Wireless and wired headphones: which is better, pros and cons

Many people have switched to a wireless headset and enjoy the freedom of action while listening to music. In the winter, the wires do not interfere with a scarf, you look modern with them. And someone conservatively uses wired headphones, patiently untangling them. But their thin cable can save the phone from hitting the floor, keeping it on the weight, and it helped a lot of people. But aside from this, wired and wireless headphones have their pros and cons, which we'll explore further.

To begin with the connectors - they are exactly the same in wired and wireless headsets. There are headphones with a Tip-C jack, USB, Jack (6.3), Micro-jack (2.5), Mini-jack (3.5) and Apple Lightning Connector (8 pin). In the case of wireless headphones, the connector for the charger is meant.

The difference between wireless and wired headphones

Wired models transmit sound waves through cables. Pros:

• They don't need to be charged.
• The original sound quality is virtually the same because there is no transcoding.
• Light weight.

Of course, distortion is inevitable, but it's minor. Although, most people don't notice the difference with wireless headphones. Cons:

• The inconvenience is that you can only put your smartphone away from the wire, you have to carry it behind you.
• Wires get frayed, the head or plug of the earpiece comes off.

Wireless headphone technology transcodes sound into signals and sends them to the headphones «through the air.« Pros:

• You can listen to music while your smartphone is on charge.
• You don't have to constantly untangle the wires.
• You can exercise or move freely around the room instead of dragging your smartphone around.

Cons:

• Possible signal interruptions.
• Need for recharging.
• The price is higher than wired models and the weight is greater.

Most often 3 wireless technologies are used:

• Bluetooth - short transmission range, faster battery drain, signal quality from good to low, possible interruptions. More often used for smartphones and laptops. This technology is actively being developed, so the quality is improving.
• Radio channel 24 GHz - used to transmit sound from the TV, game console, computer. The range is large - 100 m, the sound quality is excellent, the broadcasting is stable.
• IR sensor - the quality of sound and music is better than in the previous systems, without delays. Minus - high cost of technology, you need to be within sight of the sound transmitter.

Which headphones are safer: wired or wireless?

While there is no official data on the dangers of wireless technology. But it is proved that Bluetooth headphones do not emit electromagnetic waves as strongly as the smartphone itself. Tests have been conducted in laboratories on Bluetooth headsets. They found that its radiation is several times weaker than that of a cell phone. And we keep it near our heads for hours.

But uncontrolled use of any headphones can damage your hearing purely mechanically. Much depends on the quality of the headset, the volume and the type of music. Hearing disorders and headaches can occur if you use wired or wireless headphones for too long and too often. It is important to choose high-quality original models, because cheap fakes don't meet the safety standards of the headset for health.

What type of headphones is better, depends on personal preferences. If you need to play sports, work around the house and listen to music or lectures, you definitely can't do without a Bluetooth headset. Wired models create a special comfort, they are good to ride in the car as a passenger and look thoughtfully out the window or take a leisurely stroll. They are preferred by audiophiles who are sensitive to sound quality.