As you might already know, noise-canceling headphones are the crème of the crop in the world of headphones. They’re highly sought after because they’re able to filter out any unwanted external noise and allow you to enjoy your audio content without distractions. However, the best wireless noise-canceling headphones from the most popular and well-known brands like Bose and Sony to name a few tend to be quite pricy. Not everyone is willing to drop a couple of hundred dollars on a pair of headphones, which is where the Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 comes in. To find out more about this budget-friendly Bluetooth headphones, just keep scrolling to read our review below.
For its price, the Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 Wireless (2016) is one of the best Bluetooth headphones we’ve seen on the market. While many Bluetooth headphones have difficulties with audio lag and latency, this particular pair supports the aptX-LL codec.
This enables these headphones to deliver low latency and a steady connection, especially when used for viewing TV. However, in order to fully exploit this function, you’ll need a Bluetooth adapter or transmitter that supports the codec.
The original Plantronics BackBeat Pro garnered a lot of high praise when it was first released. They weren’t perfect, but they featured a lot of cool features, sounded excellent, and had decent active noise cancellation (ANC). Plantronics, on the other hand, has enhanced the BackBeat Pro 2 by keeping what works and improving what doesn’t, such as its size and weight.
The sound profile of the BackBeat Pro 2 is well-balanced, with just enough bass and thumps to ensure that you hear the colorful sound effects as well as every beat of your favorite programs or music. With 30 hours of continuous playback, you won’t be disappointed when it comes to battery life. If you’re planning on binge-watching a TV show or a certain podcast, these are the headphones for you.
Overall, the Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 offers exceptional battery life, superb sound quality, and effective active noise cancellation for a reasonable price. They are undoubtedly amazing value for money, despite not having the best noise-canceling on the market. If you’re still on the fence, let’s dive into this device’s specifics below.
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
Color: Black and Tan
What’s In The Box
Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 Headphones
3.5mm Simple Inline Cable
USB to Micro-USB Charge Cable
Zipper Soft Pouch
Safety Booklet
Quick Start Guide
Warranty Insert
Check Out The Product Preview Of The BackBeat Pro 2 Below.
Thanks to the large protein leather pads and matching synthetic leather-topped headband, it’s easy to tell that the Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 is a pair of full-size headphones up close and even from a few feet away.
You’ll either love or loathe the Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 design because of its relatively unique and somewhat awkward nature. Personally, I find the design appealing and fresh. The headphones have a dark brown color scheme and unfortunately, that’s the only option available. This particular choice of color can result in dividing opinions regarding aesthetics but to each their own.
Then there’s the faux wood accent, which some may find cheap and out of place, but it does at least make the headphones stand out from other, more generic-looking Bluetooth headphones on the market. And for the effort alone, Plantronics gets a couple of bonus points from me.
Build
In comparison to its predecessor, the OG BackBeat Pro, this second iteration is significantly thinner and sleeker. The hefty control wheels on either side have been eliminated, and the over-ear earcups are roughly two-thirds the size of the original. Playback and volume controls are now incorporated into the rear of the left earcup, which has a textured ring surrounding a big, smooth circle around a smaller circle.
The huge circle may be clicked left or right to jump ahead or backward in a track, while the ring navigates the volume. Meanwhile, the play/pause button is in the center of the circle. The earcups also include a slew of sensors that identify when you’re using the headphones, the music will automatically stop when you take them off and your incoming calls will be answered when you put them on.
Active noise cancellation is controlled by a tiny three-way toggle switch on the side of the left earcup, which may be switched on, deactivated, or set into an Open Listening mode.
Furthermore, a round button on the rear of the right earcup is used to answer and stop calls and a power switch while a microphone mute button is located on the left side of the right earcup. At the bottom of the right earcup is a micro USB connector for charging with the provided cable, as well as a 3.5mm port if you’d like to use the BackBeat Pro 2 as a wired headphone.
Comfortability
While the design is questionable for some of you, the comfortability this pair of headphones provide is what makes the BackBeat Pro 2 shine. To put it simply, these headphones are a joy to wear. They have a nice, elongated shape for the earpads that will cover most ears than the original BackBeat Pro.
The fake leather earpads are velvety and well-cushioned, and the headband has just enough cushioning to make the headphones comfortable to use for extended periods of time. If you’re someone who often experiences headaches or fatigue when wearing over-ear headphones, then you’ll certainly have none of that with the BackBeat Pro 2 and will enjoy using this pair for hours on end.
Audio Quality
The first BackBeat Pro headphones had a pleasant, slightly bass-heavy sound characteristic when they first came out. A lot of people actually liked this and lucky for us, Plantronics has carried over this particular sound profile to the BackBeat Pro 2.
Certain audiophiles might be a little disappointed by the overpowering bass the BackBeat Pro 2 provides but for fellow bass heads out there, you will really appreciate the bass-heavy sound profile of these headphones. If you’d like to lessen the bass, I found that using the BackBeat Pro 2 in wired mode significantly reduces the bass too.
Furthermore, you’ll also be relieved to learn that ANC still works pretty well in wired mode when listening to music. This means if you don’t mind dealing with a cord for a while, you can save a few hours on the battery life. Because a little extra bass helps filter out distracting external or ambient noise, we can see why Plantronics chose a bass-heavy sound signature.
Our Least Favorite Things
Noise-Cancellation Is Not The Best
For its price, you can’t really complain. While some of you might argue that other headphone models from different manufacturers and brands offer better noise-cancellation capabilities, the BackBeat Pro 2 isn’t half-bad. The noise cancellation in the BackBeat PRO 2 isn’t nearly as good as higher-end models, but it does a decent job of dampening street and subway sounds.
Whereas other headphones effectively eliminate external and ambient noises, the Backbeat Pro 2 only cuts it in half. In other words, it was less intrusive of the listening experience, but you can definitely still hear some of it while using these headphones.
In A Nutshell
Now that we have finished discussing the things we like and dislike about the Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2, here is a narrowed-down list of the pros and cons of this particular pair of Bluetooth headphones.
