38 models tested
Stiftung Warentest tests Bluetooth headphones: there is a good one for 32 euros
The JBL 510 BT does not even cost 35 euros
© JBL / Manufacturer
Whether for music, podcasts or for making phone calls: Bluetooth headphones are a daily companion for many people. Stiftung Warentest has now checked which ones are worthwhile.
When it comes to headphones, the demands are very different. Some people are looking for the smallest possible in-ear model that they can always have with them. Others prefer over-ear models because of the better sound. And still others want the best fit when doing sports. Stiftung Warentest has therefore selected the best models for every preference in the new test. And the particularly price-conscious are also considered.
For the test, all models tested since June 2021 have been divided into four categories: completely wireless in-ears, in-ear models that are connected with an intermediate cable, headband headphones that only rest on the ears and those that completely enclose the ears. Last but not least, there is a separate list that only includes the headphones that cost less than 65 euros. Because the lists were still too long, Warentest limited them even further in the end. In-ears without cables only make it onto the list with a grade of “good” (2.0) and better, which means Apple’s Airpods (3rd generation) are eliminated. All the “good” models are listed for the other headphone types, and the savings list also includes those that were still “satisfactory” in terms of the overall rating and the sound.
Good sound is expensive
If it’s all about the sound, you have to dig deep into your pocket: Apple’s Airpods Max have the best sound in the entire test field and accordingly end up at the top of the ranking with an overall rating of “good” (1.9). Despite the mediocre rating for wearing comfort and battery life (almost 22.5 hours). But the top grade has its price: almost two years after the headband headphones were introduced, they are rarely found for less than 400 euros. This makes them the most expensive headphones on the current product test list.
The competition shows that things can be done differently. Although no model achieves the top sound of the Airpods Max, 26 models create a good sound. Often at significantly lower prices. Even with the price-performance tips, the best ones usually do well when it comes to sound. Below you will find the models with the best value for money.
Savings models: These headphones are really worth it
Land with the in-ear headphones without cables JVC with the HA-A11T at the top of the savings list. With a price starting at 46 euros, they are not only very cheap, they can also convince with the sound or the battery life of seven hours. The testers only found the comfort and handling mediocre. However, the overall rating of “good” (2.2) is impressive given the price.
Even with the models that are connected by a cable, the sound is convincing despite the low price. the Teufel Airy Sports also score points with a battery life of 17.5 hours, which is very long for in-ears. Here, too, the wearing comfort can be improved. The overall grade “good” (2.2) and the price of just under 60 euros are definitely an attractive combination.
The price tip for the over-the-ear headphones is even cheaper. the JBL Tune 510BT costs just 32 euros. They get the overall grade “good” (2.4) because of the very comfortable fit and the strong runtime of over 41 hours. Unfortunately, the sound is only okay. Still, given the price, the device is a bargain.
According to the product test, if you prefer a pair of headphones with a headband, you have little choice as a saver. Only the Philips TAH5205BK meets both the quality and price criteria for the savings list. And that’s exactly how it is: With an overall rating of 2.5, it is only a hair’s breadth among the “good” models. Sound and fit are mediocre, but the battery life is good at 35 hours. But the headband headphones are also available for less than 40 euros.
You can find the full test for a fee at test.de
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