In the past, the difference between wired and wireless headphones was very easily noticeable, and no doubt, wired headphones were much better. However, with constant technology improvement, the audio difference became so little and hard to notice, that it’s impossible to tell which of those offer better quality now. This debate is ongoing for years, and it might not end anytime soon. 

If you’re taking care of your devices, the headphones will easily serve you for years. That’s why it’s good to think twice before purchasing a pair. If you’re sitting on the fence, and have no idea which one you should invest in, there is some good news for you. It all comes down to your lifestyle, and how you’re going to use them. 

Both of them have their advantages and cons. Here you’ll find out what they are, and hopefully, it’ll help you make a conscious decision so that you can finally enjoy your favorite music in excellent quality!

Sound quality

When it comes to audio quality, wired headphones are better. But it's just in theory. Both types of headphones are so advanced that it’s impossible to tell the difference, as most digital audio files are only 256 kbps. Bluetooth headphones can support files or even 768 kbps, while wired types up to 2304 kbps. Because of that, the difference is almost non-existent, and Bluetooth headphones sound quality is just as good as wired models.

However, even though the best wireless headphones provide you with convenient no-wire experience, you might experience interference. If more devices generate a wireless signal that matches the frequency of the signal of your headphones, then the sound quality will be degraded. It’s easy to avoid, though, because the only thing you need is to keep the smart device nearby. 

There’s one more thing to consider. Manufacturers usually project and design headphones with different equalization levels. It means that various beats are equalized differently - so they will sound a bit different on wired and wireless headphones. Some headphones let you make manual adjustments based on the beats that you’re listening to. All in all, the sound quality is slightly different, and if you’re not listening to music on vinyl, there is a slim chance that you can feel any difference at all.

Price

Price ranges of headphones are very wide, it can be anywhere between 1$ to $5000, depending on the model. In general, when it comes to wireless vs wired headphones, the first type is cheaper. The best Bluetooth headphones under 50 dollars are not hard to find. If you’re planning to get a good wired model, you have to prepare for more expenses.

Battery Life

Wired headphones don’t need any power supply. However, there are noise-canceling models, and their battery usually lasts for 20-30 hours. But most models you can plug into the device, and use them, without any worries about the battery.

To use wireless headphones, you have to have a power source. And it is their biggest con according to many users. Most wireless models come with a rechargeable battery and micro USB cable. It takes around 3 hours to charge them fully.

Compatibility 

Both headphone types are compatible with many devices. Most wired headphones work with devices with 3,5mm jack. The only thing you need is to connect the end of the cable with your headphones, and you’re ready to go. However, some headphones might not be compatible with your device so remember to always make absolutely sure that your device is compatible - that will save you a lot of trouble in the future. 

If your device enables Bluetooth connection, then you’re ready to go. Even though a lot of wireless headphones are compatible with the newest versions of Bluetooth, you can also connect them with old devices that use earlier versions.

Portability

Contrary to popular belief, wired headphones are portable. You’ll easily fit them inside a backpack, and they will deliver you the best experience everywhere you need. However, the cons of this type of headphones are cords. They are often problematic because if you don’t wrap them up, you’ll likely find them tangled.

If you plan to work out using headphones, wireless headphones might be a better idea for you. They don’t have any cables that might disturb you during your training. If you’re active and you need headphones outside probably, the wireless version works better for you. 

All in all, both wired and wireless headphones provide you with good quality music. When it comes down to purchase - it’s all up to you. There’s no point in discussing which type of headphones is better because eventually it only comes down to one thing - how you are going to use them.