Headphones, one of the devices that music lovers never leave home without. Whether it’s to listen to some soothing music on the couch ormotivational tunes during
a workout, many of us prefer to listen using a headset. Which brings us to Bluetooth headphones. In this article, we’re going to discuss some factors to consider when deciding whether or not to buy a set of Bluetooth headphones.
PROS
Convenience
The most convincing pitch for Bluetooth headsets is that they are wireless. There’s no nuisance of having to untangle wires and everything can be adjusted from the headset (power, volume, changing songs). This is especially useful when you’re working out in the gym or doing morning walks.
Versatility
Another notable benefit is that Bluetooth headsets are non-exclusive so they can connect to any device as long as it has Bluetooth. With a wired headset, if the headset jack doesn’t match the port of the device, you’re out of luck. Furthermore, with phone and computer companies beginning to manufacture devices without the traditional 3.5mm headset ports, it’s only a matter of time before your regular wired headset becomes obsolete.
CONS
Extra Cost
With convenience comes extra expense but the question is, how much more are you willing to pay? Bluetooth headsets generally cost anywhere between EC$50 – $120 more than their wired counterparts. Yet, despite the significantly higher cost, many still deem the audio output of wired headphones as on par or superior to that of their Bluetooth counterparts. So, is solely the convenience of Bluetooth headphones really worth the added cost?
Battery Life
It’s ironic how Bluetooth headphones are all about convenience yet it has one notably inconvenient feature…batteries. Despite the improving battery life of newer models of Bluetooth headphones (e.g. the Sony WH-1000XM2 and Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2), you still have to charge them eventually. Plus there are many situations where you won’t be able to charge it if it dies e.g. on an airplane, in the car or on the beach. I don’t know about you, but if I’m listening to my favourite playlist, the last thing I’d want is to have to pause it and put my headset to charge for an hour or two.
In the end, whether wired or wireless, you should choose a headset that suits your lifestyle. If you’re tired of untangling wires and convenience is your motto, a Bluetooth headset is the right way to go.
