Joybuy Insights

Choosing wireless headphones: practical buying tips and popular choices

Wireless headphones are useful for working from home, travelling, listening to music and making calls. However, a long list of features does not automatically mean that a model suits the way you use it. For example, Bluetooth headphones may offer long battery life but feel uncomfortable to wear. And noise-cancelling headphones may reduce ambient noise while making conversations less clear in busy surroundings.

The main pitfalls usually come down to three points:

  • Battery claims without usage context: the stated playback time often applies without ANC, at a particular volume and under specific conditions.
  • Unclear audio claims: terms such as “Hi-Res Audio” or “AI noise cancellation” mean little without information about codecs, drivers and microphones.
  • The wrong fit: over-ear headphones are not always suitable for sport, while wireless earbuds may not be comfortable for everyone to wear for extended periods.

Which specifications should you check?

1. Battery life with and without ANC

Check whether the manufacturer states the playback time with active noise cancellation as well as without ANC. For example, the Soundcore Space One Pro is listed in the product description as offering 60 hours without ANC and 40 hours with ANC. According to the product information, the CMF Headphone Pro offers up to 100 hours without ANC and 48 hours with ANC.

Fast charging is useful too. Look at the actual relationship between charging time and additional playback time. A model that can play for several more hours after just a few minutes of charging is handy for commuting or a long train journey.

2. Fit, weight and environment

Over-ear headphones surround the ear and can be comfortable during long listening sessions. On the other hand, this type can be larger and warmer to wear. An on-ear model such as the Sony WH-CH520 weighs just 147 grams, making it relatively light according to the product specifications, but offers less coverage around the ear.

For running or cycling, sports headphones with ear hooks or an open-ear design may be a more logical choice. When it comes to water resistance, always check the IP rating. IPX5 or IP54 does not mean that a product is suitable for submersion or swimming. According to the product information, the Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro has an IP57 rating, but the safety information states that swimming is not recommended.

3. ANC, codecs and connectivity

ANC stands for active noise cancellation. Microphones measure ambient sound, after which the headphones produce an opposing sound. The effect can vary depending on the environment: constant low-frequency sounds on an aeroplane or train are often easier to reduce than voices.

Also look out for:

  • Bluetooth version: a newer version may offer benefits for power consumption and connectivity, but compatibility also depends on your smartphone or laptop.
  • Multipoint: this allows you to connect the headphones to two devices, such as a phone and work laptop.
  • Audio codecs: SBC and AAC are widely supported. According to the product specifications, LDAC can transmit more audio data, but the source device must also support this codec.
  • Microphones: the number of microphones is no guarantee of perfect calls. Manufacturers may claim call noise cancellation based on their own research or product descriptions, so also check user experiences and the returns policy.

Recommendations by user profile

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

Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Bluetooth Headphones - Yellow

Why it suits this profile: A lightweight on-ear model for everyday listening, calls and use with a phone or laptop.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specifications state the weight, multipoint and USB-C connectivity. However, check the current battery-life information, as different product descriptions state 40 or 50 hours.

Key benefit & advantages

147 grams, AAC/SBC codecs, multipoint connectivity and fast charging according to the product information.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Headphones - Black

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Headphones - Black

Why it suits this profile: Designed for users looking for over-ear headphones with ANC, app settings and a wired option.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The choice of ANC modes and an audio cable makes this model more versatile. According to the product information, battery life remains 24 hours, which is less than some models without ANC.

Key benefit & advantages

Bluetooth 5.3, Hi-Res Audio, multipoint and a closed-back over-ear design according to the product specifications.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Verbex BL-09 Black Headphones

Verbex BL-09 Black Headphones

Why it suits this profile: An open-ear bone-conduction model for active pursuits where staying aware of ambient sound is important.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The open-ear design does not block the ears like ANC headphones. For swimming, follow the specified mode and safety instructions; Bluetooth does not work underwater.

Key benefit & advantages

Bluetooth 5.3, an open-ear fit, NFC and stated storage for eight hours according to the product description.

Suitable for: Travellers and long listening sessions
Soundcore by Anker Space One Pro Wireless Headphones

Soundcore by Anker Space One Pro Wireless Headphones

Why it suits this profile: Ideal for anyone looking for foldable headphones with ANC, LDAC and long battery life for travel or the office.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description gives separate battery figures for ANC switched on and off. This makes it easier to compare the claim with your own usage.

Key benefit & advantages

Up to 60 hours without ANC, 40 hours with ANC, LDAC and, according to the product information, five minutes of fast charging for eight hours of playback.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about wireless headphones

How do I connect wireless headphones to my phone?

Switch on the headphones and activate pairing mode. Then open your phone’s Bluetooth settings and select the product name. Some models support Google Fast Pair on Android devices and Microsoft Swift Pair on Windows computers. If the connection does not work, remove an old pairing and charge the headphones sufficiently first.

How long does the battery of Bluetooth headphones last?

It varies depending on the type and how you use them. According to the product specifications, over-ear headphones can last from 24 to 100 hours, depending on ANC and volume. Wireless earbuds generally offer shorter playback per charge, but the charging case extends the total usage time. Bear in mind that battery capacity decreases over time.

Are noise-cancelling headphones suitable for cycling or driving?

No, take care when using headphones in traffic. ANC and closed ear cushions can reduce ambient sound. When cycling or taking part in other activities, only use a model and volume setting that allows you to hear what is happening around you clearly enough, and follow UK traffic regulations. Open-ear sports headphones may be more practical in these situations, but they do not eliminate the risk entirely.