Key Takeaways
- The safest headphones for kids have an 85 dB volume limit, which is the maximum level recommended by hearing health experts for prolonged listening. Look for headphones that explicitly state this limit or offer adjustable modes (74/85/94 dB).
- The best headphones for toddlers (ages 2-5) are wired, durable, and lightweight with strict volume caps. Top picks include the Ekids Wired Headphones and Clevy Kids Headphones.
- The best headphones for school-age kids (ages 6-10) balance comfort, wireless convenience, and safety. The JLab JBuddies Studio 2 and JBL Jr310BT are reliable choices for everyday use and online learning.
- The best headphones for tweens and teens offer more mature styling with maintained hearing protection. The Puro Sound Labs JuniorJams Plus delivers studio-quality sound with an 85 dB limit.
- The best noise-cancelling headphones for kids are ideal for travel and focus. The Tronsmart KH03 offers active noise cancellation, three selectable volume modes, and 70-hour battery life.
- Pairing safe headphones with parental control apps like Kidslox helps manage overall screen time, naturally limiting headphone use and supporting healthy digital habits.
While screentime has become an ever-present part of our lives (and a growing concern for many families), there’s one thing most can agree on: headphones can be a lifesaver when kids are using their devices!
And while it’s wonderful that kids can enjoy audio without disturbing everyone around them, many parents share a common worry: is all that listening actually safe for young ears?
Don’t worry. A combination of the right pair of headphones and a few sensible habits can help your child enjoy audio without damaging their hearing.
Let’s look at the best headphones for kids in 2026 and how knowing factors like volume limits and age-appropriate features can help you pick the right option.
Why Should Kids Have Certain Types of Headphones?
You might wonder whether your child actually needs dedicated “kids’ headphones”. There’s plenty of regular headphone options on the market, right?
The short answer is yes, kids do need special headphones! Children’s ears are still developing, and they’re more vulnerable to noise-induced hearing damage than adults.
What’s worse, damage from loud sounds is cumulative and often irreversible. This means the listening habits your child develops now can affect their hearing for the rest of their life.
Adult headphones typically don’t have built-in volume restrictions, which means a curious toddler or an excited tween could easily crank the volume up to levels that cause harm over time.
How Loud Is Too Loud for Children’s Ears?
Most hearing health experts recommend keeping sustained listening levels at or below 85 decibels (dB) for children.
To put that in perspective, 85 dB is roughly the volume of busy city traffic or a noisy restaurant. Sounds above this level, especially over extended periods, can gradually damage the delicate hair cells in the inner ear that are responsible for transmitting sound signals to the brain.
The best headphones for kids come with built-in volume limiters that cap the maximum output at around 85 dB. That means even if your child pushes the volume slider all the way up, the sound stays within a safer range.
Some models offer adjustable limits (such as 74, 85, or 94 dB modes) so you can choose a setting that matches your child’s age and listening environment.
How Long Can Kids Safely Wear Headphones?
Volume isn’t the only factor to consider. Duration of listening matters too.
Even at safe volume levels, listening for hours on end without breaks can fatigue young ears.
A sensible rule of thumb is to encourage regular breaks, perhaps every 30 to 60 minutes, and to keep total daily headphone use to a reasonable amount, often suggested as one to two hours for younger children.
This is where parental controls and screen-time tools can be genuinely helpful. By setting limits on device use, you’re also naturally limiting how long those headphones are in use.
What to Look for in the Best Headphones for Kids
Not all kids’ headphones are created equal. Here are some of the key features to consider when choosing a pair of headphones for kids:
Volume Limiters and Sound Safety
This is the most important feature.
Look for headphones that explicitly state an 85 dB volume limit, or that offer switchable modes so you can select the appropriate cap.
Some premium models let you toggle between stricter limits for younger children and slightly higher limits for teens who may need a bit more volume in noisy environments.
Fit, Comfort, and Durability for Different Ages
A pair of headphones that’s too big or too heavy will end up abandoned in a drawer.
Look for adjustable headbands and cushioned ear cups that suit smaller heads. For toddlers and younger children, over-ear styles often work better than on-ear, as they sit more securely without pressing uncomfortably.
Durability is also key. Kids aren’t always gentle with their belongings, so look for options made of flexible materials with a foldable design for easy storage. Tangle-free or detachable cables are a bonus for wired models.
