Are you looking for a pair of affordable headphones that can reduce your exposure to electromagnetic radiation from your devices? Air tube headphones use hollow tubes to deliver sound directly to your ears, reducing radiation contact with your head. In this guide, we cover the 7 top air tube headphones under $50, great options for those on a budget.
Recent Released: The Best Earbuds for iPhone in 2023
What Are Air Tube Headphones?
Air tube headphones, also called hollow tube headphones, use plastic tubes rather than metal wires to transmit sound from the source to your ears. This prevents the electromagnetic radiation emitted from your phone, laptop or other devices from traveling directly into your head or brain.
The hollow tubes don’t conduct electricity, acting as an insulator. This allows you to listen to music or talk on the phone without pressing electrical and electronic components directly against your head.
There is research to suggest that minimizing contact with electromagnetic radiation from tech devices may provide health benefits and reduce risks. Air tube headphones are a simple way to create more distance and minimize exposure, especially from cell phones.
While pricier air tube headphone models are available, there are excellent budget options under $50. In this guide, we cover the key factors to consider when choosing air tube headphones and review the top 7 pairs under $50 for 2023.
Benefits of Air Tube Headphones
Here are some of the main benefits of using air tube headphones:
- Reduce electromagnetic radiation contact: Air tubes separate your head from electronics and wires, reducing exposure to EMFs. This helps minimize contact with the radiation emitted from devices.
- Improve sound quality: The hollow tubes produce excellent sound quality, crisp high tones and strong bass. Their design minimizes background interference.
- Comfortable to wear: Air tube headphones tend to be lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods. The tube design eliminates pressure on your ears.
- Limit bacteria buildup: With less contact with your skin, air tube headphones are more hygienic and don’t transfer as much bacteria as traditional headphones.
- Use with different devices: Many air tube headphones come with adapters so you can use them with phones, tablets, laptops, gaming devices and more.
What to Look For in Air Tube Headphones Under $50
Here are some key factors to consider when choosing budget air tube headphones under $50:
- Sound quality: Look for crisp highs and lows and minimal sound distortion, even at higher volumes. Noise isolation is also important for blocking ambient sounds.
- Comfort: The headphones should be lightweight enough for extended wear. Ear buds that fit securely in your ears are ideal.
- Adjustable air tubes: Air tubes that you can adjust provide a custom fit. Being able to position the tubes over your ears as needed improves comfort.
- Compatibility: Air tube headphones with adapters are more versatile. Look for models that work with iOS and Android smartphones, computers, gaming devices and more.
- Battery life: For wireless models, battery life over 5 hours allows you to listen for extended periods before needing to recharge. Quick 2-3 hour recharge times are also convenient.
- Durability: Durable plastics and thick, tangle-free cables allow air tube headphones to withstand regular use without damage. A carrying case helps maintain them while traveling.
Getting all of these features for under $50 may be difficult, but many budget models still provide good overall performance. Focus on sound quality and radiation reduction as the highest priorities.
The 7 Best Air Tube Headphones Under $50
Based on the criteria above, these are the top 7 air tube headphones under $50:
1. SafeSleeve Airtube Headphones (Best Value/Budget Pick)
Key Features:
- Aluminum-free air tube design
- Noise-isolating fit
- Works with multiple devices
- Wired (no battery needed)
- Under $35
The SafeSleeve Airtube Headphones top our list for the best value. They eliminate all metals with plastic air tubes to provide excellent EMF protection. The angled ear bud tips fit comfortably and isolate noise.
Reviewers praise the crisp and well-balanced sound quality. The 48-inch cord works with any device with a 3.5mm audio jack, so you can use these headphones universally. At under $35, these are the best budget air tube headphones available.
2. SYB Air Tube Headset
Key Features:
- C-shaped air tube design
- noise-canceling microphone
- Volume controls on earpieces
- Wired with 3.5mm plug
- Under $40
For those wanting a microphone, the SYB Air Tube Headset is an excellent choice. The unique C-shaped air tubes follow the contour of your head while limiting radiation. The in-line microphone and controls allow you to handle calls and adjust volume conveniently.
Users mention clear treble and rich bass with minimal sound leakage. While a bit bulky, the headphones stay comfortable for hours of listening at home, work or school. The universal 3.5mm plug works with any headphone jack.