Pros
Beefy battery life that can last you throughout the day.
Comfortable to wear even after extended periods of time.
Solid sound performance.
Great value for the money.
Cons
Noise cancelation isn’t the best.
Our Final Verdict
All in all, the Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 headphones are a significant improvement over the original model. Apart from better noise-canceling technology, they’re smaller, sleeker, and sound better. You may argue that there are better alternatives on the market (which is correct) but in terms of price and value? This is a great option for anyone looking for a good set of Bluetooth headphones that’s comfy and lasts throughout the day without spending a lot of money.
Do you already own the Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2? How was the experience for you? Was our review helpful? Let me know in the comments section below if you have any suggestions, questions, or insights to share regarding our review of the Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2. I would love to hear all your thoughts!
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.
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.
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.
Pros
Long battery life.
Terrific active noise cancellation (ANC).
Sleek design.
Amazing sound quality.
Cons
A little pricy than most of the Bluetooth headphones in this list.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Pros
Amazing battery life that can last you for more than a day.
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!
When Apple made the decision to remove the headphone jack from their iPhone models years ago, most headphone brands and manufacturers started putting their efforts into making some of the best Bluetooth earphones compatible with the iPhone. That’s why I highly recommend making the jump to Bluetooth earphones as well. Because they’re just that good. So if you’re on the hunt for your next pair of earbuds, here’s a simple guide on how to buy Bluetooth headphones for your iPhone in 2021.
Wireless earbuds, or sometimes known as Bluetooth headphones, are extremely popular right now. They’ve been in the market for some time now but it took a while for people to actually appreciate these wireless devices. Especially not until Apple started removing the headphone jacks from their products. Then people really started investing in the best Bluetooth headphones they can get their hands on.
Due to the increasing demand for wireless earphones, every manufacturer and brand in the headphone industry is now hurrying to put out their own models in the market. Meanwhile, those who don’t have a product ready to sell are purchasing generic (and oftentimes subpar) models so their company doesn’t miss out on the hype train.
With that being said, it’s very important to know that not all wireless headphones are made equal. You’re going to find some excellent products on the market, but you should also expect to encounter some genuinely awful ones. But if you do your due research before clicking the check out button, you’ll easily find out which headphone models are to be avoided.
Then after that, perhaps, you’ll find a pair that is perfectly suited for your needs. It may seem like a lot of trouble for just a pair of earbuds but these are things we use every day and making sure that we invest in the right ones are pretty worth it.
If you’ve never owned a pair of true wireless earphones before, then now is the time! However, if you’re still on the fence about it and would need a bit more convincing whether these devices are worth it, I made a short list below including a few very important reasons why you should make the switch.
1. No More Pesky Wires
Obviously, the main reason why you should invest in a pair of Bluetooth headphones is that fact that they’re completely wireless. Don’t get me wrong, though. I don’t mind wired earphones. In fact, I have held onto my wired pair for so long because I found them reliable. Plus, I don’t have to worry about losing one of them in case they fall of their charging cases.
However, ever since I invested in true wireless earphones, nothing has been the same. The flexibility that going wireless provides is just utterly unrivaled. This is especially the case if you like listening to audio content while doing chores, running errands, or even working out.
Not to mention, you also no longer would have to deal with knotted cords or worry about getting tangled in them while you do your cardio. Just think of the times where you accidentally yank the wire of your earphones and resulted to knocking your phone off. Well, with wireless earbuds, that’s no longer a concern. The list could go on and on. But I think you already get the idea.
2. Sound Performance Have Improved So Much
Gone are the days when Bluetooth connections between your smartphone and your earbuds would constantly drop out. During those times, pairing up both devices was such a nightmare and a huge hassle.
On top of that, before these things became everywhere, Bluetooth earphones cost a fortune! Playback was also unstable and the audio performance was the musical equivalent of the old tin can telephone you fashioned as a kid. But fortunately for you, times have changed and so did technology.
Nowadays, pairing up your earbuds and your smartphone is as simple as pressing a button or even opening the lid of your AirPods’ case. Bluetooth 5.0 has also arrived, making your connectivity faster and increasing the distance you can get from your device. To put it simply, wireless connections are reliable and stable as ever now. Also, almost every device is Bluetooth supported now.
While some of you might argue that the audio quality from wired headphones is still superior, there’s nothing wrong with that. You can still definitely keep your wired earbuds. But keep in mind that every day, the difference in quality between them narrows.
3. Wireless Is The Future
As much as I hate to admit, wireless is the future. In probably a handful of years, it’s not impossible if we reach a time wherein headphone jacks are completely obsolete. So to prevent yourself from missing out or being late to the party, it’s best to invest in a pair of Bluetooth headphones as soon as you can.
Hoping that my statement above has convinced you to ditch your traditional wired headphones, here are some friendly tips and reminders on what to consider when you’re finally shopping for your new pair of Bluetooth headphones.
Cost
When it comes to the pricing of Bluetooth headphones, these devices can either be really, really cheap or very expensive. And that’s actually a good thing. Because that means you’re sure to find a pair of headphones that will be well within your budget.
With that in mind, you are bound to find some very inexpensive pairs of headphones in the market. But I would seriously recommend avoiding them at all cost. I’m not saying you should pay half a thousand dollars on a single pair but wireless earphones that are of decent quality do no come cheap.
For starters, these Bluetooth earbuds need a high quality Bluetooth chip from companies like Qualcomm. Additionally, they would also need excellent high-density batteries to make sure that they can last for a handful of hours without their charging cases. Quality doesn’t come cheap, so be prepared to spend a little more to acquire something really decent.
If you do buy generic wireless headphones, they might not last as long or have plenty of issues that will just end up with you spending more just to get them fixed or even purchasing a new pair altogether.
Form Factor
Wireless headphones, just like their corded counterparts, come in all shapes and sizes. To help you out in deciding which is suitable for you, you can read below the most basic types of headphones you’ll surely encounter in the market.
