In this way, the sound is structure-borne and transmits through the air. Due to this nature, the speaker is often used in wearables that have the speakers fit against the ear, such as earphones or glasses. The product features waterproof and transparent awareness about the surrounding environment.

Another kind of speaker that involves structure-born vibration is called exciter speaker This is sometimes termed as vibration speaker or shaker. Similar to bone conduction actuators, the speaker functions by vibrating a rigid surface that got taped or screwed on to create airborne sound. Importantly, the chosen surface then acts as a speaker diaphragm to propagate sound via air.

Vibration speakers made of materials with higher magnetic flux density, lower electrical resistance, higher thermal conductivity, and higher durability provide better performance.

Some of the applications where these speakers are used are: Home theater and multi-room audio where visibility is a concern; Retail product displays, advertising signage or multimedia exhibits; Doors, ceiling panels, windows, projection screens and other surfaces that can be vibrated.

Finally, a very special, motor-like category is called electromagnetic linear vibration actuator (ELVA), intended for vibration testing, modal analysis, or haptic feedback.