When choosing earrings, most of us simply wear the backs that come with them — usually standard butterfly (or scroll) backs. But there are actually many different types of earring backs, each designed for comfort, security, weight support or ease of use.

Some are better for:

• heavy or drooping earrings

• sensitive ears

• valuable earrings such as diamond studs

• children’s earrings

• drop or hook earrings

In this guide, we’ll explain the most common types of earring backs, how they work, and the pros and cons of each — so you can choose the right option for your earrings and lifestyle.

👉 If you’re short on time and just want our top recommendations, see our guide to the Best Earring Backs That Stay On.

Butterfly (Scroll / Friction) Earring Backs

These are the most common earring backs and come with most stud earrings.

They work by gently gripping the post using two small curled “scrolls”, sometimes aided by grooves on the earring post itself.

Pros

• Easy to use

• Widely available

• Inexpensive (especially in silver or plastic)

Cons

• Can loosen over time

• Easy to lose

• Can trap dirt and bacteria if not cleaned regularly

If you have sensitive ears, choose butterfly backs made from precious metals. Even though the back doesn’t go through the piercing, irritation can still occur if you’re metal-sensitive.

Secure Earring Backs (LOX & Chrysmela)

Modern locking earring backs are designed specifically to prevent loss.

Rather than relying on friction alone, these backs lock onto the post, making them ideal for precious earrings, active lifestyles, or anyone tired of losing studs.

• LOX: affordable, easy to use, interchangeable and extremely secure

• Chrysmela: premium locking backs with added lift and weight support

👉 We cover both in detail in our Best Earring Backs guide.

Screw-Back Earrings

Traditionally used with diamond studs and children’s earrings, screw backs feature a threaded post and a back that twists on like a nut.

Pros

• Very secure

• Long-lasting

Cons

• Slower to put on and remove

• Replacement backs must match the exact thread

• Less common today

Clip-On Earrings

Clip-on earrings are ideal for those without pierced ears, but are also worn by people with piercings.

They close via a hinged clip that presses gently against the earlobe.

Pros

• No piercing required

• No separate backs to lose

• Often kinder for heavier earrings

Cons

• Harder to find

• Can pinch if the clip is tight

Omega (French Clip) Earring Backs

Omega backs combine pierced and clip-style designs. The post goes through the ear and closes into an oval-shaped hinged clip at the back.

Pros

• Extremely comfortable

• Very secure

• Easy to put on

Cons

• Can pinch slightly if the hinge is tight

• Less commonly sold today

Earring Backs for Extra Support (Plastic Support Pads)

Large plastic pads sit behind the earlobe to spread the weight of heavier earrings. Some are combined with push-back fittings.

Pros

• Excellent support for heavy earrings

• Reduce drooping

• Easy to use

Cons

• Not the most discreet option

Hook (French Wire) Earrings

Also called hook earrings, these simply thread through the ear and hang freely.

Pros

• Easy to insert

• Comfortable

• Elegant for drop earrings

Cons

• Surprisingly easy to lose

Plastic Safety Backs for Hook Earrings

Small clear rubber stoppers slide onto the end of the hook to prevent earrings slipping out — highly recommended for everyday wear.

Latch Backs (Saddle Backs)

Commonly found on hoop earrings, these click into place via a curved “saddle”.

Pros

• Comfortable

• Easy to use

• Can be tightened by a jeweller

Cons

• May loosen over time

Leverbacks (Continental Fittings)

Used on drop or dangle earrings, leverbacks close with a hinged latch behind the ear.

Pros

• Very secure

• Ideal for longer earrings

Cons

• Can be fiddly to insert

Replacing or Tightening Earring Backs

Most jewellers carry spare backs in silver, gold and plastic.

Butterfly backs can often be gently tightened by squeezing the scrolls together — either by a jeweller or carefully at home with fine-nosed pliers.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right earring back can dramatically improve comfort, security and confidence — especially for earrings you wear often or value highly.

For everyday wear and peace of mind, we recommend:

• LOX for value and versatility

• Chrysmela for premium security

👉 See our full comparison in Best Earring Backs That Stay On.

As always, feel free to get in touch if you’d like advice on replacing or upgrading your earring backs.