Joybuy Insights

Choosing wireless headphones: how to avoid a bad buy

Wireless headphones are handy for music, podcasts, calls, gaming and travel. But a long list of features doesn’t automatically mean a model is right for you. For example, Bluetooth headphones may have long battery life but feel uncomfortable to wear. Wireless earbuds may appear water-resistant, even though only the earbuds – not the charging case – are protected.

Joybuy’s Product Recommendation Officer highlights the product details that matter most in everyday use. That way, you can see which features really make a difference.

Three common pitfalls when choosing wireless audio

1. Battery claims without clear context

“Up to 30, 50 or 70 hours” often refers to the total including the charging case, or to use at a particular volume level. So always check:

  • listening time per earbud or per full charge;
  • the extra capacity provided by the charging case;
  • charging time and whether fast charging is available;
  • whether the battery life applies with features such as ANC switched on.

Long battery life is especially useful if you travel often or don’t want to charge your headphones every day. For on-ear headphones, listening time is usually listed for the headphones themselves. With Bluetooth earbuds, make sure you distinguish between listening time on a single charge and total listening time.

2. Misunderstanding an IP rating

Water-resistant earbuds aren’t automatically suitable for swimming. IPX4, for example, indicates protection against splashes, while IPX5 indicates protection against water jets. IPX7 covers temporary immersion under certain conditions, but always check the product specifications and instructions.

Check the case, too. For several in-ear models, the IP rating applies only to the earbuds. A wet charging case could still cause problems.

3. Mistaking noise cancelling for complete silence

Noise-cancelling headphones use active noise cancellation to reduce background noise. How well it works can vary depending on the situation and fit. Low, steady sounds such as train or aeroplane noise are generally different from voices or sudden sounds.

Open-ear headphones work differently. They’re designed to let you hear more of your surroundings, which can be useful when walking or cycling. The trade-off is that music may sound less isolated in busy places.

Important specifications to check

Fit and comfort

Start by choosing between the main styles:

  • In-ear headphones: sit in or near the ear canal and are compact. Check which ear tip sizes are included and how they fit.
  • On-ear headphones: rest on your ears and are often foldable. The pressure from the ear cushions and headband affects comfort.
  • Open-ear earbuds: sit outside the ear canal, helping you stay more aware of your surroundings.
  • Wireless earbuds: easy to carry, but their small size often means shorter listening time per charge.

A good fit affects comfort, sound and passive noise isolation. A manufacturer’s claim of “all-day comfort” will still depend on your ears, head size and how long you wear them.

Bluetooth, multipoint and compatibility

Check that your smartphone, tablet, laptop or gaming device supports Bluetooth. A newer Bluetooth version may support features such as energy efficiency or multipoint, but it doesn’t tell you everything about sound quality.

Multipoint is useful if you want to connect to a laptop and phone at the same time, for example. Also check whether you need an app for equaliser settings, firmware updates or extra features. For example, the HTC NE33 states that the EarJoy app, an account and a Bluetooth connection are required for its translation features.

Microphone and calls

If you make calls often, don’t just look at the number of microphones. Their placement, voice processing and performance in noisy places matter more. Headphones with a microphone are suitable for calls, but the sound quality for the person you’re speaking to can vary from one device to another.

Also check for:

  • call answer and end controls;
  • a mute function;
  • compatibility with your calling or meeting app;
  • the option to test the microphone before an important call.

Recommended models for different users

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Redmi Buds 6 Play White

Redmi Buds 6 Play White

Why it suits this profile: A compact option for everyday listening, calls and podcasts, with no complicated setup.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specifications list 7.5 hours per charge and 36 hours with the case separately. The IPX4 rating applies only to the earbuds, making the limits of their water resistance clear.

Key benefit & highlights

Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C, a 10mm driver and dual microphones for calls.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds 2nd Gen Black

Bose Ultra Open Earbuds 2nd Gen - Black

Why it suits this profile: The open design is made for people who want to stay in touch with their surroundings while walking, cycling or commuting.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The open-ear design means you don’t have to rely solely on active noise cancellation. The product information lists IPX4, so this model is designed to withstand splashes, not immersion.

Key benefit & highlights

Up to 9 hours of listening time, Bluetooth 5.4, an integrated microphone and wireless charging for the case.

Suitable for: Specific needs & intensive users
Baseus Bass EP10 Pro in-ear true wireless earbuds

Baseus Bass EP10 Pro In-Ear True Wireless Earbuds

Why it suits this profile: Designed for people who want active noise cancellation, long battery life and clear calls on the go.

How this product avoids the pitfall

According to the product information, this model offers 11 hours of listening time per charge and around 55 hours with the case. Its stated IP55 rating is more informative than a vague claim such as “suitable for sport”.

Key benefit & highlights

50dB adaptive hybrid ANC according to the product information, six microphones, Bluetooth 5.4 and LDAC support.

Suitable for: Keen listeners and travellers
JBL TUNE 520BT2 wireless on-ear Bluetooth headphones

JBL TUNE 520BT2 Wireless on-ear Bluetooth headphones

Why it suits this profile: These foldable on-ear headphones are a good fit for commuting, long listening sessions and travel when charging may not be convenient.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The battery claim is specified as up to 76 hours of playback and up to 45 hours of talk time. The product information also states that the headphones are not water-resistant.

Key benefit & highlights

Bluetooth 6.0, multipoint, two microphones, USB-C and up to five extra hours of use after five minutes of charging.

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 wireless headphones

How do I connect Bluetooth headphones to my phone?

Switch on Bluetooth on your phone, open the settings and put your headphones or earbuds into pairing mode. Then select the product name from the list. Some models need an app for extra features. Once connected, check that the microphone and media controls work, too.

How long do wireless headphones last?

Battery capacity decreases over time. How long your headphones last in practice depends on how often you charge them, heat, volume and the quality of the built-in battery. Don’t store the device completely flat for long periods, and use a suitable USB-C charger. A model with replaceable parts or a supplied cable may remain usable for longer if the battery runs out.

Do I need noise cancelling for travel?

It depends on your surroundings. ANC can be useful on trains, planes or in the office, but it uses extra power and doesn’t always make background noise completely inaudible. If you want to hear traffic while cycling or walking, consider open-ear earbuds or a transparency mode instead. Keep the volume at a moderate level, too, and stay alert to traffic.