Over-Ear
Over-ear headphones are the best option for noise cancellation due to their snug design. They offer a great capacity for limiting noise leakage, allowing you to hear what you want while allowing outside noise to escape. They’re also very comfortable to wear (though this varies by model) and don’t compress your ears like on-ear headphones do.
Because there is very little air circulation in or out of these headphones, you may sweat while wearing them. So keep this in mind. This type of headphones is also the heaviest out of the bunch. In case you’re looking for something more portable, this might not be the ideal option for you.
In-Ear
In-ear headphones are the most popular among the general public, and because of their ease of use and portability, they have quickly become the go-to models on the market. Apart from that, these headphones also go deeper into your ear canal to rest inside of your ears. They get a little close to your eardrums than other types of headphones which usually just sit outside on the ridge of your ears.
There is also extremely little sound leaking with this kind of design. This means that the sound is maintained in your ear and outside noises are kept out. A silicone or foam ear tip is generally included with in-ear headphones for enhanced comfort and protection.
In comparison to the over-ear headphones, which is significantly better at filtering out external noises if sound isolation is required, the on-ear design is comparable to open-back headphones in that it allows some sound from the surroundings to enter and escape.
This type of headphones are typically quite comfortable doesn’t cause you to sweat as much as their over-ear counterparts. Because they rest on your ears, it’s also critical to select a pair that’s both comfortable and doesn’t put too much pressure on your ears. Or else, you might experience some ear fatigue while you’re using them.
Noise Cancellation
Headphones that are able to isolate and decrease unwanted sound, whether active or passive, are in high demand. After all, who wants to hear the loud noises of cars and other distracting exterior noises while listening to music? Noise-canceling headphones are beneficial to commuters, travelers, and even other types of workers since they allow you to focus on what matters most: the sound.
However, it’s important to remember that some models offer both of these advantages to the customer, while others favor one over the other. With over-ear and on-ear styles, passive and active noise reduction work together to thoroughly immerse you in your favorite tunes.
Additionally, some headphones feature Adaptive Noise Reduction, which adjusts the noise cancellation intensity based on the degree of ambient noise. Though these are normally only seen in higher-end headphones.
Battery Life
The battery life of your headphones is an important factor to consider when purchasing your next pair. The music you’re listening to should last at least as long as the activity you’re doing right now. When you’re fully involved in your favorite rock music, no one wants to stop in the middle of a head bang.
That said, take attention to how long they last between charges and how easy and quick it is to charge them when you’re not using them while you’re using them. When used with their specific charging case, most of today’s Bluetooth headphones provide up to 24 hours of listening time, and they should last you at least a few hours without it.
Some headphones are water and sweat resistant to differing degrees. Water and sweat resistance is a common feature among sports and training headphones, but it is also useful for regular music listeners. A few drips of water ruining your headphones is the last thing you want.
So if you’re the type to work out a lot and listen to music at the same time, think about how much protection your headphones provide against water and sweat. The industry uses the Ingress Protection (IP) rating to measure how sweat-proof or water-proof a product is.
Conclusion
So that makes up our buyer’s guide for this week. These are very simple tips and reasons on why it’s worth investing on a pair of Bluetooth headphones. With so many excellent offers available in the headphone market, you can get a nice pair that won’t cost an arm and leg. Another nice aspect of this is that you don’t have to get rid of your old wired earbuds entirely. Whenever it’s convenient, you can use them and switch over to the wireless ones when needed.
Have you already bought your own Bluetooth headphones for your iPhone? Was our buyer’s guide on how to buy Bluetooth headphones helpful? Let me know in the comments section below if you have any suggestions, questions, or insights to share regarding this article. I would love to hear all your thoughts!
If you’ve been an AirPods user for some time now, then you most likely already know that it doesn’t have the most secure fit around the ears. It can be quite tricky when using them in the gym for some workout sessions. Thankfully for you, the Beats Powerbeats Pro is here. It costs a lot more than your standard AirPods but provides a longer battery life and better noise isolation. If you’re looking to retire from your old pair of headphones, this might be perfect for you. But is it worth the splurge? Let’s find out in our review below.
In recent months, there has been a slew of new competitors in the true wireless earbuds market, but only a few have actually addressed some of the more serious issues that come with the disconnected earbud design. How do you keep the earphones in your ear if the fit isn’t great, for example? If you have ill-fitting earphones, you’ll notice that they fall out frequently, which can be pretty annoying.
However, the Powerbeats Pro’s ear hooks accomplish exactly what other manufacturers failed to oversee. These ear hooks ease pressure on your ear canal while also keeping your headphones in place in case the seal breaks. As a result, not only do these earphones provide security but they also provide better comfort compared to other kinds of earphones in the market.
With that being said, how well the Powerbeats Pro settles on your ears will significantly affect how much you’ll like and enjoy using these earbuds. If one of the four included silicon tips fit your ears comfortably, without a doubt, you’ll love using these. Not to mention, you might just feel justified in dropping a few hundred dollars on them.
Furthermore, Beats claims to be using new upgraded piston drivers that are supposedly for eliminating distortion. In turn, this will allow your Powerbeats Pro to have a richer and much more cleaner sound with significantly tighter bass. Though keep in mind that with this sort of noise-isolating headphones, a good seal is required to maximize sound quality.
So if the tips aren’t firmly or properly lodged in your ear canals, expect to lose some bass as well as a noticeable decline in overall sound quality. This is something important to consider if you’re someone who likes to use your earphones while you’re commuting, moving around a lot, or doing fitness activities.
The Powerbeats Pro also has a feature in common with the Apple AirPods: the H1 chip. Meaning, Apple users will also enjoy the benefit of seamless connectivity and quick-pairing features the same as Android users.
Features & Specifications
Dimensions: 10 x 7.87 x 11.02 inches
Item Weight: 0.64 ounces
Brand: Beats
Form Factor: In Ear
Battery Life: Up to 9 hours of listening time, 24 hours if combined with pocket-sized charging case.