Wired vs Children’s Bluetooth Headphones
Wired headphones are fairly straightforward: plug in and go, no charging required.
They’re often more affordable and can be a good choice for younger children who might lose or forget to charge wireless models. But these aren’t the only options!
Children’s Bluetooth headphones offer freedom of movement, which is great for active kids or those who use tablets around the house.
For non-wired headphones, battery life will vary, so always check how many hours of playback you can expect and how easy it is to recharge. Many wireless kids’ headphones also include an optional cable so you can keep listening if the battery runs flat.
Noise Cancelling vs Noise Isolation for Kids
Noise-isolating headphones use padding and a snug fit to block out external sounds passively.
Active noise-cancelling (ANC) headphones go further, using microphones and electronics to reduce background noise.
For travel on planes or trains, or for children who struggle to concentrate in noisy environments, the best noise-cancelling headphones for kids can make a real difference.
They can also help neurodiverse children who are sensitive to auditory overload. Just be sure to choose a model that still enforces volume limits alongside the ANC feature.
There’s always a risk of a child missing an important announcement if they are completely isolated from outside noise.
Built-In Microphones and Audio Sharing
If your child uses headphones for online classes or gaming with friends, you’ll likely need headphones with a built-in microphone. Look for clear voice pickup without too much background noise.
Some kids’ headphones also feature audio sharing ports, letting two children listen to the same device together, perfect for siblings on a road trip.
The Best Kids’ Headphones – Compared
Here’s a quick-reference comparison of some of the top kids’ headphones across different categories:
| Product | Age Range | Volume Limit | Connection | Best For | Key Feature |
| Puro PuroBasic | 3-10 | 85 dB | Wired | Everyday use | Premium sound quality |
| JLab JBuddies Studio 2 | 6-12 | 85 dB | Wireless | School/home | Long battery life |
| Puro JuniorJams Plus | 4-11 | 85 dB | Wireless | Music lovers | Studio-grade audio |
| Tronsmart KH03 ANC | 5-14 | 74/85/93 dB | Wireless | Travel | Active noise cancelling |
| JBL Jr310BT | 4-10 | 85 dB | Wireless | All-rounder | JBL Safe Sound tech |
| Ekids Wired | 3-8 | 85 dB | Wired | Younger kids | Parental volume control |
| Turtle Beach Recon Spark | 10-17 | Device-level | Wired | Gaming | Multi-platform support |
Best Headphones for Kids by Age
Different ages mean different needs. Here’s how to match headphones to your child’s stage of development.
Best Headphones for Toddlers and Preschoolers (Ages 2-5)
For the youngest listeners, simplicity, safety, and durability are paramount. Toddlers need headphones with a strict 85 dB volume limit, a secure fit on small heads, and construction that can survive being dropped, bent, and occasionally chewed.
Wired models are often the best choice at this age since there’s no battery to charge and one less thing to keep track of. Look for bright, fun designs that your child will actually want to wear.
Here are some of the top options:
Ekids Wired Headphones for Kids – These feature parental volume controls, a durable build, and colourful designs that appeal to young children. The wired connection means they’re always ready to go.
Clevy Kids Headphones – Designed specifically for young children with a focus on hearing safety. The spiral cable resists tangles, and the built-in mic is handy for video calls with grandparents.
Altec Lansing 2-in-1 Bluetooth Kid-Safe Headphones – Though rated for ages 6-9, the adjustable design can work for older preschoolers. This option has both wired and wireless modes.
Best Headphones for School-Age Kids (Ages 6-10)
Once children start school, their headphone needs expand. They may use headphones for online learning, educational apps, music, and other activities.
They’ll also be using them for longer periods of time, so comfort becomes more important.
Wireless children’s Bluetooth headphones are popular with this age group because they offer more freedom of movement. But you’ll want to look for good battery life and an included audio cable for backup.
Some top options include:
Puro Sound Labs PuroBasic Volume Limited Wired Headphones – Known for excellent sound quality within safe volume limits, these are ideal for kids who love music. The comfortable, cushioned ear cups work well for longer listening sessions.
JLab JBuddies Studio 2 Wireless Kids Headphones – A reliable wireless option with a built-in mic for video calls and online classes. The folding design makes them easy to store in a school bag.
