Ear Tips

Why the tip matters

With earbuds that sit inside the ear, fit matters more than almost anything else. A tip that seals the ear canal properly keeps the bass full, blocks outside noise so you do not need to turn the volume up, and holds the bud in place. A tip that is too small lets sound leak out and the bud fall out. One that is too big presses and aches after half an hour. Spare tips suit anyone whose tips have torn, gone missing or stopped sealing, and anyone who never found the size that came in the box comfortable.

What the tips here are like

The tips in this range are push-fit replacements made to fit particular earbuds. Today they include memory foam tips for AirPods Pro 2, in sizes from extra small to large; silicone tips for Galaxy Buds Pro, in small, medium and large sets and a choice of colours; and memory foam tips made for several KZ in-ear earphones. Each product page names the earbuds it is made to fit. These are compatible tips, not made by the earbud maker.

Silicone or foam

• Silicone tips are the usual kind. They are easy to clean and last a long time.
• Memory foam tips are squeezed small, put in the ear, and expand to fill it. They often seal better and block more noise, but wear out sooner and need replacing more often, and foam collects dirt over time.

Finding your size

Most in-ear earbuds come with the medium size fitted. Many people need a different size, and it is common to need a different size in each ear. Try each size for a few minutes with music playing. The right one feels secure when you move your jaw and shake your head, and the music sounds fuller as it seals. Some earbud apps include a fit test that plays a sound and checks the seal.

Questions people ask about ear tips

Will these tips fit my earbuds?

Only the earbuds named on each tip's page. Tips come in different shapes and widths where they push onto the earbud, so choose by your exact earbuds.

When should I replace ear tips?

When they have torn, lost their spring or will not come clean. A fresh pair often makes old earbuds sound new, and a good seal lets you keep the volume lower. NHS hearing services suggest no more than about 60 per cent of the maximum.

How long does delivery take?

Delivery is included in every price and tracked to your door. Each product page says when it usually arrives.

More to look at

• Bluetooth earbuds
• Earbud cases and covers
• Wired earphones
• Port and earbud brushes
• Phone cleaning kits
• Guide: Earphones and earbuds for your phone
• Guide: How to clean your phone safely