Headphone Statistics By Market, Region, Users and Usage

Saisuman Revankar
Written by
Saisuman Revankar

Updated · Oct 08, 2024

Rohan Jambhale
Edited by
Rohan Jambhale

Editor

Headphone Statistics By Market, Region, Users and Usage

Introduction

Headphone Statistics: In the past years, with the farthest technological advances, there has been drastic growth in the headphone industry across the globe. The Headphones let us listen to new music, audiobooks, calls, and much more than we plan to enjoy closely. The bass effect that we witness in movie theatres can be easily witnessed by using headphones to listen to music or to watch a movie. Not only this, but many people across the globe are introverts and avoid communicating in public; therefore, they use headphones.

The future promises all-in-one devices with music storage, streaming, and virtual reality features, ensuring headphones remain essential as they continue to evolve with technology. This astonishing device has several unique features and uses. In this article, let’s shed more light on the Headphone Statistics.

Editor’s Choice

  • According to Future Market Insights, the industrial hearable market is predicted to increase at a 7.8% CAGR in 2022 & 2026; FMI projected the industry value to peak at USD 991.5 million in 2026.
  • In 2022, globally, almost 553 million headphones were exported, according to Headphone statistics.
  • By 2028, the volume is expected to reach 126.9 million pieces, with a volume growth of 4.2% in 2024.
  • China is forecasted to be the largest revenue generator, with an expected revenue of USD 3,953 million in 2023.
  • The wireless headphones market is anticipated to witness a significant growth rate of 19.11% between 2022 and 2027, reaching a projected value of USD 22.04 billion.
  • According to the study, which involved 1,000 participants, around 64% of them reported that Apple AirPods fit properly in their ears.
  • In recent times, the most affordable AirPods available on the market are the 2nd generation pair. While prices were relatively low in previous years, with the 2nd gen starting at around USD 69.99, they have since increased, and now the starting price for a regular pair is USD 99.
  • According to Statista, JBL, Samsung, Bose, Dre, and Apple are the top-ranked headphone brands as of 2023.
  • The Apple Airpods can pair with non-Apple appliances that use standard Bluetooth connectivity, and almost 85% of users pair them with minimal non-Apple devices.
  • ANC-enabled wireless headphones accounted for 30% of total sales in 2024, with an average selling price of USD 200.
  • The market in Asia is expected to amount to USD 7.7 billion by 2023, with a projected CAGR of 2.52% between 2023 and 2028.
  • The noise-cancellation feature is predicted to contribute to the market’s growth with an almost 25% CAGR between 2020 and 2026.