Bluetooth Range: 30 meters.
Water Resistant: Yes.
Noise Cancellation: Yes.
Wireless: True Wireless.
Colors: Black, Ivory, Cloud Pink, Glacier Blue, Navy, Lava Red, and Spring Yellow.
Warranty: Up to one year from date of purchase.
What’s in the box?
Power Beats Pro totally wireless earphones
Charging case
Ear tips with four size options
Lightning to USB-A charging cable
Quick start guide
Warranty card
Check Out The Preview For The Powerbeats Pro Below.
There’s a lot to appreciate about the new Powerbeats Pro in terms of appearance. It features a sporty vibe while yet being functional enough to use outside of the gym. Not to mention, they’re now also completely wireless and you get a lot of color options to choose from. So whether you’re using these for professional purposes or want fun and bold colors to accentuate your look, Beats has you covered.
As I have also mentioned recently, the Powerbeats Pro, like the second-generation AirPods, employs Apple’s new H1 chip. This allows both earphones to connect to your phone individually.
On top of that, because neither earbud takes precedence over the other, they are always paired while also letting you use one earphone while the other charges. Because of the H1 chip, the Powerbeats Pro also connects to your iPhone or Apple device pretty quickly.
The Powerbeats Pro has a center playback control button, as well as volume controls, located on each of the two earbuds. As a result, you can easily manage your music playlist with whichever hand is free, which is a pretty convenient function in my opinion. But for iOS users, voice command for Siri is also available. You can just utter the wake words and the command and Siri will do the work for you.
Once the earbuds are placed on your ears, you’ll also notice that even if you can’t see the controls, they’re not difficult to locate. This might be a nifty feature for you if you’re going to be using these when exercising or when you’re running errands.
Feel for the B logo by running your fingertips over the earpiece, long-press if you want to engage Siri, and press once to pause or resume playback, click twice to skip a track, then three times to go back to the previous track.
Comfortability & Fit
When it comes to comfortability and fit, it helps a lot that the Powerbeats Pro is quite comfortable. Both in terms of how it fits in and around the ear as well as how it feels while listening to music.
If you’ve been using true wireless earphones for quite some time now, I’m sure you have experienced at some point some in-ear pressure whenever you’re using them. I call this ear fatigue. They’re really uncomfortable and it’s a sure way to disrupt your music-listening sessions.
However, because of the Powerbeats Pro ergonomic design, that uncomfortable pressure simply doesn’t exist. This is due to a front chamber micro-laser barometer venting hole, which decreases ear pressure and improves bass response. Though honestly, I don’t think these headphones need any more help in the bass department.
Another element contributing to the outstanding fit is the earbuds’ narrow nozzle, which is smaller than many other true wireless earbuds you’ll find on the market. And with four different sizes of ear tips included in the box, you’re sure to find one that fits your ears perfectly.
Though I did notice one small flaw from the Powerbeats Pro. They’re not the most “minimalistic” style of headphones and will surely capture some attention to your ears. But at the end of the day, this comes down to your personal preference. Some of you might like this design, some might not.
Audio Quality
A huge complaint throughout the years with Beats headphones is that the audio quality is excessively bass-heavy. Some of you might like this particular attribute but it can be quite too much for the majority. However, Beats made sure that this will no longer be an issue with the Powerbeats Pro.
Other wireless Bluetooth earbuds in the market allow you to customize and tailor the sound quality to your preference through the use of their dedicated apps. This kind of feature is actually quite handy but Powerbeats Pro, on the other hand, makes every song sound precisely tuned without the need for manual software settings.
Full noise cancellation isn’t available with the Powerbeats, but you wouldn’t expect that from a pair of sport earbuds. Although you may be able to hear traffic and passing vehicles, this model provides excellent noise isolation, which can be quite beneficial in some situations.
Our Least Favorite Things
Bulky Charging Case
There’s not a lot of bag things to say about the Powerbeats Pro, but a constant flaw that is always brought up with these headphones is the fact that the charging case is so bulky. They’re not the most portable. Meaning, they’re not very pocket-friendly. So if you’re going to bring these outdoors, the charging case will most likely end up in your bag.
So if you’re going to be working out in a gym, you’ll have to stash the charging case in your locker. This can be a little inconvenient if you need a quick charge for some extra battery life.
In A Nutshell
Now that we have finished discussing the things we liked and disliked about the Beats Powerbeats Pro, here is a narrowed-down list of the good and the bad with this pair of true wireless earphones.
Pros
Excellent pair of headphones for Apple/iOS users.
Great sound quality with rich bass levels.
Terrific noise-isolating capabilities.
Easy set-up and connectivity.
Impressive battery life.
Comfortable to wear and has a secure fit.
Cons
Charging case is not the lightest to carry around.
Doesn’t use a USB-C cable for charging.
Expensive.
Our Final Verdict
Overall, while the Beats Powerbeats Pro is an impressive pair of headphones, they aren’t the best wireless headphones available. I wouldn’t say that these are worth burning a hole in your wallet for but if you have the budget, then by all means. But in any case, there are more affordable options in the market that performs just as well.
However, if you’re an Apple fan looking for a pair of sporty headphones to wear during your workouts, these are the ideal option thanks to the little details like the ear hooks, pressure-reducing micro-laser barometer venting hole, longer battery life, and higher sound quality.
Do you already own the Beats Powerbeats Pro? Was our review helpful? Let me know in the comments section below if you have any suggestions, questions, or insights to share. I would love to hear all your thoughts!
The Apple AirPods Pro was originally released way back in late 2019. But up to this day, these pair of earbuds still remain to be the best earphones Apple has to offer. When compared to its predecessor, the OG AirPods, the Pro now offers active noise cancellation as well as an overall improvement in its design. In addition to that, the AirPods Pro has also met other upgrades this year that just make the experience a lot better. So without further ado, let’s dive into our review of the AirPods Pro.
