The Best Bluetooth Headphones For TV 2021

A pair of Bluetooth headphones are a terrific addition to your home theater. They can easily elevate your TV watching experience to new levels with their high-quality audio as well as letting you enjoy your favorite TV shows and movies without bothering other people in the house. Apart from that, dedicated headphones made specifically for TV use typically have a plethora of audio options that will help you get the most out of your media. We’ll be getting into more of its specifics shortly, so if you’d like to find out more, just keep scrolling to read our top picks for the best Bluetooth headphones for TV this 2021.

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Why Get Bluetooth Headphones For TV?

Sometimes, a good home theatre isn’t always about filling your living room space with the biggest speakers, amplifiers, or subwoofers to get the best audio possible. Not everyone can afford them or have the space available. Some of you might also be living in a shared apartment or house with thin walls and you don’t want to disrupt the people around you while streaming action-packed movies.

A great solution to still having great audio quality without bothering others with your noise is investing in a pair of Bluetooth headphones designed specifically for TV use. This is an awesome way to watch your favorite shows in your living room late at night without anyone having to tell you to keep your volume down. Plus, you’ll also be able to fully enjoy the soundtracks and scoring your show has to offer.

However, it’s also very important to note that not all headphones you see in the market are suitable for watching TV shows and movies, so choose your selection carefully. One significant and bothersome issue when opting for wireless headphones to use with a TV is the slight delay between what you see on screen and what you hear.

This is because of latency, which is the amount of time it takes for sound to travel from the source to the headphones. The good news is that Bluetooth codecs have improved upon this issue in recent years and have progressively reduced latency and eliminated the majority of the problems.

In particular, Bluetooth 5.0, which has a 40-meter indoor range compared to Bluetooth 4.2’s 10-meter range, should assure an excellent match between audio and visuals. Overall, there should be no problems using the best Bluetooth headphones for watching TV on our list.

Bluetooth vs RF vs IR Headphones

Radio Frequency (RF), Bluetooth (BT), and infrared (IR) headphones are the three types of wireless headphones you’ll come across in the market that’s designed for TV viewing. But which of these wireless technologies should you choose? To help you out, I’ll explain below the distinctions between RF, BT, and IR headphones.

Radio Frequency TV Headphones (RF)

An electromagnetic field is formed when a radiofrequency (or RF) alternating current is sent to an antenna. Wireless communication is thus enabled by this electromagnetic field. Two types of equipment are required to connect RF headphones to your television. One is the transmitter, which will be the docking station in this scenario, and the other is the receiver, which is normally in the headphones.

RF headphones also offer a longer transmission line than other wireless technologies like Bluetooth and Infrared. They have a transmission range of over 100 meters. Radio frequencies, in addition to having a great transmission distance, are not obstructed by obstacles and may pass through walls with no loss of audio or connection quality. RF headphones are the greatest choice for a group audio experience because of these qualities.

Bluetooth Headphones

Bluetooth is a radiofrequency technology that is most widely used in wireless headphone technology in the market. Bluetooth connection is built into the majority of products these days which is why it’s so popular and the most commonly used.

Bluetooth’s popularity stems from the fact that it is a standardized protocol. The ranges vary based on the Bluetooth version and operate at a lower radio frequency of 2.4 GHz. Bluetooth versions 4.0 and below have a range of around 10 meters, whereas Bluetooth 5.0 has a range of approximately 30 meters.

With that in mind, your audio device or TV must also be Bluetooth capable to establish a connection, as well as switched on and discoverable, in order for Bluetooth to operate with your headphones. Bluetooth also has the advantage of being able to connect to any Bluetooth-enabled device without the use of a transmitter.

Bluetooth headphones also have certain drawbacks as well. First, because Bluetooth is a radio frequency technology, Bluetooth headphones often face interference, which comes in the form of popping and hissing sounds. Usage of Bluetooth also tends to drain the battery of your device as well as issues with latency.

