Best Wireless Headphones in the UK

Review & Comparison, Last Update January 25, 2024
Wherever you go, listening to music can make your travelling much more enjoyable. Get yourself a wireless headband and never leave your favourite playlist behind. We've reviewed the best 5 wireless headphones available on offer so that you can choose those that suit your needs and lifestyle best. ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Type
Wireless Technology
Sensitivity
Frequency Range
Material
Battery Life
Range
Warranty
 
PROS

The adaptive transparency lets the outside sounds in while reducing the ambient noise that is too loud. At the same time, the personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking surrounds you with excellent sound.

CONS

The shiny plastic finish attracts dust.

OUR VERDICT

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are in-ear headphones with an improved H2 chip, which makes music playback even better, and the power saving level is even higher. The MagSafe charging case now has a lanyard loop and can be safely charged with Apple Watch wireless charging.

detailed parameters
Type

Open-back, In-ear

Wireless Technology

Bluetooth 5.3

Sensitivity

109 dB

Frequency Range

5 Hz - 21 kHz

Material

Plastic, Silicone

Battery Life

Up to 30 hours

Range

Up to 33 feet (~10 m)

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The unique HD processor QN1 automatically controls the noise reduction mechanism according to the environment. At the same time, you can always adjust the settings in order to suppress the noise, but hear the important sounds.

CONS

When you're moving between different locations, a tone sounds, which is rather annoying.

OUR VERDICT

The Sony WH-1000XM4 are full-size wireless headphones that will come in handy on a trip or simply while walking around the city. The LDAC (96 kHz sampling, 990 Kbps) technology allows you to transfer 3 times more data than the regular Bluetooth, so you can enjoy high-resolution sound.

detailed parameters
Type

Closed-back, On-ear

Wireless Technology

Bluetooth 5.0, NFC

Sensitivity

105 dB

Frequency Range

4 Hz - 40 kHz

Material

Plastic, Soft leatherette-covered ear pads

Battery Life

Up to 30 hours

Range

Up to 33 feet (~10 m)

Warranty

1 year

PROS

Thanks to the advanced technology of noise reduction CVC 8.0, these earbuds improve the quality of voice transmission and remove unwanted noise. This can make your phone calls much clearer.

CONS

The lid on the case feels a little loose.

OUR VERDICT

With the Anker Soundcore Life P2 True, you will be able to enjoy clear sound with no interference. The set offers 5 different sizes of ear tips to ensure a comfortable fit for every user. Additionally, they boast long autonomous work and have a 10-minute quick charge feature.

detailed parameters
Type

Open-back, In-ear

Wireless Technology

Bluetooth 5.0

Sensitivity

92 dB

Frequency Range

20 Hz - 20 kHz

Material

Plastic, Silicone

Battery Life

Up to 40 hours

Range

Up to 33 feet (~10 m)

Warranty

18 months

PROS

With the touch of a button, you can launch the voice assistant to play music or contact someone on your list. Thanks to the built-in microphone, you can easily communicate with family and friends in the hands-free mode.

CONS

You may experience a slight discomfort when wearing the headphones for a long time period, as the headband doesn't have padding.

OUR VERDICT

The Sony WH-CH510v are compact and lightweight headphones that can last quite a long time on battery power. Also, after the 10-minute quick charge, the headphones will work as much as 90 minutes. This model is ideal for people who lead an active lifestyle.

detailed parameters
Type

Closed-back, On-ear

Wireless Technology

Bluetooth 5.0

Sensitivity

~ 100 dB

Frequency Range

20 Hz - 20 kHz

Material

Plastic, Soft leatherette-covered ear pads

Battery Life

Up to 35 hours

Range

Up to 33 feet (~10 m)

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The audio from the Grammy Award-winning AKG, as well as 12mm drivers, a bass duct for airflow, and other well-thought-out parts of the headphone design provide the realistic and deep sound.

CONS

The battery life is relatively small.

