Headphones vary widely in quality, price and purpose. Whether you’re buying for music, gaming, commuting or exercise, it’s important to test and inspect carefully before committing — especially when buying second-hand.
Please note: This guide is for general information only. It does not constitute legal advice, and we do not accept liability for any loss arising from reliance on this guide.
General Checks
Before purchasing:
Inspect the headphones for cleanliness.
Check the audio jack (pin) for damage or bending. Most jacks are compatible, but confirm before buying.
If possible, bring the device you intend to use (phone, MP3 player, tablet, etc.) to test compatibility.
Test the Sound
Listen carefully:
Do both left and right channels sound equally strong?
Is the sound clear, without distortion?
Is the bass overpowering or the treble overly sharp?
Is there any crackling or inconsistent audio?
Avoid headphones with uneven sound or distortion.
Check the Cables
Inspect cables for fraying or exposed wires.
Pay particular attention to the ends near the jack and earcups, as these are common wear points.
Consider How You’ll Use Them
Think about where and how they’ll be used.
Earbuds are often better suited for exercise and gym use.
Over-ear headphones are generally more suitable for home, commuting or travel.
When testing, play content you genuinely enjoy — music, podcasts, audiobooks or games — as different headphones perform better with different types of audio.
Earbuds and In-Ear Monitors (IEMs)
Standard earbuds sit loosely in the ear and are often included with smartphones.
In-Ear Monitors (IEMs):
Offer a tighter seal inside the ear.
Typically provide better sound isolation and audio quality.
Before trying second-hand earbuds or IEMs, ensure they are clean and hygienic.
Over-Ear and On-Ear Headphones
Ensure they sit comfortably on your head.
Check that headbands are adjustable.
Confirm ear cushions are intact and not worn.
Higher-quality headphones tend to block more ambient noise.
Some full-sized models may feel heavy — ensure comfort over extended use.
Wireless Headphones
Wireless models connect via Bluetooth.
Before purchasing:
Confirm the headphones successfully pair via Bluetooth.
Check that your device supports Bluetooth connectivity.
Test the battery life if possible.
Older audio systems may not support Bluetooth.
Common Features Explained
Noise Cancelling: Uses built-in microphones to reduce external sounds.
Volume Limiting: Restricts maximum output, often around 85dB, useful for children or hearing protection.
Biometric: Some headphones monitor heart rate for fitness tracking.
Surround Sound: Provides directional audio, often used for gaming.
Hands-Free: Includes a built-in microphone for calls.
Test any advertised features to ensure they function properly.
Gaming Headphones
Gaming headsets combine headphones with a microphone.
Before buying:
Confirm compatibility with your console or PC.
Test both sound quality and microphone clarity.
Ensure they are compatible with your console generation.
Some headsets are platform-specific and may not work across different systems.
Pricing
Headphones range from very low-cost models to premium brands costing several hundred euro.
As a guide:
Compare recent second-hand prices for similar models.
Be cautious of prices that seem unusually low.
Balance condition, brand and age when assessing value.
Quality often reflects price, but condition matters just as much in second-hand purchases.
Final Advice
Test thoroughly before buying.
Check for physical damage or audio issues.
Confirm compatibility with your devices.
Walk away if the seller refuses reasonable testing.
Taking time to inspect and test properly can help ensure your headphones deliver the sound quality and comfort you expect.
Contact Us
If you have any further questions or would like to chat, please reach out to our Customer Support team.