What are The Earring Back Types?

Flat Backs

Flat backs are distinguished by their smooth, flat piece that rests against the ear, making them a preferred choice for comfort and a streamlined look. These backs are particularly favored for cartilage piercings because they minimize discomfort and are less likely to catch on clothing or hair. However, they can be more challenging to handle, especially during the process of putting them on or taking them off, and typically offer fewer decorative options compared to other earring-back types. Most flat backs are crafted from hypoallergenic materials such as surgical steel, titanium, or gold, accommodating those with sensitive skin. The cost for flat backs generally falls into the mid-range category, with prices varying based on the material used, with gold and titanium being pricier than surgical steel.

Butterfly Backs

Butterfly backs, also known as push backs, feature a small, typically metal, component that slides onto the earring post. They are so named for their wing-like appearance and are among the most common earring backs due to their ease of use. These backs are fairly secure and suitable for daily wear but are known to loosen over time, which can increase the risk of losing an earring if not regularly checked and tightened. Usually made from the same metal as the earring, such as silver, gold, or base metal coated in a precious metal, butterfly backs are an economical choice often included with earrings at no additional cost.

Ball Backing

Ball backing consists of a small ball that screws onto the earring post from behind the earlobe, offering a secure and visually distinct alternative to more traditional earring backs. The visible ball adds a unique decorative element to the back of the ear, providing a bit of style even from behind. Although they provide enhanced security because they screw on, making them less likely to fall out, they can be cumbersome to handle and might feel bulky or uncomfortable behind the ear, depending on their size. Typically made from metals like sterling silver, gold, or stainless steel to match the earrings, ball backs are slightly more expensive than butterfly backs due to their design and added security features.

Push Backs (Butterfly Backs)

Push backs, also known as butterfly backs, are popular earring backs. Push backs have a straight, hollow tube that slides onto the earring post. They are made of metal or plastic and have decent durability. They are comfortable, easy to use, fairly discreet, and secure the earring if properly closed. They are suitable for lightweight earrings but can slide off easily and may not be secure enough for heavier earrings. Common pushback colors are metallics (gold, silver, rose gold), black, and clear for inconspicuous wear. 

Fish Hooks

Fish hook earring backs have a curved wire hook. They are easy to put on/take off and provide a secure fit. Fish hooks are generally durable and comfortable but may rub against the ear. They are usually made of metal, such as surgical steel. Metallics (gold, silver, rose gold) and black are common fish hook colors. 

Clip-Ons

Clip-on earring backs are an alternative to on-pierced earring backs. Unlike on-pierced earring backs, they don’t require piercing and are easy to put on/off. Their hinges grip the earlobe, so they might not be as comfortable and secure as on-pierced earring backs; they can fall off easily. Their materials are usually metal or plastic. They are visible on the ear and have average durability. Clip-ons may come in a wider variety of colors to match earrings.

Lever Backs (Latch Backs)

Lever backs, also known as latch backs, have a metal lever mechanism that opens and closes to secure the earring post. They are suitable for most styles. Lever backs are made of metal and are fairly discreet. However, the lever can be uncomfortable for some. Metallics (gold, silver, rose gold) are common colors for lever backs.

Screw Backs

Screw backs have a durable metal threaded post that screws onto the earring post. They are suitable for heavier earrings and are very secure if tightened properly. They can be difficult to put on and remove and may not be suitable for all ear piercings. They are somewhat visible. Common colors for screw backs are metallics (gold, silver, rose gold). 

Magnetic Backs

Magnetic backs are flat backs with a magnet that attaches to a magnetic earring. They are easy to on/off, fairly discreet, and comfortable as they do not grip the earlobe. They are not very secure and have limited styles. Magnetic backs may come in a wider variety of colors to match earrings. They are relatively more expensive than other earring-back types.

Locking Backs (La Pousette Backs)

Locking backs are popular metal backs. They have a small hinged lock that secures around the post. While they can be challenging to lock and unlock, this makes them very secure. They are comfortable, durable, and fairly discreet, which is why they are a good option for expensive earrings. Common colors for locking backs are metallics (gold, silver, rose gold). 

Hinged Backs (Huggie Backs)

Hinged backs are often used for huggie/hoop earrings. They may be challenging to open/close and not be suitable for all ear piercings, but they are quite secure, comfortable, and barely visible. They offer a unique look and are great for both casual and formal wear. They are made of precious or alternative metals. Common colors for hinged backs are metallics (gold, silver, rose gold). 

French Clips (Omega Clips)

French clips, also known as omega clips, are similar to clip-ons but designed for pierced ears. They are shaped like the Greek letter omega (Ω). These backs have a metal lever that flips up to close and down to open. They are suitable for various earring styles and are easy to put on and remove. They are secure in general but may not be secure enough for heavy earrings. Common French clip colors are metallics (gold, silver) and black.

Threader Backs

Threader earring backs are designed for threader earring styles. They involve a durable metal chain or thread that threads through the ear. They offer a minimalist appearance and comfortable wear that is hidden behind the ear. However, they may not be very secure. Common threader back colors are metallics (gold, silver, rose gold). 

Comfort Clutch Backs

Comfort clutch backs consist of a small silicone or plastic piece. They press against the earlobe for a more secure and comfortable fit compared to traditional butterfly backs. They are generally secure and durable. They are suitable for most styles. They are somewhat visible and can look slightly bulky.  Common comfort clutch back colors are metallics (gold, silver, rose gold), black, and clear for inconspicuous wear. Their prices vary depending on the material and whether they’re sold individually or in bulk.

Barrel Backs

Barrel backs are used with heavier earrings in general. They provide security against loosening. They are somewhat visible and consist of a threaded barrel, which may sometimes cause discomfort and be difficult to screw/on or off. Barrel backs are very durable and made up of metal. They are suitable for dangling and drop styles. Common barrel back colors are metallics (gold, silver, rose gold) and clear for inconspicuous wear. Their prices can vary depending on the material and whether they’re sold individually or in bulk.

Safety Backs

Safety backs are popular among children’s earrings since they are comfortable and snap onto the earring post. They have a durable, small plastic or rubber cap. Safety backs are very comfortable but quite visible and may look less stylish than other earring backs. They are typically more affordable. Safety back colors are typically clear for inconspicuous wear but may come in a limited variety of colors. Their prices can vary depending on the material and whether they’re sold individually or in bulk.