OUR VERDICT

The Samsung Galaxy earbuds are bean-shaped headphones with an original streamlined shape that will perfectly complement your look. They sit snugly and naturally in the ears without getting in the way all day long, while the air vents reduce occlusion for surround sound.

detailed parameters
Type

Open-back, On-ear

Wireless Technology

Bluetooth 5.0

Sensitivity

~ 92 dB

Frequency Range

~ 20 Hz - 20 kHz

Material

Plastic, Silicone

Battery Life

Up to 21 hours

Range

Up to 33 feet (~10 m)

Warranty

1 year

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Apple AirPods Pro

Top Noise Cancelling

Want the actually smart wireless headphones? The most obvious answer is to get the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd gen). Equipped with strong noise cancellation and head tracking, they will take listening to music or podcasts to an entirely new level of quality.

Tired of constant background noise? The AirPods Pro 2 know how to help. The active noise cancellation means that only the loud unwanted sounds will be blocked by the headphones. No cotton wool effect; the noise is simply removed without making you uncomfortable. Forget about the street ambience or nearby TVs – and enjoy the music wherever you may roam.

The AirPods Pro 2 come with the personalized spatial audio. What this means is that you’ll hear the sound all around you (think the Dolby Surround system), all thanks to the advanced dynamic head tracking. You wouldn’t believe how full and natural the sound is in these headphones.

The multiple ear tips range from XS to L to accommodate for any customer. Be sure that the headphones will fit you perfectly – and won’t feel uncomfortable in your ears. Opt for the user-centric AirPods Pro 2 instead of cheaper and less impressive models.

Review of Apple AirPods Pro 2nd generation

Quality Sound to a ‘T’

These impressive headphones reward you with the top sound quality thanks to the boosted H2 chip. The audio is very detailed, with competent separation, and the bass is present but not heavy on your ears. Use the touch control and swipe to tweak the volume. Pressing will let you start the playback – and start or finish a phone call. Finally, pressing and holding stands for switching between the various listening modes.

The AirPods Pro 2 are sweat- and water-resistant, which is great news for workout fans. Don them on and enjoy your playlists while shaping up your body. The only design issue is the dust-attracting plastic finish of the headphones.

This unit comes with a MagSafe charging case but can be also powered up from the wireless Apple Watch charger. The case is complete with a lanyard loop and a speaker; as for the battery life, you can listen to music for as many as up to 30 hours.

In short, the Apple AirPods Pro 2 are pure gold for audiophiles and active lifestyle people that want maximum comfort on the go. These headphones make an amazing holiday present for those who are dear to you.

Apple AirPods Pro 2nd generation in the use

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B0BDJ37NF5

 

Sony WH-1000XM4

Quality Sound, Any Location

The smart and versatile Sony WH-1000XM4 wireless headphones allow you to enjoy music without the noise and seamlessly switch to conversations. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this product so amazing.

First off, the noise cancellation system. These headphones boast the HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1. What it does is blocking out the background noise, such as a busy street, public transport, or a nearby TV. Enjoy the clear and pristine sound without the muffling effect – and control what you cancel in the app. This way, you’ll hear the train station announcements, for instance.

Another amazing feature of these headphones is saving different locations for EQ and noise cancelling settings. Home, office, or a bus stop, you can tweak the sound to fit your unique needs. The downside, however, is that a tone will sound when you move between locations. While it’s rather annoying, you can, luckily, turn it off.

The headphones come in different colours to match your personal style. Modern and sleek, they look good on your head and will surely attract admiring glances.

Review of Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones

Speak-to-Chat

Met a friend while listening to music? No need to pull the headphones off – or reach out for a button. Simply start talking, and the sound will stop automatically; yes, the Sony headphones are this level of “smart”. The only problem is that you can’t sing along when this mode is on.

The LDAC technology transmits as much as 3 times more data than the conventional Bluetooth. What does this mean for your listening experience? Now you can listen to the real hi-res audio (96 kHz sampling, 990 Kbps). Don’t compromise on sound quality – and enjoy music the way it was meant to be enjoyed. Audiophiles and musicians will surely appreciate the sound tech in these headphones.

So, how do they sound like? The audio is clean and deep, very detailed, and gives you the amazing separation. Even the low quality tracks will sound great with Sony. The bass could be a little too much for some users, but others will love it, on the contrary.

