The best wireless headphones for 2024: Bluetooth options for every budget.
Here is a selection of the best wireless headphones currently available, according to the opinions of the editors of a renowned technology publication.
Wireless headphones have become a very popular choice among users, and it's easy to understand the reasons. They provide freedom of movement without tangled wires, and current Bluetooth connections are more reliable than ever. Additionally, many of these devices offer superior sound quality beyond expectations, featuring impressive elements like adaptive active noise cancellation (ANC), which helps eliminate distractions. Battery life has also improved, allowing for uninterrupted playback whether you're traveling, exercising, or simply enjoying your favorite music.
Certainly, some models of wireless headphones stand out more than others, and to simplify the choice, tests and reviews of the most popular options have been conducted. Recommendations are based on a combination of essential characteristics such as sound quality, ANC performance, comfort, and useful additional features like companion apps for customization. Whether you're looking for premium sound or a more budget-friendly option, there's a pair of wireless headphones to meet every need.
When choosing wireless headphones, the first decision should be the style of use: do you prefer over-ear or on-ear models? This guide focuses on over-ear styles, which are more effective at blocking external sound, especially in models with ANC. If you tend to listen to music at high volumes in noisy environments, ANC will be a desirable feature; on the other hand, if you use headphones in quiet places, you might save money by forgoing this function.
It's also crucial to consider the features. It's recommended to get the best value for your money by establishing which elements are essential and which can be passed over. Basic aspects like automatic pause and multipoint connectivity should not be underestimated, as not all manufacturers include them. Reading reviews on how advanced features perform will help you decide if it's worth paying more for them. Additionally, it's advisable to have realistic expectations about battery life, as some brands promise more hours than they actually deliver under real-use conditions.
Sound is subjective, so it's suggested to try the headphones before making a purchase, although this is acknowledged to be tricky in a largely online shopping world. Listening to and testing a pair of headphones for a few minutes can prevent future regrets. Surround audio formats like Spatial Audio, Dolby Atmos, and 360 Reality Audio should also be considered, as not all headphones are compatible. If you plan to use the headphones for media beyond music, check the latency, as even a slight delay could affect movie or video game playback.
To test over-ear headphones, the main focus is on using them for an extended period. It's preferred to conduct these tests over one or two weeks, although this may vary. During this time, a mix of music and podcasts is listened to, and the headphones are used for voice and video calls. Given that battery life can last up to 30 hours or more, the battery is drained with looping music. The analysis also focuses on audio quality, testing different genres and monitoring consistency at both low and high volumes.
In photos of some highlighted models, Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones have remained a preferred option thanks to their comfort and sound quality. Moreover, improvements have been made in ANC with an additional chip, achieving better blocking of environmental noise. Other models, such as the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e, stand out for their sound quality and comfort, although they lack some advanced features offered by competitors.
Audio-Technica's M20xBT headphones present an affordable option with comfort and good battery life. Meanwhile, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra boasts excellent ANC, although its audio quality can be inconsistent depending on the content. Finally, Panasonic's EAH-A800 promises 50 hours of battery life with ANC activated, making it comfortable for prolonged use.
In summary, when exploring the various options for wireless headphones, it's essential to weigh factors like sound quality, battery life, and specific features that suit your preferences and needs.
