Things to Consider before Buying Wireless Headphones?

Answer 1

Wireless headphones provide listeners with a great deal of freedom, but many consumers still have reservations. After all, many wireless headphones are expensive, at least compared to their wired counterparts, and no one wants to pay all that extra money for an inferior listening experience.

If you're considering wireless headphones, the first thing you should understand is that quality, particularly with Bluetooth sets using AD2P, is quite high. The sound quality likely isn't high enough for the most demanding audiophiles, but the quality certainly is as good as most mid-tier wired headphones.

There are also wireless headphones that use a radio frequency. One of the problems with these is that they're susceptible to electronic interference. This can be a significant problem in crowded environments, such as dorms where they may be dozens of devices on a single floor. On the flipside, such headphones have longer ranges. So if extended range is important, and you're not using them in a crowded environment, then radio may be the better choice.

The biggest consideration when purchasing headphones is range. If you buy wireless headphone to use in the car or with your iPod, then range isn't that big of deal. If you purchase a set with a base station, and plan to roam all around your dorm or your two-level home plus a basement, then range definitely matters. Beyond optimal distance, there will be reduced sound quality, then static and break-ups, and eventually loss of sound altogether.

Another important consideration is power. Wireless headphones need power, and they can't get it through the connection. Therefore, they require batteries. Some have a built-in rechargeable battery, while other use removable batteries. When purchasing, consider your usage pattern and the lifespan of the battery type. At home, charging is less of an issue since you can charge as you listen. If you opt for the kind with replaceable batteries, you may want to save money long term by opting for a rechargeable option.

Many wireless headphones tend to be heavier than their wired counterparts are. A small amount of weight may not seem like much at first, but it may after extended use. When wearing headphones for a long period, larger is better but so is lighter. Consider paying more for cushioned headphones that are lightweight despite the addition of the battery.