JBL Jr310BT Wireless Kids On-Ear Headphones – JBL’s Safe Sound technology keeps volume at or below 85 dB. Lightweight, comfortable, and available in multiple colours, these are a solid all-round choice.
Myzi Kids Headphones – An affordable wired option with a foldable design, 85 dB limit, and built-in mic. Great for budget-conscious families who want quality basics.
Best Headphones for Tweens and Early Teens
Older children and teenagers often want headphones that look more grown-up while still providing some level of hearing protection.
They may also need features like low-latency audio for gaming or better microphones for voice chat.
At this age, you might also consider higher-quality wireless models or gaming headsets, keeping in mind that parental involvement in volume management shifts from hardware limits to conversations and device-level controls.
You’ll see higher price tags with these options, but also more features:
Puro Sound Labs JuniorJams Plus Volume Limited Wireless Headphones – These deliver studio-quality sound with an 85 dB limit, appealing to teens who take their music seriously. The wireless design and comfortable fit suit all-day wear.
JLab JBuddies Pro Wireless Over-Ear Kids’ Headphones – With cloud-foam cushions and a more mature design, these bridge the gap between kids’ headphones and adult models while maintaining safe volume levels.
GabbaGoods BriteBeats Kids Volume Limiting Bluetooth Headphones – For tweens who love a bit of flair, these feature LED light-up ear cups alongside responsible volume limits.
Best Kids’ Headphones by Use Case
Beyond age, it helps to think about how your child will use their headphones most often.
Best Wireless Headphones for Kids (Everyday Use)
For general-purpose listening at home, in the car, or around the house, the best wireless headphones for kids combine reliable Bluetooth connectivity, solid battery life, and comfortable wear.
Puro Sound Labs JuniorJams Plus – Excellent wireless sound quality with a strict 85 dB limit. The battery lasts up to 22 hours, so they’ll keep going through long journeys and busy weekends.
JLab JBuddies Studio 2 – Affordable, reliable, and comfortable. The folding design and included carrying pouch make these easy to take anywhere.
JBL Jr310BT – JBL’s a trusted name in audio, so you’ll enjoy their durable equipment with kid-specific safety features. The lightweight design is comfortable for younger children.
Best Gaming Headphones for Kids and Teens
Are your kids big gamers? Even if they aren’t, video streaming and other technologies have become far more common as community builders.
Gaming headsets need clear voice chat, comfortable wear for longer sessions, and compatibility across different platforms.
While dedicated kids’ gaming headsets with built-in volume limits are less common, there are options designed with younger players in mind.
For these headsets, parents should use device-level volume controls on consoles, PCs, or tablets to ensure safe listening levels. Most gaming platforms include parental controls that can limit maximum volume.
4Gamers Panther Gaming Headset – Compatible with PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, PC, and mobile. The wired connection ensures zero lag during gameplay, and the comfortable design suits extended gaming sessions. Parents should set volume limits at the device level.
Turtle Beach Recon Spark Gaming Headset – A popular choice among young gamers, offering multi-platform support, a flip-up mic, and a design that teens will appreciate. Works with all major consoles and PC.
When children use gaming headsets, it’s a good idea to set up household rules around gaming time and volume. This is also where parental control apps can help you manage not just audio but overall screen time and gaming hours.
Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Kids (Travel and Focus)
The best noise-cancelling headphones for kids are invaluable for long flights, train journeys, or simply creating a quieter space in a busy household.
Active noise cancellation (ANC) reduces background sounds without requiring higher volumes, which is actually better for hearing health in noisy environments.
These are also particularly helpful for neurodiverse children who may be sensitive to sensory overload from ambient noise.
Tronsmart KH03 Active Noise Cancelling Kids Headphones – A standout option offering three volume modes (74, 85, or 93 dB) so parents can choose the right setting for different situations. The ANC works well on planes and trains, and the 70-hour battery life means they’ll last through the longest journeys. LED lights add a fun touch that kids love.
Heyday Kids’ Wireless Active Noise Cancelling Headphones – An affordable ANC option available at Target. The stylish two-tone design appeals to older kids and tweens.