The battery life for this set is up to 30 hours – and around 5 hours on a short 10-minute charge.

Summing up, the Sony wireless headphones are extra-convenient, support the top quality sound, and can be used in different locations.

Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones in the use

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B08C7KG5LP

 

Anker Soundcore Life P2

4 Microphones for Quality Calls

Those who take the quality of sound very seriously but don’t want to overpay may want to take a closer look at the Anker Soundcore Life P2 True Wireless Earbuds. These buds are a great alternative to Airpods which can make listening to music and talking on the phone more pleasant and spare you from wires for complete freedom of movement.

First thing first, these earbuds come equipped with as many as 4 microphones (2 on each earbud). This design ensures the clear and loud sounding of your voice and no interference. On top of that, the mics recognise and automatically filter out strange noises.

Moving on, the earbuds deliver the impeccable quality of music as well. They are fitted with the Life P2’s graphene drivers that make the sound extremely realistic and even provide the effect of the presence letting you immerse in your music completely. Thanks to that, you can also use these buds for watching films or some presentations and be sure nothing important will slip.

The model boasts CVC 8.0 Noise Reduction technology that removes all the ambient noise around you and allows you to hear only the sound of your music. Plus, it helps improve the quality of voice transmission.

Review of Anker Soundcore Life P2 True Wireless Earbuds | cVc 8.0 Noise Reduction (USB-C, 40H Playtime, IPX7)

Quick Charge Feature

To make these earbuds more comfortable to wear, the manufacturer provides 5 pairs of ear tips with the purchase. So, you should be able to find a perfect size and stay active for the whole day without the risk of losing the earphones.

In terms of battery performance, these completely wireless earphones are no slouch either. The battery is capacious enough to work for 7 hours after a full charge, and you can extend this time for up to 40 hours with the fully charged case (it comes with a USB charger included in a set). What is more, this model has a very convenient quick charge feature. It will be especially handy if you forget to charge your earbuds in advance: after just 10 minutes of charging you will be able to listen to music for about 1 hour.

Last but not least, you can also use these wireless earphones as mono and stereo devices. All you need to do is choose the right mode in the Bluetooth connectivity menu. By the way, this set is fitted with the Bluetooth 5.0 version and has a frequency range of 20 Hz - 20 kHz.

Summing up, if you don’t want to overpay but still want to enjoy high-quality sound, we suggest getting the Anker Soundcore Life P2 True Wireless Earbuds. Fitted with advanced drivers and microphones, they can become irreplaceable for listening to music and making phone calls on-the-go.

Anker Soundcore Life P2 True Wireless Earbuds | cVc 8.0 Noise Reduction (USB-C, 40H Playtime, IPX7) in the use

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price £39.99
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B07SJR6HL3

 

Sony WH-CH510

Rich in Features

The Sony wireless headset puts “S” into “Smart” with the top sound quality and amazing hi-tech features. Great for audiophiles and regular customers, it gives you the freedom to listen, talk, and use a voice assistant on the go.

To start with, these headphones can easily connect to the voice assistant on your smartphone. This means you can play music tracks or call your contacts without using hands and pressing buttons. The feature is ideal for business people and active lifestyle users who need to do things a.s.a.p.

But that’s not all; the Sony headset comes with a built-in microphone for hands-free voice calls. Absolutely no need to switch between the headset and smartphone; start or answer calls without all the extra fuss. If there are user-centric headphones, this model definitely makes the list.

The Sony set is compact and portable, so you can carry it around easily. The only design flaw is that you may feel a slight discomfort when wearing it for a long period of time. This is due to the headband having no padding. On the other hand, the ear cup padding is quite nice.

Review of Sony WH-CH510 Wireless Bluetooth Headphones with Mic

Impressive Battery Life

This wireless headset gives you the amazing, up to 35 hours, battery duration. Enjoy your favourite artists or podcasts for as much as you want, all through the day or night. Perfect for small trips or nature hikes, the headphones can last for an impressive time amount on a single charge. And did you know you can power them up for 10 minutes – and get up to 90 minutes of playback? Well, now you certainly do.

