If you are a beep-dig hunter, you can probably hunt without them. But if you really want to hear what your target sounds like they are a must. Yes, they are hot, but if it's cool your're after you can always stay home in the air conditioning. I've tried ear buds; they are cooler but just don't have the fidelity to really hear what your detector is telling you. And, of course, if you are hunting with a partner they are a must, as they are when you are in a noisy environment like a windy day, near traffic, or at the seashore.... But if your choice is el cheapo headphones or speaker, you're hunting alone in a quiet surrounding.....why not. A good set of phones can make a big difference in hearing a deep, soft target, one you won't even hear on the speaker.