3. Dr. Mercola Bluetubes
Key Features:
- BPA-free plastic tubes
- Noise isolation technology
- Tangle-free cable
- Works with multiple devices
- Under $35
Certified by doctors, the Dr. Mercola Bluetubes provide high-performance radiation reduction in a sleek and modern profile. The comfortable memory foam ear tips block ambient noise to keep sound crisp.
Reviewers mention the well-balanced sound profile with punchy bass. The nylon-wrapped cord rarely tangles. You also get a cable wrap, airplane adapter and carrying case. Overall, the Bluetubes combine solid EMF protection with excellent sound quality.
4. Tuisy Airtube Headphones
Key Features:
- Ultra-soft silicone earbuds
- Noise isolation
- Tangle-free 1.5m cable
- Works with 3.5mm devices
- Under $30
As one of the most affordable options, the Tuisy Airtube Headphones provide surprising sound given their low price. The ultra-soft silicone earbuds are extremely comfortable for long listening sessions. They block ambient noise well for immersive sound.
The adjustable air tubes can be positioned for a custom fit. Reviewers mention clear mids and highs along with the ability to hear bass. While not the most durable, these Tuisy headphones are excellent for listening at home while reducing radiation exposure.
5. Kinden Airtube Headset
Key Features:
- C-shaped air tubes
- Built-in microphone
- Volume control
- 1.2m anti-tangle cord
- Under $40
The Kinden Airtube Headset competes with more premium models but at a fraction of the cost. The C-shaped air tubes are completely adjustable for maximizing comfort. The in-line microphone works well for calls with a shirt cord that’s easy to manage.
According to buyers, these headphones produce great sound across lows, mids and highs. They are lightweight and can be worn all day comfortably. While the plastic feels a bit delicate, the Kinden Headset performs well for the affordable price.
6. Kiden Airtube Headset
Key Features:
- Adjustable aluminum-free tubes
- Built-in microphone
- Volume and song controls
- Noise isolation
- Under $50
The Kiden Airtube Headset competes with more premium-priced models with its complete feature set. The adjustable tubes allow you to direct sound precisely into your ears for better noise isolation. The microphone picks up voice clearly, while the in-line controls are convenient.
Reviewers mention crisp and balanced audio with punchy but not overwhelming bass. The soft earbud tips are comfortable for extended wear. The braided cord also resists tangling well. Overall, the Kiden Headset is one of the best air tube models under $50.
7. Docooler Airtube Earbuds
Key Features:
- Low-radiation patented design
- Three sizes of earbud tips
- 1.2m tangle-free cable
- Works with 3.5mm devices
- Under $15
As the most affordable option, the Docooler Airtube Earbuds provide solid performance and radiation reduction for the price. The low-profile earbuds come with three sizes of tips for achieving a good fit. Sound quality is decent though leaning a bit tinny on the highs.
For listening at home with your computer or smartphone, the Docoolers work well. While not built for heavy use or travel, at under $15 they are an excellent budget choice. The 3.5mm plug also makes them universally compatible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Tube Headphones
Are air tube headphones better than regular headphones?
Air tube headphones are better at reducing your exposure to electromagnetic radiation emitted from devices. Their hollow tube design creates more separation from electronics. However, regular headphones may sound better depending on the model and typically cost less.
How do air tube headphones work to block radiation?
Air tube headphones use plastic tubes to carry sound to your ears instead of metal wires. This prevents the electrical current running through wires from making direct contact with your head and ears, reducing EMF exposure.
Can you sleep with air tube headphones?
Most air tube headphones have soft, comfortable ear tips suitable for sleeping. Their lightweight design makes them ideal for falling asleep listening to music, podcasts or meditation tracks without cumbersome headbands pressing on your ears.
Are air tube headphones safe for your ears?
Air tube headphones do not transmit harmful levels of EMFs to your head and are considered safe. Their plastic tubes block radiation better than metal wires. Avoid excessive volume when using any headphones to protect your hearing.
How do you clean air tube headphones?
Use anti-bacterial wipes or cloths moistened with rubbing alcohol to gently clean the earbuds and tubing. Avoid getting moisture in the open tubes or headphone jack. Let components fully air dry before using again.
Conclusion
Air tube headphones are an easy way to protect yourself from electromagnetic radiation exposure while still enjoying your audio devices. When shopping under $50, focus on comfort, sound quality, device compatibility and overall radiation reduction.
The SafeSleeve Airtube Headphones provide the best value with impressive audio performance. But all of the options in this guide allow you to listen safely on a budget. With a quality pair of air tube headphones, you can immerse yourself in music, calls, games and more without pressing electronics directly against your head.