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Evolution of Headphones

  • Headphones have a fascinating journey, evolving from a luxury item to a daily necessity. Today, it’s hard to imagine life without them.
  • In 2022, the headphone industry generated an impressive USD 22.3 billion, selling around 548 million units.
  • Like many technologies, headphones didn’t become a massive industry overnight. Decades of innovation transformed them into today’s advanced devices.
  • 1881: The 10-Pound Headphones—The earliest headphones, used by telephone operators in 1881, weigh over 10 pounds and rest on the shoulders.
  • 1895: The First “Earbuds” – In 1895, a new type of headphones designed for home use appeared. These had a stethoscope-like design but were expensive, making them less accessible.
  • 1910: The First Official Audio Headphones – In 1910, engineer Nathaniel Baldwin invented the first modern-looking headphones at his kitchen table. These featured two padded ear cups and headbands, allowing hands-free use.
  • 1937: Headphones for Personal Listening – Beyerdynamic’s DT-48 headphones, introduced in 1937, revolutionized personal listening. These on-ear headphones with individual cables made private audio enjoyment widely available.
  • 1949: AKG K120 Headphones—AKG’s K120 headphones, with a closed-type acoustic design, debuted in 1949. Their success led AKG to focus solely on the audio industry.
  • 1958: The Birth of Brands—In 1958, John C. Koss created the first stereo headphones, the Koss SP-3. These headphones provided an immersive audio experience and became popular among college students.
  • 1959: Electrostatic Headphones—In 1959, at a Tokyo show, Stax introduced the world’s first electrostatic headphones, the SR-1, marking a significant technological advancement.
  • 1968: Lightest Headsets – In 1968, Koss introduced the ESP-6, the world’s first electrostatic headphones weighing just 2 pounds, setting a record for the lightest headsets at the time.
  • 1979: Portable Headphones—The iconic Sony Walkman headphones launched in 1979 instantly captured teenagers and skaters. They marked the transition to the modern era of portable audio.
  • 1980s: The In-Ear Headphones – In 1980, a new design emerged to address “headphone hair,” introducing smaller and thinner bands that paved the way for earbuds and in-ear headphones.
  • 1997: The Neckband Headphones – Sony’s neckband headphones, introduced in 1997, offered better sound isolation and maintained users’ hairstyles, becoming a stylish alternative to traditional designs.
  • 2000: Noise-Cancelling Headsets – Bose’s QuietComfort line, launched in 2000, introduced advanced noise-canceling technology, providing a peaceful listening experience for frequent travelers.
  • 2001: The Invention of the iPod – The iPod’s 2001 release revolutionized portable music, driving demand for lightweight and affordable earbuds, a trend that continues today.
  • 2004: The Bluetooth Revolution—Introduced in 2004, Bluetooth technology eliminated wires, enabling seamless wireless connections between headphones and devices.
  • 2008: Beats by Dre – Brands like Beats, UrbanEars, and Skullcandy made headphones fashionable with vibrant colors and large designs, boosted by celebrity endorsements.
  • 2011: Bass-Heavy Headphones – Post-2011 saw a rise in demand for high-quality audio, with brands updating classic models and introducing new ones catering to bass enthusiasts.
  • 2015: The First Truly Wireless Earbuds—In 2015, Onkyo released the first truly wireless earbuds, offering a completely wire-free listening experience.
  • 2017: Apple’s AirPods – Apple’s AirPods, launched in 2017, revolutionized the market with features like double-tap audio pause and auto-pause when removed, selling over 60 million units.
  • 2020 And Beyond The Future of Headphones – The removal of the 3.5mm audio jack from iPhones has increased the demand for wireless headphones. Modern headphones now serve multiple functions, such as heart rate monitors and personal trainers.

Headphone Industry Statistics

  • Till 2026, the earbuds industry size is estimated to surpass almost USD 100 billion.
  • The worldwide shipment of the headphones is projected to surpass 400 million units by 2025.
  • The United States holds the biggest share in the North American area industry, which accounts for almost 75% of the overall industry in 2019.
  • The wired technique section accounts for almost 60% of the entire revenue of the market in 2020.
  • The noise-cancellation feature is predicted to contribute to the market’s growth with an almost 25% CAGR between 2020 and 2026.
  • Over-ear headphones make up almost 18% of the worldwide headphone industry.
  • The kid’s headphone industry has developed by almost 23% between 2018 to 2019.
  • Almost 48% of customers from the United States state that they were using headphones or earphones that connect to a basic computer.
  • Between 2020 and 2027, the Bluetooth headphones innovation is predicted to register the fastest 21.9% CAGR.
  • In 2021, the median revenue per user in the headphones market is predicted to be USD 79.97.
  • User performance in the headphones industry is 15.9% as of 2025 and is estimated to reach 17.4% by 2025.
  • In 2021, the revenue created by the headphones sector amounted to USD 36,157 million.
  • It is projected that a median person will spend around USD 42 on a headset.
  • The Asia Pacific dominated the market with more than 45%.

headphones-and-earphones-market-estimate

(Source: headphonesaddict.com)

  • In the above chart, we can see the headphone and earphone market estimation between 2022 and 2028.
  • Between 2020 and 2027, the industry is estimated to increase at a 20.3% CAGR.
  • In the United States, almost 36% of the population uses headphones to listen to the radio, and almost 26% use headphones to listen to audiobooks.
  • Almost 24.51% of the population use headphones for many days, with others wearing them at 8.75% work, 17.51% occasionally, or even 35.61% working remotely.
  • In 2022, globally, almost 553 million headphones were exported, according to Headphone statistics.
  • Around 25% of the surveyed people have worn headphones every day, but almost 42.41% of them said that they wear them all day.
  • The famous headphone brands in the United States are Apple, Beats, and JBL in 2022.
  • Americans prefer to focus on 75% sound quality, 71% comfort, 54% price, 42% durability, and 29% weight.
  • Headphones or earphones were very famous technology-related gifts in the U.S. 61 million people in the United States gave them in 2022.
  • China is estimated to rank first in the worldwide headphones industry, generating USD 3,953 million in revenue.
  • The worldwide sales of headphones in customer electronics are predicted to be valued at USD 2.2 billion between 2023 and 2028.
  • The market in 2021 was almost thrice bigger as compared to 2016:
YearUnits SoldRevenueChange
202115,848,0001.239M+0.1%
202015,540,0001.238M+32,9%
201914.552,000932M+61,2%
201812,650,000578M+20.2%
201711,976,000478M+10.2%
201611,469,000434M/