Not many people were surprised to learn that the AirPods Pro is one of the best earbuds for iPhone users, as well as one of the finest-sounding headphones available in the market in general. The AirPods Pro, of course, are the best headphones to use with your iPhone thanks to its H1 chip that enables you to easily pair the earphones with other Apple devices seamlessly.
They also come with an iOS-only settings UI that supports ANC navigation and button mapping. Apart from that, despite the AirPods Pro being released a few years ago, this device still gets plenty of upgrades from Apple. This means your user experience is only getting better and better. Since the iOS 15 update last September, the earphones have received a flood of additional features.
Such features include Conversation Boost, which helps you hear face-to-face conversations a lot more clearly, the option to announce notifications with Siri, integration with Apple’s Find My App, and a whole lot more.
Apple also updated the software on the AirPods Pro. They now feature Spatial Audio, which is Apple’s own version of Dolby’s Atmos technology. However, unlike traditional surround which requires multiple speakers, Atmos places sound in 3D. In turn, this allows you to get the same sound quality with just a pair of headphones.
When it comes to fit and comfortability, these premium earbuds’ comfortable and lightweight design is also stable enough for mild to moderate physical activities.
As for sound quality, the lack of bass in the AirPods Pro doesn’t make this any less great. It might not be enough for hardcore bass enthusiasts, but the overall audio quality is still top-notch and is well-suited for a variety of audio content. It will definitely satisfy the majority of its users.
Features & Specifications
Dimensions: 0.94 x 0.86 x 1.22 inches
Item Weight: 0.18 Ounces
Brand: Apple
Battery Life: Over 5 hours with ANC and up to 24 hours with the charging case.
When the first iteration of the AirPods was released years ago, many users complained about the uncomfortable fit and the overall design. Thankfully, you no longer have to worry about that with the AirPods Pro. The new design of the Pro variant makes them significantly less likely to fall out from your ears than their predecessors.
Not to mention, the Pro version’s additional microphones now provide effective noise cancellation which you’ll notice a lot more when you’re commuting or in busier and noisier environments. But if you still prefer to be aware of your surroundings, the handy Transparency mode lets you hear external sounds to an ideal degree.
Aside from the redesign, the AirPods Pro is incredibly light. They’re so lightweight that it’s difficult to know they’re there once they’ve been inserted into the ears. Personally, this is a huge plus in terms of comfort. If you often experience fatigue around your ears from wearing earbuds for too long, you are less likely to encounter that with wearing the AirPods Pro.
Furthermore, the stems of the Pro variant are substantially much shorter than the ones on the original AirPods. While you were able to tap the body of the regular AirPods to skip music or activate Siri, the Pro’s new fit makes this a less comfortable experience for you.
Each AirPods Pro also has a ‘capacitive force sensor’ in the stem, where tapping this area activates noise-canceling and Transparency mode, as well as navigating your music playlist. If you have been previously using the regular AirPods, you might take a bit of time getting used to this new function, so keep that in mind.
IPX4 Rating
One of the best things about the AirPods Pro is its IPX4 rating. This means that if you ever get caught in the rain while you’re outdoors, you won’t have to worry about these earbuds getting ruined. Of course, you can’t fully drench these earphones in water or go swimming with them, but they can certainly survive a good amount of sweat whenever you’re working out or the occasional accidental splashes of water.
Sound Quality & ANC
Aside from the improvements in design, the first thing you’ll notice about the AirPods Pro once you put them on is that they have greater bass than the original AirPods. Their new noise-isolating design and new drivers are largely responsible for their increased bass.
When the first AirPods came out, they sounded well in quiet environments, but they struggled a lot when exposed to noisier environments due to their open design. Because of this, the bass frequencies get drowned out among the external noise.
Fortunately for you, the AirPods Pro has addressed this problem and has now a more efficient noise cancellation thanks to its secure ear tips. As a result, the combination of the tips’ seal and active noise cancellation features make the overall sound quality considerably better when you’re in busier areas like the city streets.
The AirPods Pro also has two microphones, enabling for both internal and external sound analysis. One uses an algorithm to evaluate the audio quality in your ear to see if the music you’re listening to is sounding as it should. While the other eliminates background noise. This results in a significantly better listening experience.
Also, the active noise cancellation on the AirPods Pro is also quite noticeable once you turn them on. But keep in mind that it won’t completely block out all other sounds around you. For example, if you’re in an area with music playing in the background, a small amount may still get through you might still hear the external music. However, when strolling down the street, the AirPods Pro was pretty effective in blocking out any noises from vehicles rushing by.
Spatial Audio
One of my favorite things about the AirPods Pro is that it now comes with Spatial Audio. This particular firmware update now allows Dolby Atmos’ immersive audio to these premium pair of earbuds. The Spatial Audio feature works in 5.1, 7.1, and Dolby Atmos, which places sound all around you within a virtual sphere.
To put it simply, this means that if you’re watching a Dolby Atmos film that shows a plane flying overhead, it will sound as if the plane is actually passing above you. Not to mention, the built-in accelerometers and gyroscopes inside Apple’s earbuds and headphones are used by Spatial Audio to track the position of your head as well as the position of your Apple device.
A streaming provider that supports 5.1, 7.1, or Atmos, as well as an Apple device running iOS 14 or iPadOS 14, is required. Stereo content can also be converted to Spatial Audio if the streaming service has a stereo spatialization plugin installed.
Our Least Favorite Things
No Sound Customization Capabilities
Aside from the obvious high-end price the AirPods Pro is asking for, one of the biggest drawbacks I found with these earbuds is that there are no sound modification capabilities, such as an EQ or presets of any kind. This kind of feature would have allowed you to tailor the sound of the headphones to your preferences.
It may not be a huge deal-breaker for some of you, but I just personally find it pretty disappointing especially when you’re paying this kind of premium price for a pair of headphones.
In A Nutshell
Now that we have discussed the things we liked and disliked about the AirPods Pro, here is the narrowed-down list of the good and the bad with these earbuds.
Pros
Excellent ANC features.
Comfortable fit.
Works well with Apple devices.
