Choosing wireless headphones: a practical guide to music, calls and everyday use

Wireless headphones might seem easy to choose: connect via Bluetooth, start playing music and you’re all set. In practice, models vary widely in comfort, microphone quality, battery life and suitability for sport or travel. A low price also tells you little about the fit or how reliable the connection will be.

So, look out for these three common pitfalls:

• Battery life without clear usage conditions: the stated maximum may not apply when active noise cancellation, calls or high volume are used.
• Noise cancellation that doesn’t block every sound: active noise cancellation works best against constant low-frequency sounds, such as train or aeroplane noise. Voices and sudden sounds may still be audible.
• A fit that doesn’t suit how you’ll use them: in-ear earbuds can be compact, but not everyone finds them comfortable. Open-ear headphones let you hear more of your surroundings, but block out less sound.

Which specifications matter?

1. Style and comfort

First, choose between over-ear headphones, in-ear earbuds, half-in-ear earbuds or open-ear headphones.

• Over-ear: goes around your ears and is suitable for working from home, travelling and listening for long periods. Check the weight, headband pressure and how warm your ears might get.
• In-ear or TWS earbuds: compact and handy when you’re out and about. A good fit is important for comfort and stable bass.
• Open-ear: rests beside or on your ear. This style can be comfortable for walking or working, as it blocks out less of your surroundings.
• Clip-on or ear-hook: often stays securely in place while you move. Check that the hook fits comfortably, too.

2. Battery life and charging

Compare not only the earbuds’ play time, but also the total battery life with the charging case. A model offering, for example, 8 hours of play time per charge may be enough for your daily commute. For travel or long working days, headphones with long battery life are more practical.

Also check:

• whether a charging case is included;
• which type of cable or connector you need;
• whether fast charging is supported;
• whether the stated battery life is with or without noise cancellation;
• whether there’s a wired option for when the battery runs out.

For example, the Soundcore Space One lists battery life of up to 55 hours and can be used via Bluetooth or a 3.5mm connection. That makes it a flexible option when the battery runs out.

3. Connection, microphone and protection

Bluetooth headphones should pair reliably with your phone, tablet and laptop. Bluetooth 5.3 or 5.4 indicates up-to-date connectivity technology, but doesn’t tell you everything about range or call quality.

For working from home and making calls, the number of microphones is only one thing to consider. Also look at their placement, wind filtering and whether there’s a mute or control function. A headset with a microphone can be more convenient for online meetings than separate earbuds.

For sport, the IP rating matters:

• IPX4: protection against splashes and sweat, but not immersion.
• IPX5: protection against water jets under certain conditions.
• IP55: limited protection against dust and protection against water jets.

A water-resistance rating doesn’t mean a product is suitable for swimming. Check whether the charging case also needs to be kept dry.

Our recommendations for different users

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

Samsung EO-IC100 Wired In-Ear Headset for Calls/Music, USB Type-C, Black

Why it suits this profile: A wired USB-C headset is easy to use, with no pairing or charging required. According to the product information, this model weighs 18,35 grams and has a built-in microphone and controls.

How this product avoids the pitfall

No need to worry about Bluetooth range or battery status. Just check in advance that your phone or laptop supports audio via its USB-C port.

Key benefit & features

USB-C, in-line controls, a microphone and a selection of ear tip sizes included, according to the product description.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for top quality

Sonos ACE Over-Ear Bluetooth Headphones, Black

Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, these over-ear headphones are designed for music, calls and travel, with active noise cancellation, transparency mode and support for multiple devices.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications list both noise cancellation and Aware Mode. This lets you choose between more immersive listening and hearing more of your surroundings, depending on the situation.

Key benefit & features

Up to 30 hours of battery life, USB-C and 3.5mm connections, multipoint connectivity and microphones for calls, according to the product details.

Suitable for: Specific needs & intensive use

Soundcore AeroFit 2 Wireless Open-Ear Headphones

Why it suits this profile: The open-ear design is intended for calls, music, sport and everyday use. According to the product specifications, it has Bluetooth 5.4, an IP55 rating and button controls.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The open design means you’re not completely cut off from your surroundings. IP55 offers protection against sweat and splashes, but isn’t a substitute for protection against immersion.

Key benefit & features

Open-ear design, Bluetooth 5.4, 750mAh battery and charging station, according to the product information.

Frequently asked questions about wireless headphones

How do I connect Bluetooth headphones to my phone?

First, charge your headphones and switch on Bluetooth on your phone. When pairing for the first time, open the Bluetooth settings and select the product name. With TWS earbuds, you usually need to open the charging case first. Check the manual if the model doesn’t appear or is already connected to another device.

How long does the battery in wireless earbuds last?

It varies by model, volume, codec, phone calls and whether you use noise cancellation. Check the difference between play time per charge and total play time with the charging case. Battery performance declines over time, so avoid storing the product for a long time fully discharged or in extreme temperatures.

Are noise-cancelling headphones suitable for cycling?

Not necessarily. Active noise cancellation can reduce surrounding sounds, but traffic noise is important to hear. Only use headphones if you can still see and hear enough of your surroundings, and follow the Dutch traffic regulations. An open-ear model may be more suitable for sport, but you’ll still need to stay alert.