Joybuy Insights

Choosing wireless headphones: specifications and pitfalls to look out for

Wireless headphones may seem simple to choose at first. However, models vary considerably in comfort, battery life, sound quality and connectivity. A low price can be tempting, but a poor fit, limited microphone performance or lack of noise cancelling can make them disappointing to use every day.

These points will help you compare Bluetooth headphones for music, travel, working from home and calls.

Common pitfalls when choosing wireless headphones

1. Checking battery life without considering how you’ll use them

Manufacturers often quote battery life under specific conditions. ANC, high volume, phone calls and features such as spatial audio can all reduce listening time. So always compare:

  • battery life with noise cancelling switched on and off;
  • charging time and the extra listening time provided by a quick charge;
  • the type of connector, usually USB-C;
  • whether you can listen using a cable when the battery runs out.

Headphones with long battery life are especially useful for train journeys, flights and long working days. For example, the CMF Headphone Pro is listed as offering up to 100 hours without ANC and up to 48 hours with ANC. These figures relate to different usage conditions and won’t represent the same listening time for everyone.

2. Mistaking noise cancelling for complete silence

Noise-cancelling headphones use microphones and electronics to reduce background noise. How well they work depends on the fit, the type of sound and the mode selected. Low, constant sounds such as train or aircraft noise are generally different from voices or sudden noises.

So check whether the model has:

  • active noise cancelling, also known as ANC;
  • a transparency mode for hearing the sounds around you;
  • adjustable ANC levels;
  • a well-fitting headband and ear cushions.

According to the product information, the Sony WH-CH720N offers adjustable noise cancelling through the Sony Headphones Connect app. The UGREEN HiTune Max5c has ANC, normal and transparency modes, according to its product description.

3. Focusing only on the brand name or audio terminology

Terms such as hi-res audio, LDAC and spatial audio don’t just depend on the headphones. Your smartphone, the app you use and the audio source also need to be compatible. What’s more, a codec alone won’t determine whether the sound suits your preferences.

Alongside marketing terms, look for specifications you can check:

  • supported Bluetooth codecs, such as AAC, SBC or LDAC;
  • driver size and type;
  • frequency range;
  • whether you can use a cable;
  • the quality of the built-in microphone;
  • weight and adjustability.

Key specifications explained

On-ear or over-ear?

On-ear headphones rest on your ears. This type is often compact and lightweight. The Sony WH-CH520 weighs 147 grams and has an adjustable headband, according to its specifications. This makes it suitable for everyday use and listening on the go, but its earcups block out less background noise than an over-ear model.

Over-ear headphones fully enclose your ears. They can offer greater comfort and passive noise isolation, but are usually larger and heavier. Examples include the 250-gram Sony WH-1000XM5, the 264-gram Edifier Atom Max and the 283-gram CMF Headphone Pro.

Battery life and quick charging

Don’t just compare the highest figure on the packaging. Check the battery life with ANC switched on, too. Here are a few examples from the product information:

  • Sony WH-CH720N: up to 50 hours without ANC and up to 35 hours with ANC;
  • Sony WH-1000XM5: up to 40 hours without ANC and up to 30 hours with ANC;
  • CMF Headphone Pro: up to 100 hours without ANC and up to 48 hours with ANC;
  • UGREEN HiTune Max5c: up to 75 hours without ANC and up to 45 hours with ANC;
  • Sonos Ace: up to 30 hours with active noise cancelling.

The Sony WH-CH520’s product description states up to 50 hours, while a technical specification lists 40 hours. Always check the current product page and the version you’ve selected before buying.

Multipoint and calls

Headphones with multipoint can connect to two devices at the same time. This is useful if you switch between a laptop and smartphone while working. The Sony WH-CH520, Sony WH-CH720N, Sony WH-1000XM5, CMF Headphone Pro and Sonos Ace all list this feature in their product information.

The microphones also matter if you want headphones for music and calls. Look for background noise filtering, controls on the earcup and support for voice assistants. Good music playback doesn’t automatically mean calls will sound clear, too.

Recommendations for different types of users

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

Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Bluetooth Headphones - Beige

Why it suits this profile: This lightweight on-ear model is a good choice for music, podcasts and calls if you don’t want to go straight for heavier ANC headphones. Its headband is adjustable, and multipoint is handy for connecting to a smartphone and laptop.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications list a weight of 147 grams and multipoint connectivity. Do check the current battery life information, though, as the product details state both 40 and up to 50 hours.

Key benefits and features

Lightweight design, USB-C, microphone, multipoint and support for the Sony Headphones Connect app.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones Black

Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones with Noise Cancelling - Black

Why it suits this profile: This over-ear model is aimed at users who value ANC, multipoint and LDAC support for travel, listening to music and working.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated battery life is broken down into 30 hours with ANC and 40 hours without ANC. A cable is also included for wired listening.

Key benefits and features

Over-ear design, active noise cancelling, LDAC, multipoint, app controls and quick charging.

Suitable for: Specific needs and frequent users
CMF by Nothing Headphone Pro Dark Grey

CMF by Nothing Headphone Pro Dark Gray

Why it suits this profile: For long working days, travel and frequent listening, the range of ANC modes, multipoint and impressive stated battery life are practical features.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information distinguishes between battery life with ANC switched on and off. The ear cushions are replaceable, and there’s also a transparency mode.

Key benefits and features

40mm drivers, LDAC, hybrid ANC, up to 100 hours without ANC and up to 8 hours of use from a 5-minute charge, according to the product information.

Looking for more options?

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

Frequently asked questions about wireless headphones

How do I connect Bluetooth headphones to my smartphone?

Switch on the headphones and activate pairing mode. Then open your smartphone’s Bluetooth settings and select the model name. On some devices, Google Fast Pair or Microsoft Swift Pair can speed up the initial connection. Once paired, check that the correct audio device is selected.

How long do wireless headphones last?

Listening time per charge varies by model and settings. The lifespan of the headphones also depends on charging cycles, hinges, ear cushions and day-to-day care. Keep them dry, use a suitable USB-C cable and avoid exposing them to heat. Replaceable ear cushions, such as those on the CMF Headphone Pro, can be useful if you use your headphones a lot.

Are more expensive noise-cancelling headphones always right for me?

Not necessarily. If you mainly listen at home, a lightweight pair of on-ear headphones may be enough. ANC can be more useful for train journeys or a busy office. So start by comparing how you’ll use them, along with fit, battery life, microphone and connectivity features. That way, you’ll only pay for specifications you’ll actually use.