Wireless headphones are

The presence of the headset is practically not felt, the freedom of movement is not limited, so TWS headphones are popular among athletes.

How to connect wireless Bluetooth headphones to the phone: step by step guide

Can't connect wireless headphones to your phone? Not sure how to choose? Here's a mini guide to types of headphones and how to connect them.

What all wireless headphones have in common is that they connect via Bluetooth. The key difference between the gadgets is the form factor, which determines how the headphones are worn.

In-canal .

These headphones are placed inside the ear canal using silicone or rubber ear cushions. Some models can be attached to the ear with special earpieces or paddles.

In-canal headphones, popularly nicknamed earplugs, also come in the form of individual modules or with a silicone jumper, which also houses the remote control. The second option is convenient because you can hang the gadget around your neck and not worry about losing your headphones. Most in-ear headphones on a single charge lasts from 2.5 to 7 hours.

Earbuds

These headphones are placed in the concha of the ear and fixed with it. They do not have additional fixation methods. The battery life of in-ear earphones is similar to the in-canal models.

Earbuds

The cups of such ear-cups are placed on top of the concha, covering it completely or partly. The cups are connected to the headband. The cups hold higher capacity batteries, so on a single charge overhead models can work

Full-size .

The cups of these headphones completely cover the ear cups and therefore create a good noise isolation. Like over-the-ear models, full-size models can last about two days on a single charge.

How to prepare headphones for connection

Before you connect your new headphones to your phone, you need to prepare both devices.

On the iPhone, the preparation process looks similar. You need to turn on Bluetooth.

Wireless: wireless, but not quite

Wireless headphones like Wireless don't have a wire to connect to an audio source. They transmit the signal through the air, specifically through Bluetooth. In fact, it is impossible to call such a headset completely wireless, because there is still a wire between the headphones themselves. That is why the term True Wireless was later coined to label truly wireless headphones and headsets.

Wireless headphones can be in over-the-ear or earbud form factor.

True Wireless (TWS): True Wireless

Such an accessory has no external wires at all, and each earpiece is represented as a separate item. Data transmission from the audio source is via Bluetooth (sometimes at 2.4 GHz).

TWS headphones are available only as "earplugs", with each pair having a main and an additional earpiece. The main one has a module to receive the signal from the sound source. It also transmits data to the additional earpiece.

In India, headphones that can work 150 hours without charging were released

If the goal is to listen to music, the choice is more difficult, because there is no universal parameter that is responsible for sound quality in the characteristics. For example, the headphones can have a lot of power, but it won't do you any good if the device is hoarse and doesn't produce clear bass. It is the combination of different parameters and settings that matters.

If possible, before deciding to buy, try to listen to demo samples in stores.

• The operating time on a single charge. The parameter is approximate, on average quality modern models lasts for 4-6 hours of work without interruption and recharging.
• Operating time when charging with the case. Usually the manufacturer indicates the total time, but it depends on the number of recharges. Over time, the battery capacity decreases slightly. For example, if just headphones work 7 hours, and with a case – 28 hours, you can focus on three or four charging cycles, then you will need an outlet.
• Frequency Range. This is the minimum and maximum values of the sound frequency that the headphones are capable of playing. The lower the first indicator, the better the quality of bass, that is, bass. The higher the second indicator, the clearer the high sounds will be. An excellent indicator in 2023 is from 5 to 21,000 Hz.
• Power. It is common to refer to the power rating in mW – this is not the maximum volume, but an average parameter for average sound at any volume level. The standard in 2023 is at least 10 mW.
• Sensitivity. A value that shows the maximum volume of a device with quality sound. For headphones to work loudly and without wheezing, it is worth focusing on the level of 100 dB.

The best wireless headphones

Xiaomi Mi Air 2 Pro.

Xiaomi Mi Air 2 Pro headphones are an alternative to Apple's Pro model, only several times cheaper

Frequency range: No data from the manufacturer

Power: No manufacturer's data

Sensitivity: no manufacturer's data

Xiaomi has one of the most inexpensive headphones with active noise cancelling. In other words, the device reads ambient sound and makes it so that it is not perceived by human hearing. Of course, there are other Chinese TWS with the claimed noise reduction, but Xiaomi managed to make this function at a high level.

