Why You Can’t Stop Your Earbuds from Getting All F**king Tangled Up

No matter how carefully I place my earbuds in the drawer by the back door, this always happens.

Tangled earbuds

At least that’s what I thought happened.  But there’s actually some real science at work.  Look at this chart.

String tangles

Clear now?  No?  Let me translate.  Apple’s earbuds are 139 cm long, which puts them right at the 50% tangle rate, which is at the top of this curve.  In other words, it’s inevitable.

For a more comprehensive explanation, go to Business Insider.  It probably won’t help you much with your tangle problem, but at least you’ll know there’s a scientific reason for it.

Alan Cross

is an internationally known broadcaster, interviewer, writer, consultant, blogger and speaker. In his 40+ years in the music business, Alan has interviewed the biggest names in rock, from David Bowie and U2 to Pearl Jam and the Foo Fighters. He’s also known as a musicologist and documentarian through programs like The Ongoing History of New Music.

One thought on “Why You Can’t Stop Your Earbuds from Getting All F**king Tangled Up

  • June 13, 2014 at 11:39 am
    Permalink

    Go to ebay and search earbud wrap and you will find many solutions.

    Reply

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