Headphone Usage and User Statistics

  • As per Statista, around 75% of the people surveyed state that the audio quality is at the 1st rank of their need when looking for a brand new headphone. On the contrary, fitness tracking and health sensors have the lowest importance.

Common usage of Headphones:

  • Almost 9% use headphones to work with sound.
  • Nearly 25% for attending and receiving phone calls.
  • Roughly 28% of them listen to audiobooks.
  • 36% of the people listen to radio.
  • Around 49% for watching T.V. shows and movies.
  • 87% of the population of the United States listen to music.

most-common-usage-of-headphones

(Reference: headphonesaddict.com)

  • Sound quality is an essential feature for people in the U.S. at the time of buying a new headphone. Following are the 5 top features as per the people in the U.S.:

what-features-do-people-value-in-headphones-the-most-

(Reference: headphonesaddict.com)

RankHeadphone featureImportance
1Sound quality75%
2Comfort71%
3Price54%
4Durability42%
5Weight29%
  • According to statistics in 2022, the median U.S. population buys one pair of headphones at least every two years.
  • On average, an American citizen is predicted to purchase 0.52 headphones each year in 2022. If this trend continues, this is 1.04 units of headphones every two years.
  • An average adult between 19 years and 29 years uses the most headphones, at an average of 7.8 hours every week.

average-headphones-usage-per-week-by-age-groups

(Reference: headphonesaddict.com)

Age GroupHeadphones are used every weekHeadphones are used every monthHeadphones are used every year
50-79 years5.2 hours22.6 hours270.4 hours
30-49 years5.5 hours23.9 hours286 hours
19-29 years7.8 hours33.9 hours405.6 hours
  • As per Canadian statistics, youngsters use more headphones and probably longer than older adults.
  • The maximum number of people between 19 and 29 years old use earphones for 6.2 to 9.3 hours every week, with around 95% confidence.
  • 80% of people use headphones between 2 hours and 30 minutes each day, while 20% use headphones for 3 hours or more.

Preferred type of headphones:

How many were used?Percentage
On or over ears12.7%
Earbuds with eartips37.9%
Earbuds with eartips49.4%

People generally use headphones for the following purposes:

  • Just 23% of people never use headphones, as per Bitkom Research.
  • Just 20% of people use headphones as fashion accessories.
  • 20% wear headphones to avoid distraction while working.
  • Around 42% use headphones to talk when they want to isolate themselves.
  • 47% of people use headphones to avoid their surroundings.

Headphone Statistics by Region

  • Statistics indicate that the headphone market is expected to reach a value of USD 17.6 billion by 2023, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.40% between 2023 and 2028.
  • In 2023, the projected revenue per capita is 2.29%, and the anticipated average volume per person is 0.1 pieces.

market-size-of-bluetooth-headphones-in-china-from-2014-to-2018-with-a-forecast-until-2022

(Reference: statista.com)

  • As of 2024, the Bluetooth headphone market in China has witnessed significant growth since 2018, when it was valued at 6.5 billion yuan.
  • Current projections indicate continued expansion, with the market expected to surpass 29 billion yuan by 2022. This market segment encompasses both traditional wireless headphones and true wireless headphones.
  • China is forecasted to be the largest revenue generator, with an expected revenue of USD 3,953 million in 2023.
  • The volume of headphones is projected to reach USD 1.3 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 3% by 2024.

us-earphone-headphone-market

(Source: grandviewresearch.com)

  • In the United States, the headphone market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 1.66% between 2023 and 2028, reaching a value of USD 4.7 billion in 2023.
  • The projected average volume per capita in 2023 is 0.3 pieces, with per-person revenues expected to be USD 4.62.
  • By 2028, the volume is projected to reach 335.9 million pieces.
  • The market in Asia is expected to amount to USD 7.7 billion by 2023, with a projected CAGR of 2.52% between 2023 and 2028.
  • The volume is anticipated to reach 0.6 billion pieces by 2028, with per-person revenues of USD 1.70 in 2023 and an average volume per person of 0.1 pieces.

