Loop Earplugs vs. Eargasm: Which One Should You Choose?

It is not unusual to see people wearing earplugs at concerts, music festivals, or even inside busy offices. Many are looking for ways to manage noise levels while still enjoying music or conversations comfortably. Two popular brands that often come up in discussions are Loop and Eargasm. Each has a devoted group of fans, and both promise to reduce sound to a more comfortable level.

Because of the wide range of opinions and experiences out there, choosing between these two can feel tricky. On top of that, it's easy to confuse marketing slogans with practical benefits. This article offers a fact-based, in-depth look at Loop earplugs and Eargasm earplugs. The goal is to help you decide which option might suit you, based on real user experiences and key features of each brand.

We will walk through why people invest in earplugs for loud events, the main differences between noise-reducing earplugs and noise-cancelling headphones, and how Eargasm compares to Loop. We will also list a few extra factors to consider, share some real-life user feedback, and mention other notable alternatives. By the end, you should have a clearer view of these two popular brands and a framework for selecting earplugs that fit your lifestyle.

Earplugs: Why People Use Them

In today's world, noise is unavoidable, whether it's the constant hum of traffic, the chatter of a busy office, or the booming speakers at a live event. While some people seek silence for focus or relaxation, others simply want to manage excessive noise without feeling completely cut off from their surroundings. Earplugs have become a practical tool for many, offering a way to manage noise levels and create a more comfortable listening experience.

People use earplugs for a variety of reasons, ranging from blocking out background noise in open offices and public transport to enhancing comfort during travel. Some people use them to make noisy environments less disruptive during rest, while concert-goers and festival attendees wear them to enjoy music at a safer volume without distortion. Others find them useful in managing sensory overload, allowing them to navigate crowded spaces or social events with less stress. The growing need for noise control has led to an increased demand for earplugs that don’t just block sound but also filter it effectively.

With a variety of options available, choosing the right earplugs depends on their intended use. Foam earplugs, commonly found in drugstores, are inexpensive and effective at blocking out noise but can make speech and music sound muffled. Silicone earplugs offer a customizable fit and are often used for swimming and sleeping, while high-fidelity earplugs, such as those from Loop and Eargasm, are designed to reduce volume while maintaining clarity, making them ideal for concerts and social settings. More advanced electronic earplugs adjust noise levels dynamically, catering to musicians, professionals, and those who need selective sound filtering.

As more people look for ways to reduce noise exposure, interest in specialized earplugs continues to grow. Many people now prefer reusable, high-fidelity earplugs that provide comfort and adjustability without compromising sound quality. Whether the goal is to improve focus, reduce stress, or enjoy loud environments more safely, modern earplugs offer a balance between noise control and situational awareness, making them an essential tool for everyday life.

Understanding Noise Reduction

A common misconception is that noise-cancelling headphones do the same job as earplugs. While noise-cancelling headphones actively reduce certain background sounds (like a low-pitched hum or a droning motor), they do not necessarily function as proper ear protection against the overall volume of loud events. In fact, some noise-cancelling headphones have no official rating for lowering decibel exposure to safer levels.

Noise-reducing earplugs, on the other hand, physically reduce the volume that reaches your eardrum. They are not designed to remove every sound. Instead, they filter the audio so you can hear what's important (like the band on stage) without being overwhelmed by volume spikes or crowd noise. Essentially, noise-cancelling headphones are good at creating a personal bubble of silence in moderate environments, whereas high-fidelity earplugs help manage very loud volumes more comfortably.

Loop Earplugs

Loop has gained a lot of attention for its unique ring-shaped exterior and variety of color options. Beyond the looks, Loop’s earplugs (particularly their Loop Experience series) are intended to filter sound around 18 dB. They have also become popular for claims of comfort and a “barely-there” feel for some users.

Key Features

1. Noise Reduction: Loop Experience earplugs have a typical reduction around 18 dB, while the Loop Experience Pro model includes additional filters that can provide up to about 23 dB of reduction.

2. Distinct Aesthetic: The external ring (the “loop”) sits outside the ear, giving these earplugs a more stylish look. They come in multiple colors, such as black, silver, and sometimes more vibrant choices.

3. Range of Tip Sizes: Loop earplugs generally include multiple silicone tip sizes (XS, S, M, L). Some packages also come with foam tips if you purchase them as an add-on or find them through a specific Loop offering.

4. Compact Carry Case: Like Eargasm, Loop provides a small case. The Loop case is often described as practical, but less robust than a metal container. It can still be tossed in a bag without taking up much space.

Comfort and Fit

Many reviews from concert-goers and casual users say Loop earplugs fit well once the correct size tip is found. Because Loop usually includes four different sizes in the box, it often proves easier for people with either very small or somewhat large ear canals to find a decent match.

Some who have tried both Eargasm and Loop mention that Loop feels more comfortable for longer stretches, though this can be subjective. Those who prefer Loop often say the earplugs feel more balanced in the ear and less “plugged,” possibly because the loop design does not extend as deeply into the canal.

