Headphones can look impressive on paper yet still disappoint in everyday use. A long list of features means little if the ear cushions are uncomfortable, the connection regularly drops out or the microphone does not work properly during a call. This is particularly worth bearing in mind with wireless headphones, ANC headphones and gaming headsets, where the same pitfalls tend to crop up.
Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer selects products based on verifiable specifications and a clear match with their intended use. Below, you’ll find what to look out for before buying Bluetooth headphones, over-ear headphones or headphones with a microphone.
Manufacturers often quote battery life under specific conditions, such as with noise cancelling switched off and at a particular volume level. With ANC, phone calls or high volume levels, actual playback time may be lower.
It is therefore worth checking multiple figures. For example, the Sony WH-CH720N is described as offering up to 50 hours without noise cancelling and 35 hours with noise cancelling. The technical specifications also state a battery life of 40 hours. Differences like these make it sensible to check the latest product specifications and usage settings before buying.
Active noise cancellation, or ANC, uses microphones and electronics to reduce background noise. This works particularly well with constant sounds, such as train engines or fans. Voices, sudden noises and traffic may still be audible.
Passive isolation works differently: the ear cushions physically block out some of the surrounding noise. A gaming headset with closed-back ear cups can therefore be useful even without ANC. Claims such as “up to -45 dB” or “up to -44 dB” come from the brand’s product description and do not guarantee the same experience in every environment.
Headphones may technically work with several devices, but not every function is available on every platform. A wired gaming headset with a 3.5mm connection is usually easy to connect to a controller, laptop or smartphone. However, a splitter may be required for a PC with separate microphone and headphone ports.
Also check whether Bluetooth, multipoint, microphone functions and surround software are available on your device. With consoles, functionality may also depend on the controller or connection being used.
Over-ear headphones fully surround the ear and are often suitable for longer listening sessions. Check:
A lighter model is not automatically more comfortable. The clamping force and fit also determine whether you feel pressure around your ears after wearing them for a longer period.
Bluetooth 5.x mainly indicates the connection standard being used; it does not automatically tell you anything about sound quality. Also look at the supported codecs, such as SBC, AAC or LDAC, and check for multipoint if you want to use your phone and laptop at the same time.
Wired headphones do not need a battery, which can make them useful for gaming or long working days. With a wireless model, USB-C is now a practical choice for charging. If the headphones have lighting or RGB features, check whether the USB connection supplies power only. According to the product information, the USB connection on the ONIKUMA K8 is intended solely for the LED lighting.
For calls and online gaming, the microphone’s positioning and controls are more important than simply having one. A flip-to-mute microphone, as found on various Turtle Beach models, can be practical. A detachable microphone is useful if you also want to use the headset for music.
Pay attention to where the volume control and mute button are located. Physical buttons or a volume wheel are often more intuitive to use than touch controls, particularly while gaming or travelling.
Why it suits this profile: Compact on-ear wireless headphones for music, calls and everyday use. The product information lists multipoint connectivity and a weight of 147 grams.
The physical controls and Bluetooth connection keep the basic functions straightforward. However, check the latest battery-life figures, as the specifications provided list different values.
147 g, multipoint connectivity, built-in microphone and USB-C charging according to the product details.
Why it suits this profile: Ideal for anyone who wants to combine wireless listening, wired use and adjustable ANC in a single over-ear model.
The product information clearly distinguishes between battery life with ANC switched off and on: up to 100 and 48 hours respectively. The ANC modes can be adjusted.
40mm dynamic drivers, Bluetooth 5.4, LDAC support, multipoint and replaceable ear cushions according to the specifications.
Why it suits this profile: A wired gaming headset for PC, Mac, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch and mobile devices with a 3.5mm connection.
The fixed 3.5mm connection removes any reliance on a charged battery. For PC use, check whether the supplied splitter is required.
50mm drivers, cardioid microphone, 240 grams and software for 7.1 surround sound according to the product description.
Why it suits this profile: Over-ear Bluetooth headphones with active noise cancellation, multipoint and a relatively low stated weight of 192 grams.
Battery life is listed separately with ANC switched on and off. According to Sony, the level of noise cancellation can be adjusted in 20 steps via the Sony app.
Bluetooth 5.2, multipoint, USB-C and active noise cancellation according to the product specifications provided.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
These terms are usually used interchangeably in product descriptions. Bluetooth headphones connect wirelessly to a phone, laptop, tablet or another compatible device. However, check the Bluetooth version, codecs and multipoint support. “Wireless” does not automatically mean that all devices or functions are compatible.
Lifespan depends on the hinges, ear cushions, cables, battery use and maintenance. With a wireless model, the built-in battery is an important component subject to wear. Wired headphones remain usable without a battery, but the cable and connector can become damaged. Keep the model dry, do not pull on the cable and clean the ear cushions with a soft, dry cloth.
They can be, particularly if you want to reduce constant background noise. As well as ANC, consider comfort, battery life, transparency mode and microphone quality. When you are in traffic or cycling, do not use a setting that completely blocks out surrounding noise; you need to remain aware of important sounds around you.