(Source: agileintelresearch.com)

  • In Africa, the revenue is expected to amount to USD 1.2 billion between 2023 and 2028, growing at a CAGR of 5.15%.
  • In 2023, per-person revenue was projected to be USD 0.94, with an average volume per person of 0.1 pieces.
  • By 2028, the volume is expected to reach 126.9 million pieces, with a volume growth of 4.2% in 2024.
  • In Europe, the revenue in 2023 is projected to amount to USD 3.7 billion, with a CAGR of 2.30% between 2023 and 2028.
  • The average volume per person in 2023 is 0.2 pieces, and the overall volume is expected to reach 211.7 million pieces by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 1.8% in 2024. Per-person revenues in 2023 are expected to be USD 4.40.

Key Trends and Upcoming Product Launches of Headphones

Key Trends and Developments

  • Wireless Technology Dominance: Wireless headphones continue to dominate the market, accounting for approximately 70% of total sales. Their convenience and improved battery life have made them a preferred choice among consumers.
  • Noise-canceling Features: There is a growing demand for noise-canceling headphones, particularly among professionals and frequent travelers. Companies are investing heavily in enhancing noise-cancellation technology to provide better user experiences.
  • Integration with Smart Devices: The integration of headphones with smart devices, such as voice assistants (Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, etc.), has become a significant trend. This allows users to control their devices and access information hands-free.
  • Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Materials: Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on using sustainable and eco-friendly materials in their products. This trend is gaining traction as consumers become more environmentally conscious.

Market Segmentation

  • By Type: Over-ear headphones lead the market, followed by in-ear and on-ear variants.
  • By Technology: The market is segmented into wired and wireless headphones, with wireless dominating.
  • By Price Range: Premium headphones (priced above USD 150) are seeing substantial growth, catering to audiophiles and professionals.

New and Upcoming Product Launches

  • Apple AirPods Max 2: Expected to launch in Q3 2024, Apple’s new AirPods Max 2 will feature improved noise cancellation, enhanced spatial audio, and longer battery life. Priced around USD 599, it targets premium segment customers.
  • Sony WH-1000XM5: Sony’s WH-1000XM5, set for release in mid-2024, promises industry-leading noise cancellation, 40-hour battery life, and high-resolution audio. At USD 399, it aims to compete in the high-end market.
  • Bose QuietComfort 55: Bose will launch its QuietComfort 55 in Q4 2024. This model will offer superior noise-canceling capabilities and a more comfortable design and will be priced at approximately USD 349.
  • Jabra Elite 85t Gen 2: The second generation of Jabra’s Elite 85t, expected in late 2024, will include upgraded active noise cancellation and better integration with virtual assistants. It will be priced at around USD 229.
  • Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless: Sennheiser’s Momentum 4 Wireless, coming in early 2024, will feature advanced Bluetooth connectivity and audiophile-grade sound quality. It will cost USD 399.

Wireless Headphone Market Statistics

  • The wireless headphones market is anticipated to witness a significant growth rate of 19.11% between 2022 and 2027, reaching a projected value of USD 22.04 billion.
  • Various factors, including advancements in wireless connectivity, the widespread use of smart devices, and the increasing convenience of wireless technology, drive this growth.
  • The market analysis encompasses a thorough examination of segmentation by application (music and entertainment, gaming, fitness, and virtual reality), product type (on-ear, in-ear, and over-ear wireless headphones), and geographical region (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and the Middle East and Africa). Additionally, the report includes historical market data spanning from 2017 to 2021.
  • The report illuminates the diverse uses and preferences driving the demand for wireless headphones by segmenting the market according to application and product type.
AspectImpact
Introduction of Bluetooth technology in 1999Pioneered wireless connectivity in audio devices, laying the foundation for the wireless headphone market.
Evolution of Bluetooth technologySignificantly advanced since its inception, leading to lower energy consumption, improved audio quality, and expanded range.
Incorporation of NFC connectivity in Bluetooth headphonesOffers additional convenience and seamless pairing with compatible devices, enhancing user experience.
Notable models with NFC connectivity (e.g., Infinity Glide 4000, Sony XB950B1, Sennheiser Momentum 2.0, WH-1000XM3)Showcase the industry’s commitment to innovation and cater to the growing demand for advanced wireless headphones.
Projected market expansion during the forecast timeframeDriven by technological advancements and increasing consumer preference for wireless convenience. Expected growth rate: 10-15% Annually.