Tips for Using Kids’ Headphones Safely
Even the best headphones for kids are just one part of the picture. Here are some practical ways to make safe listening part of your routine:
Build Healthy Listening Habits – Together
Start by talking to your child about why hearing health matters. You don’t need to frighten them, just explain that their ears are precious and worth looking after.
Younger children often respond well to simple rules like “headphones off during dinner” or “let’s take a listening break”.
Not sure how loud their headphones are? Occasionally listen to your child’s headphones yourself to check the volume level.
If you can hear the audio clearly from arm’s length away when they’re wearing the headphones, it’s probably too loud.
Encourage breaks. A good rule of thumb is to take the headphones off for at least five minutes every hour. This gives ears a rest and naturally limits total listening time.
Set Volume Limits on Phones and Tablets
Most smartphones and tablets have built-in options to cap the maximum headphone volume.
On iPhones and iPads, you’ll find this under
Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Headphone Safety
This is where you can enable “Reduce Loud Sounds” and set a decibel limit. Android devices have similar settings, usually under Sound or Safety options.
These device-level controls add an extra layer of protection, especially useful for gaming headsets or any headphones that don’t have built-in volume limits.
Pair Safe Headphones with Screen-Time Tools
Safe headphones and sensible listening habits fit naturally into a broader approach to healthy digital life for your family.
After all, the more time children spend on devices, the more time they spend with headphones on.
This is where parental control tools like Kidslox can come alongside and help. By setting daily screen-time limits and filtering out age-inappropriate content, you’re not just protecting your child online – you’re also naturally managing how long your child uses those headphones each day.
For example, if you’ve set a two-hour daily limit on tablet time, your child’s headphone use is automatically capped too.
You can create schedules that encourage breaks, designate quiet times when devices (and headphones) are put away, and ensure that the audio content they’re listening to is appropriate for their age.
Combining safe headphones with thoughtful screen-time management creates a holistic approach to your child’s digital wellbeing, one that protects both their hearing and their overall relationship with technology.
The Best Kid’s Headphones? Ones They’ll Use (and You Can Trust)
Choosing the best headphones for kids doesn’t have to be complicated. But it should also be an intentional process. You want to make sure you’re investing the right money in the best product possible.
Remember that headphones are just one piece of the puzzle. Healthy listening habits, open conversations about hearing health, and sensible screen-time management all work together to protect your child’s ears, eyes, and mind.
And when you pair safe headphones with a parental control app like Kidslox, you’re giving your family the tools to enjoy all the benefits of technology while staying within boundaries that keep everyone healthy and happy.
Your child’s hearing is worth protecting, and with the right headphones and a few simple habits, you can let them enjoy their audio world with confidence.
Want to learn more about parenting in the digital age? Check out our latest guides and resources on all the latest technology and trends with Kidslox!
FAQ
What volume level is safe for kids’ headphones?
Most hearing health experts recommend a maximum of 85 decibels (dB) for children’s prolonged listening. This is roughly equivalent to busy city traffic. The best headphones for kids have built-in volume limiters that cap output at 85 dB, so even if your child turns the volume all the way up, it stays within a safer range. Some models offer adjustable limits (such as 74, 85, or 94 dB) so you can choose based on your child’s age and environment.
Are headphones safe for toddlers and 2-year-olds?
Yes, headphones can be safe for toddlers when you choose the right pair. Look for headphones specifically designed for young children with a strict 85 dB volume limit, a lightweight build, and a secure fit for small heads.
What are the best wireless headphones for kids?
The best wireless headphones for kids combine Bluetooth convenience with built-in volume protection. Look for models with long battery life and an included audio cable for backup when the battery runs low.
Do kids need noise-cancelling headphones?
Noise-cancelling headphones aren’t essential for every child, but they’re valuable in specific situations. Active noise cancellation (ANC) is helpful for travel and focus, as well as for neurodiverse children who are sensitive to sensory overload.
What headphones are best for kids who game?
For gaming, kids need headphones with clear microphones, a comfortable fit for longer sessions, and multi-platform compatibility. Since these headphones don’t typically have hardware volume caps, parents should set volume limits directly.
How long can kids safely wear headphones each day?
A sensible guideline is to encourage breaks every 30 to 60 minutes and keep total daily headphone use to around 1-2 hours for younger children. Tweens and teens can listen longer but still benefit from regular breaks.
