10 best kids' headphones: ear-safe options for kids of all ages

As parents, we know that kids don’t always handle their possessions with complete care. If you’ve previously bought headphones only to find that they snap, break or stop working just months after purchase, the POGS Kids' Bluetooth Headphones (The Gecko) are definitely worth considering.

Built to last, these came out on top of our best kids' headphones list because they can survive all manner of scenarios, including being twisted and dropped. With an adjustable padded headband and hypoallergenic ear cushions, they offer a secure fit that won’t get sweaty or uncomfortable during extended use.

A versatile option, children choose between wireless use or switch to wired if the battery starts to run low. There’s also an AUX cable included making it ideal for those who love to play on their Switch, PS4 or Xbox games consoles as well as a POGLink cable that allows two children to watch their favourite films together. We love the option to personalise the headphones with Doodas (deely bobber style accessories sold separately).

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If you’re on a limited budget or want to pick up a cheap but safe pair of kids' headphones for travel or online learning, these iClever headphones are the best kids' headphones to buy on a budget.

With excellent sound quality (capped at a maximum of 94dB), they feature an easy-to-use microphone and a multi-function control button, with an adjustable headband to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.

While the cute cat ears won’t be appealing to all kids, Kawaii fans will love the three light modes that add a bit of fun, with a choice of static or flashing and pulsing glows.

These headphones aren’t wireless, so are more suited to seated activities like watching videos, plane journeys or doing homework, but the cable with a 3.5mm jack is compatible with most devices. It’s worth noting that if your child has one of the newest iPads and iPhones, you'll need to use a headphone jack adapter or opt for a pair of wireless headphones, like the POGS Kids' Bluetooth Headphones, instead.

Some of the best kids' headphones for younger children, we love the huge selection of designs on offer from Snug. Whether they’re obsessed with dinosaurs, robots, monster trucks, have a passion for pineapples or even love llamas, you can be certain to find a pair to suit your child’s personality.

Not only are the Snug Play+ Toddler Headphones highly recommended by thousands of happy parents, but they also feature a unique design - a sharing port that allows two headphones to listen to the same audio at once, which is great for car journeys where siblings want to watch the same film or play the same travel game.

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While they certainly don’t come cheap, Puro Sound Labs headphones are the best kids' headphones on our list for travel (on land and in the air) thanks to their wireless design, comfortable padded headset and ear cups and long battery life. The battery charges quickly, with around 18 hours playtime, but these headphones also come with a 3.5mm audio cable to keep the audio going when the battery runs low.

Noise limited to 85dB, they also come with impressive background noise isolation, making them ideal for loud environments as well as long-haul plane journeys or road trips with the family.

The Puro Sound Labs T2200 Volume Limited Kids’ Bluetooth Headphones are available in a variety of colours and are made from robust aluminium that can fold flat for easy storage - even if you’re limited to hand luggage.

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These brightly coloured, robust and durable BuddyPhones come with three volume-limiting settings, making them some of the best kids' headphones for toddlers. They offer dual connectivity, allowing your child to easily switch from wireless Bluetooth connectivity to wired headphones if the battery starts to run low.

During travel or in loud environments, the volume can be increased to 94dB, ensuring children can hear clearly over any significant background noise.

While they may wear off with time, we love the embossed stickers which can be used to personalise the headphones, which also come in four vibrant colours.

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JBL headphones and earbuds are beloved by Mumsnetters and these stylish JBL JR 460NC On-Ear Headphones with a ‘grown-up’ design sit on the ear, with larger padded cups that are more comfortable over longer durations.

They offer superior sound quality while limiting volume to a safe 85dB for younger listeners. The built-in microphone makes chatting with friends easy, while the noise-cancelling settings reduce the impact of background noise to allow them to focus on the homework (or gaming) task at hand. They're not the cheapest on our list, but the range of features alone make them some of the best kids' headphones for older kids in particular.

Kids will love the freedom of this completely wireless design with 20 hours of playtime and super-fast charging.

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If your child loves gaming and would happily spend hours playing online with friends on their laptop, they’re going to need a pair of the best kids' headphones with a few key features: strong battery life, enhanced comfort and, ideally, a retractable boom mic.

The JLab JBuddies certainly fit the bill, with a 22-hour battery life that won’t stop the action mid-game. With volume limited to 85dB, you can be confident your child’s hearing is protected during play, while the audio is crisp and clear to ensure a fully immersive experience.

It’s worth remembering that these wireless headphones require Bluetooth, so while they can be used completely wirelessly for PC gaming, playing the Switch, XBox and PS4 require connection via an AUX cord.

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While at the lower end of the price scale, JVC’s Tinyphones Kids’ Stereo Headphones are still packed with loads of useful features. They have the all-important volume limiter to protect tiny ears, are available in a choice of five different colours and even come with stickers so your child can personalise them to their heart's content.

Weighing in at just 133g, they’re also a super lightweight option for children who might feel restricted with a heavier pair, making them among the best kids' headphones for popping into a school bag.

The downside? They’re not wireless, but this does mean that they are always ready to use at a moment’s notice.

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While not strictly kids' headphones, the smaller-sized JLab Go Air Pop True Wireless Earbuds are well suited to older children or teens who may struggle to achieve a secure fit from other in-ear headphone designs. They’re available in a choice of five colours too, from traditional monochrome shades to the less subtle pink or teal.

These slim-fit earbuds come in a compact, portable case, making them ideal for listening on the go. They also come with impressive battery life - up to 32 hours of your teen's favourite music, podcasts or audiobooks before they need quickly charging up again via USB.

There are no noise-limiting features on these earbuds, so you need to trust your child to use them responsibly. For that reason, we wouldn't recommend these headphones for younger children (who are less likely to find them comfortable too).

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