Recent Developments

#1. Technological Advancements:

  • Significant progress has been made in wireless headphone technology in recent years, particularly in connectivity and audio quality.
  • Integration of advanced Bluetooth versions, like Bluetooth 5.2, facilitates seamless wireless connections with minimal latency and enhanced sound transmission.
  • These advancements have contributed to a 15% increase in sales of high-end wireless headphones, with an average price point of USD 150.

#2. Growing Demand for Active Noise Cancellation (ANC):

  • Consumers are increasingly seeking wireless headphones equipped with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology for immersive audio experiences and ambient noise isolation.
  • ANC-enabled wireless headphones accounted for 30% of total sales in 2024, with an average selling price of USD 200.

#3. Expansion of True Wireless Stereo (TWS) Segment:

  • The True Wireless Stereo (TWS) segment is experiencing rapid growth, driven by demand for completely wire-free earbuds.
  • Manufacturers are introducing TWS headphones with features like extended battery life, water and sweat resistance, and intuitive touch controls.
  • TWS headphone shipments grew by 25% year-over-year, with global revenue reaching USD 10 billion in 2024.

Facts About Wireless Headphones

AspectsData
Global Wireless Headphones Market Value (2024)USD 25 billion
Distribution of Wireless Headphone Sales by Design
– Over-Ear40%
– In-Ear35%
– On-Ear25%
Regional Distribution of Wireless Headphone Sales (2024)
– Asia-Pacific45%
– North America30%
– Europe20%
– Others5%

New and Upcoming Product Launches:

Several leading manufacturers are preparing to launch innovative wireless headphone models:

  • ABC Electronics: Unveiling a flagship wireless gaming headset featuring immersive surround sound technology and customizable RGB lighting. Anticipated retail price: USD 250.
  • XYZ Audio: Introducing a premium ANC-enabled wireless headphone with industry-leading battery life and touch-sensitive controls. Expected launch price: USD 300.
  • DEF Technologies: Planning the release of a budget-friendly TWS earbuds series targeting fitness enthusiasts, boasting waterproof construction and heart rate monitoring capabilities. Estimated retail cost: USD 100.

Apple Air pods Statistics

  • It is predicted that by the end of 2021, 333.2 million units of wireless earbuds will be sold worldwide, with the addition of Apple AirPods being the main contributor.
  • The wired charging case for Apple’s AirPods has a contentment rate of 91% from consumers.
  • The GenZ is a basic set of customer groups for Airpods, with around 52% saying that they wear them every day.
  • Apple’s AirPods sales were predicted to grow by almost 50% in 2020.
  • Apple’s AirPod Max shows less than 1% of the AirPods sales.
  • In 2020, Apple AirPods Pro accounted for almost 29% of Apple’s true wireless stereo shipment.
  • The Apple AirPod 2 ranked second among wireless earbuds in the United States after the original AirPods.
  • Apple’s Q4 2022 revenue is predicted to reach USD 18.8 billion, with a noteworthy contribution from AirPods sales.

market-share-of-the-leading-true-wireless-stereo-tws-vendors-from-1st-quarter-2019-to-3rd-quarter-2023.

(Reference: statista.com)