Real-World Use Cases

• Concerts: A large portion of feedback about Loop earplugs revolves around concert settings. Users say the earplugs filter out loud cheering or sudden volume spikes without destroying the overall sound of a performance.

• Everyday Noise: People also wear them in busy offices, on airplanes, or while riding subways. These earplugs reduce general noise, though they are not intended to produce complete silence.

• Festivals: Some folks mention wearing Loop all day at a festival, sometimes as long as eight hours, without discomfort. They stay put during dancing, singing along, and even heavy headbanging, as reported by more energetic festival fans.
  

Eargasm Earplugs

Eargasm offers a few different products, but the standard versions and the newer Eargasm Clicks are the most frequently mentioned models in user reviews. Many people know Eargasm for the sturdy aluminum carry case and for the brand's approach to filtering sound in a way that aims to keep music clarity intact.

Key Features

1. Noise Reduction Rating (NRR): Eargasm products often claim to lower noise by around 15-16 dB for standard models. The Eargasm Clicks can reduce up to 21 dB, depending on how they are fitted and which tips are used.

2. Carrying Case: One of Eargasm's popular selling points is an aluminum container that is small enough to hook onto a keychain. Many owners appreciate having a secure place to store or transport earplugs without worrying they might pop open.

3. Different Ear Tip Sizes: Several Eargasm products offer two sizes of ear tips in the package, typically small and large. Some users note that they would prefer more size options, but they also mention that the tips provided can work well for many ears if inserted correctly.

4. Transparent Design: While the look varies among Eargasm products, some of their earplugs are semi-transparent, giving them a subtle, low-profile appearance.

Comfort and Fit

Though the ear tips come in different sizes, some individuals report a bit of trial and error when getting the correct seal. The standard Eargasm earplugs must be inserted in a way that can feel slightly snug. For some, this is comfortable enough, but others have said they find the pressure uncomfortable after several hours or that the plugs feel slightly loose. User feedback indicates that results vary widely, partly because each ear canal is unique.

Because the brand provides only two main sizes in many of its products, you may need to try each one to see which fits better. A correct seal is critical to achieving the full noise-reduction benefit. Some people say they initially thought Eargasm earplugs were not doing much until they repositioned them more firmly in the ear.

Real-World Use Cases

• Concerts and Music Festivals: People who wear Eargasm earplugs to live shows often say that the product effectively filters out excessive volume, letting them hear the artist more clearly than they would with standard foam plugs. Some reviews mention that crowd noise and especially loud cheering gets toned down, which can reduce the sense of being overwhelmed.

• Everyday Environments: A smaller portion of users wear Eargasm plugs in their daily lives for offices, urban commutes, or other loud environments. They do not block out everything, but they reduce background clamor enough to be less distracting.

• Problems Encountered: Occasionally, individuals note that they hear themselves singing or talking more loudly than expected, which can feel somewhat awkward. However, this is a common side-effect of many in-ear earplugs that create a seal.

Eargasm Click

Eargasm released a design called Eargasm Click, which allows for slightly higher noise reduction (up to 21 dB). They also come with different tip sizes for better customization. The difference is subtle, but those who have tried Eargasm Click often say they are a step forward in terms of balancing clarity and comfort compared to older products. They aim to address the comfort concerns by providing more tip size variations.

Head-to-Head Comparison

When trying to figure out which earplugs might be right for you, it helps to compare Loop and Eargasm in a few key areas: comfort, noise reduction, ease of use, and cost. Both brands aim to preserve a “cleaner” music listening experience while lowering the volume to a more manageable level. Let’s break down these points one by one.

Comfort

• Eargasm: Comes with two main ear tip sizes in many of the brand’s products. Some users who find neither tip size comfortable may end up feeling slight pressure or worry about the plugs loosening during a show.

• Loop: Offers four sizes of silicone tips by default. Because of this variety, many people say Loop is easier to adjust for the right fit. Loop’s ring shape also seems to help with general comfort.

Sound Quality

Both earplugs are often described as “high fidelity.” In simpler terms, this means they aim to lower the volume without making everything sound muffled. Neither brand guarantees complete clarity—there is always a slight shift in the audio profile, but it tends to be less dramatic compared to foam earplugs.

• Eargasm: Some owners say Eargasm produces a slightly clearer audio experience, especially with the Eargasm Click model. This might come at the cost of a bit less comfort for certain ear shapes.

• Loop: Many reviews mention that Loop earplugs offer a balanced experience, where the volume is lowered, but you can still distinguish instruments and vocals.

Durability and Care

High-fidelity earplugs generally require basic cleaning and storage in a case. Neither brand is a single-use product, so it’s important to clean them regularly.

• Eargasm: Known for the sturdy metal container that can be attached to a keyring. The ear tips themselves hold up well, but they need occasional washing with mild soap and water.

• Loop: Supplied with a small case. The silicone tips are also washable, but because of the ring-shaped design, some people recommend taking a bit of extra care to make sure no debris is stuck.

