Wireless headphones, the criteria for choosing the right one

With the launch of the AirPods in 2016, Apple created a new and unprecedented product that did not fail to react. Some did not hesitate to spend nearly 180 euros to be the first to take advantage of the first truly wireless stereo headphones or TWS (True Wireless Stereo). Others remained dubious or scoffed, with the certainty that a headset would be lost in less than five minutes… The global market for truly wireless headphones is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20 , 3% over the next five years. More and more users prefer to do without wire, which has allowed some smartphone manufacturers to remove the jack plug from their devices.

Wireless headphones are a true concentrate of technologies and the choice is not only about the quality of the sound. They work over Bluetooth, so it’s important to have a recent version for the best performance. However, it is crucial to check the supported codecs. The universal codec in bluetooth is the SBC, but the latter suffers from high latency and relatively low throughput. Other codecs have been developed to compensate for these problems. For iPhone users, the AAC offers an alternative with lower latency and better sound fidelity, while for Android users there are other options like the Apt-X or LDAC. .

Noise reduction to isolate yourself in your bubble

A highlight for many models of wireless headphones is the noise reduction. Rather than just using thick materials like with traditional passive noise reduction, many headphones can cut or filter out ambient sound. This software-based noise reduction, based on algorithms, is divided into different categories like Active Noise Control (ANC), Ambient Noise Reduction (ENC), or Clear Speech Capture (CVC). To do this, they integrate microphones in order to analyze the sound environment, then produce a reverse sound wave, which cancels out the noise. This technology offers a more immersive musical experience as well as an irreproachable call quality even in noisy environments.

The wireless headphones can be used in Mono mode, where each of the headphones works independently. The main benefit is to reduce latency, as the signal is sent directly to each ear with no delay caused by processing. Autonomy is also very important. Each earphone must integrate its own battery which will need to be recharged after a few hours. Charging is carried out wirelessly, by placing them in their case. This contains its own battery so you can charge them anywhere. Combined with an advanced SoC, TWS headphones are able to reduce latency to just 60 milliseconds. This reduces the audio-video lag to zero for mobile games, video calls, and social media streaming.

Accessible headphones

Wireless headphones are often very expensive, but one of the best low-cost alternatives to AirPods are the new UGREEN HiTune T2 available at just € 44.99. With their low latency of 60 milliseconds, they are well suited for video content and games. In addition, they offer a “gaming” mode for the high definition sound in 3D, optimized to more easily locate certain in-game sounds such as shots or footsteps. Thanks to the dynamic 14.2-millimeter transducer, they deliver good bass reproduction, and an ultralight diaphragm ensures precise treble. If you want to test them, Futura has received a dedicated discount code to get 20% off HiTune T2 earphones, you just need to enter the promo code HITUNET2R1!

The HiTune T2 incorporates four microphones for active noise reduction for excellent call clarity. These headphones are compatible with Bluetooth 5.0 and have a battery life of 20 hours with the charging case.

Article produced in partnership with UGREEN.