Nice, clean design.
Well-built.
Cons
Expensive
No sound customization features.
Battery life could be better.
Our Final Verdict
Overall, the Apple AirPods Pro is a pretty expensive pair of earbuds. However, they’re amazingly well-built with excellent ANC capabilities as well as better-than-average sound quality. They also have little yet significant design modifications that really upgrade your user experiences when compared to the regular AirPods and other true wireless headphones out there.
Fans of Apple products will surely be satisfied with the quality and the seamless compatibility with other Apple devices. But whether they’re worth the splurge is completely up to you.
Do you already own the Apple AirPods Pro? Was our review helpful? Let me know in the comments section below if you have any questions, suggestions, or insights to share. I would love to hear all your thoughts.
Without a doubt, Apple‘s iPhones are one of the best smartphones you can get your hands on in the market right now. So it comes as no surprise why millions of people around the world line up every year in front of Apple stores just to get their latest releases. With thousands of apps, a user-friendly design, a great ecosystem, and an incredible camera, who could blame them?
On top of that, its incredible sound quality is one of its outstanding characteristics as well. Ever since Apple removed the headphone jack from their iPhones, the demand for wireless Bluetooth headphones has significantly increased. With that said, now is a fantastic opportunity to invest in a pair of headphones that will do your iPhone justice. Fortunately for you, you have an array of options available. So for today, we’ll be giving you our top picks for the best Bluetooth headphones for your iPhone this 2021.
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Our Top Recommendations
1. Apple AirPods Pro
Overview
It comes as no surprise how the Apple AirPods Pro sits on the top of our list. Obviously, the AirPods Pro is the ideal pair of headphones to use with your iPhone because they are designed specifically to work seamlessly with Apple’s technology.
To put it more specifically, these earphones include an H1 chip. This allows you to pair the earphones with other Apple devices without difficulty. They also include an iOS-only settings interface that includes button mapping as well as ANC navigation.
Apart from its compatibility with Apple’s ecosystem, the comfortable and lightweight fit of these premium headphones is also stable enough for mild to moderate physical activity. In terms of sound, the AirPods Pro has a pretty decent audio quality that is well-suited for a variety of audio content, despite the somewhat lack of low bass.
Apple also recently upgraded the software on the AirPods Pro. Now, they include Spatial Audio. Which is Apple’s take on Dolby’s Atmos technology. However, unlike standard surround sound that requires several speakers, Atmos inserts sounds in 3D space. This allows you to experience the same quality through a pair of these headphones.
Unfortunately, the AirPods Pro doesn’t have any sound modification capabilities, such as an EQ or presets. This kind of feature would have allowed you to tailor the sound of the headphones to your preferences. Which I find pretty disappointing especially when you’re paying this kind of premium price for a pair of headphones.
Their built-in microphone also seems to have a poor recording quality, making your speech seem thin and muffled. Nonetheless, most Apple users who are looking for an iOS-compatible pair of headphones for their iPhones will still be pretty satisfied by the AirPods Pro’s overall quality.
The 2nd generation of the Apple AirPods is a pretty solid option if you want a pair of wireless earphones that are more comfortable to wear compared to the AirPods Pro. While their overall sound quality isn’t as great as the Pro’s, their hard, one-size-fits-all shape means they don’t fit as snugly in your ear, which may be a more pleasant experience for some.
Just like the AirPods Pro, however, this model is similarly well-made, and they also include an H1 chip that makes pairing the earphones with Apple devices a breeze. In terms of battery life, you’re getting about 5 hours of continuous playtime and the charging case it comes in with can provide you with about five charge cycles.
If you’re looking for a pair of headphones with terrific noise cancellation, however, these might not be the earphones for you. These open-back headphones do not isolate you from external noises such as the sound of vehicles honking or passing by. So this is something important to take note of if you’re considering this particular model.
Apart from ANC capabilities, there’s not a lot of significant difference between the 2nd gen AirPods and the AirPods Pro. If you’re looking for amazing ANC functions and better sound quality, go for the latter. But if you’re on a budget or you prefer prioritizing comfort over sound, the AirPods (2nd gen) is the one for you.
Features & Specifications
Dimensions: 0.65 x 0.71 x 1.59 inches
Item Weight: 3.5 Ounces
Brand: Apple
Battery Life: 5 hours of listening time, more than 24 hours listening time with the charging case.
How well the Powerbeats Pro, Beats‘ first completely wireless headphones, fit your ears will affect how much you enjoy using them. If one of the four included silicon tips fit your ears comfortably and snugly, you’ll have a lot of fun with these headphones and feel justified in spending a few hundred dollars on them.
Beats claims to be using new upgraded piston drivers that are believed to eliminate distortion. As a result, the Powerbeats Pro offers a richer, cleaner sound with much tighter bass. With that being said, a solid seal is necessary for maximizing sound quality with these types of noise-isolating headphones.
As a result, if the tips aren’t properly lodged in your ear canals, you can lose some bass and hear a notable drop in sound quality especially if you’re planning to use this while you’re constantly moving around or doing workout activities.
Furthermore, the Powerbeats Pro shares a feature with the Apple Airpods: the new H1 processor, which enables Bluetooth 5. This means that Apple users will have access to the same fast-pairing features Android users have enjoyed.
On top of that, you’ll also have the always-on Siri feature, which will allow you to activate Siri without pressing a button. Instead, like with other Apple products, you may simply say “Hi Siri” to activate this feature. Apart from that, you may also ask Siri to change the volume level of your audio, and Apple Music subscribers can ask Siri to either skip or go back to a certain song as much as they like.
The Sony WF-1000XM4 delivers one of the most dynamic and balanced sounding wireless in-ear headphones we’ve seen in the market. The bass notes on these particular pair of earphones are quite crisp and ooze substance with a lot of attention to detail, while the vocals are polished and wonderfully lifelike.