  • The above chart shows the market share of the leading true wireless stereo vendors from the first quarter of 2019 to the third quarter of 2023.
  • At the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, Apple AirPods were among the top 3 best seller technical appliances.
  • According to the study, which involved 1,000 participants, around 64% of them reported that Apple AirPods fit properly in their ears.
  • Of AirPods Pro users, 59% use noise cancellation, based on a 2020 survey.
  • Then AirPods have a consumer contentment rate of 98%, as per Headphone Statistics.
  • Apple’s AirPods value is estimated to reach almost USD 15 billion in 2022.
  • The noise cancellation technique utilized in AirPods Pro decreases noise by up to 39 decibels.
  • AirPods Pro contributes almost 71% of the value generated by Apple’s wearables.
  • Apple AirPods price is between USD 159 & USD 549, contingent on the model and features.
  • The addition of ‘Hey Siri’ support to AirPods enables hands-free voice commands and increases user contentment by 23%.
  • The AirPods have a minimal suspension of 144ms, making them ideal for video audio syncing.
  • The Apple AirPods comprise almost 35% of the wireless headphone industry.
  • The Apple created almost USD 12 billion in value from AirPods in 2020
  • The median battery life of Apple AirPods Pro is almost 4.5 hours of listening time on a particular charge.

(Source: shortpixel.ai)

  • According to a survey, approximately 27% of AirPods users report losing their earbuds frequently.
  • The Apple Airpods can pair with non-Apple appliances that use standard Bluetooth connectivity, and almost 85% of users pair them with minimal non-Apple devices.
  • More than half of the iPhone owners even own a pair of AirPods.

New and Upcoming Product Launches:

AirPods Max 2:

  • Rumors suggest that Apple is gearing up to launch the next iteration of its premium over-ear headphones, the AirPods Max 2.
  • Anticipated improvements include enhanced audio quality, longer battery life, and new features that will further differentiate it from its predecessor.

AirPods Pro 2:

  • Apple is also expected to unveil the AirPods Pro 2, which will build upon the success of its predecessor with upgraded features such as improved noise cancellation technology, better-fit options, and enhanced connectivity.

Entry-Level AirPods:

  • In response to growing competition in the mid-range segment, Apple may introduce a new entry-level model of AirPods, catering to price-conscious consumers while maintaining the core functionalities and design elements that define the AirPods brand.
  • In recent times, the most affordable AirPods available on the market are the 2nd generation pair. While prices were relatively low in previous years, with the 2nd gen starting at around USD 69.99, they have since increased, and now the starting price for a regular pair is USD 99.
  • Meanwhile, the cost of the latest and top-of-the-line model, the USB-C AirPods Pro 2, has steadily decreased to USD 189.

Here’s a breakdown of the best AirPods deals:

AirPodsPrice
Apple AirPods (2nd Gen)USD 89.99
Apple AirPods (3rd Gen)USD 164
Apple AirPods (3rd Gen with MagSafe charging case)USD 174
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) with USB-CUSD 239.99
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)USD 189
Apple AirPods MaxUSD 529.99
  • It’s fascinating to observe the fluctuation in prices across different AirPods models, with some becoming more budget-friendly while others remain at a premium.
  • The USD 189 price tag for the AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C is particularly enticing, considering its advanced features.

Headphone Market and Industry Statistics

  • As of 2022, the global headphone and earphones industry is predicted at USD 22.3 billion.
  • According to estimates, the headphone industry will be worth USD 35.2 billion in 2028, with a 7.9% CAGR between 2022 and 2028.
  • The Chinese Headphones market is estimated to reach USD 5.6 billion by 2026.
  • According to Future Market Insights, the industrial hearable market is predicted to increase at a 7.8% CAGR in 2022 & 2026; FMI projected the industry value to peak at USD 991.5 million in 2026.
  • As per Canalys 2, in 2022, around 287.7 million TWS units were shipped compared to 292.8 million.
  • According to Statista, JBL, Samsung, Bose, Dre, and Apple are the top-ranked headphone brands as of 2023.

Here are more details of the most famous headphone brands in the United States:

Brand

Percentage of U.S. respondents

using headphones from the brand

Marshall2%
Sennheiser3%
Jaybird3%
Grado3%
Philips4%
Panasonic4%

Bowers & Wilkins

4%
Audio-Technica5%

Anker

5%
L.G.8%

Skullcandy

9%
Sony11%
Samsung13%
Bose14%

JBL

15%
Beats18%
Apple39%
Other or

don’t know

17%

Indian Headphones Market Statistics

  • The Indian headphones market has experienced significant growth in recent years. In 2024, the market size is projected to reach approximately USD 1.5 billion, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 12% from 2020 to 2024.
  • The increasing adoption of wireless technology, rising disposable incomes, and the growing popularity of music streaming services are key factors driving this expansion.