Memo on characteristics

Bluetooth version

The newest models support the 5.2 standard, but you can still find headphones with Bluetooth version 4.0 on sale. As the technology advances, data transfer speeds increase and power consumption decreases, but the version of the standard itself has no effect on sound. It was stated that version 5.2 will bring support for LE Audio with a new codec LC3 to replace the standard SBC, but at the moment this codec is still not available. The important thing is that it will use the version that is supported by both the headphones and the phone.

Codecs

Similar to the Bluetooth version, it is important for the codec to work that not only the headphones but also the phone support it. The standard codec for all Bluetooth devices as of early 2022 is still SBC. It is commonly berated, but with the right implementation it can sound good. For iPhone users, only one more advanced alternative is available: AAC. Android smartphones also support AAC, but performance with this codec differs from device to device and can be worse than with SBC. Instead, Android users have support for the aptX family of codecs, LDAC from Sony and a number of less popular codecs with higher bitrates. However, all of them are still lossy – "with losses". Qualcomm has announced work on aptX Lossless, but it is not clear when it will be available and in which devices.

We advise to read our detailed breakdown of this topic. And here we will limit ourselves to a brief summary: "Wireless technology should not be the main factor when choosing an audio device. Don't automatically write off headphones with not the latest version of Bluetooth or with only the SBC codec – they may sound better or be more comfortable than their competitors.

Operating Time / Battery

The longer the runtime, the less often you need to remember to charge your device. A larger case accommodates larger batteries, so full-size headphones tend to have a higher battery life. At the same time, TWS headphones come with charging cases that increase their battery life. Modern models increasingly have fast and wireless charging features to increase usability.

Types of wireless headphones

True Wireless Headphones

"Totally wireless" in-ear headphones are the youngest and most popular type of Bluetooth headset for a smartphone today. The market has overflowed with models in its few years of existence. All the better for the buyer – today interesting models can also be found in the budget segment.

The main difference between TWS headphones is the presence of a case, which is used not only for storage, but also for recharging. That is, you will always have a Power Bank for the headphones. Different models have 2-4 full charges from the case.

Plug-in Bluetooth headphones with cord

Insertable Bluetooth headphones connected with a wire have become less popular with the advent of TWS models, but they do have their perks. They tend to be cheaper, and are often chosen by those who are afraid of losing their TWS headphones while actively exercising or walking.

Full-size wireless headphones.

Big cups and ear cushions, big radiators and big sound. Full-size (and over-the-ear) headphones often come with a cable with which they can be used like regular wired headphones if the battery runs out. The Urbanista Los Angeles doesn't have that option, but they don't need to – they're the world's first headphones that can be recharged by the sun or any artificial light source! The other two models are flagship models with ANC from European masters of hi-fi sound.

Operation time / battery

At first glance, everything is obvious – the longer operating time, the less you need to remember to charge the device and the less chance that you suddenly find yourself without the sound you hoped for.

Of course, a higher capacity battery can be placed in larger models. Thus, full-size wireless headphones today boast a runtime of up to 100 hours without recharging, while wireless in-canal headphones will last up to 10 hours on average. In the case of the TWS models, the runtime can be as little as 3-6 hours. However, there are a couple of nuances that are worth paying attention to:

• Full-size and overhead headphones often come with a cable with which they can be used as normal wired ones if the battery runs out.
• True Wireless headphones come with special cases that are used not only for storage, but also for recharging. That is, you will always have a Power Bank for the headphones. In different models from the case you can get another 2-4 full charging. Thus, they can work for dozens of hours, but with small pauses to recharge in the case.