Price and Accessories

Prices can vary based on sales or package bundles, but both Eargasm and Loop are usually in a somewhat similar price range. Eargasm’s cost includes that metal keychain case, while Loop’s box has extra tip sizes. Neither brand is so costly that it is off-limits to the average concert attendee, especially when compared to custom-molded earplugs that can cost far more.

Factors to Consider Before Buying

Intended Use and Noise Levels

Different environments require different levels of noise reduction. Understanding where and how you plan to use your earplugs will help you pick the right model.

• Everyday Use (Offices, Coffee Shops, Public Transport - 60-85 dB): If you need to lower background noise while still staying aware of conversations and alerts, standard noise-reducing earplugs like Loop Experience or Eargasm High Fidelity provide a comfortable balance.

• Loud Work Environments (Workshops, Construction Sites, Busy City Streets - 90-100 dB): If your goal is to manage constant loud noise from tools, traffic, or industrial sounds, earplugs with moderate noise reduction can help improve focus and comfort.

• Entertainment & Social Events (Concerts, Sports Arenas, Nightclubs - 100+ dB): If you’re frequently exposed to high-volume music or cheering crowds, earplugs that preserve sound clarity while lowering volume, such as Loop Experience Pro or Eargasm Clicks, might be a better fit.

• Extreme Noise (Motor Racing, Fireworks, Industrial Machinery - 110 dB+): For exceptionally loud environments, higher noise reduction ratings (NRR) are important. While both Loop and Eargasm offer effective noise filtering, some situations may require additional protective gear.

Personal Fit and Ear Canal Shape

Ear canals vary greatly from person to person, so the only definitive way to know if something is comfortable is to try it. Ideally, look for earplugs that come with multiple tip sizes. If you suspect your canals are smaller or larger than average, that might influence your decision.

Maintenance and Care

Reusable earplugs, no matter which brand you choose, function best when kept clean. Oils, dirt, or earwax can build up, affecting the quality of the seal. A gentle wash with warm water and mild soap, followed by thorough air drying, is a routine many people use. Regular cleaning helps maintain performance and comfort.

Style Preferences

If you care about how your earplugs look, Loop offers a pretty distinctive design with a ring that can come in various colors. Eargasm’s design leans more toward subtle and transparent. Some individuals like the idea of a visible ring as a statement or do not mind it, while others prefer something that draws little attention. It is purely a matter of personal taste.

Other Earplug Alternatives on the Market

Ozlo Sleepbuds®

An amazingly restful and peaceful sleep every night, free from distractions and noise, is the greatest gift you can give!

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Sleepbuds® play audio for up to ten hours, letting you enjoy our noise-masking tracks or stream anything you like, including audiobooks, podcasts, white noise, and YouTube.

The Ozlo Difference

At Ozlo, we're dedicated to helping you achieve the best sleep possible through innovative audio solutions. Our company, founded by three former Bose engineers, focuses on creating products that not only help you fall asleep, but stay asleep throughout the night.

Ozlo Sleepbuds® simply don’t feel like other earbuds. Sleepbuds stay in place even when you toss and turn. The tiny earbuds, with their comfortable silicone tips and anchor-in-place wings, are designed for all-night comfort, no matter your sleeping position. Sleep on your back, side, or whatever works for you, and Ozlo Sleepbuds® will remain in place throughout the night.

Key Highlights

• Founded by three former Bose engineers with extensive experience in audio tech
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• Up to 10 hours of continuous use with extra charges from the Smart Case.
• Built-in biometric and environmental sensors offering personalized sleep reports
• Personal alarm gently wakes you without disturbing your partner

Learn More

Balancing Hearing Health with Enjoyment

One of the reasons people use noise-reducing earplugs is to make loud environments more comfortable over extended periods. While managing noise exposure is a common recommendation, earplugs are primarily designed for comfort and sound reduction rather than any specific protective claim. However, many concert fans find that high-fidelity earplugs are a simple and proactive way to make a loud event more comfortable and potentially less jarring to the ears.

That said, how much noise reduction you need can differ. Some individuals might be perfectly fine with a moderate level (such as 16-18 dB), while others might prefer something higher, especially if they often go to very loud festivals or they simply feel more at ease with a higher reduction rating.

Conclusion

Choosing between Loop and Eargasm earplugs comes down to personal preference, comfort, and the type of noise reduction you need. Both brands offer high-fidelity earplugs that lower volume while maintaining clarity, making them a great option for concerts, travel, work, and daily use. Loop stands out for its stylish design and multiple ear tip sizes, while Eargasm is known for its sturdy carrying case and straightforward fit.

If you’re looking for earplugs to enhance your experience in loud environments without feeling completely isolated, either brand can be a solid choice. The best way to find the right fit is to consider your lifestyle, how long you plan to wear them, and the level of noise reduction that works best for you. Ultimately, the right pair of earplugs can help make noisy environments more manageable, whether you’re at a live event, on your daily commute, or just trying to focus in a busy space.

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