To put it simply, the WF-1000XM4 creates music with such a feeling of melody that it’s contagious and keeps you wanting more. And owing to the class-leading eight-hour battery life, you’ll have plenty of time to be entertained which also makes these earphones ideal for longer periods of use every day.
When it comes to comfortability, these headphones are also quite pleasant to wear even after long hours of continuous listening. The ear tips also provide excellent noise isolation, keeping annoying external sounds at bay. At the same time, Sony’s Integrated Processor V1 provides excellent noise cancellation features for you.
On top of these amazing features, the Sony WF-1000XM4 will not disappoint you if you enjoy wearing your headphones while you’re out and about. The Sony WF-1000XM4’s IPX4 water resistance rating means you won’t have to worry if it rains lightly or you get accidentally splashed with water.
If you have a more active lifestyle, wearing these headphones while working out will pose no problem at all. The foam ear tips save the day once more by giving an extra snug fit in your ears. Finally, these headphones also offer Quick Attention and Speak-To-Chat modes, both of which allow you to talk without taking out your headphones.
Features & Specifications
Dimensions: 3.7 x 2.56 x 3.39 inches
Item Weight: 1.44 ounces
Brand: Sony
Battery Life: 8 hours of listening time, 24 hours with the charging case.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option for a pair of headphones to sync with your iPhone, then perhaps you might want to consider the Panasonic RZ-S500W. The RZ-S500W, which won an award in 2021, is Panasonic’s first attempt at making completely wireless earbuds with noise-cancellation features. But not only did they succeed in doing so, but these headphones are also fantastic value for your money.
So what exactly makes these pair of headphones so good? Well, for starters, the noise-canceling technology in the RZ-S500W is complemented by an Ambient Mode. There are dual mics integrated for better quality voice calls, as well as 6.5 hours of continuous listening time which can be extended up to 13 hours with the charging case. Not only that but 70 minutes of playback can also be achieved through a quick 15-minute USB-C charge.
Furthermore, one of my favorite things about these headphones is their intuitive and snappy touch controls, letting you easily control and navigate your music depending on your preference as well as the ability to toggle between different noise-canceling modes.
If you’re worried about the fit, just know that you’ll be getting five different sizes of ear tips to help you find the right fit. So if comfortability is an issue, you can easily swap out ear tips to find which one works best for you.
With that being said, the noise cancellation and sound quality on the RZ-S500W are both exceptional. There’s a lot of richness throughout the frequency range and plenty of agility at the low end. The music is crisp, and there is a lot of refinement on display, which is a huge steal at this price point.
Features & Specifications
Dimensions: 6.65 x 4.35 x 2.35 inches
Item Weight: 0.7 ounces
Brand: Panasonic
Battery Life: 6.5 hours of listening time, 13 hours with the charging case.
Apple’s first-ever over-ear headphones certainly aren’t the cheapest in the market. But they’re undoubtedly on the right track in terms of sound quality. In fact, the AirPods Max’s level of detail and spaciousness places these headphones among the best headphones for your iPhone with just that alone. This is probably already obvious since this is an Apple product after all.
With that in mind, the AirPods Max will work with non-Apple gadgets too. However, you will be missing out on most of their distinctive features that really set these headphones apart from their competition. Specifically, the cinematic Spatial Audio and even Dolby Atmos content.
But the question remains, are they worth spending a handful of hundred dollars for? Well, the answer is completely up to you. Personally, if you’re a hardcore Apple fan, you like listening to a lot of music, and you’re eyeing over-ear headphones, then that might justify dropping that much money on this device. If not, then there might be less costly options out there you might want to look at first.
Another thing to consider is that Apple devices are usually well-built. The AirPods Max is no different. But the design may be a hit-or-miss for some of you. Not to mention, these pair of headphones are just a little bit heavier than your usual over-ear headphones.
Features & Specifications
Dimensions: 9.43 x 9.57 x 3.15 inches
Item Weight: 13.6 ounces
Brand: Apple
Battery Life: Up to 20 hours of listening time.
Form Factor: Over Ear
Water Resistant: Yes
Noise Cancellation: Yes
Wireless: Yes
Colors: Space Gray, Green, Pink, Silver, and Sky Blue.
This premium pair of earphones from Sennheiser is ideal for your iPhone if money is no object to you. Apart from its well-designed exterior, the Momentum True Wireless 2 is also comfortable to wear on your ears even after long periods of listening sessions.
The noise cancellation is also excellent at making sure you’re playtime is free from ambient noises, giving some of the finest models in this list a run for their money. Not to mention, the touch controls on these headphones are also easy to use and quite intuitive. Controlling and navigating your music playlist or podcasts and other functions are completely fuss-free.
When it comes to battery life, the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2 doesn’t disappoint either. You’ll be getting up to 7 hours of continuous playback on a single charge. Plus, the charging case offers three extra charges for you as well.
Overall, the design, sound quality, and features of the Momentum True Wireless 2 are pretty great. The highs and lows are balanced and controlled, but the dynamics aren’t lost. They’re a touch more expensive than other iPhone-compatible headphones, but you won’t regret it if you do decide to get this pair of headphones instead.
Features & Specifications
Dimensions: 6.69 x 4.53 x 1.77 inches
Item Weight: 5.6 ounces
Brand: Sennheiser
Battery Life: 7 hours on a single charge, charging case offers three additional charges.
Form Factor: In Ear
Water Resistant: Yes
Noise Cancellation: Yes
Wireless: True Wireless
Colors: Black, White
Warranty: 2 years.
Pros
Competitive battery life.
Terrific touch controls.
Excellent sound quality.
Cons
Expensive
Rating: 9.5 out of 10
Where Can I Buy The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 2?
The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds are without a doubt among the best true wireless earphones available that are compatible with your iPhone. The majority of Bose’s noise-canceling headphones have been on- and over-ear models, but the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds, while being true wireless earphones, didn’t disappoint.
They’re small and light, and you’ll be able to listen for several hours at a time with them. The QuietComfort earbuds from Bose are really pleasant to use for a typical workout and have a high-quality feel to them. On a single charge, the battery lasts six hours, and the charging case adds two extra charges for a total of 18 hours.