Great, but what about the sound quality? No problems here, as the audio is crisp and clean, and the noise cancellation lives up to your expectations. Less ambience and more quality music; that’s what this headset is all about.

You can easily connect the headphones to your smartphone or tablet using Bluetooth. This unit gives you a stable connection with an up to 33 ft. (~10 m) range. No annoying lags or “blackouts” when you’re using the Sony.

Finally, you can always pick one out of 3 colours (black/blue/white) to match your style and look gorgeous in these headphones.

Overall, the Sony wireless headset is powerful and practical, combining the upscale sound with a modern set of features.

Sony WH-CH510 Wireless Bluetooth Headphones with Mic in the use

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B07WD58H6R

 

Samsung Galaxy Buds

Boost Your Look

Can you have small but really stylish earbuds? Of course, if you choose the Samsung Galaxy wireless earphones. Jewellery-like and ultra-modern, they give you quality sound without compromising on your comfort.

First off, these earbuds are very good-looking and will perfectly blend with your style. Shiny and slim, they come in multiple colours, which means you can wear them with different outfits. Besides, they don’t go too deep into your ears; even if you wear them all day, you won’t feel the typical discomfort.

Next on, we have the air vents that reduce the occlusion for surround sound. Never worry, your headphones won’t give out the flat and boring audio – that is, if you have the Samsung Galaxy unit. Enjoy the fully natural sound of music without carrying a full headset on your head.

Did you also know that these earbuds can cancel noise on the pro level? Thanks to the Active Noise Cancellation tech, you can focus on the music – and not the city traffic or somebody’s TV sports match. Yes, the bigger headphones do it better, but they are big and not as portable as these compact units.

Review of Samsung Galaxy Buds Live Wireless Earphones

Upscale Sound Quality

The Samsung Galaxy earbuds mean quality sound, always. The Grammy Award-winning AKG technology provides the audio that’s crisp and clear, natural-sounding, and with the right amount of bass. In fact, this set can come surprisingly close to the full-size models – but without being bulky. Perfect for the hot summer or sports, it gives you a smooth listening experience.

The design perks of these earbuds include the 12 mm drivers and a bass duct for airflow. If you had doubts about the realistic sound of this set, this should clear the matter. Even the lower quality tracks won’t disappoint you with how they play out.

Now to the battery life, which is somewhat limited, but still sufficient for most of your needs. With up to 21 hours on a single charge, you can listen to music or podcasts all day long. Brighten up a short trip or a beach stay with these earbuds. The charging case is compact and will easily fit into your palm.

In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy wireless set surprises you with sound quality – and looks amazing in your ears. Consider getting these earbuds for yourself – or as a gift.

Samsung Galaxy Buds Live Wireless Earphones in the use

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B08C5HYHYB

 

Infographics

Comparison of Wireless Headphones

What Are Wireless Headphones?

In our digital world, music is an integral part of the person’s life. Various gadgets and mobile devices are widespread. Nowadays, no one is surprised to see the person who listens to music with the best wireless headphones. The cutting-edge technologies have introduced wireless headphones with the top sound quality. And the perfect sound has proved to be not inferior to the wired ones. No wires are required to let you listen to your favourite tracks or watch movies. The built-in microphone and Bluetooth technology also give you an opportunity to answer the phone calls.

If you prefer using other headphone types, for example, gaming headsets, hands-free sets, wireless or cabled earbuds, we recommend checking out our reviews, in which we examined the best models of gaming headsets and Bluetooth headsets.

What Features to Compare

Type

For this article, we've taken the best wireless headphones available on Amazon, according to user feedback, and compared them side by side so you can see their strengths and decide which one is best suited for your needs.

The first thing to consider when selecting a set of headphones is the type. In general, all models can be split into the two groups:

  • full-size (mainly appropriate for home use);
  • compact vacuum (designed for active leisure).

