Joybuy Insights

Buying headphones: how to choose a model that suits the way you use them

Buying headphones seems simple until you have to choose between Bluetooth, noise-cancelling headphones, a gaming headset or wireless earbuds. Marketing terms such as “AI microphone”, “7.1 surround sound” and “80-hour battery life” sound appealing, but they don’t always tell you enough about how a product performs day to day. For example, a model that’s comfortable on the train may not be suitable for a long gaming session.

Look out for three common pitfalls:

  • A high battery-life claim with no clear indication of the conditions. Manufacturers often measure playback time using specific settings, such as noise cancelling switched off or a particular volume level.
  • Confusion between virtual and true surround sound. A gaming headset with virtual 7.1 audio uses software to simulate spatial sound. The results can vary depending on the game, device and settings.
  • The wrong connection or limited compatibility. A Bluetooth headset won’t automatically work with every TV, console or PC. If you’re buying a wired headset, check that your controller or computer has a suitable 3,5mm socket.

What should you look for when buying headphones?

1. Choose the right type first

On-ear headphones rest on your ears and are often compact and lightweight. According to the product specifications, the Sony WH-CH520 weighs 147 grams, making it a practical choice for commuting, working from home and everyday listening. Bear in mind that on-ear ear pads generally block out less sound than over-ear models.

Over-ear headphones fully cover your ears. They can offer greater comfort and help you enjoy some peace and quiet during long listening sessions, but they usually take up more space. Wireless headphones are handy when you’re out and about, while a wired headset doesn’t need a battery and often works as soon as you plug it in.

For exercise or short trips, wireless earbuds may be more practical. If so, check the protection rating. IPX4, for example, is designed to protect against splashes and sweat, not submersion. The Sony WF-C710N is described as water-resistant to IPX4 in the product information.

2. Check the connection and platform compatibility

Bluetooth 5.x tells you about the wireless connection, but doesn’t automatically guarantee better sound quality. Check which codecs are supported too, such as AAC, SBC or LDAC, and make sure they work with the devices you want to connect.

A multipoint model can connect to two devices at the same time. According to the product information, the Sony WH-CH520 supports multipoint, so you can switch between, for example, a laptop and a phone. However, check that your devices support this feature properly.

For gaming, compatibility matters more than simply having “gaming headset” in the name. The Razer BlackShark V2 X has a 3,5mm connection and is listed as compatible with PC, Mac, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch and mobile devices. If you’re looking for a PS5 headset or Xbox headset, check that the microphone works through your controller and whether you’ll need a splitter for a PC with separate audio and microphone sockets.

3. Look beyond “noise cancelling”

Noise-cancelling headphones use active noise cancellation to reduce background noise. How well they work depends on the type of sound, the fit and the settings. According to Baseus’s own product information, the EH10 NC can reduce background noise by up to 45 dB. This is a manufacturer’s claim under certain conditions, not a guarantee that all sound will disappear completely.

Also check the battery life with noise cancelling switched on. The Baseus EH10 NC is listed as offering up to 80 hours without ANC and 55 hours with ANC. Fast charging is useful too, but always check how long it takes to charge and how much playback time you get in return.

Recommended choices for different types of users

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Bluetooth Headphones - Black

Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Bluetooth Headphones - Black

Why it suits this profile: Lightweight on-ear headphones for music, calls and work without a cable. The black finish is easy to match with everyday use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The connection and features are straightforward: Bluetooth, a microphone and multipoint. Do check the battery-life information, as the product details mention both up to 50 and 40 hours.

Main benefit & highlights

147 grams, USB-C, AAC/SBC codecs and multipoint, according to the product specifications.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Baseus EH10 NC Bluetooth Headphones Black

Baseus EH10 NC Bluetooth Headphones Black

Why it suits this profile: A good choice for travelling, office work and long listening sessions when active noise cancellation and long battery life matter.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information distinguishes between battery life with ANC on and off. This makes it easier to compare the claim with how you’ll actually use the headphones.

Main benefit & highlights

Over-ear design, multipoint, LDAC according to the product description, and up to 55 hours with ANC switched on according to the listed specifications.

Suitable for: Specific needs & intensive use
Razer BlackShark V2 X gaming headset

Razer BlackShark V2 X 7.1 Wired Gaming Headset

Why it suits this profile: A wired gaming headset for PC, PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch players who need a microphone and a direct connection.

How this product avoids the pitfall

There’s no battery to run out during a gaming session. The headset uses a 3,5mm cable; according to the description, virtual 7.1 features require software and an activation code.

Main benefit & highlights

50mm drivers, cardioid microphone, 240 grams and compatibility with multiple platforms.

Suitable for: Console gamers with a fixed setup
Sony INZONE H3 Wired Gaming Headset

Sony INZONE H3 Wired Gaming Headset for PC and PS5

Why it suits this profile: Designed for PC and PlayStation users looking for a fixed USB audio connection, a microphone and adjustable spatial audio.

How this product avoids the pitfall

As it’s wired, there’s no battery to manage. Do check the connection: according to the product information, the listed spatial audio features work via USB and INZONE Hub on PC.

Main benefit & highlights

40mm drivers, a foldable microphone, and 3,5mm and USB audio connections according to the product information.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about buying headphones

Are wireless headphones suitable for gaming?

It depends on the connection and platform. Bluetooth can cause noticeable lag in some games. For competitive gaming, a wired gaming headset connected via 3,5mm or USB is often the simpler option. If you’re buying a PS5 headset or Xbox headset, always check that it’s compatible with your controller.

How long do headphones last?

Their lifespan depends on how you use and store them, the strain placed on the cable and the battery. A wired model has no battery that loses capacity, but the cable and plug are still vulnerable. With wireless models, it’s important to charge them correctly. Store any headphones in a dry place, avoid high temperatures and clean the ear pads with a soft, dry cloth.

How much do good Bluetooth headphones cost?

The price is mainly determined by features such as multipoint, noise cancelling, codec support, microphone quality and battery life. So don’t just compare the number of features; think about how you’ll use them too. A simple on-ear model may be enough for calls and music, while over-ear headphones with ANC make more sense for travelling or working in a busy environment.