I purchased these based off of reviews that I read and how one reviewer said her sons expensive headset was no better than these, I beg to differ. I gave material quality a 4 cause they last about 6 to 9 months with good care. This headset is clearly sub par, I opted to get a cheaper headset this go around just to see if it fit my needs. I read the reviews before purchasing this microphone and decided this was probably the most comparable to my requirements and equipment. I bought a pair for each of my granddaughters. Once done, I wear them in and out of my house and the earbuds are smart enough to adapt to my surrounding noise level so that it always cancels the outside noises. So far not completely unraveling, so its OK. I like the neck cord style as its easier to not lose and can take one/both out hang aroudn your neck without having to find somewhere to put them. then raise and lower yourself on the balls of your feet. I am a big sennheiser fan and I have owned many of their mid to high end products.