Infrared Headphones

Infrared headphones or IR headphones, use infrared signals to connect to audio playback devices. Just like RF headphones, these require a transmitter and a receiver to create a connection. On the other hand, IR headphones function by sending light-emitting diodes (LEDs) from the transmitter to the receiver in the headphones, unlike other wireless headphone technologies.

When you attach the transmitter to your TV, it delivers a pulsing beam of invisible light to the receiver in the headphones. They are converted into audible sound waves once they reach the receiver. This is the same technology that is used in TV remote controls. Because the headphones may be used without interference or overlapping with other signals, IR headphones are suitable for listening in privacy. However, because sunshine reduces infrared wavelengths, they are not suitable for outdoor use.

Our Top Recommendations

1. Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 Wireless (2016)

Overview

The Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 Wireless (2016) is one of the best Bluetooth headphones for TV we’ve come across in the market. While Bluetooth headphones often suffer from high audio lag and latency issues, this particular pair supports the aptX-LL codec.

This allows these headphones to provide a low latency connection that’s stable enough for watching TV. But keep in mind that you are going to need a Bluetooth adapter or transmitter that supports the codec to fully utilize this feature.

When the original Plantronics BackBeat Pro was launched, they received a lot of positive feedback from the community. They were by no means perfect, but they had a lot of features to enjoy, sounded amazing, and had pretty great active noise cancellation (ANC). However, Plantronics has improved the BackBeat Pro 2 by preserving what works and addressing what doesn’t, such as its size and weight.

The BackBeat Pro 2’s sound profile is well-balanced, adding just enough bass and thumps to make sure you’re hearing the vibrant sound effects of your shows and films. When it comes to battery life, you certainly won’t be disappointed with its 30 hours of continuous playback. So if you have any plans of binging your favorite shows, these are the perfect headphones for you.

All in all, for the price, the Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 has outstanding battery life, excellent sound quality, and effective active noise cancellation without breaking the bank. Although they don’t have the finest noise cancellation on the market, they are unquestionably fantastic value for the money.

Check Out Our Full Review Of The Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 Here.

Features & Specifications

• Brand: Plantronics
• Dimensions: 8.1 x 7.8 x 9 inches
• Item Weight: 0.63 lbs
• Type: Over-Ear
• Noise Cancelling: Yes
• Built-In Mic: Yes
• Battery Life: 24 hours

Rating: 9.5 out of 10

Where Can I Buy The Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 Wireless (2016)?

2. Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless

Overview

When the first and second generations of the Sennheiser Momentum came, they were instant hits, and the newest iteration is no exception. Sennheiser’s Momentum Wireless headphones are well-known in the wireless headphone market, and the third generation of the popular series does not disappoint.

Along with their vast family of wired, over-ear, one-ear, in-ear, and true wireless siblings, the flagship pairs in the now-iconic Momentum line and have perfectly represented the series’ lineup. There are three noise-canceling modes to choose from as well as several features to experiment and tinker around with.

The Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless also supports aptX, AAC, SBC Bluetooth, and aptX Low Latency. This aids in enhancing the synchronization of audio in your headphones and the visual material from your TV screen whether you’re gaming or doing a movie marathon of your favorite films.

On top of that, performance is also better than it has ever been. Given the Momentum family’s background and reputation, this is no small claim. The clarity and rhythm on the Momentum 3 are simply exceptional while also giving you all-day comfort, making this pair of headphones an excellent choice for any TV viewer.

Check Out Our Full Review Of The Sennheiser Momentum 3 Here.

Features & Specifications

• Brand: Sennheiser
• Dimensions: 7.8 x 6.7 x 1.78 inches
• Item Weight: 0.67 lbs.
• Type: Over-Ear
• Noise Cancelling: Yes
• Built-In Mic: Yes
• Battery Life: Up to 17 hours.

Rating: 9 out of 10.

Where Can I Buy The Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless?

