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Buying headphones sounds simple, until you have to choose between wireless headphones, Bluetooth earbuds, wired earbuds or a gaming headset. Marketing terms such as “studio-quality”, “AI calls” and “noise cancelling” sound appealing, but they do not always tell you enough about comfort, compatibility or battery life.
The right choice depends mainly on where and why you listen. Do you use headphones for train journeys, working from home, exercise, calls or gaming? Check the connection, fit, microphone and battery first, rather than focusing only on the brand name or individual features.
With noise-cancelling headphones, it is important to check whether they use active noise cancellation (ANC) or only passive sound isolation. ANC uses electronics to reduce surrounding noise. Over-ear headphones with well-fitting ear cushions physically block out some sound instead.
Claims about noise cancellation, call quality or sound enhancement come from the manufacturer. According to Samsung’s own information, for example, the Galaxy Buds4 Pro feature adaptive ANC and six microphones. That is a product specification, not a guarantee that every user will have the same experience in every environment.
A USB Type-C headset does not automatically work with every device that has a USB-C port. Some phones, tablets and laptops do not support audio via USB-C or require specific settings. Therefore, check compatibility before buying.
A 3.5mm connection is often practical for consoles, laptops and older smartphones, but many new phones no longer have a headphone port. A wireless model, on the other hand, requires Bluetooth support and regular charging.
The stated playback time depends on volume, codec, ANC, microphone use and connections to multiple devices. For example, a manufacturer states that the JBL Wave Buds 2 offer up to 40 hours with ANC switched off, including the charging case. In everyday use, the available time may be lower.
Also consider the lifespan of the built-in battery. This is not an issue with wired earbuds: they work without charging, as long as the cable and connector remain intact.
In addition to Bluetooth, check the supported devices, operating systems and connections. For gaming, a wired connection can be a straightforward choice because you do not need to charge it. A 3.5mm headset often works with PCs, laptops, PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch, but features such as virtual surround sound may require software or a USB adapter.
Headphones with a microphone are suitable for calls and online gaming, but quality depends on the microphone position, surrounding noise and connection used. A foldable or detachable microphone is also useful if you want to use the headset for music as well.
Frequency range, impedance and driver size are measurable technical details, but they do not fully predict how music will sound. A 50mm driver, for example, is no guarantee of a particular sound signature. Focus on the combination of fit, driver type, equaliser and intended use.
With wireless earbuds, look out for:
Why it suits this profile: A straightforward choice for music, video and calls without Bluetooth or charging, provided your device has a 3.5mm connection.
The 3.5mm mini-jack makes operation straightforward. There is no battery to lose capacity over time.
Wired connection, in-ear fit and built-in microphone according to the product specification.
Why it suits this profile: For anyone looking for compact wireless earbuds with ANC, customisable audio and features within the Samsung ecosystem.
The stated playback time is listed separately for ANC on and off: 6 or 7 hours per earbud, with up to 26 or 30 hours including the case.
Two-way speakers, USB-C and wireless charging, IP57 rating and six built-in microphones according to Samsung.
Why it suits this profile: For gamers who want to use a lightweight, wired headset with a microphone on PC and multiple consoles.
The fixed 3.5mm cable does not require charging, and the product specification explicitly states stereo sound, not virtual surround sound.
50mm drivers, over-ear ear cushions, a 2-metre cable and a foldable microphone.
Why it suits this profile: An over-ear model for long working days, travelling and listening without daily charging.
The stated battery life is broken down by setting: up to 80 hours without ANC and 55 hours with ANC. This allows you to factor the setting into your comparison.
Bluetooth 6.0 according to the product information, hybrid ANC with a stated value of up to -45 dB and five microphones for calls.
We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Wireless earbuds offer freedom of movement and are practical for travelling, exercise and calls. However, you need to charge them and check that Bluetooth works properly with your device. Wired earbuds are ready to use straight away and have no battery, but the cable can get in the way and an adapter may be required.
It depends on the construction, hinges, cable, ear cushions and battery. With wireless headphones, the battery is an important component subject to wear. Store the model in a dry place, charge it according to the instructions and avoid prolonged exposure to heat. Wired headphones can remain usable for longer if the connector and cable are handled carefully.
Not always. According to the manufacturer, ANC may be designed to reduce surrounding noise, but its effect varies depending on the situation and fit. For a quiet workplace, a closed-back over-ear model without ANC may be sufficient. For train journeys or aeroplanes, ANC may be more practical. Also check whether a transparency mode is available when you want to continue hearing surrounding sounds.