Furthermore, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds are both sweat and weather-resistant, making them great for both indoor and outdoor activities. The flexibility of the companion software to personalize some features and controls, as well as change the excellent noise-cancellation, adds to the ease of use. Not to mention, the touch controls for volume adjustment are pretty nice features too.
In addition, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds give a fantastic sense of dynamism, strength, and composure. When playing bass notes, the QuietComfort seems full, with a full-bodied sound that can go incredibly deep. Which I’m sure the bass heads reading this will surely appreciate.
Overall, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds are excellent all-around, with excellent musicality and excellent noise cancellation to block out annoying external sounds. They’re up to the task against any opponent at this level, with the one major negative being the expensive price.
Apart from excellent audio quality, there are also other things you need to consider when shopping for your next pair of Bluetooth headphones. If you’re unsure whether a pair of headphones is the perfect fit for you and your iPhone, below are some things to keep in mind to help you make a more informed purchasing decision.
Form Factor
As you may already know, headphones come in all shapes and sizes. Over-ear, in-ear, and on-ear headphones are just some of the basic and most used types in the market. To help you out in deciding which is suitable for you, I’ll be discussing the different types of headphones to make less shopping for your next pair less stressful.
Over-Ear
To focus on sound isolation, over-ear headphones go on the top of the head and “over”. Because they create an intimate environment between you and the sound you’re listening to, this form of headphones is the best for noise suppression. They have a high capacity for reducing noise leakage, which keeps the sound you’re listening to in while allowing outside noise to escape.
Open-backed over-ear headphone variants are also available, allowing them to breathe and allow sound in and out. Closed-back headphones, on the other hand, are typically favored for their potential passive noise cancellation, isolation, and high-quality sound capacity.
They are extremely comfy (though this varies depending on the model) and do not compress your ears as some on-ear headphones do. Because very little air circulates in or out, be aware that you might sweat while you use this kind of headphones.
These are also the heaviest type of headphones available. So if you’re wanting to save room or looking for something more portable, these might not be the best option. Though some of you, on the other hand, might prefer a bigger pair of headphones and aim for that snug fit.
In-Ear
In-ear headphones are the most popular type of headphone model available right now. These are most preferred by the general public and due to their ease of use and extreme portability, this easily became one of the fastest-growing styles in the market. These in-ear devices have seen a steady rise in popularity and were also quick to improve in terms of sound performance in order to compete with their larger predecessors such as the on-ear and over-ear headphones.
These earbuds go a little deeper into your canal to rest inside of your ears and get a little closer to those precious eardrums than other types of headphones that rest on the outside ridge of your ears.
This design also has very low sound leakage. Meaning the sound stays in your ear and ambient noises are kept out. In-ear headphones also usually contain a silicone or foam ear tip for added comfort and protection. This ear tip completely covers the ear canal, allowing the music from the headphones to pass directly into your ear while blocking out external sounds.
In-ear headphones are also ideal for individuals who enjoy listening to music, especially while traveling, running errands, or hitting the gym.
On-Ear
Honestly, there was a little bit of confusion when I first knew about on-ear and over-ear headphones. They both seem pretty similar and it’s understandable if you’re confused between the two too.
The on-ear design is similar to open-back headphones in that it enables some sound from the surroundings to enter and exit, as opposed to the over-the-ear version, which is far better at filtering out external noises if sound isolation is a requirement.
This type of headset is also usually very comfy and does not make you sweat as much as some over-the-ear models do. Because they rest on your ears, it’s crucial to find a pair that’s comfortable and doesn’t put too much pressure on them, or else you might feel some fatigue around your head.
Noise Cancellation
Headphones that can isolate and reduce unwanted sound, whether it be active or passive, are pretty sought after in the market. After all, who wants to hear the blaring noises of vehicles and other unwanted external sounds to disrupt your music listening, right? Commuters, travelers, and even other kinds of professionals benefit from noise-canceling headphones because they allow you to focus on what matters most: the sound.
Passive noise canceling is mostly achieved through the physical architecture of the headphone unit. In-ear devices cancel out ambient noise by sealing the ear canal, whereas over-ear models eliminate noise by covering the entire ear. Active noise-canceling uses specific frequencies to cancel out extraneous sound for a more thorough form of ambient noise reduction.
However, it’s best to keep in mind that certain models both deploy these features for the user, while some tend to only have one over the other. Passive and active noise cancellation work together to completely immerse you in your favorite audio, especially with over-ear and on-ear styles.
Furthermore, some headphones provide Adaptive Noise Reduction, which adjusts the intensity of noise cancellation to the level of ambient noise. Though these are usually found in more high-end models of headphones.
Battery Life
Your headphones’ battery life is an important feature that shouldn’t be overlooked when shopping for your next pair. The music you’re listening to should last longer than the activity you’re currently doing. No one wants to stop mid-headbang when you’re fully immersed in your favorite rock music.
With that being said, when you’re using them, pay attention to how long they last between charges and how easy and quick it is to charge them when you’re not using them. Most of today’s top Bluetooth headphones provide up to 24 hours of listening time when used with their dedicated charging case, and they should last you at least a good handful of hours without it.
Water & Sweat Resistance
Some headphones are resistant to water and perspiration to varying degrees. Water and sweat resistance is a feature that is particularly popular among sports and workout headphones, but it is also a beneficial feature for everyday music listeners. The last thing you want is a few drops of water completely ruining your headphones.
As a result, consider the level of protection provided by headphones and whether you require water-resistant or waterproof headphones. The Ingress Protection (IP) rating is used in the industry to determine how sweat-proof or water-proof a product is.
Conclusion
Now that we’ve finally reached the conclusion of our list, I hope our article was helpful enough and you were able to get an idea of which pair of headphones is best suited for your iPhone. With so many options available in the market, you’re sure to find one ideal for you and your needs.
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 your iPhone this 2021. I would love to hear all your thoughts!
