaning guide for AirPods Pro provides detailed steps that can serve as a general reference, though exact procedures will differ by model. Always consult your own product manual first.
For AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods Pro 3, Apple recommends cleaning the meshes with a soft-bristled children’s toothbrush, micellar water that includes PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, and distilled water. After removing the ear tips, you dip the toothbrush in micellar water, brush the mesh in circles for about 15 seconds, blot the AirPod on a paper towel, and repeat the process two more times. Then you rinse the brush with distilled water and repeat the steps with distilled water to remove any remaining micellar water. The AirPods must dry completely for at least two hours before use or charging.
The body of the AirPods Pro can be wiped with a cloth slightly dampened with fresh water if exposed to substances that might cause stains, then dried with a soft, lint-free cloth. Apple advises against running AirPods Pro under water and against using sharp objects or abrasive materials. For AirPods Pro 3 only, there is an optional additional step: after sealing the ear tip hole with a finger, you can immerse each AirPod in a bowl of water for 10 seconds while shaking it lightly, then dab it on a dry cloth and allow it to dry for at least two hours.
Ear tips themselves can be pulled off, rinsed with water only (no soap or household cleaners), wiped with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth, and left to dry completely before reattaching. The charging case should be cleaned with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth; if necessary, the cloth can be slightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol, but no liquid should enter the charging ports. Apple also notes that keeping your headphones and skin clean and dry can help avoid skin irritation, especially if you have allergies or sensitivities.
Safe listening with in-ear headphones
The World Health Organization (WHO) explains that exposure to loud sounds over time can cause fatigue of the sensory cells in our ears, leading to temporary hearing loss or tinnitus. With regular exposure to loud or prolonged noise, the damage can become permanent, resulting in noise-induced hearing loss. Because in-ear headphones deliver sound directly into the ear canal, safe listening habits are especially important.
The WHO defines safe listening as behaviours that do not put your hearing at risk. The risk depends on the volume of sounds, the duration of listening, and the frequency of exposure. The higher the sound level and the longer the duration, the greater the risk. For example, the WHO states that you can safely listen to a sound level of 80dB for up to 40 hours a week. If the sound level is 90dB, the safe listening time reduces to four hours per week. At 100dB, the safe time drops to 20 minutes per week. To put these numbers in context, the WHO gives examples: normal conversation is around 60dB, a doorbell is 80dB, heavy traffic inside a car is 85dB, a shouted conversation is 90dB, a motorcycle is 95dB, and a hair dryer is 100dB.
To protect your hearing, the WHO recommends keeping the volume down, ideally setting your device’s volume level to no more than 60% of maximum. Using well-fitted, noise-cancelling headphones can reduce the need to raise the volume in noisy environments. In very loud places, earplugs or other ear protectors are advised. The WHO also suggests limiting time spent in noisy activities, taking breaks to let sensory cells recover, and monitoring sound levels with apps. Many smartphones have built-in features or downloadable apps that track in-ear sound exposure. If you have to raise your voice to be heard by someone at arm’s length, the sound level is likely too high.
Warning signs of hearing damage include persistent ringing in the ears (tinnitus), difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds, and trouble following conversations in noisy places. The WHO encourages anyone with these signs to get their hearing checked, and it offers the hearWHO app as a free tool for self-checking. If you suspect hearing loss, consult a doctor or audiologist.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my ear tips fit correctly?
Apple’s support documentation suggests starting with the medium-sized tips and checking for a comfortable seal. If the fit feels loose or you hear outside noise easily, try a larger size. If the tips feel too large or cause discomfort, switch to a smaller size. For AirPods Pro, you can use the Ear Tip Fit Test or Acoustic Seal Test in your device’s Bluetooth settings to confirm the seal. A good fit improves bass response and noise cancellation.
Can I wear in-ear headphones in the rain?
Many in-ear headphones, including AirPods Pro and AirPods models, have some degree of sweat and water resistance, but they are not waterproof. Apple states that its sweat- and water-resistant AirPods are designed for non-water sports and exercise, and they should not be used for swimming or showering or held under running water. If your headphones get wet, wipe them with a soft, dry cloth and let them dry completely for at least two hours before using or charging them.
How can I protect my hearing when using in-ear headphones?
The World Health Organization advises keeping the volume below 60% of the maximum, using well-fitted and noise-cancelling headphones to avoid turning up the volume in noisy places, and taking regular breaks from listening. Monitoring your sound exposure with an app can help you stay within safe limits. If you experience persistent ringing in your ears or difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds, have your hearing checked by a professional.
For more on in-ear headphones, including how they compare to other designs, visit our In-Ear Headphones category page. You can also explore the Headphone Types section or read the Headphone Types Explained article for a wider overview.
