Joybuy Insights

Choosing headphones without falling for marketing traps: a practical buying guide

Headphones should suit the way you use them every day. A pair for train journeys needs different features from a gaming headset for online matches or compact headphones for working from home. Yet many models look much the same on paper. Claims about “studio-quality sound”, powerful noise cancellation or exceptionally long battery life don’t always tell the whole story.

So keep an eye out for these common pitfalls:

  • Battery life without context: the stated maximum playback time is often measured with noise cancellation off, at medium volume and in ideal conditions. With ANC on, battery life can be considerably shorter.
  • Noise cancellation as a universal solution: active noise cancellation works best against constant low-frequency sounds, such as train or aeroplane noise. Voices, keyboards and sudden sounds may not be completely filtered out.
  • The wrong fit: on-ear headphones rest on your ears and are often compact, while over-ear headphones enclose your ears. A lightweight pair may be comfortable on the go, but won’t necessarily provide the same seal or wearing experience as a larger model.

Which specifications matter?

1. Choose between on-ear, over-ear and wired

On-ear headphones such as the Sony WH-CH520 are lightweight and easy to carry around. The ear pads sit on your ears, so you can still hear your surroundings fairly well. That can be useful in the office or on a walk, but the seal is generally less effective.

Over-ear headphones enclose your ears. They can be more comfortable during long listening sessions and often offer better passive noise isolation. Be sure to check the weight, headband pressure and ear pad dimensions. Models in this category, for example, weigh around 192 to 380 grams.

Wired headphones or a gaming headset mean no worrying about charging and can help keep latency down. A 3.5mm connection also works with many laptops, controllers and tablets. Check in advance whether your device has a combined headset socket.

2. Look beyond the battery life figure

Headphones with long battery life are handy for commuting, travelling and working from home. Always compare:

  • battery life with ANC off and on;
  • fast-charging support;
  • USB-C or another charging port;
  • the option to keep listening via a wired connection;
  • multipoint connectivity, so you can connect to your phone and laptop at the same time, for example.

The CMF by Nothing Headphone Pro, for example, lists up to 100 hours without ANC and 48 hours with ANC. The Sony WH-CH720N is listed as offering up to 50 hours without noise cancellation and 35 hours with ANC. These are the stated product figures; actual battery life depends on volume, codec, settings and connection.

3. Check the microphone, connection and compatibility

If you make a lot of calls or attend online meetings, you need more than just good sound. Headphones with a microphone should pick up your voice clearly in a busy environment. Check the microphone placement, mute controls and any noise filtering. Brands may claim a certain level of voice enhancement, but these results shouldn’t be presented as guaranteed in every working environment.

Check the connection, too. Bluetooth 5.2 or 5.4 tells you which Bluetooth version is used, but doesn’t automatically indicate range, sound quality or compatibility with every device. For gaming, a wired 3.5mm or USB connection may be more practical. Also check whether features such as virtual surround sound only work on Windows or with specific software.

Recommended headphones for different situations

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

Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Bluetooth Headphones - Beige

Why it suits this profile: According to the specifications, these lightweight on-ear Bluetooth headphones weigh 147 grams and are suitable for music, podcasts and everyday use. Multipoint makes it easier to switch between your phone and laptop.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The product information gives specific details on battery life, USB-C, multipoint and weight, so you don’t have to rely on general sound claims alone. Please note: this model isn’t water-resistant and doesn’t have ANC.

Key benefits and features

147 grams; multipoint; microphone; USB-C; stated battery life of up to 50 hours.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones with Noise Cancelling Silver

Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones with Noise Cancelling - Silver

Why it suits this profile: These over-ear noise-cancelling headphones are designed for travelling, listening to music and working in noisy surroundings. The product details list multipoint, LDAC and up to 30 hours of battery life with noise cancellation on.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The stated figures distinguish between ANC being on and off. This makes it easier to get a realistic idea of battery life than relying on one general maximum figure.

Key benefits and features

Over-ear design; active noise cancellation; LDAC; multipoint; fast charging.

Suitable for: Specific needs and intensive use
Razer Blackshark V2 X 7.1 Wired Gaming Headset

Razer Blackshark V2 X 7.1 Wired Gaming Headset

Why it suits this profile: This wired gaming headset uses a 3.5mm connection and is designed for PC, PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch. It’s a good choice for gamers who don’t want to worry about charging a battery.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The fixed cable means you won’t run out of battery while gaming. Just check that your device supports the required connection or splitter.

Key benefits and features

50mm drivers; cardioid microphone; 240 grams; 3.5mm connection; support for multiple platforms.

Suitable for: Long journeys and working from home
CMF by Nothing Headphone Pro Dark Gray

CMF by Nothing Headphone Pro Dark Gray

Why it suits this profile: This over-ear model combines ANC modes, multipoint and long stated playback time. It’s designed for people who want one pair of wireless headphones for work, travel and music.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The specifications give separate figures for ANC on and off, as well as a transparency mode. This lets you choose the right setting for your surroundings.

Key benefits and features

40mm drivers; LDAC; four ANC modes; up to 100 hours without ANC according to the product information; replaceable ear pads.

Looking for more options?

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

Frequently asked questions about headphones

Are wireless headphones suitable for online meetings?

Yes, as long as the model has a built-in microphone and is compatible with your laptop or phone. Check whether multipoint is important to you if you often switch between devices. For a fixed desk setup, a USB or wired headset may also be more practical.

How long do headphones last on average?

Their lifespan depends on the hinges, ear pads, battery use and how well you look after them. Wired headphones remain usable without battery wear, while the battery in wireless headphones may hold less charge over time. Keep your headphones dry, charge them according to the instructions and don’t use damaged cables.

Is noise cancellation worth the extra cost?

It depends on your surroundings. ANC can be useful on trains and aeroplanes, or in busy offices. At home in a quiet room, it offers little benefit. Also compare battery life with ANC on, check for a transparency mode and see whether the headphones can be used with a wired connection. Keep the volume moderate and stay alert in traffic.