The introduction of electronic ear protection has largely improved working in loud environments such as factories, construction sites and even shooting guns. The following is a review of the two of best electronic hearing protection: Howard Leight and Walker Razor.
Electronic hearing protection is an essential tool for anyone working in a loud environment. Whether you are shooting a gun or working in a lumberyard, you need to protect your ears against harmful loud sound while still being able to hear people around you. There are two very frequently compared electronic hearing protection today: Howard Leight and Walker Razors. The following table highlights their major differences.
What are the differences between Howard Leight and Walkers?
Howard Leight Impact Sport |
Walker Razor |
|
Noise reduction rating |
22 dB (decibels) |
23 dB |
Comfort padding |
Thin padded headband |
Thick paddings |
Battery life |
350 hours
|
N/A |
Sound activation protection rating |
82 dB |
89 dB |
Foldability |
Light, small and compact folding |
Low profile folding |
Availability |
Howard Leight vs Walker’s Razor – How do they compare?
Battery life
No one wants to keep changing batteries in the middle of a hunt or shooting practice. This is why battery life is so essential when it comes to hearing protection headsets.Both the Howard and Razor ear protection are powered using 2 AAA batteries. However, the Howard Leightis better since it has a longer battery life of 350 hours.While the Walker Razor is not rated, customers have reported that the Howard Leight lasts longer with up to two weeks of continuous run time.With this, you will never find yourself out of power in the middle of a workday.
Comfort paddings
Ear protection are generally worn for long periods of hours. Because of this, you should always pick the most comfortable hearing protection. Here, Walker Razors have the edge since they have a thicker padding and better ear fitting. The heavy padding on the Walker guarantees comfort and the round design perfectly covers the ears. On the other hand, Howard Leight contains a thin vinyl headband that isn’t very comfortable compared to the Razor. Furthermore, the angled edges on the earmuffs prevents them from gripping the ears properly.
Noise reduction rating (NRR)
It is the measure of how hearing protection lowers the noise level of sound that is reaching the ears. NRR is measured in decibels (dB). The general rule of thumb is, the higher the number rating, the more protection it provides. Very loud environments such as factories need a NRR of between 26 and 30 dB while less loud activities such as mowing the lawn need NRR of about 21dB.Essentially, noise reduction rating is the most important factor to look at when buying hearing protection. Once again, the Walker is better because it offers a higher rating of 23 dB compared to the 22 dB on the Howard Leight. However, both of them are fit for day to day noisy environment but the extra decibel on the Walker Razor give it an edge.
Foldability and size
Hearing protection earmuffs are designed to fold for easier packing and portability. Here, the Walker earmuffs are better as they fold into a smaller and more compact size.Nonetheless, both are considered slim profile earmuffs and great for travel, but if you’re really tight on space, the Walker’s Razor are the more appropriate choice.
Sound activation protection rating
The protection rating refers to the minimum noise level at which the earmuffs activate and protect against noise. The lower the rating, the safer the hearing protection earmuffs are. Howard Leight are better as they have a low activation rating of 82 dB compared to the 89 dB on the Walkers. What this means is when the ambient noise level reaches and exceeds 82 dB, the Howard Leight activates and shuts off amplification.
Howard Leight vs Walker’s Razor – A comparison overview
Howard Leight Impact Sport
- Built-in directional microphones amplify range commands and other ambient sounds to a safe 82 dB,...
- Actively listens and automatically shuts off amplification when ambient sound reaches 82 dB; Noise...
- Features low profile earcups for firearm stock clearance; adjustable headband for secure fit; compact...
- Includes AUX input and 3.5 mm connection cord for MP3 players and scanners. Integrated power/volume knob
The Honeywell Company have some of the most affordable hearing protection earmuffs in the market today. Howard Leight Sport are the company’s best-selling earmuffs and it’s not difficult to see why. These headsets feature a noise reduction rating (NRR) of 22 dB which is decent for an entry level headset. It is fit for mowing the lawn as well as shooting in a gun range.
The Impact Sport are able to significantly reduce loud noises while still allowing the user to hear the surrounding ambient noise such as people talking. Furthermore, these headsets come with 3.5mm input jack that allows the user to play music as they work. They are also equipped with an automatic shutdown feature that shuts them down after four hours. To power the Howard Leight Sport, you need 2 AAA batteries. The battery life is rated at 350 hours which has been tested and proven by many users. Additionally, these earmuffs fold to a small size for easy packing and is water resistant. When it comes to design, the Howard Leight is low profile with slightly rectangular earmuffs that are lined with thin vinyl paddings. The headsets are available in nine colors.
Pros
- It is affordable
- Long battery life of 350 hours
- Howard Leight Sport is water resistant
- Automatic shutoff after 4 hours conserves energy
Cons
- Thin padding makes it less comfortable
- Rectangular earmuffs may not fit perfectly against the ear
Walker’s Razor Slim
- Razor" Ultra-thin rubberized cups with NRR 23dB protection
- Two Omni Directional microphones
- Provides sound Activated protection over 89 dB at 0. 02 reaction time
- Operates on 2 'AAA' Batteries- included
The Walker Razor Slim headset gets its name from its compact nature. This headsets folds nicely into a small size that will fit perfectly in a small bag. Furthermore, they are very light in design to enhance portability. In addition, the Walkers have the one of the best NRR for an entry level protection headset. At 23 dB, it is suitable for a hunt as well as construction sites. The Walker razor also have it right in terms of comfort. Both the earmuffs and strap are lined with thick spongy material for comfort on the ears. This material also improves stretching ability so that even people with large heads can use them. Like the Howards, this headset also comes with a 3.5mm jack for music. However, the sound quality is questionable. Additionally, the Walkers come with two high definition microphones that allow you to hear people and the environment around you.
Walker Razor is also powered by 2 AAA batteries. Unlike the Howard Leight, Walker Razor does not provide a battery life for their product.
Pros
- Very cheap and affordable
- High definition microphones sensitive to ambient surrounding sound
- Good NRR of 23 dB
- Folds into a small and compact size perfect for packing
- Round earmuff design grips perfectly onto the hear
- Thick padding for maximum comfort
Cons
- Sound quality for music is not good
Conclusion
All in all, there is not much to split these two products. They are both entry level hearing protection sets that are used in similar loud environments. However, the Walker Razor is cheaper and offers a higher NRR rating while the Howard Leight is more durable and offers longer battery life.
So which is better? Howard Leight or Walker Razor Slim?
Considering the most essential factors, Walker Razor is the better choice of the two. It offers a higher noise reduction rating and is more comfortable; all at a more pocket friendly price. The Impact Sport is equally as good in noise reduction but fails to excel in design and comfort.
FAQs
-
Does the Walker Razor have automatic shutdown?
Yes. After four hours, it automatically shuts down when not in use
-
Are Howard Leight Impact Sport water resistant?
Yes. All Howard Leight hearing protection headsets are water resistant.