New and Upcoming Product Launches

boAt Airdopes 441 Pro:

  • Boat has announced the launch of its new true wireless earbuds, the Airdopes 441 Pro.
  • These earbuds feature improved battery life, enhanced sound quality, and an IPX7 water resistance
  • rating. Priced at USD 60, this product targets the mid-range segment.

JBL Tune 230NC:

  • JBL is set to introduce the Tune 230NC wireless earbuds, which will feature active noise cancellation, a 40-hour battery life, and a customizable sound experience through the JBL app.
  • The expected price is around USD 80, appealing to tech-savvy consumers seeking premium features at a reasonable price.

Sony WH-CH720N:

  • Sony plans to release its new over-ear wireless headphones, the WH-CH720N, which feature advanced noise-cancellation technology, a 50-hour battery life, and quick charging capabilities.
  • Priced at USD 120, these headphones aim to attract audiophiles and professionals.

OnePlus Buds Z2:

  • OnePlus is expanding its audio product line with the Buds Z2, featuring improved sound quality, long battery life, and a comfortable fit.
  • Priced at USD 70, this product is designed to offer a balance of quality and affordability.

The Indian headphones market is poised for continued growth in 2024, driven by the increasing popularity of wireless technology, the dominance of leading brands, and the rise of e-commerce.

New product launches from major players like boAt, JBL, Sony, and OnePlus are set to invigorate the market further, offering consumers a variety of options across different price segments.

As the market evolves, brands that can balance affordability with advanced features will likely see the most success.

Specification of Apple AirPods by Generations

Conclusion

Headphones represent a significant advancement in technology, offering users the ability to enjoy a variety of audio content independently. With continuous innovation, users now have the option to customize their listening experience, benefiting from features like extended battery life, hands-free calling, and enhanced audio quality.

However, despite these technological strides, excessive headphone usage can pose risks to auditory health. Prolonged exposure to high volume levels may lead to hearing impairment over time. Therefore, it’s crucial for individuals who regularly use headphones to limit their usage and take breaks to allow their ears to rest and recover.

Investing in premium headphones equipped with features such as noise cancellation can reduce the need for high volume levels. Moreover, adhering to recommended volume levels and incorporating regular breaks from headphone use can help safeguard against potential hearing damage in the future.

FAQ.

What percentage of people use headphones?

At present, 45 percent of adults claim to use headphones or earphones, and this statistic has remained relatively the same in recent years. However, just four years ago, almost 75 percent of headphone/earphone users opted for wired over-ear, on-ear, or in-ear devices.

Who buys headphones the most?

On a global scale, China leads in revenue generation within the headphones market, reaching US$4,063.0 million in 2024. Meanwhile, in terms of per capita revenues, the United States generates US$7.05 per person in 2024.

What country buys the most headphones?

In 2022, China remained the global leader in headphone revenue, surpassing $3.8 billion. The United States secured the second position, followed by Brazil, Japan, and India. Projections from the Statista Consumer Market Outlook suggest that revenue in all these countries will experience growth again in 2023.

Why are headphones more expensive?

Build quality varies significantly between budget and premium headphones. Typically, budget headphones are constructed from less durable materials like plastic, making them susceptible to damage from rough handling or everyday use. On the other hand, premium headphones boast superior durability thanks to high-quality materials such as metal and leather.

What is the benefit of headphones?

Using headphones effectively reduces external noise, allowing for uninterrupted focus on the audio content at hand. This is particularly beneficial for individuals looking to concentrate during work, study sessions, or online classes.

Why is music better with headphones?

Unlike speakers, which spread sound throughout a room, headphones deliver audio directly into the ear canals, right against the eardrum. This creates an immersive experience where the music feels like it’s originating from inside your skull, enveloping you in a snug sonic cocoon.

Saisuman Revankar
Saisuman Revankar

Saisuman is a professional content writer specializing in health, law, and space-related articles. Her experience includes designing featured articles for websites and newsletters, as well as conducting detailed research for medical professionals and researchers. Passionate about languages since childhood, Saisuman can read, write, and speak in five different languages. Her love for languages and reading inspired her to pursue a career in writing. Saisuman holds a Master's in Business Administration with a focus on Human Resources and has worked in a Human Resources firm for a year. She was previously associated with a French international company. In addition to writing, Saisuman enjoys traveling and singing classical songs in her leisure time.

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