Yes the sound from ear pads may be lower, but that is better for long term ear health. I agree that it is more likely to leak out and disturb others but that fact helps me keep the volume at a sensible level. (Most of the time!)
Some earpads are really comfortable to use and sits better, while I've experienced mishaps with earbuds when they decide to slip out of my ear/s at the slightest tug of the wire.
I still prefer earbuds because they cancel out noise from outside and vice versa. Not to mention every track sounds better and clearer with good earbuds. I agree that it's not very healthy for the ears though, but as adults, we should already have that responsibility of taking care of ourselves.
I'm currently using KOSS iphone earbuds and they're pretty cool. The best thing that fit in my ears so far.
I prefer earpads. I find that earbuds slip out of my ears too easily and after a while the inside of my ears become sore. Earbuds would be more discrete so you are less liable to be mugged.
Songs4Life Messages: 36 Registered: August 2010 Location: Somewhere between the twe...
Baron
Earbuds for me. Nothing like a set of well-fitting earbuds for total immersion in the music you are listening to. Not recommended for use while driving, though. If you have to, use one earbud. Then you can still hear outside noises with your other ear.