Is Cold Weather Bad For Headphones? 5 Facts (Updated 2023)

Music and cold weather just go so well together.

It sets you in such a calm and relaxed mood…

But just as it’s uncomfortable to stand in the cold…

Could your headphones also not tolerate the low temperature?

Continue reading to find out:

The best temperature to use your headphones.
Which headphones are best for the cold weather.
How cold weather can negatively affect your headphones.
And much, much more…

Is cold weather bad for headphones?

Cold weather is generally not bad for headphones. However, your headphone’s battery and wires can be affected when it gets too cold for your device. Moisture and condensation can also become a problem. With that, the recommended temperature range for headphones is 32°F to 95°F.

Headphones and cold weather – 5 facts

#1: Headphones have recommended temperature ranges

Remember that product manual that comes with the device?

You might not pay too much attention to it…

But it indicates the ideal temperature for your headphones.

However, the required temperature may differ from one brand to another.

The average would be somewhere between 32°F to 95°F.

So, why should you try to keep your device within this temperature range?

That’s because despite your headphones being okay in cold weather…

They can still be affected by it.

How?

We’ll be discussing those instances next…

#2: Cold weather can drain your wireless headphone’s battery

Have you ever noticed how fast your battery level goes down when it’s too cold?

Well, that’s because wireless headphones use lithium-ion batteries to function.

But what’s the connection between the battery and cold weather?

A study discussed the effects of temperature on the performance of lithium-ion batteries.

So, here’s what happens to them when the batteries too cold:

The chemical reaction slows down.
The liquid electrolyte in them can freeze.
They can’t produce enough heat to combat the cold.

And those can damage your device’s battery.

Now, here are things that you can do to extend your headphones’ battery life:

Enable “battery saving mode,” if available.
Keep the device close to you so your body temperature can help.

Note: You can also keep your headphones in your bag when not in use. This way, they don’t get too cold.

Lastly, it’s also not ideal to charge your device when it’s chilly. Doing so can damage the battery further.

With that, keep in mind that lithium-ion batteries work best in the needed temperature range.

You must know that even too hot temperatures can damage your headphones, too.

So, store and charge your headphones at room temperature.

You may also like: 5 Reasons Why Airpods Are Dying So Fast + Fixes

#3: Moisture and condensation can damage your headphones

Do you remember the condensation process?

Let’s refresh your memory…

Condensation happens when water vapor reaches its dew temperature.

Then, it turns into liquid.

Now, how is this important to headphones and cold weather?

Well, when you continually use your headphones…

And when you move from a cold to a warm place, condensation can happen in the device.

Now that’s happened, moisture forms in your headset.

So, what should you do to prevent this from damaging your headphones’ components?

Just follow these 2 easy steps:

Remove and turn off your headphones.
Let them rest and get to room temperature.

Remember to turn them on only when they’ve warmed up to room temperature.

Now, did you know that ice particles can also form inside your headphones?

If moisture is present inside the device…

And you’re at a very cold place, ice crystals can appear.

Moreover, it can ruin the sound quality.

You’d know if this happens because the sound is muffled.

Even if the ice crystals melt, the moisture can still damage the device.

So, again, it’s best to use your headphones at their recommended temperature.

You may also ask: What To Do If Airpods Get Wet

#4: Wires on headphones can become brittle

Wired headphones can also be affected by cold weather.

In their case, the flexible wires can contract from the cold.

Thus making the cord less elastic and more brittle.

With that, they’re also more likely to break.

But you can prevent this by keeping the wires under your coat or jacket.

Also, it’s advisable not to tug on the wire when it’s cold. Doing so can prevent it from snapping.

Check also: Do Wireless Headphones Last Longer Than Wired?

#5: Cold weather doesn’t affect Bluetooth connectivity

Are you wondering if the cold weather is harmful to your Bluetooth headphones?

Well, worry not.

The Bluetooth connectivity is completely unaffected when it’s cold.

Fun fact: All radiofrequency signals are unaffected by low temperatures.

However, the Bluetooth chip can still get damaged.

Just like any other component, once moisture seeps in…

The device can short-circuit and malfunction.

So, be careful of your headphone’s hardware.

And here’s what you can do to take care of your devices:

Follow the product manual.
Keep them away from water.
Clean them at least once a week.
Charge them at room temperature.
Avoid getting moisture inside them.

What headphones are best for cold weather?

The headphones that are best for cold weather are those that are comfortable. Plus, they should have good build quality as well.

But before I give you a list of the best headphones…

Let’s first talk about the 2 qualities to look for when shopping for them.

#1: Comfortability

Who wouldn’t love to listen to music with ease and comfort?

So, take into consideration if the device is designed for your comfort.

Now, how can you even measure comfortability?

To make it easy…

You can consider the headphone’s weight and earpads.

That said…

Their weight shouldn’t be too heavy for you.

Most headphones today are built to be lightweight.

But depending on your preference…

One can be heavier than the other.

So, it’s best to try them on before buying them.

You also can look for ones that are made of plastic or aluminum alloy.

Their earcups should be soft and properly padded.

Headphones specifically made for winter offer great earpads.

You can look for large and soft earpads…

Or even find ones with fur.

Now, proper padding not only keeps you warm…

But it can also elevate your listening experience.

And, of course, be mindful of what the paddings are made of. That can be the deciding factor for this quality.

So, here are the common materials used for earpads:

Foam.
Silicon.
Leather.
Feather.
Polyester.
PVC or Vinyl.
Polycarbonate.

Also, consider if you’re allergic to any of those. If you are, it’s best to find another pair of headphones.

#2: Build quality

There are a lot of well-built headphones.

Many of which are specifically designed for the winter weather.

And here are top-notch features you can get from high-quality them:

Prevents corrosion.
Has durable batteries.
Built for cold temperatures.
Made out of premium material.

Now, I’d advise you to invest in high-quality headphones from well-known brands.

Why so?

For one, these brands did their research to improve their products.

And, apart from premium quality and design…

You have a reliable warranty and access to their tech support.

Plus, it’s always better to get great devices and use them for years…

Rather than buy cheap ones every once in a while because they break easily.

So, with that being said…

Here’s a list of the headphones that are best for cold weather:

Best wireless headphones:

Best wired headphones:

Those are the best ones out there today.

But of course, your personal preferences will show a clear winner.

So go get one with the style and features you’d like most.