Additional features / what else to look for

• Headset. The vast majority of wireless headphones have the ability to answer calls, but the quality of communication can vary depending on the location and number of microphones and additional technology (noise cancelling).
• Active Noise Cancellation System. Through external microphones drowns out ambient noise, allowing you to listen to music at a lower volume in noisy environments. In addition, there is also a reverse mode ("transparent"), which allows external sound to pass through, turning the headphones from closed to open (can be useful when training in the city, when riding a bike, etc.). Active "noise modulation" – it is modern and convenient, but for its work will have to pay for the battery, which "lasts" a few hours less.
• Controls. Can be touch, push-button or combined – pay attention to its convenience and the functions available for control.
• A smartphone app with control and customization options.
• Voice Assistant / voice control support (using Google Assistant, Siri or Alexa).
• Quick connection to the source. One-touch connection is possible with NFC support for both the headphones and the device. Users of Apple products have received similar functionality from the headphones with the Apple W1 chip – at the moment it is found only in their new models.
• Sweat/moisture protection – common on sports models, but increasingly common on regular models as well. It is specified in the IPXX format. Read our in-depth article on the subject: "IP dust and moisture protection grades: a detailed guide".
• Built-in memory / MP3 player – Occasionally found in both full-size models and compact sports models (e.g. waterproof headphone players for swimming).

Top 3 wireless headphones.

We selected three different gadget models that have quality features for their price.

JBL Tune 215 TWS.

In-channel headphones from a brand that has established itself in the market. The price ranges from 3000 to 5000 rubles from different sellers.

A bonus will be a choice between the classic white and black, as well as soft purple and lettuce.

Minus: rather large ear cushions can fall out. It is better to buy interchangeable ones.

Sony WH-1000XM5.

Full-size headphones also from a well-known brand. Stylish, lightweight, high sound quality.

• Active noise cancellation;
• foldable design;
• intuitive touch and voice control;
• simultaneous connection to two devices;
• 30-40 hours of work without recharging.

The price at different sellers ranges from 30,000 to 45,000 rubles. You can consider the last generation Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones for about 20,000 rubles.

JBL Tune 500BT.

Overhead model with good basic functionality for its price: about 5000 rubles.

We hope our tips will help you choose wireless headphones that will add comfort to your work or daily life.

All information about prices and partners is current at the time of publication of this article. Current Halva partner stores

Disadvantages

One of the main drawbacks of wireless headphones is the fact that large obstructions between the transmitter and the headset can lead to poor sound quality, even if you're in range. Such obstacles can either be walls or other electronics using the same technology or frequency. In theory, all wireless headphones are susceptible to interference.

Another problem is the increased sensitivity of wireless headsets to physical shocks. Typical headphones can work fine after being dropped, but this is often not the case with wireless headsets. Built-in electronic circuitry makes wireless ones less resistant to drops.

Advantages

The biggest advantage of Bluetooth headsets is the ability to be cord-free, and hands-free, for maximum mobility. How many times have the cables from your headphones snagged on something, pulling your headphones away from your ears, or have you pulled them out of your pocket only to find the cable jack?

No cables means no fussing and unraveling the knots they make in your pocket. A wireless headset is a great device for people who run or exercise to music. In many cases, losing wires means using less battery. Bluetooth uses low-power signals, and the technology requires very little power.

Losing cables doesn't mean that sound quality has to be lost, but as with any set of headphones, this is only true if you do your homework and find a high-quality product. Many of the wireless headsets have bass boosting technology and noise isolating design so you can feel the beat while listening to music.

TIP! When Bluetooth headphones were released, the sound was uncomfortable and many people said they wouldn't last. Today, you can get the same sound quality with a wireless headset as you would with a corded headset.

A wireless headset is sophisticated and stylish. Many of them have a sporty design because they hold firmly in place when you work out or run long distances. Even casual listeners can enjoy the sleek design of any style of wireless headphones.

Wireless doesn't always mean it's more expensive. Many of the Bluetooth headphones cost less than 490 rubles, and some even come with a Bluetooth transmitter in case your phone or MP3 player is not Bluetooth compatible. You can spend a sum of money like you would for any electronic device, but even inexpensive wireless headphones are comparable in quality.

How Wireless Headphones Work

The principle of how a headset works is to receive a signal from a source using several wireless technologies. Depending on this, models are connected to different devices.