3. Bowers & Wilkins PX7

Overview

Honestly, it can be quite tempting to use a set of Bluetooth headphones to watch TV if your smart TV supports this function. For the most part, that can work, but there’s usually some latency issue, which can result in a lip-sync problem. As a result, the audio you’re hearing from your headphones might not match what you’re seeing on your TV screen.

However, if you’re planning to listen to music instead, this shouldn’t be a big deal. Enter the Bowers & Wilkins PX7. This particular pair of Bluetooth headphones uses Qualcomm’s aptX Adaptive codec to minimize Bluetooth latency even more.

The PX7 is also especially useful in noisy areas, as they include three levels of noise reduction and can play audio through a USB connection from a computer or any phone or tablet you have on hand.

However, keep in mind that in order to use the Low Latency codec, you’ll need to connect an aptX Adaptive Bluetooth transmitter to a compatible device, such as a PS5. As far as I know, there aren’t any TVs that support it natively right now.

All in all, Bowers & Wilkins has created a world-class set of headphones that give even the market’s finest a run for their money by bringing more advanced noise-canceling, much-improved sound quality, and a polished aesthetic to the table.

Features & Specifications

• Brand: Bowers & Wilkins
• Dimensions: 3.15 x 6.89 x 8.66 inches
• Item Weight: 0.67 lbs
• Type: Over-Ear
• Noise Cancelling: Yes.
• Built-In Mic: Yes.
• Battery Life: Up to 30 hours.

Rating: 9.5 out of 10.

Where Can I Buy The Bowers & Wilkins PX7?

4. Sony WH-1000XM4

Overview

The Sony WH-1000XM4 wireless headphones are a lovely pair of headphones that make an excellent TV option. They deliver outstanding audio quality with no latency concerns in a design that isn’t too heavy or unwieldy to use for a full movie or TV show marathon.

They also have a number of useful customization features, including adaptive sound management and active noise cancellation, all of which are backed up by great onboard controls and app compatibility for simple tweaks. The frequency response range of the neodymium drivers is 4Hz to 40,000Hz.

The Sony WH-100XM4 can also handle several devices at once while being compatible with Amazon Alexa, allowing you to swiftly switch to your phone or other mobile devices without needing to move your hands.

This also pairs nicely with the wearing detection feature, which can automatically halt playing when you remove your headphones, as well as with the speaking detection feature, which reduces the volume of your audio when you start conversing with someone else.

The major selling point, though, is the Sony WH-100XM4’s sound quality. Since the XM3 model, the low-end has been fine-tuned, and dynamic changes are handled with delicacy. And since latency issues are not a concern here, the timing is perfect. The performers’ lips will not be out of rhythm with the outgoing phrases. Without a doubt, the Sony WH-100XM4 is a solid pair of Bluetooth headphones to consider.

Features & Specifications

• Brand: Sony
• Dimensions: 7.27 x 3.03 x 9.94 inches
• Item Weight: 0.56 lbs
• Type: Over-Ear
• Noise Cancelling: Yes.
• Built-In Mic: Yes.
• Battery Life: Up to 30 hours.

Rating: 9.5 out of 10.

Where Can I Buy The Sony WH-1000XM4?

5. AKG Y50BTBLK

Overview

You’ll be ecstatic to learn that the AKG Y50BTBLK is an excellent pair of on-ear headphones that provide amazing wireless audio quality for the money. The features, design, and build quality are all dynamic and exceptional. They have an uncanny sense of timing and are capable of replicating a breathtaking amount of detail. So if you’re planning to do a movie marathon in your free time, this pair is a solid choice.

Although over-ears provide a somewhat tighter seal compared to their over-ear counterparts, the soft ear cushions are quite pleasant to wear even after long periods of time. This is a rare example of headphones that are equally good in terms of audio quality, features, design, and build quality. 

By wireless standards, the sound is exceptional, easily passing for a respectable corded performance. It’s quite clear, providing the kind of knowledge that makes judging the caliber of the talent on hand a breeze.  There’s also no sign of the hiss and whine that indicates that these headphones aren’t wireless.

