Joybuy Insights

Choosing headphones without regret: a practical buying guide for music, calls and gaming

A pair of headphones may seem straightforward to choose, until you have to compare a gaming headset, wireless headphones, Bluetooth headphones and noise-cancelling headphones. Marketing often focuses on large drivers, surround sound or an extremely long battery life. In practice, however, it is the connection, fit and microphone that determine whether you enjoy using the product every day.

Three common pitfalls are:

  • An impressive label without practical explanation: 7.1 surround sound is usually virtual and can sound different depending on the game, software and platform.
  • Incorrect expectations about noise reduction: passive noise isolation is different from active noise cancellation, also known as ANC.
  • Compatibility that has not been fully checked: a headset with a 3.5mm connection often works with a wide range of devices, but features such as software-based surround sound or wireless chat may depend on the platform.

Which specifications should you check?

1. Connection and compatibility

For a PS5 headset, Xbox headset or Nintendo Switch headset, the connection is more important than a striking product name. A wired headset with a 3.5mm jack can be connected directly to a controller or device. Do check whether your PC has one combined connection or separate ports for audio and the microphone.

A wireless gaming headset usually uses Bluetooth or a 2.4GHz USB receiver. Bluetooth is convenient for music, mobile use and calls. A 2.4GHz connection is particularly practical on a PC or console when low latency is important. Always check that the included receiver works with your platform.

2. Microphone and communication

If you play online or attend lots of meetings, a good headset with microphone is more useful than a wide frequency range alone. Look out for:

  • Is the microphone flexible, foldable or detachable?
  • Does the headset have a physical mute button?
  • Is the volume control on the earcup or on the cable?
  • Is compatibility with your console or computer stated explicitly?

A foldable microphone can be muted quickly. A detachable microphone makes a gaming headset more suitable for music and everyday use. Brand descriptions of noise reduction during calls do not guarantee the same experience in every room; treat this information as a product specification rather than a guaranteed result.

3. Comfort, weight and battery life

An over-ear pair of headphones surrounds the ear and can be comfortable during longer sessions. Check the size of the ear cushions, the weight and how adjustable the headband is. Faux-leather cushions can provide a good seal, while fabric cushions may feel less warm for some users.

With a wireless model, the stated playback time depends on the settings and how you use it. The Trust GXT 491 Fayzo, for example, is listed as offering up to 22 hours of battery life. According to the product information, the Baseus EH10 offers up to 80 hours without ANC and 55 hours with ANC. These figures come from the manufacturer’s product specifications and may vary in real-world use.

ANC, surround sound and Bluetooth explained

An ANC pair of headphones uses built-in microphones and electronics to actively reduce surrounding noise. This can be useful on the train, in the office or during a flight. ANC does not make every environment silent and is not a substitute for a safe solution in noisy conditions. Stay alert in traffic and keep the volume at a moderate level.

A 7.1 surround sound headset simulates multiple audio channels through software. This can support directional information in games, but the experience depends on the game, software and settings. The Logitech G432 lists DTS Headphone:X and 7.1 audio via the USB DAC. The Razer BlackShark V2 X is listed with 7.1 surround sound software, which requires installation and activation.

Bluetooth headphones are convenient for smartphones, tablets and laptops. For gaming, you should also consider latency, microphone use and whether the headphones can be connected to multiple devices at the same time.

Recommended headphones for different usage profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Trust GXT 415 Zirox gaming headset

Trust GXT 415 Zirox - Gaming Headset - Wired

Why it suits this profile: The wired connection does not require charging and is suitable for PC, laptop, PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch according to the product information.

How this product avoids the pitfall

No reliance on a battery or wireless software. The specifications list stereo audio rather than 7.1 surround sound.

Key benefit & highlights

244 grams, 50mm drivers, a 2-metre cable and a foldable microphone with volume control.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking top quality
Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless headphones

Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless

Why it suits this profile: This wireless over-ear pair of headphones is designed for music, travel, working from home and calls, with Bluetooth, a cable option and an app for sound settings.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information distinguishes between active noise cancellation, transparency mode and wired use.

Key benefit & highlights

According to the product specifications, up to 60 hours of playback, 42mm transducers, four microphones and Bluetooth.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Sony PS5 Pulse Explore earbuds

Sony PS5 Pulse Explore - Earbuds

Why it suits this profile: These wireless gaming earbuds are designed for PS5, PlayStation Portal and PC users who value a compact design and PlayStation Link.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The connection and compatibility are clearly defined: PlayStation Link for compatible devices and Bluetooth for mobile devices.

Key benefit & highlights

Planar magnetic drivers, two microphones and up to 5 hours per charge; according to the product information, the case provides additional charging capacity.

Looking for more options?

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.

Frequently asked questions about headphones

Which headphones are suitable for PS5?

That depends on the connection you want. A wired headset with a 3.5mm jack can usually be used via the PS5 controller. For wireless models, check whether the headset supports a compatible USB receiver or PlayStation Link. A PS5 headset with a microphone is practical for online chat, but also check whether the volume control and mute function work with the platform.

Are wireless headphones suitable for gaming?

Yes, but pay attention to the type of connection. Bluetooth is versatile for music and calls, while a 2.4GHz receiver or PlayStation Link may offer lower latency in some situations. Also check the battery life, charging time and microphone performance. If you do not want to manage a battery, you can choose a wired gaming headset.

How long do headphones last?

Their lifespan depends on use, storage and maintenance. Keep headphones dry, do not pull on the cable and charge a wireless model with a suitable cable. Ear cushions and cables are often the parts that wear out most. Keep the volume at a moderate level and take regular breaks when listening for long periods.