Joybuy Insights

How to choose headphones: find the right model for music, calls and gaming

Buying headphones seems simple enough – until you have to choose between wireless headphones, noise-cancelling headphones, a gaming headset or wireless earbuds. Marketing copy often focuses on impressive features, while important practical details are less visible.

The following pitfalls regularly cost consumers money:

  • A long battery life without context: the stated playtime often applies without active noise cancellation, at a specific volume and under ideal conditions.
  • Noise cancellation that doesn’t work the same everywhere: active noise cancellation can reduce constant sounds, such as train or fan noise. Voices and sudden noises often remain partially audible.
  • A microphone that only performs well in quiet rooms: the number of microphones doesn’t automatically tell you how clear your voice will sound during an online meeting or phone call.
  • A connection that doesn’t match your device: check whether you need a 3.5mm connection, USB adapter, USB-C port, Bluetooth or a 2.4GHz dongle.

The key features to check

1. Wireless, wired or both

A Bluetooth headset is handy for smartphones, tablets and laptops without a cable. Do check the Bluetooth version, supported profiles and whether you can connect multiple devices at once. For gaming, Bluetooth can introduce more latency than a 2.4GHz connection.

A wired headset doesn’t need a battery and works straight away with a suitable connection. That’s practical for students, home workers and users who don’t want to manage charging. Some devices may require an adapter, though.

A combination of both options offers more flexibility. The Soundcore Space One Pro and Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless can, according to their product descriptions, be used wirelessly and also support a wired connection. Before you buy, check which cables and adapters are actually included.

2. Battery life and charging time

Don’t just look at the highest number of hours. Also check:

  • the playtime with ANC on and off;
  • the time needed for a full charge;
  • the fast-charge feature;
  • whether you can still listen to music while charging;
  • the lifespan of the built-in battery.

The Baseus EH10 NC, for example, states up to 80 hours without active noise cancellation and 55 hours with ANC. According to the product description, 10 minutes of charging gives you up to 10 hours of playback. These are manufacturer-stated values; actual duration may vary depending on volume, connection and settings.

3. Fit, microphone and everyday comfort

An over-ear headphone encloses the ear and can be comfortable during long train journeys, work sessions or gaming marathons. An on-ear headphone rests on the ear and is usually more compact, but can feel more pressing for some users.

In-ear earphones and wireless earbuds are lightweight and easy to carry. Getting the right fit is important for comfort and sound isolation. Check whether multiple sizes of ear tips are included.

For calls and online meetings, look at:

  • whether there’s a built-in or detachable microphone;
  • the microphone frequency and sensitivity;
  • a mute function;
  • compatibility with your laptop, smartphone and meeting software;
  • the position of the microphone relative to your mouth.

A technical figure like “six microphones” doesn’t on its own prove that conversations will always sound clear. According to its own product information, the MINISO MS106 uses six microphones for noise reduction during calls. Treat this as a product specification, not a guarantee for every environment.

Our recommendations by use case

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
JBL Tune 210 In-ear Earbuds Wired

JBL Tune 210 In-ear Earbuds Wired

Why this fits the profile: These wired earbuds are designed for everyday listening via a 3.5mm connection, with no charging or Bluetooth pairing required.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The plug-and-play connection prevents charging and pairing issues. Do check your device’s connection beforehand; the product information mentions a 3.5mm connection.

Key benefit & highlights

Built-in microphone, volume control and no battery needed. According to its own product information, the model has 8.7mm dynamic drivers.

Suitable for: Buyers seeking top quality
Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless

Sennheiser MOMENTUM 4 Wireless

Why this fits the profile: This over-ear headphone is aimed at music lovers and travellers who want wireless operation, long battery life and active noise cancellation.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description separately lists battery life, fast charging, ANC and transparency mode. This makes it easier to compare the features against your own usage.

Key benefit & highlights

According to the manufacturer, up to 60 hours of playback, four microphones and a wired 3.5mm option. The model is not water-resistant according to the safety information.

Suitable for: Specific use & intensive users
HyperX Cloud III S Gaming Headset

HyperX Cloud III S Gaming Headset

Why this fits the profile: This gaming headset model is aimed at gamers who want to switch between 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth and multiple compatible platforms.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated battery life is broken down by 2.4GHz and Bluetooth. Also check whether your platform and the included USB dongle are compatible with your setup.

Key benefit & highlights

53mm drivers, a detachable microphone and, according to the product information, up to 120 hours via 2.4GHz and up to 200 hours via Bluetooth.

Looking for more options?

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

How to compare models without the marketing noise

Before you buy, make a short list of your priorities:

  1. Use: music, calls, online meetings, travel, sport or gaming.
  2. Form: over-ear, on-ear, in-ear or wireless earbuds.
  3. Connection: Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, USB-C or wired.
  4. Microphone: built-in, on the cable, boom microphone or detachable.
  5. Environment: quiet workspace, public transport, office or outdoors.
  6. Maintenance: check whether ear cushions, cables or ear tips are replaceable.

A Jabra EVOLVE 30 II MS Stereo, for example, could make sense for a fixed workstation. The model is wired, has binaural stereo and comes with a LINK MS controller for USB connection. According to the product data, the cable is 0.95 metres long. That makes the connection method more important than wireless freedom.

For sport or daily commuting, models with a stated water resistance rating are worth considering. The MINISO MS106 mentions an IPX5 classification. Don’t take that as permission to submerge the earbuds: IPX5 doesn’t automatically mean protection against every form of water.

Frequently asked questions about headphones

Are wireless headphones more expensive to use?

Not directly, but you do need to factor in charging and battery lifespan. A wired headphone doesn’t need a battery. With wireless models, a USB-C cable, charging adapter and possibly replacement after wear and tear can be relevant. Use a suitable charger and don’t charge in a damp environment.

How long do headphones last?

That depends on the hinges, cables, ear cushions, battery and daily use. Store the model in a dry place, clean the ear cushions with a soft dry cloth and avoid pulling on the cable. With a wireless headphone, the battery is often a key component that wears out.

Is noise cancellation suitable for calls and work?

A noise-cancelling headphone can reduce ambient noise, but how well it works varies by model and situation. According to brands’ own product information, microphones and algorithms are used to make conversations clearer. So also check user settings, microphone placement and compatibility with your laptop or phone. Keep the volume moderate and take regular breaks during prolonged use.