1. Radio communication is a stable connection. The range of such models can be more than 10 m. The channel is used to transmit sound at frequencies up to 2.4 GHz. The products are not portable because they require a transmitter to be installed. Such a design is inconvenient to carry around.
2. Bluetooth is a universal data transmission technology. The frequency is usually 2.5 GHz. Headphones can connect through this protocol to any gadget that has this module. Such devices are stable and do not lose connection. Products are easy to take with you on the road. Special coding allows you to protect data from interception.
3. Infrared products work on the principle of signal transmission with high-frequency pulsation. The products have a built-in receiver that can amplify the received audio signal. Models are not suitable for mobile listening to music, as the data transmission module requires a 220 V connection.

Wireless bluetooth headphones are very easy to connect to gadgets. This requires that the signal LED on the product is lit. It indicates that it is ready for pairing. Next you should search for available connections on the handheld device. To make the connection stable, the headphones are added to the trusted devices. After that, the sound will be broadcast to the headset and not to the external speakers.

What comes with the headphones

Manufacturers are willing to offer models with different characteristics. The standard package of wireless headphones includes a list of necessary devices and documentation necessary for the stable operation of the device. But the original and most popular models are not designed for android.

Important. It is required to use only original chargers and additional accessories for the headphones. Unsuitable products can disable the product.

• Wireless headphones. In the case of full-size models, the products are compactly folded and securely packed. The headset itself can be equipped with a built-in microphone.
• Protective case for proper storage of the headset. It is most often made of safety plastic. You can also find a special case on a fabric basis.
• The charger, which is necessary to maintain the battery life of headphones. Depending on the type of model there are different devices for charging. Often a cable with a connector that connects to a power supply or computer via USB is used.
• Specialized documentation should be in every set. The manufacturer must provide its products with the rules of operation, as well as instructions for use. In order to preserve the warranty, the store receipt is enclosed. In the case of a breakdown, you can use a brochure with a list of service centers.
• A CD with the necessary software that you may need when connecting to a desktop computer.
• In-canal products can be fitted with earmolds of different sizes. This allows you to find the right fit for your needs.

A comparison of the pros and cons of audio transmission technology

Each connection method has its own features, pros and cons.

IR port	Radio waves	Bluetooth	Wi-Fi
Prevalence	–	+	+	+
Compact	+	–	+	–
Signal range	Up to 10 m	Up to 150 m	Up to 10 m	Up to 90 m
Multiple headset connectivity	–	–	–	+
Sound quality	poor	medium	good	good
Occurrence of interference with obstacles	+	–	+	–

Recommendations for technology selection

When choosing a device regarding audio transmission technology, you need to consider the purpose of using the accessory. For example, at home, headphones can be constantly connected via Wi-Fi signal, but when listening to music in public places, this type of connection quickly drains the phone, and the network may not always be available. So you should choose a model based on your activity.

For normal use with your phone

How wireless headphones for your phone work? For this, it is better to buy models that connect via Bluetooth. All devices are equipped with this module, so there will be no problems with the connection and you do not need additional accessories for connection.

This technology is especially suitable because of the frequent being away from home. You can get to a place where the connection on your phone is lost or deteriorates. As a result, you won't be able to listen to music. They are great for travel or long distance trips. That's the advantage of Bluetooth models over Wi-Fi devices.

If necessary, the headphones can also be connected to any other device – a computer or TV, if there is a special transmitter with a conventional audio jack.

When selecting devices with Bluetooth module, look at its version. Ideally, it should be the latest version, which is currently 5.0. The newer the version, the better the connection, the better the sound quality, and the less charge will be spent on signal transmissions. This means that the charge on your headphones and smartphone or tablet will be slower.[/info-box]

It is important that the same version is installed on the transmitting device. If it is lower – the sound quality will be limited to the capabilities of the older version, even if the accessories support the latter.

If sound quality is important to you, look at Bluetooth models that support aptX technology. It provides better sounding music. But in order for this technology to work fully, the smartphone you are using must also support it.

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