That clarity is accompanied by a plethora of details. Instruments and voices have a variety of textures, which are organized well enough for you to notice the feeling of space and separation, but not so regulated to appear clinical. With a splash of panache thrown in for good measure, the result is a show that’s as enjoyable as it is professional.

Aside from its superb sound quality, this pair of on-ear headphones can last you a good 20 hours of continuous playback on a single charge and are also very affordable, making it ideal for budget-conscious people.

Features & Specifications

• Brand: AKG
• Dimensions: 2.36 x 7.87 x 8.86 inches
• Item Weight: 0.67 lbs.
• Type: On-Ear
• Noise Cancelling: No
• Built-In Mic: Yes
• Battery Life: Up to 20 hours.

Rating: 8.5 out of 10.

Where Can I Buy The AKG Y50BTBLK?

6. Bose QuietComfort 35 II

Overview

Bose is no stranger when it comes to wireless headphones. They’re one of the best and most well-known brands in the market. With that said, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II has a lot going for it. It’s packed with awesome features including world-class noise cancellation, rich and detailed audio performance, as well as a light and ultra-comfy design, thanks to Bose’s design for long-haul travel.

This pair of Bluetooth headphones may not be able to support the latest Bluetooth version, but they do more than make up for it with its other capabilities. Not only are these great for traveling and commuting, but they’re also pretty compatible with any TV setup that has support for Bluetooth.

These headphones also include a dedicated button for activating Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, which will allow you to play music, answer trivia questions, and read your smartphone alerts at your command hands-free. As for battery life, you can easily get 20 hours of playback on a single charge with this model.

When you combine all of that with the QuietComfort 35 II’s excellent audio quality and noise-canceling features, you have a pair of headphones that will appeal to a wide range of people.

Features & Specifications

• Brand: Bose
• Dimensions: 3.2 x 6.7 x 7.1 inches
• Item Weight: 8.3 ounces
• Type: Over-Ear
• Noise Cancelling: Yes
• Built-In Mic: Yes
• Battery Life: Up to 20 hours

Rating: 9 out of 10.

Where Can I Buy The Bose QuietComfort 35 II?

7. Sennheiser HD 450BT

Overview

Sennheiser headphones don’t require flashy looks or gimmicky features to get your attention. After all, the company’s reliable reputation and products speak for themselves.

Since the invention of wireless and noise-canceling headphones, this particular German manufacturer has created great wireless and noise-canceling headphones, most notably the models in its legendary Momentum collection which already took a spot on this list previously. With that being said, don’t be fooled by the all-too-simple design of the Sennheiser HD 450BT.

While they lack the obvious transparency and simplicity of some of the most excellent noise-canceling pairs on the market, the HD 450BT headphones have a lot to offer you. Its top-notch features, such as remarkable 30-hour battery life and aptX Low Latency support, are far from standard in headphones at this price point. So you’re really getting a lot of value at such an incredibly low price.

Features & Specifications

• Brand: Sennheiser
• Dimensions: 6.1 x 2.6 x 7.6 inches
• Item Weight: 0.52 lbs
• Type: Over-Ear
• Noise Cancelling: Yes
• Built-In Mic: Yes
• Battery Life: Up to 30 hours of battery life.

Rating: 9 out of 10.

Where Can I Buy The Sennheiser HD 450BT?

Before You Buy

Whatever your reason for purchasing Bluetooth headphones for your TV, a little knowledge can go a long way when it comes to selecting the best pair for a home cinema-like experience. This will also help you avoid making any costly or unnecessary purchases. Trust me, returning or exchanging products is a type of stress you would want to avoid. So, if you’re looking for the best headphones for watching TV, here’s what you should know.

Form Factor

As you may be aware, headphones come in a variety of designs and sizes. Over-ear, in-ear, and on-ear headphones are among the most common and widely used varieties. I’ll go over the different sorts of headphones to help you decide which is best for you and make buying for your next pair less of a hassle.