To elaborate, open-back, full-size wireless headphones are a good option for amateurs who are sensitive to the slightest sound waves. The only catch is that while listening to music, you'll likely be heard by people surronding you as they are not sound-proof. Closed-back, full-size type headphones address this issue, plus, they ensure top-notch sounding in any environment with prominent highs and bass.

Another thing to consider is wireless technology. Basically, it gives you an idea of how the headphones can be used. For example, radio frequency systems are good for home use. They come in a set of headphones and a docking station and can be connected either to your Hi-Fi Audio or TV-set. Bluetooth-compatible devices, in turn, require no wired connection, making them a great pick for use on the go.

Sound Quality

The sound quality of headphones is the most important criterion to consider when choosing the device. Surely, the best way to check the sound is through testing different models, but you can also rely on the following information:

  • frequency range (the person perceives the sounds in the frequency 15-20 Hz and up to 18-22 kHz; the ideal headphones should include the mentioned range from 15 Hz up to 22 kHz);
  • the sensitivity defines the top loudness level (the maximum threshold of hearing is 130 dB; it is not recommended to listen to music at the maximum volume, so as not to damage your hearing);
  • the noise damping (if there’s a good noise damping, the side tones won’t be audible).

Design Options

Once you've learned what makes good heaphones in terms of sound, it's time to consider design design options. Pay attention to the material the headphones and wireless earphones are made from. Poorly made headphones won't serve you long. But worse than that, they won't fit you well and hence, won't be convenient in use.

Battery Life is especially important when talking about the wireless headphones. The battery life determines how long you can listen to music. The charge indicator will tell you exactly when it's time to recharge the battery.

FAQ:

Q: What is noise cancellation technology?

A: Noise cancellation or noise cancellation technology is a method for reducing the ambient sound through the use of active control. Thanks to this particular technology, now it's become possible to listen to music, manage phone calls, etc in crowded places without raising the volume level. Noise-cancelling headphones can also serve as a sleeping aid for people sensitive to all outside noises and for those who suffer from insomnia.

Q: What is the difference between active noise cancellation and passive noise isolation?

A: Active noise cancellation technology is specially designed to reduce the low-frequency sound waves by creating anti-noise to cancel ambient noise leaking in the headset, whereas passive noise isolation is present in all headphones and achieved by rubber tips or padding of the earcaps.

Q: What is an operating range?

A: When it comes to any wireless headphones, what matters is the operating range. The operating range is a maximum possible distance from a connected device within which the headphones will operate.

Q: Do headphones made from different materials sound different?

A: Of course, the material is an important part of the sound quality of headphones. Naturally, headphones made of plastic contain cheaper components, and, as a result, produce thinner sound close to artificial. Headphones containing metal bits are not only more durable than plastic models. The sound they produce is also much crispier and less distorted. Wooden headphones, in turn, have their own advantages. Compared to the other two, they produce very natural, warm and rich sound with harmonious vibrations. However, not all people can afford to buy them, as most of wooden headphones are just too expensive.

Q: What are the benefits of wireless headphones?

A: The biggest benefit to using wireless headphones is the convenience they provide. You have no disturbing wires that may get in the way nor do you need to keep a grip on your smartphone or mp3 player, doing which is neither convenient nor always possible. Wireless headphones can operate within a big range from a connected device giving you more flexibility and freedom of movement.

Q: What are the disadvantages of wireless headphones?

A: Wireless headphones are more expensive than wired models. Also, they are dependent on a charging source. Be ready to recharge them every now and then or keep a few spare rechargeable batteries at hand. However, the biggest issue associated with wireless headphones is that they do not support all media devices.

Sources:

1. Headphones Buying Guide, Best Buy.

2. How to Choose Headphones, wikiHow.

3. Tara Tuckwiller Wireless Headphone Buying Guide, ConsumerSearch. November 29, 2016.

4. Whitson Gordon How to Choose the Perfect Pair of Headphones, LifeHacker. November 5, 2011.

5. Choosing the Right Wireless Headphones, eBay. March 3, 2016.

6. How to buy headphones in 2017, CNET.

7. Daniel Nissenbaum How to buy the best headphones, Which?

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Publish Date: 2017-11-30 19:38:07