Buying wireless headphones: how to choose a model that suits the way you use it

A wireless headset may seem easy to choose: select a colour, check the battery life and click order. In practice, comfort, where you use them and having the right connections are what determine whether you enjoy using them every day. A Bluetooth headset for train journeys has different requirements from sports earbuds or a headset with a microphone for working from home.

So don’t focus solely on prominent marketing claims. According to the manufacturer’s or seller’s product information, features may vary between models. Always check the latest specifications, included accessories, warranty terms and suitability for your intended use.

Three common pitfalls when choosing wireless headphones

1. Long battery life without the right context

The stated battery life is usually a maximum figure measured under specific conditions. With noise-cancelling headphones, usage time may be lower when active noise cancellation is switched on. Volume, codec, phone calls and temperature also affect battery life.

It is therefore worth looking at several figures:

• battery life with and without noise cancellation;
• playback time of the earbuds themselves;
• additional charges provided by the charging case;
• fast-charging function and connection, preferably USB-C;
• time required for a full charge.

2. Water resistance is interpreted too broadly

An IPX4 rating does not mean that a product is waterproof. For the Sony WF-C710N, IPX4 means protection against splashing water; the charging case must remain dry. A model with IP55, such as the soundcore AeroFit 2, offers a different level of protection, but even with this rating, prolonged immersion is not automatically permitted.

With sports earbuds, therefore, check:

• the exact IP rating;
• whether the rating also applies to the case;
• whether sweat, rain and cleaning are mentioned in the manual;
• whether the model needs to dry thoroughly after use.

3. A familiar feature does not always suit your ears or surroundings

In-ear headphones partially seal the ear canal, which can make them compact and secure. However, not everyone finds this comfortable. On-ear headphones rest on the ear and are often lightweight, but may cause pressure after extended use. Open-ear headphones let in ambient sound, but generally provide a different listening experience from a closed-back model.

Fit is therefore at least as important as the brand name. A Sony headset, JBL model or Soundcore earbud may technically meet your requirements, but still be unsuitable if the shape does not feel comfortable.

Which specifications should you compare?

Design and comfort

Choose a style that suits your daily routine:

• Over-ear: covers the entire ear and is suitable for travelling, films and extended listening. Consider the weight and how warm they may feel around your ears.
• On-ear: compact and lightweight. According to the product specifications, the Sony WH-CH520 weighs 147 grams and has an adjustable headband and soft ear cushions.
• In-ear earbuds: small and easy to carry. Check which ear tip sizes are included and whether the fit remains secure.
• Open-ear headphones: leave your ears uncovered, which can be useful when walking or working in an environment where you need to remain approachable.

Comfortable headphones should not only feel pleasant during the first few minutes. Also consider the pressure from the headband, the cushion material and the weight.

Connection and multipoint Bluetooth

Bluetooth 5.2, 5.3 or 5.4 mainly indicates the Bluetooth generation used; it does not automatically guarantee a flawless connection with every device. Check that your phone, laptop and tablet are compatible.

Multipoint Bluetooth is useful when switching between, for example, a laptop and a smartphone. The Sony WH-CH520, Sony WH-CH730 and Sony WF-C710N specify simultaneous connection to two devices. Do check the manual to see how automatic switching works and which functions remain available when multipoint is active.

A headset with a microphone is suitable for calls and online meetings, but call quality also depends on wind, background noise and the position of the microphones.

Noise cancellation and ambient sound

Active noise cancellation uses microphones and electronics to reduce ambient noise. According to the product information, the Sony WH-CH730 features Dual Noise Sensor technology and an Ambient Sound mode. The Sony WF-C710N and Soundcore Liberty 4 NC are also offered with active noise cancellation.

Be aware of the difference between:

• passive isolation: created by ear cushions or earbuds;
• active noise cancellation: electronic reduction of ambient noise;
• ambient or transparency mode: deliberately lets more outside sound through.

Do not use noise cancellation in situations where you need to hear traffic, bicycle bells or other warning signals clearly.

Our recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Bluetooth Headphones - Blue

Why it suits this profile: Lightweight on-ear Bluetooth headphones for music, podcasts, working from home and everyday travel.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The key features are clearly specified: adjustable headband, soft ear cushions, microphone and multipoint. According to the product information, this model is not water-resistant.

Key benefit & advantages

Bluetooth 5.2, USB-C, multipoint and a stated battery life of up to 50 hours.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality

WH-CH730 Wireless Headphones - Black

Why it suits this profile: Designed for travellers and listeners looking for active noise cancellation, a foldable design and customisable sound.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description lists noise cancellation and Ambient Sound separately. This allows you to choose the listening mode that best suits travelling or an environment where you want to hear ambient sound.

Key benefit & advantages

Foldable design, ten-band equaliser via the Sony app, multipoint and, according to the product information, up to 75 hours of battery life with noise cancellation switched off.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users

soundcore AeroFit 2 Wireless Open-Ear Headphones

Why it suits this profile: An open-ear model for walking, sport, calls and everyday use when you want to remain aware of your surroundings.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The open-ear construction prevents you from being completely cut off from ambient sound. The IP55 rating is clearly stated, but exposure to water should still be limited according to the manual.

Key benefit & advantages

Bluetooth 5.4, two microphones, button controls, a stated weight of 85 grams and a charging station.

Suitable for: Travellers and fans of long listening sessions

Marshall Major V Wireless On-Ear Bluetooth Headphones - Cream

Why it suits this profile: Foldable on-ear headphones for long journeys and users who also want to retain a wired option.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Alongside Bluetooth, the product information lists an included 3.5mm cable. This means you can keep listening when the battery is empty, provided your device has a suitable connection.

Key benefit & advantages

According to the product information, more than 100 hours of playback, multipoint Bluetooth, Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C and wireless charging.

Frequently asked questions about wireless headphones

How do I connect Bluetooth headphones to my phone?

First, charge the headphones and activate Bluetooth on your smartphone. Put the model into pairing mode and select the product name from the Bluetooth list. With multipoint, pair a second device afterwards according to the instructions. If the connection does not work, remove the old pairing and try again.

How long do wireless headphones last?

Their lifespan depends on charging habits, hinges, ear cushions, moisture and daily use. Battery capacity decreases over time. Store the product in a dry place, avoid extreme heat and use a suitable USB-C charger. Replaceable ear cushions can extend the usable life of an over-ear or on-ear model.

Are wireless headphones more expensive to run than a wired model?

A wireless model uses power and needs charging, but the energy consumption per charge is limited. The costs mainly consist of the purchase price and potentially replacing the battery when it cannot be replaced separately. Wired headphones, such as a 3.5mm in-ear model, do not incur charging costs but do require a device with a suitable connection.