Over-Ear

Because of their snug form, over-ear headphones are the best options when it comes to noise-canceling features. They have a high noise-dampening capability, allowing you to hear what you want while allowing outside noise to escape. They’re also incredibly pleasant to wear. Although this varies depending on the model and doesn’t pressure your ears the way in-ear and on-ear headphones do.

Because there is very little air circulation in or out of these headphones, you may sweat while wearing them. As a result, keep this in mind. This is also the heaviest pair of headphones in the group. This might not be the best solution for you if you’re searching for something more portable.

In-Ear

In-ear headphones are the most popular among the general population, and they have instantly become the go-to models on the market due to their simplicity of use and portability. Aside from that, these headphones travel further into your ear canal, allowing them to rest inside your ears. They go closer to your eardrums than other types of headphones, which normally rest on the ridge of your ears.

This type of design also allows for very minimal sound leakage. This implies that the sound is preserved in your ear while outside sounds are blocked. In-ear headphones usually come with a silicone or foam ear tip for added comfort and protection.

On-Ear

When compared to over-ear headphones, which are substantially better at filtering out external disturbances if noise cancellation is necessary, on-ear headphones are similar to open-back headphones in that they allow some sound from the surroundings to enter and exit.

This sort of headset is usually fairly comfy and does not make you sweat as much as over-ear headphones do. Because they sit on your ears, choosing a pair that is both comfortable and doesn’t put too much strain on your ears is essential. Otherwise, you may develop ear fatigue as a result of using them for long periods of time.

Noise Cancellation

Headphones that can isolate and reduce unwanted sound, whether active or passive, are quite popular. While some of you are being thoughtful of roommates or neighbors who may be disturbed by your television, others of you may desire headphones so you can enjoy your movie or show without being distracted by outside noises.

Not only that, but noise-canceling headphones benefit commuters, travelers, and even other sorts of professionals since they allow you to concentrate on what counts most: the sound. So, if you’re going to use your headphones for commuting or work aside from watching TV, make sure they have good ANC capabilities.

Additionally, certain headphones on the market may include an Adaptive Noise Reduction function. The noise-canceling intensity of your headphones is adjusted depending on the level of ambient noise. Take note, however, that this function is more commonly found in higher-end brands and models. If you have the money to spare, I highly suggest getting one that offers this.

Battery Life

The battery life of your Bluetooth headphones is another important fact to consider and something that shouldn’t be overlooked. When you’re doing a whole marathon of your favorite shows and films, the last thing you want is for your headphones to die in the middle of an important scene and cut your binge-watching short so you can charge the device.

To avoid such situations from happening, make sure that your device is always fully charged before the marathon and get a pair of headphones that has a beefy battery life to last you throughout the day.

Usage Outside Of TV Watching

Last but not least thing to consider is whether you’re going to exclusively use your Bluetooth headphones for watching TV or if you’re planning to use them for other activities as well. Such activities can include your usual music listening sessions, working out, gaming, or even for work and commuting to your office.

If that is the case, then finding a pair of Bluetooth headphones that can hold up well to those activities is pretty important. Now you’ll also have to consider the weight and size of your headphones for portability and comfort of use, opt for longer battery life so you won’t have to worry about plugging in your device when you’re outdoors, and so on and so on. Whichever activity it is, it’s best to not overlook this factor.

Conclusion

So that makes up our top picks for the best Bluetooth headphones for TV this 2021. To sum it all up, it’s best not to get engrossed in the smallest of details. There is no such thing as the “perfect” pair of headphones for viewing movies or TV shows. Everything comes down to your own personal criteria and what you’re looking to use it for. Personal preference, budget, media content, home setting, and listening habits will all play a role in your decision, so it’s best to prioritize which are most important to you and you can go from there.

Do you already own any of the listed headphones above? Did your favorite make it into our list? Let me know in the comments section below if you have any suggestions, questions, or insights to share regarding our list of the best Bluetooth headphones for TV this 2021. I would love to hear all your thoughts!

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