Why wired earphones are back and what experts say about this trend
Wired earphones are making a comeback. Whereas for years they were traded in for wireless versions, more and more people are now consciously choosing the wired version again. Not only celebrities and influencers like Harry Styles, Bella Hadid and Monica Geuze, but also consumers seem to be embracing the classic earbuds again. The resurgence is part of a broader retro-tech trend, in which simplicity and “old-fashioned” technology are being reappraised.
Back to the ‘good old days’ with retrotech
The revaluation of “old-fashioned” technology is nothing new. From analog cameras to black-and-white photobooths at events, people seem to value simplicity and imperfection again. The comeback of wired earphones fits within this broader movement, which focuses on less dependence on technology.
For example, trend watcher Adjiedj Bakas sees clear influences from the 1970s returning. “From record players and vinyl to wide-leg pants: there is a growing longing for the good old days,” Bakas said.
According to zeitgeist and trend analyst Christine Boland, the need for overview and simplicity is growing, especially among young people. “Technological developments are happening so fast that they are becoming difficult for many people to grasp. This is precisely why, especially among Gen Z, there is a strong need for something tangible and simple.”
From function to fashion
Wired earphones are also increasingly a visible part of the outfit. In fact, the cable, once something to be hidden away, is now deliberately displayed.
Boland explains that this is in line with a broader style trend: “Wearing accessories fits within the current style, where classic elements are combined with a modern twist and gadgets are also becoming part of an outfit.”
Health debate over wireless earphones
There is additionally a debate on social media about possible health effects of wireless earphones. Some reports suggest that they are more harmful due to radiation than wired versions. There is no scientific basis for this, according to experts.
Karin Stalpaert, audiologist and tinnitus expert at Practice Audiks, emphasizes that the type of earpiece makes no difference in how sound is processed: “The way sound is transmitted – wireless or wired – does not affect how the ear processes sound. The sound is produced as a vibration by the speaker and converted via the ear canal, eardrum and cochlea into signals that the brain interprets. That process is the same in both types of ears.”
What she does believe should be considered are other factors: “For hearing damage, tinnitus and other audiological conditions, the volume, wearing time and fit are especially important.”
Wired earphones: less is more?
Although wireless earphones are more advanced, the advantages of wired variants are mainly in simplicity and reliability. They have no battery, no connection problems and work as soon as you plug them in. In addition, they are often cheaper, making them accessible to a wide range of users.
For some users, practical frustrations with wireless earbuds play a role in choosing wired, says Boris Blijham, founder of ThePhoneLab. “They are sometimes empty when you need them or don’t connect directly to the right device. Things like that make people choose simple and reliable again.”
