Nothing beats the freedom of gaming using wireless headphones, but have you ever stopped to think about how they work? If you own high-quality wireless headphones for gaming, chances are you’ve heard of Bluetooth. In fact, even if you don’t own a pair of wireless headphones, Bluetooth is a widely familiar technology.
Today, it’s a wireless audio standard used to connect one device to another, without the use of wires or cables. It sounds like witchcraft, but really, it’s quite simple. So, how do wireless headphones work?
So, How Do Wireless Headphones Work?
Wireless headphones work by connecting (pairing) two devices through either infrared or radio signals (2.4GHz frequency). Bluetooth technology, in particular, is great since it allows you to connect multiple devices concurrently. Today, it’s a communications technology found in millions of devices we use every single day.
The thing is, Bluetooth only enables you to communicate over short distances of around 10- to 100-meters depending on the class. For instance, the most common class is Class 2 Bluetooth which has a power rating of 2,5 milliwatts and an operating range of around 10 meters. Though truthfully, you won’t find yourself that far away from your smartphone on your daily commute.
How to Connect Wireless Headphones
Pairing wireless headphones with your Android and Apple device is a very straightforward process. Sure, you can’t just plug-and-play like you can with wired headphones. But once your smartphone recognizes your wireless headphones, they will pair automatically when in range. Below, we have included a simple step-by-step guide on how to connect wireless headphones to an iPhone and Android device.
Connect Wireless Headphones on Android
- Turn on the wireless headphones
- Navigate to Settings
- Tap Connected devices
- Click on Pair new device
- Tap on the name of the wireless headphones under Available Devices
Connect Wireless Headphones to an iPhone
- Turn on the wireless headphones
- Navigate to Settings
- Tap Bluetooth and switch it on
- Click on the wireless headphones under Other Devices
Are Wireless Headphones Dangerous?
Despite what some folks in tin foil hats may think, you’re not going to die from using wireless headphones any time soon. Bluetooth technology operates in the same 2.4GHz band as Wi-Fi, microwaves and car alarms—so wireless headphones should be the least of your concerns.
Actually, most devices use radio frequencies that aren’t considered dangerous for us humans. If you’re still concerned, you may like our convenient guide to some of the best wired gaming headsets on the market.
What Is the Difference Between Wireless and Bluetooth Headphones?
Today, Bluetooth and wireless are both used interchangeably, but are there any differences between the two? As mentioned, Bluetooth is used to connect multiple devices within a short range using radio waves. On the contrary, wireless headphones transmit audio signals via radio waves or infrared.
In terms of headphones, both types are technically wireless. Albeit, Bluetooth devices communicate over a short distance. While a pair wireless of headphones can receive a signal from a long distance of around 100 ft.
Wired vs Wireless Headphones: Which Is Better?
As 3.5mm headphone jacks are being killed off, the best way to listen to music on your smartphone is via wireless headphones. Sure, you could use a handy USB-C headphone adapter. But I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had to sacrifice listening to music to charge my phone.
What’s more, Bluetooth is also supported in all modern mobile devices, as well as a range of other electronics such as televisions and laptops. But out of wired vs wireless, which is the best?
Battery Life
One thing you don’t have to worry about when it comes to wired headphones is battery life. Wireless headphones, on the other hand, are another story. Today, a decent pair of wireless headphones should last anywhere between 5- to 8-hours—some may even last an entire day. That’s plenty of time to listen to your favourite tunes and Joe Rogan podcasts, but for some, having to charge headphones may be off-putting.
Sound Quality and Latency
As you may have guessed, wired headphones often have superior audio quality compared to wireless headphones. The main issue you’ll face when it comes to wireless technology is interference. Depending on the distance from your wireless headphones and your device, you may experience noise interferences.
Albeit, this can simply be avoided by keeping your smartphone nearby. With all of that said, unless you’re an audiophile, you most likely won’t be able to tell the difference in audio quality.
Price
Generally speaking, wireless headphones cost more than their wired counterparts, though that’s starting to change. As a consequence, if you require a high-grade budget-friendly headset for gaming, wired ones tend to offer better audio quality at a budget-friendly price.
However, if you want to prioritize portability, wireless headphones may just be worth the extra cost. Personally, I find myself using Bluetooth earphones owing to how convenient they are, but that’s just me.
Conclusion
Wireless headphones are extremely convenient, but have you ever thought to yourself: how do wireless headphones work? As we have covered, Bluetooth technology works by pairing two devices using radio waves. Since smartphone companies are abandoning 3.5mm headphones jack, Bluetooth headphones are becoming increasingly popular.
Now, if you enjoy chatting with your friends as you play, we think you’ll enjoy our guide to the best wireless gaming headsets. This way, you won’t have to deal with annoying as you game.