Wireless headphones may seem easy to choose at first. However, models can vary considerably in comfort, battery life, noise isolation and controls. A pair of Bluetooth headphones that’s comfortable on a train journey won’t necessarily be right for sport or gaming.
Look out for these three common pitfalls:
Long battery life claims without clear usage conditions
Manufacturers often state the maximum playback time. This may be lower when noise cancelling, high volume or phone calls are involved. Always check whether the stated battery life applies with ANC switched on or off.
Expecting noise cancelling to create complete silence
Noise-cancelling headphones reduce ambient noise using active electronics. The results vary by model and type of sound. Low, constant sounds such as train or aircraft noise are generally handled differently from voices or sudden sounds. According to the brands’ own product information, performance can also vary between listening modes.
Focusing on sound quality alone
Headphones may have impressive technical specifications and still feel uncomfortable. Also consider the weight, ear cushions, clamping force, adjustability and how well the ear cups seal. These details make a real difference, especially during long listening sessions.
Over-ear headphones completely cover your ears. They can be comfortable for travelling, working or gaming because the ear cups provide a better seal. However, they may be heavier or make your ears feel warm.
On-ear headphones rest on your ears. This type is often lighter and more compact. The Marshall Major V, JBL Tune 520BT2 and Skullcandy Riff 2 are examples of wireless on-ear models. If you’re looking for compact, foldable headphones for your commute, this style may be a practical choice.
A traditional headband isn’t always the most convenient option for sport. According to the product information, the Soundcore AeroFit Pro has an ear hook and an IPX5 rating. This means the stated specification offers protection against water jets, but doesn’t automatically make the model suitable for immersion.
Bluetooth versions such as Bluetooth 5.2, 5.3, 5.4 or 6.0 give you an indication of the wireless connection, but they don’t determine sound quality on their own. Also check:
Headphones with a microphone are suitable for calls and online meetings, but how clearly you’ll be heard depends on the microphone’s position, background noise and software. A wireless gaming headset with a detachable microphone is usually more practical for communicating while gaming. According to the product information, the Razer Barracuda X supports Bluetooth, a USB-C dongle and a 3.5mm jack.
Headphones with long battery life can be handy if you travel often or don’t want to charge them every day. Be sure to compare the conditions:
According to the product information, the JBL Tune 520BT2 offers up to 76 hours of playback, with a short charge providing extra listening time. The Marshall Major V is listed with more than 100 hours of wireless playback. These are maximum figures from the product descriptions; actual use may vary.
Why it suits this profile: Lightweight on-ear headphones for music, podcasts, calls and everyday travel. The foldable design is handy for carrying in a bag.
The product information gives specific figures for weight, battery life, Bluetooth and fast charging. This lets you check the main things to expect before you buy.
Up to 76 hours of stated playback, two microphones according to the product description, Bluetooth multipoint and a weight of 152 grams.
Why it suits this profile: Designed for people who travel frequently, work from home or specifically want over-ear headphones with active noise control.
The product information lists noise cancelling, a transparency mode, app controls and a stated battery life of 24 hours. That makes it clear which features are included.
Bluetooth 5.3 according to the specifications, control via the Bose app, audio connections and an over-ear design with soft ear cushions.
Why it suits this profile: For gamers who want to use a wireless gaming headset on the go or with multiple devices.
According to the product information, the headset works with both a USB-C dongle and Bluetooth, and has a detachable microphone. This means you’re not limited to a single connection method.
Stated battery life of up to 50 hours, 40mm drivers, a 3.5mm jack and compatibility with PC, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch and Android, among others.
Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, the ear hook is designed to keep the headphones securely in place during sport, everyday use and calls.
The product details list an ear hook, button controls and IPX5 water resistance. Always check the user guide, and avoid submerging the headphones.
Bluetooth 5.3, support for AAC, LDAC and SBC, a range of up to 10 metres and a stated playback time of 14 hours.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Switch on the headphones and activate pairing mode. Then open the Bluetooth settings on your smartphone and select the device name. When you connect for the first time, an app may offer additional settings or firmware updates. If pairing doesn’t work, remove the headphones from your list of saved devices and try again.
It depends on the volume, codec, phone calls and features such as ANC. Maximum figures in product information are therefore best used to compare models. A model with a stated battery life of 24 hours may last for several working days in practice, while one with more than 70 hours will need charging less often.
They can be, but check that they have a microphone and clear specifications for calls. Noise cancelling for listening and noise reduction for the microphone are different features. For online meetings, headphones with a microphone, multipoint and, if needed, a wired backup are often a practical choice.