Joybuy Insights

Choosing wireless headphones: a practical buying guide for music, calls and travel

Wireless headphones can often seem like a straightforward choice on paper. However, big battery-life claims, vague terms such as ‘hi-fi’ and unclear compatibility can lead to a disappointing purchase. The right choice depends on how you plan to use them: do you travel by train every day, work in an office, exercise outdoors or want a gaming headset with low latency?

Common pitfalls when choosing wireless audio

1. Battery life without clear usage conditions

Battery life is usually given as ‘up to’ a certain number of hours. That figure may apply with active noise cancelling switched off, lighting disabled or the volume set to a moderate level. So check:

  • Does the stated battery life apply to the headphones alone or include the charging case?
  • Does battery life change when noise cancelling or RGB lighting is switched on?
  • Is fast charging available, and how much listening time does it actually provide?

Headphones with long battery life are especially useful if you’re often out and about. For everyday use, though, a shorter charging time may matter more than the highest theoretical number of hours.

2. Mistaking ‘noise cancelling’ for complete silence

Active noise cancelling, also known as ANC, uses microphones and electronic processing to reduce background noise. How well it works depends on the situation. Low, constant sounds such as train or aeroplane noise are generally easier to reduce than voices or sudden sounds.

It’s also worth knowing the difference between:

  • Active noise cancelling: electronic reduction of background noise.
  • Passive isolation: sound is partly blocked by the ear cushions or a close-fitting design.
  • Microphone noise reduction: designed to make your voice clearer during calls.

So noise-cancelling headphones aren’t automatically suitable for every situation. If you need to stay aware of traffic noise, consider an open-ear model or transparency mode.

3. The wrong fit or insufficient protection

Over-ear headphones can be comfortable for office work, but may feel warm during exercise. Wireless earbuds are smaller and lighter, but fit varies considerably from ear to ear. Look for an adjustable headband, check the weight and shape of the ear cushions, and see which ear tips are included.

Water resistance is indicated by an IP rating. IPX5 means protection against water jets under the stated test conditions, but not necessarily protection against immersion. The charging case may also have a different level of protection from the earbuds. Always check the full product information.

Key specifications to compare

Bluetooth, multipoint and connection modes

Bluetooth headphones work with phones, tablets and laptops that support Bluetooth audio. Bluetooth 5.0, 5.2, 5.3 or 5.4 mainly tells you which connection technology is used; on its own, it doesn’t guarantee better sound quality.

Multipoint is useful for office work. It lets you keep, for example, a smartphone and laptop connected, then switch between the two devices. Gamers should check which connection their console supports. A 2.4 GHz USB dongle may offer lower latency than Bluetooth, but it won’t necessarily work directly with every console.

Battery and charging options

Compare battery life under the same conditions. A model offering 50 hours without ANC isn’t directly comparable with one offering 40 hours with ANC. USB-C is now practical for everyday use, as the same cable is often used for other devices too.

For earbuds, count the listening time from the earbuds and the extra capacity of the charging case separately. Also check the charging time and features such as fast charging.

Microphone, codecs and sound

Headphones with a microphone are suitable for calls, online meetings and gaming, but the number of microphones doesn’t tell you everything about call quality. Wind, traffic and microphone placement also have an impact.

Specifications such as AAC, SBC, driver diameter and frequency range are useful for comparing products, but they can’t fully predict how music will sound. Fit, equaliser settings and personal preference all play a part. For a gaming headset, spatial audio, compatibility and latency are also important considerations.

Recommended models for different types of user

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

Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Bluetooth Headphones - Beige

Why it suits this type of user: The on-ear design, 147-gram weight and multipoint feature make these headphones a good fit for students and commuters who regularly switch between a phone and laptop.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information clearly lists Bluetooth, multipoint and a microphone. Do check the current battery-life details: the product description says up to 50 hours, while the specifications table states 40 hours.

Key benefits and features

147 grams, USB-C, AAC/SBC support, multipoint and a microphone for calls.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Dyson Zone OE Headphones

Dyson Zone OE Headphones with Active Noise Cancelling Ultra Blue/Prussian Blue

Why it suits this type of user: This over-ear model is designed for users who value active noise cancelling, app settings and long listening time.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page lists ANC, Bluetooth 5.0 and a detachable cable. At 670 grams, these headphones are relatively heavy, so bear comfort in mind when making your choice.

Key benefits and features

According to the product information, up to 50 hours of audio with ANC, 40 mm drivers, eight ANC microphones and control via the MyDyson app.

Suitable for: Specialist use and intensive users
ONIKUMA GT806 Wireless Gaming Headset

ONIKUMA GT806 White Wireless Gaming Headset

Why it suits this type of user: The combination of 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth and a wired connection is aimed at gamers who switch between a PC, console and mobile devices.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information explicitly states that Bluetooth doesn’t work directly with PS4 or PS5. You’ll need to use 2.4 GHz mode instead, so check the connection before buying.

Key benefits and features

Three connection options, a detachable microphone, a USB dongle and, according to the product page, up to 40 hours of gaming without lighting.

Suitable for: Exercise and everyday commuting
MINISO MS106 Wireless Bluetooth Earphones

MINISO MS106 Wireless Bluetooth 6.0 Earphones

Why it suits this type of user: Compact wireless earbuds with a microphone and an IPX5 rating are a good fit for commuting, light exercise and everyday calls.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states that the earbuds are water- and sweat-resistant, but the charging case isn’t waterproof. Let the earbuds dry before putting them back in the case.

Key benefits and features

According to the product page, up to 55 hours of total battery life, USB-C fast charging, touch controls and six microphones for calls.

Looking for more options?

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

Frequently asked questions about wireless headphones

How do you connect wireless headphones to your phone?

Switch on Bluetooth on your phone, put the headphones into pairing mode and select the right model from the Bluetooth list. For multipoint, pair one device first, then follow the instructions to pair the second. If the connection doesn’t work, remove the old pairing and try again.

How long do wireless headphones last?

Battery life depends on battery capacity, charging habits, volume and features such as ANC. Lithium batteries lose capacity over time. A model with USB-C and fast charging remains practical, even as its maximum battery life decreases with age.

Are wireless earbuds suitable for exercise?

They can be, as long as they fit securely and their water resistance is suitable for your activity. An IPX5 or similar rating doesn’t mean the earbuds are suitable for swimming. Also check that the charging case stays dry, and bear background noise in mind when exercising outdoors.