Creativity requires concentration. Coding and programming aren’t easy tasks, and if you want to do a good job, you need to focus.
Many coders call this “getting into the zone”. Once you’re in the zone, you’re entirely tuned into the task at hand, regardless of outside distractions.
But this bubble of concentration can be easily burst. Wearing headphones at work might seem a little strange, but it can go a long way to keeping your attention on the task at hand.
Let’s discuss three of the best headphones for coders and programmers to use, as well as what you should be looking for in a good set of headphones or earbuds.
Why Coders Need Headphones
Basically, offices aren’t ideal for work that requires creativity and concentration. Offices are full of noise as well as visual distractions. A coworker having a loud conversation with a client over the phone can shatter your focus, jerking you painfully out of the zone.
Once you’re in the zone, you can focus on a task almost without thinking. Completely attuned to the problem at hand, you enter an almost creative state of work. Most coders do their best work when they’re mid-flow, in the zone.
Just one poorly timed question from a coworker can ruin your flow.
Unfortunately, there isn’t too much you can do about this. Your coworkers need to do their work just as much as you. The modern open office space is the enemy to concentrated work and creative thinking.
So, what are your options? Putting your head down and hoping for the best?
Ideally, a good set of headphones can help you block out distracting sounds. They also discourage your coworkers from talking to you while you’re focusing on work.
Considerations Choosing Headphones
You might prefer subtle, in-ear wireless earbuds when you’re out and about, but when you’re sitting down to focus on work, it’s a good idea to have something a little more solid. Solid, visible headphones provide a visual deterrent to anyone thinking about disturbing you, as well as doing a good job of blocking out outside noise.
Over-ear headphones can be more comfortable to wear for long periods. Noise-isolating and canceling features help to provide top sound quality.
You might still choose wireless headphones, but if you’re planning to wear them for a full working day, you might find your headphones running out of charge more quickly than you’d like.
3 Best Headphones for Coders in 2021
Headphones that work fine for running around traffic or hitting the gym might be ineffective in an office environment. So, let’s take a look at the top three headphones ideal for coders.
Riwbox CT-7 Headphones
Girls are getting into coding more now than ever before and these notorious cute pink cat ear gaming headsets are incredibly popular among coders, programmers, streamers, and content creators. The Riwbox CT-7 are wireless, and use a Bluetooth 5.0 connection. They’re noise canceling, which is ideal for getting into the zone regardless of your surroundings. The microphone feature allows you to take and handle calls, if necessary.
Sony MDR-ZX110NC Headphones
If you’re looking for headphones that are a little more sleek and professional, the Sony MDR headphones could be your best bet.
These headphones are lightweight and comfortable. They’re wired, so you don’t need to worry about connectivity and battery life. While this particular model doesn’t come with a microphone, there are mic options available.
They’re also noise canceling, so if your chatty coworker doesn’t take the hint when you put on your headphones, you should still be able to focus on your work.
Bose QuietComfort 35 II Headphones
Last but certainly not least, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II are a set of Bluetooth headphones that offer everything you could need.
With top sound quality, up to 20 hours of battery life, a microphone, noise cancelation, and more, these are headphones you’ll want to use when relaxing at home, as well as at the office.
Overall Best Headphones
For sound quality, comfort, and professionalism, our number one pick is the Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones.
They present a pointed visual hint that you’re working and would like to be left alone, but also provide comfort, great sound quality, and allow you to deal with calls if necessary. While these headphones are higher in price than some other headsets, they’re the kind of headphones you’ll be happy enough to keep using at home and on the go. With the fabulous 20 hour playback time, you can easily manage that!
Getting in the famous Zone allows you to turn out the best work you can. Walking the fine line between anxiety and boredom, you can create and complete your tasks, performing to the best of your ability.
While office setups aren’t ideal in terms of productivity, a good set of headphones can help you shut out the distractions. It’s time to get to work!