Vandaag of morgen in huis
Kwaliteit gegarandeerd
Welkomstaanbiedingen ontgrendelen: GRATIS bezorging | Tot 80% korting | Gratis 30 dagen JoyPlus-proefperiode
Download de app
A pair of wireless over-ear headphones with noise cancellation may seem like a straightforward purchase on paper. In practice, however, models can differ considerably in comfort, battery life, call quality and how active noise cancellation works. A long list of features does not always tell you how well a pair of headphones will suit the way you use them.
For train journeys, working from home, listening to music or making calls, three pitfalls are particularly important:
With active noise cancellation, also known as ANC, built-in microphones detect surrounding sounds. The headphones then produce an opposing signal. This is particularly effective for constant sounds, such as the hum of an aeroplane, train or ventilation system.
ANC is not the same as complete silence. Voices, bicycle traffic and sudden noises may still be partly audible. A transparency or aware mode is useful when you need to hear your surroundings quickly in the office or while travelling.
According to the brands’ own research, some systems can reduce a certain amount of noise. Treat such figures as product specifications, not as a guarantee of the same experience in every environment.
Long battery life is useful for commuting and travelling. Always check:
A Bluetooth headset with multipoint can also be connected to, for example, a laptop and smartphone at the same time. This is practical if you switch between music, meetings and phone calls.
A larger driver does not automatically mean better sound. Consider the combination of driver size, frequency range, app settings and supported codecs. Hi-Res Audio or LDAC may be useful for compatible devices and music files, but the source, connection and settings also influence what you actually hear.
For headphones used for music and calls, microphones, wind-noise reduction and voice processing are at least as important as the speakers. If you mainly game at home, you should also check whether Bluetooth is suitable for the platform you use. A wired gaming headset, such as the JBL Quantum 300, falls outside the category of completely wireless ANC headphones, for example.
Why it suits this profile: This model combines hybrid ANC, Bluetooth 5.4 and a foldable design. The product information states 45 hours of playback and an integrated microphone for everyday use.
The specifications list battery life, the Bluetooth version and dual-device connectivity separately. Do check whether the stated 45 hours applies with ANC switched on or off.
Hybrid ANC, 40mm driver, Bluetooth 5.4 and connection to two devices.
Why it suits this profile: The stated features include Bluetooth 5.4, active noise cancellation, spatial audio and both wireless and wired connectivity.
The detachable cable provides an alternative when Bluetooth or the battery is unavailable. Check the battery and charging details before you buy.
Bluetooth 5.4, multipoint, Hi-Res Audio according to the product specifications and a supplied travel case.
Why it suits this profile: For long working days, travel and plenty of music listening, Sennheiser states up to 60 hours of playback, adaptive ANC and an app with an equaliser and sound modes.
The product description specifies the battery life, four microphones and a transparency mode. For intensive use, also check the fit and note that the headphones are not water-resistant.
Up to 60 hours according to the manufacturer, 42mm transducers, adaptive ANC and wired use.
Why it suits this profile: The foldable design is practical when carrying the headphones in a bag. The product specifications state 60 hours without ANC, 40 hours with ANC and fast charging.
The playback times with ANC switched on and off are listed separately here. This makes it easier to compare the expected battery life with other models.
Foldable, LDAC, Hi-Res Wireless Audio according to the product information and 5 minutes of charging for up to 8 hours of playback.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
That depends on the number of microphones, their positioning and the voice-processing software. Look for product specifications such as beamforming, wind-noise reduction and an explicit mention of call performance. Also read user reviews about voice clarity in busy surroundings.
Playback time per charge varies by model and settings. The lifespan of the device also depends on battery use, storage and maintenance. Keep the headphones dry, use a suitable USB-C charger and avoid prolonged exposure to heat. A wired connection can keep the headphones usable for longer when the battery is flat.
No. A more expensive model may offer extra features, such as spatial audio, multipoint or improved app controls, but not everyone uses those features. Above all, compare ANC, comfort, battery life, weight, microphones and connections with your everyday needs. Also keep the volume at a comfortable level and take regular breaks when listening for long periods.
